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    Unmask Me

    Uploaded by

    amazamadikizela2006
    The narrator, a 17-year-old girl named Nokwanda Ndlovu, has no memories from before age 15 and wears a mask at all times per her parents' instructions. She attends her first day of registration at Wits University with her driver Bab'zond. On the ride there, she falls asleep and dreams again of an old lady who says she will help Nokwanda remember. Nokwanda's parents seem uneasy when she mentions this dream.

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd

    Unmask Me

    Uploaded by

    amazamadikizela2006
    1K views1,297 pages
    The narrator, a 17-year-old girl named Nokwanda Ndlovu, has no memories from before age 15 and wears a mask at all times per her parents' instructions. She attends her first day of registration at Wits University with her driver Bab'zond. On the ride there, she falls asleep and dreams again of an old lady who says she will help Nokwanda remember. Nokwanda's parents seem uneasy when she mentions this dream.

    Original Title

    UNMASK ME

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    © © All Rights Reserved

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    The narrator, a 17-year-old girl named Nokwanda Ndlovu, has no memories from before age 15 and wears a mask at all times per her parents' instructions. She attends her first day of registration at Wits University with her driver Bab'zond. On the ride there, she falls asleep and dreams again of an old lady who says she will help Nokwanda remember. Nokwanda's parents seem uneasy when she mentions this dream.

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as pdf or txt
    1K views1,297 pages

    Unmask Me

    Uploaded by

    amazamadikizela2006
    The narrator, a 17-year-old girl named Nokwanda Ndlovu, has no memories from before age 15 and wears a mask at all times per her parents' instructions. She attends her first day of registration at Wits University with her driver Bab'zond. On the ride there, she falls asleep and dreams again of an old lady who says she will help Nokwanda remember. Nokwanda's parents seem uneasy when she mentions this dream.

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as pdf or txt
    of 1297

    UNMASKME.

    ~i
    ntr
    oduct
    ion~

    "Youhavetoremember"t
    heol
    dladysays
    "Comeletmehelpyouremember"she
    comesclosertome,
    themomentshe
    t
    ouchesmyhandIwakeup.
    Aghnotagai nIsayt omy self,Iwonderwho
    shei sandwhati ti
    st hatIhav eto
    remember ,al
    ltheset houghtr uninmyhead
    asIt akeashower .
    .Idon'ttakebat hscause
    Imi ghtseemyr efl
    ectioninthewat er.Yeah
    I'
    m a17y earoldgirlwhodoesn' tknowhow
    shel ooksli
    ke,myr oom hasnomi rr
    or,
    nothingthatshines,not hi
    ngt hatIcoul dsee
    my selfonandnotj ustmyr oom, t
    heent ir
    e
    house,thespoonst hepot sev er
    ything
    doesn'tshineIdon' tevenhav eaphone.
    Imakemywaybackt omyr oom andlook
    forsomethingtowearandwearmycont act
    l
    ensesandof coursemyMASK. .
    .myparent s
    saidIshoul
    dwearcont actl
    ensessonoone
    seesmyr ealeyesforwhatreasons?Ialso
    don'tknowandaboutt hemask...
    ..
    *
    flashback2y
    ear
    sago*
    Mom: y
    ouhavetoweart
    hisf
    rom nowon
    andnevert
    akei
    tof
    f
    Me:Why?andwhycan'
    tIr
    emember
    any
    thi
    ngaboutmyli
    fe?
    Mom: somet
    hingt
    err
    ibl
    ehappenedtoyou
    dearanddamagedyourmemor yandal
    so
    yourface
    Dad:andit
    'sbestyoual
    sodon'tseeyour
    face,
    we'r
    eonlylooki
    ngoutf
    ory ou,wedon'
    t
    wantpeoplemakingfunofyourpain
    Me:
    butIdon'
    tfeel
    anypai
    n
    Dad:youwil
    l oncetheyseey ourf
    ace.So
    promiseust hatyou'
    llneverl
    ookatyour
    faceevenify ouaretemptedandthatyou'
    l
    l
    nevertakethemaskof f
    Me:
    IPROMI
    SE
    *
    endoff
    lashback*
    Youknowwhat'
    sfunny?I
    tthefactthatmy
    facei
    ssosmoothyetsomethi
    ng"terri
    ble"
    happenedt
    oit
    .

    Any wayIam...
    uhm Idon'tknowwhatt ocal
    l
    mysel f
    ,t
    heladyinmydr eamssay smy
    namei sMbalenhlebutfrom whatIwast ol
    d
    2y ear
    sagoi sthatI'
    m NokwandaNdl ovu
    daughterofVuy i
    swaandSbongi sen
    Ndlovu..
    agir
    l whodoesn'tonlynotknowher
    facebutherentirechi
    ldhood.

    Pleasej
    oinmeint
    hisj
    ourneyofmi
    neas
    unknownthi
    ngsar
    ereveal
    ed.

    ~i
    nser
    t1~
    Imakemywayt otheli
    vi
    ngr oom,If
    indmy
    par
    entsal
    readyhavi
    ngbreakfast
    .
    Mom:
    mor
    ningbaby
    Me:
    morni
    ng*
    IsayasIsi
    tandt
    akeof
    fmy
    mask*
    Dad:
    didy
    ousl
    eepwel
    l
    ?
    Me:
    ki
    nda
    Dad:
    meani
    ng?OhWit
    sacceptedyouso
    t
    odayyou'
    l
    lhav
    etogother
    eforregi
    str
    ati
    on.
    Iquickl
    ylookeduptomydadandsmi l
    ewel
    l
    theyarelat
    ebutI'm gl
    adthey'
    vefinal
    ly
    answered,I'
    vebeenhomeschool edever
    sinceIl
    ostmymemor yandIalway s
    wonderhowi tsl
    ikebeingincl
    asswi t
    h
    otherki
    ds,itl
    ooksli
    keI'l
    lfi
    ndoutsoon.
    Mom:
    butdon'
    tyout
    hinkt
    hat
    'sdang.
    ..
    .
    Dad:honeywehav etotrustherpl
    usher
    dr
    iverwi l
    lalwaysbewi t
    hhert omakesure
    noonet akesof fhermaskandweknowshe
    wouldn'ttakeitoffbyhersel
    fcauseshe
    pr
    omi sed.
    Me:
    bab'
    zondi
    wil
    lal
    way
    sbewi
    thme?
    Dad:
    yeahhei
    snowy
    ourbody
    guar
    d.
    I'
    m notevengonnacompl ai
    nI'
    mjustglad
    thatIgettofur
    thermyst udi
    esandbea
    Lawy erwi
    thnof ace.
    .nononoamy st
    erious
    Lawy erwuuuhnowt hat'
    scatchy.
    Mom:
    didy
    ouhav
    eabaddr
    eam?
    Ilookedatherconf
    useduhm i
    sshet
    alki
    ng
    tome?
    Mom:yourdadaskedi
    fyousl
    eptwel
    land
    yousai
    dkinda
    Ohhhh
    Me:
    ohIdr
    eamtaboutt
    heol
    dladyagai
    n.
    Theybothlookedateachot
    herwi
    tht
    hei
    r
    eyespoppedout.
    Mom: di
    dshesayany
    thi
    ng(
    shel
    ooks
    uneasy)
    Me:yeahthatshewill
    helpmer emember,
    doyouguy sperhapsthi
    nkthatby
    "r
    emember "shemeantmychi ldhoodand
    ever
    ythi
    ngt hatI
    '
    veforgot
    ten?
    Mom chockedonhersal
    iv
    aandkept
    coughi
    ngwhil
    edadrubbedherbackwi
    tha
    ter
    ri
    fi
    edlookonhi
    sface
    Oookysomet
    hing'
    supl
    a(her
    e)
    Me:
    mom ar
    eyouok?
    Mom:
    yeahy
    eahIj
    usthav
    etogo
    somewhereyourdadwill
    gowi
    thy
    out
    o
    Wit
    sforyourregi
    str
    ati
    on.
    Shesai
    dthatt
    aki
    ngherbag,
    hercarkey
    s
    andwal
    kedout.
    Dad:uhm Ithinkyourmom f orgotthatI
    haveanur gentmeet ingtoatt
    endt oso
    you'
    llhavetogowi thbab'
    zondi andher
    e
    usethiscardf oryourregi
    str
    ation(he
    handedmet hecar dandstoodup)and
    don'
    tf or
    gettha...
    Icuttedhi
    m of f
    Me:don'tworryitwon'
    tl
    eav
    emyfaceI
    pr
    omi se.*
    lookingatmymask*
    Dad:
    good,
    hav
    eagr
    eatday
    Me:
    thanksy
    out
    oo*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Hewalkedout.
    ..
    Ifi
    nishedeatingand
    cl
    ear
    edupt hetabl
    et hentookthedi
    shes
    andpl
    acedthem inthedishwasher.
    Ipraythatnoonet riest
    ot akeoffmymask
    todayIreall
    ydon'twannabemocked.I
    wenttomyr oom,tookoutmybackpackand
    placedinmydocument sandmywal letthen
    wentbackt otheki t
    chenandt ookouta
    blackwaterbottl
    ef rom t
    hef r
    idge,
    dranki t
    thenswitchedoffthedishwasherandwor e
    mymask, It
    henmakemywayoutl okcibg
    thedoor.
    Bab'
    zondi
    :mor
    ningmi
    ss
    Me:bab'
    zondi
    Ial
    way
    stel
    lyout
    ocal
    lme
    Nokwanda
    Hi
    m:andIal
    way
    sfor
    get*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Ij
    ustshookmyheadget
    tinginatt
    heback
    oft
    hecarandbab'
    zondi
    st ar
    tst
    heigni
    ti
    on.

    Thensuddenl
    yIf
    eel
    myey
    esget
    ti
    ng
    heav
    ierei
    Me:bab'
    zondi
    pleasewakemeupwhenwe
    gettoWits
    Hi
    m:OK.
    Iclosemyeyesandmybodyr elaxes,outof
    nowheretheoldladyappearswalking
    towardmeandIl ookatmysur roundings
    wear einaverywhiteroom i
    fiti
    sa
    room...
    asshegetscloserandclosertome
    theroom get
    sdar kandIcannol ongersee
    her.

    ~ Somewher
    e ~
    Lady1:
    Ahhhhht
    hey'
    vebl
    ockedmeagai
    n
    (shesaysi
    nanger
    )
    Lady2:
    howdotheyalway
    sknowyou'
    re
    connect
    ingwi
    thherandwhoar
    ethey
    ?( She
    asksi
    nfr
    ust
    rat
    ion)
    Lady1:
    mbalenhl
    emustbetell
    i
    ngthem
    aboutherdr
    eamsnotknowingitabad
    thi
    ngtodo
    Lady2:
    *si
    ghs*t
    hennextt
    imey ouconnect
    wit
    hhertell
    hernott
    otel
    lthem
    Lady1:
    sincet
    hey
    'veblockedmeIhav
    etogo
    backtothemountai
    ns
    Lady2:butlastt
    imeyouwentt hereyou
    we'r
    egonef or5months( f
    eeli
    ngdefeat
    ed)
    youknowwhat ?gotothemount ai
    nsandat
    themeant imeI'l
    lmakef l
    yersandhave
    them postedinallpr
    ovinces.
    Lady1gi
    vesinanodandpr
    epar
    eher
    sel
    ffor
    themountai
    ns.
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t2~
    °
    Nokwanda°
    "
    Nokwanda"
    -voi
    ce
    Me:
    mmh
    Voi
    ce:
    wakeupwe'
    vear
    ri
    ved
    Isl
    owl
    yopenedmyey
    es,
    ohwe'
    real
    readyi
    n
    Wit
    s
    Bab'
    zondi
    :di
    dyousl
    eepatni
    ght
    ?yourbody
    l
    ooksti
    red
    Me:
    yeahIsl
    ept(
    str
    etchi
    ngmy
    sel
    f)
    Hi
    m:buti
    tdoesn'
    tseem l
    ikeyoudi
    d,come
    l
    et'
    sgoinsoIcantakeyoubackhomeand
    r
    est
    Me:
    doy
    our
    eal
    l
    yhav
    etogoi
    nwi
    thme?
    Hi
    m:onl
    yfort
    oday
    Me:
    ohk.
    Wegotoutoft hecarandmakeourway
    i
    nsidethecampusy ohhsomanyst udent s
    andtheyatealr
    eadylooki
    ngatmewei rdl
    y
    butI'
    m usedtoweir
    dlystares,
    wewal kto
    theregi
    str
    ati
    onhallandIfeell
    ikeli
    feis
    drawnoutofmybodyahht helinei
    ssol ong.
    Bab'
    zondi
    :ai
    I'
    ll
    wai
    tfory
    ououther
    e
    Igoinandjointheli
    neatleasttherear
    e
    chai
    rs,
    eveninher et
    heyar elookingatme
    meweirdlyaghnowwhatwi llIdoIhaveno
    phoneandIleftmywi r
    elessheadsetsat
    home,t
    hisisgoingtobeal ongday .
    "Hey"Il
    ooknexttomewher eseat
    eda
    beauti
    fuldarkgi
    rlwit
    hanicel
    ycombedafr
    o
    alsowithsmalleyeswhi
    chmakeshereven
    mor ebeauti
    ful
    .
    Me:
    howar
    eyou?
    Her
    :I
    'm andy
    our
    sel
    f?
    Me:
    I'
    m al
    sogood
    Her
    :whyar
    ey ouweari
    ngamask* she
    qui
    ckl
    ycover
    shermout hasi
    fshedidn'
    t
    meantobl
    urtoutwhatsheasked*
    Me:
    uhm per
    sonal
    reasons
    Her
    :ohokI
    '
    m Amahl
    e
    Me:
    nicet
    omeety
    ou,
    I'
    m Nokwanda
    Her:
    nicetomeetyoutoo(shesmil
    e,making
    mesmi lebackaghshecan'
    tseemewi th
    myprobablystupi
    dsmil
    e)yourdr
    eadlocks
    ar
    ebeaut i
    ful
    Me:
    andy
    ouraf
    rosui
    tsy
    ou
    Her
    :t
    hanks*
    blushi
    ng*
    Wetal
    kedast
    helinekeptmovi
    ng,
    turnsout
    wearebot
    hfr
    esherswhowil
    lbedoingLaw.
    Shef ini
    shesherregistr
    ati
    onfir
    standsay s
    she'll
    waitformeout side,myregistr
    at i
    onis
    takingwayt olongast herear
    esomedel ays
    ofcour setherewasgoi ngtobesome
    delaysI'm meanev enmyf aceinmyI Dhas
    amasksot heyat
    et ry
    ingtoconfirmi fit
    's
    notascam, Iwonderifmypar entbribed
    homeaf f
    airstoal
    lowmet akeapi ct
    ur ewith
    themaskon.
    ~
    Fi
    nal
    l
    yI'
    m done,
    I
    'm sohungr
    y
    Amahl
    e:whatt
    ooky
    ousol
    ong?
    Me:
    eht
    her
    ewer
    esomedel
    ays
    Her
    :I
    'm hungr
    ylet
    'scat
    chat
    axitoJo'burg
    Mal
    landgettoknoweachotheroverlunch
    Me:uhm Icanonl
    ygot
    her
    etobuyl
    unch
    andeatathome
    Her
    :why
    ?
    Me:
    Ican'
    teati
    npubl
    i
    c
    Her
    :why
    ?
    Me:
    causei
    trequi
    resmet
    otakeof
    fmy
    mask
    Her:
    errokt
    henwe'
    l
    lfi
    ndsomepr
    ivat
    e
    pl
    aceande.
    .
    Me:No,noonei
    ssupposeseemyf
    aceno
    onenotevenme
    Her
    :*shocked*What
    ?Why
    ?
    Me:
    per
    sonal
    reasons
    Bab'
    zondi
    :ohy
    ou'
    ref
    inal
    l
    ydone
    Me:y
    eaherrmayyoupl
    easet
    akeust
    o
    Jo'
    burgMall
    tobuyl
    unch
    Hi
    m:sur
    elet
    'sgo
    Me:
    ohf
    ir
    stl
    ythi
    sisAmahl
    e,Amahl
    ethi
    sis
    bab'
    zondi
    Amahl
    e:ni
    cet
    omeety
    oubaba
    Hi
    m:l
    i
    kewi
    sey
    oungl
    ady
    Bab' zondil
    ooksli
    keheisinhismid40she
    ain'tthatol
    dbuthe'soldenoughtobemy
    father..
    ..
    anywaywewentt othemalland
    boughtl unchaft
    erthatwedroppedoff
    Amahl eatherhome
    Her:
    seey
    oui
    n2weeks(
    smi
    l
    esandwal
    k
    away)
    It
    hinkImadeaf
    ri
    end

    °
    •3weeksl
    ater
    •°
    Latel
    yI'
    vebeengreatIst
    artedmycl asses
    thi
    sweek,theol
    dl adynolongershowsup
    i
    nmydr eamsI'm notsur
    ei ft
    hat'
    sgoodor
    bad.
    .
    Amahl
    e:don'
    tyougetsuf
    focat
    ed?
    Me:
    uhh?
    Her
    :themask,
    doesn'
    titsuf
    focat
    eyou?
    (
    Sheasksaswewal koutofourl
    astcl
    ass
    f
    ortheday)
    Me:
    noI.
    ..
    ouch(
    Isaybumpi
    ngy
    osomeone)
    i
    msosor
    ry
    Theskinnygirll
    ooksatmeannoy ed,
    ok
    she'snotthatski
    nnyshe'syourmodel i
    ng
    typeofgir
    l,she'
    swearingheels,hast
    hose
    l
    ongweav esonandey el
    ashest ooshe
    l
    ooksl i
    kethosegirl
    sinmagazi nesshe'
    s
    ki
    ndacut e
    Her
    :wat
    chwher
    eyou'
    regoi
    ngwei
    rdo
    OhIal
    readyhav
    eaname
    Amahl
    e:shesaidshe'
    ssor
    rydi
    dn'
    tshe?
    comeNokwal et
    'sgo

    Wemakeourwayoutcampusandwai
    tfor
    ourt
    ranspor
    ts
    Me:
    thanks
    Her:
    noneedt
    ot hankme*
    smi
    l
    ing*ohl
    ook
    someone'
    smissing
    Ifol
    lowhergazeohi
    t'
    saf
    lyerpost
    edont
    he
    pole
    Her:
    1mil
    li
    onrewar
    d*shocked*Wowand
    she'
    ssobeaut
    if
    ul
    Me:
    shei
    sindeed
    thegi
    rlinthefl
    yerhascaramel skinjustl
    i
    ke
    mine,
    roundsmal lf
    ace,onedimpl ewitha
    beaut
    ifulsmil
    e,
    whiteteet
    h's,
    pinkish
    l
    ips,l
    i
    ghtbrowney eswhi chspar
    klenonono
    theyusedfil
    tersi
    nthispi ct
    uret
    here'
    sno
    wayanor mal nat
    uralpersoncouldbethi
    s
    gorgeousandhedr eadlocksmakesher
    evenmor ebeauti
    ful.
    Amahl
    elooksatmet
    hent
    hef
    lyert
    henback
    atme
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Her:
    youhav esi
    mil
    arski
    ncol
    ourandsame
    dr
    eadlocks
    Me:yeahso? *
    confused*(y
    eahIhave
    car
    amel skinjustl
    ikesomeotherpeopl
    e
    anddreadlocks,soIdon'
    treal
    l
    ygether
    poi
    nt)
    Shel
    ooksatmewi
    thabor
    edf
    ace.
    ..
    .wai
    t.
    ..
    Me:nodudeser
    iousl
    y??t
    hegir
    llooks2or3
    year
    syoungert
    hanme, l
    ookathersmal
    l
    f
    aceandl
    ookatmymask.
    .woul
    ditf
    ither
    ?
    Shel
    ooksatt
    hef
    lyeragai
    n
    Her
    :pr
    obabl
    ynot
    Me:andmyf acel
    ookst
    err
    ibl
    e,somet
    hing
    badhappenedtoit
    Her:
    howwoul
    dyouknow?Causey
    ou'
    ve
    sawit
    Me:parent
    stoldmeandIhopey ouwon't
    usewhatIjusttol
    dyouagainstmecause
    I
    'mtrusti
    ngyouwithitasf
    ri
    end
    Shesmi
    l
    esatme
    Her:
    Iwon'
    t,
    Ipr
    omise.
    .ohmyt
    ranspor
    tis
    her
    ebye(wehug)
    Shel
    eav
    esandIwai
    tforbab'
    zondi
    "Ohwei
    rdogi
    rl
    "Ilookaheadandseet
    he
    ski
    nnygi
    rl
    ,Ir
    oll
    myey esasshecatwal
    k
    t
    owar
    dsme.
    °
    °
    °
    ~i
    nser
    t3~

    "
    Whatar
    ey ouhidi
    ngbehi
    ndt
    hatmask?
    y
    ourugl
    yface?"
    Ij
    ustl
    ookedatherandsai
    dnot
    hing
    "
    Ohy
    ou'
    vet
    urnedmut
    e"
    "Babe"IturnandseeWOW ImeanIt ur
    n
    andseeuhm wel lanol derver
    sionofthe
    gir
    lintheflyerjustt
    hatitisaguya
    handsomeguywi t
    hthickpinki
    shlipsaibo
    whyam Il ookingathislips
    "
    Ohheybabe,
    you'
    rel
    ate"say
    stheski
    nny
    gi
    rl
    Guy:
    sor
    rybabeIgotdel
    ayedal
    i
    ttl
    e*he
    say
    sgetti
    ngcl
    oser*
    Themor eandmor ehegetscloserhelooks
    famil
    iarnotjustbecausehelooksli
    kethe
    gir
    linthefly
    erIjustsaworisitbecauseof
    that
    ?andwhydoeshi sv oi
    cesounds
    famil
    iartoo?
    Guy
    :ist
    hisy
    ourf
    ri
    endbabe?
    Ohnoheisstandi
    nginfr
    ontofme,
    myhead
    i
    sspinni
    ng.
    .nowI'
    m sur
    eI'
    veseenhi
    m
    somewhere
    Gi
    rl
    y:
    Idon'
    tbef
    ri
    endwei
    rdpeopl
    e
    Guy:t
    hat'
    snotani cet
    hingtosay.
    ..
    himy
    nameisSiphosenkosidon'
    tmindwhatLebo
    j
    ustsaidok
    Myheadi
    sst
    il
    lspi
    nni
    ng,
    Iopenmymout
    hto
    speakbutnothi
    ngcomesoutcomeon
    wordsdon'
    tfail
    menow
    Si
    pho:
    arey
    ouok?
    It
    ouchmyheadt
    omi
    nimi
    zet
    hespi
    nni
    ng
    Me:yeahI'
    mf ine*IsayasIlookuptohim
    andhejustcloseshiseyesasifhe'
    staki
    ng
    i
    nwhatI'vejustsai
    duhm didIsaythatinan
    off
    ensi
    veway ?

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    '
    spov
    °

    Iclosemyey estaki
    nginherangelicvoi
    ce
    whichissosimil
    artombalenhle'
    s.Whois
    thi
    sgirlandwhydoesshehav embal i
    '
    s
    dreadl
    ocks,ski
    ncolourandvoi
    ce?andwhy
    i
    sshewear i
    ngagoddamnmask? ..Wait
    whatif.
    ..
    Iqui
    ckl
    yopenmyey
    es
    Me:
    mayIseey
    ourf
    ace?
    Her
    :nev
    er*
    shequi
    ckl
    yanswer
    s*
    Me:
    whynot
    ?
    Her
    :causeIdon'
    twantt
    o
    Me:
    ify
    oudon'tt
    akeoffthatmaskwi
    l
    li
    ngl
    y
    t
    henI'
    l
    ltakei
    tofff
    orcef
    ull
    y
    Lebo:
    whydoy
    ouwantt
    oseeh.
    .
    Me: t
    hul
    aangi
    khul
    um nawe(
    shutupI'
    m not
    tal
    ki
    ngtoyou)*
    I'
    m get
    ti
    ngallwor
    kedup
    now*
    Thegi
    rll
    ooksar
    oundasi
    fshewant
    stor
    un
    Me:donotevent
    hinkofr
    unni
    ng*
    Ipul
    la
    scaryf
    ace*
    Her:pl
    easedonott
    akeoffmymask(Il
    ook
    deepint
    oherpl
    eadi
    ngeyes.
    .not
    hisi
    sn'
    t
    mbal
    enhl
    e,mbalenhledoesn'thav
    enormal
    br
    owneyeshereyessparkleandlight
    ,I
    st
    umblebackf
    eelingli
    keaf ool
    Me:I
    '
    m sorryIdi
    dn'
    tmeantoscar
    e
    you.
    .Leboasambe(
    let
    'sgo)
    WewalktomycarandIdri
    veofft
    omy
    apar
    tment,noonesay
    sanyt
    hingt
    oany
    one
    ti
    l
    lwearri
    ve.
    I'
    m suchafoolyaz(y
    ouknow)whydi dI
    scareaninnocentgi
    rlIguessthesi
    mil
    ari
    ty
    betweenherandmbal enhlei
    sjusta
    coinci
    dence
    Lebo:Iknowy out
    alkedtomet hewayyou
    didbecausey out
    houghtthatweir
    dgir
    lwas
    yoursistersoIwon'tbemad
    Me: doyoul
    i
    stent
    oyour
    sel
    fwheny
    ou
    speak?
    Sher
    oll
    sherey
    esnx
    Her:
    babedon'
    tyout
    hinki
    tist
    imet
    oletgo
    now?
    Me:
    ofwhat
    ?you?
    *rai
    sedaney
    ebr
    ow*
    Her
    :NO!Imeannonotmey
    oursi
    ster
    Ij
    ustlookatherwi
    thadeadl
    yst
    are,
    i
    fey
    es
    coul
    dkillshewoul
    dbedeadbynow
    Her
    :it
    sbeen2y
    ear
    smay
    beshe'
    sdead
    Iquicklyst opmyhandt hatisaboutt ol and
    onherf aceasshecov ersit,
    nosheai n'
    t
    worthitIj ustgr abmycarkey sandwal kout
    whyam Iev enst i
    ll
    withher.Istartthe
    i
    gnitiontosomewher eIalsodon' tknow
    eishmyf eelingsarealloverthepl aceif
    that'
    sev enappr opri
    ateforaguyImi ssmy
    sist
    ersof reakingbadi feell
    ikeI'
    v efai
    led
    her,shemustbesoscar edandl onely
    whereshe'
    satbecauseI
    '
    m 100%sur
    eshe'
    s
    st
    il
    lali
    ve.

    Ohf orgiv
    emewher ear
    emymanner sI'
    m
    Siphosenkosi Mt
    hembusonofKi ngMusa
    andQueenNomusaoft heBant uKingdom,
    I'
    m 20y earsoldIhaveay oungersister
    Mbal enhlewhowillbet
    urning18t hisyear
    unfortunatel
    yshegotkidnapped2y ear
    s
    ago,thepol i
    cekeepssayingtheyar edoing
    allt
    heycannxxIshoul djustsuethem i t
    been2FREAKI NYEARS
    ~
    °
    Nokwandwa°

    Mom:honeyar
    eyousurey
    ouareok?You'
    ve
    beenqui
    etsi
    nceyoucamebackf
    rom
    school
    Me:
    I'
    mjustt
    ir
    ed
    Her
    :yousur
    e?
    Me:y
    eahuhm l
    etmegost
    udy*
    Ist
    oodup
    andwentt
    omyr oom*
    Ican'tt
    ellmypar entsthatsomeonealmost
    tookoffmymaskt odayorelsei
    twil
    lbeno
    mor eschoolforme, IjusthopeIwon'
    t
    crosspathswi t
    ht hathandsomewell-
    shapeddudeev eragain.Ist
    udyali
    ttl
    ebi
    t
    andgost rai
    ghtt obedaf t
    erthat
    .
    ~
    FŘĨ
    ĎĂŶ
    Myclassesendedearl
    ytodaybutI
    '
    m st
    il
    lat
    theschooll
    i
    braryf
    ini
    shi
    ngoffmy
    assi
    gnment
    "Iknewt hatIwouldfi
    ndy ouhere"Il
    ookup
    toAmahl eohshe'snotaloneshe'swith
    Nsikat hepopularcut
    eguywhoi sdoinghi
    s
    thir
    dy earinArchit
    ect
    ,Ifeell
    ikeI'
    m
    forgetti
    ngsomet hi
    ngohhei saPLAYER
    andaspoi l
    tbratwhothi
    nkst heworld
    revolv
    esar oundhim.
    Amahle:
    bbesthisisNsi
    kamy
    boy
    fri
    end,
    babethisismyfr
    iendNokwanda
    Whoabackupboy
    fri
    end?
    Amahl
    e:y
    eah
    Ohshi
    tdi
    dIaskt
    hatoutl
    oud
    Her
    :any
    wayNsi
    kahasi
    nvi
    tedust
    oapar
    ty
    t
    oni
    ght
    Me:
    us?
    Nsika:
    babeIhavetogomeetupwiththe
    gentsI
    'l
    lseeyoulat
    er*heki
    sseshercheek
    andl
    eav
    e*
    Amahl
    e:soar
    ewegoi
    ng?
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    whendi
    dyout
    wost
    artdat
    ing?
    Her
    :2day
    sago
    Me:whydi
    dn'
    tyout
    ell
    me?Andoutofal
    l
    guy
    sincampuswhyhim?
    Her:
    Idi
    dn'tgettheti
    met
    otel
    lyoupl
    usyou
    don'
    thaveaphonesoIcan'
    treachy
    ouand
    i
    tshim becauseIlov
    ehi
    m
    Me:j
    ustl
    i
    keev er
    ygi
    rlwhodat
    edhi
    m who
    ar
    eheart
    brokenaswespeak
    Her
    :hesay
    sI'
    m di
    ff
    erentandspeci
    al
    Me:
    probabl
    ywhathet
    oldt
    hepr
    evi
    ousgi
    rl
    Her
    :canwej
    ustdr
    opt
    his
    Whyi
    sshebei
    ngsonai
    ve
    Her
    :so?
    ?*r
    aisi
    ngherey
    ebr
    ow*
    Me:
    nooooo
    Her:
    comeon,Nsikaandhisf
    ri
    endssai
    dy ou
    don'
    thav
    et otakeof
    fyourmasksi
    ncethey
    knowyoulovehavi
    ngiton
    Me:noAmahl eI'
    m notgoing,I'
    veheard
    Nsikaandhi sfri
    endst al
    ki
    ngaboutt he
    weirdgir
    lwi t
    ha" bangingbody"soIdon't
    wantanyoft hem nearme* Ipackedmy
    t
    hingsandst oodup*whenNsi kabreaks
    yourheartjustknowt hatI'
    l
    lbetherefory
    ou
    I
    'l
    lbey ourshouldertocryon
    Iwalkoutl
    eavi
    ngherint
    her
    eandwal kout
    ofcampusI'
    m pret
    tysur
    ebab'
    zondi
    ison
    hi
    swaynow.
    "
    Hey
    "It
    urnohhel
    lno
    Sipho:
    pleasedon'
    tfreakoutI'
    m her
    eto
    apologi
    zef ormybehavioroft
    hatday
    Me:soy
    ouwon'
    tfor
    cef
    ull
    ytakeof
    fmy
    mask
    Hi
    m:no
    Me:
    okcool
    Ifor
    giv
    eyou(
    Ist
    artr
    elaxi
    ng)
    Him:mayIhavey
    ourphonenumber
    ?Iknow
    I
    'm bei
    ngfor
    wardbutmayI
    Me:
    uhm Idon'
    thav
    eaphone
    Him:owh*
    soundi
    ngdi
    sappoint
    ed*Iguess
    I
    'l
    lseeyouMondayaf
    teryourcl
    asses
    Me:
    wai
    twhat
    ?*shocked*
    Hi
    m:Ij
    ustwantt
    ogett
    oknowy
    out
    hatal
    l
    Me:
    uhm ooky
    Hesmi
    l
    esGodsav
    eme
    Hi
    m:goodby
    e
    Me:waitar
    en'
    tyouher
    etopi
    ckupy
    our
    gi
    rl
    fri
    end?
    Him:noIcameheretoseeyou* hewal
    ksto
    hi
    scaranddr i
    vesoffl
    eavi
    ngmewi thmy
    spi
    nninghead*whydoesitevenspi
    ns
    whenhe'saround,
    bab'
    zondibri
    ngsme
    backtoli
    feasheparksnexttome.
    .
    .
    .
    ~I
    nser
    t4~

    ¶2y
    ear
    slat
    er¶
    °
    Nokwanda°

    YohwheredoIstartuhm notmuchhas
    happenedi
    nthelast2years,Igr
    aduat
    ed
    l
    astonOctoberandIgotaj obonJanuar
    y
    thi
    syearatMkhi zeAt t
    orneysitaLawf i
    rm
    I
    'm sohappytjo,I'
    vebeenwor kingther
    ef or
    4mont hsnowandIhav etosayIenj oy
    worki
    ngt her
    e,ever
    y oneissoni cetome
    uhm wellnoteveryone.anywayImadea
    fri
    endhernamei sNat ashaIcal lherTashaI
    j
    usthopeshewon' tbeany t
    hingl i
    keAmahl e.
    Ohy eahmeandAmahl earenolonger
    fri
    endsy ouremembert hedayoft heparty
    thatIref
    usedtogot oowel lshecameback
    cryi
    ngf r
    om thepartytel
    li
    ngmet hatNsika
    dumpedherbecauseshecamet otheparty
    alone,
    whenshesai dthatIthought
    everyt
    hingwascl eart
    ohert hatshewas
    beingusedt ogetmet ogot othepartybut
    noshebl amedmef oreveryt
    hingsayingifI
    wentwi t
    hhert othepartyNsikawouldn't
    havedumpedhersoourf r
    iendshipended
    thereIdidn'
    tenditshedid.
    Siphodidreal
    l
    ycomet oschool t
    opi ckme
    upsowecoul dgettoknoweachot herand
    we'vebeenfri
    endseversince,
    Ihavea
    phonenowwhi chdoesn'tswit
    choffcause
    wellyouknow" r
    efl
    ect
    ion"andIdisabledmy
    camer aassoonasIgotit.

    Tasha:
    themeet
    ingi
    sin5mi
    nst
    opday
    dreami
    ng
    IsnapoutofmythoughtohMrMkhi
    ze(
    the
    boss)hasanannouncementt
    omakeno
    oneknowswhatitisabout
    .
    Me:I'
    m notday
    dreami
    nghauI
    '
    mjust
    t
    hinki
    ng
    Her
    :about
    ?Noy ou'
    l
    ltel
    lmeaf
    tert
    his
    meeti
    nglet
    'sgo.
    Wewal
    kedoutof
    fmyof
    fi
    cet
    othe
    boardroom yessesIhat emeet ingst hey
    takewayt olongIhar dl
    yev enlisten.Agh
    l
    et '
    stalkaboutmeagai nsot heoldl ady
    showedupagai nlastmont hsay i
    ngt hat
    shet r
    iedherbestbutt heykeepbl ocking
    herandt hatIshouldletfatebringmeback,
    backwher e?Ialsodon' tknow, may beI
    shouldspeakt oSiphoaboutmydr eams
    sincehe'san"expert"inthem ashecl ai
    ms
    ormay benotmaybei twasj ustamer e
    dream.

    "
    Adream aboutonespeci
    fi
    cpersonmor
    e
    t
    han2ti
    mes"mysubconsci oussai
    d
    Ai
    letmej
    ustseewhatf
    atehasf
    orme.
    MrMkhi
    ze:
    sot
    hatwast
    heannouncement
    Wai
    twhat
    ?Ev
    ery
    onegotupIal
    sodi
    dIal
    so
    haveastrangef eeli
    ngli
    kesomeone' s
    watchi
    ngmesoIt urnbeforeexit
    ingthe
    boardr
    oom andIseet hi
    sf i
    ne,handsome
    hotguylookingatmewei rdly
    ..
    probably
    becauseoft hemaskhei smaki ngme
    uncomfortable,whyam iuncomf ortable?
    he'
    snotthef irstper
    sontol ookatme
    weir
    dlyso
    Tasha:
    youanddaydr
    eami
    ng*
    shedr
    agged
    meout*
    Her
    :sowhatdoyouthi
    nkaboutMr
    Mkhi
    ze'
    sson?*smi
    li
    ng*
    Me:
    MrM hasason?
    Her
    :why
    ?Uhwhymustyoual
    way
    sdot
    his
    t
    ome*pret
    endi
    ngt
    ocr
    y*
    Me:st
    opbei
    ngext
    raandt
    ell
    mewho'
    sthat
    hotguy
    Her
    :MrM'sson..
    .y
    ouknowy oushoul
    dst
    art
    pay
    ingat
    tent
    iontothesemeeti
    ngs.
    Ir
    oll
    edmyey
    es
    Her
    :i
    tsl
    uncht
    imel
    et'
    sgobuyi
    t.
    Wewalkedoutandwenttospurj
    ustacr
    oss
    ourbui
    l
    dingandboughtl
    unch.
    Me:
    I'
    ll
    seey
    ouaf
    terl
    unchker
    Her
    :okboo
    Iwal
    kbacktoourbuildi
    ngandjustasI'
    m
    ent
    eri
    ngmyof f
    icethehotsonappearsI
    meanthehands..
    aiMrM'ssonappears
    Hi
    m:hey*
    thev
    oice,
    itssodeepandsexy
    *
    Me:
    hi
    Hi
    m:mayIjoi
    nyouf
    orl
    unch*
    looki
    ngatmy
    t
    akeaway
    *
    Me:
    uhm y
    oucan'
    t
    Hi
    m:whynot
    ?
    I'
    mt i
    redofexpl
    aini
    ngthemaskt
    hingbut
    kerIexpl
    ainitt
    ohim any
    way
    Him: youknowt hatyoushoul
    dn'
    tbe
    ashamedofy oursel
    feveni
    fsomething
    terr
    ibl
    easy ousayhappenedtoy our
    face,y
    oushoul dstaystr
    ongandbey ouand
    facethewor l
    dasi ti
    s,asyouare
    Wowokuhm doi answert
    hat
    ?Not hat
    wasn'
    taquest
    ionsowhatmustIsay,hi
    s
    phoner
    ingsohthanksgod
    Hi
    m:dad
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:ok*hedr
    opsthecal
    l*I
    '
    llseey
    ou
    ar
    oundenj
    oyyourl
    unch
    Me:
    thanks(
    hewalksawayl
    eav
    ingmewi
    th
    myweakknees)
    Iwalki nmyof fi
    ce,
    lockt hedoor
    ,walkt
    othe
    couch, takeaseat,
    takeof fmymaskand
    dinein...
    thi
    sismyev erydayrout
    ineandmy
    offi
    cei ssimil
    artomyr oom, t
    here'
    sno
    shinningobject.
    Af
    terl
    unchIwentbackt
    owor
    k.

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Chr
    is:
    I'
    vebeenknocki
    ngf
    oranent
    ir
    ehour
    br
    ah
    Me:
    stopexagger
    ati
    ng,
    i
    twasj
    ust5mi
    n
    Him:what
    ever
    ,thepoi
    nti
    sthati
    tfel
    tli
    kean
    hour
    Me:
    somuchdr
    amai
    ntheev
    eni
    ng
    Hi
    m:aghwhat
    everI
    '
    m st
    arv
    ing*
    hesay
    sas
    hewal
    kst
    owar
    dst
    hef
    ri
    dge*
    Me:areyousur
    ey ouar en'
    tgaybrah?(He
    gavemeadeadst are)whatI'
    mjustmaki ng
    surecauseI
    'm st
    raightIwouldn'
    twanty ou
    fal
    l
    ingforal
    lofthi
    s* point
    ingatmy sel
    f*
    Hi
    m:you'
    restr
    aightf
    orwho?Causel
    ast
    t
    imeIcheckedyouweresingl
    e
    Me:
    formyf
    utur
    ewi
    fe*Ipr
    oudl
    ysay
    *
    Hi
    m:andwhoi
    sshe?
    Me:
    wel
    lIdon'
    tknowy
    et
    Him:speaki
    ngofuhm what
    'supbet
    ween
    youandthemaskgir
    l?
    Me:fi
    rst
    lyhernameisNokwandaand
    secondl
    ynothing'
    sgoi
    ngon
    Hi
    m:dudeI
    '
    m notachi
    l
    d*t
    aki
    ngabi
    teof
    hi
    ssandwi
    ch*
    Me:
    Iknowthat,itj
    ustt
    hatwhenI'
    m withher
    myheartf
    eelsatpeace,i
    tfeel
    sasifI
    '
    m
    wi
    thmbalenhle
    Him:byt
    hatdon'
    tyout
    hinky
    ou'
    rer
    epl
    aci
    ng
    yoursi
    ster
    ?
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lnev
    erdot
    hat
    Him:okl
    etmemaket
    hingssi
    mpl
    e,y
    oul
    ove
    yoursi
    sterr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    alot
    Him:sowhataboutNokwandadoy oul
    ove
    her?si
    ncesheplaysyoursi
    ster
    'sr
    olei
    n
    yourli
    fenow.
    Wel
    lI.
    .wai
    tdoIl
    oveNokwanda?
    Hi
    m:whi
    leyout
    hinkaboutthatcanwe
    f
    ocusonthemai
    nr easonwhyI'm her
    e
    Me:
    whi
    chi
    s..
    ?
    Hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    outl
    ooki
    nguneasy
    Hi
    m:weer
    r.
    .need.
    .y
    out
    o..
    comeback
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Okbyneedi ngmebackhemeansonback
    i
    nt hecrew,wel lI'
    m aret
    iredgangst erI
    j
    oinedthecr ewwhenIwas18si nceI
    neededhelpt of i
    ndmysi sterandmyski l
    l
    s&
    beingruthl
    essear nedmeagangl eader
    posit
    ionbutsi ncebeingint hegangwas
    point
    lessinfindingmysist erIreti
    redlast
    year.
    Hi
    m:weneedy
    ourhel
    p
    Me:
    wit
    hwhat
    ?*Isaywal
    ki
    ngt
    othef
    ri
    dge*
    Hi
    m:someonef
    rom ourcr
    ewst
    olef
    rom R.
    T
    Iqui
    ckl
    ytur
    ntol
    ookathi
    m
    Me:
    WHAT?
    ???
    ?WHOI
    NTHEI
    RRI
    GHT
    STATEOFMI
    NDWOULDSTEALFROM RED
    TI
    GER??
    Chr
    is:
    oneofournewmember
    s
    Ishakemyhead,ImeanyeahI'
    mfear
    less
    andruthl
    essbutI'
    m nomatcht
    oR.T.

    °
    att
    heNdl
    ovuhousehol
    d°

    Nokwandahadjustwentt
    oherroom af
    ter
    supperandherpar
    ent
    salsowenttot
    heir
    room.
    Sbo:
    honey
    Vuy
    i:
    yeah*
    faci
    nghi
    m*
    Sbo:
    don'
    tyout
    hinki
    tist
    imet
    olethergo
    now?
    Vuy
    i:
    whywoul
    dit
    hinkt
    hat
    ?*wi
    thabor
    ed
    f
    ace*
    Sbo:
    whati
    ffal
    l
    sinl
    ovewi
    thherand.
    ..
    Vuyi
    :*cut
    ti
    nghim off
    *whowoul dfal
    li
    nlov
    e
    wit
    hsomeonewi t
    houtseei
    ngt hem?and
    youknowv er
    ywellwecan'
    tletgoofheror
    doyouwantustoloseever
    ything?
    Sbo:
    ofcour
    senot
    Vuy
    i:
    thenshest
    aysher
    efor
    ever
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Sbosmi
    l
    esbackandgetont
    opofherwi
    fe
    Sbo:
    notonl
    ydidImar
    ryabeaut
    if
    ulwomen
    she'
    ssmartt
    oo
    Hestar
    tedki
    ssingherashi
    shands
    car
    essedherbodyandther
    esti
    shist
    ory
    .

    °
    Nokwanda°
    Icanheart
    hatsomeone'
    siscal
    l
    ingme
    "Nokwandai
    fyoudon'
    twakeupnowy ou'
    l
    l
    belat
    eforwork"mymom'svoi
    ceechoesin
    myears
    Iquickl
    ygetoutofbedwal
    ki
    ngt
    othe
    bathroom
    "
    Meandyourfat
    herarerushi
    ngtoa
    meeti
    ng,
    yourbr
    eakf
    astisinthe
    micr
    owav
    e"mom shouts
    Me:
    Ok!
    !*shout
    ingback
    AftertakingashowerIwal kbackt omy
    room appl yl
    otionasIt ryt
    omaket hebed
    andwearmyf ormal bl
    acksui tthentakemy
    bag,pickupmyphoneohnoI 'm solate
    ,there'
    snot i
    mef orbreakfastIthenwear
    mymaskwal kingoutf eel
    i
    ngl ikeIforgot
    somet hing.
    Bab'zondii
    salreadywai
    ti
    ngforme,
    we
    greeteachotherandhestar
    sthei
    gnit
    ion.

    WhenIgettoworktherecept
    ioni
    stt
    ell
    me
    thatMrM want
    smei nhisoff
    icenow,
    oh
    godmylif
    eisrui
    ned.
    Ifi
    rstl
    ytakemybagtomyoff
    icethenwal
    k
    tohis.Iwal
    kinf
    eel
    ingmyheatbeati
    ngout
    ofmychest .
    MeM: ohmi
    ssndl
    ovuyou'
    reher
    e,t
    akea
    seat*
    usi
    nghi
    shand*
    Helookscal
    m may beIshoul
    drel
    ax,
    Itakea
    seatandwegreeteachother
    Him:Icall
    edyouheretogiveyouthi
    s
    *handi
    ngmeadocument *thati
    sanew
    caseIwantyouandmysont ohandl
    eright
    away,IknowthatIonl
    yintr
    oducedhim
    yester
    dayher
    ebuty
    ou'
    l
    lhav
    etowor
    kwi
    th
    him
    Me:
    oksi
    r,l
    etmegett
    oit
    Istandupwalki
    ngoutfeel
    ingrel
    easedI
    wasn'tf
    ir
    ed.Iwalktohi
    soffi
    ceIfi
    ndhi m
    busyonhislapt
    op, wowsosomanyshi ney
    thi
    ngsherebutatl
    easti
    fIseemyr ef
    lecti
    on
    I'
    ll
    seethemask.
    Hi
    m:ohy
    oual
    readyher
    e,pl
    easet
    akeaseat
    .
    Iseat,there'
    ssomet hi
    ngunsett
    lingabout
    hisaura,nonethelesswegetstraightt
    o
    businessIdon' tknowforhowlongbutI '
    m
    pret
    tysur elunchisoverandI'
    m so
    famished.
    Me:
    canwet
    akeabr
    eaknowI
    '
    m hungr
    y
    Hi
    m: eyy
    oudon'
    tknowhowl ongI
    'vebeen
    wai
    ti
    ngfory
    outosaythat*
    standi
    ng
    up,
    wal
    ki
    ngar
    oundhi
    stabl
    e*
    Ial
    sostandup,woahIf
    eel
    dizypr
    obabl
    y
    becauseofhunger
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    yeah
    Itr
    ytowalkbutfai
    ldi
    small
    yandhecatches
    mebeforefal
    li
    ng.Myeyesmeethi
    sasIf eel
    somethi
    ngmov esinmystomach,
    hehas
    beaut
    if
    uleyeswaitwhat
    ?Isnapoutofit
    Me:
    thanks(
    hei
    sst
    il
    ll
    ooki
    ngatmyey
    es)
    Hi
    m:hav
    eyourey
    esal
    way
    sedspar
    kle?
    Me:
    Idon.
    ..
    Mythought
    srunquickl
    yShi
    tIf
    orgott
    o
    wearmycontactl
    enses
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t5~

    Howdi dIfor
    get?WhydidIf
    orget
    ?Whati
    f
    myreal ey
    esareweir
    d?Hesaysthey
    spar
    kle,
    Idon'
    tknowifit
    sinabadwayor
    good.
    Hi
    m: whydon'
    tyousi
    tdownher
    eI'
    l
    lgobuy
    l
    unchforyouok?
    Inodandhewalksout
    ,Iwal
    ktohiscouch
    holdi
    ngmyheadandtakeaseat
    .
    It
    'sstar
    tingtosinkinnowMrM' ssonsaw
    myr ealeyes,nooneissupposetoseemy
    eyesnowhesawt hem,myparent
    sare
    goingtokillme.myphonedist
    urbsme,oh
    i
    tsSipho/ /
    Me:
    MrMt
    hembu
    Him:ewwnoy
    ouar
    emaki
    ngmesoundol
    d
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    Me:
    youar
    eol
    d
    Hi
    m:gir
    lhav
    eyouseenme?
    *inagay
    ish
    t
    one*
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*what
    ever
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?Yousoundweak
    Me:
    I'
    m hungr
    ybutl
    unchi
    sont
    heway
    Hi
    m:good,
    sowe'
    rest
    il
    lont
    odayr
    ight
    ?
    Ohi
    tsFr
    idayourhangoutday
    Me:
    ye..
    (owmyeyes)uhm canwe
    r
    eschedul
    etot
    omorrow
    Hi
    m:why
    ?
    Li
    e
    Me:mom needmet
    ohel
    pherwi
    th
    somethi
    ng
    Him:
    owkyt
    henenj
    oyt
    her
    estofy
    ourday
    bubu
    Me:
    thanks,
    yout
    oo/
    /
    Wehangup.Aftereat
    ingl
    unchIneedtogo
    homeIcan'
    tri
    sksomeoneelselooktomy
    eyes
    "
    heyI'
    m backwi
    thl
    unch"
    hesay
    sashe
    wal
    ksinandIst
    andup
    Hi
    m:wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng?
    Me:
    myof
    fi
    ce,
    toeat
    Him:owyeah,
    hereyougoMi
    ssNdl
    ovu
    *handi
    ngmelunch*
    Me:
    thanksMrMkhi
    zeohandpl
    easecal
    lme
    mbal
    enhle
    Not
    hatwasn'
    tmeIswear
    Me:
    ImeanNokwanda
    Hi
    m:butIl
    i
    kethenamembal
    enhl
    emor
    e
    t
    hanNokwanda
    Me:
    butI
    '
    m no.
    .
    Him:
    Idon'
    tchangemymindlady
    *smi
    rki
    ng*
    andpleasecal
    lmeMJ
    Me:
    Mkhi
    zeJuni
    or?*
    giggl
    i
    ng*
    Hel
    ooksatmef
    orawhi
    l
    e
    Hi
    m:Ir
    eal
    l
    ywantt
    oseey
    ourf
    ace
    Oohky
    Me:
    youcan'
    t
    Him:ohIwi l
    lI'
    vemadeupmymi nd,i
    tmay
    notbenowbutIwi l
    landMJaremy
    i
    nit
    ials.
    .Melokuhl
    eJason*het
    urnswalki
    ng
    tohischairandIwalktomyoff
    iceandhave
    l
    unch*
    ~
    °
    R.T(
    redt
    iger
    )°

    Whothef
    uckdotheythinktheyare?
    St
    eal
    i
    ngfrom me?ME? ?Afterever
    ythi
    ng
    I
    'v
    edonefort
    hem,theystealfr
    om me.
    "
    Cal
    m downR"
    Me:
    DON'
    TFUCKI
    NTELLMETOCALM
    DOWNKAY!
    !
    Kay:okoknowstopshout
    ingatme,her
    e
    Hammerwant st
    otal
    ktoyou*handi
    ngme
    thephone*
    //
    Me:
    tal
    k
    Hi
    m:Rwewi
    l
    lret
    urny
    ourst
    uff
    Me:whywasi
    tst
    oleni
    nthef
    ir
    stpl
    ace?
    *
    pissedt
    one*
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tknowmanandIapol
    ogi
    zef
    or
    myt
    eam
    Me:Idon'tcareHammerallIknowisthat
    whoev eri
    twasi sgoi
    ngtopayIwill
    notjust
    l
    etthisgot hatper
    sonhastolear
    nhis
    l
    esson/ /
    NxIhangup
    Kay
    :so?
    Me:f
    indt
    heniggawhost ol
    efr
    om meand
    l
    ockhim upcauseIhav
    esomet hi
    ngt
    odo
    att
    hemoment
    Kay
    :gangorper
    sonal
    Me:
    per
    sonal
    Hi
    m:okbutdon'
    tfor
    gett
    hatwear
    ehi
    tt
    ing
    t
    heclubt
    onight
    Me:
    doIhav
    etoo?
    Ir
    eal
    l
    ydon'
    tfeel
    li
    kehi
    tt
    ingt
    hecl
    ubt
    oday
    andKayseemsshockedbymyquest
    ion
    Him:
    you?r
    efusi
    ngt
    ogot
    oacl
    ub?
    arey
    ou
    ok?
    Me:
    stopf
    ussi
    ngI
    '
    mfi
    ne
    Hi
    m:l
    ikei
    tornotyou'
    regoingt
    othecl
    ub
    t
    oni
    ghtcauseyoupromisedme.
    Yahnehl
    i
    ttl
    ebr
    other
    s
    Me:
    okoknowgo
    Hesmilesandwal
    kout
    .Nowt
    het
    askat
    hand.
    ~
    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °
    Wel
    lIt
    ri
    ed
    Chr
    is:
    whatdi
    dhesay
    ?
    Me:thathe'
    sgoi
    ngt
    oteachy
    ournewbi
    ea
    l
    esson
    Hi
    m:dudewehav
    etohel
    phi
    m
    Me:
    "we"
    Hi
    m:comeonman
    Me:okokhecanst
    ayherewi
    thmefora
    whil
    ewell
    upunti
    lwefi
    xthi
    ngswi
    thR.Toh
    andfucky
    oubrah
    Hechuckl
    ed
    Him:Il
    ovey
    outoonowcomegi
    vemeaki
    ss
    *hecomestowar
    dsme*
    Me:
    dudewhatar
    eyoudoi
    ng
    Hi
    m:gi
    vi
    ngy
    ouaki
    ss
    Imovebackandhecomescl
    oserChr
    isi
    s
    cr
    azyyaz
    Me:wuuhi
    sthatBel
    la*Isaypoi
    nti
    ngbehi
    nd
    hi
    m weareataparki
    nglotbytheway
    Hequi
    ckl
    yst
    andsst
    il
    landactcool
    ,maki
    ng
    mel
    aughmybutof
    f
    Hi
    m:t
    hat
    'snowayt
    ojokeSi
    pho
    Me:
    *l
    aughing*wai
    tletmecatchmybreat
    h
    *
    Ibr
    eathinandout*thatwi
    l
    lteachy
    ounot
    t
    oactgayi
    sharoundme
    Hi
    m:nxl
    etmej
    ustgoandf
    etcht
    hisguy
    Hecl i
    mbinhiscarandIcl i
    mbtomineand
    star
    ttheignit
    ion.Half
    waytomyapart
    ment
    myphoner ings,Il
    ookatitandmyl
    ips
    curvesint
    oasmi l
    e//
    Me:
    I'
    m gonnasl
    eepwel
    ltoni
    ght
    Shegi
    ggl
    es,
    soot
    hingmyhear
    t
    Her
    :I
    'mf
    inet
    hanksandy
    ou
    Me:
    Iai
    n'
    tbadmy
    sel
    f
    Her
    :ar
    eyoudr
    ivi
    ng?
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    m al
    mosthome
    Her:
    oksoanypr
    ogr
    essonf
    indi
    ngy
    our
    si
    ster
    Me:
    noandI
    '
    m sl
    owl
    ylosi
    nghope
    Her
    :comeonSi
    phodon'
    tsayt
    hat
    Me:Nokwandait'
    sbeen5y ear
    s,there'
    sno
    t
    raceofher,
    notevenali
    ttl
    ebitofitnothi
    ng
    (
    Ithi
    nkI'
    m gett
    ingabitofemotional)
    Her
    :havehopeSi
    phodon'
    tl
    osei
    t,don'
    tgi
    ve
    uponher
    Me:
    but
    ..
    Her
    :nobut
    s,y
    oul
    ovey
    oursi
    sterr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    yeah
    Her
    :t
    hendon'
    tgi
    veuponher
    Me:
    *Isi
    gh*ok,
    thanks
    Her
    :t
    hat
    'swhatf
    ri
    endsar
    eforuhm bubu
    Hi
    m:what
    every
    ouwanty
    ouwi
    l
    lnotgeti
    t
    f
    rom me
    Her
    :whosai
    dIwant
    edsomet
    hing
    Me:
    youj
    ustcal
    l
    edmebubu
    Her:
    okfi
    nebutdon'
    tbeamazedwhenwhat
    Iwantendsupi
    nmyhands.
    Wet al
    kforaverylongti
    me, wheni
    tisti
    me
    formetotakeashowerIdr opthecal
    l,
    take
    ashowerthencallandwet al
    kagai
    nasI
    makemywayt obed..
    ..
    .Iwonderwhat
    happenedtoChrisandthenewbie.
    ~

    Sat
    urday

    Chri
    ssentmeat extl
    astnightsay
    ingthatR
    hasalr
    eadyt
    ookt henewbieandIseriousl
    y
    can'
    tdoanyt
    hingaboutthatcauseonceR
    hasmadeuphi smindhedoesn'tchangesit.
    AnywaymeandNokwaar eatthecinema
    wat chingsomeact i
    onmov i
    e,Ioptedfor
    romencecauseIt houghtshewoul dloveit
    sinceshe'sagirlbutshesaidshedoesn' t
    wanti tcausei
    twi l
    lmakehercr yandshe
    willneedtowipeof fhertears,
    whichwill
    requirehertotakeoffthemaskbl ahbl ah
    blah..
    .Iwonderhowbadherf aceis?

    °
    Nokwanda°

    HangingoutwithSiphoisal waysamazing
    andI'
    llbegett
    ingwhatIwant edsoonwhich
    i
    ssomenewl i
    mi t
    ededi t
    ionsneakers,
    they
    haven'
    tgottoS.Ay etbutsinceIknew
    Siphohasconnecti
    onsIbeggedhi m
    knowingverywellt
    hathecannotsaynot o
    me.
    Me:
    uhm I
    '
    m hungr
    y
    Hi
    m:byt
    haty
    oumeany
    ouhav
    etol
    eav
    e
    Me:
    yeah*Isayst
    andi
    ngupwear
    enowi
    n
    t
    hepark*
    Hi
    m:doy
    ouhav
    eto?
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    Me:
    ncohy
    oul
    ookcut
    e
    Hi
    m:cat
    sar
    ecut
    enotme
    Me:
    wel
    lyoudo
    Him:
    am not
    ,butonaseri
    ousnoteI'
    m stil
    l
    enj
    oyi
    ngyourcompany
    ,uhm *t
    hinking*
    why
    don'
    twegotomyapartmentyou'
    lleatther
    e
    i
    noneoftherooms
    Me:i
    sther
    earoom i
    nyourapart
    mentthat
    hasnomirr
    ororany
    thi
    ngthatshi
    nes?
    Hi
    m:er
    rno
    Me:
    thenIcan'
    tgot
    oyourapar
    tment
    ,now
    standupanddr
    ivemehomebef
    oreIdi
    eof
    hunger
    Hi
    m:saypl
    ease
    Me:
    aimar
    nSi
    pho*
    fir
    mvoi
    ce*
    Him:ev
    enwhenyoutryt
    osoundangr
    yyou
    soundli
    kembal
    i
    *standi
    ngup*
    Me:
    mbal
    i
    ??
    Him:mysist
    er.
    ohI'
    v enevert
    oldy
    ouher
    nameI '
    veal
    waysreferr
    edtoheras"my
    si
    ster"*
    chuckl
    es*hernamei smbalenhl
    e
    myf amil
    y'
    sbeauti
    fulf
    lower*
    smil
    ing*
    Mbal
    enhl
    e?Waitt
    hat
    's.
    ..
    nahmay
    bei
    t'
    sjust
    acoi
    nci
    dence.
    "
    Lookwhatwehaveher
    e"webot
    htur
    nand
    I
    '
    m shockedt
    oseeLebo
    Her
    :soy
    ouser
    iousl
    ylef
    tmef
    ort
    hiswei
    rdo?
    *
    wit
    hadi
    sgust
    edl
    ook*
    What
    ?
    Sipho:
    Idi
    dn'tl
    eaveyouforanyone,
    theonl
    y
    reasonIl
    eftyouisYOUnowi fyoudon'
    t
    mi ndwehaveplacest
    obe
    Wetur
    nandleaveherl
    ooki
    ngpissed,
    weget
    i
    nthecarandst
    artt
    heigni
    ti
    on.

    .
    ~inser
    t6~

    I
    t'sSundaynightandmysl eephasdesert
    ed
    me, somucht hought
    sar erunningi
    nmy
    head,thought
    saboutmyl i
    fe,whatMJsai
    d
    tomet heotherdayisstuckinmyhead.
    Howl ongwillIl
    iv
    einfear?ti
    llI
    die?alone..
    .causenoonewi l
    leverfall for
    someonel i
    kemeImeanwoul dy ouf allf
    or
    someoney oucan' tsee?someoney oucan' t
    kiss?Ev enifIshowmyf acet othe
    wor l
    d,whowoul dfall
    forsomeonewi tha
    terri
    bleface?Idon' twanttoscar epeopl e
    away ,I'
    veseenhowmypar entslookatme
    whenI '
    m notwear i
    ngmymaski t'
    sliket hey
    seesomet hingdisgusti
    ng,howwoul dt he
    wor l
    dseemei fmyownpar entsseemeas
    somet hingt hatacowj ustvomitedout .
    Andt hent here'
    s"mbalenhle"Si
    pho'ssi
    ster
    ,
    Ican'thelpbutf eell
    ikethi
    sisnota
    coincidence..butIcan'
    tbehissist
    erI'
    ma
    Ndlovu, aiyouknowwhat ?togetapeaceof
    mindI '
    m goi ngtoaskSiphomor eabouthis
    si
    st er
    .
    Myal
    arm goesof
    fgeezIdi
    dn'
    tsl
    eepand
    I'
    m notsur ei fI '
    mr eadytoseeMJ, thatguy
    makesmef eel strangethingsev ent hinking
    abouthi m gi vesmebut terfl
    ies,Ihav et otel
    l
    himt ogetoutofmymi nd.Any wayIdomy
    mor ni
    ngr out i
    nemaki ngsureIdon' tfor get
    mycont actl ensest henmakemywayt othe
    l
    ivingr oom If indmypar entsal r
    eadyexi t
    ing
    thehouse, Iwonderhowt heywoul dr eactif
    Iev ertakeof fmymaskmay bet hey '
    dbe
    disappoi ntedsi nceImadeapr omi set o
    them pl usI'm notonl ykeepi ngmymaskon
    allthet i
    mebecauseoft hepr omi seImade
    I'
    m al sokeepi ngi tonbecauseoft hef ear
    they '
    veinst all
    edi nme. .
    Ifearbeingl aughed
    at,Ifearbeingj ugded, If
    earbei ngl abel edas
    different.
    ..
    .
    Any
    wayaf
    terhav
    ingbr
    eakf
    astIl
    eav
    efor
    wor
    k
    Bab'
    zondi
    :mor
    ning
    Me:
    mor
    ningbabaunj
    ani
    (howar
    eyou)
    Him:ngyaphi
    l
    anganey
    am wenaunj
    n?(
    I'
    m
    good,howareyou?
    )
    Me:
    I'
    m al
    sogood
    Wer
    emai
    nsi
    l
    entashedr
    ivesmet
    owor
    k.
    Me:bab'
    zondi
    whyhav
    eyounev
    erasked
    aboutmymask?
    Comet othi
    nkofi
    the'stheonlyper
    sonI'
    ve
    evert
    alkedtoowi
    thoutquest
    ioni
    ngabout
    mymask.
    Hi
    m:er
    rIwasor
    der
    edt
    onotquest
    ionabout
    i
    t
    Oww
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Hi
    m:*
    hel
    ooksuncomf
    ort
    abl
    e*I
    ..
    I*
    clear
    ing
    hi
    sthr
    out
    *Idon'
    tknow.
    Me:Ipr
    omiseIwon'
    ttel
    l(If
    eel
    li
    kehe'
    s
    hi
    dingsomethi
    ngfr
    om me)
    Hi
    m: NokwandaIdonotwantt olosemy
    j
    ob,Ihave3ki
    dsathomet hatdependonme
    si
    nceI'mthei
    rbreadwi
    nnersoplease
    Me:y
    ouwon'tlosey
    ourjobbabaIswearI
    won'
    tquest
    ionmyparents
    Hi
    m:*si
    ghs*Ioncewal
    kedinonyou
    sl
    eepi
    ngonthecouchwit
    houtyourmask
    onan.
    ..
    Me:
    you'
    veseenmyf
    ace?
    ???
    *shocked*
    Hi
    m:y
    eah
    Me:
    howbadi
    sit
    ?
    Hi
    m:well
    ..
    Ican'
    ttel
    landI'
    vetoldyoutoo
    much,
    sot oansweryourf
    irstquest
    ion.
    ..
    .I
    donotquest
    ionaboutyourmaskbecauseI
    knowwhat'
    sbehindit
    .
    Hest opst hecarandIreal
    isethatwe've
    arri
    vesoIgetoutoft hecarandbi d
    bab'zondigoodby ewi
    thoutlookingathim,I
    feelsoashamedbecausehesawmy
    terr
    ibl
    ef ace.Iwalki
    nthebui l
    dingfeel
    i
    ngso
    down, howcanIbesocar elesswhydidn'tI
    j
    ustsl eepinmyr oom.
    Tasha:
    goodmor
    ning*
    flashi
    ngasmi
    l
    e*
    Me:
    mor
    ningf
    ri
    end
    Her
    :what
    'swr
    ong?Yousoundsodown.
    Me:don'
    tworr
    yaboutmeI
    '
    llbef
    ine*
    we
    ent
    ertheel
    evator
    *
    Her
    :I
    'm al
    readywor
    ri
    edt
    alkt
    ome.
    Il
    ookatherandseehowwor
    ri
    edshei
    s.
    Me:*si
    ghs*Fri
    dayandt odaymademe
    real
    i
    zethatI'
    m car
    eless,2peopl
    ebesides
    myparents,
    hasseenpar tsofmethatno
    oneissupposetosee
    Her
    :di
    danyt
    hingbadhappen?Dot
    heyl
    ook
    aty
    oudif
    fer
    entl
    y?
    Me:not
    hingbadhappenedIthi
    nk..
    1ofthem
    l
    ooksatmewi thpi
    tyandtheotheruhm I
    don'
    tknow.
    Ir
    eall
    ycoul
    dn'
    treadMJ'
    sexpr
    essi
    on,
    it
    wasn'
    tweir
    dnorpit
    y
    Her:
    Ireall
    ywishIknewhowy oulookl
    ike
    causerightnowIfeel
    li
    keauselessfr
    iendI
    havenocl ueonwhattosay
    *looki
    ngdown*
    Me:
    uhmm I
    ..
    Her:
    nodon'
    tworryy
    ou'
    l
    lshowmeyourf
    ace
    whenyou'
    velear
    ntt
    otr
    ustme*smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    Idot
    rusty
    ou
    Her :
    youdon't,
    ifyoudidyouwould'
    veshown
    mey ourfacebynow, f
    ri
    endsdonotmake
    funofeachot hernorjudgeandyouthi
    nkI
    wi l
    lj
    ugdeormakef unofyoumeaningyou
    don'ttrustmebutdon'tworryI
    'l
    lwai
    tti
    ll
    you
    trustme* theelev
    atoropens,
    wewalkout*
    Herwordsar
    ecutt
    ingdeepinsi
    demeIdon'
    t
    evenknowhowtorespond.
    Her:
    todayI'
    ll
    beincourtImightnotseeyou
    fort
    herestoftheday,
    Ijustcamehereto
    getafil
    e..
    goodbye*wehug*
    Me:
    bye
    Iwalktomyof f
    icet
    hinking,
    may beIshoul
    d
    showhermyf acebutifIhavetodosoI '
    ll
    havetofi
    rstseemyf acemy sel
    faghwhat
    aboutmypr omiset
    omypar ent
    s
    "Mor
    ningLenhl
    e"MJsay
    sst
    andi
    ngi
    nfr
    ont
    ofmyoffi
    cedoor
    Me:
    mynamei
    sNokwanda*
    looki
    ngathi
    m*
    Hi
    m:howar
    ey.
    .wai
    tar
    ethosecont
    act
    l
    enses?
    Me:
    yeah
    Hi
    m:why
    ?whyhi
    dey
    ourbeaut
    if
    ulspar
    kli
    ng
    ey
    es?
    Het hi
    nksmyrealey
    esarebeauti
    ful
    ahhmy
    cheeksarebur
    ningam Ibl
    ushi
    ng?It
    hinkI
    '
    m
    blushi
    ng
    Me:
    uhm becauseIwantt
    o*Il
    i
    e*
    Hi
    m:why
    ?
    Me:canwej
    ustcont
    inuewor
    kingont
    he
    case.
    Hel
    ooksatmesuspi
    ciousl
    yforagood
    mi
    nut
    e
    Him:whatar
    ey ouhi
    ding?youknowwhatdo
    notanswerIl
    ikemysteri
    es.
    Hewal ksofftohisoff
    iceandIl
    etgooft he
    breat
    hIdidn'tevenknowIwashol di
    ng,
    I
    walkinsi
    demyof f
    ice,
    placemybagontop
    ofthetabl
    et henwalktoMJ'soff
    ice
    *puff
    ing*thi
    sisgoingtobealongday .
    ~
    °
    Mj°

    Shewal ksi
    nhol di
    ngaf i
    l
    e,thi
    ssuitshe'
    s
    wearingisdoingwonderstoherbody ,
    she
    takesaseatandwest artwor ki
    ngbutmy
    mindi scompletel
    ynotinthiscaseit
    's
    focusingonthisangel
    icvoiceacross
    me,whatisthisgir
    ldoi
    ngt ome? Idonot
    needtoknowherf acetoknowt hatshe's
    beauti
    fulbutkersinceaf i
    leaboutherison
    i
    twayi twouldn'thurtanyoneknowingher
    face.
    .Khayajustwalksinmyof fi
    cewithout
    knockingdistur
    bingmyt houghtmy
    beauti
    fulthoughts
    Him:ohsorr
    y,pleasedon'
    tmindmeI'l
    lseat
    hereandwait*heseatsonthecouchand
    remainsqui
    et*
    Ishakemyheadandwecont
    inuewor
    king
    ti
    ll
    lunch.
    Her
    :we'
    l
    lfi
    nishof
    faf
    terl
    unch
    Me:ok*
    shewal
    ksout
    ,cl
    osi
    ngt
    hedoor
    behi
    ndher
    *
    Khaya:Wow.
    .*st
    andi
    ngupandwal
    ks
    towardsme*
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:t
    hebodyman
    Igi
    vehi
    m adeadst
    are
    Me:
    j
    ustgi
    vemewhatIaskedf
    or
    Hehandsmeafi
    le,
    ohgodt
    hisi
    sit,
    thi
    sfi
    l
    e
    wil
    lpr
    ovemer
    ightorwr
    ongabouther
    beaut
    y.
    Iinhal
    e,
    exhal
    ethenopent
    hef
    il
    e..
    what
    the..
    ??
    Me:
    whati
    sthi
    s?
    Khay
    a: t
    hat
    'saf
    il
    ey ouaskedmetof
    etch
    fr
    om yourI
    Tguy*hesayscal
    mly
    *
    Me: andwher
    eistherestofitcauseit
    'sl
    i
    ke
    there'
    snothi
    nghere?
    (I'
    m start
    ingtoget
    pissedoff
    )
    Hi
    m:hesai
    dal
    lthei
    nfoi
    sther
    e
    Me:
    Butt
    her
    e'snof
    ucki
    npi
    ctur
    eher
    ethat
    showsherf
    ace!
    !!
    Him:
    calm downok,
    thi
    sissuspi
    ciousdon'
    t
    yout
    hink?
    He'
    sri
    ghtsomet
    hing'
    sup,
    Ical
    m down
    Him:sowhatmustwedonow?causewe
    bothknowSpheisthebestI
    Tmeaning
    ther
    ereal
    lyi
    snopictur
    eofthi
    sgi
    rlwit
    hout
    hermaskon.
    ThinkMJthi
    nk,
    Ihavegott
    oseeherf
    ace,
    so
    thi
    nk..
    .myf
    acel
    ight
    ensup
    Hi
    m:gotsomet
    hing
    Me:yeah,
    sheal
    way
    seatl
    unchatherof
    fi
    ce
    s.
    ..
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m pr
    ett
    ysur
    eshel
    ockst
    hedoor
    Me:
    iknowshel
    ockst
    hedoorl
    etmef
    ini
    sh
    (
    henods)t
    oni
    ghtwei
    nst
    all
    afewsmall
    camerasinheroffi
    ce,
    duringlunch
    tomorr
    owshewi llt
    akeof fhermaskthen
    boom,chi
    ckensoup,herface*Isayrest
    ing
    backonmychai rpl
    acingmyf eetont
    opof
    thet
    able*
    Him:
    notbad,anddudest
    opsay
    ing
    boom,
    chickensoup.

    Mcm. .
    I'm MelokuhleJasonMkhizeI
    'm 25
    yearsoldandIhopeLenhl e'
    sfaceis
    beauti
    fulasherey eswhicharether
    eason
    I
    'm doingallofthi
    s
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t7~
    °
    Nokwanda°

    Tuesday

    I'
    m sogl admeandMJar edonewi t
    hthis
    caset heonl ythi
    ngl eftisforust ogot o
    courttomor rowt henwe' llbeoutofeach
    other'
    swayy ohthatguymakesmef eel
    somewei r
    dt hi
    ngs..
    any wayi tsluncht i
    me
    andI '
    m maki ngmywaybackt omyof fi
    ce
    withmyl unchI'm notexact lyhungr ybutI
    willeatcauseIcannotsaynot of oodhell
    no.Iwal kinsidemyof fi
    cel ockt hedoor ,
    walkt othecouchandt akeaseatwuuht his
    burgersmel l
    ssogood. .
    justasI '
    m aboutt o
    takeof fmymasksomeoneknocksonmy
    doorIl ookatmybur gerthef r
    iest henatt he
    door .
    "Thi
    sbett
    erbeimpor
    tant
    *Imumbl
    easI
    openthedoor
    Si
    pho:
    sur
    pri
    se*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    dudeI
    '
    m onadat
    eyourdi
    stur
    bing
    Hissmilequi
    ckl
    yfadedandhepushedme
    outofthewayashewal ksi
    nandlooks
    around,het
    henlooksbackatme
    Me:
    what
    ?Di
    dIsaysomet
    higwr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:don'
    tj
    okel
    i
    ket
    hat
    Me:l
    ikewhat
    ?CauseI
    'm ser
    iousy
    ou
    di
    sturbedmydat
    ewit
    hmyl unch*f
    oldi
    ng
    myar ms*
    Him:
    dramati
    cmuchandher
    eIt
    hought
    you'
    l
    lbehappyt
    oseeme
    Me:
    wel
    lI'
    m not
    Hi
    m:Iknowy
    ouar
    e,sohowmuchwor
    klef
    t
    f
    ory
    out
    odot
    oday
    ?
    Me:
    mmhact
    ual
    l
    yI'
    m donef
    ort
    odaywhy
    ?
    Him:greatt
    hengraby
    ourbagandlunch
    you'
    l
    leatatmyhouseIfi
    xedaroom fory
    ou
    j
    ustthewayy oul
    i
    keit
    .
    OhI'
    l
    lgetachancetoaskhi
    m mor
    eabout
    mbal
    enhle,Idoashesay
    sandwewalkout
    ofmyoffi
    ce
    "Lenhl
    e"Itur
    nandseeMJwai
    twhydoeshe
    seem pissed
    Me:
    Jason
    Hesmi
    l
    es,
    wasn'
    thepi
    ssedl
    i
    keasecond
    ago
    Hi
    m:you'
    rel
    eavi
    ngal
    readyory
    ou'
    rehav
    ing
    l
    unchsomewhereel
    se?
    Me:
    I'
    m donef
    ort
    hedaysoI
    '
    mleav
    ing
    Him:
    *heshif
    thisgazetoSi
    phoandl
    ooksat
    hi
    m wit
    hanintenselookt
    henbackt
    ome*
    soI'
    l
    lseeyoutomorrowatcour
    t
    Me:yeahuhm enj
    oytherestofy
    ourday(he
    l
    ooksatmeasi fhehasmanyquest i
    onsto
    askbutInolongerwanttobeherecause
    these2menar efi
    ght
    ingeachotherwit
    h
    thei
    reyes)
    Hi
    m:thanks,
    youtoo*hewal
    ksawayt
    henI
    l
    etgoofmybr eath*
    MeandSi
    phoal
    sol
    eav
    e
    ~
    Whenwegett oSipho'
    splaceheshowsme
    theroom het
    oldmeaboutandi t
    sperf
    ect
    thethemeisblackandyel
    lowwowits
    beauti
    ful
    Itel
    lyou.
    Hi
    m:y
    oul
    i
    kei
    t?
    Me:
    dude*
    looki
    ngar
    ound*Il
    ovei
    t
    Him:ohthankgod*hol
    dinghi
    schest*these
    color
    sarembali'
    sfavori
    tesoIthoughtyou
    toomightalsol
    ikeem eventhoughIdidn'
    t
    askyou
    Me:nowaythey '
    remyf avor
    it
    etoo( t
    his
    Mbalithi
    ngisstart
    ingtogetcreepy)and
    speaki
    ngofy oursist
    erIhaveaf ew
    questi
    onstoasky ou
    Hi
    m:sur
    easkaway
    Me:
    notnow,
    Iwantt
    oeatf
    ir
    st
    Him:
    Iwonderwhyy
    ouar
    enotchubbyy
    az
    youl
    ovefood
    Me:
    Idonot
    Hi
    m:y
    oudo*
    maki
    ngal
    azyf
    ace*
    Me:
    mcm gi
    vemet
    hekey
    sandgetoutof
    her
    e
    Hehandsmet
    hekey
    sandwal
    kout
    mumbli
    ng
    Him:she'
    snotevenaskingmeni cel
    yto
    l
    eave,sheki
    ckingmeouti naroom atmy
    apar
    tmentthisiswi
    tchcraft
    .
    Me:Iheardt
    hat*Isaylocki
    ngt
    hedoorand
    si
    tont hi
    scomfortabl
    ebed*
    Af
    tereat
    ingIj
    oinhi
    m att
    hel
    ounge
    Hi
    m:sur
    etooky
    oursweett
    ime
    Me:exactl
    yMYsweett
    ime*
    poi
    nti
    ngat
    myself*
    Him:*
    roll
    inghiseyes*
    anywaywhydi dt
    hat
    guycallyou"Lenhl
    e"ory
    ouhav easecond
    namet hatIdonotknowoff?
    *raisi
    nghi
    s
    eyebr
    ow*
    Me:aghlongst
    oryandnoIdonothav
    ea
    secondname.
    Hi
    m:ojahoksoquest
    ions?AndIdon'tknow
    whatyoudon'
    tknowabouthercauseI'
    ve
    t
    oldyouevery
    thi
    ngaboutherbutkerask
    Me:
    Iknowthati
    tsj
    ustt
    hathernamer
    ingsa
    l
    otofbel
    l
    sinmyhead
    Hi
    m:ther
    earesomanymbalenhl
    esi
    nthe
    worl
    dsoIdon'
    tgetwher
    eyou'r
    egoi
    ngwit
    h
    t
    his
    Me:*si
    gh*y
    ousai
    dhowmanyYear
    shasshe
    beenmissi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:5
    Me:
    ok.
    .(
    wai
    thol
    dup)
    Me:y
    ousai
    dshe'
    smyagesowheni
    sher
    bi
    rt
    hday
    ?
    Hi
    m:6t
    hofJune
    Me:
    ok.
    .(
    wai
    thol
    dup)
    Myheadi
    sspi
    nni
    ngohgod
    Si
    pho:
    arey
    ouok?
    Me:yeahI'
    mf i
    neuhm pl
    easet
    ell
    meabout
    yourchi
    ldhoodwit
    hher
    Him:okletmegograbsomet
    hingf
    ir
    st(he
    rushesoffandIt
    ryt
    otamemyspinni
    ng
    head).

    °
    MJ°

    Iwokeupinav erygoodmoodt oday


    ,whenI
    gottoworkIthi
    nkIgr eetedever
    yonewitha
    dashi
    ngsmilesomet hingIhardl
    ydo.Iwal
    k
    tomyoffi
    cewhi st
    li
    ngandf i
    ndKhayasit
    ti
    ng
    i
    nmychai
    r.
    Me:
    thef
    uckdude*
    closi
    ngt
    hedoorbehi
    nd
    me*
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m goodt
    hanksf
    oraski
    ng*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    nx,
    Ithoughtyousai
    dyouwer
    egoi
    ngto
    wor
    ksowhatt hehel
    larey
    oudoi
    ngher
    e?
    Me:
    yesIdi
    dsayt
    hatandIam atwor
    k,Your
    wor
    k.*
    smir
    ks*
    Thi
    ssonofabeauti
    fulwomenissmi
    rki
    ng
    atmeyoohSat
    anistesti
    ngme,I'
    mina
    goodmoodsoletmekeepitt
    hatway.
    Me:
    getof
    ffr
    om mychai
    r
    Hi
    m:butI
    '
    m comf
    y
    Me:
    Khay
    a*gi
    vi
    nghi
    m adeadst
    are*
    Hi
    m: okok*
    getti
    ngoff*ohandbyt
    heway
    t
    here'snoI
    'm missi
    ngthi
    sday.
    Nxx, Ijustmi ndmywor k.Themomentt he
    clockhi ts12Il eaveeverythingandopenmy
    l
    apt opt henl ogi ntothecamer asadt here
    shei s,Khay apl acesachairnextt omeand
    wewat cht ogether.Shetakesoutherwal let
    from herbagt henwal kout ,
    aft
    er15mi nut es
    shewal ksbacki n,l
    ocksthedoort hent akea
    seat, herhandsmov est ohermask. .
    .OkMJ
    thisisi t.
    .herhandssuddenl ymov eaway
    from t hemaskasshel ookatt hedoort han
    herf oodt henst andsupFuck!
    Khaya:noneedtobefrust
    rat
    edman,wejust
    havetowaitforwhoev
    erisatthedoort
    o
    l
    eave.
    Someniggawal
    ksi
    nasi
    fhe'
    sbei
    ng
    chased.
    .wai
    t
    Khay
    a:i
    sthat
    ..
    Me:
    hammer
    ???
    Whatt
    hef
    ucki
    shammer
    doi
    ngher
    e??
    Khay
    a:she'
    spacki
    nghert
    hings
    Iqui
    ckl
    yst
    andup, howdoesLenhleknows
    hammerandwhyt hefucki
    ssheleavi
    ng
    wit
    hhim,t
    hisstupidniggaj
    ustr
    uinmy
    pl
    ansandtechnicall
    ymydaynx.
    Iwal
    koutgoi
    ngst
    rai
    ghtt
    oLenhl
    e'
    sof
    fi
    ce.
    ~
    °
    Nokwanda°

    Isi
    tacoincidencethatt
    heyearmbal
    enhle
    wentmissingisthesameyearIl
    ostmy
    memory?Andf ort
    hefactt
    hatweshare
    samebirt
    hday .
    Ahhhstopspi
    nni
    ngy
    ouaremaki
    ngme
    di
    zzy(Isayi
    nsi
    demyheadt
    omyhead)
    Si
    phocomesbackandsi
    tsnextt
    ome
    hol
    dinganul
    bum
    Him:i
    twil
    lbealoteasi
    ert
    oexpl
    ainour
    chi
    ldhoodwit
    hthis.
    Ashewasopeni
    ngt
    heul
    bum t
    hedoorbel
    l
    rang
    Hi
    m:uhm I
    '
    llbeback
    Ineedwat
    erIst
    andupgoi
    ngt
    otheki
    tchen
    andIbumptoChri
    s
    Me:
    sor
    ry
    Hi
    m:nowor
    ri
    es,
    yougood?
    Me:
    yeahIj
    ustneedwat
    er,
    whatabouty
    ou?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m good
    Inodandwal ktotheki
    tchen,gr
    abt heblack
    waterbott
    leandgot ot
    her oom c.
    .wellI
    '
    ll
    j
    ustcalli
    tmyr oom..
    Igotomyr oom, l
    ock
    thedoor,
    takeof ft
    hemaskanddrinkwater
    .
    Istayi
    nther oom forsometi
    me,putback
    mymaskont henheadbackt
    othelounge.
    Me:
    wher
    e'sChr
    is?
    *looki
    ngar
    ound*
    Sipho:
    he'sgone,
    hej
    ustcamet
    ofet
    ch
    something
    Me:
    ohoksowher
    ewer
    eyou?Ir
    eal
    l
    yhav
    e
    t
    oleav
    esoon
    Him:Iwashere* openingt heul bum* meand
    mbalenhlewerenaught yki dsjustli
    keevery
    otherkidssoont hisdayi twasour
    parents'
    sanni
    v ersary
    , wepl annedtomake
    breakfastf
    orthem wewokeupear lywe
    didn'
    twanttomakeEngl ishbr eakfast
    causeweeati tev er
    ydaysoweopt edfor
    pancakesandcomet ot hinkofi twehadno
    i
    deaonhowt omaket hem, wej ustknew
    thatiti
    nvol
    vedf l
    ourthatweendedup
    messingupt hekitchen,
    whenmom anddad
    wokeupt heydidn'thavethestr
    engt
    hto
    shoutatustheyj ustl
    aughedatusandtook
    pict
    uressee* handingmet heul
    bum*
    ThesmileIhaveinsi
    demymaskf adesand
    thespi
    nningstar
    tsallov
    eragai
    nthi
    stime
    atagreaterf
    orce
    Sipho:
    *fl
    i
    ppi
    ngt
    hepage*andt
    hisi
    smom
    anddad
    Me:ahhhh*
    Iscr
    eam hol
    dingmyheadasI
    '
    m
    hav
    ingsomethi
    ngl
    ikefl
    ashbacks*
    Si
    pho:
    Nokwandawhat
    'swr
    ong?
    *gr
    abbi
    ng
    myshoul
    der
    s*
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t8~

    Idonotent irel
    yr ememberbutwhatSipho
    j
    usttoldcamef lashi
    ngt hemomentsIsaw
    thesepicturesandIknowi t
    snotmy
    i
    magi nati
    on, sodoest hismeanI'
    m
    mbalenhle?Butwhati fI'
    m not
    ?Whatifthi
    s
    i
    sn'taflashbackmay bemyi magi
    nati
    onis
    workingov erti
    meduet othi
    smbalenhl
    e
    i
    ssue?
    Si
    pho:youknowwhatI'
    mtaki
    ngyout
    othe
    hospi
    tal*
    grabbi
    nghi
    scarkey
    s*
    Ishakemyheadno
    Hi
    m:whatdoy
    oumeanno*
    wit
    haconcer
    n
    l
    ook*
    Me:
    I'
    mf i
    ne,pleaset
    akemehomesoIcan
    r
    est*st
    il
    lholdingmybuzzi
    nghead*
    Hel
    ooksatmei
    nspect
    ingsomet
    hing
    Hi
    m:okasambe(
    let
    'sgo)
    Weexitthehouse,getinhi
    scarandhe
    star
    tsthei
    gnit
    ion.It
    'ssoquietnoonei s
    sayi
    nganythi
    ng,shouldItel
    lhimt hatIt
    hink
    I'
    m hi
    ssist
    er?Yeahl etmetellhi
    m
    Me:
    *Iopenmymout
    htosaysomet
    hing*
    Nowhati fhedoesn'tbeli
    evemeandwant s
    proofasintakeoffmymask?Ineedt osee
    myf aceASAP I '
    l
    lusemyphonewhenIget
    homeohweat ehereal
    readyandi tseems
    l
    ikemom anddadar ealreadyhere,Iopen
    thecardoorandst epoutthenlookathi m,
    he'salsol
    ookingatme
    Him:pl
    easetel
    lmewhat
    'sgoi
    ngon*
    his
    voi
    ceiscari
    ngsomuchconcer
    n*
    Me:
    *taki
    ngadeepbr
    eat
    h*i
    tissomet
    hing
    I
    'm notsureofy
    etbutt
    omor
    rowI
    '
    llt
    ell
    youI
    pr
    omi se.
    Hi
    m:*noddi
    ng*okt
    extmewheny
    ouf
    ini
    sh
    upi
    ncourtI
    'l
    lcomefet
    chy
    ou.
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    l,goodni
    ght
    Hi
    m:goodni
    ght
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Icloset hecardoorandst epawayashe
    drivesof f,Imakemywayt othehouse, get
    i
    nt hencl oset hedoorandl eanoni t.It ake
    adeepbr eat
    hasmyt hought sr unwi ld,why
    doIneedconf ir
    mat ionifI'm mbal enhl eor
    notcauseev eryt
    hingi scl ear,whatIt hought
    wasacoi nci
    dencei snotacoi ncidence, MJ
    saidmyey esspar klembal enhl e'
    sey esal so
    spar kl
    e..HoldUpf r eezei fmbal enhlei s
    repor t
    edasami ssi ngper sont hatmeansI
    AM mi ssing,
    ifthosepar ent sIsawont hat
    album ar emypar ent sthenWHOTHEFUCK
    AM ISTAYI
    NGWITH?
    ??DidSboand
    Vuy
    iswasteal
    measi
    nkidnapped?
    IneedanswersbutIal
    soneedtogett
    he
    hel
    loutofhere.Mypar
    e..
    ImeanSboand
    Vuyiswaappearfr
    om t
    helounge
    Vuyi
    :
    IthoughtIheardthedoorcl
    osing,
    why
    ar
    eyoustandingthere?ar
    ey ouok?
    Me:Whoarey
    ou?*
    Iaskwi
    thsomuch
    aut
    hor
    it
    y*
    Theylookateachot
    herconf
    usedand
    shocked.
    ~
    °
    MJ°

    SohammerandLenhl
    earepr
    ett
    yti
    ght
    j
    udgi
    ngbythewayofal
    wayshangi
    ngout
    .I
    am atmyst udyl ookingataf il
    ewi th
    hammer 'sinformat i
    onIalreadyknowt oo
    muchabouthi m butIj ustwantt obeext ra
    sur eifIdi dn'tmi ssany t
    hing,Iflipthepage
    andont hisnewpaget here'shisphot owhy
    woul dSphei ncludehi spictur
    ecauseI
    alreadykn. .
    .waithi seyes..t
    heyl ookexact l
    y
    l
    ikel enhl es..
    .couldLenhl ebehammer 'slost
    sister?didshel iet omeaboutt hemask?
    Whywoul dshehi deherreal i
    dent i
    tyfrom
    thewor l
    d, didsher unawayf r
    om home? did
    theyabuseher ?I'l
    lhavetoaskheral lthese
    quest ionst omor row.Icl
    oset hef il
    ethengo
    straightt obed, sor ryIwon'tbathshameI 'm
    toot ir
    ed.
    ~

    Wednesday

    "
    YahehIwor
    khar
    dev
    erymot
    herf
    ucken
    dayyehyehyeahy eah,IworkhardIwor
    k
    har
    rrdever
    yday"myr ingtonedi
    stur
    bsmy
    sl
    eep,If
    li
    pandt akeit,i
    tsdad//
    Me:
    mmmh
    Hi
    m: uthimmmh? usalel
    eMJ?usi
    boni
    le
    i
    skhathi?
    (you'
    resayingmmmh? you'
    resti
    ll
    sl
    eepingMJ? haveyouseentheti
    me? )I
    l
    ookatmyphonescr een
    Me:
    i
    t'
    s2mi
    nut
    esbef
    oremyal
    arm goesof
    f
    Him:angibuzanga,ngbuzeukut husiboni
    le
    yi
    nisikhathi?awususelesosishwapha
    sakhoembhedeni uyol
    ungiselelaukuya
    emsebenzi n.(
    Idi
    dn'task,
    Iaskedi fyouhave
    seenthet i
    me? nowgety ourflatassoff
    fr
    om thebedandgogetr eadyf orwork)
    Whyme?
    whyl
    ord
    Me:
    i
    sthatwhyy
    oucal
    l
    ed?
    *Isaywi
    th
    atti
    tudecausedI'
    m pissedatthefactt
    hat
    heruinedmy2mi nsleep*(butIi
    mmediatel
    y
    regrett
    alki
    ngli
    kethat)
    Him:ngi
    zokukhahl
    elalali
    ngakhany ikhona
    i
    langangobausumileamasendeal '
    hlaza
    okuthukhul
    umenami kanjal
    o!!
    (I'
    l
    lkickyou
    wherethesundoesn'tshinecausey ou've
    grownball
    stotalktomel ikethat!
    !)
    Me:
    ngy
    axol
    i
    sa(
    I'
    m sor
    ry)
    Him:nxx,yourmothersaidImusttel
    lyou
    andy ourbrot
    herthatyoumustbeher eon
    Fri
    daynightforthefamil
    ydinner
    ,tel
    lyour
    brot
    her
    Me:
    ok/
    /.
    Hehangsupt j
    ot hi
    sol dmanI'
    m suremom
    sai
    d"tel
    lthem t
    opl easecome".
    .any
    wayI
    swi
    tchoffthealarm andgetr
    eadyforcour
    t
    I
    '
    llpassont
    hemessaget
    okhay
    alat
    er.
    ~
    Lenhleis7mi nut
    esl ateIwouldsayitisher
    habitbutIwouldn'tknowsi nceIonlygot
    herelastweek,myf atherhas3lawf i
    rms
    hereinJo'burgmeandkhay awerewor ki
    ng
    atMkhi ze&sonsi
    nt erpriseandmydear
    fat
    herthoughtitwoul dbegreattoseparate
    us,
    Khay astayedther eandIcameher e.
    .
    Okitbeen15mi nut
    esandst il
    lLenhleisnot
    showingupI'
    vebeentryi
    ngt ocallherbut
    herphonetakesmest r
    aighttovoicemail
    andyesofcourseIhavehernumber ,Iev
    en
    cal
    ledattheoffi
    cetoaskifmay beshe
    passedbytheretogetsomet hi
    ngbutnope
    shedidn'
    t.OkIguessi'
    m goinginalone.
    .
    Aftersomedamngood5hour sincourtI
    dri
    v etohammer 'shouse,si
    nceIcouldn't
    getanswer scauseLenhlewasabsentI 'l
    l
    havetogett hem from hi
    m, Icannotwait
    fortomorrow.Iarriveathi
    sapar t
    mentand
    knockafteraf ewsecondsheopenst he
    doorandwej ustlookateachother.
    Me:
    mayIcomei
    n?*
    pul
    l
    ingast
    rai
    ghtf
    ace*
    Hi
    m:sur
    e,comei
    n(maki
    ngawayf
    orme)
    Hel
    eadsmet
    othel
    oungeandwesi
    t.
    Me:
    thenamei
    sMJ*
    ext
    endi
    ngmyhand*
    Him:Si
    pho*
    ext
    endi
    nghi
    shandandwe
    shake*
    Me:
    I'
    m her
    eaboutLenhl
    e
    Hi
    m:l
    e..
    .ohNokwanda
    Me:
    yeah
    Hi
    m:whatabouther
    ?
    Me:
    you'
    rel
    ooki
    ngf
    ory
    oursi
    sterr
    ight
    ?
    Hi
    m:howd.
    ..
    Me:y
    ou'
    retheheirt
    othet
    hroneoft
    heBant
    u
    Ki
    ngdom ever
    yoneknowsyou
    Hi
    m:ohy
    eahuhm t
    oanswery
    ouy
    esI
    '
    m
    l
    ooki
    ngf
    ormysi
    ster
    Me:
    whathappenedt
    oher
    ?
    Hi
    m:shewaski
    dnapped.
    Oki
    tisof
    fi
    cial
    ,Iam conf
    used
    Me:whatdoy
    out
    hinkaboutLenhl
    e?.
    .(
    I'
    m
    st
    il
    lpul
    li
    ngmyst
    rai
    ghtface)
    Hi
    m:what
    'st
    her
    etot
    hink?*
    conf
    used*
    Me:
    don'
    tyout
    hinkshe'
    syoursi
    ster
    ?
    Hi
    m:fir
    stti
    meIsawheri
    thoughtshewas
    si
    nceshehassomanysimi
    lar
    iti
    eswit
    h
    mbalenhl
    ebu.
    .
    Me:
    mbal
    enhl
    e??
    *rai
    singmyey
    ebr
    ow*
    Hi
    m:mysi
    ster
    Me:Lenhl
    eint
    roducedhersel
    fasMbal
    enhl
    e
    butsoontookthatbackandsai
    dNokwanda
    Hi
    m:*mixt
    ureofconf
    usi
    onandshock
    f
    aci
    al*whatareyout
    ryi
    ngt
    osayman?
    Me:whatmadey
    out
    hinkLenhl
    eisnoty
    our
    si
    ster
    ?
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*herey
    es,
    theydonotspar
    kle
    Me:youdoknowt
    hatshewear
    scont
    act
    l
    ensesri
    ght?
    Hi
    sey
    espopout
    Me:
    Ioncesawherr
    eal
    eyesandt
    hey
    spar
    kle
    Hequi
    ckl
    yst
    andsupbr
    eat
    hingheav
    y
    Him:ifshe'
    smbalenhlewhywouldshehi
    de
    herselff
    rom ev
    eryone,f
    rom me?
    Me:Idon'
    tknowmaybet
    heki
    dnapper
    s
    f
    orcehertowearamask
    Him:butI'
    m herbrot
    her, whenwear ealone
    shecouldjusttel
    lme,whywoul dsher etur
    n
    toherkidnapperseveryday?al
    lofthis
    doesn'tmakesense* r
    ubbinghisheadi n
    fr
    ustrati
    on*
    Me:l
    et'
    sgoovertoherhomeandget
    answer
    s.(
    Iknowt hatt
    hishasnothi
    ngtodo
    wit
    hmebutI'm curi
    ousandIalsoneed
    answer
    s)
    Him:sheal
    readywenthome?shewas
    supposetotextmeaft
    ershe'
    sdonei
    ncour
    t?
    Me:shedi
    dn'
    tshowupatcour
    toratwor
    kat
    al
    l
    Him:
    *shocked*what
    ?thatisunl
    ikehershe
    l
    ovesherjobshewouldn'tmissitev
    enif
    she'
    ssick.
    OkI'
    m worri
    ed,
    Istandupandweexi
    thi
    s
    apart
    ment.Hedri
    vestoLenhl
    eswhi
    l
    eI
    dri
    vebehi
    ndhim.
    .
    Weknockatthedoorandwaitforafew
    minut
    esbutnooneisopeningthegod
    damndoor,hammertakesouthisphone
    anddi
    alLenhleandi
    ttakeshi
    m str
    aightt
    o
    voi
    cemail
    .
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    mjustgonnabr
    eakt
    hisdoor
    .
    Hepushest
    hedoorandi
    topensohitisnot
    l
    ocked,
    wegeti
    nsi
    deandwearegreetedby
    Lenhl
    e'
    sbr
    okenphoneont
    hef
    loor
    .
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t9~

    °
    Nokwanda°
    Ihavenoi deawher eIam butt hi
    splace
    doesn'tl
    ookl i
    kethepl aceIcal l"
    home",this
    placeiscreepyandsmel lyandmi naI'mtied
    onachai r,myheadi sinsomuchpai n,my
    eyesareheav y.Ihearf ootstepscoming
    towardsther oom I'
    ml ockedi nIquickl
    y
    shutmyey espretendingtobest il
    l
    unconscious,footstepsent ertheroom.
    "
    She'
    sst
    il
    loutof
    fit
    ?Ar
    eyousur
    eshe'
    sst
    il
    l
    al
    i
    ve?
    "-soundsl
    i
    kev
    uyi
    swa.
    If
    eelhandst
    ouchi
    ngmyneckchecki
    ngf
    or
    apul
    se.
    "
    Yeahshe'
    sal
    i
    ve"
    -soundsl
    i
    keSbo
    Vuyi
    :
    good,nowremindmewho'st
    hat
    doct
    orwhohelpeduser
    asehermemory
    l
    astti
    mecauseweneedhim
    Sbo:
    DrMcKenzi
    e
    Vuyi
    :weneedhi
    scont
    acts,
    weshoul
    dgoto
    hi
    sworkpl
    acemaybehesti
    l
    lwor
    ksther
    e
    Sbo:
    l
    et'
    sgett
    oitr
    ightaway
    .
    Ihearfootst
    epswal kingf
    ur t
    herawayast he
    doorcloses,Islowlyopenmyey es,sot
    hey
    erasedmymemor yandthey'r
    egoi ngtodo
    i
    tagain,ahhht hispai
    nfulheadisn'thel
    ping,
    sot hi
    siswhathappened
    #
    Me:whoar
    eyou?
    *Iaskedwi
    thsomuch
    aut
    hor
    it
    y*
    Theylookedateachot
    herconf
    usedand
    shocked.
    Vuyi:
    whatar
    eyoutal
    ki
    ngaboutpumpki
    n?
    (Shesai
    dthatwal
    ki
    ngtowar
    dsme)
    Me:you!
    !bot
    hofyou,y
    ouaren'
    tmyr
    eal
    par
    entsareyou?*
    tearyey
    es*
    Theirshocknessandsi
    l
    entconfi
    rmedi
    t,I
    tookoutmyphonet ocall
    Sipho.
    Sbo:
    whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng?
    Me:
    cal
    l
    ingmybr
    other
    Vuyiswaqui
    ckl
    ysnatchedmyphoneand
    thr
    ewi tont
    hefl
    oor,Il
    ookedati
    tand
    walkedbacksl
    owly
    ,Ithenqui
    ckl
    ytur
    nedto
    thedoorasIopenedi tsomethinghitme
    hardont heheadIthinkitwasav asecause
    Iheaditbr eakasi
    tmadecont actwithmy
    head..
    .Istumbledbacktryi
    ngtoholdont o
    somethingasmyey esweregetti
    ngheav i
    er,
    withi
    naf ewsecondsi twasli
    ghtsout.
    #
    Ithenwokeuphere.Godi
    fyoucanhearme
    ri
    ghtnow,pl
    easehelpme.

    #NARRATED#
    AfterSiphoandMJl efttheNdlovu
    householdt heywenttheirseparateways,
    MJwasf rustrat
    edwi t
    ht hi
    ssudden
    disappearanceofLenhl ecausehedi dn'
    t
    knowwher etoev enstartl
    ookingforher.
    Ont heotherhandSi phodr ov
    est r
    aight
    home, nothi
    sapar tment,
    homei tt
    ookhim
    thewhol eni
    ghtt oarri
    vether
    e.Whenhegot
    therehewast iredashellbuthewent
    strai
    ghttothepal aceandfoundhispar
    ents
    hav i
    ngbreakfast.
    DKi
    ng:
    thelonglostsonf
    inall
    y
    r
    emember
    edt hathehasparents
    DQueen:aimarnmusa.(
    Shestoodupand
    embr
    acedherson)what'
    sthematt
    er?You
    l
    ooktr
    oubled.
    Siphosigheddeeply,t
    ookaseatthent ol
    d
    hisparentseveryt
    hingstar
    ti
    ngfrom thefir
    st
    dayhemetNokwandat i
    llt
    heeventthatjust
    tookplace,bythetimehewasf i
    nishedhis
    mot herwascryinghealsowasget t
    ing
    emot i
    onal.
    Sipho:
    whatki
    ndofbrotheram I?
    I'
    m
    supposetopr
    otectherbutIkeepfai
    l
    ingher
    *
    sobs*Ifai
    ledtopr
    otectherthefi
    rstt
    ime
    t
    henIwasgi v
    enanotherchance,
    Ialso
    r
    uinedi
    t*buryi
    nghi
    sheadonhi shands*
    TheKing:comeonsonst opblaming
    your
    self
    ,stopmoppingaroundweshould
    usethi
    slittl
    einf
    ormati
    onyou'
    v egiv
    enus
    andstar
    tl ooki
    ngforher
    .
    Si
    pho:
    butwher
    ewi
    l
    lwest
    art
    ?
    DKi ng:wegobackt othehousewhereyour
    sisterwas,welookforcl
    ues,
    askthe
    neighbor ssomequesti
    onsandyousaidshe
    hasadr i
    verri
    ght?wemustfi
    ndthedri
    ver
    toomay behe'l
    lbehel
    pful
    .Weshouldleave
    ri
    ghtaway
    DQueen:
    *wipi
    nghertears*nomusalookat
    mypoorsonhelooksti
    redheshoul
    dr esta
    l
    it
    tl
    ebitf
    ir
    st
    Si
    pho:nomom I
    '
    llr
    estaf
    terIhav
    efoundmy
    si
    ster
    DQueen:
    eatsomef
    oodandgor
    est
    Si
    pho:
    bu.
    ..
    DQueen: SiphosenkosiMthembueaty our
    foodandgor estandatthemomentI '
    ll
    go
    toNcami andaskhert oconsultwi
    ththe
    ancestorstopr otectmysunflower(she
    saidthatandst oodupwal ki
    ngout,t
    heki ng
    sawthathi swifewast ry
    ingtobestrong
    butshewasf ail
    ingdismall
    y)
    DKing:
    youhear
    dyourmot
    herchampso
    hur
    ryupnow.
    Siphoat
    eal i
    ttl
    ebi
    tandwentt ohissleeping
    chamber,
    themomenthi sheadtouchedt he
    pil
    lowhedozedoff.WhentheKingsawt hat
    hewasallalonehecal
    ledoneofhi s
    contact
    sandaskedt hem t
    of i
    ndsome
    i
    nformationaboutNokwandaNdl ovu,
    goto
    heraddressandasksneighborsaboutthe
    whereaboutsofnokwanda'sdri
    verbecause
    hefeelsli
    kethi
    sdri
    verknowsal otandhe
    canhelpthem fi
    ndhisdaughter.

    *
    Meanwhi
    l
    e
    Sboandv uyiwereabouttomakeacal l
    ,
    theywenttothehospit
    alwhereDr
    McKenzieusedtowor kunfort
    unatel
    yfor
    them henomor eworkedtherebutthey
    managedt ofi
    ndhisnumber sitwashim
    theywereabouttocall
    ..
    aft
    erfewr i
    ngshe
    answered//
    Dr
    :MrMcKenzi
    espeaki
    nghel
    l
    o
    Sbo:
    DrMcKenzi
    ethi
    sisSbongi
    seni
    Ndl
    ovu
    Dr
    :whatdoy
    ouwant
    ?
    Sbo:
    comeonol
    dfr
    iendwhyar
    eyousocol
    d?
    Dr:*
    chuckl
    ingbitt
    erl
    y*Iam notyour
    fr
    iend,
    neverwasnev erwi
    llbesoI '
    m goi
    ng
    toaskonel astt
    ime,whatdoy ouwant?
    Sbo:
    samef
    avory
    oudi
    dforus5y
    ear
    sago
    Dr:
    fav
    or?Youblackmailedmeand
    thr
    eat
    enedtoruinmymar ri
    agetherewas
    nofavori
    nvol
    ved,sokindlydel
    etemy
    umberandneverevercallmeagai n//
    DrMcKenzi
    edr
    oppedt
    hecal
    lwi
    thanger
    Hi
    m:nxxsomepeopleli
    ketor
    aisey
    our
    bl
    oodsugarf
    ornoreason
    MrMkhi
    ze:whoisget
    ti
    ngony
    ourner
    ves
    t
    oday
    ?*chuckl
    i
    ng*
    MrMkhi
    zeandMrMcKenzi
    ear
    ecousi
    nsor
    somet hingli
    kethat
    ,thei
    rfatherswere
    brotherstheyhadthesamemot herbut
    dif
    ferentfather
    swhichexplainswhyMr
    Mkhi ze&McKenzi ehavediffer
    ent
    surnames.
    Dr
    :sbongi
    seni
    MrM:thatbi
    mbot
    hatal
    mostr
    uinedy
    our
    mar
    ri
    age?
    Dr
    :t
    heoneandonl
    y
    MrM:
    sowhatdoeshewantt
    hist
    ime?
    Dr
    :samet
    hingIdi
    d5y
    ear
    sago
    MrM: nxxhemustgot
    ohel l
    especi
    all
    y
    si
    nceweknowhewasbl ackmail
    i
    ngy ouf
    or
    not
    hing
    Dr
    :yahnehandIerasedani
    nnocentchi
    l
    d's
    memoryfornot
    hing.
    MrM:
    wasi
    tthei
    rchi
    l
    d?
    Dr
    :no
    MrM:
    sowhosechi
    l
    dwasi
    t?
    Dr:Idon'
    tknowbafo,
    Idi
    dn'
    tev
    enseeher
    facetheyhi
    ditwi
    thamask
    MrM chockedonhi
    swi
    ne
    MrM:
    whati
    ssbongi
    seni
    '
    slastname?
    Dr
    :Ndl
    ovuwhy
    ?
    MrM: t
    her
    e'sayoungladywhoworksat
    oneofmyfir
    mswhoi salwayswear
    inga
    maskandherlastnameisNdlov
    u
    Dr
    :*shocked*descr
    ibeherf
    orme
    MrM: what
    'st
    heretodescri
    bewhenI'
    ve
    neverseenherface?Butshehascar
    amel
    ski
    nt oneandlongdreadl
    ocks.
    Dr
    :baf
    othat
    'sher
    ,whywoul
    dsbowantme
    t
    oer
    asehermemor
    yagai
    n?
    MrM:may beshewasori sgetti
    ngher
    memoryback,yousai dt
    hisyoungladyi
    sn'
    t
    Sbo'
    sdaughterdidtheyabducther?Doyou
    per
    hapsthinkherli
    feisi
    ndanger ?
    Dr:t
    her
    e'sonl
    yonewaytofindoutandi
    f
    sheisi
    ndangert
    hanthi
    sismychanceto
    ri
    ghtmywrongs,
    weneedy oursonKhay
    a
    totr
    acethi
    snumber
    .
    .
    .
    .
    ~Inser
    t10~

    °
    MJ°
    Me,
    khay
    a,dadanduncl
    eSthear
    eonour
    wayt
    ohammer '
    sapar
    tmentwearer
    idi
    ngi
    n
    dif
    ferentcarsI'
    m wit
    hkhayaanddadi swith
    uncle,t
    urnsoutuncleSthecouldleadust o
    Lenhleohwel lmaybenot"us"butlenhle'
    s
    familyitj
    ustthatIr
    eall
    ywanttohel p.
    Khay
    a:I
    '
    vegott
    helocat
    ionmanbutthey
    're
    i
    nsomerest
    aur
    antandtheyhav
    en'
    tmov e.
    Me:
    okokwejustneedtofol
    lowt
    hem and
    t
    hey
    'l
    ll
    eadusri
    ghttoLenhle
    Hi
    m:us?
    ??
    Me:
    yeskhay
    aus,
    I'
    m gonnagowi
    tht
    hem
    Him:tel
    lmethisman, i
    fLenhl
    e'
    sfaceturn
    outtobereal
    l
    yt er
    ri
    blewouldyousti
    l
    lli
    ke
    her?
    Me:
    yes*
    Isaywi
    thoutahesi
    tat
    ion*
    Hi
    m:wowy
    our
    eal
    l
    yli
    keher
    .
    Wear
    ri
    veandIpackbehi
    nddadandwe
    makeourwayi
    nsi
    deaf
    terknocki
    ngof
    cour
    se.
    Si
    pho:
    pleasecomei
    n*maki
    ngwayf
    orus*
    Wewal
    kinsi
    deandheadt
    othel
    ounge.
    DKi
    ng:
    eveni
    nggent
    lemen
    Dad:
    eveni
    ngr
    oyal
    s
    DQueen:Idon'
    tmeantobeforwar
    dbutmy
    sonher
    esaidyouhavesomethi
    ngthat
    coul
    dhelpusfi
    ndourdaught
    er.
    MrMcKenzie(
    uncleSthe)narr
    atedt
    he
    whol
    est or
    ywhichlef
    tthekingandSipho
    f
    ummi ng.
    DKing:
    *st
    andi
    ngup*y
    ouer
    asedmy
    daught
    er'
    smemory
    ?
    Dr:I
    'm deepl
    ysor
    ryIdi
    dn'
    tknowshewas
    yourdaughter
    .
    DQueen:thati
    snotthepoi
    ntMrMcKenzie
    evenifi
    twasn'tmydaughtert
    hef
    actst
    il
    l
    remainsyouerasedsomeone'
    smemoryfor
    yourowngood.
    St
    hel
    ookeddowni
    nshame
    DQueen: butwhoarewet oholdthat
    agai
    nstyou,you'r
    eheretori
    ghtyour
    wrongsplusitwasn'
    treal
    lyyouwho
    ki
    dnappedher .Whoisthi
    scouplethatst
    ole
    mysunflowerandhowdowef indthem?
    Dr
    :Vuy
    iswaandSbongi
    seni
    Ndl
    ovu,
    I.
    .
    DKi
    ng&Queen:
    WHAT?
    ?!!
    !*shocked*
    Dr
    :doy
    ouknowt
    hem?
    Queen:ohweknowthem v er
    ywel
    l
    ,why
    di
    dn'tIt
    hinkoft
    hem sooner
    Ki
    ng:don'
    tbeatyour
    sel
    fupnowmylove,
    we
    wi
    llf
    indher*si
    tt
    ingdownandbr
    ushi
    nghis
    wi
    fe'
    sshoul
    der
    *cont
    inue*
    looki
    ngatSt
    he*
    St
    he:
    asI'
    vesai
    dt hatt
    heycal
    ledmewear
    e
    j
    ustwai
    ti
    ngforkhayatotr
    acethem.
    Khay a:alr
    eadydoneuncle,t
    heyareinsome
    restaurantjustout
    sideJo'
    burgandIask
    thaty ouall
    owust ocomewi t
    hy ou*eyei
    ng
    me*
    TheKi
    ngt
    houghtf
    orawhi
    l
    e
    Ki
    ng:sur
    eandIsuggestwegetgoi
    ngr
    ight
    away
    .
    .
    #Meani
    whi
    l
    e
    Sboandv uyi
    weresti
    llattherestaur
    ant
    tr
    yingt
    of i
    gureoutanewpl ansinceDr
    McKenzieisofft
    hepictur
    e.
    Sbo:
    whatar
    ewegoi
    ngt
    odonow?We'
    ve
    beencal
    l
    ingal
    lourcont
    act
    sandnot
    hing.
    Vuy
    i:weneedt
    ofi
    ndawaytoeraseher
    memory,
    weneedtof
    indawi
    tchdoctor
    .
    Sbo:
    anewwi
    tchdoct
    or?
    Vuyi
    :
    yescausewecan'
    tgobacktot
    he
    Ki
    ngdom,wecan'
    tri
    skbei
    ngcaught
    .
    Sbo:butiti
    slat
    enow,Isuggestwegoback
    tothehotel
    ,r
    est
    ,wakeupearlyandcheck
    uponNokwabef oregoi
    ngbackt oJo'
    bur
    g
    tosearchforawit
    chdoctor
    .
    Vuyi
    :
    soundsl i
    keaplan,
    letmecall
    theboys
    andtel
    lthem t
    okeepaney eonherwe'
    ll
    comeint hemorni
    ng.
    Shecall
    edtheboysandt
    oldt
    hem af
    tert
    hat
    theypai
    dandlef
    t.
    Assoonast
    heyl
    eftKhay
    asawt
    hatonhi
    s
    l
    apt
    op
    Khay
    a:t
    heyar
    emov
    ing
    MJ:
    good,
    you'
    l
    lbemynav
    igat
    ort
    hen
    Khay
    a:okay
    MJ:
    cal
    ldadandt
    ell
    them t
    ofol
    l
    owus
    Khay
    a:sur
    e*hedi
    aledhi
    sdad*
    dad
    MrM:
    sur
    e
    Khay
    a:t
    hey
    'r
    emov
    ingf
    oll
    owourl
    ead
    MrM:
    Rogert
    hat*
    droppi
    ngt
    hecal
    l
    *
    ~
    Man1:
    *si
    nging*whent
    hecatget
    soutt
    he
    mi
    ceplays
    Man2:
    whati
    swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ou
    Man3:
    you'
    rest
    il
    laski
    ng?I
    t'
    sobv
    ioust
    hathe
    hasl
    osthi
    smi
    nd
    Man1:nxI
    '
    m notcrazy
    ,Ij
    ustgotof
    fthe
    phonecal
    lwi
    ththebosslady
    Man3:
    and?
    ?
    Man1: t
    heywon'tbecomi ngbackt
    ocheck
    onmi ssie,meaningwehavethewhol
    e
    ni
    ghtt oplaywithher*
    let
    ti
    ngouta
    mischievoussmi l
    e*
    Man2:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    andhav
    eyouseent
    hatbody
    Man3:damnbrahit
    stodi
    efor,
    butwhatt
    he
    bosseschanget
    heirmi
    ndsandshowup?
    Man2: ithoughtabout hatsohereisthe
    plan..
    .wewi l
    ltaketurns,whil
    e1isi nther
    e
    *pointi
    ngar oom wher etheyarekeeping
    her*2ofuswi llguar
    dout si
    desot hatifwe
    spotsomel i
    ghtcomi ngherewe'll
    letthe
    dudei nsideknow.
    Man2:
    cleanl
    et'
    sjustwai
    t1hourt
    henwe
    ar
    echowingsomepu* *y
    *smi
    li
    ng*
    ~
    DKi
    ng:
    theyar
    einahot
    el?
    ?
    Theywereall
    outoft
    heircar
    sst
    andi
    ngi
    n
    theent
    ranceoft
    hehotel
    Dr
    :itl
    ooksl
    i
    kei
    t
    MrM:khayahav
    eyouf
    oundt
    hei
    rroom
    number?
    Khay
    a:gi
    vemeasec
    Si
    pho:butwhybringheri
    na
    hot
    el?
    *confused*
    DKi
    ng:
    whatwr
    ongwi
    tht
    hat
    ?
    Sipho:
    theycan'
    thaveherl
    ockeduphere
    becauseinahoteli
    tissoeasytoescape,
    l
    ikewhent hecl
    eani
    ngservi
    cecomest odo
    thei
    rdailyroundchecks,t
    hepat i
    ofrom
    thereshecouldseeaper sonacrossthe
    otherroomsandy el
    lforhelp,
    Ijustdon'
    t
    thi
    nkshe' shere.
    Khay
    a:gott
    her
    oom number
    .
    MJ:I
    '
    m sidi
    ngwi t
    hha.
    .erSi
    phobutl
    etus
    t
    akeourchances.
    The6menwal kedinheadsupstr
    aight
    l
    ookingscaryli
    ketheywerewalki
    nginto
    somemenf ashi
    onshow, t
    heygoti
    nt he
    el
    evatorandpressed5noonesaidawor d
    ti
    ll
    theyarri
    vedinthe5thfl
    oor.
    Si
    pho:
    sohowdowet
    akcl
    ethi
    s?
    MJ: wai
    t.
    .khayawheny ouhackedi
    ntotheir
    phoneyousai dthatt
    heyweremaking
    var
    iouscall
    st oalotofpeopl
    ewhoy oualso
    cal
    ledandf oundouttheywereal
    ldoct
    ors
    r
    ight
    ?
    Khay
    a:y
    eahhowi
    sthatgonnahel
    p?
    MJ:
    meani
    ngt
    heyhav
    en'
    tfoundoney
    et
    Khaya:Iguesssobutther
    e'sonelastcal
    l
    theymadeIdidn'
    tgetachancetocal l
    it
    sincet
    heymov edaft
    erthatcal
    l.
    Mj :sur
    esur eIthinkIhaveaplan,
    whenwe
    gett otheirdoorallofyoust
    andonboth
    sidesoft hewallsot heywon'
    tseeyou,
    the
    momentt heysayImustcomei nwewal ki
    n
    together.
    DKing:
    whycan'
    twejustal
    lknockwhen
    t
    heyownthedoorweallwal
    kin.
    Dr
    :soundseasi
    er
    MJ:*
    sighs*themomentt heyseeyouuncl
    e
    andthekingtheywil
    lqui
    cklycl
    osethedoor
    andl
    ocki teveni
    fyouactfastandblockt
    he
    doorthecamer
    awi l
    lseeusfor
    cingourway
    i
    nsidewhichwi
    llr
    aiseredf
    lags
    DKi
    ng:
    oky
    ourpl
    ani
    tis.
    TheywalkedtotheNdlovu'
    sroom when
    theygott
    heretheydi
    dex act
    lyasMJsaid
    makingsurethydon'
    tl
    ooksuspici
    ousand
    MJknocked,aft
    erawhilevuyi
    swaopened
    thedoor.
    Vuy
    i:
    hi,
    mayIhel
    pyou?
    MJ: actuall
    yI'mtheonewhocanhel pyou,I
    beli
    evet hatyourhusbandcall
    edme
    seekingf orhel
    pearli
    er,Icoul
    dn'tt
    alkover
    thephonesi nceIwashav i
    nglunchwithmy
    wife.
    Vuyi
    :ohyeahy
    oumustbet
    hedoct
    orbut
    howdidy
    ouknowwearehere.
    Mj
    qui
    ckl
    ythoughofsomet
    hing.
    MJ: seemam Ionceer asedsomeone's
    memor yandmywi fegotreal
    lyangr
    ywi t
    h
    me,afterthecall
    withyourhusbandItext
    ed
    hi
    m aski ngforhi
    slocati
    onjusti
    ncasei
    changemymi ndcauseIreall
    yneedthe
    money .
    Vuyi
    :youdi
    dwellbychangi
    ngyourmind,
    andtr
    ustmeyourwifewon'
    tknowat hi
    ng
    pl
    easecomeon*makingawayf orhi
    m*
    SoonasMJwal kedinhegr abbedvuyiand
    placedhishandonhermout htoshuther
    upandt heothermenwal kedinandcl osed
    thedoorbehindthem,wit
    hv uyi
    swaf eeli
    ng
    l
    ikeshe'sgoingtopeeonher selfasher
    eyesmetKi ngMusa'sfuri
    ousf ace
    Sbo:honeywho'satt
    h..
    .(
    hedr
    opst
    hecupof
    teahe'shol
    ding)
    ~
    °
    Nokwanda°

    Vuy iswaandSbohav ebeengoneforhours


    nowandI '
    m starvi
    ngmay bet
    heychanged
    theirmi ndsabouterasi
    ngmymemor yand
    deci dedthatIshouldstar
    vetodeath.Thi
    s
    maski ssuffocat
    ingmenowcauseI '
    ve
    nev erwor nitt
    hislong.
    ..
    someoneis
    unlockingt hedoorsothisisi
    tmymemor y
    willbeer asedforthesecondti
    me,some
    skinnydudewal kin
    Hi
    m:y
    ou'
    renotasl
    eepy
    etgood
    Hewal
    kstowardsmewithami schiev
    ous
    smi
    lewhi
    chleavesmeshaking,
    heunties
    meandti
    emyhandstogetherinfront
    .
    Hi
    m:st
    andup
    Ihav
    enoener
    gyi
    nmebutIst
    andup,
    he
    pul
    lsmetohim If
    eelhi
    smemberonmy
    abdomen,It
    ryt
    obackupal it
    tl
    ebi
    tbuthe
    hol
    dsmyhandswi t
    hhislef
    thandf
    irml
    y
    andtheot
    hermakesitwaytomybreasts
    whoahwhat'
    shedoing,
    hepushesmetil
    lI
    hi
    tthewal
    l.
    Hi
    m: Iwasadvisedtonott
    akeof
    fy our
    maskifIdon'
    twanttopukeandsinceI
    wantoenjoyoursessi
    onIwon'
    ttakeitof
    f.
    Heki ssesmyneckIf eelsickt hemoment
    hisli
    psl andsoni t,
    Iwi l
    lnotbecomea
    vict
    im ofr apenotnownotev ersoIbr ing
    mykneehi ghhi
    tti
    nghi m ont heballshe
    groansashef alldown, Iqui cklyrushout
    thedoorandl ockhimi nsidet hi
    splacei s
    creepyitlookslikea3abondenr oom, Ir
    ush
    towar dthef r
    ontdoorbutf reezeasIsee
    2menout sidethewi ndowhowwi llIgetout
    now,theguyi nsidest artshout ing" guy s
    opensup"whi l
    ebangi ngt hedoorcat ching
    these2guy s'sat t
    entionIqui cklyst andnext
    tothedoorsot hatwhent heyownt hedoor
    theywon'tseemesi ncei tlooksl ikei t
    opensinwar dly.Theyunl ockt hedoorand
    rushinsi
    deandIr ushout si delockingt he
    doorandt aket hekey swi t
    hmej usti ncase
    thegateislocked, whenIgett othegat eI
    fi
    ddlewiththekey ssincei tislockedi fonly
    Iknewhowt odr iveIwoul dbet akingt his
    carri
    ghtnowaf t
    erami nut eitopens, Idr op
    thekeysandIr ushoutr unni ng,Irunt illI
    reachwhatl ooksl i
    keamai nroadt her eare
    nohousesher eitisaf orest ,
    ohofI '
    venev er
    beeninaf orestbef oreandIcan' tgoback
    soI'l
    lkeepwal kingint hisr oadIt akeof fmy
    maskt ocatchmybr eat handt heai rfeels
    sogoodagai nstmyf ace.
    Ikeepwalki
    ngforabout20mi nut
    esIthinkI
    l
    ookbackandseecarl ightsfrom af
    arI
    star
    tpani
    ckingwhatifit
    st hem?Whydi dI
    l
    eavethosekeysthere?Ilookattheforest
    fr
    om bothsi
    desoft heroad.
    :
    godGui
    deme.
    (Iputonmymask)
    Iruni
    nsidetheforestatleasttherei
    safull
    moon,Irunforapr ett
    ylongt i
    meandst i
    ll
    thi
    sfor
    estdoesn'tleadmeany wher
    eIstop
    togetabreatherIreall
    yf eel
    weakIdon't
    thi
    nkIcankeepr unning.
    Ihearsomethingorsomeonewal ki
    ng
    towardsmef r
    om thebackohgodhav ethey
    foundme.Islowlytur
    naroundcause
    seri
    ouslymyfeetsarebur
    ningIcan'trun
    anymor eandmyey eswereneverreadyto
    seethisthi
    nginfr
    ontofme.
    .
    .
    ~Inser
    t11~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Sbost
    oodst
    il
    lfr
    ight
    enedbyt
    heKi
    ng'
    slook.
    DKi
    ng:
    Siphosear
    cht
    hispl
    ace.
    Si
    phosearchedever
    ywher
    eev
    enthe
    bat
    hroom butdi
    dn'
    tfi
    ndhi
    ssi
    ster
    .
    Si
    pho:
    she'
    snother
    e
    DKing:
    whereismydaughtery
    ou
    scumbags!
    ?*heshout
    ed*
    MJ: I
    '
    m goingtoremovemyhandandi fyou
    dar
    escr eam orpul
    lanyst
    untsbel
    i
    ev emeI
    wil
    lsendy outoyourmaker
    *hewhisper
    ed
    tovuyi
    'sear*
    MJsl
    owl
    yremov
    edhi
    shandf
    rom v
    uyi
    '
    s
    mout
    h.
    Vuyi
    :y
    ou'
    l
    lneverf
    indher
    *wal
    ki
    ngt
    othe
    sof
    aandtookaseat*
    DKing:
    okt
    hen,
    Iguesswewi
    l
    ldot
    hist
    he
    har
    dway
    Vuyi
    :
    youcanevenki
    llmei
    fyouwantbutI
    '
    m
    nott
    ell
    i
    ngyouanyt
    hing
    DKing:
    dearhusbanddoy
    ouwantt
    odi
    ein
    herpl
    ace??
    Sboswal
    l
    owedhi
    ssal
    i
    va
    Sbo:
    li
    keshesai d,
    wewill
    nottel
    lyou
    anyt
    hing.
    *tr
    yingtosayt
    hatf
    ir
    ml ybutf
    ail
    s
    too*
    DKing:
    *si
    ghs*khay
    acal
    lthatl
    astnumber
    andfi
    ndoutwhoitwas.
    Khay
    anodsanddi
    alt
    henumberwi
    tht
    he
    phoneonl
    oudspeaker
    .
    Femal
    evoi
    ce:
    hel
    l
    o
    Khay
    a:goodev
    eni
    ngmam
    Her
    :ev
    eni
    ng,
    whoi
    sthi
    s?
    Khaya:mynamei skhaya,I
    '
    m cal
    l
    ing
    regar
    dingSbongi
    seniNdlovu
    Her
    :okwhataboutmybr
    other
    ?
    Khaya:
    I'
    vebeentry
    ingtoreachhim buthe
    doesn'
    tpickup,
    doy ouperhapsknow
    whereheis?
    Her
    :ohheisawayonbusi
    ness,
    hedoesn'
    t
    t
    akecal
    lsheonlymakest
    hem
    Khay
    a:okt
    hanky
    ou.
    Hehangsupt
    henSiphoandMJremove
    t
    hei
    rhandsonSboandvuyi
    'smout
    hs.
    TheKi
    ngpacesupanddownt
    hinki
    ngof
    whattodobecausehecan'
    tdoanythi
    ngto
    them si
    nceonlyt
    heyknowwherehis
    daughteri
    s,hi
    sphoneri
    ngsdi
    stur
    binghi
    s
    thi
    nki
    ng
    DKi
    ng:
    speak
    Guy:mykingwegotbab'zondiandhe
    confi
    rmedt hatt
    heyoungladyisyour
    daughterbuthehasnoideawheresheis,
    he
    saysheshowedupt hismorningandnoone
    washome.
    DKi
    ng:
    thanks/
    /hehangsup
    DKing:
    boy
    slookf
    orany
    thi
    ngt
    hatcoul
    d
    hel
    pus.
    Theguyswalkt
    othebedr
    oom aft
    era
    minutet
    heycomeoutwit
    hkhayahol
    ding
    vuyi
    '
    sphone.
    Khay
    a:shehasbeenmaki
    ngcal
    l
    stoone
    speci
    fi
    cnumber
    .
    Vuy
    ist
    art
    edbei
    nguneasy
    MrM: whatarey
    ouwai t
    ingf
    or??cal
    l
    i
    t.
    ..
    (t
    heydidtherout
    ineagai
    n,
    cl
    osingthei
    r
    mouths)
    Khay
    acal
    l
    sthenumber
    Man1:
    bosslady
    ?Haveyouchangedy
    our
    mi
    nd?Areyoucomi
    ngtocheckupher?
    Khayaj
    ustlookedatal
    lthemencausehe
    hadnoideawhattosay,
    MrM snatchedt
    he
    phonef
    rom khaya
    MrM: t
    hisi
    snotthebossl
    adyit
    'sSboI
    '
    m
    cal
    l
    ingtochecki
    fthegi
    rli
    sfi
    ne
    Man1:
    shobozzashe'
    sst
    il
    lfi
    ne
    MrM:
    okwewi
    l
    lseey
    out
    omor
    row
    Man1:
    shobozza/
    /
    MrM hangsupandgivekhayat
    hephone
    t
    henkhayastar
    tsdoi
    nghisthi
    ng
    DKing:
    hurryupplease*
    paci
    ngupand
    down*thequeencall
    s
    DKi
    ng:honeyshoul
    dn'
    tyoubeget
    ti
    ngr
    eady
    f
    orbed?
    DQueen:
    hav
    eyouf
    oundher
    ?*br
    eaki
    ng
    voi
    ce*
    DKing:noty
    etbutwewi
    l
    l,nowpl
    easehav
    e
    somerest
    DQueen:
    MusaIwil
    lnotr
    estt
    il
    lyoucome
    backwi
    thmydaught
    er
    DKi
    ng:
    okmyl
    oveI
    '
    llf
    indherIpr
    omi
    se/
    /
    Khaya:
    foundt
    hem,
    it45mi
    nut
    esawayf
    rom
    her
    e
    DKi
    ng:
    l
    et'
    sgobr
    ingt
    hem al
    ong.
    Theyexit
    edthehotelanddroveof
    finf
    ull
    speed.Theygott
    ot heabondenpl
    acei
    n35
    minutes.
    DKing:
    MrM andMrMcKenzi
    epl
    easekeep
    aneyeont
    hesetwo
    Dr
    :sur
    e
    The4menwal kedinsi
    detheopengat e,
    MJ
    steppedonsomet hi
    ngher emovedhisfoot
    andr eal
    izedi
    tkeyshepickedthem up,
    whent heygottothedooritwaslockedMJ
    usedt hekeyshegottoopenup
    Si
    pho:
    wher
    edi
    dyougett
    hose?
    MJ:
    Ipi
    ckedt
    hem upbyt
    hegat
    e
    Theygotinandfound3ment ryi
    ngtoopen
    thebackdoorwhoquickl
    ytur
    nedwhenthey
    fel
    tpresenceofsomeonebehindthem.
    Man2:
    whot
    hef
    uckar
    eyou?
    Si
    phogav
    ethatguyameanpunch
    Sipho:
    woahI'
    vebeenwait
    ingtodot
    hatto
    someoneforthel
    ast6hoursnowwher
    eis
    she?
    Man3:
    who?
    Sipho:
    youknowexact
    lywhoI
    '
    mtal
    ki
    ng
    about!
    !
    DKi
    ng:
    cal
    m downson,
    gocheckthatroom
    may
    beshe'
    sther
    e*poi
    nti
    ngatthecloses
    r
    oom*
    Siphowalkedt
    ot hatr
    oom andfoundno
    onebuthesmelledher,hewal
    kedf ur
    iousas
    everhetookouthisgunandpointeditto
    the3guys
    Si
    pho:Wher
    ethef
    uckismysi
    ster?
    ?!!
    !Ican
    smel
    lheral
    lov
    ert
    hispl
    acewherei
    sshe? ?
    Man1st
    art
    edshaki
    ngl
    i
    kel
    i
    ter
    all
    yshaki
    ng
    ashesawt
    hegunbei
    ngpoi
    ntedatt
    hem.
    Man1pl easedon'
    tkil
    l us,t
    hegi r
    lescaped
    whenI .
    ..
    .(
    hetal
    ksfastbutqui ckl
    yshut
    himselfupasherealizethatheisaboutto
    saysomet hi
    ngthatcouldhav ehim
    kil
    led)
    ..
    .butt
    obadf orhim causeMJsaw
    that
    MJ:
    wheny
    ouwhat
    ???
    Man1:
    not
    hing
    Si
    phoshoot
    shi
    slegandhescr
    eamsi
    npai
    n
    Si
    pho:
    SPEAK!
    !
    Man1:
    *cry
    ing*whenIuhhwhenIwast
    ryi
    ng
    t
    oto..
    .t
    o
    DKi
    ng:
    speaky
    our
    ubbi
    sh
    Man1:
    ra.
    .peher
    ,I'
    m sor
    ..
    .
    Hedi
    dn'
    tfi
    nishhi
    ssent
    encebecauset
    he
    momentSiphohear
    drapehepull
    edthe
    t
    ri
    gger.MJfel
    tthemonst
    eri
    nsidehim
    waki
    ngup,Khayaqui
    ckl
    ypul
    ledhim out
    Khay
    a:MJdon'
    tyoudar
    e
    MJ:didyouhearwhathesai
    d*speaki
    ng
    t
    hroughhist
    eeth*
    Khay
    a:y
    eahandhei
    sdeadsocal
    m down.
    MJbreathedi
    nandoutt
    ryi
    ngt
    ocal
    m
    hi
    mselfdown
    Khaya:
    youknowt hatt
    hisgi
    rlmi
    ghtnot
    evenbeint
    erest
    edinyou
    MJ:
    Idonotcar
    e.
    .
    I
    nsi
    de.
    DKi
    ng:
    howl
    onghasshebeengone?
    Man3:
    about25mi
    nut
    eago
    Sipho:
    shemusthav
    er antheopposi
    teway
    totheonewecamefrom orel
    sewewould
    havesawher
    .
    DKing:Isuggestthatwegetgoi
    ngright
    awayshecouldn'thavegot
    tentofar
    .
    Si
    pho:
    whataboutt
    hese2?
    DKing:wehav
    e3car
    swi
    thussot
    heyar
    e
    comingwit
    hus.
    Si
    pho:l
    et'
    sgo,i
    fyoudar
    etryr
    unningawayI
    won'
    thesi
    tat
    etoputabull
    ett
    hroughyour
    dumbheads.
    Theyal
    lwal
    kedoutMJandKhay
    afol
    l
    owed.
    Dr
    :di
    dyouf
    indher
    ?
    Sipho:no,sheescapedabout25minut
    es
    agosol et'
    sgetbacktothemainr
    oadand
    keepdr i
    vi
    ngstrai
    ghtI'
    m pr
    ett
    ysureshe
    ain'
    tthatfar
    .
    Byt hefuriousf
    acesSthewasseeingin
    fr
    ontofhi m hedidnotevenwanttoask
    aboutt hegunshottheyhear
    d.Every
    onegot
    i
    nt hecar sthe2guyswerewithSi
    phowho
    wasl eadingtheway.
    ~
    Theydr
    ovef
    oraboutanhouranddeci
    ded
    tost
    op.
    Sipho:
    shecoul
    dn'
    thavemadeitonf ootal
    l
    thisway,
    areyousur
    ewedi dn'
    tpassheron
    ourwaytothatcr
    eepyhouse.
    MJ:wedi
    dn'
    t,
    Ithi
    nkmay
    beshe'
    sint
    he
    f
    orest
    DKi
    ng:
    mbal
    enhl
    e??I
    nthef
    orest
    ??Noway
    MJ:judgi
    ngbythesi
    tuat
    ionshewasi
    n,i
    t
    coul
    dbepossibl
    e.
    Khay
    a:buti
    tissohuge,
    ifwegoi
    nitwewi
    l
    l
    getl
    ost
    .
    Si
    pho:Idon'
    tcar
    e,meandMJwi
    l
    ltaket
    he
    ri
    ghtsideoft
    hefor
    est
    MrM:me,
    Stheandy
    ourf
    atherwi
    l
    ltaket
    he
    l
    eft
    Khaya:
    andIshallr
    emai
    nbehi
    ndandwat
    ch
    these4hool
    igans.
    MJjustrol
    ledhisey
    escausehecoul
    dsee
    t
    hathisbrotheri
    sdreadi
    ngt
    ogointhe
    f
    orest
    .
    MJ:
    okl
    et'
    sgo
    Khaya:whenyougetl
    ostcal
    lmeI
    '
    llj
    ust
    hootthecar
    .
    The5menwentt hei
    rsepar
    atewaysand
    khay
    acheckedift
    he4hooli
    gansweretied
    upfi
    rml
    ythenwenttohisbr
    other
    'scarand
    l
    ockedal
    lthedoor
    s.
    ~
    °
    Nokwanda°

    Iknowani malspr ett


    ywellIhavereadso
    manybooksbasedonwi l
    danimals,noneof
    them hasmer cy.Infrontofmest andsan
    unusualjaguar,
    didy ouhearmea#JAGUAR
    thi
    sonehasami xtureofblackandwhite
    furwhichmakesi tunusual
    .
    Itwalkscloserasi tdrool
    sandIkeep
    walkingbackwar dsbackwardssl owl
    ybut
    soonhi tat reeIlookupt hinkingoftry
    ingto
    cli
    mbt het ree,andqui ckl
    yer asethat
    memor yasIr emembert hatjaguarsare
    perfectcli
    mber s.Itkeepswal ki
    ngcloseras
    Ilookev erywher ebutit,myv isi
    onstart
    getti
    ngbl urry,am Idizzy?Iuntiemyhands
    usingmyt eetht henIholdmyheadnopeI '
    m
    notdizzy ,myv i
    si ongetwor seandIf eel
    getti
    ngoutofai rIqui cklytakeof fmymask,
    mybr eat hinggetbackst onor mal butmy
    visi
    oni sst art
    ingt ogetdar kIkeepbl inking
    butthatdoesn' thel p,Ithent akeof fmy
    contactlenses, blinktwiceandmyv isiongo
    backt onor mal oht hankgodIt houghtIwas
    goingbl i
    nd.Thej aguarr oarsremi ndingme
    ofitpresence, Ijustdr opdownt omyknees
    causet herei snot hi
    ngIcandoandi tis4
    stepsawayf r
    om me, Itakeabr eathand
    l
    ookst raightt oi tscaryy ell
    owey es...whoah
    whatishappeni ng?Iseet het rees
    disappear i
    ngandasi fI'
    m zoomi ngi nt o
    somet hingi nfull speedandt hemost
    amazingt hinghappensIseeev erything
    thathashappeni nmyl i
    fesinceIwasa
    chil
    d,Iseemywhol ef amilyupt owhenI
    waski dnappedbyt hose2dev ilswhenIj ust
    cameoutofschool theyliedt omeandsai d
    mypar entssentthem t ocomef et
    chme
    whenIgoti nsidethecart heypl acedacl ot h
    aroundmynose, theydr uggedmeand
    erasedmymemor y,aftert hatev entIcome
    backt omysenseswi t
    ht hej aguaronest ep
    awayf r
    om meIqui cklyst andupt ryi
    ngt o
    walkbackbuthi tthesamet reeagai n,Ilook
    atthisjaguarf oragoodmi nuteandwai tf or
    i
    tt odev ourmebuti tjustbowsbef or eme
    l
    eav i
    ngmei nshock, aft
    ert hati twalksaway
    butst opsandl ookbackatme, I'
    m st i
    ll
    standingst i
    llshockedt hatIhav en'tpeed
    my self,i
    tcomesbackandgoesar oundme
    andpushmyl egsohi twant smet of ol
    low
    i
    tIpi ckupmymaskandf ollowt heunusual
    j
    aguar .
    .
    Let
    'sdothi
    sagai
    nshall
    we?I '
    m pri
    ncess
    Mbalenhl
    eoft
    heBantuKingdom daught
    er
    ofKingMusaandQueenNomusaMt hembu.
    .
    .
    .
    .
    ~Inser
    t12~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Itfeel
    sgoodt obemy sel
    fagai
    nnowal lI
    needistobei nmyf ami l
    y'
    sarmst ofeel
    compl et
    eifIdon'tdi
    ebecauseI '
    m super
    hungryandweakI '
    m eventhi
    nkingof
    hoppingont hi
    sjaguar'sbackbutIrather
    dieofhungerthanbybei ngdevouredbyi t
    s
    l
    ongshar pteet h.Iwonderwher eit'
    staking
    mei tisal mostdawnnowmeani ngIwal ked
    thewhol enight,Iknowt hatIremember
    everythingaboutmenowbutaboutmyf ace
    I'
    m stil
    l notsur ebecauseIhav enoi deaif
    theydidany thi
    ngt oitwhi l
    eIwasoutofi t
    whent heydr uggedmet hatdayt hey
    kidnappedmebuti fIdon'tdieI'
    llf
    indout ,
    noai Ican'ttakei tanymor eIdr optot he
    groundandl ett hetearsflowdownt he
    j
    aguarpushesmybackobv iouslywant i
    ng
    met ocont i
    nuewal ki
    ng
    Me:noMrjaguarI
    'm weak,
    tir
    ed,
    hungryI
    appr
    eci
    ateyouguidi
    ngmei nthi
    sforestt
    he
    whol
    enightbutl
    etmedi e.
    I
    tdoesn'
    tgiv
    eupitkeepspushingme,it
    wal
    ksaroundandstandinf
    rontofmeand
    l
    ookdownatmeIr etur
    nthelookitt
    urns
    andl ookatsomet hingwhi leIf ollowi tgaze,
    Iseehousesnotf arfrom her ewear eatt he
    othersideoft hefor estIt hink, Iweakl y
    standupandcont inuef ollowi ngt hej aguar
    Okt hepl anistoknockont hef irsthouseI
    comeacr ossIkeepwal kingt illI
    'm
    compl etelyoutoft hef orest .Wowt his
    placeisamazi ngitissobeaut i
    ful andi t
    smel l
    sfreshIwantt osayi tisav il
    lagedue
    toitsgreenl andbutt hehousesar ehuge
    andbeaut i
    full
    ikethosehousesy ouf i
    ndin
    townshipssoIguessi t'sav il
    lageshi pI '
    ve
    namedi tandI 'm notchangi ngi t
    , thejaguar
    continueswal king
    Me:woahwoahbuddywedon'twantto
    fr
    eakpeopl
    eoutIt
    hinkyoushoul
    dretur
    n
    homeyouknowforestt
    oyourfamil
    y.
    It
    hinkI
    '
    vecompl
    etel
    ylostmymi
    nd,
    whyam
    Italki
    ngt oawi l
    dani mal asifi
    tcanhearor
    understandme?Andt opr ovemycr azi
    ness
    i
    tcont i
    nueswal king, whatwi llpeoplethi
    nk
    whent heyseemewal kingwi t
    haj aguar.I
    walkint hefi
    rsthouseIcomeacr ossas
    plannedImakeashor tpr ay
    erbef oreI
    knock.Ifthesepeopl eagr eetohel pme
    howwi llIexplai
    nt hej agurI'm withsinceit
    doesn'tlookli
    keiti sgoi ngany wher e?An
    oldwomenbutnott oool dopenst hedoor
    wear i
    ngagown.
    Women:
    mor
    ningchi
    l
    d
    Me:
    mor
    ningmam
    Her:
    howmayIhel
    pyouandwhyar
    eyouso
    di
    rt
    y?
    Il
    ookatmy
    selfandbackatherandgi
    veher
    aweaksmi
    le.
    Her:youlooksoweakandt iredmychi l
    d,
    comei n*shemakesawayf ormet he
    j
    aguarwal ksinfi
    rstIqui
    ckl
    ylookatthelady
    andsheal solooksatmewithoutsayinga
    word,Ialsowalkinwhyisn'
    tshefreaked
    outcauset hefi
    rstti
    meIsawt hi
    sjaguarI
    thoughtIwasgonnadi e*
    If
    oll
    owtheladytothel
    oungeandfi
    ndt
    he
    j
    aguaral
    readysi
    tt
    edonthecouch.
    Her:t
    akeaseatmychildI'
    ll
    gowar m upl
    ast
    ni
    ght'
    sfoodcauseIdon'tt
    hinkbr
    eakfast
    wil
    lbeenough.
    Me:ohhIwouldn'
    twantt
    orui
    nyour
    beaut
    if
    ulcouchesmam
    Her:
    nomychildi
    t'
    sokt
    akeaseatpl
    easeI
    wil
    lbebacknownow.
    Shedi
    sappear
    stot
    heki
    tchenandIt
    akea
    seatnexttothej aguarIonl
    yreal i
    zethatI
    havemymaskonmyhandmeani ngthe
    l
    adysawmyf aceOhGodwai tshedi dn't
    l
    ookdisgustednordi dshegiv emeacr eepy
    l
    ook,thejaguarlay si
    theadonmyt hi
    ghs
    andIbrushit,it
    sf uri
    ssosof tandwar m.
    Theladycomesbackaf t
    eraf ewmi nutes
    withaplatefulloffoodandjui ce.
    Her :
    herei
    tisal
    lyour
    snoneedto
    drool*smi
    li
    ng*(she'
    sbeaut
    if
    ulwi
    thherdar
    k
    skin)
    Me:
    *wi
    pingmymout
    h*t
    hanks.
    It
    aketheplat
    ef r
    om herandstar
    t
    murder
    ingthefoodwithherl
    ookingatme
    wi
    thasmi l
    e.
    Her
    :sl
    owdownchi
    l
    d,Idi
    dn'
    tgety
    ourname
    Me:
    *Iswal
    l
    owf
    ir
    st*i
    t'
    smbal
    enhl
    emam
    Her:
    nicet
    omeetyoumbalenhleandpl
    ease
    st
    opthemam cal
    l
    ingj
    ustcallmemahor
    mam'Zuma.
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lcal
    lyoumah.
    Shenodswi
    thasmileIcont
    inueeat
    ing,Ibi
    t
    offt
    hemeatandst
    retchmyhandoutt othe
    j
    aguar'
    smouth.
    Me:
    her
    ehav
    esomemeat
    .
    I
    tjustlookt
    heot herway,Iguessiti
    snot
    hungryormaybei tdoesnoteatchicken
    meat,whenIbringmyheadupIf i
    nd
    mam' Zumalookingatmewei rdl
    y
    Her
    :whoar
    eyout
    alki
    ngt
    o?
    Ilookatherconf
    useddoesn'tsheseet hi
    s
    j
    aguarnexttome, Il
    ookatthejaguarthen
    backatherthenbackatthejaguaragain
    thenher
    Her
    :whati
    sitt
    haty
    oukeepl
    ooki
    ngatnext
    t
    oyou?
    Ohgodshedoesn' tseet hejaguaram I
    goingcr azy?Becauset hati
    sthebest
    explanation,
    howcanIseesomet hi
    ngthat
    someoneel secannotsee? ?Iam
    absolutelydelusi
    onal butwhatdoIsayto
    heruhht hi
    nkmbal enhlethi
    nk
    Me:
    uhm I
    '
    m sor
    ryf
    oract
    ingwei
    rdIj
    ust
    mi
    ssmydogsomuch.
    Her:
    ohyoupoorthi
    ng,Ihav
    etosayt
    hough
    I
    'v
    eneverevenyouaroundher
    e
    Me:
    I'
    mfr
    om Jo'
    bur
    gmah
    Her
    :sof
    ar,
    howdi
    dyougether
    e?
    Iplacetheplat
    eont hetabl
    eanddri
    nk
    somej uicet
    hent el
    lhert
    hewholest
    orywell
    exceptthefactthatI
    'mroyal
    tyandf
    orthe
    j
    aguarpar
    t,byt
    het
    imeI
    '
    m doneshei
    sin
    t
    ears
    Her:ohmydearchildyou'
    vewentthr
    ough
    somuchpai nI'
    m gl
    adthattheydi
    dn'
    trape
    youorelseyouwouldbebrokeninsi
    de*she
    wipshertear
    s*waithereI
    'l
    lbeback.
    Shestandsupandgothr
    oughthepassage
    andcomesbackwithafl
    owereddressand
    towel
    s
    Her
    :f
    oll
    owme
    Ist
    andupandfoll
    owherassheenter
    sthe
    bat
    hroom andy
    esthej
    aguari
    salsohere.
    Her
    :t
    akeabat
    hsocanr
    est
    .
    Shewal
    ksoutandthejaguarj
    ustl
    aysdown
    onthef
    loorookyt
    hisi
    sgoingtobethe
    mostweir
    dbathI'
    veeverhadi
    n5y ear
    s.
    .
    Ifeelsof reshbutI 'mt i
    red,Iwalktowar ds
    thebat hroom mi rrorwithmyey esclosedI
    breathinandoutt henslowlyopenmyey es
    ohgodt hey .
    .they .
    .theyli
    edt omemyf acei s
    compl etelyflawl ess, whenIreturnhomeI
    don'tknowhowbutwhenIdoIhopeI 'l
    lget
    answer sonwhyIwaski dnappedany way
    thedressi sabi ttightaroundmyhi psbuti t
    i
    sv erycomf ortable, Iwalkoutwi ththe
    j
    aguarbackt ot hel oungeandIf i
    nd
    mam' Zumasi tt
    ingwi t
    hahandsomedar k
    manwi thni celycut t
    edhairandaper fectly
    tri
    mmedbear diti struewhent heysayt he
    mosthandsomemani sdarkbutIhav et o
    sayhei st rulyhandsomebuthehasnot hi ng
    onMJ, MJi sawal kinggodandt hesui t
    doeswonder sIt ellyou,hisskinisalso
    fl
    awlessj ustt hathei sdark..
    Mah:
    ohy
    ouar
    edone,
    meetmysonSanel
    e
    healsostaysi
    nJo'bur
    gmay behewil
    lhel
    p
    youbutaft
    eryouhaverest
    edsonthi
    sis
    mbalenhl
    ethegir
    lIwastel
    li
    ngyouabout.
    Me:
    nicet
    omeety
    ou
    Theguyisgi
    vi
    ngmealookIcan'
    texpl
    ain
    whichi
    smakingmeshy
    Hi
    m:wowy
    oul
    ookbeaut
    if
    ul
    Me:
    *Il
    ookathi
    m*t
    hanks
    Hesnapoutofhi
    sthought
    Hi
    m:ahhsor
    ryni
    cet
    omeety
    out
    oo
    Ismi
    l
    e
    Hi
    m:ohl
    ordt
    akemenow
    Me:
    uhh?
    Hi
    m:ohnot
    hing*
    hequi
    ckl
    ysay
    s*
    Mah:
    comechi
    l
    dletmeshowy
    ouy
    ourr
    oom.
    Ifoll
    owherbutnoti
    cethatthejaguarisnot
    nexttomeIlookbackoht hereitisi
    tis
    l
    ookingstr
    aightatSanel
    ebutqui ckl
    y
    foll
    owsmet otheroom.
    Me:thankyousomuchmahf
    ory
    our
    hospi
    tal
    it
    y*smi
    li
    ng*
    Her
    :noneedt
    othankme*
    smi
    l
    ingback*
    Shewal ksoutcl osingthedoorbehi ndherI
    l
    ookar oundthisr oom itisdi
    fferentfrom
    theoneIwasusi ngt hi
    sonel ooksal i
    ve,t
    he
    j
    aguarcl i
    mbsont hebedIf ir
    stpr ayand
    thankthelordforl eadi
    ngmet ot hi
    shouse
    andf orgui
    dingmeal lalongandal sof or
    sendingthisjaguart oguidemecauseI
    refusetobeli
    ev ethatI'
    m crazy,themoment
    myheadhi tt
    hepi ll
    owIgost raighttodeep
    sleep.
    .
    Meanwhi
    l
    e
    Themenwer ebackt
    oget
    heratthemain
    roadfrust
    rat
    edwhenthekinggotthecal
    l
    from t
    hequeen.
    Si
    pho:
    dadanswery
    ourphone.
    DKi
    ng:
    i
    t'
    syourmot
    herwhatwi
    l
    lIsayt
    oher
    ?
    Si
    pho:
    ify
    oudonotansweri
    tshewi
    l
    lbe
    moreworr
    ied.
    Theki
    ngdeci
    det
    oansweri
    t/
    /
    Hi
    m:myqueen
    Her
    :mor
    ningl
    ovecomebacknow
    Hi
    m:butIhav
    en'
    tfoundourpr
    incess
    Her:
    Iknow,Ncami
    call
    edandsai
    dtotell
    youtocomebackbecausewher
    eversheis
    sheissaf
    enowcomeback.
    Hi
    m:okI
    '
    llseey
    oui
    naf
    ewhour
    s//
    Ki
    ng:
    wear
    egoi
    ngnowl
    et'
    sgo
    :
    *shaki
    nghi
    shead*I
    '
    m notl
    eav
    ingwi
    thout
    mysist
    er
    DKing:Ncami
    sai
    dwher
    every
    oursi
    steri
    s
    sheissafe
    Sipho:
    okl
    et'
    sgobutIwi
    l
    lnotst
    opl
    ooki
    ng
    forher
    .
    Khay
    a:who'
    sNcami
    ?
    DKing:Iwi
    l
    lexpl
    ainwhenwe'
    vear
    ri
    vedi
    n
    Jo'
    burg.
    Every
    onegetont
    hev
    ehi
    clesandheadback
    totheci
    ty.

    ~i
    nser
    t13~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Sanel
    e:y
    our
    eal
    l
    yar
    ebeaut
    if
    ul*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Ijustnodandsmile,
    may bethi
    sisthe8th
    ti
    mehe' st
    elli
    ngmet hatsi
    nceIwokeup
    andIwokeup30mi nutesagoitisst
    art
    ing
    toannoymesi nceheisgivi
    ngmeal ook
    thatismakingmeuncomf ort
    able.
    Hi
    m:whatar
    eyoudoi
    ngwi
    thy
    ourhand?
    ?
    Iqui
    ckl
    yst
    opbrushi
    ngt
    hejaguar
    'sheadas
    i
    twasrest
    ingi
    tonmythi
    ghs
    Me:
    sor
    ryIj
    ustmi
    ssmydog
    Him:
    ohyeahmom t
    oldmeabouty
    ourdog,
    youmustt
    rul
    ymi
    ssit
    Me:
    Ido
    Hi
    m:whati
    tsname?
    Me:
    wha.
    .whatnow?
    Hi
    m:y
    ourdog?Whati
    tsname?
    Yeyeuhm ei
    shwhatwasIthi
    nki
    ngl
    yi
    ng
    aboutadogIhav
    eneverownedadoginmy
    l
    ifeIdon'
    tev
    enknowdogsname.
    Hi
    m:uhhso?
    Me:
    uhm hernamei
    suhm MJ
    Hi
    m:cool
    name,
    whatdoesi
    tst
    andsf
    or?
    What
    'swi
    tht
    het
    hir
    ddegr
    eequest
    ions?
    Me:
    Mbal
    enhl
    ejuni
    or*
    Isaysmi
    l
    ing*
    Hi
    m:Ibetshe'
    sador
    abl
    easy
    ou*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Di
    dhej
    usti
    mpl
    i
    edt
    hatIl
    ookl
    i
    keadog?
    Me:
    yourmom sai
    dyoucanhel
    p
    Hi
    m:yeahIcanhel
    pyout
    rackdowny
    our
    f
    amil
    y,Iknowaguywhoknowsaguy
    Me:soundscompli
    cat
    ed,
    whenwi
    l
    lyou
    r
    eturntotheci
    ty?
    Hi
    m: err*
    looki
    ngathiswri
    stwat
    ch*I
    'l
    lbe
    l
    eavingexactl
    yat17h00whichi
    s23
    minutesawayfrom now.
    Me:coolyoucanj
    ustdr
    opmeof
    fata
    f
    ri
    end'shouse.
    Him:okIcoul
    ddot hat
    ,tel
    lmeaboutthi
    s
    fr
    iendwhat'
    shername?Howl onghaveyou
    knownher?May beIknowherwhoknows,
    si
    nceIhappentoknowal otofpeopl
    e
    *r
    aisi
    nghiseyebrows,
    smili
    ng*
    Me:er
    rfi
    rstofshe'
    sa"
    He"*hissmil
    e
    dr
    opped*hisnameisSi
    phosenkosi
    Him:ow*soundi
    ngdisappoint
    ed*waitI
    '
    ve
    hear
    dthatnamebefore,what'
    shi
    slast
    name?
    Me:
    Mthembu
    Hi
    m:t
    hepr
    ince?*
    Inod*wel
    lIdoknowhi
    m
    j
    ustt
    hatI
    '
    venev
    erseenhi
    m.
    Wecont i
    nuetal
    ki
    ngorshouldIsayhe
    conti
    nuetal
    ki
    ngsincehewast heonedoi
    ng
    theyappi
    ngabouthimsel
    fthedudehasa
    bigegoguys
    ~
    Me:
    thankyousomuchmahandt
    hanky
    ou
    f
    ort
    heclot
    hes*smi
    li
    ng*
    Mah:
    pleasedokeepi
    ntouchmychi
    l
    d
    *
    huggi
    ngme*
    Me:
    Iwil
    l*br
    eaki
    ngthehug*goodby
    emah
    mayyouhavealongl
    if
    e.
    Itur
    nandasI'
    m aboutt
    oopent
    hebackseat
    doorsanel
    est
    opsme
    Hi
    m:pl
    easet
    aket
    hef
    rontsi
    t.
    Isi
    ghandopent
    hef
    rontseatdoor
    ,bef
    oreI
    coul
    devengetinthejaguarjumpsint hen
    j
    umpt ot
    hebackseat ,okIneedt ostop
    cal
    li
    nghi
    m orher"thejaguar"butIdon't
    knowanythi
    ngwheni tcomest onami ng
    ani
    mals,
    howaboutIgi veitthe"dog'
    s"
    name?Yeahfrom nowonI 'l
    lcal
    litMJ
    Sanel
    e:y
    ouar
    enotat
    alkerar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m not
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    venot
    iced
    Thenwhyask
    Me:ohIneedy ourmom'snumber,doy
    ou
    haveapieceofpaperandapenheresoy ou
    cancall
    itoutf
    orme, I
    '
    llj
    ustkeept
    hepiece
    ofpaperti
    ll
    Ibuyaphone.
    Him:Idonotknowitbyheadorheart*
    he
    reachesforhi
    spocketnottaki
    nghi
    seyes
    offfrom t
    heroad*
    heretakemybusi
    ness
    cardandcall
    meonceyou'
    veboughta
    phoneI'
    l
    lthenfor
    war
    dmom' snumbert
    o
    you.
    It
    akethecar
    dandjustl
    ookoutt
    hewi
    ndow,
    af
    terafewminut
    es.
    ..
    Hi
    m:whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatme?
    Me:*conf
    used*what
    ?*Iaskt
    urni
    ngmy
    headtolookathi
    m*
    Him:
    you'
    vebeenst
    ari
    ngatmesi
    nceIgav
    e
    yout
    hecard?
    What
    ?
    Me:whatmakesy
    out
    hinkI
    '
    vebeenst
    ari
    ng
    aty
    ou?
    Him:causeIcanfeel
    eyesonmesi nceyou
    aret
    heonlyoneinthecar,obv
    iousl
    yit
    'syou
    *smi
    li
    ngshowinghisteet
    h*
    Iqui
    cklyl
    ookatthebackandy
    erpMJi
    s
    star
    ingri
    ghtathi
    m
    Me:uhhhehm (MJi
    spl
    aci
    ngmei
    nav
    ery
    awkwardposi
    ti
    on)
    Hi
    m:*chuckl
    i
    ng*letmemakethi
    ngseasi
    er
    f
    oryou,canItakeyououtt
    odi
    nner
    t
    omorrownight?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tthi
    nkSi
    phowoul
    dappr
    ove
    Hi
    m:yousai
    dheisyourfr
    iendsoy
    oudon'
    t
    r
    eal
    lyneedhi
    sopi
    nion.
    Aghr emindmet oneverl
    ieagain,thethi
    ng
    i
    sgr owinguppeopl ehavealway streat
    ed
    meandmybr otherdi
    ffer
    entjustbecause
    wear eroy al
    ty.Iremembert hedayIwas
    youngIv isit
    edsomeki dthatwasinmy
    classsowewer eplayi
    ngwi t
    hat ennisbal
    l,
    I
    accidentall
    ybr okethewindowandt he
    mot hercameoutf umingswear i
    ngather
    ki
    d,whenshest artedhitt
    ingherIqui ckly
    j
    umpedi nfrontofherandt ol
    dheri twas
    mewhobr oket hewi ndowI '
    mt heonewho
    deservetobepuni shed,themot herjust
    smiledandsai d" mychildIcouldnev er
    punishapr incess,donotwor ryaboutt he
    windowi twasol dandi thadcr acksitwas
    goingtobr eakany ti
    me"t hati
    swhyIl ied
    causeIhat especi alt
    reatmentsjust
    becauseI '
    m apr i
    ncess.
    Sanel
    e:heyMbal
    i
    Me:
    mmmh*
    snappi
    ngoutofmyt
    hought
    s*
    Him:whydoesSipho'
    sopi
    nionmat
    ter
    ?Ishe
    yourboyf
    ri
    end?
    Gr
    eat
    Me:
    yeshei
    smyboy
    fri
    end
    Hi
    m:ow,
    doy
    oul
    ovehi
    m?
    Me:
    alot*smil
    i
    ng*(
    andt
    hati
    snotal
    i
    eIl
    ove
    mybrot
    her)
    Him:
    howsurear
    eyout
    hathehasn'
    tfounda
    newgir
    lyet
    ?
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Him:mom toldmeaboutthekidnappingand
    ever
    ythi
    ng,basi
    cal
    lyy
    ouhav en'tseenhim
    for5years,
    areyouevensurehewas
    l
    ookingforyouorwasheinsomegi r
    l'
    sskir
    t?
    Me:
    whyar
    eyouaski
    ngmeal
    loft
    his?
    Him:
    I'
    mj ustl
    ooki
    ngoutfory
    ou,
    I'
    m aguy
    andIknowhowguy st
    hinkandr
    oll
    .
    Heisworki
    ngonmynerves,Ij
    ustzi
    pmy
    moutht
    heenti
    reri
    dewellIdi
    dunzipi
    twhen
    Iwasgi
    vi
    nghim Si
    pho'
    saddress.
    Aft
    er3hoursIt
    hinkofri
    dinghepar
    ks
    out
    sidet
    heapart
    mentandi tl
    ooksl
    ike
    Si
    phoisnotasl
    eepyet.
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuch*
    smi
    l
    ingathi
    m*
    Him:ar
    eyousureyouwanttogoin?Icoul
    d
    bookyoutosomehotelandyoucanstay
    ther
    eti
    llwefi
    ndyourf
    ami l
    y.
    Thisguythough,maybeIshoul
    dj usttel
    l
    himthetruthnowIwi l
    lnol
    ongerbei nhis
    spaceforhimtot r
    eatmedif
    ferent,what'
    s
    theworstthatcoul
    dhappen?
    Me:
    Ihav
    esomet
    hingt
    otel
    lyou.
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    mli
    steni
    ng*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    Iam Mbal
    enhl
    eMt
    hembu
    Hi
    sey
    espoppedout
    Hi
    m:t
    heuhm t
    hemi
    ssi
    ngpr
    incess?
    Me:
    yesSi
    phoi
    smybr
    other
    Him:
    wow,butwhyl
    i
    eandsayhei
    syour
    boyf
    ri
    end?
    Me:l
    ongstoryandagainthanky
    ou,Iwi
    l
    lcal
    l
    youforyourmother
    'snumberhavea
    wonderf
    ul l
    i
    feandnight
    .
    Iopenthedoorandwai
    tforMJtogetout
    thencl
    osethedoor,
    Iwatchhi
    m dr
    iveof
    f
    Me:nowbuddyy
    ouhavetostopput
    ti
    ngme
    ont
    hespotli
    ket
    hat*
    Isaylooki
    ngatMJ*
    Iwalktot
    hedoorandinhal
    ewhi
    lecl
    osi
    ng
    myey est
    henexhal
    e,
    putonthemaskIt
    hen
    knockwit
    hMJnexttome.

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °
    I'
    mthi
    nki
    ngofr etur
    ningtothatforest
    tomor
    rowmor ningIknowncami saidMbali
    i
    ssafewher
    ev ershe'satbutIcan'tjustsi
    t
    anddonot
    hing.
    Mom:
    siphosomeonei
    satt
    hedoor
    .
    Isnapoutofmyt
    hought
    s
    Me:
    att
    hist
    ime?
    Thet
    imei
    s20h34
    Dad:
    justgoseewhoiti
    smay
    bei
    t'
    syour
    gi
    rl
    fr
    iend*smil
    ing*
    Me:
    whosai
    dIhav
    eone?*
    standi
    ngup*
    Dad:
    theny
    ouwoul
    dbeshamingthe
    Mthembusur
    name!
    .*
    shout
    ingf
    rom t
    he
    l
    ounge*
    Mcm Iopent
    hedoorandIf
    eel
    myknees
    weakenIwal
    ksl
    owl
    ytoher
    ,It
    ouchher
    mask
    Me:
    mayI
    ?*Shenods*
    Islowlytakeoffthemaskandbegr
    eet
    edby
    tearsrol
    li
    ngdownonherbeautif
    ulf
    ace
    from hersparkl
    ingeyes.
    Sheopenshermout
    htosaysomet hi
    ngbut
    Ij
    ustpul
    lhertomeandcrushherinmy
    armsastear
    salsof
    all
    offfrom myeyes,
    I
    l
    ethergoaft
    er2minutes
    Me:Il
    oveyou*thati
    swhatr
    unni
    ngi
    nmy
    headr
    ightnow*
    Her:Il
    oveyoutoo(Ihugheragai
    nIj
    ust
    can'
    tbeli
    evesheisherei
    nmyar ms)
    Her
    :ir
    ememberev
    ery
    thi
    ng*
    smi
    l
    ing*t
    he
    ndl
    ovu'
    ser
    ..
    .
    Me:
    shhhIknowcomei
    nthepar
    ent
    sar
    ein
    t
    hel
    ounge.
    Shewal
    kedi
    nsmi
    l
    ing
    Me:wai
    ther
    e,andwal
    kint
    hel
    oungewhenI
    saycomeok
    Her:
    youarepl
    anni
    ngonadr
    amat
    ic
    ent
    ranceasusual
    .
    Sher
    eallyi
    sback,
    Iwi
    pemyf
    aceandwal
    k
    i
    nthelounge.
    Mom:
    whowasatt
    hedoor?
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*mygi
    rl
    fr
    iend
    Theybot
    hlookatme
    Mom:whydi
    dn'
    tyoul
    etheri
    nsowecoul
    d
    meether
    ?
    Me:ohshei
    shereandshewi
    l
    ltakey
    our
    br
    eathawayfol
    ks
    Dad:
    theonl
    yper
    sonwhocant
    akemy
    br
    eathawayi
    syourmot
    hersonsodon'
    tbe
    sosure.
    Me:
    *smi
    rki
    ng*comebabe
    Shewalksinsl
    owlywit
    hasmi leandtear
    s
    onherfaceandmom &dadsi tupquickl
    y
    outoft
    heirbr
    eaths.Mom l
    et'
    shertearsfal
    l
    wit
    hherhandsonhermout h
    Mom:mysunfl
    ower(Mbal
    ijustr
    unt
    omom
    andmom cr
    ushesherwit
    hahug)
    Mom: ohmychi l
    d,thankyougodf or
    answeri
    ngmypr ayers*theybreakthehug
    shethenturnt
    odadwhoi salsoshedding
    tear
    sohI'vegottogetthisoncamer a)
    Dad:
    pri
    ncesskaMuzi
    Mbal
    i:
    *smiles*daddykaMbal
    i(shet
    hen
    t
    hrowherselftodad)
    .
    ~~~~
    Sanel
    earr
    ivesathi
    shouseunabl
    etost
    op
    thi
    nki
    ngofmbalenhl
    e
    Him:
    pri
    ncessornotIwi
    l
    lhav
    eyouasmy
    ownnomat t
    erwhat.
    .

    .
    ~inser
    t14~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    AtlastI'm wi
    thmyf amily,
    thefeel
    ingisout
    ofthiswor l
    d,theti
    mei s01:08am and
    everyonerefusestogot obedwehav ebeen
    catchingupall ni
    ghtandweal soplay
    eda
    game" What-
    Am- I?
    "I thasbeenfunandI
    haven'
    tseenMJeversi
    nceIwalkedi
    nher
    e
    Iwonderwherehei
    s,I
    'mti
    rednowIwantto
    sl
    eep.
    Me:
    daddy
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Dad:
    yespr
    incesswhatev
    ery
    ou
    want
    *smil
    i
    ngback*
    Mom andSi
    phol
    aughedathi
    m
    Sipho:y
    ouhav en'
    thear
    dwhatshewantand
    youarealr
    eadysay i
    ng"whateveryouwant
    "
    doy ouwanttobebankrupt?
    * l
    aughing*
    Dad:Idonotmind*pouti
    ng*pri
    ncess
    bankruptdaddyhedoesn'
    tmind.
    Me:Ibasi
    cal
    lyhavenot hi
    ng* l
    ookingdown*
    nophone,noclothesnothing,ohwellIhav
    e
    alaptopsi
    nceIlefti
    tatmyof ficethatt
    ime
    SiphocametofetchmesomayIhav e
    somemoneyf orclothesandanewphone.
    Dad:ofcour
    se,
    Iwil
    lgi
    vey
    ouoneofmy
    car
    dsinthemorni
    ng.
    Me:*
    smi
    li
    ng*t
    hanky
    ousomuch,
    wena
    Si
    phowher
    earemytekki
    es?
    ?
    Hi
    m:whatt
    ekki
    es?
    Igav
    ehi
    m adeadst
    are
    Him:owhy ourli
    mitededit
    ionki
    cksdon't
    worryyou'
    llgetthem soon(hequickl
    ytook
    outhisphoneandt ypedsomething)
    Me:cool
    ,canwegot
    osl
    eepnowI
    '
    mreal
    l
    y
    t
    ir
    ed
    Si
    pho:
    met oo*
    yawni
    ng*y
    ouwi
    l
    lusey
    our
    cr
    eepyroom
    Me:mcm I
    '
    llr
    edecor
    atei
    tmy
    sel
    f,byt
    heway
    whatdayi
    sit
    ?
    Mom:
    Sat
    urday
    Dad:havey
    ouseent
    het
    ime?I
    tsal
    ready
    Sunday.
    Me:Iprayt
    hatMrM under
    standst
    he
    si
    tuat
    ionIwasi
    nandnotfir
    eme.
    Mom: don'
    twor
    ryy
    ourj
    obissaf
    e,hesai
    d
    youcancomebackany
    time
    Me:
    uhh?Wher
    edi
    dyouseehi
    m?
    Dadnarratedthewholestor
    yforme,so
    thosecarli
    ghtsIsawwerethem?ButI
    couldn'
    tri
    skitIhadtoconti
    nuerunni
    ng.
    Dad:si
    ncemeandy ourmom havet oretur
    n
    tothekingdom whenwewakeup, wehav e
    togetanswer sfr
    om yourki
    dnappersplease
    passourt hankstoMrMkhizeandhi ssons
    andtel
    lthem t ot
    hankMrMcKenzi eforus.
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    l
    Mom:
    andy
    ouhav
    etodr
    ivedownwi
    thy
    our
    brothert
    hiscomi
    ngweekendf
    ory
    ourr
    etur
    n
    ceremony
    Me:
    sosoon
    Mom:
    yes
    Me:y
    oudoknowt hatmy21stbir
    thdayisi
    n
    l
    essthen2mont hsandyou'
    vealway s
    wantedtohostmy21stsowhydon' tyou
    combinethem?*
    raisi
    ngmyey ebr
    ow*
    Mom:*smil
    i
    ng*greatidea,
    ahhIf
    eelli
    ke
    scr
    eamingatl
    eastIhav esomet
    hing
    i
    nter
    esti
    ngtodot hesecomingweeks.
    Hersmilemadeev er
    yoneinther
    oom smil
    e,
    asI'
    m smil
    inglooki
    ngatmom Ifeel
    warmth
    onmyt hi
    ghsIquickl
    ylookdownandrel
    ief
    washesallovermybodyasIseeMJ.
    Mom:
    hei
    stheonewhogui
    dedy
    ou?
    Il
    ookatherconf
    used,
    shet
    henpoi
    ntsMJ
    wi
    thherhead
    Me:
    youcanseeher*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Mom:
    yesIcanandi
    tisa"
    He"
    Me:
    butI'
    veal
    readynamedhi
    m mbal
    enhl
    e
    j
    uni
    or*
    pouti
    ng*
    Mom:*l
    aughing*wel
    li
    fhel
    ovesi
    tyoucan
    cal
    lhi
    mt hat
    Me:
    howdoIknowhel
    ovesi
    t?
    Mom:
    you'
    l
    lknow*
    Inod*
    Sipho:
    whatoneart
    har
    eyout
    alki
    ng
    about?*
    conf
    used*
    Me:
    youcan'
    tseehi
    m?
    Si
    pho:
    him who?
    Mom:
    herj
    aguar
    Sipho:
    herWhat??!Waitt
    her
    e'saj
    aguari
    n
    here??
    *beyondshocked*
    Mom:ever
    yonei
    nourroyal
    famil
    yhasa
    j
    aguar
    ,meandyourfat
    heralsohav
    eour
    j
    aguar
    s.
    Me:
    wow, sowhycan'
    tSiphoseeMJand
    whydoesn'
    thehaveajaguar
    ?
    Mom: nooneseesy ourguidenexpectyou
    i
    tskeeperIjusthaveagifttosee
    ever
    yone'sguidensandyourbrother'
    s
    j
    aguarisalsohere,hecan'tseei
    tbecause
    hehast odosomet hi
    ngfirst
    .
    Si
    pho:
    whywasn'
    tIt
    old?
    Dad:
    Ihav
    ebeencall
    ingy
    out
    ell
    i
    ngy
    out
    o
    cometothepal
    ace.
    Si
    pho:*
    sul
    ki
    ng*Ial
    sowanttoseemyj
    aguar
    soI'
    l
    lcomethi
    sweekend.
    Wel
    lat
    leastnowIknowIai
    n'
    tcr
    azy
    .
    Si
    pho:
    wel
    lsl
    eepwel
    lpeopl
    e*di
    sappear
    ing
    t
    ohi
    sroom*
    Dad:
    *pl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thhi
    shands*baby
    Me&Mom:
    yes?
    Wel
    ookedateachot
    herandl
    aughed
    Mom:honeyIt
    oldy
    out
    oeveruse"baby
    "
    whenbothmeandMbal
    iar
    einthesame
    r
    oom.
    Dad:
    Iforgot*
    chuckl
    e*okpr
    incessmayy
    ou
    uhm sl
    eepwithus?
    Ismi
    l
    e
    Me:
    Iwoul
    dlov
    eto.
    Theysmi
    lebackwal
    ki
    ngt
    othei
    rroom whi
    l
    e
    If
    oll
    owthem.
    ————————

    Monday

    TheKi
    ngandqueenwer
    eal
    readyatt
    he
    kingdom, t
    heywerenowstandinginfrontof
    Vuy iandSbowanti
    nganswers,theygave
    them at r
    uthser
    um t
    hatt
    heygotf r
    om Mr
    McKenzi etomakethi
    ngseasier.
    DQueen:v
    uyiswawhy
    ?*sheaskedt
    hati
    na
    whi
    sperv
    oice*
    Vuyi
    :becausetheli
    fey
    ouareliv
    ingshoul
    d
    hav
    ebeenmi ne!Andyour
    uinedthi
    ngsfor
    me.
    DQueen:Musaneverl
    ovedyousowhatwas
    yourpl
    an?Giv
    ehim alovepot
    ion?
    Vuyi
    :hewouldhavel
    ovedmeifyounever
    cametothi
    skingdom,Idi
    dusealove
    pot
    ionbutneverwor
    kedbecauseofyou.
    DQueen:*shocked*al
    lthatforagoodli
    fe?
    WhataboutSbo?Howdoy outhinkhef
    eel
    s
    nowthathehashear dyousayt hat?
    Vuyi:
    aghthel
    ovepot
    iondi
    dn'
    twor
    kony
    our
    husbandbuti
    twor
    kedonhim
    Sbo:
    *shocked*y
    oudi
    dwhat
    ?!
    DQueen:
    why
    ?
    Vuy
    i:
    causeIhadt
    ogetmar
    ri
    ed
    DQueen:wher
    edoesmydaughterf
    iti
    nal
    l
    oft
    his?Whydidy
    oukidnapher?
    Vuy i
    :si
    nceIcoul dn'tgett hegoodl i
    fe
    throughtheKi ngIt ri
    edf indi
    nganot herway
    for3y earsbutnot hingwaswor kingsoI
    wentt othewi tchdoct ortofi
    ndanot herway
    andt hatti
    mey ouwer eony oursecond
    pregnancy ,
    shet ol
    dmet hatthechildyou
    wer ecarr
    y i
    ngisdest inedf orgoodt hi
    ngs
    andt oagr eatlif
    e,whenshewast oturn15
    Ihadt ochoosewhet herIhav eherkil
    ledorI
    kidnapheri fIhadherki l
    ledIwoul dhave
    gotal otofmoneyandl i
    vedagoodl i
    febutI
    fi
    guredt hatasti
    mepasst hatwouldhave
    fadedawaysoIdeci dedtokeepherf or
    ever,Sboov er
    headmespeaki ngoverthe
    phonewhi l
    epassi
    ngbyandt hreat
    enedto
    tel
    lyousoIgav ehimt hepoti
    on.
    TheQueenwasintear
    sandalsosil
    ent
    ly
    pray
    edthanksf
    orvuyi
    notdeci
    dingtoki
    ll
    heronl
    ydaught
    er.
    DKing:
    all
    thatf
    orgreed?Aren'
    tyou
    ashamedofyoursel
    f(hespokefort
    hef
    ir
    st
    ti
    mewithsomuchanger )
    DKing:I'
    l
    lmakesureyouroti
    nthepal
    ace
    cel
    ls,y
    ouwon'tr
    eceiv
    efoodnorwaternxx
    *hetur
    nedandwalkedaway*
    DQueen:*wipinghertear
    s*youboughtthi
    s
    uponyourself*shet
    urned*guardstakeher
    tohercel
    landt akeSbotoNcami soshe
    canhel
    phi
    m.
    Shewalkedawayandjoi
    nedherangr
    y
    husbandathi
    soff
    ice.
    Musa:
    comeher
    e*openi
    nghi
    sar
    ms*
    Nomusathrewhersel
    fatherhusbands
    armsandheheldherforal
    ongtimelet
    ti
    ng
    hercr
    y.Af
    teranhourncamiwalkedin.
    Ncami
    :i
    tisdone
    DQueen:
    hewi
    l
    lbenohar
    mtot
    hepr
    incess
    r
    ight
    ?
    Ncami
    :
    nohewon'
    t
    DQueen:
    thanky
    ou
    Ncami :ohandthepri
    ncess'
    sf acemightbe
    unmaskedbutt her
    eissti
    llalotabouther
    thatneedstobeunmaskedi nduet i
    me
    *sheturnedandwalkaway *
    .
    ¶Tuesday

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    TodayI'
    m goi
    ngbackt
    owork,
    Ihave
    ever
    ythi
    ngnowandIcan'
    twai
    ttosee
    TashaImissher
    .
    Si
    pho:i
    fyoudon'
    tgety
    ourbuti
    nthecary
    ou
    wi
    llcat
    chataxi
    !!
    Ir
    oll
    myey
    eswal
    ki
    ngt
    othecarwi
    thMJ.
    Sipho:
    youhavetot
    akedri
    vinglessonsso
    youcangetyourowncar*star
    tingthe
    i
    gniti
    on*
    Me:ahhcomeonnowasi
    fyoudonotenj
    oy
    dr
    ivi
    ngmearound.
    Wet al
    kal
    lthewaytomywor k,af
    ter
    droppi
    ngmeoffhequickl
    ydr
    ivesawayhe
    hasameetingtogett
    oo.
    Iwal
    kinthebuil
    dingwithheadsturning
    l
    ookingatmeohi t'
    sthefi
    rstti
    met heyare
    seei
    ngmyf ace,
    Igetintheelevat
    orwi t
    h
    2guys.
    Guy
    1:goodmor
    ningmi
    ssnd.
    .
    Me:f
    rom nowonpl
    easecal
    lmemi
    ss
    Mthembu
    Thei
    rey
    espopout
    Guy2:
    thatwhyy oulookfamil
    iar
    ,youar
    ethe
    missi
    ngprincess*t
    heelevat
    oropen*
    Me:
    I'
    m nol
    ongermi
    ssi
    ng*
    Ist
    epout
    *
    Iwal
    ktoTasha'
    sof
    fi
    ceandf
    indheral
    ready
    busy
    .
    Me:
    babe
    Herheadshotsupandshehasaconf
    used
    yetshockedl
    ook.
    Me:
    bef
    orey
    ouaskorsayany
    thi
    ngl
    i
    sten.
    Isi
    tdownandt
    ell
    herev
    ery
    thi
    ng.
    Me:sofr
    om nowoncallmembalenhl
    e
    Mbalif
    orshortandpl
    easetr
    eatmethe
    samewayy ouweretr
    eati
    ngme.
    Her:
    thi
    sistoomuch*bl
    owi
    ngherey
    eswi
    th
    herhands*comegi
    vemeahug.
    Webot
    hst
    andupandhugeachot
    her
    .
    Her:
    *br
    eaki
    ngt hehug* Imi
    ssedyouso
    muchbabeandt hismeansIcanf inal
    l
    yeat
    l
    unchwithyou,I'
    mt i
    redeati
    ngwi t
    hAmahle
    andherboy
    friend*r
    oll
    inghereyes*
    Me:
    Amahl
    e??
    Her:
    yeahsomegirl
    I'
    vebeeneat
    ingwi
    th
    you'
    l
    lseeherdur
    inglunch.
    Me:
    ok,
    seey
    oul
    ater*
    Iwal
    kout
    *
    Iwalkt
    oMrM' sofficeandknockfir
    staf t
    er
    sayi
    ngIcouldcomei nIwalkinandfindhim
    seat
    edwi t
    hMJnxxImeanwel l
    youknow
    andtheguyt hatoncewalkedinwhileme
    andMJwer ewor king.MJturnsandlookat
    meandt heregoesmyknees, hi
    sjawdr ops.
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t15~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Thi
    sguywhoIthi
    nki
    sMJ'
    sbrot
    herlooksat
    MJwhohashismout
    hhangi
    nghefoll
    ow
    hi
    sgazeandl
    ooksatme,
    hisj
    awal
    sodr
    ops.
    Me:
    uhm goodmor
    ning
    MrM: morningMissMt hembu*helooksat
    bothoftheseguys*closeyourmouthsyou
    foolIcanalsoseeshe'sbeaut
    if
    ulbutact
    prof
    essional.
    Iqui
    ckl
    ylookdownandbl
    ush.
    MrM:forgi
    vemysonstheyar
    enotusedto
    suchbeautywel
    laf
    termywif
    eofcourse
    ,pl
    easetakeaseat
    .
    Iwalktowar
    dsthechairandtakeaseat
    betweenMJandt heotherguywhoquickl
    y
    maintai
    nsastr
    aightf
    aceandcl ear
    shi
    s
    thr
    oat.
    Him:t
    henamei
    sKhay
    a*ext
    endi
    nghi
    s
    hand*
    Me:
    Mbal
    enhl
    e*shaki
    nghi
    shand*
    MrM:
    I'
    ll
    takei
    tasi
    fyou'
    reback
    Me:
    yesandmyparent
    ssai
    dtopassthei
    r
    t
    hanksf
    orhel
    pingIal
    sot
    hankyou.
    MrM:
    noneedt
    omychi
    l
    d
    Me:
    theyal
    sosai
    dtopasst
    hankst
    oMr
    McKenzi
    e.
    MrM:wil
    ldo,wearejustgl
    adyouarefine
    andt
    hatyouwil
    lnolongerhi
    deyourface.
    Inodwhi
    l
    esmi
    l
    ing.
    MJ:
    ohgod.
    Het
    akesafil
    eont
    opoft
    hedeskandst
    art
    f
    ani
    nghimsel
    f
    Khay
    a:*
    hol
    dingi
    nlaught
    er*ar
    eyouokbr
    o
    MJ:whyisi
    tsohoti
    nhere?*l
    ooseninghi
    s
    t
    ieandunbut
    toni
    nghi
    sshir
    tatthetop*
    MrM:
    whatar
    eyout
    aki
    ngabout
    ?Ar
    eyou
    sur
    eyouar
    eok?
    Isitupandt
    akeaglassofwaterf
    rom t
    he
    tableatt
    hecor
    neroftheof
    fi
    ce.
    Me:her
    ehavesomewat
    er*
    handi
    nghi
    m
    somewater
    *
    Hejustlookatt
    hewatert
    henatstrai
    ghtto
    myey esandIstar
    eri
    ghtbackgodhiseyes
    andgodknowshowmuchIwantt olook
    awaybutIcan't
    .
    Khay
    a:daddoy
    ouhav
    ecamer
    asi
    nher
    e?
    Iqui
    cklyl
    ookawayandMJt
    akest
    hegl
    ass
    ofwater.
    MrM: yesIdobutI
    '
    mtheonl
    yonewhohas
    accesstothem
    Khay
    a:why
    ?
    MrM:
    Iwoul
    dn'
    twantsecur
    it
    iesseemy
    wi
    fenakednowwoul
    dI?
    What
    ???Whyam Ist
    il
    lher
    e?
    Khaya:
    whywoul
    dmom benakedi
    nyour
    off
    ice?
    MrM:*
    giv
    ingkhay
    aaboredf
    ace*don'
    ttel
    l
    meyoudon'
    tknowany
    thi
    ngaboutof
    fi
    ce
    s*
    x.
    Myj
    awdr
    opsandMJchokeonwat
    er.
    MJ:
    Dad!
    Me:uhm Ishoul
    dgogetst
    art
    edwi
    thwor
    k*I
    st
    andup*
    MrM:whyareyouevenaski
    ngaboutmy
    camer
    as?*l
    ooksatme*haveagreatday
    mychi
    ld.
    InodasIt
    urnwaki
    ngt
    othedoor
    Khay
    a:causest
    art
    ingf
    rom t
    odayI
    '
    llbe
    shoot
    ingal
    ovest
    ory
    .
    Icloset hedoorbehi ndmer el
    easi
    ngmy
    breat handwal ktomyof fi
    cewithMJI
    reall
    yneedt oredecorateit
    .AssoonasI
    openmyl aptopIst artworkingonthethings
    Imi ssed, icomeal ongt oMrZuma' scase
    andIqui cklyremembermam' ZumaIthinkI
    didpl aceinsanel e'scardinmybag, I
    sear chfori tandfindi tt
    hencallhi
    m//
    Hi
    m:Sanel
    espeaki
    nghel
    l
    o
    Me:
    sanel
    ehi
    thi
    sisMbal
    enhl
    e
    Him:
    *cl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *ohMbal
    ihowar
    e
    you?
    Me:
    I'
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Him:I
    'm mor
    ethanoknowt
    haty
    ou'
    ve
    cal
    led.
    Uh?
    ?
    Me:uhm I
    '
    m cal
    l
    ingt
    oaskf
    ory
    ourmot
    her
    's
    number.
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    llsendem.
    Me:
    thankshav
    eagr
    eatday
    Hi
    m:ohi
    wil
    l
    Me:
    okt
    henby
    e//
    Idr
    opt
    hecal
    landcont
    inuewor
    king.
    .
    "Tashasai
    dtotel
    lyoushe'
    swai
    ti
    ngf
    ory
    ou"
    Ilookupohit
    sMJ
    Me:
    i
    t'
    sal
    readyl
    unch?
    *looki
    ngatt
    het
    ime*
    Hi
    m:y
    eah.
    It
    akemywal
    l
    etandwal
    ktowar
    dst
    hedoor
    .
    Hi
    m:y
    ouar
    esobeaut
    if
    ul*
    looki
    ngatme*
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    thanky
    ou.
    Il
    ookdownandfindMJlooki
    ngatmet hen
    Jasonthenmeagai
    nthenbackatJason,I
    wonderwhy?
    Me:
    Ishoul
    dgetgoi
    ng
    Hi
    m:y
    eahy
    eahy
    eah,
    lunchy
    ourenj
    oy
    Me:
    what
    ?*conf
    used*
    Him:Imeanl
    unchenj
    oyy
    our*
    hol
    dshi
    s
    head*
    Khayashowsupoutofnowher
    ehol
    dinghi
    s
    phone
    Khaya:f
    orgi
    vemybrot
    herhedoesn'
    tfeel
    ful
    lywellt
    oday,
    whathe'
    str
    yingt
    osayi s
    thatenj
    oyyourl
    unch.
    He'
    sisnotwel
    l
    ?Iwonderwhat
    'swr
    ongwi
    th
    hi
    m
    Me:
    thanks,
    Ihopey
    ou'
    l
    lgetbet
    tersoon.
    Iwalkawayandhearkhay
    asay
    s"y
    ouar
    e
    suchamook"
    Tasha:I
    '
    vebeenwai
    ti
    ngfory
    ouf oral
    ong
    ti
    me* hooki
    ngmyarmtohers"
    Me:
    sor
    rybabeIdi
    dn'
    tnot
    icet
    het
    ime
    Tasha:
    luckyforIhavealreadyorderedso
    wewi l
    lj
    ustpayandt akeouroderwewon' t
    standonthoselonglines,andIwillshow
    youofftoAmahl eandherboy fr
    iend.
    Me:
    showmeof
    f??
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    Her:
    l
    etmebeok, wewil
    lnowdosleep
    over
    sandt al
    kaboutguysthewhole
    ni
    ght,
    takesel
    fiesandal
    lthati
    sh.
    Ijustshakemyheadsmi l
    i
    ngasshegoes
    onandon.Wegetouror derandhead
    towards"Amahl
    eandherboy f
    ri
    end"my
    phonev i
    brat
    esi
    ndicat
    ingamessageItur
    n
    i
    ton,sanel
    ehasf
    inal
    l
    ysentme
    mam' Zuma'
    snumberhesur
    etookhi
    s
    sweettime.
    Tasha:
    babethi
    sisAmahl
    e,Amahl
    ethi
    sis
    mbalenhl
    e.
    Il
    ookawayfr
    om myphonet
    henngiv
    e
    Amahlemyatt
    ent
    ionandmymouthhangs
    open.
    Amahle:youdi
    dn'tt
    ell
    mey
    ourf
    ri
    endi
    sthe
    pr
    incess*
    smili
    ng*hey
    Ijustnodasweseatoppositetoherand
    herboy f
    ri
    end,
    theyaresti
    ll
    together
    ?I
    thoughtshesaidhebrokeupwithher.
    Tasha:
    andt
    hisi
    sherboy
    fri
    endNsi
    ka.
    Nsi
    kaext
    endshishandIal
    soext
    endmi
    ne
    f
    orahandshake
    Hi
    m:ni
    cet
    omeety
    ou
    Inodandtrytotakebackmyhandt hathe'
    s
    holdi
    ngfordearli
    fe,Il
    ookathim andheis
    giv
    ingmeasmi l
    ethatismakingme
    uncomfort
    ablehet henl
    etgo.
    Amahle:
    soMbaliwher
    ehaveyoubeenal
    l
    thi
    sti
    me?Didyourunawayf
    rom home?
    Wereyouki
    dnapped?
    Icl
    earmyt
    hroutandeatsomef
    ri
    es.
    Me:
    i
    tisal
    ongstor
    ybutbot
    hofy
    ouknow
    measNokwanda.
    Theybot
    hpul
    lashockedl
    ook.
    Tasha:
    youknowt
    hem?
    Me:yeahy
    ouremembert
    hegi
    rlIt
    oldy
    ou
    aboutwhowasmyfri
    endi
    nvar
    sit
    y?
    Tasha:
    yes
    Me:
    thi
    sisher
    Tasha:
    youmean.
    ..
    .ohdamn
    Amahl
    e:butwhyhi
    dey
    ourt
    ruei
    dent
    it
    y?
    Me:
    l
    ikeI
    '
    vesai
    dit
    'sal
    ongst
    ory
    .
    Weal leati
    nsi
    l
    enceIwoul dn'
    tsay
    comfor t
    abl
    esi
    lencecauseNsikaisstil
    l
    l
    ookingatmeandMJi salsolookingathi
    m
    wit
    ht hesamelookhegaveSanel e.
    Tasha:
    weshoul
    dgetgoi
    ng*
    standi
    ngup*
    Me:enj
    oyther
    estofy
    ourday
    *st
    andi
    ngup
    andwalkaway*
    Tasha:
    thatwast
    hewei
    rdestl
    unchI
    '
    veev
    er
    had.
    Me:Idi
    dn'
    texpectmyfir
    stl
    unchi
    npubl
    i
    c
    af
    ter5year
    st obethi
    sbori
    ng.
    Tasha:
    i
    fonl
    yIknewsheist
    hegi
    rl
    ,wewoul
    d
    haveat
    esomewhereel
    se
    Me:
    ther
    e'sal
    way
    stomor
    row.
    Thenoutofnowher eMJt urnaroundIal
    so
    tur
    n, hewal ksbacktothetablewewer e
    seatedi n,hejumpsont hetableand
    scratchesNsi ka'
    sarm wit
    hhi slongpoi
    nty
    nail
    s, Igaspholdingmymout h.
    Nsi
    kascr
    eamsi
    npai
    nasbl
    oodcomesout
    Amahl
    e:ohmygodbabey
    ou'
    rebl
    eedi
    ngbut
    why
    ?
    Nsi
    ka:somethingj
    ustscr
    atched
    me*hol
    dinghisarm*
    Amahl
    e:bi
    tther
    e'snot
    hingher
    e
    Nsi
    ka:
    *pi
    ssed*soIj
    ustri
    ppedoffmyshirt
    wit
    hmyfinger
    sandscratchedmysel
    f??
    Tasha:
    whathappenedov
    ert
    her
    e?
    Iam st
    il
    lshocked,
    whywoul
    dMJdosucha
    t
    hing,
    hewal
    ksbackt
    omegi
    vi
    ngnocar
    e
    Tasha:
    babelet
    'sgoandl
    ett
    hem deal
    wit
    h
    thei
    rpr
    oblems.
    Wewal
    kout
    ,Ihav
    etocal
    lmom.
    .
    °
    MJ°
    Imadeaf ooloutofmy selftwi
    ceinfrontof
    agoddess,myf utur
    ewi f
    e, t
    hemotherof
    myfuturekids.Ev er
    yguyher eatwor khas
    beeneyeingandt alki
    ngabouthert heyneed
    tobackoffbef oreIsetthiswholebuildi
    ng
    onfi
    rewithev eryoneinside.
    Khay
    a:comeonnowsmi
    l
    efort
    hecamer
    a
    Me:
    nxxwhyar
    eyoust
    il
    lher
    e?
    Him:youshouldbet
    hanki
    ngmeIsav
    ed
    yourblackass.
    WellhedidbutIwon'
    ttel
    lhi
    mthatbecause
    I
    '
    llneverher
    etheendofit.
    Khay
    a:sowhenwi
    l
    lyoumakey
    ourmov
    e
    Me:assoonasIl
    ear
    ntosayst
    rai
    ght
    sentencest
    oher
    .
    Him:andwhenwil
    l bet
    hat
    ?Causesome
    Joshguyispl
    anningonmaki
    nghismove
    bytheendoftheday.
    Hebet
    ternot
    ,mydooropensandLebo
    wal
    ksi
    n
    Her
    :af
    ter
    noongent
    leman
    Khay
    a:af
    ter
    noonLebo
    Her
    :I
    'm her
    etot
    alkt
    oMJ*
    looki
    ngatkhay
    a*
    Khay
    a:oky
    oumayt
    alk
    Her
    :mayy
    ougi
    veussomepr
    ivacy
    ?
    Khay
    a:Iai
    n'
    tgoi
    ngnowher
    eespeci
    all
    ysi
    nce
    Ismelldramaandev er
    ylovestor
    yhas
    drama*pickinguphi
    sphoneandconti
    nue
    fi
    lming,walkingt
    othecouch*
    Lebo:
    *bl
    ushes*
    uhm howar
    eyou*
    looki
    ngat
    me*
    Ij
    ustl
    ookatherandsaynot
    hing.
    Lebo:
    ooky
    ,whyar
    en'
    tyout
    aki
    ngmycal
    l
    s
    Me:
    whyar
    eyouev
    encal
    l
    ingme?
    Her
    :i
    sitacr
    imet
    ocal
    lmyman?
    Me:
    ohsweet
    yofcour
    senotbuti
    tisacr
    ime
    t
    ocall
    mecauseIai
    n'
    tyourman.
    Her
    :*shocked*butIthoughtwewer
    ehav
    ing
    agoodt i
    met ogether.
    Me:i
    twasonly2night
    snowpleasebea
    goodgi
    rlandgetoutofmyof
    ficeandmy
    l
    if
    e*smi
    li
    ng*
    Shewal
    ksoutslowlywit
    hatail
    betweenher
    l
    egsandkhayaburstoutl
    aughi
    ng,
    Istand
    upwal
    kingt
    owar dsthedoor
    Khay
    a:wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng?
    Me:
    tol
    ookf
    ort
    hisJoshguy
    Hejustl
    aughsatmeandsayI
    '
    m whi
    pped
    nxx.
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Sanel
    ewasatabouquetst
    oret
    obuy
    fl
    owersf
    ormbal
    enhl
    e
    Assi
    stant
    :af
    ter
    noonsi
    r
    Hi
    m:af
    ter
    noonmayIhav
    eyourbestf
    lower
    s
    Assi
    stant
    :what
    'st
    heoccasi
    onsi
    r?
    Hi
    m:uh?
    Assi
    stant
    :seewesepar
    ateourf
    lower
    sin
    dif
    ferentcat
    egories,
    theonesy ougiveto
    yourladywheny ouwillbeproposingto
    her,
    hav eagooddayf l
    ower set
    c,orthe
    random onesforgirl
    fr
    iends,momsor
    fri
    ends
    Hi
    m:gi
    rl
    fr
    iend*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Theassi
    stantnodsandwalksofft
    hen
    comebackwi t
    hbeauti
    ful
    redroses,
    sanel
    e
    paysf
    orthem
    Hi
    m:I'
    l
    lbecomi ngbacksoonf
    ort
    he
    pr
    oposingones*smi
    li
    ng*
    Theassi
    stantsmi
    l
    est
    hanhewal
    ksout
    .
    Meanwhi
    leNsi
    kawasnowchi
    l
    li
    ngwi
    thhi
    s
    f
    ri
    ends.
    Ndu:
    whathappenedt
    oyourar
    m?
    Hi
    m:mi
    norscr
    atch
    Hewaslyi
    ngcausehewasi
    npai
    nbuthe
    act
    edst
    rong
    Hi
    m:y
    ouwon'
    tbel
    i
    evewhoIsawt
    oday
    .
    Mzwa:
    car
    dib?
    ?
    Hi
    m:nxxno,
    Isawmbal
    enhl
    ethepr
    incess
    Nduh:
    Ihear
    dthatshe'
    sfound
    Hi
    m:It
    hinkshewasnev
    ermi
    ssi
    ng
    Nduh:
    whatmakesy
    out
    hinkt
    hat
    ?
    Hi
    m:becauseshei
    sNokwanda
    Ndu&Mzwa:
    *shocked*
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahandshe'
    str
    ipl
    ehot
    Mzwa:andI
    '
    m sur
    eshehasaguynowand
    youhaveagi
    rl
    Hi
    m: Idon'
    tminddoi
    ngatradecauseshei
    s
    t
    hegi r
    lIwanttowakeupnextt
    ooev er
    y
    morning.
    Nduh:
    wear
    etal
    ki
    ngaboutapr
    incessher
    e
    dude
    Hi
    m:so?
    Nduh:doyouthinkherni
    ggawil
    lj
    ustl
    ether
    gojustbecauseyouwanther
    ?
    Hi
    m:ifheknowswhat
    'sbestf
    orhi
    m he
    wi
    ll
    *smirki
    ng*
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t16~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Sobasicall
    yMJwas" pr
    otecti
    ng"meas
    mom say sItoldhert
    hatNsikadidn'tdo
    anyt
    hingtomebutshesai dImustnev er
    doubtmypr otect
    orforheseesbey ondthe
    humaney
    e.
    Any wayt heweeki sal mostoveri t
    'salr
    eady
    Friday,stayingwi thSiphoisamazi nghe
    spoilsmet oomuchhesay shei sfil
    li
    ngup
    forthel osttimeandt hereisthisguy
    namedJoshwhohasbeenaski ngmeout
    eversi ncemeandTashacamebackf rom
    l
    uncht hent here'sSanelewhohasbeen
    blowingupmyphonewi thcallsand
    messagest hent here'
    sMJahhi t'
    sl i
    ke
    everytimeheseesmeev er
    ythingfreezes
    causehel it
    erallyfreezesandl ookst r
    aight
    atmewi t
    hdr eamyey esofhisandhi s
    brotheral way slaughsathi m andt ake
    picturesorv i
    deosIdon' tknow.
    Tasha:
    whydon'
    tyout
    woj
    ustdat
    eal
    ready
    ?
    Me:
    who?
    Her
    :youandMJ?
    *rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    Me:
    what
    ?Why
    ?*act
    ingshocked*
    Her:
    becausei
    t'
    sobv
    ioust
    hathel
    i
    kesy
    ou
    andyouli
    kehi
    m
    Me:
    whosai
    dIl
    i
    kehi
    m?
    Her
    :Isai
    dsoplusyoutwowoul
    dmakea
    per
    fectcoupl
    e*smi
    li
    ng*
    Me:
    wel
    ltobadcauseIl
    i
    keJosh
    Her
    :*shocked*
    youwhat
    ???
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    soy
    ouar
    ecomi
    ngov
    er
    t
    oni
    ghtri
    ght
    ?
    Her
    :youhav
    eacr
    ushONJosh?
    ??
    Me:
    what
    'swr
    ongwi
    tht
    hat
    ?
    Her
    :Hav
    eyouseenMJ?
    ?
    Me:i
    sthatar
    het
    ori
    cal
    quest
    ion?
    ofcour
    se
    I
    'v
    eseenhim
    Her
    :andst
    il
    lyouhav
    eacr
    ushonJosh?
    Me:
    okIdonothav
    eacr
    ushonJosh.
    "
    Ohthankgoodness"
    someonesay
    smaki
    ng
    meandTashaturn
    Me:
    whowast
    hat
    ?
    Tasha:t
    hesemonkeyswi
    theavesdr
    oppi
    ng
    arestar
    ti
    ngtogetonmynerves.
    Her
    :sodoy
    ouhav
    eacr
    ushonMJ?
    Me:
    I.
    .(
    myphoner
    ingsdi
    stur
    bingme)
    Ohi
    tsSi
    phoIanswer
    //
    Me:
    boo
    Him:
    sthandwaSam unj
    ani
    (myl
    ove,
    howar
    e
    you?
    )
    Me:
    I'
    m good,
    you?
    Hi
    m:met
    oo,
    I'
    mjustsoexci
    ted
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    yousur
    eaboutt
    hat
    ?
    Him:y
    eahI
    '
    m sickandt
    iredofyoutal
    ki
    ngt
    o
    MJinmypresencewhi
    leIcan'
    ttal
    kto
    Angel
    a
    Me:
    ser
    iousl
    yAngel
    a??
    thati
    sagi
    rlname
    Him:
    *l
    aughs*wel
    lIhav
    en'
    tthoughtofa
    nameforhi
    my et
    Me:
    whataboutSJ?
    Hi
    m:Si
    phoj
    uni
    or?
    ?
    Me:
    yeah
    Him:wuuuhIl
    ov.
    .*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *I'
    l
    lthi
    nk
    abouti
    t
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    yeahsur
    e
    Him:I
    '
    llseey
    ouonMondaybutI
    '
    llkeepon
    cal
    li
    ngok?
    Me:
    ok,
    dri
    vesaf
    e
    Hi
    m:Il
    ovey
    ou
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*Il
    ovey
    out
    oo/
    /
    Ihungupknowi
    nghei
    ssmi
    l
    ing
    Tasha:
    wast
    haty
    ourbr
    other
    ?
    Me:
    yer
    p
    Her:
    Iadoretherel
    ati
    onshi
    pyout
    wohav
    e
    i
    t'
    sadorable*smil
    i
    ng*
    Me:thanks,
    whatabouty
    our
    swi
    thy
    our
    si
    ster?
    Her:
    aghdon'
    tevengot
    her
    e*t
    hrowi
    ngher
    handsi
    ntheair
    *
    Il
    aughatherdr
    amat
    icgest
    ure
    Me:
    pleasegobackt
    oyourof
    fi
    ce
    Her
    :I
    'm donef
    ort
    heday
    Me:
    andI
    '
    m not
    Her
    :comeoni
    t'
    sFr
    iday
    Me:
    I'
    m al
    mostdone.
    SheseatsonmycouchnexttoMJwhi ch
    remindsmeIhav etor
    edecor
    atemyoffi
    ce,
    Siphoalr
    eadytookcar
    eofmyr oom,
    anywayIfini
    shoffmyworkaft
    eranhour.
    Me:
    okaydone*
    closi
    ngmyl
    apt
    op*
    Her
    :cool
    isSi
    phopi
    cki
    ngusup?
    Me:
    nohehasal
    readyl
    eft
    .
    Her
    :ahhsoIam goi
    ngt
    owast
    emoneyon
    t
    hecab
    Me:
    youal
    way
    swast
    emoneyoni
    t
    Her
    :yeahbutIhavetogohomef
    ir
    stand
    t
    hentoy ourhouse.
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    Khay
    awal
    ksi
    n
    Hi
    m:hel
    l
    oladi
    es
    Me&Tasha:
    hey
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Him:
    todaywasmylastdayher
    eandyou
    twohavebeenr
    eall
    ynicetomesobef
    oreI
    goiwouldl
    iket
    otakey out
    wooutt
    oni
    ght.
    Tasha:
    uhm ar
    eyouaski
    ngor
    Khay
    a:ohyeaher
    rwouldy
    oul
    adi
    esl
    i
    ket
    o
    gooutwi
    thmetonight
    ?
    Tasha:
    wel
    ovet
    o*smi
    l
    ing*
    What
    ?
    Khaya:
    andmybrotherwi
    l
    lal
    sot
    agal
    ongI
    hopeyoudon'
    tmind
    Tasha:
    per
    fect
    *looki
    ngatmewi
    thagr
    in*
    Me:
    what
    ?whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatmel
    i
    ke
    t
    hat
    ?
    Tasha:sokhay
    aatwhatt
    imeshoul
    dwebe
    ready
    ?
    Ai
    bo
    Khaya:at19h00Ineedyouraddr
    esses,
    I'
    ll
    askmybr othert
    opickupmbalenhl
    ewhileI
    pickupTasha.
    Tasha:
    mya.
    .
    Me:
    noneedt
    obothery
    ourbr
    other
    ,webot
    h
    wi
    ll
    beatmyhouse.
    Khay
    a:okt
    henI
    '
    llseey
    out
    oni
    ght
    .
    Igi
    vehi
    m myaddr
    essandhel
    eav
    es
    mumbli
    ng"pl
    anBiti
    s"
    Tasha:
    l
    et'
    sgo*
    standi
    ngup*
    Ipackupmyt hi
    ngsandt hethreeofuswal
    k
    out,IcanseeTasha'
    sfaceisbeemingwit
    h
    exci
    tementletmedosomet hing
    Me:
    uhbabe
    Her
    :yes*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    Idon'
    tfeel
    li
    kegoi
    ngout
    t
    oni
    ght
    *maki
    ngasadf
    ace*
    Hersmi
    l
    equi
    ckl
    ydi
    sappear
    s
    Her
    :what
    ?why
    ?
    Me:
    Ij.
    .
    Her:
    youknowwhatdonotanswer*rai
    sing
    herhand*wearegoingl
    i
    keitornotevenifI
    havetodragy
    outheremysel
    f,
    nowgoI 'l
    l
    seeyouinanhour.
    Me:dr
    amati
    cmuch*chuckl
    i
    ng*Iwasjust
    pul
    l
    ingyourl
    eg,
    I'
    ll
    seeyouinanhourbye
    Her
    :*si
    ghsi
    nrel
    i
    ef*by
    e
    Iwalktothecabandst art
    stheignit
    ion,my
    parentswantedtogetmeadr i
    verti
    llIhave
    myowncart hedaytheysaidthatwhich
    wasy est
    erdaymademer eal
    izethatItotal
    ly
    for
    gotaboutbab'zondihowcoul dIforget
    abouthim?Luckyformedadf oundhi m
    andhewi l
    l st
    artonMondaybutst i
    l
    lIfeel
    l
    ikeabadper sonbab'zonditoldmeabout
    hissit
    uat
    ionandy etIforgotabouthim.We
    arri
    veatSipho'sIpaythedriverandgo
    i
    nsideusingmykeyohy esIhav emyown
    keynow.
    Me:*cr
    unchingdown*soMJar eyouready
    fort
    onightcauseitseemsli
    kewearegoing
    out.
    *al
    sobr ushi
    nghisfur
    *
    Hej ustr
    ubshisf aceagai nstmyneckhe
    seemst oli
    kedoi ngthatal otandheal so
    l
    ov eshisname,thef i
    rstti
    meIcal l
    edhim by
    i
    thej umpedonmemaki ngmef all
    and
    l
    ickedmeal lovermyf acewi thhisti
    ckl
    ish
    tounge.AbouttonighteyI 'm pret
    tysure
    whenIcomebackmycheekswi l
    lbe
    burningcauseMJwi llbewi t
    husandI
    seem toblushev eryti
    mebyj ustlooki
    ngat
    hi
    m,ifthi
    sisn'
    twi
    tchcr
    aftIhav
    enoi
    dea
    whatiti
    s.
    .
    °
    MJ°

    I'
    m alreadyattherest
    aurantwai ti
    ngf ormy
    brothertocomebackwi tht heladiesIjust
    praytogodt hatIdon'
    tfreezet oni
    ghtand
    everythi
    nggoesasIpr acti
    ceduhm di dIsay
    practi
    sederrImeanaghwhat ever,Idid
    practi
    ceeyi wonderifLenhleknowst hat
    shemakesmeweak.
    Aft
    erafewminutesthethreeofthem walk
    i
    nbutmyey esaregluedtotheladywear i
    ng
    ablackhi
    ghwaistanday ell
    owshirtwit
    ha
    smilet
    hatmakesmesogoddamnhot ,
    they
    gettomeandkhayaopenst hechairfor
    Nat
    ashabri
    ngi
    ngbackt
    omysensesI
    qui
    ckl
    yst
    andupandopenachai
    rforLenhl
    e.
    Lenhl
    e:*
    blushi
    ng*t
    hanky
    ou
    Me:
    pleasur
    emyl
    ady
    Iret
    urntomyseatandourwai
    tershowsup
    andtakeouror
    der.
    Khay
    a:sol
    adi
    est
    ell
    usabouty
    our
    sel
    ves
    Nat
    asha:
    wel
    lI'
    l
    lgof
    ir
    stI
    '
    m Nat
    ashaSmi
    thI
    ..
    Khay
    a:uy
    uml
    ungu?
    (youar
    ewhi
    te)
    Natasha:chaangisi
    yeumlunguubab'wami
    oyuml ungu(
    noIain'
    twhit
    emyf atheris)
    nowasIwassay ingbef
    oreIwasr udely
    i
    nterrupted*
    looki
    ngatkhaya*uhhI'm 22
    yearsoldIhaveanannoyingoldersi
    ster
    an..
    .
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*Icoul
    drel
    ate*
    looki
    ngat
    khay
    a*
    Natasha:Iseei
    nter
    rupt
    ingsomeonewhi
    l
    e
    t
    alkingrunsint
    hef ami
    ly
    Me:
    ohsor
    rydocont
    inue
    Her
    :nahI
    '
    m done*
    sul
    ki
    ng*
    Khay
    a:ncahhy
    oual
    mostl
    ookcut
    e.
    Nat
    ashashoot
    shi
    m wi
    thaki
    l
    li
    ngey
    e.
    Khaya:
    Imeanyoulookbeaut
    if
    ulmorethan
    cut
    embalenhl
    epleasetel
    lusabouty
    oursel
    f.
    Wel
    aughatt
    hewayhequi
    ckl
    ysayt
    hat
    .
    Lenhle:
    uhm I
    'm MbalenhleMt
    hembuI'l
    lbe
    tur
    ning21ont he6thofJuneandify
    ou
    guysimpressmet onightImi
    ghti
    nvi
    teyou
    tomypar t
    y
    Weal
    ll
    augh
    Me:
    whatshoul
    dwedot
    oimpr
    essy
    ou?
    Her:
    sur
    pri
    semecausemeandM.
    .uhhmom
    l
    ikesur
    pri
    ses
    Khay
    a:whet
    herweimpr
    essy
    ouornotI
    '
    llbe
    comi
    ngtothatpar
    ty
    Theladi
    esgigglenotknowi
    nghemeans
    whatheissaying.
    "
    Heybabe"
    Wel
    ookatthi
    syel
    l
    owniggast
    andi
    ngnext
    t
    oLenhl
    e,i
    shesayi
    ngbabet
    oMYLenhle?
    ?
    Hi
    m:youdi
    dn'
    ttel
    lmey
    ou'
    l
    lbegoi
    ngout
    t
    oni
    ght.
    Lenhl
    elooksupathi
    m wi
    thconf
    usi
    on.
    Hi
    m:sobabear
    eyougoi
    ngt
    oint
    roduceme?
    Lenhl
    e:whatar
    eyouo.
    ..
    Theguyqui
    ckl
    yshutherupwithaki
    ssbut
    Lenhl
    equi
    ckl
    ypusheshim andsl
    aphi
    m
    Lenhl
    e:*f
    uming*t
    hef
    uckSanel
    e!whatar
    e
    youdoing?
    Whatt
    hef
    ucki
    sgoi
    ngonher
    e?
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t17~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Thi
    ngswer egoi
    ngperfect
    lyever
    yonewas
    l
    aughingandhappythenthisdumbass
    ni
    ggadecidedtoshowupandst ealmyfi
    rst
    ki
    sswelli
    t'
    snotmyf i
    rstki
    sscausemom
    anddadhav eki
    ssedmesomanyt i
    mes
    whil
    egrowingupbutyouknowwhyImean.
    Sanele:
    whatwast
    hatf
    or?
    *hol
    dinghi
    s
    cheek*
    Me:whatwer
    eyouexpect
    ing?Formet
    o
    ki
    ssyouback?
    Hi
    m:y
    es
    Okmbal
    enhl
    ebr
    eat
    hinandout
    ,inandout
    Hi
    m:Ihavenoi
    deawhyyouar
    eangrybutI
    '
    ll
    gi
    veyousometi
    metocoolof
    f,Idonot
    wantt
    omakeascene.
    Lordpleasecomebacksoy oucanexpl ai
    n
    tomewhatonear thisgoingon.Sanel e
    walksawaywi t
    hMJbehi ndhi m ohno,he
    openstheglassdoorandt urntolookatme
    giv
    ingMJachancet owal koutf i
    rstandhe
    smilesatmenxx ,
    themomenthest epsout
    MJj umpsonhim anddev ourhim withhim
    cl
    awswhi
    l
    esanel
    escr
    eamsi
    nagony
    .
    Tasha:
    whatonear
    thi
    shedoi
    ng?
    whyi
    she
    rol
    l
    ingonthegr
    oundl
    iket
    hat
    ?
    I'
    m pret
    tysurepeopl
    ethinkheiscrazy,MJ
    needstostopbeforehekill
    shim andasif
    hearsmeheget soffhi
    m andwal ktowards
    thedoorbutiti
    sclosedhepushesi twit
    h
    hishead,gr
    eatMJnowpeopl ewill
    thi
    nk
    thisr
    estaur
    antishaunt
    ed.Sanelequickl
    y
    standupanddusthisrippedbloodyclot
    hes
    andwalkawayasi fnothi
    nghappened.
    Khaya:
    whatthefuck?Theweat
    heris
    per
    fect
    lyfi
    neout
    sidether
    eisnowindso
    whothefuckj
    ustopenthedoor
    ?
    MJjustwal
    kst
    ome,get
    sundert
    het
    abl
    e
    andsl
    eeponmyfeet
    .
    Tasha:
    babewhatt
    hehel
    lj
    ust
    happened?
    andwhot
    hehel
    lwast
    hat
    ?
    Khaya:
    MJ!?
    *snappi
    nghi
    sfi
    nger
    sinf
    rontof
    hi
    sface*MJ!!
    Helookst
    ense,
    deepi
    nthought
    sandi
    tsl
    i
    ke
    hezonedout
    .
    Khayawhi
    sper
    ssomethi
    ngtohisearand
    hecomesbacktol
    i
    feandlooksatmewith
    anger
    MJ:excuseme*
    standi
    ngupandwal
    ks
    away*
    MJhasneverl
    ookedatmeli
    ket
    hat
    ,whydi
    d
    heev
    enlookatmeliket
    hat
    ?
    Me:
    whatdi
    dIdo?
    *lowv
    oice*
    Khaya:nothi
    ng,donotmi ndhi
    m andI '
    m
    sor
    ryladiesitsl
    ookslikeIhav
    et ocutour
    ni
    ghtshor t,
    letmejustgoandcheckupon
    mybr otherwhenIcomebackI 'l
    ldri
    veyou
    l
    adi
    eshome.*
    standi
    ngupandwal
    ksaway
    *
    Me:
    *tear
    y*Tashawhatdi
    dIdo?
    Her
    :youdi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ngbabe
    Me:
    thenwhydi
    dMJl
    ookatmel
    i
    ket
    hat
    ?
    Her:
    Ial
    sodon'
    tknow*brushi
    ngmy
    shoul
    der
    *andwhydidn'
    tyoutel
    lmey
    ou
    haveaboyf
    ri
    end?
    Me:
    *sigh*Idonothav
    eaboyfr
    iendt
    hat
    wastheguyItol
    dyouabout
    .
    Her:
    theguywhosentyouf
    lowersandf
    il
    led
    yourphonewi
    tht
    extsandcal
    ls?
    Me:y
    eahandIt
    hinkhe'
    sfol
    l
    owi
    ngmehow
    di
    dheknowIwashere?
    Her:
    Ithi
    nkheiscr
    azywhythef
    uckdi
    dhe
    ki
    ssyou?andcal
    lyou"
    babe"
    Me:
    beat
    smeandt
    heni
    ggast
    olemyf
    ir
    st
    ki
    ss.
    Shel
    aughsatme
    Me:
    TashaI'
    m ser
    ioussaneler
    uinedmy
    moodandontheothersideMJdespiseme
    f
    orsomethi
    ngIdonotknow.
    Shejustsi
    ghsandsaynot hing,theguys
    comebackandt akeaseatIl ookatMJhe
    sti
    ll
    hasatensefaceandl ookingdownon
    hisphone,
    thewaiterwalkstoourt abl
    ewit
    h
    thefoodaft
    erpl
    acingitonthet ablehe
    l
    eaves.
    Khay
    a:l
    et'
    spl
    easeeatf
    ir
    st.
    Theyallst
    arteat
    ingbutIj ustl
    ookatmy
    foodIhavecompl et
    elylostmyappeti
    te,
    j
    ustimaginemer efusingfood.It
    akealook
    atMJagai nandfeeltearsbuil
    dupokI
    admitIdolikeMJandhi sbehavi
    ori
    sn'
    t
    sit
    tingwell
    withme,mycheekgetswetI
    quicklyl
    ookdownandwipemyt ear
    sthen
    takeoutmyphonetorequestf
    oruber.
    Tasha:
    babewhyar
    eyounoteat
    ing?
    Me:I
    '
    m nol
    ongerhungr
    yandIdon'
    tmi
    ndI
    '
    ll
    pay
    Khay
    a:nononoi
    tcool
    I'
    ll
    pay
    Il
    ookathi
    m andf
    akeasmi
    l
    e
    Me:
    thanks
    Khay
    a:ar
    eyouok?
    *st
    udy
    ingme*
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    m good.
    Anotif
    icat
    ioncomei n,
    theuberi
    sal
    ready
    out
    side,Iwhispert
    oTasha'
    sear
    Me:I
    'm sor
    rybabebutIcannolongerbe
    her
    eandpl easefi
    nishy
    ourfooddonot
    fol
    l
    owmeI '
    llseey
    ouathomeok.
    ShenodsIst
    andup
    Me:
    thankyouandpl
    easeenj
    oyt
    her
    estof
    t
    henight
    Khay
    a:y
    ouatl
    eav
    ing?
    Inodandwal
    koutwi
    thMJ.
    ~
    #nar
    rat
    ed
    Sanel
    egetsacallnot
    if
    yinghimthat
    mbalenhl
    ejustl
    eftt
    herestaur
    ant.
    Aft
    erthecallhegoesbacktonursi
    nghis
    woundsandal sowonderi
    ngwhattheheck
    happened,whatthehel
    lgavehi
    mt hose
    wounds.Het urnsonhi
    sphoneandlookat
    Mbali
    'spict
    ure.
    Him:ohpri
    ncessy
    ouhav etofor
    giv
    emef or
    acti
    ngthewayIdidbutIcoul
    dn'
    thandl
    e
    my sel
    fwhenIsawt hatguylooki
    ngatyou
    wit
    hpur edesi
    rehecan'ttakeyouaway
    fr
    om menoonecanandnoonewi l
    lcause
    byMondaywewi l
    lbeoutof fher
    e.
    Het henkissedthepi
    ctur
    eanddr
    inksome
    painkil
    l
    ers.Befor
    etaki
    nganaphecall
    edhi
    s
    ri
    ghthandman/ /
    Hi
    m:br
    o
    Guy
    :sur
    e
    Hi
    m:Ineedaf
    avor
    ?
    Guy:
    okshootandIalsoneedaf
    avorf
    rom
    youbutf
    ornowt el
    lmewhatyouwantme
    t
    ohelpyouwith
    Hi
    m:there'
    ssomeoneIwanty
    out
    okidnap
    f
    ormeandmakei tlookl
    i
    kesher
    anawayor
    l
    eftwil
    l
    ingl
    y.
    Guy
    :whenandwher
    edoIt
    akeher
    ?
    Hi
    m:Sunday,br
    inghert
    omypr i
    vat
    ejetand
    makesureshe'
    sunconsci
    ous
    Guy
    :done,
    name?
    Hi
    m:Mbal
    enhl
    eMt
    hembu
    Theguychockonhi
    ssal
    i
    vaandcoughf
    ora
    l
    ongti
    me.
    Guy:*cl
    ear
    inghist
    hroat*I'
    m notsur
    eifI
    heardyouright
    ,ar
    ey outal
    kingaboutt
    he
    pri
    ncess?
    Him:yesanddonotworryshedoesn'thave
    guardsandherbrot
    herl
    efttodayIdon't
    thi
    nkhe'l
    lbebacksoon
    Guy
    :uhhher
    rI'
    l
    lseewhatIcando
    Hi
    m:sur
    e//
    ~
    Tasha:
    guy
    sI'
    m sor
    ryt
    hatsanel
    ehadt
    orui
    n
    ournight*
    shesay
    sthatt
    obr
    eakt
    he
    si
    lence*
    Khay
    a:nahi
    t'
    scool
    weunder
    stand
    Tasha:
    youdo?
    Khaya:
    yeahImeanifIwalkinar estaurant
    atni
    ghtandseemygi rl
    fr
    iendchill
    i
    ngwi t
    h
    somedudesIwouldalsof r
    eakoutcausei t
    l
    ookedlikewewerehavingadoubl edat e
    butwhatIdon'
    tgeti
    swhydi dsheslap
    hi
    m? nxmaybetheyarehavingtheirissues
    don'
    tmindme
    Tasha:what?Saneleisn'
    therboy
    fri
    endshe
    doesn'thave1(MJ'sheadshootsup)she
    slappedhim becauseshewasmadathi m
    forkissi
    ngher
    Khay
    a:*
    sighsinr
    eli
    ef*Ican'
    tbel
    i
    eveI
    al
    mostdelet
    edmyv i
    deos
    Tasha:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    MJ:wai
    tbackuphowdoesLenhl
    eknows
    t
    hisguy
    ?
    Tashaexplai
    nstothem star
    tingfrom when
    Mbaliwasatmam'Zumaandwhensanel e
    drovembalenhl
    ebackandl astlyt
    othe
    fl
    owers,t
    extsandendlesscalls.
    MJ:
    sotheyarenotdat
    ing*
    say
    ingt
    hati
    na
    l
    owtonebury
    inghisheadt
    ohi
    shands*
    Tasha:I
    '
    m st
    il
    lmadaty ouf
    ormaki
    ngmy
    gi
    rlcryandl
    eavebecauseofy
    ou.
    MJ:
    *shooti
    nguphi
    sheadagai
    n*Lenhl
    e
    wascry
    ing?
    Khaya:"
    becauseofy
    ou"Ihopey
    ouhear
    d
    thatpar
    t
    MJ:*t
    aki
    nghi
    scarkey
    s*Ihav
    etogosee
    her
    Khay a:
    waityoucan'
    tgonearmbal
    enhl
    e
    withoutyourcameraman*cal
    li
    ngawaiter
    forthebil
    l*
    MJ:
    mxm *
    runni
    ngoutt
    ohi
    scar
    *
    MJst art
    edthei
    gni
    ti
    onwit
    hnot
    hingbut
    angerthati
    sdir
    ect
    edtohi
    msel
    fformaki
    ng
    Lenhl
    ef eel
    thewayshedi
    d.
    ~
    Heknocksont hedoort
    hinki
    ngofawayt o
    apol
    ogizebutnothi
    ngcametomi nd,Lenhl
    e
    opensthedoorandalmostclosedi
    twhen
    sheseesiti
    snotTasha.
    Lenhl
    e:MJhi
    whatar
    eyoudoi
    ngher
    e?
    MJ:toapologi
    ze,*
    sighs*Ionl
    ylookedat
    youl
    ikethatcauseIthoughtt
    hatguyisyour
    boyf
    ri
    end
    Lenhl
    e'
    sey
    esshootout
    MJ:*chuckl
    ing*yeahandev
    enifheisI
    shouldn'
    thavebeenmadaty ouIam t
    rul
    y
    sorr
    y.
    Lenhle:
    *wantingt
    osmilebutmaint
    ainsa
    str
    aightface*whydidt
    hethoughtofthat
    guybeingmyboy fri
    endangeryou?
    MJ:becauseI.
    ..
    ..
    welly
    ouhav et
    oagreeto
    goouttodinnerwit
    hmet omorrow t
    henI'
    ll
    answeryou(t
    ryi
    nghisluckandsil
    ent
    ly
    pray
    ingsheagrees)
    Lenhle:
    Icannotagr
    ee*MJl ooksdown*
    becauseyouhaven'
    texact
    lyaskedme
    properl
    y
    MJ:*
    looki
    ngatLenhle*f
    orgi
    veme,woul
    d
    yougooutwit
    hmet omorrowni
    ght
    ?
    Lenhl
    e:Iwoul
    dlov
    etoo*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    MJ:
    thanky
    ousomuchhav
    eawonder
    ful
    ni
    ghtI
    '
    llseey
    out
    omor
    row.
    Lenhl
    e:by
    e.
    Shet hencl
    osedthedoorandl
    eanedoni
    t
    afterafewsecondsshesli
    dedownasshe
    feelherkneesf
    ail
    ingher
    Her
    :MJI'
    m goi
    ngonadat
    ewi
    th
    MJ.
    *smi
    l
    ingatMJ*
    Whil
    eMJwal ksawaysmil
    ingli
    keacol
    d
    cow,hebumpstokhayaandtasha
    Khay
    a:whyar
    eyousmi
    l
    ing?
    MJ:
    whywoul
    dn'
    tI,
    Ihav
    eadat
    etomor
    row
    Khaya:
    oohnot urnbackyoutwowill
    haveto
    Resaytheexactsamewor dsyouwere
    sayi
    ngcauseIt ol
    dyoutonotleav
    ewi t
    hout
    me.
    MJ:
    *Laughi
    ng*nxxl
    et'
    sgoby
    eTasha
    Khay
    a:ai
    (no)
    *fol
    dinghi
    sar
    ms*
    MJ:
    mcm ohhosal
    ake(
    stayt
    hen)
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t18~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    /
    /
    Si
    pho:
    ever
    ythi
    ngi
    sst
    il
    li
    nonepi
    ecer
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    yeschi
    l
    l
    Hi
    m:good,
    sowhatar
    eyougi
    rl
    supt
    o?
    Me:wearechil
    li
    ng,weact
    ual
    l
    yjustgot
    backfr
    om t
    hemal l
    aft
    er30minut
    esIhave
    togetr
    eadyformyd..
    uhh
    Hi
    m:r
    eadyf
    ory
    ourwhat
    ?
    Me:
    uhhnot
    hing
    Him:
    youdoknowt
    hatIdonotmi
    nddr
    ivi
    ng
    r
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    comeoni
    t'
    snot
    hingser
    ious
    Hi
    m:thandearsist
    erdotel
    lyourbrot
    her
    whati
    tisthaty
    ouhav et
    ogetr eadyf
    or
    Me:
    *l
    ower
    ingmyv
    oice*adat
    e
    Hi
    m:comeagai
    n* chuckl
    es*causeIthi
    nkI
    j
    ustheardy
    ousayy ouar
    egetti
    ngreadyfor
    adate.
    Me:
    *si
    l
    ence*
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyougoi
    ngonadat
    e!!
    ?
    Me:
    may
    be
    Hi
    m:nothappeni
    ng
    Me:
    butI
    '
    mt.
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:ISai
    dNotHappeni
    ng!NowIdar
    eyou
    t
    ogot
    othatdat
    emmmmmmmmmmm/
    /
    Hehangsup, aghwhycan' tIkeepmy
    mout hshutbutSi phoisbeingunfairI
    '
    llbe
    tur
    ning21soonf orhowl ongwi l
    lhebethis
    overprot
    ecti
    ve,li
    keIr eal
    l
    ydon' tmindhim
    beingoverpr
    otectivebutI'm nolonger
    15..myphonerings, i
    t'
    shim againmay behe
    changedhismi nd/ /
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*hey
    Hi
    m:mbal
    enhl
    ear
    eyoudat
    ing?
    ?
    Me:
    nowhy
    ?
    Hi
    m:Good/
    /
    Hehangsupagai
    nnxxIam goi
    ngonthat
    dat
    epluswhowil
    ltel
    lhi
    mthatIdi
    dgoaft
    er
    hetol
    dmenotto.
    Tasha:
    what
    'swi
    ththel
    ongfacenow?Did
    someonedi
    ecauseyourbr
    other
    'scal
    l
    s
    al
    way
    sleav
    eyousmi
    l
    ing
    Me:Isort
    aki
    ndatol
    dhim Ihav
    eadate
    todaynowheisangr
    yandsaidIshoul
    dn'
    t
    go
    Tasha:
    What
    !?Whywoul
    dhenotwanty
    ou
    togo?
    Me:
    *si
    gh*
    he'
    sbei
    ngov
    erpr
    otect
    iveasusual
    Her:
    ohokbutifyouknewheis
    over
    prot
    ect
    ive,whytel
    lhi
    m aboutt
    hedat
    e?
    Me:Idi
    dn'
    tmeanto,i
    tjustt
    hatI
    'm usedt
    o
    t
    alki
    ngaboutev
    eryt
    hingwithhi
    m andIcan'
    t
    l
    ietohi
    m
    Her
    :ei
    shsowhatnow?
    Me:Ican'
    tbel
    i
    eveI'
    m abouttosayt
    hisbut
    ,
    I
    'm goi
    ngtodotheopposit
    eofwhathetold
    met odoandgotothatdate
    Her:
    *smil
    ing*don'
    ttel
    lmeIhav
    ecor
    rupt
    ed
    youalr
    eady
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*y
    oucannevercor
    ruptmeI
    meanl
    ookatmeI'
    m del
    i
    ghtf
    ul
    Her:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*say
    ssomeonewhoi
    sgoi
    ng
    agai
    nsthi
    sbrot
    her
    Me:
    mcm
    Her
    :sowhatdr
    esswi
    l
    lyouwear
    ?
    Me:
    whosai
    dI'
    m wear
    ingadr
    ess?
    Her
    :whathav
    edr
    essesev
    erdonet
    otoy
    ou?
    Me:
    nothi
    ngandIdoweardr
    essesj
    ustnot
    much
    Her
    :yousur
    eyouar
    est
    rai
    ght
    ?
    Ihi
    therwi
    thacushi
    onl
    aughi
    ng
    Her:
    what
    ?Iwantt
    obesur
    e,sowhatwi
    l
    l
    youwear
    ?
    Me:bl
    ackheel
    s,bl
    ackl
    eat
    herpant
    sanda
    bl
    ack.
    ..
    Her
    :ar
    eyougoi
    ngt
    oaf
    uner
    al?
    Me:
    no!Bl
    acki
    sav
    erybeaut
    if
    ulcol
    our
    Her
    :say
    swho?
    Me:okletmegogetreadyri
    ghtnowi
    fyou
    don'
    tli
    kemyoutf
    itI
    'l
    lchange.
    Her
    :Idon'
    tl
    ikey
    ourout
    fi
    t
    Me:
    buty
    ouhav
    en'
    tseeni
    tyet
    Her
    :Idon'
    thav
    etoseei
    ttol
    i
    kei
    t.
    Me:
    wel
    ltobadcausey
    ouhav
    etoseeitf
    ir
    st
    *
    Isayt
    hatst
    andi
    ngupgoi
    ngtogetr
    eady*
    ~
    Tasha:
    Ithi
    nkthati
    sMJdrivi
    ngi
    n,youhave
    beeninyourr
    oom formor
    ethananhour!
    Me:
    I'
    ll
    beouti
    nasec!
    Her
    :ar
    eyoudoi
    ngt
    hisonpur
    pose?
    !
    Me:
    no!
    Her:i
    fIdon'
    tli
    key
    ouroutf
    itMJwil
    lhavet
    o
    waitcauseyouwi
    llhav
    etochangei
    tli
    kei
    t
    ornot!
    Irol
    lmyeyesasIt
    urnawayf
    rom t
    hemi
    rr
    or
    andlookatMJ.
    Me:sowhatdoy
    out
    hink?
    *doi
    nga360°
    t
    urn*
    Hej
    ustl
    ooksatmewithhisyel
    loweyes
    whi
    chInol
    ongerf
    indscarybutwhenev
    erI
    l
    ookatt
    hem If
    eel
    safeIfeelpr
    otect
    ed.
    Me:okI
    'l
    ltakey
    oursi
    l
    enceasa"
    youl
    ook
    good"
    Igrabmyhandbagandwal kouttothe
    l
    oungewhereIfi
    ndMJwi thTasha,fr
    om t
    he
    backIcanseeheiswear
    ingagr eyi
    sh
    trousers,bl
    acksneakersandabl ackbl azer
    hedef ini
    tel
    ylookgoodf rom whereI'
    m
    standing, t
    heybothturnast heyhearthe
    soundofmyheel sandt heybothhav ethe
    samel ookwhichi
    sthel ookMJgav eme
    thefirstti
    mehesawmewi thoutthe
    mask. (ohhe'sweari
    ngawhi teT-shirtgodit
    i
    sdoi ngwonder stohisdarkskin)
    MJ:y
    oul.
    look*
    pausi
    ng*wow(
    hehasn'
    t
    bl
    i
    nked)
    Ibl
    ushandl
    ookatTasha
    Me:
    shoul
    dIchange?
    Tasha&MJ:
    No!
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*okt
    hen.
    MJcomescl
    osert
    omeandl
    endmehi
    s
    hand
    Hi
    m:shal
    lwe?
    Me:
    *taki
    nghi
    shand*y
    esweshal
    l
    Tasha:
    youbett
    erbri
    ngherbackexact
    lyat
    22h00*
    withbothherhandsonherwai
    st*
    MJ:
    yesmam.
    Thethreeofuswalkouttohi
    scar
    ,he
    opensthedoorformeandMJhopsinthen
    tothebackfi
    rst
    ,befor
    eIcoul
    dgeti
    nMJ
    hol
    dsmyar m andIlookathi
    m.
    Him:
    uhm Idon'
    tknowi fI'
    m aski
    ngformuch
    butmayIhugyou?*askingnervousl
    y*
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*sur
    e.
    Hesmi lesandl etgoofmyar m whil
    et he
    otherhandgoesar oundmywai stbri
    nging
    mecl osertohisbodyt hentheotherhand
    al
    soj oi
    nt heotherasmi negoesaroundhi s
    neckandIhi demyheadonhi sneckasI
    i
    nhalehi scol
    ognewhi chI'
    m sureisnow
    stuckonmycl
    othes,
    aft
    eraminutewel
    et
    gobutmyeyesdonotmov ef
    rom hi
    sand
    hi
    sdonotmov efr
    om minehethensmi
    les
    andIsmil
    eback.
    Hi
    m:hi
    *wi
    thadeepv
    oice*
    Me:
    hey*thatal
    mostcameoutasa
    whi
    sper
    *
    Hi
    m:y
    oul
    ookbeaut
    if
    ul*
    sti
    l
    lsmi
    l
    ing*
    Me:*
    blushing*t
    hanksandy
    oudon'
    tl
    ook
    badyourself
    .
    Hechuckl esandl eadmei nthecarwi thhis
    hand,hecl osest
    hedooraf terIhavesat
    down, Isitcomfortablyashewal ksaround
    tohissideheget si n,
    takemyhandandki ss
    thebackofi twi
    thasmi l
    eonmaki ngme
    blushfort hehundredt i
    mehet henstarts
    theignit
    ion.
    SiphoIhopey
    ouf
    indi
    tiny
    ourhear
    tto
    forgi
    veme.
    ~
    Thenightgoesperf
    ectl
    yaswet al
    kabout
    every
    thi
    ng,makejokesther
    eandtherehe
    hasabeautif
    ulconti
    guousl
    augh,wealso
    tal
    kaboutourchil
    dhoodsit
    slooksli
    kehe
    hasast r
    ongrel
    ati
    onshipwi
    thhisbrot
    her
    j
    ustli
    kemeandSi pho.Wewerenowon
    desert
    .
    Hi
    m:i
    tsoundsl
    i
    key
    ouwer
    ever
    ynaught
    y.
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    notbadasy
    ouandkhay
    a
    Hi
    m:Iwon'
    tar
    guet
    her
    e*r
    aisi
    nghi
    shands*
    Me:I
    'm surpr
    isedt
    onotseehi
    m her
    e,he
    seemsf ondofyou
    Him:
    *smir
    king*
    I'
    m pr
    ett
    ysur
    ehei
    sher
    eI
    canf
    eelhi
    m.
    Me:doingwhatexact
    ly?Pr
    otect
    ing
    you?*smil
    i
    ng*
    Hi
    m: Idonotneedprot
    ect
    ionIdothe
    pr
    otecti
    ng,andheisfi
    l
    ming*r
    oll
    i
    nghis
    ey
    es*
    Me:y
    oual mostl
    ookgaywheny
    our
    oll
    your
    ey
    es*laughi
    ng*
    Hi
    m:*
    hisey
    espopout
    *what
    ?
    Me:
    I'
    mjustsay
    ingwhatIsee
    Heshakeshi
    sheadwithanamused
    l
    ook,
    whenhestopshiseyesl
    andson
    somethi
    ngorsomeoneandfr
    owns
    Me:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:doy
    ouknowt
    hatguy
    ?*notmov
    inghi
    s
    ey
    es*
    If
    oll
    owhi
    sey
    est
    henl
    ookbackathi
    m.
    Me:
    yeswhy
    ?*hi
    sey
    esmov
    ebackt
    ome*
    Him:hehasbeenl
    ookingatyousi
    ncewe
    satdownisheyourbodyguar
    dor
    somethi
    ng?
    Me:nohe'
    sjustaguywhodat
    edmyf
    ri
    end
    whenIwasstil
    li
    nv ar
    sit
    y.
    Him:t
    henwhyishel ooki
    ngaty ouasi
    fyou
    aresomepieceofcake*hishandsfor
    m
    fi
    stsashi
    sfaceturnshard*
    IturnandlookatNsika,hestandsupand
    walkoutMJt hejaguaralsostandsupand
    taketwostepsandst andsti
    llwhil
    elooki
    ng
    atthedoorthenbackatMJt henthedoor
    againthenMJandwal kbackandl aydown
    onhi sspot
    .
    Me:
    well
    Ihav egotusedtohimlooki
    ngat
    mel
    ikethatandpleasecal
    m downyouare
    scar
    ingme.
    Hel
    oosenup
    Hi
    m:sor
    ry.
    .
    #nar
    rat
    ed
    Nsikawal ksint
    hehotel
    thatisr
    ightnextt
    o
    therestaurantt
    hatMbal
    enhleandMJar e
    havingtheirdat
    eatandwalkstohisroom.
    Hest ar
    tspacingupanddown.
    Him:Ineedtodosomet hi
    ngfast
    ,sanel
    ehas
    orderedmet okidnapthegir
    lIwantsohe
    canhav eherallt
    ohi msel
    fnothat'
    sbul
    lI
    alsowantheralltomy sel
    fandher
    boy f
    ri
    endbetterstayoutofmywaycause
    I'
    l
    l cr
    ushhim.
    Hecont
    inuespaci
    ngupanddownthi
    nki
    ng
    ofhowt
    oki dnapmbal
    enhl
    eandmakeit
    l
    ookcl eanandal sodoublecr
    osssanel e,
    R.T
    comest ohi smindhequicklytakeouthis
    phoneandgot hroughhiscontactsl
    ooking
    forKay'snumberwhi chhegotf rom oneof
    hiscontacts.I
    fyouwantR. Tyougethi m
    throughKay .
    Hi
    m:*star
    ingatKay'
    snumber*I'
    m aboutto
    si
    gnadeal wit
    hthedevi
    lbuti
    twil
    lallbe
    wort
    hitattheend.
    hedial
    sthenumber /
    /
    Kay
    :tal
    k
    Hi
    m:Iwantt
    ospeakwi
    thR.
    T
    Kay
    :yougonnahavet
    oshowsome
    mannersorel
    seI'
    l
    ldr
    opthi
    scal
    l
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    mayIpl
    easet
    alkt
    oR.
    T
    Kay
    :hav
    eyouseent
    het
    ime?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahwhy
    ?
    Kay:
    thenyoushoul
    dknowthatbynowhei
    s
    sl
    eepingbutIcant
    akethemessage.
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    ok
    Het el
    lshim aboutthewholethi
    ngandasks
    forprotect
    ionf r
    om sanel
    enotthathei
    s
    scaredofhi m butt
    obeext r
    acauti
    ous.
    Kay:
    youdoknowwear
    etal
    ki
    ngabouta
    pri
    ncessher
    eri
    ght
    .
    Hi
    m:y
    eah
    Kay:meani
    ngit
    'sgoi
    ngtocosty
    oualotand
    I
    'm nottal
    ki
    ngaboutmoneysoarey
    ousure?
    Hi
    m:y
    esI
    '
    m sur
    e.
    Kay
    :okt
    henIwi
    l
    lgetbackt
    oyout
    omor
    row
    Hi
    m:ok/
    /
    Helaysinhisbedt
    hinki
    ngi
    fhemadet
    he
    r
    ightchoice?
    ~
    Mbalenhl
    eandMJwer
    eatLenhl
    e'
    s
    door
    step.
    Lenhl
    e:t
    hankyouIhadagr
    eat
    ti
    me*smil
    ing*
    MJ:
    Ial
    sohadagr
    eatt
    ime*
    smi
    l
    ingback*
    Lenhl
    e:goodni
    ght
    MJ:
    goodni
    ght
    .
    MJt ur nstowal kawaybutt urnsbackand
    grabLenhl e'
    swaistpull
    inghercl oset
    hen
    l
    ookdeepi ntohereyesafteraf ewseconds
    heki ssesherwhi l
    eLenhl eisinshockshe
    cl
    osesherey esandfollowMJ' sleadasshe
    doesn' tknowhowt okissbutendup
    enjoy i
    ngt hekissasshef eelsherbutt
    erf
    li
    es
    mul t
    iplysnumer ously,
    theybr eaktheki
    ss
    aftersomet i
    meandMJsmi l
    esatLenhle
    whi
    l
    eshebl
    ushes.
    MJ:f
    rom nowoncallmebabecausey
    ou
    ar
    enowmygi rl
    fr
    iendandI
    'myourboy
    fri
    end.
    Het henwalksawayl eavi
    ngLenhlewi t
    hher
    weakkneesi nshockandheraski nghersel
    f
    whathappenedt ofir
    stgoingouton3dat es
    beforeaski
    ngagi rl
    tobey ourgir
    lfr
    iendbut
    thenhermindt el
    lherthathedidn'
    taskher
    tobehergirlf
    ri
    end.
    Lenhl
    e:Whatt
    hef
    uckj
    usthappened?
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t19~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Isl
    owlyturnandwalkinsi
    detr
    yingtodi
    gest
    whatMJj ustsai
    d,Icl
    osethedoorandl
    ean
    onitTashaappears.
    Tasha:
    exact
    ly22h00*l
    ookingatherphone*
    nowcomet el
    lmeev er
    ythi
    ng.
    It
    ryt
    omov
    ebutmykneesar
    est
    il
    lweak.
    Tasha:what
    'swr
    ong?Arey
    ou
    ok?*concer
    nedvoi
    ce*
    Me:
    mykneesar
    eweak
    Her:
    *rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*andher
    eIt
    hinki
    t'
    s
    somethi
    ngseri
    ous.
    Shedr
    agsmet omyroom,webothsleep
    her
    esheref
    usedtouset
    heguestroom.
    Her
    :nowtalkmissi
    eanddon'
    tl
    eav
    e
    any
    thingout.
    Me:
    wai
    tletmechangef
    ir
    st.
    Ist
    andupandt
    akeof
    fmycl
    othest
    hen
    wearPJ.
    Me:
    *si
    tt
    ingonmybednextt
    oher
    *soher
    e
    i
    swhathappened.
    ..
    ..
    Ist
    artt
    ell
    ingherev
    ery
    thi
    ngbutshedi
    stur
    bs
    mehalfway
    Her:
    waitNsi ka?Iknewt hathewasgoi ngt
    o
    betroubl
    e,Ial sosawt hewayhewas
    l
    ookingaty ouonTuesday ,nxxhebett
    er
    keephisplay boytendenci
    est ohimsel
    fand
    play
    ingAmahl ecauseifhedar escomes
    cl
    osertoyouI '
    ll
    arrangehiscuteface.
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    cut
    eface?
    Her:
    eyyeah,
    it'
    sbadthatGodblesses
    wrongpeopl
    ewi t
    hgoodlooks,
    now
    conti
    nue.
    Ishakemyheadandcont
    inuetell
    i
    ngher
    abouttoni
    ght
    ,byt
    heti
    meI'm doneshe'
    s
    smili
    ng.
    Her
    :*smiles*
    youhav
    eaboy
    fri
    end,
    fir
    st
    boy
    friendatthat
    .
    Me:*
    blushi
    ng*buthedi
    dn'
    taskmet
    obehi
    s
    gi
    rl
    fr
    iend
    Her:
    hetoldyouIgetthat
    ,Nowt hequestion
    i
    sdoy ouwanttobehi sgi
    rl
    fr
    iendornot ?If
    youdon'tt
    henyoushouldtel
    lhim because
    nooneshouldbeforcedtobeina
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    ptheydonotwantt obeat .
    NowdoIwanttobehisgir
    lf
    ri
    end?ImeanI
    l
    ikehi
    myeahbutdoIli
    kehim enought
    o
    wantt
    obehisgi
    rl
    fr
    iend?
    Tasha:don'
    tst
    ressyoursel
    fbabeever
    ythi
    ng
    wil
    llayit
    sel
    fout,nowletussleepI
    '
    mt i
    red.
    Wegetundercov
    ers,
    afteraf
    ewmi
    nut
    esI
    hearTasha'
    ssof
    tsnore.
    AsI'
    m aboutt
    oclosemyeyesmyphone
    vi
    brat
    es,It
    akeitandfi
    ndamessagef
    rom
    anunknownnumber .
    "Ican'tsleepyouareallovermymindwit
    h
    yourbeaut if
    ulsmil
    e,
    Ifeel l
    i
    kedri
    vi
    ngther
    e
    rightnowbutI '
    ll
    waitti
    lltomorr
    ow
    goodni ght

    MJ"

    Ibl
    ushthenrepl
    y"Iwoul
    dlov
    etoseey
    ou
    butIcan'
    t"
    Hi
    m-"Idonott
    akenof
    orananswermy
    l
    ady"
    Me-" I
    'm seri
    ousMJ, t
    hisweekendiwas
    supposet ospenditenti
    rel
    ywithTasha,
    yesterdaywewentoutwi thyouandkhaya
    thentodaywedi dn'
    thave"us"ti
    measwe
    weref ocusedonmydat ewithyou,t
    here'
    s
    onlytomor r
    owleftforustospendti
    meas
    wepl anned"
    Hereadsthemessagebutdoesn'
    trepl
    y,I
    hopeIdi
    dn'tof
    fendhi
    m.IgotoSipho's
    cont
    actandsendhim amessage.
    "Il
    oveyoualotSiphoj
    ustal
    way
    sknowt
    hat
    andI'
    mt r
    ulysor
    ry"
    MJr epl
    ies"
    okIunder
    standsl
    eept
    ight
    pr
    incess"
    Iplacemyphoneunderthepill
    owaft
    er
    savingMJ'snumberIwonderwherehegot
    mine,It
    rul
    yhopeSiphoforgi
    vesmecause
    I'
    m nowsomeone'sgirl
    fr
    iend.
    ~
    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Mysi sterisgrowi ngup, i


    tisnotthatIdon't
    wanthert ogrowupIj ustdon'twantany
    boysnearhercauseIdon' tthinkI'
    ll
    beabl e
    tobest r
    ongf orherwhenshegetherhear t
    broken, Mbalidoesn' tknowt hisbutgr owing
    upbei nganol derbr otherImadeal otof
    sacri
    ficesf orherbecauseIl ov eher,
    when
    shewas13ncami t
    ol dust hatMbal ii
    s
    desti
    nedf orgreatthingsandherexi stence
    i
    st her easonourki ngdom keepspr osper i
    ng,
    Iwas15, somyuncl ebei nggr eedytri
    ed
    kil
    li
    ngdadsohecanhav ethet hr
    oneto
    himselfbutmbal enhle'sexistenceresulted
    tohimf ai
    li
    ngdi smallyanduncl efoundout
    thatMbal iisthereasonbehi ndhi sfai
    lure
    sohepl annedonki ll
    ingherf ir
    standhe
    succeededwi tht hepoi sont hatsends
    someonet oeter nal sleep, Iwast heonl y
    onewhocoul dsav eherasI '
    m heronl y
    sibli
    ngandIsur edi dn'tmi nd,Ncami
    connect edusact uallysheconnect edmet o
    hersi ncei tisonl ymewhocanf eel what
    shef eel s,
    whenshecr i
    esIf eelit
    ,whenshe' s
    i
    npai nIf eelit,
    whenshei shappyIf eel i
    tbut
    shedoesn' tf
    eel any thingIf eel..
    ohandt he
    sacr i
    ficeIwast alkingaboutt heoneIhad
    todot obr ingherbackt othel andoft he
    l
    ivingI ..
    let'
    sjustsayISi phosenkosi can
    nev erhav eki ds.Ipl eadedmypar ent stolet
    Mbal ibet heonenextt ot hronesi nceI
    won' tbeabl etogi vet heki ngdom t henex t
    kingaf terme, theysai dt henextki ngaf ter
    mewi llbeMbal i
    'sf i
    rstsonandt heyal so
    askedi fNcami coul dr everset hissacr if
    ice
    butshesai difshedosoi twil
    lresultto
    Mbal idy i
    ngandal sosaidt hatt
    here'sonly
    oneper sonwhocoul dhelpme,thenext
    AVATARQueen, nokingdom hasbeen
    blessedwi t
    hanAVATARQueenf or300
    yearssoIguessIhav etof i
    ndawomen
    whodoesn' twantki dsandmar ryhercause
    Icannotl eadwi t
    houtaQueen.Sowhen
    Mbal iwaski dnappedi ntheselast5y ears
    shehadal otofmi xedfeeli
    ngsmost l
    y
    confusionandshewasnev erhappyand
    thattookat ol
    l onmewhi chiswhyI '
    m not
    readyf orhert odate,IknowI '
    m beinga
    l
    ittl
    esel fi
    shbutIam notr eadytostayupat
    nightandcr ythesamet ear smysisteris
    cryi
    ng.
    ~
    ThemessageMbal i
    sentmey esterday
    nightsti
    ll
    doesn' tgivemepeaceIev en
    call
    edChr i
    st ocheckuponherandher
    fri
    end,hecalledbackandsai dt heyarefine
    andt heyj
    ustwentt othemal l.Ireal
    lywant
    tocallherandaskabouthermessage
    becauseIcan' thelpbutf eelasifthere'
    s
    somet hi
    ngmor etoitplusIreal l
    ymi ssher
    butifIcallherwhatwi llIsayifsheasksme
    whyIdon' twanthert odat e?ThatIam a
    selfi
    shbrother,we'vejustgotherback, the
    thoughtofherf all
    inginlovehasn' tsunkinI
    j
    ustneedal i
    ttl
    emor ebitoftime.
    Dad:
    Sipho!
    Me:
    Dad!
    Dad:
    comei
    t'
    sti
    mef
    ory
    ourf
    inal
    task!
    Me:
    I'
    m comi
    ng!
    Irepl
    ytoMbali'
    stext"
    Ilov
    ey out
    oo,
    Idonot
    knowwhaty ouaresorr
    yforbutwewil
    ltal
    k
    aboutitwhenIcomebackt omor
    row"
    Ileav
    emyphonei
    nmybedt
    henexi
    tmy
    room.
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    MeandTashahav ebeenshoppingfort
    he
    l
    ast2hour sbutwefir
    stwenttowat cha
    mov i
    et hengotl
    unchthenwestartedonthe
    shoppingandnowwear ef
    ini
    shedwear e
    goingbackhome.
    Tasha:
    fr
    iendt
    ell
    mewhyy
    ouhav
    enev
    er
    tol
    dmeaboutChr i
    s?
    Me:
    whatabouthi
    m?
    Tasha:
    iam si
    ngl
    eandhei
    shotandmyt
    ype
    ofcoff
    ee
    Me:*
    smil
    i
    ng*andher
    eIt
    houghty
    ouhadan
    ey
    eforKhay
    a.
    Her:
    ahhhcomeony
    oucannotcombi
    ne
    cr
    azywithcr
    azy
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    Ithi
    nkcr
    azygoesv
    erywel
    l
    wi
    thcr
    azy.
    Shelaughsasweconti
    nuewi
    thour
    conv
    er sat
    iont
    il
    lwear
    ri
    vehome.
    Her
    :Iam soti
    redI
    '
    mj ustgonnat
    akea
    bat
    h,eatt
    hengostrai
    ghttobed*
    shesay
    s
    wal
    kingtothebat
    hroom*
    Myphoner
    ingsi
    t'
    sMJ/
    /
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    Hi
    m:mybeaut
    if
    ulf
    lower
    Me:*bl
    ushing*I
    '
    m act
    ual
    l
    ymyf
    ami
    l
    y's
    beauti
    ful
    flower
    .
    Hi
    m:andmi
    net
    oo,
    howwasy
    ourday
    ?
    Me:i
    twasgr
    eatI
    '
    mjustt
    ir
    edhowabout
    your
    s?
    Him:i
    twassadcauseIdi
    dn'
    tseeyouandI
    missyoubutonl
    yafewhourslef
    tti
    l
    lIsee
    you
    Me:wellMRMkhizeIthi
    nkbynowy ouknow
    thatIl
    ovemyjobsoIhopeIwon'tbe
    dist
    urbedwhi
    l
    ewor ki
    ng.
    Hi
    m: Iai
    n'
    tpr
    omi
    si
    ngany
    thi
    ngmydear
    pr
    incess.
    Wet alkf
    oranent i
    rehour,ent
    ir
    ehourof
    blushi
    ng,af
    terthecallIal
    sotakeabathwe
    theneatthetakeawayswebr oughtt
    hengo
    strai
    ghtt
    obedbutbef oresleepi
    ngIcheck
    themessageIgotwhi
    l
    ewewer est
    il
    latt
    he
    mallandIsl
    eepwit
    hasmileonmyface
    aft
    erseei
    ngitwasmybrot
    her.
    .
    #meanwhi
    l
    e
    Sanelei
    spaci
    ngupanddownashecannot
    reachNsi
    kaonhi
    sphone.
    Him:
    wherethef
    uckar
    ey ou?Ihopeyouar
    e
    onyourwaywit
    hmyladyandpickupyour
    goddamnphone//
    Hecont
    inuespaci
    ngupanddown.
    Him:whereishe?di
    dhechickenout
    ?Noiti
    s
    unl
    ikehim healwaysgett
    hejobdone.
    Hedeci
    dest
    opat
    ient
    lywai
    tforNsi
    ka.
    Whil
    eNsika'
    sbodyl
    i
    esdeadi
    nabushj
    ust
    out
    sideJo'
    burg.
    .
    ~inser
    t20~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    NATASHASMITH!IswearI
    '
    m goi
    ngt
    o
    l
    eav
    eyoubehi
    nd!
    Her
    :2mi
    nut
    es!
    !!
    *sheshout
    sfr
    om my
    r
    oom*
    Iwal
    koutt
    obab'
    zondi
    .
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*goodmor
    ningbaba
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    esback*
    goodmor
    ningmychi
    l
    d.
    Me:I
    '
    mr eal
    l
    ysor
    ryt
    hatIdi
    dn'
    treachoutt
    o
    yousoon
    Him:t
    hefactthatyoudidreachoutsoot
    hes
    myheart
    ,mayIpl easeusethebathr
    oom
    befor
    ewel eave?
    Thesepeopl
    ereal
    l
    ywantust
    obel
    ate
    Me:yesyoumaybaba,uhm goi
    nsi
    deyou'
    ll
    seeay oungladyi
    nther
    eshewil
    lshowyou
    thebathroom.
    Her
    ushesinsi
    de,hemustreal
    lyneedtouse
    t
    hebat
    hroom.IopenthebackseatandMJ
    j
    umpsinfi
    rstandlayont
    heotherside.
    Me:MJno,
    usethefr
    ontseatTashai
    sthe
    onewhowil
    lseatt
    here.
    Herai
    seshi
    sheadtol
    ookatmet
    hengoes
    backt
    oli
    cki
    nghisf
    ur.
    Me:
    *poi
    nti
    ngathi
    m*MJIsweari
    fyoudon.
    .
    Tasha:
    whoar
    eyout
    alki
    ngt
    o?
    Me:
    argnoone.
    Igeti
    nignor
    ingher,
    shewalksar
    oundto
    hersi
    deandMJi sn'
    tmovi
    ngIlookathi
    m
    wit
    hpleadi
    ngeyesbutheisn'
    tbugdi
    ng,
    Tashatr
    iest
    oseatbutseatsonMJshe
    qui
    cklyj
    umpsout.
    Her
    :whatwast
    hat
    ?
    Me:
    whatwaswhat
    ?
    Her:
    IswearIsatont
    opofsomet
    hing
    *f
    reaki
    ngout*
    IlookatMJwi t
    hpleadi
    ngeyesagai
    n,
    heget
    offtheseatandlayonmyfeeteyi
    t'
    sbet
    ter
    thannothi
    ng.
    Me:
    ther
    e'snot
    hingher
    ebabe.
    Her
    :I'
    m notcr
    azyMbal
    iIf
    eltsomet
    hing
    f
    ury
    .
    Bab'zondi
    showsupandhandmet
    hehouse
    keys.
    Hi
    m:nowshal
    lwe?
    Hegetsint
    hedr
    iver
    'sseatandIl
    ookat
    Tasha.
    Me:
    babepl
    easewearegoi
    ngt
    obel
    ate,
    t
    her
    eisnot
    hingher
    e.
    Shegetsinwi thhesitat
    ionandbab'zondi
    star
    tstheignit
    ionwi t
    hMJwhokeeps
    mov i
    nghistail
    ,ifhedoesn'tstopmov i
    ngit
    ,i
    t
    will
    landonTasha' slegswhi chwil
    lfr
    eak
    heroutmor e.IlookatMJwi thadeadstar
    e
    andhestopsmov i
    nghistailwowIshould
    usemydeadst aremor eoften.
    ~~
    Iwalkinmyoffi
    ceandf i
    ndabunchof
    fl
    owersonewoul dswearmyoffi
    ceisa
    fl
    owerstor
    e,Ipr
    ayandhopei twasn'
    t
    sanel
    ewhosentt hesefl
    ower
    s.While
    walki
    ngaroundlookingf
    ort
    hecardhis
    col
    ognefil
    lsupthewholeoff
    iceandhe
    at
    tacksmewi
    thahugf
    rom t
    heback
    makingmebl
    ush.
    Hi
    m:mor
    ningbeaut
    if
    ulf
    lower
    .
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*mor
    ning
    Him:
    *sti
    llhol
    dingme*doy
    oul
    i
    ket
    he
    f
    lowers?
    Ohi
    twashi
    m.
    Hi
    m:causei
    fyoudon'
    tIcant
    aket
    hem back
    t
    othestor
    e.
    Me:
    nodon'
    tIl
    ovet
    hem,
    theyar
    ejustso
    many.
    Hel
    etsgoandIt
    urnar
    oundt
    ofi
    ndhi
    m
    smi
    l
    ing.
    Hi
    m:y
    oul
    ookbeaut
    if
    ul.
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    thanky
    ou
    Hi
    m:*
    taki
    ngadeepbr
    eat
    h*doy
    ouf
    eel
    that
    ?
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:pri
    vacy
    ,there'
    snokhay
    awi
    thhi
    sst
    upi
    d
    f
    il
    m*rol
    lshi
    sey es*
    Me:
    what
    'shef
    il
    mingbyt
    heway
    ?
    Hi
    m:U.
    .
    Tasha:IknewI'
    l
    lfindyouher
    e*walks
    i
    nside*wow, It
    hinkiti
    sti
    meIalsofi
    nda
    man* l
    ookingaround*
    MJ:
    mybr
    otheri
    sav
    ail
    abl
    e
    Tasha:
    notyoutoo*l
    ooki
    ngathi
    m witha
    boredf
    ace*yourfat
    heri
    slooki
    ngforyou.
    MJ:ohyeah*hel
    ooksatme*I
    '
    llseey
    ou
    dur
    ingl
    unch.
    Ismil
    eandnod,
    heki
    ssesmyf
    oreheadt
    hen
    l
    eaves.
    Tasha:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Lov
    eisi
    ntheai
    rIsee
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    vedeci
    dedt
    ogi
    vei
    tashot
    .
    Shesmi
    l
    es.
    Her
    :ohIj
    ustgotacall
    from Amahl
    eyoht
    he
    wayshewascryi
    ngitwassohurtf
    ul
    Me:
    whati
    sthemat
    ter
    ?Whywasshecr
    ying?
    Her:
    Nsi
    kawasf
    oundi
    nabusht
    hismor
    ning
    dead
    Me:*
    shocked*what
    ???Whathappenedt
    o
    hi
    m?
    Her:Ial
    sodon'
    tknowbutshesaiditi
    sall
    overmediawewi l
    lfi
    ndanswer
    stherebut
    fornowIhaveworktodo,I'
    l
    lseeyoulat
    er.
    Shewalksoutleavingmest i
    ll
    shockedand
    wit
    hlot
    sofquest ionsImeany est
    erday
    ni
    ghtMJwasoutofsi t
    eandIthoughthe
    wasouthunti
    ng, couldhebetheonewho
    ki
    ll
    edNsika?Forwhat ?IlookatMJwhoi s
    r
    elaxedonmycouch,Iwal
    karoundt
    he
    t
    ableandtakeaseatt
    hencal
    lmom//
    Mom:
    mor
    ningsunf
    lower
    Me:
    mor
    ningmom
    Her
    :youdon'
    tsoundsogr
    eat
    ,what
    's
    bot
    heri
    ngyou?
    Me:
    doyourememberNsi
    ka?TheguyIsai
    d
    MJscr
    atched?
    Her
    :yeahwhat
    'swr
    ongwi
    thhi
    m?
    Me:
    hewasf
    ounddeadt
    hismor
    ning
    Her
    :ohpoort
    hing,
    whathappenedt
    ohi
    m?
    Me:mom MJwasnowheretobeseenthe
    wholeni
    ghty
    est
    erdayandthi
    smorninga
    manMJoncescratchedi
    sfounddeadina
    bush.
    Her
    :wai
    tyout
    hinkMJi
    stheonewhoki
    l
    led
    hi
    m?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknowmay
    be.
    Her:
    honeythere'sstil
    laloty ouneedt o
    l
    earnaboutyourj aguar,yourjaguarcan
    scr
    atchsomeoneorev enputt hem tocoma
    buti
    twill
    nev erkil
    lwithouty ourgoahead
    meaningitonlykill
    sifyout ell
    itto.
    Me:
    meani
    nghedi
    dn'
    tki
    l
    lhi
    m?
    Her
    :i
    fyoudi
    dn'
    ttel
    lhi
    mtot
    henno.
    Isi
    ghi
    nrel
    i
    ef
    Me:
    oht
    hankgod.
    Her:
    wel
    lIhav
    etogowewi
    l
    ltal
    klat
    er,
    Il
    ove
    you
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oo/
    /
    NowIcanworkinpeaceknowingthatMJ
    di
    dn'
    tki
    ll
    him butIwonderwhodidmaybe
    hewasmugged.Iopenmycomputer,
    connectwi
    thourcompany'
    sWi
    FiandI'
    m
    greet
    edbytheheadl
    ine:
    -
    "AWELLKNOWNARCHI TECTNSI KAYETHU
    NGUBOWASFOUNDDEADTHI SMORNI NG
    I
    NABUSHOUTSI DEJO'
    BURGWI TH4
    BULLETHOLESONHI SFACE,
    2OFTHEM
    WENTTHROUGHBOTHEYES, 1WENT
    THROUGHTHEMOUTHANDCAMEOUT
    ATTHEBACKTHENTHELASTONEWENT
    THROUGHRIGHTBETWEENTHEEYES, HIS
    DEATHISSTILLBEI
    NGINVESTIGATED"
    Ohmygodwhowoul
    ddosuchat
    hing?Thi
    s
    wor
    ldi
    ssocr
    uel
    .
    .
    I
    t'
    snowlunch,Tashawenttomeetupwith
    AmahleandI'
    m wait
    ingf
    orMJwi t
    hlunch
    hehasbeengoneforwaytoolongandI'
    m
    real
    l
    yhungr
    y,hi
    sPAwal
    ksi
    nwi
    thout
    knocki
    ng
    Her:MJasksforyout
    ocometohisoff
    ice
    forl
    unch*shesay
    swithal
    otofat
    tit
    ude
    andwalksout*
    Shejuststartedworki
    ngf orMJtodayand
    al
    readyshe'scalli
    nghim bynameandshe
    hasgott olosethi
    satti
    tudeofherscausei
    t
    won'ttakeheranywherenxx, myphone
    ri
    ngsasImakemywayoutohgodi t'
    s
    sanele//
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    Hi
    m:di
    dyourbr
    otherki
    l
    lhi
    m?
    Ai
    bo
    Me:
    mybr
    other
    ??Ki
    l
    lwho?
    Hi
    m:Nsi
    ka
    Me:
    *shocked*what
    ?Whywoul
    dSi
    phoki
    l
    l
    Nsi
    ka?
    Hi
    m:yourbrot
    heri
    saf
    ormergangl
    eaderso
    i
    t'
    spossi
    ble.
    WHAT?
    Me:thenameofmybr ot
    heri
    sSiphosenkosi
    Mthembunowar eyousureyouaretal
    king
    abouthim causeIt
    hinkyouhavemadea
    mistake.
    Hi
    m:*chuckl
    es*ohsoyoumeantotel
    lme
    t
    haty
    oudonotknowt haty
    ourdearbr
    other
    i
    sagangster
    Me:eveni
    fheisonewhywouldhekil
    l Nsi
    ka
    causehedoesn'
    tevenknowhim?Andhow
    doyouknowNsikawhatisyourr
    elat
    ionshi
    p
    wit
    hhim?
    Her
    emai
    nsqui
    etf
    orawhi
    l
    e
    Him:thosequesti
    onsdoesnotmat
    terj
    ust
    tel
    lmewher ey
    ourbrot
    heri
    ssoIcanask
    him my sel
    f.
    Me:actual
    lyt
    hesequestionsmatt
    ertome
    andwhyshoul dItel
    lyouwhereheis?*
    Iask
    thatwalki
    nginMJ'soffi
    cewitht
    hisPA
    givi
    ngmeabadl ookmxx*
    Hi
    m:becauseyouwouldn'
    twantyourdear
    br
    othert
    ospendtherestofhi
    sli
    feinjai
    l
    Jai
    l
    ?Howdi
    dwegett
    othat
    ?
    Me:buthedi
    dn'tdoany
    thi
    ng*
    thatcomes
    outasawhisper*
    MJi
    slooki
    ngatmeasi
    fhei
    sst
    udy
    ingme.
    Sanele:
    saysthesamepersonwhodidnot
    evenknowherbr ot
    heri
    sagangsterbut
    si
    ncey oudonotwanttotellmehi
    s
    whereaboutsI'
    l
    lfi
    ndhim mysel
    fohandso
    y
    ouknowmymi
    ssi
    oni
    sst
    il
    lon/
    /
    Hehangsup.Whatmissi
    onishetalki
    ng
    about
    ?Siphoi
    sagangster
    ?ArgI'l
    lj
    ustask
    hi
    m whenIgethomeI'
    m pret
    tysurehe'
    son
    hi
    swaybacknow.
    MJ:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Iseatnextt
    ohi
    m ont
    hecouch
    Me*si
    gh*sanel
    ecl
    aimst
    hatmybr
    other
    ki
    l
    ledNsika.
    Hi
    m:Nsi
    ka?
    ?
    Me:
    theguywhoi
    sal
    lov
    ert
    hesoci
    almedi
    a.
    Him:ohhthesameguywhowaslooki
    ngat
    youasifyouaresomepi
    eceofmeatatt
    he
    r
    estaurant
    .
    Me:
    yeah
    Hi
    m:ahhgoodr
    iddent
    obadr
    ubbi
    sh
    Me:
    MJ!
    !
    MJt
    hej
    aguarqui
    ckl
    yrunst
    ome.
    Me:
    noty
    oubuddyr
    elax
    MJ:
    whoar
    eyout
    alki
    ngt
    o?
    Il
    ookathi
    m ahhgod.
    Me:
    uhm t
    hat
    '
    sast
    oryf
    oranot
    herday
    .
    Him:
    errasl
    ongasy
    ouar
    enotcr
    azyt
    hen
    oky
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    don'
    twor
    ryI
    '
    m al
    lgood.
    Hi
    m:youbet
    terbenoweatandst
    op
    wor
    ryi
    ngaboutdeaduni
    mport
    antpeopl
    e.
    Ishakemyheadandst
    arteat
    ing.
    MJ:
    evenchewi
    ngsui
    tsy
    ou
    Me:
    pleaseeaty
    ourf
    oodandst
    opl
    ooki
    ngat
    mychewing
    Hi
    m:Ican'
    thel
    pit
    .
    Hi
    sPAwal
    ksi
    n,
    agai
    nwi
    thoutknocki
    ng
    Her
    :MJ
    MJ:i
    t'
    sMrMkhi
    zet
    oyou*
    hesay
    sbi
    ti
    ngon
    hi
    sburger
    *
    Ilookatthi
    sladyactual
    lystudyi
    ngher,
    she
    i
    sbeaut i
    ful
    Igiveherthat,
    shehasagr eat
    bodywi t
    haf ai
    rskincol
    orandshei s
    drool
    ingIdon'tknowifshei sdrool
    i
    ngover
    theburgerMJi seati
    ngorov erMJ.
    MJ:
    howmayhel
    pyou?
    Shecomesbackt
    ohersenses.
    Her
    :ohI
    '
    vecamet
    oaskf
    orMrZul
    u'
    sfi
    l
    e
    MJ:
    buti
    t'
    sst
    il
    ll
    unch
    Her
    :act
    ual
    l
    ylunchi
    sov
    er.
    Il
    ookatmywat
    chshe'
    sri
    ghtl
    unchhas
    beenov
    erf
    orabout6mi
    n.
    Me:I
    '
    llf
    inishthi
    sinmyof
    fi
    ce*
    taki
    ngmy
    l
    eft
    overlunch*
    MJstandsupthenhelpsmestanduptoo
    andbri
    ngmeclosertohim wi
    thhi
    shands
    onmywaist.
    Hi
    m:IguessI
    '
    llseey
    ouaf
    terwor
    k
    Me:
    whati
    fyourf
    atherwal
    ksi
    nri
    ghtnow?
    Hi
    m:t
    henhewi
    l
    lhav
    etowat
    chusdot
    his
    Me:
    dowhat
    ?
    Heat t
    acksmewithaki
    sswhichIgladl
    y
    respondtoo,
    hebr
    eaksi
    tthensmil
    eandI
    smileback.
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lseey
    ouaf
    terwor
    k.
    It
    urnbackandf i
    ndhisPAlooki
    ngatusI
    al
    mostforgotabouther
    ,Iwalkoutt
    hengo
    tomyof f
    icewit
    hasmi l
    e.Iopenthedoor
    andMJget sinfi
    rstIfol
    lowbehindhimthen
    closet
    hedoorandl eanoni twi
    thasmile.
    "
    Mbal
    enhl
    ear
    eyoudat
    ing"
    Myheadqui
    ckl
    ytur
    ns,
    IseeSi
    phoseat
    ed
    onmycouchwit
    hanemoti
    onl
    essf
    ace.
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t21~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Helooksatmewai t
    ingf
    orananswer,
    honest
    lyIdon'
    tknowwhattosayri
    ghtnow
    yeahwhenIsentthatmessageonSat
    urday
    ni
    ghtIpl
    annedontell
    inghim whenhe
    comesbackthatI
    'm dat
    ingbutnowI'
    m not
    sosurei
    fIshoul
    dtellhi
    m ornot.
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m wai
    ti
    ngf
    orananswer
    .
    Me:
    I.
    .I
    ..
    Hi
    m:y
    ou?
    ?
    Il
    ookdownpl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thmyf
    inger
    s
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    llt
    aket
    hatasay
    es.
    Hesay
    sst
    andi
    ngupwal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dsme
    Hi
    m:coul
    dyoumov
    e,y
    ouar
    eint
    heway
    .
    Ijustst
    andst i
    llasastatuebecauseI '
    m so
    confusedrightnowespeci all
    ysinceIcan'
    t
    readhisfaceIdon'tknowwhet herheis
    disappoi
    ntedorangryIcan' tgetanythi
    ng.
    Hegent l
    yputhishandsonmyshoul ders
    andmov emet otheside,opensthedoor
    t
    henwal
    kout
    .
    Isi
    ghandgettowhatIgetpai
    dforbutmy
    mindi
    sn'
    there.
    .
    MJ:ist
    her
    eany
    thi
    ngy
    ouwantmet
    odof
    or
    you?
    Me:noIjustwanttogohomeandt
    alkt
    omy
    br
    otherbutIcoulduseahug.
    Hedoesn'
    thesi
    tat
    ehej
    ustcr
    ushesmewi
    th
    ahug.
    Him:j
    udgingbyhowhi ghl
    yy ouspeakof
    yourbrotherandthewayy ouarereact
    ing
    nowi tl
    ooksy oureallylov
    ehi m somuch
    andthatisagr eatthingbutpleasedon't
    breakupwi thme, pleasetalktohim andtr
    y
    tomakehi m underst andthatyouare
    growingup.
    Il
    ookuptohi
    m st
    il
    li
    nhi
    sar
    mshesounds
    sosi
    ncer
    e.
    Me:
    ifhedoesn'
    tappr
    ovemet
    odat
    ewi
    l
    lyou
    wai
    tforme?
    Hecl
    oseshi
    sey
    est
    henopent
    hem.
    Hi
    m:y
    esIwi
    l
    l
    Me:*
    smili
    ng*t
    hanks,
    Ishoul
    dgetgoi
    ngnow
    bab'
    zondii
    swait
    ingforme.
    Him:okwewi l
    ltal
    klat
    eront
    he
    phone.*
    let
    ti
    ngmego*
    Me:
    okby
    e.
    Ibabyki
    sshi
    mthenwal
    ktobab'
    zondi
    .
    Bab'
    zondi
    :Ial
    mostcamet
    osear
    chf
    ory
    ou.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    ryIj
    ustgothel
    dup.
    Isaygett
    ingatt
    hebackwit
    hMJwithmy
    thought
    srunni
    ngwil
    d,whati
    fSi
    phodoesn'
    t
    approv e?MJsai dhe' llwai t
    ,butwhati fhe
    getstiredandf i
    ndsomeoneel se?Si pho
    hasdoneal otoft hingsf orme, growingup
    whenIusedt ogetsi ckhewoul dsneaki nt
    o
    myr oom atnightt omakesur et hatI'
    m st i
    l
    l
    okandendupsl eepi nginmyr oom say ing
    hewantt ogetsickwi thmeandhewoul d
    al
    way scov erupf ormewhenev erIdo
    somet hingwrong, takingt heblameand
    endsupbei ngpuni shedf ormywr ongsand
    helov esmesomuchI '
    veseent hat,
    even
    wheni wasNokwandaIsawhowmuchl ove
    hehasf ormewhenhespokeaboutme, so
    i
    fhedoesn' tappr ov eformet odat ey etMJ
    will
    hav etounder st andandwai tforme
    becauseIdon' twantt ogoagai nstmy
    brotherandseem ungr ateful.
    Wear
    ri
    veathome.
    Me:
    goodby
    ebabaI
    '
    llseey
    out
    omor
    row.
    Hi
    m:goodby
    e.
    Islowl
    ywal kinsi
    deplayi
    ngwit
    hmyf i
    ngersI
    fi
    ndhim attheloungeindeepthoughtsnow
    wheredoi start
    ?Itakeadeepbreathand
    standnexttohim
    Me:
    Sipho.
    Hedoesn'
    tmov
    eorsayany
    thi
    ng.
    It
    rytotouchhi
    m buthest
    andsupand
    walksawayfr
    om me.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    ry!
    Hest andsst i
    l
    l wi
    thhisbackfacingmeand
    myt earsstreamingdown, att
    hispointI
    havenoi deawhatI 'm apol
    ogizi
    ngforcause
    Ican'tapologizeforfal
    li
    ngforMJ.
    Me:
    youknowIdon'
    tfunct
    ionwel
    lwheny
    ou
    aren'
    ttal
    ki
    ngt
    omesot
    ell
    mewhatIshoul
    d
    do.
    Het
    urnswit
    hhisey
    esr edandwal
    ksback
    t
    omet henwi
    pemyt earswi
    thhi
    sthumbs.
    Hi
    m:pl
    easedon'
    tcr
    y
    Inod
    Hi
    m:Idonotwanty
    out
    odat
    eyet
    .
    Il
    ookdownast
    ear
    sst
    artbui
    l
    dingupagai
    n
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Hi
    m:Ican'
    ttel
    lbutsi
    spl
    easej
    ustnoty
    et
    Me:
    i
    fnoty
    ett
    henwhen?
    Hi
    m:at
    leastaf
    tery
    ourbi
    rt
    hday
    .
    Ir
    aisemyhead
    Me:
    mybi
    rt
    hdayi
    sin6weeks
    Hi
    m:y
    eaht
    hatwi
    l
    lbeenought
    imef
    orme
    t
    o..
    uhh
    Me:
    towhat
    ?
    Him:i
    t'snoti
    mportantj
    ustpr omi
    semef or
    these6weeksy ouwill
    distanceyoursel
    f
    withtheboyyouaredating,i
    fhel
    ov esyou
    hewi l
    lwait
    .
    6weeksdoesn'
    tseem badpl
    usMJal
    so
    sai
    dhewil
    lwait
    .
    Me:
    okIpr
    omi
    se
    Hi
    m:*
    huggi
    ngme*
    thanky
    ou
    Me:*
    breaki
    ngthehug*nowthatwearecool
    shal
    lwesitdownIwanttot
    alktoyou
    Hi
    m:ohboy
    ,IswearIdi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ng
    Me:
    butIhav
    en'
    tsai
    dany
    thi
    ng
    Herol
    l
    shiseyesandwesi
    tdown.Idon'
    t
    knowhowtoaskthi
    ssoI'
    mjustgonnaput
    i
    toutt
    her
    e.
    Me:
    arey
    ouagangst
    er?
    Hi
    sey
    espopout
    .
    Hi
    m:what
    ?Wherei
    sthatquest
    ioncomi
    ng
    f
    rom?Whotol
    dyouthat
    ?
    Me:What ,Wher
    eandWho, 3questi
    onsin
    onesentencewhil
    eI'
    mjustl
    ookingfora
    yesorno.
    Hi
    m:Ican'
    tt.
    ..
    Me:Si
    phoifyouareagangsterIwon'
    tjudge
    you,
    becauseyouprobabl
    yhaveyourreason
    whysopleasebehonestwit
    hme.
    Hi
    m:*si
    ghi
    ng*y
    esIam af
    ormergang
    l
    eader
    Sanel
    ewast
    ell
    i
    ngt
    het
    rut
    h.
    Me:
    hav
    eyouev
    erki
    l
    ledsomeone
    Hi
    m:*
    mov
    inguneasy
    *er
    ryeah
    Me:
    *shocked*howmanyhav
    eyouki
    l
    led?
    Ihav
    enoi deawhyIam aski
    ngt
    hat
    ,hel
    ooks
    upasifheisthi
    nki
    ngwait.
    ..
    Me:
    Siphouy
    abal
    a?!(
    Arey
    oucount
    ing?
    !)
    Him:
    may beIshoul
    dn'
    ttel
    lyouhowmany
    ,
    nowpleaseanswermyquesti
    ons.
    Howmanypeopl ehasheki
    ll
    ed?Isi
    ghand
    t
    ell
    him aboutsanel
    e'
    scal
    l.
    Hi
    m:*
    confused*whoisNsi
    ka?AndIwasat
    t
    hevi
    ll
    agesinceFr
    idayy
    ouknowthat
    Me:yesIdobutsanel
    edoesn'
    t,
    het
    hinks
    youkil
    ledNsi
    ka
    Him:Idon'
    tevenknowNsikaorthi
    sother
    dudey ouar
    etalki
    ngabout,
    maybeiti
    sone
    ofmyenemi esandtheyar
    eusingother
    namesIdon'
    tknowbutIser
    iousl
    ydonot
    knowNsikanorSanel
    e.
    Hewi
    peshi
    sfor
    eheadi
    nfr
    ust
    rat
    ion
    Hi
    m:gi
    vemet
    hisSanel
    eguy
    'snumber
    .
    Igi
    veittohimthenleavehim makinga
    phonecall
    ,
    Igoattheki t
    chenandcook
    somethi
    ngquickchickencurryandrice,
    I
    l
    eavethepotsonthest oveandgot akea
    qui
    ckbathMJi sallovertheplacehemust
    beplayi
    ngwithSJ.MJcal lsasImakemy
    waybacktothekitchen//
    Me:
    hey
    Hi
    m:mybeaut
    if
    ulf
    lowerhowar
    eyou?
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    I'
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Hi
    m:Imi
    ssy
    ou
    Ncohei
    shl
    etmej
    ustt
    ell
    him
    Me:
    Iuhm It
    alkedt
    oSi
    pho
    Hi
    m:and.
    .?
    Me:
    uhm hesay
    sIshoul
    dwai
    t
    Hi
    m:*
    sil
    ence*
    Ir
    emovemyphonefrom myear
    ,hei
    sst
    il
    l
    onthel
    i
    neIt
    henplacei
    tback
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    Hi
    m:f
    orhowl
    ong
    Me:
    6weeks
    Hi
    m:ok/
    /
    Hedropsthecal
    l
    ,okt
    hatwascol
    d,maybe6
    weeksisalongt
    imetohi
    m whati
    fh..
    .
    Sipho:
    i
    sthefoodready
    ?Iwanttodashh
    somewherebutIwanttoeatf
    ir
    st
    Me:
    giv
    eme5mi
    nut
    es.
    Af
    ter5minut
    esIdishupandgi
    veSi
    phohi
    s
    pl
    ateandpl
    aywit
    hmyf ood.
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    *for
    cingasmi
    l
    e*y
    es
    NO
    Hi
    m:buty
    ouar
    epl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thy
    ourf
    ood
    Me:
    I'
    mjustnott
    hathungr
    y
    Hi
    m:youneversaynot
    ofoodev
    eni
    fyou
    ar
    enothungry
    Me:
    ser
    iousSi
    phoI
    '
    mfi
    ne
    Heplaceshishandatthelef
    tsideofhi
    s
    chestandkeepsrubbi
    ngitasifheisi
    npai
    n
    Me:
    arey
    ouok?What
    'swr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:y
    ourhear
    tisheav
    y
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    uhh?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m nol
    ongerhungr
    yIhav
    etogo.
    Hestandsupt aki
    nghiscarkey sandwalks
    outl
    eavingmeconf used,italr
    eady20h00I
    wonderwherehei sgoing.Itakethefood
    backtothekit
    chenandmyphoner i
    ngsit'
    s
    MJagainIsighandanswer //
    Me:
    hi
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m out
    sidecomeout
    //
    Il
    ookatmyphonei ndi sbeli
    efheisn'
    teven
    askingmenicel
    yheist ell
    i
    ngmenxx.
    AnywayIwalkoutwithMJandf indhim
    l
    eani ngonhi
    scar,
    Istandinf r
    ontofhim
    withmyhandsfolded.
    Him:
    Ijustcameher
    etosaysomethi
    ngI
    coul
    dn'tr
    eall
    ysayi
    tov
    erthephonenow
    pl
    easelookatme.
    Isl
    owl
    ylookupt
    ohi
    m.
    Hi
    m:f
    ir
    stl
    yyoul
    ookbeaut
    if
    ul
    Cheeksdon'
    tyoudareIsai
    ddon'
    tyoudar
    g
    tool
    ateI'
    m al
    readybl
    ushi
    ng.
    Him:6weeksi sashor tti
    meev enifi
    twas
    mont hsi
    twoul dhav esti
    llbeenshort
    becausey ouar eworthwaitingforandI'
    m
    prett
    ysurey ourbrothergavey ouav al
    i
    d
    reasononwhyy oushouldwaitsodon'tyou
    worryI'
    ll
    waitf oryou.
    Act
    uall
    yhedidn'
    tgiv
    emeanyr
    easonbut
    I
    'm gl
    adhe'
    l
    lwait.
    Hepullsmet owardshim andki
    ssesme
    slowl
    yforadamnl ongt
    imemakingmef eel
    unusualt
    hings,af
    tersomet i
    mehebr eaks
    theki
    ssandl etgoofmet henopenthecar
    door.
    Me:
    bye
    Ifeelsoemot i
    onal ri
    ghtnow,Iknowi tonl
    y
    been2day ssincewe' vebeent ogetherbutI
    l
    ikedhimt hefi
    rstdayIsawhi m IhopeI
    won'tlosehi
    mi nt hesecoming6weeks.I
    turnandstartwalkingbackinside
    MJ:
    ILOVEYOU!
    !
    Iqui
    ckl
    ytur
    n,hebl
    owsmeaki
    ssanddr
    ive
    away.
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    MJdr i
    vesawaywi thasmi leonhisface
    knowingthatLenhlefeelsthesamewayhe
    feel
    sabouther,itwasv i
    sibleonherfacehe
    alsowondersifLenhleknowst hathefel
    l
    forherwhil
    eshehadt hemaskont hathe
    nevercaredabouthowsher eal
    lyl
    ookslike
    thatwit
    honlyherey eshef el
    landhe
    coul
    dn'
    twaitf
    orthese6weekstoendsohe
    canbewit
    hhisladywit
    houtacar
    e.

    Whi
    l
    eSanel
    emeet
    supwi
    thhi
    sP.
    I
    P.I
    :okmanIhearyousowhoisy
    our
    suspectsoIcanf
    indoutmor
    eabouthi
    m
    Sanele:t
    hat'
    stheproblem manIhav
    eno
    suspect,Ifi
    rst
    lysuspect
    edHammerbuthe
    doesn'tevenknowNsi kaandhewasatt
    he
    vi
    ll
    aget heti
    meNsi kadied,mysour
    cet
    old
    me
    P.
    I:
    sowhatexact
    lydoy
    ouwantmet
    odo?
    Sanele:Iwanty out
    otrackev
    erylastmove
    Nsikamadesi nceSat
    urdaymorningohand
    hereishi sphoneImanagedtogetItbutI
    can'tunlockit
    .
    P.
    I:
    *taki
    ngt
    hephone*okI
    '
    llgetr
    ightt
    o
    i
    t,
    butwhatIst
    il
    ldon'
    tunder
    standi
    swhy
    y
    ouwouldwantt oki
    dnapyourownfi
    ancee.
    Sanel
    e:i
    t'
    sal
    ongst
    orymani
    tev
    eni
    nvol
    ves
    famil
    y.
    P.I
    :Iwon'
    taskanyf
    urt
    her,
    I'
    ll
    seey
    ou
    tomorrowwit
    hsomefeedback
    Sanel
    e:ok
    TheP.
    Ist
    andsupandl
    eav
    es.
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t22~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Sanel
    emetupwi t
    htheP.
    Ithenextday
    hopi
    ngthathehasgoodnewsforhim.
    Him:somanwhatdoy ouhav
    eforme?I
    hopeit'
    sgoodnews.
    P.
    I:
    wel
    lnotexact
    ly
    Hi
    m:whatdoy
    oumean?
    P.I
    :itseemsl i
    ketheper sonwhoki ll
    edhim
    knewwhathewasdoi ngbecausebasedon
    myr esearchNsikadidn'texistonSaturday,
    hewentt osomehot elonFr i
    dayandnev er
    cameoutIdon' tev enknowhowheended
    upatt hatbushthattheyf oundhim at,
    Ieven
    checkedt hehotelcamer asbutthere'
    s
    nothingit
    'sli
    kehenev erlefttheroom.
    Sanel
    e:whatar
    eyoutryi
    ngtotel
    lmeman?
    ThatNsikawasal
    readydeadonSat
    urday
    ?
    P.I
    :nohewasst i
    llal
    i
    veImanagedto
    unl
    ockhisphoneandhisl
    astcall
    wasat
    21h00onSaturdaymeani
    nghewasst i
    l
    l
    al
    i
    ve.
    Sanel
    e:whowashecal
    l
    ing?
    P.
    I:someguycal
    l
    edKay
    Sanele:
    Kay??HandmehisphonesoIcan
    cal
    lthisKaymaybehecanhelp.
    TheP.Ihandssanel
    ethephoneandsanel
    e
    di
    alsKay'scont
    act/
    /
    Kay
    :speak
    Sanel
    e:hi
    ,
    mayIknowwhoexact
    lyar
    eyou?
    ?
    Kay:
    youcal
    l
    edmear
    en'
    tyousupposet
    o
    knowwhoIam?
    Sanel
    e:y
    ouar ethelastper
    sonNsikacal
    led
    onSaturdaybeforehediedsoIwouldli
    ke
    toknowwhoy ouareandwhatexactl
    ywere
    youspeakingwithNsika?
    Kay
    :whoonear
    thdoesn'
    tknowKay
    ??Ori
    s
    mynumbernotsaved?AnywayniggaI
    won'
    ttel
    lyouanyt
    hingunt
    ily
    outellmewho
    t
    hefuckyouare?
    Sanel
    e:I
    '
    m SaneleI'
    m Nsi
    ka'
    scl
    osefr
    iend
    andI'
    mt r
    yingt
    of i
    ndoutwhoki
    ll
    edhi
    m
    Kay
    :i
    sn'
    tthatt
    hepol
    i
    ce'
    sjob?
    Sanel
    e:t
    heyar
    eal
    lj
    ustusel
    ess
    Kay:okthatprovestomethatyouain'
    tno
    poli
    ce,thi
    sNsi kaguyyout
    alkofdidcal
    lme
    seekingforhelpwithsomekidnappi
    ngfr
    om
    usand...
    Sanel
    e:byuswhoexact
    lyar
    eyout
    alki
    ng
    about
    ?
    Kay:ni
    ggayoucall
    edmel ookingfor
    i
    nformati
    onandI '
    m givi
    ngittoy ouona
    si
    lverpl
    att
    erandy ouhavet henerveto
    di
    sturbmewhi l
    eIt al
    knxx
    Sanel
    e:okcont
    inueI
    '
    llaskquest
    ionsl
    ater
    Kay
    :youdon'
    tgett
    odemandmesaypl
    ease
    Sanel
    e:y
    ouar
    ejoki
    ngr
    ight
    ?
    Kay:
    Iam manythi
    ngsbutIdon'tr
    emember
    bei
    ngacomedian*say
    ingthatcol
    dly
    *
    Sanel
    e:whoar
    eyou?
    Kay:
    andher
    eIwasthi
    nki
    ngI'
    mfamousar
    e
    yousur
    eyounev
    erheadofme?
    Sanel
    ethoughtf
    orawhi
    l
    e
    Sanel
    e:*
    eyespoppedout
    *wai
    tKayasi
    n
    KAY
    Kay:
    dingdi
    ngdi
    ngy
    ou'
    vef
    inal
    l
    yfi
    gur
    edi
    t
    out
    Sanel
    e:but
    ..
    butwhatwoul
    dNsikawant
    fr
    om youguys?*
    sti
    lli
    nshockmode*
    Kay
    :hewant
    edhel
    pandwewer
    egoi
    ngt
    o
    off
    erhi
    m hel
    pbuthewentMI
    Aonusand
    appear
    eddeadonMonday
    Sanel
    e:whati
    sitt
    hathepr
    omi
    sedt
    haty
    ou
    evenconsi
    deredt
    ohelphi
    m?
    Kay
    :R.
    Twasst
    il
    ldeci
    dingbef
    orehedi
    ed
    Sanel
    e:bu.
    ..
    Kay
    :youhav
    eranoutofy
    ourt
    imel
    i
    mit
    //
    Hehangsupleavi
    ngsanelesti
    ll
    shocked
    andbatt
    li
    ngwithhi
    sthought
    sonwhywoul d
    Nsikasi
    gnhi
    sowndeadwar r
    entandaska
    fav
    ourfr
    om R.T.
    P.
    I:sowhowasi
    t?
    Sanel
    e:Kay
    P.I
    :Iknowthati
    twasKayt hathowthe
    numberwassav edIneedhisful
    lnamesoI
    cantrackhi
    m downandf i
    ndmor eanswer
    s
    i
    fyoudi
    dn'
    tgetem
    Sanele:
    *si
    ghs*hi
    snamei
    sKayandhe'
    s
    untr
    aceable
    P.
    I:
    what
    ?Ar
    eyoudoubt
    ingme?
    Sanel
    e:no
    P.
    I:t
    henwhat
    ?
    Sabel
    e:*wi
    peshi
    sf or
    ehead*t
    hatwasKay
    asinR.T'
    sri
    ghthandman
    P.
    I:
    *shocked*WHAT!
    !!
    !?
    ??
    Sanel
    e:l
    owery
    ourv
    oicedude
    P.I
    :*
    packi
    nguphisstuf
    f*wear
    edoneher
    e
    andyoucankeepyourmoney
    Sanele:
    j
    ustl
    ikethatman?Butwehav
    en'
    t
    foundanyt
    hingsoli
    dyet
    P.I
    :Isuggesty
    oufi
    ndsomeoneel
    setohelp
    you*hestandsupandwal
    kawaybuttur
    n
    backandwal ktosanele*youknowwhat ?
    Scratchthatwewoul dn'twantanyone
    i
    nnocentdy ingjustdropallofthi
    s,
    letNsika
    restinpeaceandst ayfarfarfarawayfrom
    R.Tifyoustillval
    ueyourli
    feohandone
    mor ethi
    ngmeandy oudonotknoweach
    other,wenev ermet
    Afterthathewal ksawayleavi
    ngsanel
    e
    defeatedbutst i
    l
    l wanti
    ngtofi
    ndoutwho
    ki
    lledNsikasinceheknowsR. Tdidn'
    thav
    e
    ahandi nhismur derordi
    dhe?Hewas
    prett
    yconf used.
    .
    #1mont
    hlat
    er#

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    5weeksdownt hedr anetomor rowi t'
    s
    Fri
    day ,afterwor kwear edr i
    vi
    ngdownt o
    thev i
    llagef ormybi rt
    hday /
    return
    celebr ationt hatwi llt
    akeplacet his
    Saturday ,Icalledmam' Zumat elli
    nghert hat
    adr i
    v erwi llbepi cki ngherupt omor rowf or
    mycel ebr ati
    onIhav en'texactlyt oldhert hat
    I'
    m apr incessbutshewi l
    lfi
    gur eitoutt he
    momentshear ri
    v esatt hevil
    lage.Tasha
    won'tst opt alkingaboutt histripshei sso
    excitedshesay sshehopesshef inds
    hersel fapr ince, wel lr
    oyalti
    esar esuper
    stri
    ctt heyst atet hatr oyal
    tyonl ymar ries
    i
    ntor oy altybutourki ngdom doesn' tf oll
    ow
    thatlawy ougett omar rywhoy ourhear t
    desires, youseemom i sn'tfr
    om ar oy al
    familybutshemar ri
    edintoar oy al fami l
    y
    andy etourki ngdom i soneoft hewel l
    knownpower fulki ngdoms,soIadv i
    sed
    Tashatonotkeepherhopeshighandshe
    hasbeent r
    yingt
    omakemeandAmahl ebe
    fr
    iendsagainIdonothateAmahleallIwant
    fr
    om herisanapologybuti
    nsteadofgivi
    ng
    met hatshe'
    sgiv
    ingmeanat t
    itude.
    Myl ov eforMJhasn' tdiedinf actitkeeps
    growi ngandgr owingwi theachpassi ng
    hourwhi l
    ehi sformeseemst obedead
    al
    readyIguesshedi dn'tmeani twhenhe
    saidhel ov esme, Iguess6weekswast oo
    l
    ongf orhi mt owait,
    IguessIwasn' twor t
    h
    waiti
    ngf or.SoafterthatdayMJsai dhewi ll
    waitf ormeheal way sbl ewupmyphone
    withmor ningmessageswi shi
    ngmea
    greatdayev enatwor khewoul dlookatme
    whenwear eatmeet ingsandwi nksatme
    butaf ter2weekst hatchangedhest art
    ed
    acti
    ngst rangeandact i
    ngcol dtowar dsme
    maki ngmel osehopeaboutus, whatr eal
    ly
    brokemyhear tiswhathappenedl astweek
    soIf i
    gur edthatMJwoul dn'twantt ocome
    tomycel ebrationbutIdi dn'tknowi fkhaya
    woul dli
    ket ocomeornotsoIwentt oMJ's
    offi
    cet oaskf orkhaya'snumberandIf ound
    MJhav ingsexwi thhisPAont opofhis
    table,
    Iknewt hathewasact ingcoldly
    towar dsmebutt hatsightmademel ose
    the2%hopet hatwasl eftforus, andyou
    knowwhatIhat ethemosti tisthefactthat
    Ican'tstopl ovinghimi nsteadt hesest upi
    d
    feeli
    ngskeepsgr owing.Dur ingthedayI
    carrymyf akesmi l
    etoev eryoneandat
    nightIcr ymy selftosleepwi thMJl i
    cking
    offmyt ear sIdon' tknowi fthatisnor mal.
    Si
    phowal
    ksi
    nlooki
    ngdr
    ainedasev
    ery
    day
    .
    Me:ar
    eyousurey
    ouar
    eok?
    (I'
    m st
    art
    ingt
    o
    getworr
    ied)
    Hi
    m:yeahI
    '
    mfi
    ne*
    hesay
    sthati
    nal
    ow
    t
    one*
    Me:Siphoyouwakeupever
    y daydr
    ained
    andcomebackf r
    om workev enmore
    drai
    ned,y
    ouwakeupwithyoureyesred
    ever
    ydayasifyousl
    eptcr
    ying
    Hi
    m:*
    rai
    singhisl
    eftey
    ebr
    ow*
    youal
    sowake
    upwi
    thr
    edey es
    Me:wel
    li
    nmycaseit
    'sdi
    ff
    erentandIdon'
    t
    wakeupdrai
    nedasy
    ou
    Hi
    m:wel
    li
    nmycasei
    t'
    scompl
    i
    cat
    ed
    Me:
    i
    nwhatway
    ?
    Hi
    m:Ican'
    ttel
    l
    Me:
    youal
    way
    ssayt
    hat
    Him:
    it
    'sf
    oryourowngoodandwhyar
    en'
    t
    yousl
    eepi
    ng?
    Me:
    *Isi
    gh*I
    '
    llsl
    eepaf
    tert
    hismov
    ie.
    Hesi
    tsnextt
    omeandwewat cht
    hemov
    ie
    t
    oget
    her"Twi
    li
    ght
    :Br
    eaki
    ngDawn"
    Si
    pho:
    don'
    tyouwantt
    osl
    eepatni
    ght
    ?
    Me:
    uhhi
    t'
    sal
    readyni
    ghtbutIdowhy
    ?
    Him:
    howwi l
    lyouwheny
    ouar
    ewat
    chi
    ng
    vampi
    resatthi
    sti
    me?
    Me:*chuckl
    ing*t
    heyaren'
    tscar
    ypl
    usIcan
    handlehorr
    ormov i
    es
    Hi
    m:y
    eahr
    ight
    Ichuckl
    eandcont i
    nuewatchingaftersome
    ti
    meIgetdi st
    urbbyMJwhoj umpsont op
    ofthetabl
    eandplayswithSJ, SJlooks
    biggert
    hanMJbutl ooksli
    keanor mal
    j
    aguarwi t
    hwaitIcanseeSJIqui cklybl
    ink
    myey esrepeat
    edlywhenIstopIonl ysee
    MJ, wasthatmyimaginat
    ionor ?
    Sipho:
    ookyy
    oul
    ookshockedwer
    en'
    tyou
    expect
    inghi
    mtotr
    ansf
    ormint
    oawerewolf
    Me:
    uhh?
    ??
    Hi
    m:hej
    ust
    ,wai
    twhyar
    eyoushocked?
    Me:Iuhm *Icl
    osedmyeyes*Ithi
    nkI'
    m
    sl
    eepy*Iopenthem*I'
    l
    lseeyouinthe
    morninggoodnight
    Ist
    andup
    Hi
    m:Mbal
    i
    Me:
    yeah
    Him:
    coul
    dy.
    .nev
    ermi
    ndgoodni
    ghtIl
    ove
    youok
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oo
    Hi
    m:y
    ounol
    ongersmi
    l
    e
    If
    orceasmi
    l
    e
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m notsay
    inggi
    vemeaf
    akesmi
    l
    eit
    cool
    got
    osl
    eep*
    hef
    ocusesont
    heTV*
    Iwal
    kawaytomyroom andIhearhim wi
    th
    avoi
    cefi
    ll
    edwit
    hemoti
    onssaying"aft
    eral
    l
    i
    tismyfaul
    t"
    I
    shet
    alki
    ngtoSJaboutwhat
    'sdr
    aini
    ng
    hi
    m?Whatisi
    tthati
    shi
    sfaul
    t.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t23~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Mom: Idi
    dn'tknowwhichdr esstobuy,
    the
    pinkone,bl
    ueone,yel
    l
    owoneorr oyal
    blue
    theyalll
    ookedsobeautifulwhichi
    swhyI
    boughtthem ally
    ouwi l
    lpicktheoneyou
    l
    i
    ket
    hemost
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    youdi
    dn'
    tper
    hapsbuyabl
    ackone?
    Dad:
    yousee?It
    oldy
    outogowitht
    hatbl
    ack
    one*l
    ooki
    ngatmom wi
    thanIt
    oldyouso
    eye*
    Mom:
    i
    tlookedsosi
    mpl
    e
    Dad:
    butel
    egantandbeaut
    if
    ul
    Mom r
    oll
    sherey
    es.
    Si
    pho:
    wai
    tdady
    oual
    sowentshoppi
    ng?
    Dad:
    Idon'
    tseeapr
    obl
    em i
    nshoppi
    ngwi
    th
    mywife.
    Mom bl
    ushes
    Si
    pho:
    i
    sthatabl
    ushIsee?
    *smi
    rki
    ng*
    Dad:
    aimar
    nSi
    phol
    eav
    emywi
    feal
    one
    Mom:*
    sti
    cki
    nghrt
    oungeout*Natashamy
    chi
    l
    dareyoual
    wayst
    hisshyoryouaren'
    ta
    t
    alkat
    iveper
    son?
    Sipho:
    wuuht
    hisoneshet
    alkedal
    ltheway
    here.
    Tashagi
    vesSi
    phoadeadst
    are
    Mom:don'
    tbeshymychil
    drel
    axandenj
    oy
    your
    sel
    fwedon'tbi
    te*
    smi
    li
    ng*
    Si
    pho:
    yeahand.
    ..
    Dad:
    aimar
    nSi
    phoshutup
    MeandTashagi
    ggl
    e
    Dad:ahht
    hatsmi
    l
    efi
    nal
    l
    y*l
    ooki
    ngatme
    wit
    hasmile*
    Ican'
    thel
    pbutsmi
    l
    e.
    Mom: honeywhenexact
    lyismam'Zuma
    gonnagether?Imeanitisal
    readydar
    k
    outsi
    de
    Me:
    wel
    lI.
    .
    Thepal
    acedooropensandtheguardswalk
    i
    nwithmam'Zumaandsanel e,
    what'
    she
    doi
    ngherecauseIdon'tr
    ememberinvi
    ti
    ng
    hi
    m hel
    lnoIdon'twanthi
    m here.
    Mom:ohy
    oumustbemam'
    Zumapl
    ease
    j
    oinus
    Mam'Zumast
    andssti
    l
    llooki
    ngshockedI
    st
    andupandwalkt
    owardsher
    Me:
    mah
    Her:
    Mbal
    ier
    rImeany
    ourhi
    ghness*
    bowi
    ng
    down*
    Me:nonononopleasedon'
    tbowmahand
    pl
    easecont
    inuecal
    li
    ngmeMbali
    Her:
    *smi
    l
    es*ohIhopeyoudon'tmi
    ndt
    hatI
    camewit
    hmysonhei nsi
    sted
    Mom:y
    ouandyoursonhel
    pedmydaught
    er
    soy
    ouarebot
    hwelcomedandI'
    m sur
    emy
    daught
    erdoesn'
    tmi
    ndr
    ightsunf
    lower
    Me:*
    faki
    ngasmile*
    nonotatal
    lnowpl
    ease
    j
    oinusfordi
    nner
    The3ofussi
    tatt
    het
    abl
    eandeat
    .
    Mom:Siphogot
    ell
    thandekat
    opr
    epar
    eone
    ot
    herroom
    Si
    pho:
    whyme?
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    Mom:
    Siphosenkosi
    Mt.
    .
    Si
    pho:
    okok*
    standi
    ngup*
    Mom: onceagai
    nthanky
    ousomuchf or
    hel
    pingmydaughtermaybei
    fitwas
    someoneelsetheywoul
    dhaveref
    used
    Mam'
    Zuma:
    noneedt
    othankusmyQueen
    Mom:
    pleasecal
    lmeNomusa
    Mam'
    Zuma:
    ohIwoul
    dn'
    t
    Mom:
    Iinsi
    st
    Mam' Zumasmi lesandcont i
    nueseati
    ng.
    Siphowalksbacksmi l
    i
    ngbuthi ssmil
    e
    turnsint
    oaf r
    ownIf oll
    owhi seyesandthey
    l
    andonSanel ewhoi slooki
    ngatmeasi fhe
    i
    sundr essi
    ngmenx, Il
    ookbackatSipho
    andhel ooksatmewi t
    haconf usedl
    ookI
    alsolookathim withaconfusedlookand
    shrugmyshoul ders.
    Si
    pho:*cl
    earshist
    hroat*Ihav
    eagunwhi ch
    I
    'm notafrai
    dtouse*hesaysthatashet
    ake
    hi
    sseat *
    Mam'
    ZumaandTashachokeont
    hei
    rfood
    Dad:eidon'
    tmindhim hi
    sbei
    ngsil
    ly
    ,*he
    turnshisheadandl
    ookatSipho*
    Sipho*wit
    haf i
    rmvoi
    ce
    Si
    pho:
    *st
    ari
    ngback*Dad
    Theyhav
    eaconv
    ersat
    ionwi
    tht
    hei
    rey
    es,
    i
    t'
    s
    somet
    hingt
    heyal
    way
    sdosi
    ncewewer
    e
    sti
    l
    lki
    ds
    Dad:
    *cl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat*Sonwhatdidyou
    sayy
    ournamewas?*
    looki
    ngatsanel
    e*
    Hi
    m:Sanel
    e
    Dad:
    oksoar
    eyoumar
    ri
    ed?
    Hi
    m:uhhnoty
    etSi
    r
    Dad:
    meaningyoudopl
    anonget
    ti
    ng
    marr
    iedoneday
    Hi
    m:y
    es
    Dad:
    doy
    ouhav
    eagi
    rl
    fr
    iend?
    Ai
    boDad
    Hi
    m:noSi
    r
    Dad:y
    ouwanttogetmarr
    iedbuty
    oudon'
    t
    haveagi
    rl
    fr
    iend?Arey
    ougay?
    Ichokeonmyj
    uicewhi
    l
    eSi
    phoandTasha
    l
    aughsi
    l
    ent
    ly
    Mom:
    musal
    eav
    ethechi
    l
    dal
    one
    Sanel
    e:noi
    t'
    sokmam,noI'
    m notgaysi
    r
    andtherei
    sagi
    rlI
    '
    minter
    est
    edin
    Dad:
    whyhav
    en'
    tyouappr
    oachedher
    ?
    Him:
    *smi
    rki
    ngwhi
    l
    elooki
    ngatme*ohIwi
    l
    l
    soon
    DadandSi
    phol
    ookateachot
    hert
    hennod
    Dad:
    wel
    lgoodl
    uck*
    hedr
    inkshi
    sjui
    ce*
    MJandSJwal kdownt hestai
    rsIshutmy
    eyes,
    countto3t henopenthem andonly
    seeMJ.ThemomentMJ' seyeslandson
    saneleheracesdownt hestai
    rsIquickl
    y
    standupandbl ockhi
    m
    Me:
    woahcal
    m downboy
    Mom:
    what
    'sgoi
    ngon?
    *looki
    ngatMJt
    hen
    sanel
    e*
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*i
    t'
    sal
    ongst
    ory
    Il
    ookatTashawhoisgi
    vi
    ngmea
    weir
    d,conf
    usedl
    ook
    Me:
    mom canIt
    ell
    TashaaboutMJ?
    Mom:
    *smi
    l
    ing*ofcour
    se
    Tasha:
    whatdoy
    oumeanMJ?CauseIal
    ..
    ..
    Me:comelet
    'sgoupst
    air
    stomyr
    oom and
    youbehav
    e*looki
    ngatMJ*
    MeandTashawalktomyroom l
    eav
    ing
    mam'Zumaandhersonconf
    useda.
    f
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Amahl
    eopenst
    hedoorf
    orherf
    ri
    endLondi
    Amahl
    e:LondiIexpect
    edy
    ou3hour
    sagoI
    wasabouttogot obed
    Londi
    :
    argIwasbusynowl
    etmei
    n
    Shel
    et'
    sheri
    nandt
    heywal
    ktot
    hel
    ounge
    Amahle:
    thedi
    ckgoty
    ougoodl
    ookat
    you,
    you'
    regl
    owing
    Londi
    :
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*y
    oucoul
    dsayt
    hat
    Amahle:
    youareev
    enbl
    ushi
    ngwai
    tar
    eyou
    i
    nlov
    ewi thhi
    m?
    Londi
    :
    *si
    l
    ence*
    Amahl
    e:LONDI
    !!
    Londi
    :What ?Yousai
    dyouwant
    edhimt
    o
    fal
    loutoflovewit
    hMbali
    andhedi
    dnow
    whatmor edoyouwant
    Amahle:
    yeahIsai
    dthatbutInev
    ersai
    dfal
    l
    forhi
    m andIwon'
    tjudge,
    Iguesshedi
    dn'
    t
    r
    eall
    ylov
    eMbali
    sincehej
    ustf
    ell
    fory
    ou
    j
    ustl
    ikethat
    Londi
    :
    *pl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thherhands*wel
    luhm
    Amahl
    e:ahgodwhatdi
    dyoudo?
    Londi:well
    theguyreal
    lyl
    ovesMbaliit
    wasn'teasyseduci
    nghim evenaf
    terhe
    foundmenakedi nhisoff
    icehedi
    dn't
    budgeheal mostfi
    redme
    Amahle:
    thenhowdi
    dyougethi
    mtonot
    ice
    you?
    Londi
    :Iwenttosomewi t
    chdoctor
    ,hegave
    mesomet hingwhichIpouri
    nhisteaever
    y
    morni
    ngt hatmakeshim not
    icemeand
    hateMbali
    Amahl
    e:*
    shocked*YOUDI
    DWHAT?
    !!
    Londi:Amahl
    eyouar
    ereal
    l
    yconfusi
    ngme
    here,
    youaret
    heonewhoaskedmetohel
    p
    you,yousaidyouwantedMbal itofeelthe
    samewayy oudidwhenshedi dn'tgoto
    thatpar
    tywithyouthathadNsi kadumpi ng
    you,y
    oufoundaguyt hatlovesMbal iandI
    madehi m hat
    eher,
    againI'm goingtoask
    whatmor edoy ouwant??
    Amahle:
    youshoul
    dhav
    ecamebackand
    tol
    dmet hatt
    hepl
    andi
    dn'
    twor
    kandnotact
    desper
    ate
    Londi
    :
    Iact
    eddesper
    ate?
    ?
    Amahle:
    yesy
    ouwentt
    oawi
    tchdoct
    orj
    ust
    togetaman
    Londi
    :saysthesamegir
    lwhobl
    ackmail
    ed
    aguyjustsoyoucoul
    dhavehi
    m backal
    lto
    your
    self
    Theyt
    henr
    emai
    nsi
    l
    entf
    oraf
    ewmi
    nut
    es.
    Amahl
    e:y
    ouknowwhatl
    et'
    sjustdr
    opal
    lof
    t
    hisandl
    ett
    hingsgobackt
    onor
    mal
    Londi
    :
    Ican'
    tcauseI
    '
    vef
    all
    endeepi
    nlov
    e
    wit
    hMJ
    Amahle:
    *si
    ghs*whathappenswhenyou
    runoutoft
    hethi
    ngyouareusingonhim
    Londi
    :
    I'
    ll
    gobackt
    othewi
    tchdoct
    or
    Amahl
    e:butIst
    il
    lthi
    nkmakinghi
    m hat
    e
    mbal
    enhleisabitext
    reme
    Londi
    :
    li
    keI
    '
    vesai
    dIhavef
    all
    enf
    orhi
    m so
    l
    etmedothismyway.
    Amahl
    esi
    ghsi
    nsur
    render
    .


    Sat
    urday

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Mom out donehersel
    feverythi
    nglooks
    perfectandbeaut i
    ful
    ,Iendeduppi cki
    ngthe
    royalbluedr essi
    t'
    stheoneIl ovedinal
    lthe
    dressesmom boughtf ormeandspeaki ng
    ofmom shehasbeenbar kingorderssi
    nce
    mor ning.Mycheekshur tsobadIhav e
    beensmi li
    ngandwav i
    ngt oeveryoneandit
    l
    ooksl i
    kethewhol evi
    ll
    ageshowedup.
    Tasha:
    thi
    svil
    l
    agehaswellst
    ruct
    uredman
    andhotofcourseImeanl
    ookatallt
    hose
    yummies
    Si
    pho:
    stopcor
    rupt
    ingmysi
    ster
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    dot
    ell
    herpl
    ease
    Tasha:
    wuuhIf
    oundt
    hisoneal
    ready
    corr
    upt
    ed
    Me:*
    looki
    ngatSi
    pho*dearbr
    otherl
    ookat
    t
    hisi
    nnocentf
    aceandtel
    lmeifyoubeli
    eve
    t
    hatI
    '
    m cor
    rupt
    ed
    Hi
    m:ofcour
    seyouar
    enotcorr
    upt
    edImean
    l
    ookatyou,
    youl
    ookador
    abl
    e
    Tasha:
    dol
    l
    slookador
    abl
    e
    Si
    pho:
    wel
    lshe'
    smydol
    l
    Tasha:
    tel
    lmeagainwhyareyouher
    eand
    notwit
    hotherguy
    soratl
    eastwit
    hsanel
    e
    Sipho:
    Irathergositwit
    hdadandhi
    sfr
    iends
    thantositwiththatguy
    Tasha:
    thendosoandleav
    eusinpeace,
    we
    wanttotal
    kaboutboy
    snowleave
    Si
    pho:
    mxm wel
    lther
    e'st
    hisgi
    rlIsawl
    etme
    j
    ustgodomycharm
    Tasha:
    wit
    hthatf
    acegoodl
    uck
    Si
    pho:
    Idonotneedl
    uck
    Tasha:
    youdo
    Si
    pho:
    Idon'
    t
    Tasha:
    youdo
    Si
    pho:
    mcm l
    etmej
    ustl
    eav
    e
    Tasha:
    yeahdot
    hat
    Si
    phowal
    ksawayshaki
    nghi
    shead
    Me:wel
    lI'
    m gl
    ady
    ouar
    enol
    ongerscar
    edof
    hi
    m
    Her:
    welly
    eahhe'scool
    heai
    n'
    tscar
    yatal
    l
    butyourf
    athert
    jo
    Me:
    ahcomeonehe'
    snott
    hatbad
    Her
    :hei
    str
    ustme
    "Hi
    "wet
    urnandl
    ookatt
    hese2beaut
    if
    ul
    gir
    ls
    Me:
    hey
    Gi
    rl
    1:MynameisSneandt
    hisi
    sSmawe
    ar
    eyourcousi
    nsandwewerehopi
    ngi
    fyou
    woul
    dn'
    tmi
    ndi
    fwechi
    l
    lwi
    thy
    ouguy
    s
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    notatal
    landt
    hisi
    sTashamy
    f
    ri
    end
    Tasha:
    eiguysf
    orgi
    veMbalishefor
    get
    s
    ever
    yti
    met oputbestbef
    orefr
    iend
    Thegirl
    sgigglewhil
    eIrollmyey es.Wechil
    l
    toget
    hergetti
    ngtoknoweachot herthen
    weseesanel ewalki
    ngaroundl i
    kea
    headl
    esschickengivi
    ngpeopl esome
    boozeasifthisi
    shisfather'
    spalace.
    Sne:y
    ourf
    iancel
    ookshandsome*
    looki
    ngat
    sanel
    e*
    Me:
    whosef
    iance?
    Sne:
    your
    s
    Me:
    Idonothav
    eaf
    iance
    Sne:
    butt
    hatguyi
    swal
    ki
    ngar
    oundt
    ell
    i
    ng
    ever
    yonethathe'
    syourfianceandthatyou
    twoareplanni
    ngonleavi
    ngSout hAfri
    ca
    andstaysomewhereelse.
    Me:
    HESAI
    DWHAT?
    ?
    Tasha:
    *fuming*l
    etmedeal
    wit
    h
    hi
    m* st
    andingup*
    Me:
    nol
    etmedeal
    wit
    hhi
    m my
    sel
    f
    Iwalktowar
    dshi
    m wi
    thangeral
    lov
    ermy
    face.
    Me:
    sanel
    e
    Het
    urnsandl
    ookatmewi
    thasmi
    l
    e
    Hi
    m:hey
    Me:
    canIt
    alkt
    oyouf
    orasec
    Hi
    m:sur
    e
    Me:
    fol
    l
    owme
    Wewal
    ktot
    hebackoft
    her
    ondov
    elt
    hat
    t
    hesemanar
    esi
    tt
    ingi
    nfr
    ontof
    Me:nowtel
    lmewhatt
    hef
    uckdoy
    out
    hink
    youaredoi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:whatam Idoi
    ng?
    Me:whothefuckdoyouthi
    nky
    ouaregoing
    ar
    oundtell
    i
    ngpeoplethatI
    '
    myourf
    iancee
    whil
    eI'
    m not
    Hi
    m:i
    sn'
    ti
    tobv
    ious?Il
    ovey
    ouMbal
    i
    Me:
    *shocked*
    youwhat
    ?
    Him:Mbaliwearemeantf oreach
    other
    ,ev
    enfat
    ebr oughty
    out omeImean
    youcouldhav
    ewenti ntoanyhouset hat
    daybutyoupickedmyhomet hatshoul
    dbe
    asign
    Me:Ithinkyoushouldv i
    sitapsy
    chol
    ogi
    st
    becauseIthinkthereisascrewmissi
    ngin
    thatbigheadofy ours.
    Ihearsomeonel
    aughbutnotoutl
    oud
    Me:
    j
    ustst
    opspr
    eadi
    ngl
    i
    est
    oev
    ery
    one
    Itur
    ntowal
    kawaybuthehol
    dsmyarm and
    pull
    metohim andki
    ssmeIqui
    ckl
    ypush
    hi
    m andsl
    aphim sohar
    d
    Me:
    w..
    .
    Ifeelai
    rpassingmycheekandseeafi
    st
    l
    andingonsanel e'
    sfaceandhest
    umbl
    es
    backandf al
    l
    .
    Sipho:
    THEFUCKDOYOUTHI
    NKYOUARE
    DOINGYOUPIECEOFSHI
    T??
    ??*
    ohhei
    s
    fuming*
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t24~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Sanel
    eholdshi
    snowbleedi
    ngnosewhi
    l
    e
    Si
    pholooksathi
    m wi
    thrageinhi
    sey
    es.
    Sipho:youknowwhatI'mreall
    ygratefulfor
    youbr i
    ngingmysist
    erbackt ousbutr i
    ght
    nowy ougonnahav etotakeyourshitand
    l
    eav ethispal
    aceatonceandy oubetter
    stayfarawayfrom mysisterorel
    seI'll
    do
    worset hantowhatIdidtothatst
    upidnose
    ofyoursnxxlet'
    sgoMbal i
    .
    Wewal
    kawayl
    eav
    inghi
    m nur
    singhi
    snose.
    Me:yourf
    oreheadisevenpoppi
    nggr
    een
    vai
    nspleasecalm down
    Hi
    m:t
    heangery
    oual
    sohav
    eisn'
    thel
    ping
    Me:wel
    ldon'
    twor
    ryaboutmeI
    '
    llcal
    m down
    ev
    entual
    ly
    .
    Dadwal
    kst
    owar
    dsusf
    umi
    ng
    Me:Si
    phoIdi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ngdi
    dyoudo
    somethi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:uhhnowhy
    ?
    Me:
    dadi
    scomi
    ngourwayf
    umi
    ng
    Him:Idi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ngi
    tmusthav
    ebeen
    you
    Me:
    I.
    .
    Dad:
    *speaki
    ngt
    hroughhi
    steet
    h*wher
    eis
    he?
    Me:
    who?
    Dad:
    sanel
    e
    Me:he'
    suhm wai
    twhyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngf
    or
    hi
    m?
    Dad:
    he'
    sgoi
    ngaroundsayi
    nghe'
    smyson-
    i
    nlwawnxxhedoesn'
    tknowpeopl
    e,
    now
    wher
    eishe?
    *fumi
    ng*
    Me:*l
    ooki
    ngatSi
    pho*youknowIneverliked
    wrest
    li
    ngsoI'
    mleavi
    ngy ouwi
    thhim and
    youbett
    erpl
    ayyourwrestl
    i
    ngoutofsight.
    IwalkawaygoingbacktoTashaandthe
    gi
    rlsthi
    sismyspecial
    daysol etmeenj
    oyi
    t,
    asIwalkclosert
    othegir
    lsIseeamale
    fi
    gureohit'
    skhaya.
    Me:
    HiKhay
    a,y
    oucame*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Him:eventhoughi
    ttookmesol
    ongt
    oget
    hereyeah
    Me:t
    hankyouforcomi
    ng,
    didt
    hesegi
    rl
    syou
    ar
    esitt
    ingwi
    thservey
    ou?
    Hi
    m:eyMbal
    iI
    'm st
    arv
    ingl
    i
    kecr
    azy
    *hol
    ding
    hi
    stummy*
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatt
    hegi
    rl
    s*ahhguy
    sreal
    l
    y?
    Sma: Iguesswegotcaughtupi nthe
    conversationandforgott
    oser v
    ehim don'
    t
    worryI'l
    ltakecar
    eofy ou*shesaidt
    hat
    standingupandwal kingi
    nside*
    Isi
    tdownexhal
    i
    ng
    Tasha:
    thatbadhuh?
    Me:
    l
    et'
    sjustsayhehasabr
    okennose
    Tasha:
    *shocked*Youpunchedhi
    m!?
    Me:*gi
    ggl
    ing*noSiphodid,
    hemusthav e
    sawuswaki ngatthebackandfol
    lowedus
    buthedeservedthepunchIdon'
    tfeel
    sorry
    forhi
    m
    Sne:
    sohewasgoi
    ngar
    oundspr
    eadi
    ngl
    i
    es?
    Me:
    yer
    p
    Khaya:
    I'
    mreal
    l
    yconfusedandIhat
    ebei
    ng
    conf
    usedsopleasef
    il
    lmeupbecauseI
    al
    sowantt
    orai
    semyopi
    nionher
    e
    Wel
    aughathi
    mthent
    ell
    him ev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    Khaya:
    Ithi
    nkhei
    scr
    azyandobsessedwi
    th
    you
    Tasha:
    myt
    hought
    sexact
    ly
    Me:wel
    li
    fthatpunchdidn'
    tteachhi
    ma
    l
    essonorwarnhim Idon'
    tknowwhatwi
    ll
    .
    Khaya:
    *clear
    inghi
    sthroat
    *uhm Mbal
    ier
    rI
    knowthisdoesn'
    tconcernmebutwhat
    happenedbetweenyouandMJ?
    Smacomesbackwit
    hapl
    atef
    ull
    off
    ood
    andgi
    vei
    ttokhay
    a
    Hi
    m:t
    hanky
    oubeaut
    if
    ull
    ady
    Smabl
    ushesandseat
    sdown
    Me:Iact
    ual
    l
    yhavenoi
    deawhathappened,
    I
    guessMJgott
    ir
    edofwai
    ti
    ngforme
    Heshakeshisheadwit
    hhi
    smout
    hful
    lof
    f
    oodIwaitforhi
    mt oswal
    l
    ow
    Him: no,
    her eall
    yl ovedyouheev ensetupa
    countdownonhi sphonef ort hese6weeks
    after1weekhewassoexci tedhewasl i
    ke
    "1weekdown5mor etogo"t henaf ter2
    weeksuhi twasTuesdayhecameback
    from worksohappyIaskedhi m what
    exact l
    ydidmbal enhledoorsayt ohi mt hat
    madehi mt hathappy ,hi
    ssmi lesuddenl y
    turnedintoaf r
    ownhet hensai dwi thso
    muchangert hatImustnev erev erment ion
    yournamei nhi spresencewhi chl eftme
    confusedcausewhenhel ef
    tf orwor kint he
    mor ningthatdayev eryt
    hingwasf ine.
    Me:
    * beyondthewordconfused*butIdi
    dn'
    t
    doany t
    hing,
    onthatdayhesentmeagood
    morningmessageasheal waysdidwhenI
    gottowor kIgott hereatthesamet imeas
    him andIcoul dseehewasi nagoodmood
    heev engav emeasmi lebutl at
    ert
    hatday
    duri
    ngt heboar dmeet i
    nghegav emeacol d
    l
    ookasi fhedespiseme, Isenthima
    messageaski nghi m whatdi dIdo?Buthe
    neveranswer edhej ustblockedme, l
    aterI
    foundouthei sdat i
    nghisP. A
    Tasha:comeonbabest opt
    ort
    uri
    ngyoursel
    f
    overhim he'
    sjustadumpassnigganow
    wipethosetears.
    Iqui
    ckl
    ywipet
    hem Idi
    dn'
    tev
    enr
    eal
    i
    zeI
    wascry
    ing
    Khaya:
    okI
    'v
    eneverbeensoconf
    used,
    Ineed
    togett
    othebot
    tom oft
    his
    Me:
    nopleasejustleavei
    t,
    ifMJi
    shappy
    wi
    thhi
    sP.At henletthem be
    Khaya:
    Ireal
    lywantt
    osayokI'l
    ll
    eaveitbutI
    can'
    tbecauseIdon'
    tthi
    nkI
    '
    llbeableto
    sl
    eepatnightwit
    hthi
    sconf
    usionrunningin
    myhead.
    Sma:
    whoi
    sthi
    sMJy
    ouar
    etal
    ki
    ngabout
    ?
    Khay
    a:mybr
    other
    ,Mbal
    i
    'ssoul
    mat
    e
    Me:
    saywhatnow?I
    '
    m nothi
    ssoul
    mat
    e
    Him:well
    unti
    lIf
    indoutwhatr
    eal
    l
    y
    happened,y
    ouare
    Me:
    I.
    ..
    .
    "
    Mbal
    enhl
    e"It
    urnandf
    indNcami
    looki
    ngat
    mewi
    thasmil
    e
    Me:*
    smil
    ingback*Iknowgrowi
    ngupyou
    al
    wayssaidyouhatedhugsbutmayIget
    one
    Her
    :justt
    hisonce
    Istandupandwehugt
    henbr
    eaki
    taf
    ter3
    seconds
    Her
    :Imi
    ssedy
    ou
    Me:
    Imi
    ssedy
    out
    oo
    Her:
    i
    fonl
    yyoupai
    dmor
    eat
    tent
    iont
    othose
    dr
    eams
    Me:
    wai
    tthatwasy
    ou?
    Her:
    yeahbutt
    heol
    dladyy
    ouwer
    eseei
    ng
    wasn'
    tme
    Me:
    ohwellatl
    eastI'
    m herenowandmeet
    myfri
    endsNatashaohwai tmybestf
    ri
    end
    Nat
    asha*r
    oll
    i
    ngmyey es*andthi
    sisKhay
    a
    Tasha:
    youhav
    efi
    nal
    l
    ygoti
    tri
    ght
    Ncami
    :
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*ni
    cet
    omeety
    ou
    Tasha&Khay
    a:ni
    cet
    omeety
    out
    oo
    Ncami
    :
    pleasecont
    inueenj
    oyi
    ngki
    dsI
    '
    m
    j
    ustgonnabor
    rowmbal
    enhlefora
    moment,Mbal
    ifol
    l
    owmeplease.
    If
    oll
    owhertoherr
    ondov
    elandt
    akeaseat
    onthemat
    .
    Ncami:
    Ijustcal
    l
    edy
    ouher
    etocl
    eart
    hings
    upfory
    ou
    Me:
    about
    ?
    Her:
    aboutt
    het
    hingy
    ouar
    ebei
    ngi
    ndeni
    al
    of
    Me:
    whati
    sthat
    ?
    Her
    :you'
    vebeenseeingyourbrot
    her
    's
    gui
    denbutyoubeliev
    ethatiti
    syour
    i
    maginat
    ionspl
    ayingwithyou
    Me:
    sowhatexact
    lyar
    eyout
    ryi
    ngt
    osay
    ?
    Her:
    itseemsl i
    keyouhavet
    hesamegiftas
    yourmot herbuti
    t'
    sgoi
    ngtotakesome
    t
    imef
    ory
    out
    oseeot
    hergui
    densf
    ull
    time
    Me:
    uhhWowuhm hav
    eyout
    oldmypar
    ent
    s?
    Her:
    yeahIjusttal
    kedwit
    hthem,anddon'
    t
    worryyou'
    l
    l getusedtoy
    ourgi
    ftjustl
    i
    ke
    yourmotherdid*smil
    i
    ng*
    Her
    :nowmov
    ingt
    osomet
    hingel
    se
    Me:
    wai
    tther
    e'smor
    e?
    Her
    :yourhear
    tisheav
    y
    Ij
    ustl
    ookather
    Her:
    anditisnotf
    ull
    ybecauseofhi
    miti
    s
    becauseyoucan'
    tstopl
    ovinghi
    m
    Me:
    uhhm I
    Her:
    don'tworr
    yeverythi
    ngwillworkitsel
    f
    outI
    'm notsayi
    ngstoplovinghim because
    wecan'tcontr
    olourfeel
    ingsbutyourheav y
    hear
    tishurti
    ngsomeoneel se,
    lovi
    ng
    someoneisagreatfeel
    ingsothatl
    oveyou
    havefort
    hatguydonott akei
    tinabadway,
    focusonthegr
    eatfeeli
    ngandtrytofor
    get
    thesomeone
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    buthowdoIdot
    hat
    ?
    Her:
    Ican'
    ttel
    lyou,
    you'
    l
    lhav
    etof
    igur
    eitout
    your
    self
    Me:soar
    eyousayi
    ngitisoktolov
    e
    someonewhodoesn'
    tloveyou?
    Her
    :*gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*whosai
    dhedoesn'
    tl
    ovey
    ou
    Me:
    noonebuthe.
    ..
    Her
    :youhav
    ey ouranswernowgobackout
    t
    hereandenjoyyourcel
    ebr
    ati
    on
    Inodandwalkoutconf
    usedasev
    erI
    '
    m not
    sureifev
    ery
    thi
    ngshesaidt
    omemade
    sense.
    Tasha:
    you'
    reback
    Me:
    yeah,
    khay
    ayouhav
    en'
    tfi
    nishedy
    our
    f
    ood?
    Tasha:
    thi
    sishi
    ssecondpl
    ate
    Khay
    a:don'
    tyoudar
    ejudgemeIam hungr
    y
    Wel
    aughathi
    m
    Tasha:
    Iwasn'
    tj
    udgi
    ng.
    Somepr
    ett
    ygi
    rl
    swal
    kpassus
    Khaya:
    wuuhholàma,t
    ashahol
    dmypl
    ate
    don'
    teatmyfoodI'
    l
    lbeback
    Hest
    andsupandf
    oll
    owt
    hosel
    adi
    es.
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkIshoul
    dor
    gani
    zear
    oom f
    orhi
    m
    Tasha:
    yeahpl
    usi
    t'
    sgett
    ingl
    ate.
    ..
    woah
    mam'Zumaiscomingt
    owardsfuming
    Me:
    shemustbel
    ooki
    ngf
    orherl
    unat
    icson
    Mam'
    Zumagett
    ous
    Her:
    aft
    erever
    ythi
    ngmeandmysondidfor
    you,
    youarenowthrowi
    nghi
    m outasi
    fhe'
    s
    adog
    Me:
    doyouknowwhaty
    oursonhasbeenup
    t
    o?*
    Isayt
    hatcal
    my*
    Her:
    what ev
    erhedidhest
    il
    ldoesn'
    tdeser
    ve
    tobethrownoutthewayhewast hr
    ownout
    andbeingbeatenl
    iket
    hat
    ,iruethedayI
    hel
    pedy ouIshoul
    dhavel
    ety oudi
    ein
    hunger
    .
    Sheturnsbackandwal
    kawayl
    eav
    ingme
    shocked.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t25~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ther estoft heweekendwasbl i


    ssf ul and
    fi
    ll
    edwi thl
    aught erIev enlostcountofhow
    manygi rl
    sKhay awentaf ter,
    he'saCasa
    Nov at hatonehedoesn' tevenr ealizet hat
    Smal i
    keshi m, afterthedaycel ebrat ionwe
    hadami niafterpar t
    yi nsi
    det hepal acewi th
    myf ami lyandf r
    iendsi ncl
    udingSne&Sma
    weev enexchangednumber swi t
    ht hem and
    i
    tseemsl i
    keMJspenthi sent i
    reweekend
    huntingbecausehewasn' tonmysi demost
    ofthet i
    mepl usmom di dsayt hatnohar m
    couldcomet omewhenI '
    mi nt hepal ace
    grounds.Me, Tasha, SiphoandKhay adr ove
    downt oJo' burgy esterdaywel lafterbei ng
    gi
    v enst ri
    ctinst r
    uct i
    onsbymypar ent s
    say ingthatev ent houghmam' Zumaand
    sanel ehelpedmeIshoul dstayf araway
    from t hem,Siphoev ent ookmyphoneand
    blockedt heirnumber sheev endel eted
    them, mypar entswant edmet oleavewi th2
    body guar
    dsbutIr efusedhel lnoIdon' t
    wantt hem livi
    nganor mal l
    if
    eisf ar
    awesomet henl ivi
    ngar oyalli
    fe.It'
    slike
    ev erythi
    ngt hatNcami saidtomeent er
    ed
    mymi ndasar iddlebecauseI '
    m stil
    l
    conf used,howcanIl ov esomeonewho
    doesnotl ovemecauseI 'l
    lbeonl yhur t
    ing
    my selfIt
    hinkIneedt oseeal ov edoct orso
    he/ shecoul dt ellmehowt oshutt hem
    feel i
    ngsof fany wayr i
    ghtnowI 'm with
    Tashawear ehav i
    ngl unch.
    Me:sohowmanypr
    incesdi
    dyoumanaget
    o
    get
    ?
    Her
    :ar
    gtheonesthatwereint
    erest
    edinme
    weret
    heuglyonesbutIdi
    dmanaget oget
    mysel
    fahandsomehulkandhedi dsaythat
    hecomesalottoJo'
    burgsoIthinkI'
    vegot
    mysel
    fanewhobby *
    smili
    ng*
    Me:*shaki
    ngmyhead*
    wher
    edoest
    his
    hobbyofyour
    sstay
    ?
    Her:
    Dur
    ban,hej
    ustcamet
    othecel
    ebr
    ati
    on
    wit
    hafri
    end.
    "Gooddayladi
    es"adeepvoi
    cecaughtour
    att
    enti
    on,werai
    seourheadstol
    ookatthi
    s
    tal
    lhandsomeguy.
    Tasha:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    hi
    Guy:doyoumindifIjoi
    nyoul
    adi
    es?
    *smi
    l
    ing
    rev
    eali
    nghisdimples*
    Tasha:
    notatal
    l
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Het
    akesaseatwi
    thhi
    slunch
    Hi
    m: t
    hankyouuhmynamei
    sWandi
    l
    e
    Smit
    hIam a..
    Tasha:
    ahhhhwhy
    *pr
    etendi
    ngt
    ocr
    y*why
    ?
    Wandi
    :
    *conf
    used*di
    dIsaysomet
    hing
    wr
    ong?
    Me:*
    smil
    ing*pl
    easedonotmi
    ndhershe'
    s
    j
    ustbei
    ngcrazyasusual
    Wandi:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*owhwel
    lIwasj ust
    sayi
    ngIam anaccount
    ant
    ,i
    fyouladies
    don'
    tmindcouldyoual
    soi
    ntroduce
    your
    sel
    ves.
    Me:
    wel
    lI'
    m..
    .
    Him:Mbal
    enhl
    eMt
    hembu,
    ever
    yoneknows
    you
    Me:uhm t
    henwhyaskif"
    we"coul
    d
    i
    ntr
    oduceoursel
    vest
    oo?
    Hi
    m: wel
    lIuhm er
    ryeahIshoul
    dn'
    thav
    eput
    i
    tli
    kethat
    Me:*si
    ghi
    ng*
    it
    'scoolwell
    I'
    m al
    awy
    er*
    Isai
    d
    shr
    uggingmyshoulder
    *
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    nicet
    omeety
    ou
    Tasha:
    I'
    m Nat
    ashaSmi
    th*
    rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    I
    'm al
    soalawyer
    Hi
    m:*smi
    l
    ing*owwowl ooksl
    i
    keIhav
    e
    f
    oundmyselfasi
    ster
    Her:
    event houghIai
    n'
    tl
    ooki
    ngforabr
    other
    butIdon'tmindhavi
    ngahandsomebr
    other
    l
    ikeyou*smi l
    ing*
    Him:IknowwhatI 'm abouttoaski sbeing
    wayt oforwardbutcoul dy
    oudoy our
    brotherafavourandasky ourbeaut i
    ful
    fri
    endtogiv eyourbr
    otherhernumber s.
    .*
    he
    rai
    sehi seyebr
    owmaki ngmebl ush*
    Tasha:
    what
    'si
    nforme?
    Hi
    m:what
    every
    ouwant
    Tasha:*smi
    li
    ng*whateverIwant
    ?Well
    in
    thatcaseIcangiveyouhernumberwit
    hout
    evenaskingforherper
    mi ssi
    on
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Tashal
    ooksatmeandsmi
    l
    es
    Her
    :wandi
    giv
    emey
    ourphone
    Wandi
    :Ial
    readyhaveanickname?Cool
    *he
    say
    slendi
    ngt ashahi
    sphone*
    Tashaput
    sinmynumbert
    hengi
    vesi
    tback
    toi
    towner
    Tasha:
    Ial
    sosavedminesodocallmesoI
    cangiveyoumyinv
    oice,
    ourl
    unchi
    sover
    wehav et
    ogetbacktowork*
    shesays
    standi
    ngup*
    Ial
    sost
    andup
    Wandi:
    Ithi
    nkitwouldber
    udeifIdon'
    tgi
    ve
    youhugs*st
    andingupwhi
    lesmil
    ing*
    HehugsTashaf i
    rstt
    henhugsmei t'
    skind
    ofalongwar m hugitact
    uall
    yfeel
    sgood,we
    l
    etgo,hesmi l
    esIthensmilebackthen
    me,MJandTashawal koutgoingbackto
    ourbuil
    ding
    Me:nowt
    ell
    mewhyt
    heheckdi
    dyougi
    ve
    hi
    m mynumber
    s?
    Her:fi
    rstofal
    lyourcheeksareredduet o
    blushingandithasbeenanent i
    re4weeks
    ofy ouweepingoverMJ, Wandileseems
    l
    ikeani ceguyI'
    m notsayingthatbecause
    weshar ethesamesur nameI'm sayingt
    hat
    becauseIsawhe' saniceguyan. .
    .
    Me:
    howdoy
    ouknowhe'
    sani
    ceguy
    ?
    Her:
    tr
    ustmeIknowcauseI 'v
    eseent hem al
    l
    thebadandt hegoodsot r
    ustmeIknow
    andasIwassay i
    ngiti
    saboutt i
    mey ou
    moveonf r
    om MJI '
    m notsayingdate
    Wandilethatwil
    lbeyourchoicebutIthi
    nkit
    i
    sagr eatideaforyoutwotogett oknow
    eachother.
    She'
    sri
    ghtmaybeWandil
    ecoul
    dbeagr
    eat
    di
    str
    act
    ionfr
    om t
    hissaga.
    MrM:
    ladi
    esI
    '
    vebeenwai
    ti
    ngf
    ory
    ou
    Me:
    arewel
    ate?Wear
    esososor
    rySi
    r
    Him:noyouarenotlat
    eIjustneedtohavea
    wordwiththetwoofyoubef or
    eIleavepl
    us
    tomorr
    owandt herestoftheweekI'l
    lbein
    Piet
    ermari
    tzbur
    gsorti
    ngsomebusi ness
    Tasha:
    didwedosomet
    hingwr
    ong?
    MrM:
    nonotatal
    lIj
    ustwantt
    ogi
    vebot
    hof
    y
    out
    asks
    Me:
    ohwel
    lthenwear
    eli
    steni
    ng*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Him:Mi ssSmi t
    hIwanty outogot o
    Mkhi ze&sonsent erpr i
    seandwor kwith
    MissAdamsont hiscasef orthis
    week* handingheradocumentwhi leTasha
    nods*andMi ssMt hembuy ouandmyson
    workedononeoft hebi ggestcasesand
    woni tevent houghy oudi dn'tshowupat
    courtduet osomer easonsbutaf tert
    hat
    caseMJdi dt ellmet hati twasmost l
    yyour
    hardwor ksot hi
    sisal sooneoft hebiggest
    caseswecannotaf fordt oloset hi
    scase
    whichi swhyI '
    m partneringy ouandMJ
    again.
    Mysmil
    edropsasItakethedocumentwhy
    MJinal
    ltheot
    herl
    awy er
    sinthi
    slawfir
    m.
    Hi
    m:y
    ouwi
    l
    lst
    arty
    ourt
    askst
    omor
    rowand
    i
    fyouguyswi
    nthosecasesIwi
    l
    lal
    l
    owy
    ou
    t
    ogosolo.
    Het
    henwal
    ksoutof
    fthebui
    l
    ding.
    Tasha:
    hangi
    nther
    ebabei
    tisonl
    yforaf
    ew
    days

    Wet aketheelev
    atorandgettoourf
    loor
    Tashagoest oheroff
    icewhil
    eIgotomi ne,
    IwalkinandfindMJsi t
    ti
    ngonmychai r
    Me:*
    clear
    ingmyt
    hroat
    *hi
    ,
    howmayIhel
    p
    you?
    Hi
    m:Ij
    ustcameheret
    ogi
    vey
    ousome
    t
    ermsandcondi
    ti
    ons
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    aboutwhat
    ?
    Him:
    aboutthecasewewil
    lbewor ki
    ngon,1
    Iwantt
    hingstobekeptpr
    ofessi
    onal2I
    ..
    Me:whosaidt
    heywon'tbeprof
    essi
    onal
    ?
    I
    'm alawy
    erIknowhowt obeprof
    essi
    onal
    andwhywouldIactunprof
    essi
    onalwi
    th
    you?
    Him:*
    smirki
    ng*
    becausewordont
    hest
    reet
    saysyouarest
    il
    lhunguponme
    WellIst
    il
    lam butIknowhowt
    obe
    pr
    ofessi
    onal
    Me:bystr
    eetwhoexact
    lydoyoumean?
    Causenooneknewaboutour2minutes
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    pbesi
    desTasha,
    Khayaandyour
    P.A
    Hi
    m:t
    hati
    snoneofy
    ourbusi
    ness
    Me:i
    nthatcasetakey
    ourstupi
    dter
    msand
    condi
    ti
    onsandgoshov et
    hem towhoev
    er
    tol
    dyouthatshi
    t
    Hi
    m:i
    sitr
    eal
    l
    yshi
    t?
    Me:ther
    earesomanyguy soutt
    heret hatI
    couldgetwhoIbetaremenenought han
    you,nowifyoudon'
    tmindgetoutoffmy
    off
    iceIdon'
    tgetpai
    dtousemyener gyt o
    uni
    mpor t
    antpeopl
    e.*
    shouti
    ngali
    ttl
    e*
    Hi
    m:*st
    andingup*youcoul
    dgetany
    man?
    ohsoy ouhav
    ef i
    nal
    lydeci
    dedt
    ojoi
    n
    t
    hehoeclub.
    Ist
    andsti
    llandfeell
    i
    kemysoulhasl
    eftmy
    bodyifmyfeel
    ingssurvi
    vet
    hist
    hent
    hey
    wouldbetotal
    l
    ystupid
    Him:*
    looki
    ngatmecoldly*
    trut
    hisIdon'
    t
    wantyounearmeorev eni
    nmypr esence
    causeyoudisgustmebutworkiswork.
    Hewalksoutl eav
    ingmefrozen,
    whyisMJ
    notscr
    atchinghim?MustIorderhi
    mt o
    causethatniggamostl
    ydeservesascr
    atch.
    .
    °
    Khay
    a°

    Me:
    Iwanty
    out
    okeept
    absont
    hisgi
    rl
    .
    Ihandhi
    m MJ'
    sP.
    A'spi
    ctur
    e
    Bonga:
    *taki
    ngthepict
    ure*whataboutwhen
    she'
    satwork?CauseIcan'tkeeptabson
    herwhi
    leshe'sther
    e
    Me:
    don'
    tworr
    yaboutthat
    ,I
    '
    llt
    ryt
    ohackto
    t
    hesecur
    it
    ysyst
    em andseewhatIgetf
    rom
    t
    her
    e.
    Bonga:
    okbutwhati
    fthi
    sgi
    rlr
    eal
    l
    ylov
    es
    yourbr
    other
    ?
    Me:t
    hatiswhatIwantt
    obesureof
    Bonga,
    becausewhati
    fthi
    sgir
    lonlywants
    mybrother
    'smoneyandisnoti
    nterest
    edin
    him atal
    l,
    IwanttobesurewhetherMJlef
    t
    Mbal i
    thegirl
    whor eal
    l
    ylov
    eshimf or
    someonewhol ov
    eshim morethanMbali
    if
    that
    'spossibl
    ecauseMbalireal
    l
    ylovemy
    j
    erkbr ot
    her.
    Bonga:
    whatexact
    lyhappenedbet
    ween
    them?
    Me:thatiswhatIi ntendt ofi
    ndout,you
    knowwhenmybr otherfir
    sttol
    dmeabout
    Mbal iatt
    hatmomentshewasNokwandaI
    sawhi sfacelightupaf tersomanyy ears
    hisfacelight
    edupIwant edtomeett hi
    sgirl
    andwhenIdi dIreallydidn'
    tunderst
    and
    whatmybr otherreallyseecausetherewas
    nothingtoseesi nceshehadamaskonbut
    thefirstt
    imei sawherr ealf
    aceIsaw
    someonewhof i
    tsmybr othersomeone
    whowoul dn'
    tplayhi m,mybr ot
    herdoesn't
    dorel
    ati
    onshipsandl ovestuffbutMbali
    wasslowlychangi nghim,ifMbalidi
    d
    somethi
    ngthatbr okehi shearthewouldn'
    t
    beinarelat
    ionshipwi ththisgir
    lhewould
    befucki
    ngev eryskirtthatheseessoIwant
    tofi
    ndoutwhat 'ssospeci alabouther
    causeIdon'
    tf eelher.
    Bonga:eyIf
    eely
    ahmanwelll
    etmegett
    oit
    thenandIhopeyouknowy
    ounowoweme
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*y
    eahIdo
    Hi
    m:*
    standi
    ngup*shar
    p

    All
    Iwantist
    oseemybr otherhappywith
    someonewhoisnotintendingtohurthi
    m
    hehasbeenhurtenough,especial
    lywhen
    heg..
    ahhnothatishi
    sstor yt
    ot el
    l
    .
    I
    '
    m Khay
    alet
    huTr
    ist
    enMkhi
    zeI
    '
    m 23y
    ear
    s
    ol
    d,MJ'
    syoungerbr
    other
    .
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t26~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Headache, MJ, Headache,MJ, Headache,


    MJaght hisguyisbeingimpossi bl
    ewe
    havetogot ocourttomor r
    owbuthei sn'
    t
    cooper atingwithmei nsteadhei s
    disagreeingwi t
    hev eryt
    hingIsay ,
    Ithi
    nkt hi
    s
    headacheIhav eisbecauseofhi mi t
    start
    edonTuesdayandt odayisThur sday
    i
    t'
    sget tingwor seev er
    yhour .TodayMJ
    seemscr ankyandqui etatthesamet ime.
    Me: *holdi
    ngmyhead* MJpl easeworkwith
    meher eIbegyou,wehav en'tmadealotof
    progr essonthi
    scaseandt omorrowwe
    hav et ogotocourtsotodayIdon'twantto
    fi
    ghtwi t
    hyouplease*sayi
    ngt hatwi
    thalow
    voice*
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    asi
    fyoucar
    e
    Hi
    sP.Awalksi
    nholdi
    nghiscof
    feej
    ustli
    ke
    ev
    ery
    dayandhandshimthecoff
    eeaft
    er
    gr
    eet
    ingonl
    yhi
    m
    MJ:t
    hankyou,
    uhhcouldyoualsoorder
    br
    eakfastf
    ormeI'
    m kindofhungry
    * he
    pl
    aceshiscof
    feeonthetabl
    e*
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    ing*OK
    Hi
    m:t
    hatwoul
    dbeal
    lthanky
    ou
    Her
    :ar
    en'
    tyougoi
    ngt
    odr
    inky
    ourcof
    fee?I
    t
    goi
    ngt
    ogetcol
    d
    Him:LondiIj
    ustsai
    dI'
    m hungr
    yandyouar
    e
    askingmeaboutthecoff
    ee,wil
    li
    tser
    veas
    food?*annoy
    ed*
    Her
    :nobut
    ..
    ..
    Him:
    *brushinghi
    sforehead*butwhat?
    ??I
    f
    youdon'twanttogetmebr eakf
    astt
    hen
    l
    eaveitI
    'll
    asksomeoneel se
    Her:
    nonoI'm sor
    ryI
    '
    llgogetyou
    br
    eakfast
    *shesayswalki
    ngout*
    MJ:
    I'
    m sor
    ryaboutt
    hat
    What
    'shappeni
    ng?Whyi
    shebei
    ngsi
    ncer
    e?
    Me:i
    t'
    smmmm*
    hol
    dingmyheadagai
    n*i
    t'
    s
    f
    i.
    ..
    mmmmh
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    yeahj
    ustt
    hishummi
    nghead,
    shal
    lwe
    st
    art
    ?
    Henodsandwest artworki
    ngaf ter20
    mi nutehi sbreakfastgetsherebutt hat
    doesn' tstopuswecont inuewor kingwhile
    heeatandIt hi
    nkwear emaki ngsome
    progresst oday.Afewhour spassandwe
    arestillwor ki
    nginpeaceIwi shitwasl i
    ke
    thisint hesepass2day s,myphoner i
    ngs
    disturbingusohi t
    'sWandi l
    e
    Me:
    uhm mayI
    ?
    MJ:
    sur
    egoahead
    Ianswerhi
    scal
    lwi
    thasmi
    l
    e
    Me:
    hey
    Hi
    m:whyi
    sn'
    tyourbeaut
    if
    ulsel
    fnother
    e?
    Me:
    her
    ewher
    e?
    Hi
    m:ar
    en'
    tyouhav
    ingl
    uncht
    oday
    ?
    Me:
    Iam why
    ?
    Hi
    m:ohIt
    houghtwewer
    egonnaeat
    t
    oget
    her
    Me:
    wewi
    l
    l
    Hi
    m:uh?
    ?Hav
    eyouseent
    het
    ime?
    We'vebeenhavingmuchtoget
    herthese
    past2dayssinceTashai
    sontheot hersi
    de
    oftownanywayIcheckmywr i
    stwatchoh
    shi
    t
    Me:ohhIdi
    dn'
    tev
    ennot
    icet
    het
    imeuhm I
    guessI'
    l
    lseey
    ouonMonday
    Hi
    m:whataboutt
    omor
    row?
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lbei
    ncour
    ttomor
    row
    Him:okt
    henIguessI
    '
    mtaki
    ngy
    ououton
    Satur
    day/
    /
    Hehangsupbef
    oreIcoul
    dev
    enanswer
    Me:
    itseemsl
    i
    kel
    unchi
    sal
    mostov
    er*
    Isay
    t
    oMJ*
    Him:*l
    ooki
    ngatthet
    ime*owIdidn'
    t
    real
    i
    ze,wecoul
    dtakeabreaksoyoucango
    eat
    Me:
    noi
    t'
    sfi
    nel
    et'
    sfi
    nishupher
    efi
    rst
    .
    Ij
    ustreallywantust ofi
    nishupher eor
    may bebecauseI 'm scar
    edt hatifIl
    eaveI'
    l
    l
    comebackt oameanMJ.Wecont i
    nue
    att
    ackingt hiscaseIhopet omor rowgoes
    wellwhichr emindsmeIneedt of etchmy
    gownf rom thedr y
    cleani
    ngst ore.After
    anotherfewhour swewr apupandLondi
    walksin
    Her
    :yout
    woar
    est
    il
    lwor
    king?
    IexpectMJtoanswerherbuthedoesn'
    tso
    Ianswerforhi
    m
    Me:
    wear
    eact
    ual
    l
    ydonej
    ustwr
    a..
    .
    Her:
    thenwhyar
    eyoust
    il
    lher
    e?*
    wit
    h
    at
    ti
    tude*
    Me:i
    fyouletmefini
    shy
    ouwoul
    dn'
    tbe
    aski
    ngthatquest
    ion
    Her:
    don'
    tevenf
    ini
    shi
    t'
    sobv
    iouswhyy
    ou
    ar
    estil
    lher
    e
    Me:
    i
    tis?
    Her:
    yeahiti
    s,wel
    ltoobadbi
    tchcauset
    his
    manistakenandyoudonotwanttomess
    wit
    hme
    Me:
    didy
    ouj
    ustcal
    lmeabi
    tch?
    ?
    Her
    :Idi
    dn'
    tmakeami
    staket
    her
    e
    Me:t
    henIguessIsl
    eptwit
    hyourf
    atherand
    youweret
    heproducti
    fI'
    m abi
    tch
    Her
    :d.
    ..
    MJ:
    ENOUGH!
    !!
    Ij
    umpal
    i
    ttl
    efr
    om t
    hechai
    rI'
    m si
    tt
    ingon
    Him:*poi
    ntingatme*y oucan'
    ttal
    ktomy
    gir
    lf
    ri
    endlikethatmayi tbet
    helastt
    ime
    youtalkt
    oherl i
    kethatam Icl
    ear?
    Me:
    *fumi
    ng*What
    ?She'
    stheo.
    ..
    Hi
    m: Isai
    dam Icl
    ear
    *speaki
    ngt
    hroughhi
    s
    t
    eeth*
    Me:
    *st
    andi
    ngupandpacki
    ngmyst
    uff
    *nxx
    Ist
    artwal
    ki
    ngaway
    MJ:Idar
    eyout
    owal
    koutwhi
    l
    ewear
    est
    il
    l
    t
    alki
    ng.
    Icont
    inuewalki
    ng,
    hequi
    ckl
    yjumpsoff
    fr
    om hishai
    rwalki
    ngtomeandholdsmy
    handli
    ghtl
    y
    Me:
    *pi
    ssed*
    coul
    dyouki
    ndl
    yletgoofme
    Insteadheholdsmyhandsf ir
    mlyIguess
    thatwashiswr ongmov ecauseMJ
    scratchedhi
    shandof fofmewhi l
    ehe
    groansinpainholdi
    nghishand
    Hi
    m:whatt
    hef
    uckdi
    dyoudot
    omyhand?
    Me:whatcouldIhav
    epossi
    blydonewhen
    youwereholdingmyhandandIdidn'
    tev
    en
    l
    iftt
    heotherone.
    Heremainsqui
    etforamomentIguesshe
    i
    sreal
    izi
    ngthatIdi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ng.
    Hi
    m:t
    henwhatt
    heheckj
    ustscr
    atchedme?
    He'slosingsomuchbl ood,
    he'
    slooki
    ng
    str
    aightatmeIdon' tknowwhybutIretur
    n
    thestareaswest areateachot
    herhiseyes
    arefil
    ledwithconfusi
    on
    Hi
    m:hav
    eyourey
    esal
    way
    sspar
    kled?
    Il
    ookdownconf
    usedbutal
    socan'
    thel
    pbut
    smileasIrememberthefi
    rstti
    mehesaid
    thattomewhenhel ookedint
    omyey es,
    my
    phonebr i
    ngsmebacktolif
    eohi t
    's
    bab'zondiI
    'm sur
    ehei
    snowwor r
    ied/
    /
    Me:
    I'
    m onmywaybaba
    Hi
    m:ok/
    /
    IhangupandlookatMJwhol ooks
    confusedasev
    erwit
    hLondinexttohi
    m
    l
    ookingatmewi t
    hadeadst
    are.
    Me:youknowmyey es*Itur
    ntowal
    kaway
    butstop*ohIsuggestyougoseeadoctor
    aboutthatwound* Iwalkoutwi
    thMJ*
    ThemomentIst epoutofthebui l
    dingmy
    headachecomesbackatamuchgr eater
    for
    cemakingmescr eam ali
    tt
    le,Ibreathin
    andoutthengetinsi
    dethecarandgr eet
    bab'
    zondiashestart
    stheigni
    tiontof etch
    mygown.
    Me:
    babadoy
    ouhav
    ewat
    er?
    Hereachesouthisl
    efthandandt
    akeouta
    bot
    tl
    eofwat erandgi
    vesittome.
    Me:
    thanks
    Myphoneri
    ngswhil
    eI'
    m dr
    inki
    ngwaterI
    answeri
    twi
    thoutl
    ooki
    ngwhoitis/
    /
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    "
    Wher
    ear
    eyou?
    "Owi
    t'
    sSi
    pho
    Me:onmywaytofetchmygownI
    '
    llbe
    homeinanhourorso
    Him:Nocomestrai
    ghtathomenowI
    '
    llf
    etch
    yourgownfory
    ou
    Me:
    uhwhy?AndI
    '
    mjust10mi
    nut
    esaway
    f
    rom t
    hest
    ore
    Hi
    m:Mbal
    enhl
    epl
    easej
    ustcomeback
    home
    Me:why?I
    stheresomet
    hingwr
    ong?
    *he
    st
    arti
    ngtoscar
    eme*
    Him:comehomeandwe'
    l
    ltal
    kwheny
    ouget
    here
    Me:Si
    phoIhav
    eacasetoatt
    endatcourt
    tomor
    rowandthest
    orewi
    ll
    closeanyt
    ime
    soonnow
    Him:Iknow,Iknowuhm youcanbor
    row
    Tasha'sgownI'l
    lgof
    etchitf
    oryoui
    tpl
    ease
    comebackhome
    Me:
    Siphoy
    ouar
    escar
    ing
    mmmmmmmmmmm* theheadacheki
    cks
    i
    n*
    Him:WhatWhatwh.
    .ar
    eyouok?
    *pani
    cki
    ng
    voi
    ce*
    Me:
    mmm y
    eahj
    ustat
    err
    ibl
    eheadache
    Him:
    *si
    ghsinr
    eli
    ef*
    sispl
    easet
    rustmeand
    comeback
    Isi
    ghandaskbab'
    zondi
    tot
    urnar
    ound
    Me:okandIsuggesty
    ougoov
    eratTasha'
    s
    r
    ightnow
    Hi
    m:okILov
    eYou
    Me:
    ILov
    eYouToo/
    /
    Wehangup, thi
    sheadacheisnowshowi ng
    mef lamesi t
    'sevenheavyandont heot her
    handMJkeepsst andi
    ngupandsi t
    ting
    downandheseemsuneasy .
    ..
    thecarqui ckl
    y
    brakesandmyupperbodymov esforwar dI
    pickedagr eatdaytoputonaseat beltbut
    thatreli
    efsuddenlygoesoutthewindowas
    twoguy spointusoutof ft
    hecarwi thguns,
    wesl owlymakeourwayoutandIf eel
    compl etel
    yweakahht hisheadache
    Bab'
    zondi
    :pl
    easedon'
    thur
    tuswebegy
    ou
    Hepleadswhil
    eIlookaroundandit'
    sso
    quiet
    ,thef
    ir
    stguyatt
    empt stowalk
    towardsmebutMJscr atcheshi
    sleg
    deeplyhef
    all
    sdownscr eamingi
    npain
    2ndguy
    :dudewhat
    'swr
    ong?
    1stguy:*
    groani
    ngi
    npain*Idon'
    tknow
    man* gr
    oans*but*
    *gr
    oans*don'
    tlett
    hem
    escape.
    The1stguyshoot
    stwoofourtyr
    eshet
    hen
    wal
    kst owar
    dsmebutonceagainMJ
    scr
    atcheshi
    slegdeepl
    ytoohealso
    scr
    eams.
    Bab'zondi
    :Mbal
    irun*
    hesay
    sashest
    art
    running*
    Ifeel
    soweakbutIgiv
    eitmyall
    andrunbut
    soonstopasIr
    eal
    izeMJisnotbesi
    demeI
    t
    urnar
    oundandf
    indhi
    m wal
    ki
    ngsl
    owl
    y
    Me:
    buddycomeont
    hisi
    snot
    imet
    owal
    k
    Il
    ookathi
    m andr
    eal
    i
    zehel
    ooksweak
    Me:
    MJwhat
    'swr
    ong?
    Hecan'thearnoranswermebutIask
    anyway,
    Itryt
    obr ushhisheadbutqui
    ckl
    y
    removemyhandashi sfurfeel
    shot
    Me: *
    panicki
    ng*MJyouarehot,
    pleasetryt
    o
    runwewi llr
    estwhenwearefarfrom here
    please*
    Ilookathi
    m wit
    hpleadi
    ngey es*
    Hestartr
    unni
    ngslowlyIal
    sodothesame
    andIcannolongerseebab'
    zondi
    .
    Me:
    *scr
    eami
    ng*AHHHHH
    Ifal
    ldownast hestinginmyleggetsmor e
    andmor epai
    nfulIthinkIj
    ustgotshotoh
    godwher ear
    ey ou?MJi salsodownwi t
    h
    me
    "
    Wel
    ll
    ookwhatwehav
    eher
    e"
    It
    urnmyheadWHATTHE? ?Itr
    ytost
    and
    upwit
    hthegunst
    il
    lpoi
    ntedatme
    "Si
    ncenoonei
    sher
    eIguesst
    her
    e'l
    lbeno
    goodbyes"
    Thegungoesof fwithmyey esclosed,Ifeel
    astingonmyst omachasIf allagai
    nwi t
    h
    myar msaroundit,
    i
    t'
    ssopai nfulandIcan
    feelmybreathr
    unningoutIlookar ound
    slowlyt
    hisgoonisalreadygone.
    Me:
    *l
    owvoi
    ce*MJmmmm*
    thepai
    nget
    s
    wor
    se*
    Ibri
    ngmyhandupt oseehowmuchbl ood
    I'
    mlosingbutiti
    scompl
    etel
    ydry,
    ifIgot
    shotthenhowcomeam Inotbleeding
    whil
    eI '
    mfeel
    ingsomuchpain?
    Me:
    MJ
    Ahhwhereishe?Il
    ookdownatmy
    stomachbutmyeyesl
    andonMJwhoi son
    thegr
    oundinfr
    ontofmyfeetl
    osi
    ngt
    oo
    muchblood.
    Me:
    MJNONONO!
    !
    It
    rytoseatupbutt
    hepai
    nisunbear
    able,
    MJmusthav ej
    umpedandtookabull
    etfor
    me,ifheist
    heonewhogotshott
    henwhy
    am Iinsomuchpai
    nandrunni
    ngoutof
    br
    eath.
    Me:
    M..
    ..
    ..
    *ev
    ery
    thi
    ngt
    urnsdar
    k*
    ~i
    nser
    t27~

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °
    She' sweak, she'sinpai nIcanf eelitandI '
    ve
    beent ryi
    ngt oreachheronherphonebuti t
    ri
    ngsunanswer edandt hesamet hing
    appl iestobab' zondi whichi smaki ngme
    freakout ,
    Iturnthecarar oundMbal iwil
    l
    hav et oforgivemecauseshecomesf i
    rst
    thegownwi l
    lhav etowai t,Ihav et ofi
    ndout
    whet hershe'sokf i
    rst.Idriveont helane
    thatbab' zondi usual l
    yusewhenhet akes
    Mbal itowor korwhenhebr i
    ngsher
    back, it'
    sstarti
    ngt ogetdar kandMbal iis
    get t
    ingweakerandweaker ,
    afteraf ew
    mi nut esIseeamal ef i
    gurer unni ngfrom
    thedi r
    ecti
    onI 'm headedt o...
    wai tthat'
    s
    bab' zondi butwher ei
    sMbal i
    ?Ist opt hecar
    thengetoutofi tandwai tf orbab' zondi,he
    get st omebr eathless
    Hi
    m:*
    gaspi
    ngf
    orai
    r*t
    hankgod
    Me:
    wher
    e'sMbal
    i
    ?
    Hel
    ooksbehi
    ndhi
    m
    Hi
    m:shewasj
    ustbehi
    ndme
    Me:
    *tr
    yingt
    ost
    aycal
    m*okgeti
    nthecar
    Webothgeti
    nsi
    det
    hecarandIcont
    inue
    dr
    ivi
    ng
    Bab'zondi:
    whyareyoudrivi
    ngt othat
    di
    rection?WecanjustwaitforMbal i
    here,t
    hoseguysareonthatdirect
    ion.
    Me:whatguy
    s?Andt
    ell
    mewhatexact
    ly
    happened
    Henar r
    atest hestory,t
    hoseguy sbab'
    zondi
    speakofpoi ntedtheirf
    r eakingguntomy
    si
    ster,
    theyfuckenpoi ntedt hei
    rgunstoherI
    hopethey'v
    est ar
    tedrunni ngcausejudgi
    ng
    bywhatbab' zondi j
    usttoldmeMJ
    scrat
    chedthem butmeandSJwon' tbeso
    ni
    cesot
    heybet
    terber
    unni
    ng.
    Bab'
    zondi
    :whyar
    eyoucont
    in.
    ..
    Me:babaIgett
    haty
    ouar einshockbutt
    his
    i
    smysi st
    erwearetal
    kingaboutsoI'
    m
    gonnakeepdri
    vi
    ngtil
    lIseemysister
    .
    Iconti
    nuedri
    vi
    ngbutquickl
    ystopwhenI
    seeMbali'
    sbodyl
    ayi
    nglifel
    essonthe
    ground,
    Iqui
    ckl
    ygetoutoffthecarandr
    un
    toher
    Me:
    Mbal
    i
    *Il
    i
    ght
    lysl
    apher
    *Mbal
    i
    .
    Fucknor esponseIcheckherpul seit'
    s
    therebutweak, Iscanherwhol ebodyand
    seebl oodonherl eg,
    THEYSHOTHER? ?as
    I'
    mt ryingtopickherupIgetdi str
    actedby
    thebl oodbelowherf eeti
    tlookslikeit
    's
    mov ing,Imovemyhandt otouchi tbutthi
    nk
    otherwi sewhatifthi
    siswitchcraft?SJthen
    keepspushi
    ngmet owardsthemovi
    ng
    bloodIendupmov i
    ngmyhandagain,
    asmy
    handgetscl
    osertothebloodIf
    eel
    somethingf
    urySHITMJmusthav egot
    shottoo,
    whydoIdonow? ?
    "TakeMbalit
    othehospi
    tal
    youmook"
    my
    subconsci
    oussays.
    I
    'm notthinkingstraight,Ipi
    ckMbal iupand
    placeheratt hebackseatt hengobackt o
    pickMJupGODhe' ssoheav yandbyt he
    l
    ookbab' zondi i
    sgi vi
    ngmeI '
    m sur ehe
    thinksI'
    m crazy,IplaceMJdownatt he
    backseatwi thMbali Ipickedupt hewrong
    dayt owearawhi teT- shir
    tahhwhyam i t
    thinki
    ngoft -shi
    rtswhi lemysi st
    erisdying.I
    driveofftothehospi tal i
    nfull
    speedmaki ng
    ashor tprayerforMbal iandMJ, Igettothe
    hospitali
    nnot i
    meIr unwi t
    hMbal ishouti
    ng
    f
    orhel
    p
    Nur
    se:
    whathappenedt
    oher
    ?
    Me:*pl
    aci
    ngheronthest
    ret
    cher
    *shegot
    shotpl
    easeherpul
    seisf
    adi
    nghelpher
    .
    Thenur senodast heytakeheraway ,
    now
    whatdoIdowi t
    hMJ?I fonlyIcouldsee
    hi
    mI '
    m prett
    ysur eIwoul dbeablet oput
    pressureonhi swound, l
    etmecal l
    ncami ,
    I
    quickl
    yt akeoutmyphoneandcal lncami
    sheansweraf ter3r ings//
    Her
    :son
    Me:
    himahIneedy
    ourhel
    p
    Her
    :I
    'm ki
    ndofi
    nthemi
    ddl
    eofsomet
    hing
    Me:
    Mbal
    iandMJgots.
    ..
    Her
    :I
    'l
    lcal
    lyouback/
    /
    Shehangsupl
    eav
    ingmef
    rust
    rat
    ed
    Bab'
    zondi
    :cal
    m downsont
    hedoct
    orswi
    l
    l
    dothei
    rbest
    Whendi
    dhegeti
    nher
    e?
    Me:y
    oulookt
    ir
    edbaba,pl
    easecal
    lacabt
    o
    comefet
    chyouI'
    l
    lkeepyouupdated
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    texact
    lyhav
    ethephonewi
    thme
    Ical
    lthecabf
    orhi
    m andgi
    vehi
    m some
    money .
    Hi
    m:thanksson,
    I
    'l
    lkeepy
    oursi
    steri
    nmy
    pr
    ayers.
    Inodandhewal ksoutl eavingmepaci ng
    upanddown, MOM! !!Ofcour se..
    ..Idial her
    numberbuti tri
    ngsunanswer edIcall dad
    andhi sphonealsor ingsunanswer ed, I
    slowlysli
    dedownt hewal landletmyt ears
    fall
    Ifeelsohelplessr i
    ghtnow, Ireall
    yhope
    thatmysi st
    erandMJget sok. ..
    "Si
    r"Ir
    aisemyheadandseeadoct
    or
    l
    ookingatmeIwipemyt ear
    swi
    tht
    heback
    ofmyhandandst andup.
    Me:
    howi
    sshe?Howi
    smysi
    ster
    ?
    Her
    emai
    nsqui
    et
    Me:
    TALKDAMNI
    T!!
    !
    Whyi
    shebei
    ngqui
    et?
    Him:
    *si
    ghs*Sirwetookoutt
    hebull
    eton
    herl
    egandlucki
    lyshedi
    dn'
    tl
    osetoomuch
    bl
    oodbut.
    .
    Me:
    butwhat
    ???
    Him:thi
    si sgonnasoundconf usinguhm
    yoursisterseemsper fect
    lyfineshe
    should'
    venotbeenunconsci ousi nt
    hefi
    rst
    placesinceshedi dn'
    tlosetoomuchbl ood
    butsomet hingthatwear estill
    tryi
    ngto
    fi
    gureoutpl acedherintodeepcoma.
    Me:
    THENWHYTHEFUCKAREYOUSTI
    LL
    DOI
    NGHERE!
    ?
    Hequi
    ckl
    yrushesof
    f,
    Ical
    lChr
    is/
    /
    Hi
    m:whyar
    eyoucal
    l
    ingmet
    hisl
    ate?
    Me:IthinkI'mlosingmymi ndman,mysist
    er
    i
    sindeepcomaf orsomethingthesest
    upi
    d
    doctorscan' tf
    ind,myparentsaren'
    t
    answeringt hei
    rphones,I
    'm allal
    onehereI
    THINKI 'M FUCKI NLOSINGMYMI ND.
    Hi
    m:woahwoahsl
    owdown,
    whi
    chhospi
    tal
    ar
    eyouat?
    Itel
    lhim andhesayshe'sonhisway.Aft
    er
    hangingupIgositnexttoSJonthewaiting
    chai
    rsthenmyphoner ingsi
    tisncami//
    Me:
    mah
    Her:
    I'
    m sorr
    yaboutear
    li
    er,
    whatdi
    dyou
    wantmet ohel
    py ouwi
    th?
    Me: MbaliandMJgotshot ,I
    'm atthe
    hospitalaswespeakt hedoct orsaidthat
    Mbal i
    isfinebutshewenti nt
    odeepcoma
    andont heot herhandMJhasl ostalotof
    bloodIdon' tevenknowi fhe'sstil
    lali
    ve,my
    mi ndisblankIdon'tknowwhatt odo* Ifeel
    tearsbuildi
    ngupagai n*
    Her:ohmygoduhhl etmegot elly
    our
    parentssowecandr i
    vethere,
    I'
    m gonna
    needy outotakeMJtoy ourhouseand
    keepbr ushi
    nghisf
    urforaslongasy oucan.
    Me:
    butIcan'
    tl
    eav
    ethehospi
    tal
    ,Ican'
    t
    l
    eav
    eMbal i
    Her
    :l
    iket
    hedoct
    orsai
    d,she'
    sfi
    ne
    Me:
    but
    ..
    ..
    .
    Her
    :what
    'shappeni
    ngt
    oMbali i
    sveryr
    arei
    t
    i
    salmostthesameasyoursi
    tuati
    onbuton
    anot
    herl
    evel
    Me:
    uh?Whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Her:
    youareconnectedtoyoursist
    eryou
    canfeelwhenshe'
    si npai
    nbuty oudonot
    feel
    thatexactpai
    ny oucanfeeli
    twhen
    she'
    sweakbuty oudonotf eelweak
    Me:wher
    ear eyougoi
    ngwi
    tht
    his?
    *ser
    iousl
    y
    she'
    sconfusi
    ngme*
    Her:youareconnectedtoy oursist
    erbut
    sheisn'tconnect
    edtoy ou,yoursisteri
    s
    connectedtoherjaguarandherj aguaris
    connectedtohertheyhav east r
    ongbond
    thatnokeeperhasev erhadwi thhis/her
    guiden.Iti
    snotyoursisterwhoi sincoma
    butherjaguaris.
    What
    ?
    Me:
    soar
    eyousay
    ingi
    fMJget
    sbet
    ter
    Mbal
    iwi
    l
    lal
    sogetbet
    ter
    ?
    Her:yesnowIhavetogot alktoyour
    parentsI'
    l
    lseeyouprobablyinthemorni
    ng
    bye//
    Shehangsup,
    Chri
    srunsi
    nsi
    dest
    rai
    ghtt
    o
    meandwebr ohug
    Me:wehavet
    ogot
    omyhouseIhav
    etodo
    somethi
    ng
    Henodsandwewal
    kout
    Hi
    m:whoshother
    ?Isi
    toneofourenemi
    es?
    Me:
    no
    Hi
    m:t
    henwho?
    Me:*IshakemyheadasIf
    eelanger
    brewingup*SomegoonandI'
    m goi
    ngto
    fi
    ndherandmakesuresheregr
    etsshewas
    everborn.
    .
    °
    Khay
    a°

    She'sbewitchi
    nghim,SHE'SBEWI TCHING
    MYBROTHER! !I'
    vebeenwat chingv i
    deo
    footagesoftheMkhizeAttorney slawfir
    m
    start
    ingfr
    om thedayMJst art
    edact i
    ng
    funnyupunt i
    ltodaynxxshe'sgonnaf ucken
    knowme.
    MJ:what
    'swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ouwhyar
    eyouso
    angr
    y?
    Me:
    comewat
    cht
    his
    Hi
    m:canIwat
    chittomorr
    ow?Ihavet
    ogo
    pi
    ckupLondi
    she'ssl
    eepi
    ngover
    Me:
    ISAI
    DCOMEWATCHTHI
    S!!
    Hi
    m:*
    giv
    ingmeadeadst
    are*y
    oubet
    ter
    watchyourt
    ongue,
    don'
    tev
    erspeakt
    ome
    l
    ikethat
    Me:
    orel
    sewhat
    ?
    Hi
    m:whathasgot
    teni
    ntoy
    ou?
    Me:nxxy
    ouknowwhat?Watcht
    hisat
    any
    timeyouwantI
    '
    m outof
    fher
    e.
    Itakemycarkey sandl eavehim st
    anding
    thereanddriv
    estraighttomypar ent
    s'
    house/home,star
    ti
    ngf rom t
    odayIwi l
    lnot
    drinknoreatanyt
    hingthatmyP. Agivesto
    meIdonotwantt obebewi tchedespecial
    ly
    sincemyP. Ahasbeeney ei
    ngmewi thher
    bigsexyeyes.
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t28~
    °
    Khay
    a°

    Dad:
    whyexact
    lyar
    eyouher
    e,agai
    n?
    Mom:
    *hi
    tt
    inghi
    sshoul
    der
    *ZWELAKHE!
    !
    Dad:
    what
    ?I'
    mjustcur
    ious
    Me:comeondadIjustcamet
    ovi
    sity
    ou
    guy
    scauseImissedyou
    Mom:ncoehmybabyIalsomi
    ssedy
    out
    oo
    i
    ncl
    udingyourbr
    other
    Dad:nahsomethi
    ngisdefi
    nit
    elyup,
    didy
    ou
    fi
    ghtwithyourbr
    otherorwhat?
    Me:
    no,
    I
    'm ser
    iousImi
    ssedy
    ou
    Dadlooksatmesquint
    inghiseyestr
    yingt
    o
    readmebutImaint
    ainastrai
    ghtface
    Me:*
    smi
    l
    ing*mommyI '
    m hungr
    yIhav
    en'
    t
    at
    ewhol
    eday*pout
    ing*
    Mom:
    what
    ?Why
    ?
    Me:
    wel
    ldadwasn'tsupposetocomeback
    t
    odayf
    rom Pi
    eter
    mar i
    tzbur
    g,sohe.
    .
    Dad:
    mybeautif
    ulwif
    egomakesomet hi
    ng
    fory
    oursonandstopaski
    ngquest
    ions
    can'
    tyouseeheishungr
    y.
    Mom l
    ooksatdadf
    oramomentt hen
    st
    andsupandgototheki
    tchen.
    Dad:
    doy
    ouwantmet
    osl
    eepont
    hecouch?
    Me:
    wenawhatwerey
    out
    hinki
    ngst
    arv
    ing
    methewhol
    eday?
    Dad:
    wholeday?Ionl
    ylandedher
    eat12h00
    whydidn'
    tyoueatbr
    eakfast
    ?
    Me:
    Idi
    dn'
    thav
    eti
    met
    oeatbr
    eakf
    ast
    Hi
    m:okIguessIowey
    oul
    unch.
    Me:
    Ipr
    efermoney
    Him:*chuckl
    ing*
    ok,
    sowhatreall
    yhappened
    betweeny ouandyourbr
    other
    ?
    Me:
    not
    hing
    Hi
    m:khay
    ayouar
    emysonIknowy
    ou
    Me:
    I'
    m ser
    iousdad
    Mom comesbackwi
    thf
    oodwhi
    chIst
    art
    at
    tacki
    ngt
    hemomentshegi
    vei
    ttome.
    Dad:
    areyougoi
    ngt
    otel
    lmeorshoul
    dIf
    ind
    outmysel
    f?
    Ichokeonmyf
    oodandkeepcoughi
    ng
    Me:*cough*nodadser
    iousnot
    hing
    happened*cough*
    Mom:ar
    ey ouok?Andwhatar
    eyout
    wo
    t
    alki
    ngabout?
    Dad:
    Ibel
    i
    ev et
    hatsomet
    hing'
    supbet
    ween
    hi
    m andhisbr
    other
    Mom:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatme*wel
    li
    sther
    e?
    Me:
    No
    Mom: Khay
    al ookatmestr
    aightintheeye
    andtellmetherei
    snothi
    ngupi fnothi
    ngis
    real
    l
    yup.
    Ilookst
    rai
    ghtatherey
    esahhIcan'
    tl
    iet
    o
    thisl
    ady,
    Iqui
    ckl
    ylookatmypl
    ate
    Me:
    ther
    eisnot
    hingup
    Dad:
    yousee?
    Therei snowayI 'mtelli
    ngthem thatmy
    brotherisbeingbewi t
    chedbyhi sP.AIwi l
    l
    deal withhermy sel
    f,
    ifdadfindsouthewi l
    l
    alsohur tt
    hisgir l
    'sl
    ov edonesbef or
    e
    sendinghert ohermakerandIr eall
    ydonot
    wantt oinvolveinnocentpeopl e.Ieatmy
    foodi nacompl eterushwithmypar ents
    l
    ooki ngatmet hatIendupget ti
    nghi ccups,
    Ir
    ushtotheki
    tchen,
    placethepl
    ateonthe
    si
    nkanddri
    nksomewat er
    .Igobacktothe
    l
    oungetomypar ent
    s
    Me:welllookatt
    heti
    meI '
    m soti
    red
    goodnightfol
    ks*
    Isayheadingt
    owardst
    he
    stai
    rs*
    Dad:
    Bri
    ngYourFlatAssBackToThi
    s
    Couch*
    Itur
    naround*
    Mom: *
    eyei
    nghi
    m*don'
    tbesohar
    sh
    Khabazel
    a
    Me:I
    '
    m seri
    ousmeandMJdi
    dn'
    tfi
    ghtI
    '
    m
    j
    ustali
    tt
    lepissedathi
    m
    Dad:
    *rai
    singhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    forwhat
    ?
    Me:
    not
    hingmaj
    or*
    faki
    ngasmi
    l
    e*
    Mom:
    thenwhyar
    eyouf
    aki
    ngasmi
    l
    e?
    Ishoul
    dn'
    thav
    ecameher
    e
    Dad:
    okt
    henI
    '
    lli
    tfi
    ndoutmy
    sel
    f
    Me:dadpl
    ease*
    looki
    ngathi
    m wi
    thpl
    eadi
    ng
    ey
    es*
    Dad:
    MyWi f
    elet
    'sgot
    obedandt
    alkabout
    somethi
    ngs
    Me:
    andmyassai
    n'
    tfl
    atbyt
    heway
    Theybothlaughandst
    andupt
    henwal
    kup
    tothei
    rroom.
    Me:*si
    ghi
    ng*MJIprayandhopeyouhave
    al
    readywatchedt
    hosevi
    deofoot
    ages.
    Iwal
    kupt
    omyr
    oom.

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Chr
    is:
    dudey
    ouar
    ereal
    l
    yfr
    eaki
    ngmeout
    Me:
    bywhat
    ?
    Him:you'
    vebeendoi
    ngthatwit
    hyourhand
    sincewegotherewhi
    lesayi
    ngsomet hi
    ngs
    thatIcan'
    treal
    l
    ymakeout.
    Icont
    inuebr
    ushi
    ngMJ'
    sfur
    Him:
    li
    keit
    'sal
    ready3am andy
    ou'
    vebeen
    doi
    ngthatsi
    nce23h00orso.
    Ithi
    nkf
    orawhil
    e,I
    '
    veknownhi
    mfor8y
    ear
    s
    nowsoheregoesnot
    hing
    Me:
    youknowIt
    rusty
    our
    ight
    ?
    Hi
    m:wel
    lyeah
    It
    akeabr
    eat
    handt
    ell
    him ev
    ery
    thi
    ng.
    Him:
    *shocked*
    thi
    ssoundsi
    ntr
    igui
    ngand
    scar
    yatthesametime,
    sowhenarewe
    fi
    ndi
    ngthisl
    adysowecandeal wi
    thher
    ?
    Me:
    *rai
    singmyey
    ebr
    ow*
    we?
    ??
    Hi
    m:y
    esSi
    phowe,
    youknowI
    '
    vegoty
    our
    backmos
    Me:
    thanksmant
    hatr
    eal
    l
    ymeansal
    ot.
    Hi
    m:ahhnowIr
    eal
    l
    ywi
    shIwasr
    oyal
    ty
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*why
    ?
    Hi
    m:soIcanknowhowi
    tfeel
    sli
    ket
    oseea
    j
    aguarl
    i
    ve
    Me:
    wel
    lyoucanf
    eel
    SJ'
    sfurhe'
    sri
    ghtnext
    t
    oyou
    Hejumpsof
    fthecouchwi
    thhi
    sey
    esout
    makingmel
    augh.
    Hi
    m:*
    hol
    dinghi
    schest
    *duder
    eal
    l
    y?
    Me:whathewon'
    tdoanyt
    hingt
    oyouwel
    l
    unl
    essItel
    lhi
    mtooorify
    ouareathr
    eat
    Hi
    m: y
    oudoknowthatt
    hismakesyou
    st
    rongerandmor
    efear
    edthanR.T
    Me:
    Iwoul
    dagr
    eewi
    thy
    oubutwedon'
    t
    r
    eal
    l
    yknowR.
    Tli
    vemay
    behehaswor
    se
    Hi
    m:whati
    sworset
    hanaj
    aguar
    ?*gi
    vi
    ngme
    abor
    edface*
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknowuhm al
    i
    on
    Him:wher
    ewouldhegetal
    oint
    hatcoul
    ddo
    anyt
    hinghewants?
    Me:
    wel
    l okbuti
    fIhadt
    ofi
    ghthi
    m Iwoul
    d
    l
    etSJf
    ightforme.
    Him:*l
    aughi
    ng*dudeyouhaveajaguarand
    youaresti
    ll
    scaredactual
    l
    yint
    imidat
    edby
    R.T?
    Me:
    I.
    .
    Igetdist
    urbedbysomeoneknockingatt
    he
    dooritmustbencamiandmypar ents
    Me:
    coul
    dyougett
    hedoorf
    orme?
    Hi
    m:whoopensadoorat3o'
    cl
    ocki
    nthe
    mor
    ning?
    Me:
    Chr
    ismar
    n
    Hi
    m:okwher
    e'sy
    ourgun?
    Me:
    youar
    enotbei
    ngser
    iousr
    ightnow
    Hi
    m:ort
    ell
    SJt
    ocomewi
    thme
    Me:
    Chr
    isbr
    aht
    hatcoul
    dbemypar
    ent
    s
    Him:
    *eyesout
    *yourpar
    ent
    s?Asi
    ntheKi
    ng
    andQueen?
    Me:i
    fIhadmygunwi t
    hmeIwoul dbe
    shooti
    ngyourdumbassr
    ightnow,goopen
    thefr
    eaki
    ngdoor!
    Hi
    m:okok.
    Hegoestoopenthedoorwi
    thmeshaking
    myheadwhil
    ebrushi
    ngMJ'sfur
    ,hecomes
    backwi
    thncami.
    Ncami
    :
    hel
    l
    oson
    Me:
    howar
    eyoumah
    Her
    :I
    'm goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Me:
    I'
    m good,
    wher
    e'smom anddad?
    Her
    :t
    heygothel
    dup
    Me:*
    chuckl
    i
    ng*
    andy
    ouexpectmet
    o
    bel
    i
    evethat
    ?
    Her:
    *comingcl
    osert
    ome*
    whywoul
    dn'
    tyou?
    *t
    ouchingMJ*
    Me:Mbalii
    satthehospit
    al,Shegot
    shot,
    Dadwouldendani mportant
    confer
    encecal
    lifhehearsthatMbali
    gota
    l
    itt
    leharml
    essscrat
    chsowher ear
    ethey
    real
    lyandwhydidn'
    ttheycome?
    Her:
    Ican'
    ttel
    lyouImadeapromise,
    coul
    d
    youtakemeandMJt oMbali
    '
    sr oom?
    Il
    ookatherf
    oramomentbuti
    t'
    susel
    ess
    causethisl
    adyisunreadabl
    e,It
    akethem t
    o
    Mbali
    'sroom andplaceMJont opofthe
    bed
    Me:
    wil
    lhebeok?
    Her
    :It
    hinkso
    Me:
    whati
    fhedoesn'
    tmakei
    t?Whatabout
    Mbal
    i?
    Her:
    *si
    ghing*Theyar
    eOneso.
    ..
    *shr
    uggi
    ng
    hershoul
    ders*
    MJbet
    terget
    sbet
    ter
    Me:andwhatwi
    l
    lhappent
    omei
    fMbal
    i
    uhm..
    Her:
    youwon'
    tdi
    ebutyourl
    i
    fewi
    l
    lnev
    er
    everbet
    hesameagai
    n.
    Me:atmomentsl
    i
    ketheseIr
    eal
    l
    ywi
    shme
    andMbali
    weren'
    troy
    alt
    y
    Shechuckl
    esandf
    ocusonMJ.
    Her:
    Isuggestt
    hatyouandy
    ourf
    ri
    endr
    est
    youbothseem t
    ir
    ed.
    Me:
    yeah.
    Iwal
    koutcl
    osi
    ngt
    hedoorbehi
    ndme.
    .

    Fri
    day

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    MJwaitsi
    mpat
    ient
    lyf
    orMbal
    enhl
    eout
    side
    cour
    t.
    Hi
    m:whymustsheal
    way
    sdot
    his?
    AsMJ' sfathersai
    dthisi
    soneoft he
    biggestcases,MJhadal i
    ttl
    ebitoff
    earof
    mi ghtl
    osingthecasewithoutMbalit
    here
    especial
    lysincehedidn'
    tfocusonthiscase
    whenheknewv er
    ywellthi
    sisabig
    case,
    si
    ncehenol ongerhasmbalenhle'
    s
    numbershecallstheoff
    icetoaskforher
    numberstherecepti
    oni
    stanswers
    i
    mmedi at
    ely
    //
    Her:
    Mkhi
    zeAt
    tor
    ney
    showmayweassi
    st
    you?
    Hi
    m:t
    hisi
    sMJIurgent
    lyneedMi
    ss
    Mt
    hembu'
    sphonenumber.
    Her
    :ohsirIthoughtyouwouldpasshereat
    t
    heoffi
    cef i
    rst,
    amessagecamei nthi
    s
    morni
    ngsay ingthatMissMthembuwon't
    makeitt
    owor kti
    llf
    urt
    hernoti
    ce
    MJ:
    WHAT!
    ?WHY?
    Her
    :she'
    satt
    hehospi
    tal
    MJr unoutofwordssohej
    usthangsup
    t
    hinkingofwhatt
    odoandalsothi
    nki
    ng
    t
    hati
    fonl
    yhefocusedonthecasecausehe
    woul
    dn'
    tbef
    reaki
    ngoutifhedi
    d.
    .
    MJmanagest ogetthejudget opostpone
    thecase, hetri
    edtoi mprov i
    sei nsi
    decour t
    buti twasn' tenoughsohepl annedon
    gettingMbal i'
    snotesforthiscasesohewi l
    l
    bepr eparednextt i
    mei fMbal ii
    snotback
    byt hen, anywaysi ncehel eftcourtearlyhe
    decidest owor kathomesohemakeshi s
    wayt ohisst udyandseest hel aptopsti
    ll
    openedandi mmedi atel
    yt hinksofhi s
    brother ,
    hesi ghsashewal ksar oundthe
    table,takesaseatandbr ingt helaptop
    closert henst art
    swat chi
    ngt hev i
    deo
    footages.
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t29~
    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    MJf rozei nhischairbreathi


    ngheav ywi t
    h
    vainsv i
    sibleonhisforeheadl ookingl i
    ke
    theyar eaboutt opopany ti
    mesoonand
    alsoj udgingbyt heangert hatiswr i
    tt
    enall
    ov erhisf acethelovepot i
    onhadal r
    eady
    exitedhi sbodyt hroughhissweat .Het ri
    ed
    togr abhi sphonesohecoul dcall his
    brotherbuthi shandswer eshaki ngi nfact
    hiswhol ebodywasshaki ngwi th
    anger .Londi madeherwayi nside,MJcal l
    ed
    heronhi swaybackf rom cour tandasked
    hert ocomeov ersotheycoul dwor k
    togetherandchi ll
    afterthat,
    shedi dn'teven
    callouthi snameshej ustf i
    guredt hatheis
    i
    nhi sst udysi ncehedi dsayhewoul dbe
    wor
    kingathome.
    Londi
    :
    *wal
    ki
    ngi
    n*heybabe
    MJrai
    sedhi
    sheadwi
    thhiseyesbloodshot
    r
    edandyoucanal
    mostseeveinsonthem
    Londi
    :
    whydoy
    oul
    ookl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ?
    MJstoodupwi thhismusclesall
    buff
    edup
    hi
    ssuitwasnowsuf focat
    inghim asi
    thas
    becamesmallforhim,hi
    ssightmade
    Londi
    'sbodyshiverwit
    hfri
    ght
    Londi:
    wh..ya.
    .r
    eyoul
    oo.l
    ooki
    ngatmme
    l
    ikethat*
    tryi
    ngtomovebackwar
    ds*
    Thev i
    deofootagesplayedinMJ'shead
    overandoveragainalsothewayhewas
    tr
    eati
    ngMbal ihi
    sLenhleallbecauseofthi
    s
    l
    adyinf r
    ontofhim,hewalkedtowardsher
    sti
    ll
    breathi
    ngheavywi t
    hhisdeadlylook
    Londitr
    iedtorunoutbutMJj usttook2
    stepsandpul
    lherbyherhai
    rthenpinsher
    atthewall
    wit
    hhisfir
    m handsaroundher
    neck.
    Londi:
    *tappi
    ngMJ'
    shands*I
    ..
    I.
    .ca.
    ..
    n'
    t
    bre.
    .eat
    h
    MJt ight
    enedhishandsthatt hesuitstarted
    teari
    nguparoundhismuscl es,Londi'
    sf ace
    start
    edtoturnpalewit
    hherey esroll
    i
    ng
    up,i
    nsteadofstoppi
    nghet i
    ght enthem ev en
    mor ehardandLondi'
    stracheamadea
    cracksoundwithfoam comi ngoutof fher
    mout hshethentookherlastbr eat
    hwi th
    herneckinMJ'shands.
    MJslowlylet
    sgoofherwi thnor egr
    etsand
    herbodysli
    desdownt othefloor
    ,heslowly
    goesbacktohischairst
    il
    lseeingredtocall
    hi
    sbrother
    ,ashe'sabouttoreachforhis
    phonehiseyeslandonthelaptopthe
    footagewher ehecalledMbal iahoewas
    playinghej ustlosti
    thetookt helapt
    opand
    threwi tagainstthewall,
    fl
    ippedthetable
    ov er(atablethatneedsat l
    east4ment o
    car r
    yhej ustfli
    ppeditoverwi t
    hin2seconds)
    het hengoesbackt oLondi '
    sbodywi t
    hhis
    clothestearingup.
    .
    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    I
    'v
    ebeentr
    yingtor
    eachmypar entssi
    nceI
    wokeupat12h30butIsti
    l
    lcan'
    treach
    t
    hem andt
    hatissounli
    kethem.
    Me:
    areyousurethaty
    outoldmypar
    ent
    s
    t
    hatMbali
    isatthehospi
    tal
    ?
    Ncami
    :
    yeahwhy
    ?
    Me:
    okt
    henIguessI
    '
    m dr
    ivi
    ngdownt
    othe
    v
    il
    laget
    ofi
    ndoutwhytheyar
    en'
    ther
    esi
    nce
    y
    oudonotwanttot
    ell
    me
    Her:
    yourf
    athermademepromisenott
    otell
    youandstopstr
    essi
    ngout
    ,pl
    usIneedyou
    her
    e
    Me:
    why
    ?Andwhy
    ?
    Her:
    you'
    ll
    findoutsoon.
    ..
    becauseIwil
    lneed
    youtocommuni cat
    ewit
    hy oursi
    ster
    .
    Me:
    yousai
    dshe'
    sfi
    nesowhywoul
    dIhav
    e
    t
    ocommunicat
    ewit
    hher?
    Her
    :Idon'
    tknowbutsomehowMbal
    iand
    MJ'
    sbodiesendedupattheA.
    Sdi
    mensi
    on
    Me:*confused*what
    ??A.Sdimensi
    on??
    Whatisthat?AndMbali'
    sbodyisatthe
    hospit
    al,Mj'
    sbodyisri
    ghther
    esohowi s
    thatpossibl
    e?
    Her
    :notasi
    nthei
    ract
    ual
    bodi
    es,
    thei
    rspi
    ri
    ts
    Me:whatar
    etheydoi
    ngt
    her
    e?Wai
    tist
    hata
    goodthi
    ng?
    Her:
    *si
    ghing*
    idon'
    tknow*pause*A.
    S
    di
    mensionisnoplaceforor
    dinar
    ypeople
    soIwill
    needy out
    oconnecttoherandtell
    hertocomebackifshedoesMJwi llf
    oll
    ow
    her.
    Me:whycan'
    tyouconnectt
    oher
    ?Imean
    you'
    vedonei
    tonce
    Her:
    thi
    soneistobi
    gformei
    tneedsy
    ouas
    youareconnect
    edt
    oher
    Me:
    ohohksowhenar
    ewedoi
    ngt
    his?
    Her:
    wearesupposetobedoingthi
    sright
    nowbutI'
    m st
    il
    lstr
    uggl
    ingtomixtheright
    her
    bsforyoutodri
    nksoy oucanconnectto
    her
    Me:
    uhm oksowewi
    l
    ldot
    hist
    omor
    row?
    Her:
    *fr
    ustrat
    ed*Idon'
    tknow,Idon'
    tknow
    whenI'
    llgettheri
    ghtmixt
    urebuti
    tneedsto
    besoonorel se.
    .*
    shepauses*
    Me:
    orel
    sewhat
    ?
    Her:i
    fwedon'
    tdothissoonerthent
    heir
    spi
    ri
    tswil
    lbet
    rappedintheA.Sdimensi
    on
    for
    ever
    Me:
    wh..
    what
    ?*t
    hatcomesoutana
    whi
    sper
    *
    Her:t
    heirbodi
    eswil
    lremainincoma
    for
    ever,
    thedoctor
    swi l
    lcl
    aimthatshe'
    s
    deadbutshewon'tbe
    Me:
    whyshouldbadthingsal
    way
    shappen
    t
    omysist
    er*atearescapes*
    Her
    :I.
    .
    Sheget
    sdi
    stur
    bsbyChr
    iswal
    ki
    ngi
    n.
    Chr
    is:Igott
    hecaranditwasuntouched,
    her
    ear ethekeysandt
    heirphones*
    hesays
    pl
    acingthethi
    ngsontopofthetable*
    Me:
    thanksman
    Hi
    m:*
    looki
    ngatme*
    arey
    oucr
    ying?
    Iqui
    ckl
    ywi
    peof
    fmyt
    ear
    Me:
    andwhati
    fIam?
    Hi
    m:wit
    hy oursi
    steratt
    hehospi
    tal
    uhhI
    woul
    dn'
    tjudge
    Ismi
    l
    e.
    Hi
    m: anywayIhavet
    ogorestbrahIhav
    ea
    pr
    esentati
    ontodotomor
    row,I
    'l
    lseeyou
    af
    terthat,
    goodby
    emah
    Ncami
    :
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    byechi
    l
    d
    Me:
    wai
    tletmewal
    kyouout
    .
    Ist
    andupandwewal
    koutt
    oget
    her
    Hi
    m:soanypr
    ogr
    esswi
    tht
    hej
    aguar
    ?
    Me:well
    letj
    ustsaythi
    ngsj
    ustgot
    compli
    catedandIneedyoutodo
    somethi
    ngforme
    Hi
    m:sur
    eshoot
    Me:Ineedyoutofindherforme,keepherat
    thewarehouse,r
    oughenherupt i
    llI
    'm abl
    e
    tocomeanddeal wi t
    hher,Ihav
    e
    somethingtodot hatneedsmeher eand
    mywhol econcentrat
    ionmustbeher etoo
    Him:
    *smi
    l
    ing*i
    thasbeensol
    ongsinceI
    hadf
    unsodon'
    tworryI
    'v
    egotyou
    Me:
    *smi
    rki
    ng*
    wel
    lyouhav
    etof
    indherf
    ir
    st
    Him:
    tomor
    rowit'
    sSaturdaysoI'
    mjust
    goi
    ngtodothepresent
    ationonl
    yandbythe
    endoft
    omorrowshe'l
    lbeatthewarehouse.
    Me:
    ojahshar
    p
    Iwal
    kbackandt
    urn
    Me:
    OhChr
    is!
    Het
    urns
    Me:
    *smi
    rki
    ng*don'
    tki
    l
    lher
    Iknowthatheget
    scar
    ri
    edaway
    someti
    mes
    Hi
    m:don'
    twor
    rybr
    ah
    Inodandwal
    kbacki
    nsi
    dewhi
    l
    ehewal
    ks
    tohi
    scar.
    .
    °
    Khay
    a°

    I
    'm onmywayt oMJ' shouseoksothe
    thi
    ngisli
    kethi
    smeandMJst ayt
    ogetherat
    hishousebecausewebot hcan'
    tdealli
    vi
    ng
    i
    nmansi onsbyourselv
    essowedeci dedto
    stayathi s,Ialsohav emi nebyt hewaybut
    I'
    m har dlythere..
    ...
    any wayIt hinkMJhas
    seent hef ootagesbynowsoIwantust o
    discusshowwe' lldeal witht hisgi rl
    .Ipar k
    mycarnextt ohist henwal ki nside,throw
    mycarkey sont het ableatt hel oungei t'
    s
    soqui ethemustbewor kingi nhi sst udy ,
    I
    makemywayt hereIopent hehal fclosed
    doorl ookingatmyphonebutt hebl oodon
    thef l
    oorcat chesmyat tent ionIf oll
    owt he
    bloodwi thmyey es(mi ndy ouIhav en't
    raisedmyhead) t
    hebl oodI 'mf ollowi ng
    l
    eadst owai tisthata. .aHead? ?Myey es
    areall outwhoseheadi st hat ?Someone' s
    breathingheav yonmyshoul dersoIr aise
    myheadandl ooksi deway ,wh. ..Idr opmy
    phoneandr unoutscr eami ngIgett omy
    carf r
    eaki ngoutIt rytoopent hecarbut
    reali
    zeIl eftthecarkey si nsi denouhuhI '
    m
    notgoi
    ngbackinwhatifhecomesouther
    e
    ir
    untothesecuri
    tyguar
    dbythegat
    e
    Me:
    *runni
    ngoutofbr
    eat
    h*opent
    hegat
    e
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouokSi
    r
    Me:
    OPENTHEGODDAMNGATE
    Hequicklyopensi tandIquickl
    yrunoutI
    needtocal ldadahhIdon'thavemyphone
    wit
    hme, Irunbackandaskt hesecur i
    tyto
    borr
    owmehi sphoneweeehIdonotknow
    mydad'snumberbyhear t,
    Iaskthesecur i
    ty
    i
    fhehasi tsincehewasempl oyedbyhi m
    andluckyformehehasi tsoIcal l
    him
    i
    mmedi atelyheanswer saft
    eraf ewrings//
    Me:
    dad,
    oht
    hankgodcoul
    dyoucomef
    etch
    me
    Hi
    m:why
    ?Ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    I'
    m notokcomef
    etchme
    Hi
    m:y
    ouhav
    eacardon'
    tyou
    Me:
    thekey
    sar
    einsi
    deMJ'
    shouse
    Hi
    m:andwher
    ear
    eyou?
    Me:
    byhi
    sgat
    e
    Hi
    m:Khay
    amar
    nyouar
    ewast
    ingmyt
    ime
    Me:dadyoursonisi
    nther
    e,noi
    nfactthat
    i
    snoty oursont
    hat'
    sademonactual
    lya
    dev
    el
    Him:
    whatdoyoumeanademon?Khay
    adi
    d
    youangery
    ourbr
    other
    ?
    Me:noIdidn'
    t,
    whenIgotherehewas
    al
    readyangrynowcomefetchme
    Him:y
    ouknowmost
    hathewoul
    dnev
    erhur
    t
    you
    Me:
    wereyouint
    hesameroom ashi
    m?Did
    hel
    ookatyouwi
    thdeadl
    yredeyeswi
    th
    v
    eins?Nonowcomef
    etchme
    Hi
    m:goi
    nsideandchecki
    fhei
    sn'
    thur
    ti
    ng
    hi
    msel
    fI'
    l
    lbether
    ein30//
    Hedropthecall
    Igiv
    ethephonebacktothe
    secur
    it
    yandsitdownwait
    ingfordad,
    I
    'm
    notgoi
    nginther
    e.
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t30~

    °
    Khay
    a°

    Dadarr
    ivesaft
    er30mi
    nut
    esandf
    indsme
    st
    il
    lwai
    tingforhi
    m.
    Hi
    m:whyar
    eyousi
    tt
    ingher
    e?
    Me:
    *st
    andi
    ngup*Iwaswai
    ti
    ngf
    ory
    ou
    Hi
    m:youmeany
    ouhav
    en'
    tcheckedony
    our
    br
    other
    ?
    Me:
    he'
    sfi
    ne
    Hi
    m:di
    dyougoi
    nsi
    det
    ocheckhi
    m?
    Me:
    stopwi
    ththequest
    ions,
    unl
    ockt
    hedoor
    sowecango
    Goi
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    hepassenger
    'ssi
    de
    Hi
    m: i
    fyoudi
    dn'tl
    ooksomuchl i
    kemeI
    wouldbesayi
    ngthenursesgaveust
    he
    wrongchi
    ld,
    nxgetawayfrom mycar
    Me:
    butdad.
    .
    Hi
    m:shutup
    Hedroveinwit
    hmef ol
    l
    owing,
    thenget
    sout
    ofthecarandwal
    kinsi
    desti
    ll
    withme
    fol
    l
    owinghim
    Hi
    m:khay
    aIam noty
    ourgi
    rl
    fr
    iendwhyar
    e
    y
    ousogl
    uedt
    ome?
    Ij
    ustr
    usht
    othel
    oungeandgr
    abmycar
    key
    s
    Dad:
    whati
    sthat
    ?
    Me:
    mykey
    s
    Hi
    m:y
    ourwhat
    ?
    Me:
    key
    sdad,
    carkey
    s
    Him:
    thosearecarkey
    s?*
    giv
    ingmea
    conf
    usedlook*
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatt
    hekey
    s*y
    eah
    Hi
    m:ayl
    etmeseet
    hem
    Me:*gi
    vinghi
    mt hekey
    s*y
    oushoul
    dhav
    e
    youreyescheckedout
    .
    Hetakesthekeysandputthem i
    nsi
    dehi
    s
    pocketandwalktowar
    dsthestudy
    Hi
    m:*
    tur
    ningt
    olookatme*woza(
    come)
    Me:
    *shaki
    ngmyhead*ai
    (no)
    Hi
    m:KHAYALETHUTRISTENMKHI
    ZE
    NGI
    THIWOZA!(ISai
    dCome)
    Irol
    lmyey esandfoll
    owhim,wegett othe
    studythedoorissti
    l
    lopened,dadgoesi n
    fi
    rstwhil
    eImakeashor tprayerthengo
    i
    n...
    yessessuchamessIr eall
    ydi dn'
    tnoti
    ce
    i
    tearli
    erthetabl
    eisspli
    tinhalf,
    thepapers
    areallovert
    heplace
    Dad:
    doy
    ouknowt
    hisgi
    rl
    ?
    Itur
    nt ohiml
    ooki
    ngatthehead,
    i
    tis
    coveredinal
    otofbl
    oodsoIwalkclosert
    o
    i
    t
    Me:
    *shocked*y
    eahIknowher
    Hi
    m:whatdi
    dshedo?
    Me:that
    'sast
    oryf
    orl
    ater
    ,wher
    e'st
    her
    estof
    herbody?
    Him:well
    ther estofherbodyi
    sther
    ebyt
    he
    corner
    *point
    ing*
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatt
    hebody
    *wher
    e'st
    hel
    eg?
    Him:*
    walki
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    hedoor
    *inbet
    ween
    yourl
    egs
    IquicklylookdownewwwIqui cklyfol
    low
    dadsi nceitlooksl i
    keMJi snotinhere.We
    walktohi sr oom andfinditdar
    kwhi chjust
    sendsshi versal l
    overmybody ,
    dadf li
    pthe
    l
    ightonwear egreetedbyMJsi tt
    ingont he
    fl
    ooratt hecor neroftheroom hugginghis
    l
    egswhi l
    er ockingbackandf or
    thandhe
    nowseemsnor malIquickl
    ygotohim and
    kneeldowni nfrontofhim.
    Me:
    *touchi
    nghi
    sknees*MJ
    Herai
    seshi
    shead,hi
    seyesar
    estil
    lredbut
    notf
    il
    ledwi
    thangerany
    moretheylookl
    ike
    hehasbeencr
    ying.
    Me:
    arey
    ouok?
    Heshakeshi
    sheadNo
    Me:
    tal
    ktome,
    I
    'm her
    efory
    ou
    Dadgr
    absachai
    randsi
    tnextt
    ous.
    MJ:
    *cr
    ankyv
    oice*
    Ical
    l
    edherahoe
    Me:
    shewaspr
    obabl
    yone
    Him:*
    tearsst
    reami
    ngdown*
    I'
    mtal
    ki
    ng
    aboutLenhl
    e
    Me:
    Owwahher
    r
    MJ:
    butIdi
    dn'
    tmeani
    tIwasnotmy
    sel
    f
    Me:y
    oushoul
    dtal
    ktoher
    ,expl
    ainev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    andapol
    ogi
    se
    Hi
    m:Icall
    edherahoe*heconti
    nuesrocki
    ng
    hi
    mselfbackandfort
    h*Iusedthesame
    i
    nsul
    ti
    ngwor dashim
    Me:
    MJy
    ouwer
    enoty
    our
    sel
    f
    MJ:
    may
    beI
    '
    m nodi
    ff
    erentf
    rom hi
    m
    Me:don'
    tyoudar
    ecompar
    eyour
    sel
    ftot
    hat
    dev
    il
    Hi
    m:Ical
    l
    edherahoe
    Ifeeltearsbuil
    dingupthissightofmy
    brotherismakingmeemot ionalheseems
    sobr okenandl ost
    ,Il
    ookatdadwi t
    htear
    s
    nowf all
    ing,angeriswri
    tt
    enal loverdad'
    s
    face
    Me:
    daddosomet
    hing
    Hej ustburi
    eshisheadonhishandswhile
    MJcont inuessayi
    ng"Ical
    l
    edherahoe" wit
    h
    tearsstreamingdownhisface,
    i
    tisreal
    l
    y
    painfult
    oseesomeonewhohar dl
    ysheda
    tearcryi
    nglikethi
    s
    Me:
    *tear
    sst
    il
    lst
    reami
    ngdown*
    MJbr
    o
    pl
    ease
    Dad:
    whoi
    sLenhl
    e?
    Me:
    MJ'
    ssoul
    mat
    e
    MJj
    ustshookhi
    sheadr
    epeat
    edl
    y
    Dad:
    Ist
    illneedtoknowev er
    ythi
    ngbutfor
    nowlet
    'sfocusony ourbr
    otheruhm coul
    d
    youcal
    lthisLenhl
    eandaskhert ocome
    over
    .
    Me:*wipingmyt ear
    sthenlookatmy
    wri
    stwat ch*i
    t'
    salmost21h00shel i
    veswi
    th
    herbrother,
    hewon'tagreeforhert
    ocome
    Dad:
    *si
    ghs*cal
    lherandputt
    hephoneon
    l
    oadspeaker
    Maybethatwoul
    dwor
    k,Ir
    eachf
    ormy
    phone
    Me:
    ahhhnxx
    Dad:
    what
    ?
    Me:Iki
    ndofdroppedmyphonewhenIran
    outbutIdon'
    tthi
    nktoomuchdamage
    happenedtoi
    tletmegofetchi
    t.
    Irushtothest udyandpi ckupmyphone
    wellthescr eencrackedbuti t'
    sstil
    lon,
    Igo
    backt oMJ' sroom lookingf orMbali
    's
    numberIf inditthendi alitandputthecal
    l
    onloudspeaker ...
    afteraf ewringsshe
    answer s/
    /
    Si
    pho:
    Mbal
    enhl
    e'
    sphonehel
    l
    o
    Me:
    hiSi
    phomayIspeakt
    oyoursi
    ster
    ?
    Hi
    m:uhhmysisterwasinv
    olvedi
    nal
    i
    ttl
    e
    i
    nci
    dentshe'
    satthehospi
    tal
    MJ'seyesshootoutasi
    fher
    emember
    s
    somethi
    ng.
    Me:
    sor
    rybr
    ahwi
    l
    lshebeok?
    Hi
    m:*
    sighi
    ng*she'
    sincomaman
    MJl
    etsgoofhi
    slegs
    Me:
    *shocked*Ihopeshe'
    l
    lgetbet
    ter
    Hi
    m:t
    hanksdude,
    Ihav
    etogo
    Me:
    ory
    tshar
    p//
    IwonderwhathappenedtoherandIr
    eal
    ly
    hopeshegetsbett
    ercausei
    fshedoesn'
    t
    thenalotofpeopl
    ewil
    lbebroken.
    MJ:
    whati
    nci
    denti
    sthat
    ??
    Il
    ookathi
    m,he'
    scomi
    ngbackt
    ous
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknow
    Hi
    m:*
    wipi
    nghi
    stear
    s*Ihav
    etoseeher
    Me:
    we'
    l
    lgoseehert
    omor
    row
    Henodsandst
    andsupt
    henl
    ooksatdad
    Hi
    m:Dad
    Dad:
    Mel
    okuhl
    e
    Hi
    m:t
    hanksf
    orcomi
    ng
    Dadf
    akesasmi
    l
    ethennods
    MJ:
    don'
    tbel
    i
    ket
    hat
    Dad:
    Ifeel
    li
    keI
    '
    vef
    ail
    edy
    ouguy
    s*l
    ooki
    ng
    down*
    Me:
    comeondad
    Dad:*
    sighi
    ng*
    youseem t
    obegett
    ingbet
    ter
    Ishoul
    dgobacktomywi f
    e*hest
    andsup
    andwalkout*
    Westandi
    ncompl
    etesi
    ncef
    orabouta
    whol
    eminute
    MJ:sooouhmm Idi
    dn'
    tknowyoucoul
    drun
    sof
    astplusy
    ouscream l
    i
    keagir
    l
    Me:pshy
    oudonotknowwhaty ouar
    e
    t
    alki
    ngabout
    *looki
    ngar
    ound*
    MJ:*
    chuckl
    i
    ng*doy outhi
    nkLenhlewill
    makeit
    ?Actual
    lydon'
    tanswerthatcause
    shehastowakeupsoIcouldapologize
    Me:l
    et'shopeshewakesupandcouldy ou
    gotakeabat hyoudon'
    tsmell
    sowel land
    soyoucouldwearsomet hi
    ngyourhuge
    bel
    l
    yi sn'
    tatt
    ract
    ive
    MJ:*chuckli
    ng*i
    tisobvi
    ousthatyoudonot
    knowa6packany waycoul
    dy oucal
    lthe
    boystocomecl eanupandmakesur eit
    's
    thel
    oy alones
    Me:
    sur
    eI'
    vegoti
    t
    Hewal
    kst
    owar
    dst
    hebat
    hroom
    Me:
    YEAH!
    !shaket
    hatf
    latass
    MJ:GETTHEHELLOUTOFFMYROOM
    KHAYA!
    !
    Yeahi
    tisni
    cet
    ohav
    ehi
    m back.
    .

    Monday

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Ncami hasfinallymanagedt omi xt heright


    herbsev ent houghi ttookherthewhol e
    weekend, Ist i
    llhaven'theardfrom t he
    parentsandI '
    m startingtogetwor ri
    edaf t
    er
    thi
    si sdoneI 'm driv
    ingdownhomedespi t
    e
    what everncami says, Tashahasbeenv ery
    support i
    veshe' sbeengoi ngi
    nandoutof
    thehospi t
    al youcoul dseet hatsher eal
    ly
    caresaboutMbal ii
    ncl udi
    ngKhay aandhi s
    brotherwhoIt hinkisdat ingmysi ster
    j
    udgi ngbyt hel ookhehasbeengi vingher
    whenhecomest ovisitherwhichmakes
    mesuperconf usedcauset her
    e'st his
    Wandi l
    eguywhohasbeenbl owingupher
    phonewi
    thsweetmessages.
    ..
    ..
    Ncami
    :
    soni
    t'
    sti
    me
    Shehandsmet hemixtur eanditsmell
    s
    terr
    ibl
    ebutkerheregoesnot hi
    ngIgulpit
    downt henlaydownont hematf aci
    ngup
    feeli
    ngdrowsy,
    ncami startscal
    li
    ngour
    clans
    Her
    :"Mt
    hembu"
    "
    Mvel
    ase"
    "
    Qhudeni
    "
    "
    Zal
    akwand"
    "Wen'
    ..
    ...
    ..
    IzoneoutasIf ocusont hi
    s
    beauti
    fulvi
    ewi nfrontofmeev eryt
    hingis
    sobri
    ghtandt hegr assissogr een,t
    here'
    s
    alsoalotofwhiteairwalkingar oundI'
    m
    notsureifI
    'm all
    owedt ocallthem ghosts
    ohhncami saidtheyarespi r
    it
    s, Iwalk
    ar
    oundl
    ooki
    ngforMbal
    iIfi
    ndherseat
    ed
    wi
    thsomeol
    dlady(
    spi
    ri
    t)
    Me:
    Mbal
    i
    Shet
    urnsandsmi
    l
    esatme
    Her:
    *si
    tt
    ingupandcomi
    ngt
    ome*
    youar
    e
    al
    sohere?
    Me:
    Mbal
    iyouhav
    etogoback
    Her:
    no,i
    tissopeaceful
    here,
    noonecoul
    d
    everhur
    tmeher eI'
    m stay
    ing
    What
    ???
    ?
    Me:
    youcan'
    tst
    ayher
    e
    Her
    :whynot
    ?
    Me:whataboutmom
    ,dad,
    Tasha,
    Wandil
    e,
    khay
    aandhi
    sbr
    other
    MJ?
    Her
    :whycountMJ?
    ?
    Me:i
    sn'theyourboy
    fri
    end?Causeheseems
    l
    ikealostpuppywit
    houtyou
    Her
    :whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Me:Idonothavemucht i
    meher e,
    ify
    oudo
    notwanttocomebackf orthepeopl
    eI'
    ve
    j
    ustcountedatleastcomebackf orme
    pl
    easeIstil
    lneedy ouI'
    m notreadyt
    oli
    ve
    wit
    houtyou.
    Sher
    emainsqui
    etandIcanf
    eel
    thatI
    '
    m
    comi
    ngback
    Me:pl
    easeMbalenhl
    eIbegyouwi
    thev
    ery
    fi
    breever
    yboneeveryt
    hingi
    nmewesti
    ll
    needyou
    Thebr
    ight
    nessst
    art
    sget
    ti
    ngdar
    k
    Me:i
    fyoudon'
    tcomebackI
    '
    llki
    l
    lmy
    sel
    fI
    swear
    Herey
    esshoot
    soutt
    hensuddenl
    y
    ever
    ythi
    ngdisappear
    s,Iopenmyey
    es
    gaspi
    ngforair
    .
    Ncami
    :
    didy
    ouf
    indher
    ?
    Inod
    Her
    :di
    dyout
    ell
    hert
    ocomeback?
    Me:*si
    tti
    ngup*Ididbutitl
    ooksli
    keshe
    l
    ikesstayi
    ngthereItr
    iedconvi
    ncinghert
    o
    comeback
    Her:
    What??Thetrappedspiri
    tsmustbethe
    onesmanipul
    ati
    nghertost ayandthi
    s
    meanstheA.Sguidenshaven'tseenhert
    he
    tr
    appedspir
    it
    smustbekeepi ngheraway
    fr
    om bei
    ngseenbyt heguidens.
    Ilookatherwit
    hnot
    hingbutconf
    usi
    oni
    t'
    s
    l
    ikeshe'stal
    ki
    nginr
    iddl
    es
    Her:
    onl
    y3day sl
    eftf
    orhert
    ocomebacki
    f
    shedoesn'
    tshe'
    l
    lbe.
    .
    Me:
    *feel
    i
    ngdef
    eat
    ed*t
    rappedt
    her
    efor
    ever
    Her:
    yeah,
    let
    'sgi
    veher1dayandseeifshe
    comesback,shehast
    ocomebackorel se
    yourpar
    entswil
    lgocrazypl
    usMJ'sbodyis
    heal
    ing.
    Myphonei ndi
    catesamessage
    not
    if
    icat
    ion..
    .i
    t'
    sChri
    s.
    I
    treadsl
    i
    ket
    his:
    -

    "Thisladywassohar dtofi
    ndtjoandshe
    wasaboutt ol
    eavethecountr
    ywithout
    beingnot i
    cedbutcomeonwear etal
    ki
    ng
    aboutmeher esoIalr
    eadyhaveheratthe
    war ehouse"
    Ichuckl
    ethenr
    epl
    y"t
    ooky
    oul
    ongenough"
    Hi
    m-"
    HaHat hat
    'snotimport
    antt
    he
    i
    mpor
    tantt
    hingi
    st hatIf
    oundher
    "
    Mbalibett
    ercomesback,shebet
    tercomes
    back,
    atthemeantimeIhavesomeoneto
    rel
    easemyf r
    ustr
    ati
    onsat.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t31~

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °


    Tuesday

    TodayI'
    m deali
    ngwi t
    hthislady,
    I'
    mjust
    goi
    ngt otor
    tureherti
    llMbalideci
    desto
    comebackt hanI'
    llki
    l
    lher.WhenIstarted
    bei
    ngagangst erImadeav owtomy selft
    o
    neverki
    ll
    af emalebutthere'
    snowayIcan
    j
    ustl
    ett
    hismookgono.
    Ncami
    :
    wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng?
    Me:
    uhhI
    '
    m meet
    ingupwi
    tht
    heguy
    s
    Her:
    whydidIbot
    herev enaski
    ngcauseI
    knowwhereyouareheadedany wayMJ'
    s
    bodyhasheal
    edful
    lyifhisspi
    ri
    tdoes
    comesbackhewillbelimpi
    ngfor1or2
    weeks.
    Me:meaningMbal
    ii
    salsoful
    lyok?
    *It
    otal
    l
    y
    i
    gnorethepar
    tofherknowi
    ngwhereI'
    m
    goi
    ng*
    Her:
    she'
    l
    lbel
    i
    mpi
    ngbecauseofherl
    egof
    cour
    se.
    Me:shebettercometobackus,
    *Il
    ookatmy
    wr
    istwatch*IhavetogoI'
    ll
    seeyoulat
    er.
    Iwal
    ktowardsthedoorwi
    thmyphoneand
    mycarkeysbutbefor
    eIcoul
    dwal
    koutmy
    phoner
    ings,
    Iansweri
    t/
    /
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o*openi
    ngt
    hedoor
    *
    Femalev oi
    ce:hi
    mayIspeakt
    o
    Siphosenkosi
    Mt hembu
    Me:
    speaki
    ng
    Her
    :goodmor
    ningMrMt
    hembu
    Me:
    mor
    ningMi
    ss
    Her
    :i
    tactual
    l
    yNur
    seHlongwaneI'
    m cal
    l
    ing
    r
    egardi
    ngMissMbal
    enhl
    eMt hembu
    Istoponmyt
    rackswi
    thmyhear
    tbeat
    ing
    fast
    Me:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Her:
    ahhsi
    ryoursist
    erj
    ustwokeupand
    she'
    saski
    ngforyou
    Myli
    pscur
    vei
    ntoasmi
    l
    easr
    eli
    efwashes
    al
    lov
    ermybody.
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuchI
    '
    llber
    ightt
    her
    e//
    Ihangupwi
    thaful
    lsmil
    eonmyf
    ace,
    Iwal
    k
    backtot
    hel
    oungetoncami
    Her
    :di
    dyouwi
    nal
    ott
    ery
    ?
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Ithi
    nkIdi
    d
    Her
    :buty
    ouhav
    esomuchmoneyal
    ready
    Me:
    *shaki
    ngmyhead*Mbal
    ij
    ustwokeup
    Shest
    andsupwi
    thasmi
    l
    e
    Her
    :ohthat
    'sgr
    eatnews,whi
    chmeansIcan
    gobacktothevi
    ll
    ageyourmotherneeds
    me
    Me:
    needy
    oui
    nwhatway
    ?
    Her:
    shejustneedsme*
    avoi
    dingey
    e
    cont
    act*
    Me:t
    omorr
    owI'm dr
    ivi
    ngdownt
    othev
    il
    lage
    andyouwon'
    tstopme
    Her
    :Iwon'
    tpl
    usI
    '
    mleav
    ingnow
    Me:
    aren'
    tyougoi
    ngt
    oseeMbal
    ifi
    rst
    ?
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    ing*nott
    oday
    Inodandwal kouttomycardr ivi
    ngoffto
    thehospit
    al,
    onmywayt hereIcal
    lChri
    s
    noti
    fyi
    nghimt hatIam nolongercoming
    becausemysi sterj
    ustwokeupandIhav e
    toseeherfir
    stI'
    llpr
    obablydealwithour
    guesttoni
    ght.
    .
    Igett
    othehospit
    alandgostrai
    ghtt
    o
    Mbali
    '
    sroom butsheisnoti
    nhere.
    Nurse:ohSirwehavemovedyoursi
    stert
    oa
    newr oom pleasef
    oll
    owmeI'
    l
    l showyou
    hernewr oom.
    Inodandfol
    l
    owher,
    IgettoMbal
    i
    'sr
    oom I
    walki
    nslowl
    yIseeherst
    andi
    ngbyt
    he
    wi
    ndowlooki
    ngoutsi
    de,Iwal
    ktowar
    dsher
    sl
    owl
    yshelooksdeepinthought
    s
    Me:
    youhav
    efi
    nal
    l
    ydeci
    dedt
    ocomeback
    t
    ous
    Shetur nsstar
    tl
    edbutsmi l
    esassoonasher
    eyeslandst omineshethent hr
    owshersel
    f
    tomeandIhughert ightl
    yohgodIlovethi
    s
    soul,
    Iletgoofheraftersomet i
    meandshe
    l
    impst ot hecouchwithmef oll
    owi
    ngher
    thenwebot hsi
    tdown.
    Me:
    so.
    ..
    Her
    :soo.
    .
    Me:whatexact
    lymadeyoucomeback?
    Wasitforthef
    actt
    hatIsai
    dI'
    l
    lki
    l
    lmy sel
    fif
    youdi
    dn'tcomebackor?
    Her:
    well
    that
    'soneoft
    her
    easonsIcame
    back.
    Me:*
    raisi
    ngmyeyebrow*uh?Sothereare
    ot
    herreasons?Dosharet
    hem dearsi
    ster
    Her :
    thepeopl eIwaswi th" there"conv i
    nced
    met ostaysay ingi ti
    sagr eatpl acewher e
    noonecoul dhurtmei nany wayal sosay ing
    I
    'llalwaysbehappyt her eandspeaki ngthe
    truthIwashappy .Aftery oul eftItol dthe
    l
    adyIwassi tti
    ngwi t
    hthatIwantt ocome
    backbecauset hepeopl ewhol ovemear e
    nott herewi thme, shet hensai dIai n'tgoing
    nowher ecauseI 'mt heirticketf ort hem to
    getoutoft heretur nsoutt heyar et rapped
    therebecauseoft heirbaddeedsIt r
    iedto
    runawaybutt heyal lsurroundedmeand
    MJst i
    llsayingwear enotgoi ngany where
    that'
    swhensomebeaut i
    ful femal eswi t
    h
    beaut i
    fuldrawi ngsont heirbodi esshowed
    upandal lthosewhower esur r
    oundi ngus
    ranawayt hent ..
    .
    Myphonedistur
    bsus,i
    tisamessagef
    rom
    dadi
    treadsli
    kethi
    s:-

    "
    Sonweneedt
    otalk,
    getbackt
    omewhen
    y
    ouseet
    hismessage"

    HegoesAWOLonmeandcomesback
    sendingmemessagesl i
    kethi
    s,
    Itot
    all
    ydo
    notli
    ket hesoundoft
    hismessage.
    ..
    Ijust
    placeitdownandfocusonMbali
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*cont
    inue
    Her:*
    smi l
    ingback*uhht hemostbeauti
    ful
    femaleoft hem allsaidi
    tist
    ooearl
    yforme
    tobet her
    eIhav en'tserv
    edmypurpose
    hereyetwhi chkindaconfusedmesoI
    askedi fI
    '
    lldoanybaddeedsasmy
    purposewhi chwi l
    lleadmebeingback
    thereinfuture,t
    heyal lj
    ustsmil
    edatme
    andoneoft hem sai dIcouldneverdobad
    evenifIwant edtooi tjustnotinmygenes
    aftersay
    ingt hattheyspokei nawei rd
    l
    anguage, myv isi
    ont henstar
    tedbeing
    blurr
    yafterthatev erythi
    ngwentdarkandI
    wokeupher e*smiling*
    Me:*smi
    l
    ingback*wel
    lI'
    m gl
    adt
    haty
    ou'
    re
    backImissedy
    ousomuch
    Her
    :*bl
    ushi
    ng*
    wher
    e'sMJ?
    Me:
    *smi
    rki
    ng*
    whi
    chone?
    Her
    :uh?
    ?Ohandbythewaywhatdidyou
    meanaboutMJbei
    ngalostpuppywi
    thout
    me?
    Me:Imeantexact
    lyt
    hat,Igett
    haty
    outwo
    ar
    edatingbuthebett
    erbehaveshimsel
    fin
    mypresenceandrespectme
    Her
    :what
    ??MJi
    sn.
    ..
    .
    "
    Thebeaut
    if
    ul pr
    incesshasf
    inal
    l
    ywokeup
    f
    rom t
    hedeath"Chrissay
    sashewal
    ksin
    Him:
    event
    houghyoulookl
    ikeamessr
    ight
    now,
    youst
    il
    ll
    ookbeauti
    ful
    Mbal
    i
    :*smi
    l
    ing*
    heyChr
    is
    Hi
    m:ahhcomeonnow,st
    andupandgi
    ve
    meahug*openi
    nghi
    sarms*
    Mbal
    ist
    andsupandhughi
    m af
    tert
    hatt
    he
    3ofuschi
    l
    landcat
    chupwit
    hMbali
    .
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Myenti
    redaywasf i
    l
    ledwi
    thlov
    eand
    l
    aught
    ereventhoughmom anddadweren'
    t
    her
    eI'
    m st
    il
    lhappy,
    Tashashowedupaf
    ter
    SiphoandChr i
    sleftsayingt heyhav e
    somet hingt otakecar eofshel i
    teral
    lycr ied
    whenshef oundmeawakeIt hinkIdi dnot
    onlyfoundabestf ri
    endi nherbutIal so
    foundasi st erI'
    mr eall
    ygr at
    ef ult
    ohav eher
    i
    nmyl if
    eandt urnsoutMJwasi nandout
    visi
    ti
    ngmeIwonderwhyt hough...
    .Any way
    I'
    m allalonenowI '
    vebeent ryingtosl eep
    forthelastt wohour sbutIcan' tIsoowi sh
    MJwasher ebecauseIknowi fhewasher e
    Iwouldbr ushhi sf urti
    llIfal
    l asl
    eep, asI '
    m
    deepinmyt hought shiscolognef ill
    supt he
    wholer oom IdonotknowwhybutIpr etend
    asifI'
    m sl eeping,Ihearhim si t
    ti
    ngont he
    chairnextt ome.
    Him:*sighi
    ng*hey ,
    i
    t'
    smeagai n,
    whoknows
    may bey ouaregetti
    ngti
    redofmebeing
    herebutpl easewakeupsoIcanapologize
    forbeingaj erkt
    owardsyouandIprayand
    hopey oubel i
    evet hatIwasbei ngbewitched
    *pausing*ev entalkingaboutt hi
    smakes
    meangr yIknowIwasunderaspel l
    butI
    shouldhav enev ercal l
    edy ouahoeIdon't
    thi
    nkI '
    l
    leverf or
    giv emy selffor
    that
    *breathingheav y*pleasewakeupand
    alwaysknowt haty ouar etheonlygi
    rlIhave
    everlovedwel lexcludingmymot herof
    course.
    If
    eel
    hisl
    i
    psonmyf
    orehead
    Hi
    m:Il
    ovey
    ou.
    Ihearfoot
    stepswalki
    ngoutIthenopenmy
    eyes.Hewasbewi t
    ched?Helovesme?
    Whobewi t
    chedhim?Hel ovesme?What
    aboutLondi?Helovesme?HowcanIbe
    theonlygi
    rlhehaseverl
    ovedwhenhewas
    sogluedtoLondi?Ohhwaitwait.
    .Hel
    oves
    me? ??
    .
    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Howcandaddot
    histome?Howcanhe?
    Hepr
    omisedmebutnowheisbr
    eaki
    nghi
    s
    pr
    omise.
    Chr
    is:
    dudecomeon
    Me:
    Chr
    isy
    oudon'
    tunder
    stand,
    hepr
    omi
    sed
    Him:noyou'r
    etheonewhodoesn' t
    underst
    and,thi
    sisbeyondhim webot
    h
    knowhedi dn'
    tmakethisdeci
    sionsodonot
    blamehim.
    Ij
    ustl
    ookdowndef
    eat
    ed.
    Hi
    m:nowwhatel
    sedi
    dhesaybesi
    dest
    hat
    ?
    Ir
    aisemyheadasIf
    eel
    myangerr
    isi
    ngup
    Me:
    thatmymot
    heri
    sfi
    ght
    ingf
    orherl
    i
    fe
    Him:thereyougo,burySiphoforawhil
    eyou
    wil
    lthinkaboutyourdadl at
    erri
    ghtnowwe
    needhammeral sot ell
    SJt opart
    ici
    pat
    e.
    Ichuckl
    eandwewal
    kinf
    indi
    nghert
    iedt
    o
    achair.
    Me:
    wher
    ear
    ethet
    woguy
    s?br
    ingt
    hem her
    e.
    Hegoest of
    etcht
    hem whil
    eIsplashwater
    onher,
    sheopensherey
    esgaspingf orai
    r.
    Chri
    scomesbackwiththetwoguy sthey
    l
    ookedbeatenup,
    hethentiet
    hem to
    chai
    rstoo.
    Me:
    wel
    ll
    et'
    sgett
    obusi
    nessguy
    s.
    Tom andZugowal
    kinbr
    eat
    hingheav
    y.
    Zugo:
    don'
    ttel
    lmey
    oust
    art
    edwi
    thoutus?
    Chr
    is:
    nahy
    ou'
    rer
    ightont
    ime
    Tom:
    goodnowpl
    easepr
    oceed.
    Ichuckl
    eandl
    ookatt
    het
    woguy
    s.
    Me:
    yout
    woar
    esucht
    rai
    tor
    showcoul
    dyou?
    Guy
    1:mypri
    ncepl
    easef
    orgi
    veus*
    pleadi
    ng*
    wewerel
    uredbygr
    eed
    Me:gr
    eed?Themoneythaty
    ouear
    ned
    wasn'
    tenoughf
    oryou?
    Guy
    1:i
    twas
    Me:
    THENWHYDOI
    T!?
    ?
    Theybot
    hlookdownnotsay
    ingany
    thi
    ng
    Me:aftermyf at
    hergaveyoustrai
    ght
    i
    nstructi
    onstoletherstar
    vetodeathyou
    t
    wodeci dedtobehergodandsneakher
    waterandf oodwhil
    eplanningonhowt o
    f
    reeher
    Guy2:
    wehav
    elear
    ntourmi st
    akepl
    ease
    hav
    emercyonus*cr
    ying*
    .
    Theguy
    scr
    ackupi
    ntol
    aught
    er
    Zugo:
    dudecan'
    tyouseewear
    eall
    tryi
    ngt
    o
    beser
    iousher
    e,st
    opbei
    ngacomedian
    Me:
    howcanIhav emercyony ouwheny
    our
    mi
    stakepl
    acedmysi st
    erint
    ocomaandlef
    t
    mymotherfi
    ght
    ingforherli
    fe.
    Vuy
    iswa:
    Ihopet
    heybot
    hdi
    e
    Igi
    veheradeat
    hst
    are
    Me:whogavey out
    heauthor
    it
    yt ospeak?
    ?
    I'
    m sti
    l
    lcomingtoyouf
    orshootingmy
    si
    sterandmymom ohhandt rustmeIwon't
    beniceasdad.
    Tom:hadehammerIknowthatshe'
    soldbut
    canIchowherbef
    oreyousendhertoher
    maker?
    ZugoandChr
    isl
    aughsathi
    m
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*you'
    regonnadi
    eyoung
    Tom marnhowmanyt i
    meshaveItol
    dyou
    togetagi
    rl
    fr
    iend?
    Tom:
    gir
    lf
    ri
    endsar
    etoomuchwor
    know
    hammercanI?
    ?
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t32~

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Me:sur
    eTom ifyouwanthershe'
    sall
    y our
    s
    butdoyourshenani
    gansi
    ntheotherroom
    pl
    ease
    Zugo:
    what
    ?why
    ?
    Me:
    whatdoy
    oumeanbywhy
    ?
    Zugo:
    wewantt
    owat
    chl
    i
    vepor
    nbr
    ah
    Chr
    is:
    speakf
    ory
    our
    sel
    ftu
    Me:*
    chuckl
    i
    ng*
    ify
    ouwantt
    owat
    chgowi
    th
    hi
    mt hen
    Zugo:
    butIal
    sowantt
    ost
    ayandwat
    chy
    ou
    i
    nacti
    on*pout
    ing*
    Chr
    is:
    siesy
    ou'
    reev
    enpout
    ing
    Zugo:
    l
    eav
    emeal
    oneChr
    ist
    opher
    Chr
    is:
    Aibo
    Welaughedatt
    hewayhesaidt
    hatand
    Tom wentt
    owardsVuy
    iswa.
    Tom:don'
    twor
    rywenamahy
    ou'
    l
    lenj
    oyy
    our
    l
    astsessi
    onok.
    Het
    akeshert
    oanot
    herr
    oom whi
    leIgr
    ab
    myhammerandwal
    ktowar
    dstheguar
    ds.

    ∆2Day
    slat
    er∆
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Homeatl astImi ssedbeingher epr obably


    becauseIhat ehospi tal
    s,I
    '
    mf inall
    ywi thMJ
    withhisf uryselfSiphoont heot hersi deey
    Idon'tknowbutIf eelli
    kehe' sbeen
    avoidi
    ngmef orsomer easonbuthedi dsay
    hehast ot ellmesomet hingt oday .Wandi
    thoughtIwasi gnor i
    nghim butcl earedup
    everythingwi t
    hhi m he'sevent akingmeout
    tomor rowandi wi l
    lbestartingatwor kon
    Mondaynextweek, thenther e'
    sMJ
    everythinghesai dki ndaconf usedmet hat'
    s
    whyI '
    m goi ngtogi vehim achancet ol et
    him expl ain,Itr
    iedt ocallhim butmy
    numberi sst i
    llblockeduhhl etmet ry
    khaya...i
    tr i
    ngsf orawhi l
    eandheendsup
    answer
    ingi
    t/
    /
    Hi
    m:Heyboo
    Me:
    Hey
    Him:
    Icametocheckyouatthehospi
    tal
    onl
    ytofi
    ndoutyou'
    veal
    readybeen
    di
    schar
    ge
    Me:y
    eahwellwhenIwokeupIwasal
    ready
    f
    inesother
    ewasnoneedtobekeptt
    here
    Him:I
    'l
    lcomecheckupony
    ouaf
    terI
    '
    ve
    knockedoff
    Me:*smil
    ing*okay.
    ...
    ohhIwanttot al
    kto
    yourbrot
    heraboutsomet hinghesaidtome
    backatthehospi t
    albutIcan'
    treachhim
    causehebl ockedme
    Hi
    m:ohhhepr
    obabl
    yfor
    gott
    hatheeven
    bl
    ockedy
    ou,
    I'
    l
    lcal
    lhi
    m andr
    emindhi
    m
    Me:okt
    hank,
    andify
    oudon'tmindme
    aski
    ngwhatreal
    l
    yhappened?
    Him:y
    ou'
    ll
    getal
    ltheanswersf
    rom him,
    I
    haveameeti
    ngtogettooin5minutesl
    et
    mecallMJ
    Me:
    thanks,
    bye
    Hi
    m:shar
    p//
    TjoI'm soboredandsol onelyIcan' teven
    callTashacauseIknowshe' sbusyatt he
    momenti fIweretocr eateaTVshowr i
    ght
    nowI 'l
    lcall
    it"
    li
    vingabor inglife"itwoul d
    havebeenwaybet terifMJspokecausewe
    woul dbegossipingrightnow, Isighl ooki
    ng
    aroundnahsi tt
    ingquietwheny oudon' t
    wantt oisbori
    ngImeany eahsomet i
    mes
    wel i
    kepeaceandqui etnesstor elaxbut
    ri
    ghtnowIwantt heopposi teoft hat.
    I.
    ..
    my
    phoner ingsohthatwasf ast
    //
    Me:
    uhhhi
    Hi
    m:hey
    Me:uhm errsoonyourlastvi
    sitatthe
    hospit
    alyousai
    dal ott
    hingsthatleftme
    confusedIwaskindofhopingf oran
    expl
    anation
    Hi
    m:ohy
    ouhear
    dme?
    Me:wasn'
    tIsupposet
    o?I
    fsot
    hanf
    orget
    aboutt
    hiscal
    l//
    Idropthecal ll
    etti
    nggooft hebr eat
    hIwas
    holdi
    ng,whywasIev enholdingitafterthe
    wayhet reatedme, afterhavingsexi nfront
    ofmeandnev ercaredev enaf t
    erhesaw
    thatIwasi ntheof fi
    ce..
    .whydoIst i
    l
    l have
    thesestupidfeeli
    ngf orhim?Ipl acemy
    headont hecushi onandscr eam in
    frust
    rat
    ion.MJcal lsagainIjustlookatmy
    phoneanddonotansweri tatal
    l,hecall
    s
    againandagainandagain,
    Ifeel
    likesucha
    foolifhewantedt
    oexplainhewasgoi ngto
    unblockmeandcallmebutI '
    mt heonewho
    madehi m unbl
    ockmeohgodIf eelso
    cheap.
    Me:
    buddyl
    et'
    sgot
    akeanap
    Isaythatstandingupandwal kingtomy
    room wit
    hMJ, webot hlayont hebedwi t
    h
    MJnotgi vingup,letmej ustputitonsil
    ent
    asI'
    m doingt hati
    tringsagainonl yt
    his
    ti
    meitain'tMJi t'
    sSmay ourememberher ?
    Thecousinwhoi sinter
    estedinkhay a/
    /
    Me:
    heyCuz
    Her:
    heyhowar
    eyou?Ihear
    dwhat
    happened
    Me:
    I'
    mfi
    nej
    ustl
    i
    mpi
    ngabi
    tbutI
    '
    m
    compl
    etel
    yfi
    ne
    Her:
    cooluhm IwashopingIcoul
    dvisi
    t
    you,
    youknowj ustt
    orunawayfrom mom
    f
    oraf ewdays
    Me:
    whatdi
    dyoudo?
    Her:
    *gi
    ggl
    ing*noIdi
    dn'
    tdoanythi
    ngnotas
    i
    nrunawayr unawayIj
    ustneedali
    tt
    le
    br
    eakfrom her
    Me:*gi
    ggl
    ing*owIt houghtyoudid
    somethi
    ng,Idon'thaveaprobl
    em wit
    hyou
    vi
    sit
    ingbutI'
    m gonnaneedt otal
    ktomy
    brot
    herfi
    rstit
    'shishouseanyway
    Her
    :okI
    '
    llwai
    tfory
    ourcal
    l
    Me:
    okl
    ove
    Her
    :by
    e//
    Ihangupandt
    ryt
    otakeanapbuti
    t'
    s
    usef
    ulcauseIcan'
    t.
    ..Af
    terabout2hours
    MJsendsmeamessagei treadsl
    ikethi
    s:-

    "
    I'
    m out
    side,
    comeout
    "

    Excuseme? !Wherearehismanners?He
    won'tevensayplease,
    Iguesshe'
    sstil
    lrude
    andarrogantbutwhenhespokeatt he
    hospit
    alhesoundedsosi ncer
    e.
    Me:shoul
    dIgot ohi
    m buddy
    ?ImeanIwant
    t
    obuthedi dn'
    taskmeproperl
    yiti
    smor
    e
    l
    ikeademand
    MJj
    ustl
    ooksatme
    Me:
    may
    beIshoul
    dgo
    Istandupandgooutt
    ohim Ifi
    ndhim
    standi
    ngoutsi
    dehi
    scarl
    ookingathi
    s
    phoneItakethi
    smomentt ojustlookat
    hi
    m actuall
    yathisbodyst ructurewhichis
    soperfect
    ,thesuitfi
    tshim perfectlywith
    hi
    smuscl esandhi slowerbodyuhm how
    doIexplai
    niterohhy eahrememberZac
    Efr
    onwhopl ayedTr oyBoltononHi gh
    SchoolMusicalyeahhehast hesamel ower
    body.
    ..
    anywayIcl earmyt hroattogthis
    att
    enti
    onher ai
    seshi sheadandl ookatme
    wit
    hwhatl ooksli
    keasmi l
    e
    Hi
    m:uhhhi
    *hesoundsner
    vous*
    Me:
    hi*
    Isaywi
    thast
    rai
    ghtf
    aceon*
    Hi
    m:coul
    dwet
    alki
    nsi
    det
    hecar
    ?
    Me:
    sur
    e
    Heopenst
    hebackseatf
    orme,thengoes
    ar
    oundandal
    sogetsinthebackseat
    .
    Hi
    m:*
    brushi
    nghi
    shead*wher
    edoIst
    art
    Howaboutstarti
    ngonwhyy ou'
    reher
    e?I
    don'
    ttel
    lhi
    mt hatobv
    iousl
    y
    Him:*facingme*Iwouldfi
    rst
    lyli
    keto
    apologizeforbei
    ngajerktowards
    you,t
    alkinginabadmannerwi thyou,
    fory
    ou
    walkinginonmehav ingsexandmost lyf
    or
    cal
    li
    ngy ouahoe*hesaysthelastpar
    t
    l
    ookingdown*
    Me:whyar ey
    ouapologizi
    ngnow?Andwhy
    doallthoset
    hingscauseI'
    m pr
    ett
    ysur
    eI
    di
    dn'tdoanythi
    ngwrongtoy ou
    Him: *
    sighs*y oudidn'
    tdoany t
    hing
    wrong,thet hingisLondi gav
    emeal ove
    porti
    onIknewshewant edmebutIdi dn'
    t
    thi
    nkshewasgoi ngtotakethingssofar
    afterIrej
    ect edher ,
    whatI'mtry
    ingtosayis
    thateverythingIdi dandsayIdi dn'
    tmeanit
    Iwasunderaspel l
    .
    What?Nowi tall
    makesensewhyMJ
    suddenl
    ychangedthatdaywaitdoest
    his
    meanher eall
    ymeantitbackatt
    hehospi
    tal
    whenhesai dhelov
    esme?
    Hi
    m:pl
    easef
    orgi
    veme
    Me:i
    twasn'
    tact
    uall
    yyourfault
    ,youdidn'
    t
    knowshewasgoingtogiv
    ey oual ov
    e
    port
    ionsoi
    t'
    scoolIf
    orgi
    vey ou
    Hi
    m:t
    hanky
    ou*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    howdidyouf
    indoutaboutwhatshe
    wasdoi
    ng?
    Him:wel
    lIdidn'
    t,
    khayadidandI'
    mr eal
    l
    y
    gr
    atefult
    ohim causewhoknowsi fhe
    di
    dn'tImightst
    il
    lbeunderaspel
    landstil
    l
    bewithher
    Me:whatdi
    dshesaywheny
    ouconf
    ront
    ed
    her
    ?
    Hi
    m: Idi
    dn'
    texact
    lyconf
    ronther
    ,cometo
    t
    hinkofitIdi
    dn'
    tsayasingl
    ewor dtoher
    Me:youmeantotel
    lmethatshest
    il
    lthi
    nks
    you'
    reinl
    ovewit
    hher?
    Him:no,
    it
    'sal
    ongst
    orybutshe'
    l
    lnev
    erev
    er
    bothermeagai
    n
    Wonderwhathemeansbyt
    hatbutIj
    ust
    nod.
    Him:nowt hatwe'
    vecl
    earedthi
    ngs
    up*clear
    inghist
    hroat
    *doesitmean
    we...
    *someoneknocksont hewindow
    star
    tli
    ngme*
    Owi
    t'
    sKhay
    a,heopenst
    hedooronmysi
    de.
    Khaya:
    wuuhI '
    mlovi
    ngt
    hisv
    iew
    shame,
    freezeforamoment
    Hetakesouthi
    sphoneandt
    akeapi
    ctur
    e
    ofmeandMJ.
    MJ:
    dudey
    ouhav
    ebadt
    imi
    ng
    Khaya:
    Idi
    dn'tknowy ouwerealsogonna
    comehere*MJgi veshim adeadst
    are*,
    you
    knowwhatIwi l
    lseey outomorr
    owMbal i
    .
    Hewal
    ksaway
    .
    Me:wel
    lSi
    phowill
    bebackanyt
    imesoon
    nowIshoul
    dgobackinsi
    de,
    I'
    l
    lseeyouon
    MondayIguess
    Hi
    m:howaboutt
    omor
    row?
    Me:
    Ihav
    epl
    anst
    omor
    row
    Hi
    m:ow*
    soundi
    ngdi
    sappoi
    nted*
    Me:uhm butIcanseey
    oul
    ateraf
    termy
    hangout
    Hi
    m:*
    smil
    i
    ng*okIguessI
    '
    llseey
    ou
    t
    omorr
    owaft
    ernoon.
    Iwal
    kbacki
    nsi
    deaf
    tersay
    inggoodby
    eof
    cour
    se,Si
    phocomesback5minut
    esaft
    er
    I'
    vej
    ustwalkedbacki
    nyoht
    hatwascl
    ose
    Hi
    m:canwet
    alk*
    sit
    ti
    ngnextt
    ome*
    Me:
    youdi
    dsaywe'
    l
    ltal
    ktoni
    ghtsosur
    e
    Him:uhm Idon'
    tknowhowtosaythi
    s
    *br
    ushinghishai
    rinfr
    ust
    rat
    ion*
    Me:
    j
    ustsayi
    tasi
    tis
    Hi
    m: uhm MondayI
    '
    mleav
    ingf
    ormy
    i
    nit
    iati
    on
    Me:ohit
    'st
    imealr
    eady?Butyoust
    il
    lgonna
    vi
    sitev
    eryweekaspromisedri
    ght
    ?
    Her
    emai
    nssi
    l
    ent
    Me:
    Sipho!
    ?
    Hi
    m:uht
    hingschanged
    Me:whatdoyoumeanbythat
    ?Causeyou
    can'
    tgoforanent
    ir
    e5yearsandnotv
    isi
    t
    Heremainssi
    l
    entagai
    n,
    hehasgott
    obe
    ki
    ddingme
    Me:
    okokIguessI
    'l
    lbetheonef
    lyi
    ngdown
    t
    oCapeTownt ov
    isi
    tthen
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m nol
    ongergoi
    ngt
    oCapeTown
    Me:
    wher
    ethen?
    Hi
    m:Engl
    and
    Ist
    andupqui
    ckl
    y
    Me:
    WHAT!
    !?
    hi
    m:andy
    oucan'
    tvi
    sitnei
    thercanI
    Me:youar
    ejoki
    ngright
    ?You'
    repr
    ankingme
    r
    ightnowaren'
    tyou?*t
    ear
    sar
    ethreat
    ening
    t
    ocomeoutnow*
    Him*
    shakinghishead*andno
    communicati
    onwillbeall
    owed
    Myt
    ear
    sjustf
    lowdownmycheeks,
    hecan'
    t
    dot
    hist
    omehej
    ustcan'
    t
    Me:
    youpromi
    sed*
    thatcomesoutasa
    whi
    sper
    *
    Him:Mbal enhleIdidn'tchoset hi
    s,Ididn'
    t
    choset obet hehei rtothethrone,Idi
    dn't
    asktheHeadst ochangemyi nit
    iati
    on
    l
    ocat i
    on,t
    hisisal sonoteasyf orme
    becauseIj ustgoty oubackbutNowIhav e
    toleaveyou* tearsalsofall
    from hi seyes*
    Whydoeshisi
    nit
    iat
    ionhav
    etotakeplacei
    n
    Engl
    andandwhycan'twecommunicate
    wit
    hhim?For5goddamny ear
    s
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t33~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Sipho:ev erypastKingofourKi ngdom went


    toEngl andf orthei
    rinit
    iati
    onbutwhenIwas
    15Ipl eadeddadt onotgot oEngl andf or
    myi ni
    t i
    at i
    onandhemanagedt opullsome
    stri
    ngswi ththeHeadsuhm t heysaidI
    coulddomyi nit
    iat
    ioninCapeTownand
    keepincont actwithyouguy sbutaf ew
    daysagodadr eceivedacal l
    say i
    ngmy
    i
    niti
    ationi nCapeTownwascancel editnow
    hadt ot akeplaceinEngl and,andt hi
    stime
    dadcannotdoany thi
    ngabouti t.
    Mytear
    sconti
    nuest
    opl
    ayt
    hei
    rrol
    eand
    Si
    phoembracesme.
    Hi
    m:Iknowi
    t'
    shar
    dbutpl
    easeunder
    stand
    Me:
    thi
    smeansweonl
    yhav
    e2day
    slef
    t
    ,howdowemakememor i
    esi
    njust2day
    s
    thatwil
    ll
    astus5yearsandVuyi
    swaisst
    il
    l
    outther
    ewhatifshecomesaft
    ermeagain?
    Him:donotwor
    ryaboutherplusI'
    vealr
    eady
    spokewit
    hmyf r
    iendstheywil
    ltakecareof
    youandmakesur enodangercomesy our
    way
    Me:
    *movingoffhi
    schestwi
    pingmyt
    ear
    s*
    f
    ri
    ends?Ionl
    yknowChr i
    s
    Him:t
    her
    eare2ot heronesyouhaven'
    tmet,
    Chri
    swil
    lint
    roduceyoutothem don'
    twor
    ry
    Inod,
    5y earsi
    sapr et
    tylongti
    mebut
    ther
    e'snothi
    ngIcanreallydoexcept
    support
    inghim andenjoyingt
    heselast2
    dayswithhim
    Me:
    sowhenar
    ewegoi
    nghome?Nowor
    mor
    ning?
    Hi
    m:t
    odowhat
    ?
    Me:
    tospendtheselast2daysasa
    f
    amil
    y,
    somom anddadcanexpl ai
    ntome
    whyt
    heyhaven'tbeenansweri
    ngmycall
    s
    Him:y eahaboutt hatuhm,whenIcalledy ou
    thi
    smor ningsay i
    ngIhav esomethi
    ngt ot el
    l
    yout onightIwasar ri
    vi
    ngatt hepal
    acet hat
    ti
    met osaymygoodby es,
    anddadhasbeen
    avoidingy ourcall
    scausehedi dn'
    tknow
    howt ot ellyouthatuhm whenv uyi
    swa
    escapedsheshotmom andl ef
    therfighting
    forherl i
    febutshe'sslowlygetti
    ngbet t
    er
    now.
    Me:
    *shocked*mom al
    sogotshot
    ??
    Hi
    m:she'sget
    ti
    ngbet
    ternow,
    youdi
    dher
    t
    hatpartri
    ght
    Me:
    dadshoul
    dhav
    etol
    dme
    Him:y
    ouwer eatthehospi talMbaliand
    wheny ouwokeuphedi dn'twanttostress
    you.
    ..
    anywayI '
    l
    lbespendi ngtheselast2
    dayswithyou,j
    ustmeandy oust
    arti
    ngr i
    ght
    nowletmej ustorderussomet hingtoeat.
    InodashefocusesonhisphoneIalsot
    ake
    outminet
    ocancel al
    lmyplans,
    Ial
    sotel
    l
    Smatocomev isi
    tonTuesday.
    .
    °
    MJ°

    Khay
    a:what
    'supman
    Me:Ij
    ustgotacal
    lfr
    om Lenhl
    eshesays
    shecan'
    tseemefortheretoft
    heweekend
    Hi
    m:oucht
    hatmustbur
    n,i
    tmustbur
    nbad
    Me:
    act
    ual
    l
    yitdoesn'
    tcauseshegav
    emea
    v
    ali
    dreason
    Hi
    m:whi
    chi
    s?
    Me:herbr
    otheri
    sleav
    ingonMondayf
    orhi
    s
    i
    nit
    iati
    on
    Hi
    m:ohhI
    '
    vehear
    doft
    hatshi
    t
    Me:y
    eahhe'
    ll
    begonef
    or5year
    sandt
    her
    e
    won'
    tbeanycommuni
    cat
    ion
    Hi
    m:*
    shocked*
    thef
    uck?
    ?
    Me:y
    eahadIcoul
    dhearhervoi
    cebreaki
    ngI
    knowhowreal
    l
    yfondsheisofherbrot
    her
    Him:
    I'
    m sogladI
    'm notr
    oyalt
    yjusti
    magi
    ne
    goi
    ngawayfor5y ear
    swithout
    communicat
    ingwithmyfamily
    Me:whatar
    ey outal
    ki
    ngaboutcauseI
    '
    mt he
    ol
    dersonhere,I
    '
    dbet heonegoi
    ngaway
    Hi
    m:wuuhwewoul
    dhav
    efoughtf
    ort
    he
    t
    hronedearbr
    other
    NxxIj
    ustshakemyheadsmi
    l
    ing
    Me:ohI'
    vebeenmeaningt
    oask,
    doy
    ou
    t
    hinkLenhl
    ehasmov edon?
    Him:
    I'
    l
    lbel
    y i
    ngi
    fIsai
    dNoorYescauseI
    al
    sodonotknowbutwhatIknowi
    sthat
    shel
    ovesyou
    Me*
    smi
    l
    ingl
    i
    keachi
    mpanzee*y
    out
    hink?
    Him:yeah,
    whenshetol
    dmewhathappened
    betweenyoutwosheli
    ter
    all
    ycri
    edandthe
    l
    ov eshehasf
    oryouwasv i
    sibl
    eall
    overer
    face
    Thesmi l
    eIhadturnsi
    ntoafr
    own,
    Ihat
    e
    thatshecri
    edbecauseofme.
    Me:well
    ifshehasaboyfr
    iendIdon'
    treal
    l
    y
    car
    ecauseshe'smineshewasalwaysmi ne
    andalwayswil
    lbe
    Khay
    a:ai
    youhav
    edr
    amashame
    Il
    ookathi
    m
    Me:t
    ell
    methi
    sbro,whenwi
    l
    lyouget
    your
    sel
    fagi
    rl
    fr
    iend?
    Hi
    m:t
    hedayy
    ougetmar
    ri
    ed
    Me:byt
    heendofnexty
    earI
    '
    llbemar
    ri
    ed*
    I
    sai
    dthatpr
    oudl
    y*
    Hi
    m:ai
    boy
    ouhav
    etowai
    t5y
    ear
    s
    Me:
    5year
    s??Why
    ?
    Hi
    m:doyouthinkMbali
    willgetmar
    ri
    ed
    wi
    thoutt
    hepresenceofherbrot
    her
    ??
    He'
    sgotapoi
    ntt
    her
    e
    Me:I
    '
    llmakeaplanbutI
    '
    m sti
    l
    lsay
    ingbyt
    he
    endofnexty
    earI'
    l
    lbemarr
    ied
    Him:
    wenanaaiIhearyoudearbrot
    herand
    don'
    twor
    ryaboutme,uhhsooit'
    sFri
    day
    t
    oday
    Me:
    yeahit
    'sFr
    iday
    ,wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng
    wi
    ththi
    s
    Hi
    m:usual
    l
    yonFr
    iday
    swehi
    tthecl
    ub
    Me:
    no,
    no,
    noandno
    Him:
    don'twor
    ryI
    '
    llmakesur
    egi
    rl
    sst
    ay
    awayfr
    om you
    Me:doyouknowy
    our
    sel
    fwheny
    ouar
    e
    dr
    unk??
    Hi
    m:comeonI
    '
    m nott
    hatbad
    Me:youarewaybey ondbad,v
    elet
    ellme
    whatwerey outhi
    nkingsendi
    ngdadav i
    deo
    ofyouhavingsexwith4girl
    sthesametime,
    nowaitwhydi dyoutakethevi
    deointhe
    fi
    rstpl
    ace?
    Hi
    m:MJIwasdr
    unkandy
    ouknowv
    erywel
    l
    Idon'
    tthi
    nkst
    rai
    ghtwhenI
    '
    m dr
    unk
    Me:
    youst
    il
    lhav
    en'
    tanswer
    edme
    Him:wellIwasthi
    nki
    ngaboutpor
    nst
    arsand
    Ithoughtitwoul
    dbecoolt
    obeoney ou
    knowI .
    .
    Il
    aughathi
    m ohgodt
    hebr
    othery
    ougav
    e
    me
    Me:*
    laughing*
    what
    'scool
    aboutbei
    nga
    por
    nstar?
    Hi
    m:*brushi
    nghishead*
    Iwasn'
    tthi
    nki
    ng
    st
    rai
    ghthauleav
    emeal one
    Me:
    *catchi
    ngmybreat
    h*waitt
    hent
    ell
    me
    whysendthevi
    deotodad?
    Hi
    m:*
    avoi
    dingey
    econt
    act
    *leav
    emeal
    one
    MJ
    Me:
    not
    ell
    me
    Hi
    m:no
    Me:Iwi
    l
    lhav
    ethecopyoft
    hatv
    ideoy
    ou
    know
    Hi
    m:*
    eyesal
    lout
    *you'
    rej
    oki
    ngr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    tel
    lmewhyy
    ousentt
    hev
    ideot
    odad
    Him:Iwasjustbeingstupid,
    Idi
    dn'tknow
    whyIpickeddadi neveryoneIknow,Ieven
    sentitt
    ohim withacapt i
    on
    Me:
    whydi
    dthecapt
    ionsay
    Him:i
    tsaid"Whatdoyout hi
    nk?DidIaceit
    ?"
    Andsayingitoutl
    oudnowmakesme
    real
    i
    zeitwascompl et
    elystupi
    d*heburyhi
    s
    headinhishands*
    Icrackupinl
    aught
    erhol
    dingmyst
    omach
    ti
    ll
    myt ear
    sfal
    lout
    Hi
    m:y
    ouknowwhatIt
    hinkI
    '
    llpassongoi
    ng
    t
    othecl
    ubt
    oday
    Me:*
    sti
    l
    llaughi
    ng*Whatdoy
    out
    hink?Di
    dI
    acei
    t?
    Hej
    oinsi
    nlaughi
    ng
    Me:wheny ouwokeupandr eali
    zedy ousent
    thatvi
    deotodad,youwerealloverthepl
    ace
    andlaterwentt
    oy ourr
    oom andst art
    ed
    packi
    ngbusysay i
    ng"he'
    sgonnaki llme,
    he's
    gonnakill
    me"
    Him:
    eii
    nev eryt
    hingthathappenedI'
    mjust
    gl
    adhedidn'tseethev i
    deoandplease
    del
    etet
    hatcopy
    Me:
    ther
    e'snocopy
    Hi
    m:y
    oudev
    il
    Il
    aughandhej umpsonme,webothendup
    ontheground.
    .ahhIl
    ovet
    hisl
    i
    ttl
    ebrot
    her
    ofmine.

    Monday

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Thisisi
    t,mybr otherisleavi
    ngnowI '
    m so
    gonnami sshim,i
    nt heselasttwoday swe
    tri
    edtoenjoyourselvesbuti twas
    i
    mpossible,knowi ngverywel l
    we'l
    lsee
    eachotherin5y earsbutI '
    m gladIgotto
    spendthem withhi m.Yesterdayhewas
    tel
    li
    ngmeaboutt hedo'sanddon' thisl
    isti
    s
    solongIhav ealr
    eadyf orgotsomeoft hem.
    Si
    pho:
    thi
    sisi
    t*l
    ooki
    ngatme*
    Il
    ookatSJnextt
    ohim,
    seei
    ngSJnolonger
    fr
    eaksmeout,
    Icr
    ouchdowninf
    rontofhi
    m
    Me:*br
    ushi
    nghi
    shead*t
    akegoodcareof
    hi
    m okandmakesurehedoesn'
    tfor
    get
    aboutme
    Sipho:
    Iwi
    l
    lneverev
    eni
    nmywi
    l
    destdr
    eams
    andhowareyo..
    .
    Me:
    *ri
    singup*
    it'
    sal
    ongst
    ory
    .
    Hi
    m:t
    akegoodcar
    eofmyhousepl
    ease
    Me:
    *smili
    ng*Iwi
    l
    l.
    .canyoudomeonemor
    e
    f
    avourbefor
    ethecabgetsher
    e
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    ing*any
    thi
    ng
    Me:
    singf
    orme
    Hel
    aughsI
    '
    m sogonnami
    sst
    hatl
    augh
    Hi
    m:inall
    thethi
    ngsy
    oucoul
    daskmet
    odo
    whysingi
    ng?
    Me:
    *gi
    vi
    nghi
    mthepuppyey
    es*
    please
    Hi
    m:okok
    Hecl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    .
    Hi
    m:"
    Iwi
    sht
    hatwecoul
    ddoi
    tov
    eragai
    n
    Ev
    erysmi
    l
    e,ev
    eryt
    ear
    ,ev
    erypar
    t
    CauseIknowthatnot
    hingev
    erwi
    l
    lendi
    f
    i
    t'
    ssafeinsi
    deourhear
    ts
    Sol
    et'
    smov
    eonbutnev
    erl
    etgo
    Aswet
    aket
    hesest
    epsonourown
    What
    everwi
    l
    lbe,
    I'
    ll
    remembery
    ouso
    r
    ememberme
    Rememberme
    AndI
    '
    llbet
    her
    e
    Rememberme
    Wheny
    ou,
    feel
    lostsomewher
    e
    AndIknow,
    wit
    hjustonemagi
    ctouch
    I
    tcanal
    lreappear
    Whenev
    ery
    ouneed
    Agoodmemor
    y
    Rememberme"
    Myt ear
    sar
    eal
    readyf
    all
    i
    ngdownmy
    cheeks
    Hi
    m:"
    Looki
    ngaty
    our
    ightnow
    Iknowhowhar
    ditwi
    l
    lbet
    omov
    eon
    ButIswearoutt
    her
    ewe'
    l
    lfi
    ndwher
    ewe
    bel
    ong
    AndIknowitwon'
    tbeeasybuti
    nmyhear
    t
    I
    'l
    lcar
    ryyouwit
    hme
    Whatev
    eryyoudo,
    RemembermeandI
    '
    ll
    Remembery
    ou

    Rememberme
    AndI
    '
    llbet
    her
    e
    Rememberme
    Wheny
    ouf
    eel
    lost
    ,somewher
    e
    AndIknowwi
    thj
    ustonemagi
    ctouch
    I
    tcanal
    lreappear
    Whenev
    ery
    ouneed
    Agoodmemor
    y
    Rememberme

    Somanynewday
    supahead
    AndI
    '
    m exci
    tedt
    oseeal
    loft
    hem
    Butpl
    easedon'
    tfor
    getaboutt
    hist
    ime
    Justcl
    osey
    ourey
    esand.
    .
    Rememberme
    AndI
    '
    llbet
    her
    e
    Rememberme
    Wheny
    ouf
    eel
    lost
    ,somewher
    e
    AndIknowwi
    thj
    ustonemagi
    ctouch
    I
    tcanal
    lreappear
    Whenev
    ery
    ouneed
    Agoodmemor
    y
    Rememberme
    Whenev
    ery
    ouneed
    Agoodmemor
    y
    Rememberme.
    ."
    Thet
    ear
    swon'
    tst
    opf
    all
    i
    ng
    Thecabhoot
    s,wet
    henhugf
    ort
    hel
    astt
    ime
    Si
    pho:
    Ilov
    eyoudon'
    tyouev
    erf
    orgett
    hat
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oo.
    Webreakt
    hehug,
    andher
    oll
    hissui
    tcases
    t
    othecab.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t34~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    "
    Iwi
    sht
    hatwecoul
    ddoi
    tov
    eragai
    n
    Ev
    erysmi
    l
    e,ev
    eryt
    ear
    ,ev
    erypar
    t
    CauseIknowthatnot
    hingev
    erwi
    l
    lendi
    f
    i
    t'
    ssafeinsi
    deourhear
    ts.
    "
    Iwatchthecabdriveawaywi t
    hourey es
    l
    ocked,thetear
    swon'tstopflowingfrom
    bothoureyesIkeepwav ingt
    ill
    thecabi s
    outofsight
    .Inolongerfeell
    i
    kegoi ngto
    workfunnyhowIcoul dn'
    twaitforMonday
    soIcouldgobackt oworkbutnowIf eel
    l
    ikegoi ngbackintimecausebackinti
    me
    mybr ot
    herhaven'
    tleft
    ,howdoImov eon
    withouthim IguessIjusthavet
    obeabi g
    gir
    l andgetusedt obeingwit
    houthi
    mf or5
    years.Iwipemyt earsandlookdownatMJ
    Me:Iguessi
    t'
    sjusty
    ouandmebuddyy
    eah
    j
    ustyouandme.
    "
    Mor
    ningMbal
    i
    "
    Ij
    umpal
    i
    ttl
    e
    Me:*
    holdi
    ngmychest
    *woahbab'
    zondi
    you
    st
    art
    ledme
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m sor
    rychi
    l
    dbutwher
    e'sy
    ourmi
    ndat
    ?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    Imi
    sshi
    m al
    ready
    Hi
    m:who?
    Me:
    Sipho
    Hi
    m:wher
    eishe?
    Me:
    onhi
    swayt
    otheai
    rpor
    t
    Hi
    m:wher
    e'shegoi
    ng?
    Me:
    Engl
    and
    Hi
    m:woah,
    whenwi
    l
    lhecomeback?
    Me:i
    n5y ear
    s*swal
    l
    owi
    ngt
    hel
    umponmy
    t
    hroat*
    Hi
    m:don'
    tyoumean5weeks?
    Me:
    no
    Him:whatwi
    l
    lhebedoi
    ngi
    nEngl
    andf
    or5
    year
    s?
    Me:
    hisi
    nit
    iat
    ion
    Hi
    m:owhI'
    vehear
    dalit
    tl
    ebitaboutt
    hat
    ,but
    whycomebackaft
    er5year
    s?
    Me:becauseitwil
    lbeti
    mef orhi
    mt otake
    overthethrone*l
    ooki
    ngatmywr i
    stwat
    ch*
    l
    etmegot akethecarkey
    sf ory
    ouandmy
    bagssowecanl
    eav
    e.
    Henods.Igobacki nsidewitht
    ears
    t
    hreateni
    ngt ocomeoutagai n.
    no
    mbalenhl
    ey ouarestrongerhol
    dyoursel
    f
    t
    ogether.
    ..
    Igeteveryt
    hingandthecarkeys
    t
    henwal koutlocki
    ngt hedoor.
    ~
    •
    Wandi
    :
    itmustbehar
    dfory
    ou
    Me:
    youhav
    enoi
    dea
    Tasha:
    Ibethe'
    sfeel
    ingt
    hesameway
    you'
    ref
    eel
    ingri
    ghtnow
    Ismi
    l
    efai
    ntl
    y,t
    he3ofusar ehavi
    ngl
    unchI
    wasj
    ustt
    ell
    i
    ngthem aboutSi
    pho.
    Wandi
    :weareher
    eforyou,
    yeahwewon't
    t
    akeyourbr
    other
    'spl
    acefort
    hesef
    ive
    year
    sbutj
    ustknow*hol
    dingmyhandthati
    s
    ontopoft
    hetable*t
    hatI
    'm her
    efory
    ouso
    i
    sTasha.
    Ihearsomeoneclear
    ingthei
    rthrout,
    Ilook
    upandf i
    ndMJ'sdarkbrowney eslookingat
    mehi sgazemovesfrom metomyhandon
    thetabl
    ethati
    sbeingheldbyWandi leI
    don'
    tknowbutIfeelli
    keIshouldremov e
    myhand
    MJ:*
    clear
    inghi
    sthr
    oatagai
    n*uhm mayI
    j
    oinyouguys
    Me:
    sur
    e
    Hepull
    soutachai
    randtakesaseatnex
    tto
    Tashawhoisseat
    ingopposi
    tet
    omeand
    Wandil
    e.
    MJ:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatWandi
    *I'
    m MJ
    Wandi
    :
    I'
    m Wandi
    l
    e
    MJnodsandhi sey
    esgobackt
    oour
    hands,
    whyhaven'
    tIremov
    edmyhand?I
    qui
    cklyr
    emovemyhandandconti
    nue
    eati
    ngmylunch
    Tasha:soMJIknowt hi
    sisnoneofmy
    busi
    nessbutIhavetoask,Idi
    dn'
    tseeyour
    P.Aforanenti
    reweekIhaven'
    tevenseen
    hertodayuhm di
    dyoufi
    reher?
    MJ:
    yeahsomet
    hingl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Tasha:
    whi
    chmeansy
    ouar
    einneedofa
    newP.A
    MJ:
    wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ngwi
    tht
    his?
    Tasha:
    afr
    iendofmi
    nei
    sinneedofaj
    obso
    Iwashopi
    ngy .
    ..
    MJ:aslongasyourf
    ri
    endi snotaf
    emale
    hecancomeforaninter
    viewtomorr
    ow
    Ichokeonmydr
    inkandl
    aughathi
    m Londi
    musthav
    ereal
    l
    ytr
    aumat
    izedhi
    m
    MJ:*
    pr et
    endi
    ngt
    obehur
    t*Lenhl
    ear
    eyou
    l
    aughingatmypain?
    Ishakemyheadsuppr
    essi
    ngt
    hel
    aught
    er
    Tasha:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatusconfused*
    am I
    missi
    ngsomethi
    nghere?
    Igi
    vehert
    he"
    we'
    l
    ltal
    klat
    er"l
    ookandshe
    nods
    Her
    :wel
    lunf
    ort
    unat
    elyi
    t'
    sashe
    MJ:
    thenI
    '
    m af
    rai
    dIcan'
    thel
    pyou
    Tashanods,
    MJt henlooksatWandi t
    hen
    hi
    sfoodbuthisheadquickl
    ylight
    supashe
    l
    ooksatWandi asifhehadjustseena
    ghost
    Wandi:
    ahmanwhyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatme
    l
    iket
    hat?
    MJ:
    Idi
    dn'
    tgety
    oursur
    name
    Wandi:y
    ou'r
    elooki
    ngatmeli
    kethatj
    ust
    becauseyouwantmysurname?
    * gi
    vi
    ngMJ
    aconfusedlook*
    MJ:
    yeahi
    sther
    eapr
    obl
    em t
    her
    e?
    Wandi
    :
    dud.
    ..
    MJ:arey
    ougoi
    ngt
    otel
    lmey
    oursur
    name
    ornot
    ?
    Wandi
    :
    andwhati
    fIdon'
    t?
    MJt akesouthi
    sphoneandt
    akesWandi
    l
    e's
    pi
    cture..Ai
    bouMJ
    Wandi
    :
    TheFuckDude!
    *fumi
    ng*
    MJ:y
    oudon'
    twantt
    ot el
    lmey
    oursur
    name
    t
    henI'
    l
    lfi
    ndi
    toutmyself
    Wandi
    :del
    etemypi
    ctur
    eI'
    l
    ltel
    lyoumy
    sur
    name
    MJt
    apshi
    sscr
    een
    MJ:
    done
    Tasha:
    yuhandIt
    houghtKhay
    awast
    heone
    wit
    hdrama
    Wandi
    :
    Smi
    thi
    smysur
    name
    MJ:*conf
    used*what
    'sy
    ourf
    ather
    'sot
    her
    sur
    name?
    Wandi
    :
    Smit
    hismymom'
    ssur
    name,
    Inev
    er
    knewmyf
    ather
    MJ:
    mmmm ok*
    looki
    ngbackt
    ohi
    sfood*
    Iwonderwhat
    'sonhi
    smi
    nd
    Wandi
    :ahguysI'
    l
    lseeyout
    omor
    row,
    enj
    oy
    t
    herestofyourl
    unch.
    Hest
    andupandl
    eav
    e.
    MJ:
    nogoodby
    eki
    ssnonot
    hing?
    Me:
    forwho?
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    i
    ng*y
    ou
    Tasha:
    ncahshamej
    eal
    ousydoesn'
    tsui
    t
    you
    He'
    sJeal
    ous?
    ??Ofwhat
    ?
    MJ:
    I'
    m notj
    eal
    ous
    Tasha:
    _yesyouar
    e,andweshoul
    dal
    so
    headbacktoworknow
    MJ:
    youguyscangoI
    '
    mjustgonnaf
    ini
    sh
    myl
    unchfi
    rst
    .
    Wenodandwal
    kout
    Tasha:
    sotel
    lmewhat'supwi
    thyouandMJ
    causel
    astti
    meIcheckedhecoul
    dn'
    tst
    and
    youandyouwant
    ednot hi
    ngt
    odowithhim.
    It
    ell
    herev
    ery
    thi
    ngt
    hatMJt
    oldme
    Her:
    WoW!Whatshedi
    dwasbeinglowand
    outofpr
    opor
    ti
    onandi
    tal
    soexplai
    nsalot
    causeImy sel
    fcouldn'
    tbeli
    eveMJjust
    mov edonjustli
    kethat
    ..
    ..
    .anywaysowher
    e
    doesallofthi
    splaceyouandMJ?
    Me:*si
    ghi
    ng*Idon'
    tknow,
    wedi
    dn'
    tgett
    he
    chancetotal
    kaboutus
    Her:
    nxwhyam Ievenasking,
    MJst i
    lll
    oves
    youandyousti
    l
    l l
    ovehim sotechni
    cal
    lyy ou
    t
    woar esti
    l
    ldat
    ingbutfi
    rstyouneedtot ell
    MJy ouandWandi ar
    en'
    tdati
    ng
    Me:what??Whatwoul
    dmakehi
    mthi
    nkwe
    ar
    edating?
    Her:
    forst
    art
    ershegott
    oourtabl
    ewhi
    l
    e
    youtwowereholdi
    nghands.
    Ohy
    eah.
    Her:
    andhewasexpect
    ingWandi
    l
    etoki
    ss
    yougoodby
    e
    Me:
    l
    etmej
    ustsendhi
    m amessaget
    opass
    bymyof
    fi
    cesoIcancl
    eart
    hingsupf
    orhi
    m
    Her
    :yeahdot
    hat
    ..
    .I
    '
    llseey
    oul
    ater
    Me:
    ok
    IsendMJaSMSwhi
    l
    ewal
    ki
    ngi
    nmyof
    fi
    ce.
    "
    Mbal
    enhl
    efi
    nal
    l
    y,hi
    "
    Ijumpst
    art
    led,
    whyi
    sev
    ery
    onest
    art
    li
    ngme
    today
    Me:Chri
    sdon'
    tev
    erdot
    hat
    *hol
    dingmy
    chest
    *
    Iwalkt
    omychairandt
    akeaseatt
    henlook
    atChri
    sandt
    hesetwobuf
    fedupguys.
    Chr
    is:
    howar
    eyouhol
    dingup?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    I'
    mtr
    ying,
    you?
    Him:eyImisshim alr
    eady.
    ..
    ohthi
    sis
    Zugo*point
    ingattheguywhoissmili
    ngat
    mewi thdimples*andthi
    sisTom*poi
    nti
    ng
    att
    hedar
    khandsomeguy
    *
    Iguesst
    hesear
    eSi
    pho'
    sot
    herf
    ri
    ends
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*ni
    cet
    omeety
    ouguy
    s
    Theynod
    Chr
    is:
    wewerej
    ustpassi
    ngbyt ocheckup
    onyouandtot
    elly
    outhaty
    ou'l
    l beseei
    ng
    usmoreoft
    enstar
    ti
    ngfr
    om today.
    Tom:
    yeahf
    rom nowoncal
    lmeol
    derbr
    ook
    Me:
    uho.
    .
    Tom:ohIal
    sohav
    esomer ul
    es*
    taki
    ngouta
    pi
    eceofpaper
    *Ruleno.
    1youmustcal
    lme
    ever
    ydayRu.
    .
    Zugo:
    whymustshecal
    lyou?
    Tom:
    whynot
    ?
    Zugo:
    shemustcal
    lme
    Idon'
    tev
    enhav
    ethei
    rnumber
    s
    Tom:
    whymustshecal
    lyou?
    Zugo:
    whynot
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    shhhguysshewon'
    tbecal
    l
    ingnei
    ther
    ofy
    oushe'l
    lbecall
    i
    ngme
    Zugo&Tom:
    whyy
    ou?
    Ican'
    thel
    pbutl
    aughatt
    hem
    Tom:I
    '
    mtheonewhocameupwi
    tht
    hese
    rul
    esmay
    e
    Theyarguegoi
    ngbackandfort
    h,MJwal
    ks
    i
    nwhilethese3ar
    efight
    ingbutt
    heyal
    lgo
    muteassoonastheyseeMJ.
    Tom: i
    fyouareheretocompl
    ainaboutt
    he
    noise,
    itwasthesetwoIwasj
    usttry
    ingto
    keepthem quiet
    Zugo:what
    ?Noi
    sei
    swr
    it
    tenal
    lov
    ery
    our
    face
    Chri
    s:shuty
    out
    wowemi
    ghtgetki
    ckedout
    ri
    ghtnow
    MJ:*
    chuckl
    es*Idi
    dn'
    tcomeher
    eaboutt
    he
    noi
    se,
    IcametoseeLenhl
    e
    Al
    l3oft
    hem:
    ForWhat
    ???
    MJ:
    *rai
    singhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    shet
    oldmet
    oo
    Me:
    uhyeahIjustwant
    edt
    ocl
    eart
    hingsup
    f
    oryouaboutWandil
    e
    MJ:
    ohokI
    '
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Me:
    uhm Wandi
    l
    eisnotmyboy
    fri
    end
    Iseer
    eli
    efwashi
    ngov
    erhi
    sface
    Tom:ohohoh*f
    iddl
    i
    ngwi
    ththepi
    eceof
    paper
    *Ruleno.
    2Noboyf
    ri
    endall
    owedi
    n
    yourl
    if
    e.
    Il
    ookathi
    m wi
    thmyey
    esal
    lout
    ,he'
    sjoki
    ng
    ri
    ght
    ?
    Tom:
    don'
    tl
    ookatmel
    i
    ket
    hatI
    '
    m ser
    ious.
    Someguywal
    ksi
    n
    Hi
    m:MrMkhi
    zey
    ourf
    atheri
    scal
    l
    ingy
    ou
    MJnodsandt
    heguywal
    ksout
    .
    MJ:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatme*
    I'
    ll
    seey
    oul
    ater
    .
    Hewal
    ksout
    Tom:weehI'
    m notgoinganywher
    e,noonei
    s
    seei
    nganyonelat
    er,thatguymayhave
    hugemusclesbutthere'
    s3ofushewon't
    doanyt
    hingtous
    Chri
    s:Isti
    l
    lwantt
    ocharm Bel
    l
    aandIcan'
    t
    dothatwithamessedupfacesot
    here'
    s
    twoofy ou
    Tom:cowar
    dbutitcool
    I'
    vegotZugot
    he
    unt
    ouchabl
    eri
    ghtbuddy
    Zugo:
    I'
    vegotadat
    etoni
    ghtwi
    thZ'
    yandaI
    can'
    tsh.
    .
    Tom:*
    rai
    singhi
    shandathim*savei
    t.
    .ahhI
    thi
    nkweshouldi
    gnor
    erulenumber2f or
    now
    Wel
    aughathi
    m
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    fornow?
    Tom:yeah,
    whil
    eIgobacktot
    hegymto
    boostmymusclessincey
    outwoar
    e
    nothi
    ngbutcowards
    Chr
    is:
    I'
    m notacowar
    d
    Tom:
    thenwhatar
    eyou?
    TheycontinuewitharguingI'
    mjustgonna
    fi
    nishtherestofmywor kathome,t
    heyare
    cool,f
    unpeopletobear ound.
    ..
    theywon'
    t
    replacemybrotherforthesecoming
    5yearsbutIthi
    nkI'm gonnabejustfi
    ne.
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t35~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Tasha:
    okbabeI
    '
    llseey
    out
    omor
    row
    Me:
    okbabe.
    .by
    e
    It
    urnandgi
    veMJmyat
    tent
    ion.
    MJ:
    sowher
    ear
    eyourbody
    guar
    ds?
    Me:
    body
    guar
    ds?
    ?
    Hi
    m:t
    hose3l
    oudguy
    swhower
    eher
    e
    Me:ohhwthem..
    .t
    heyar
    enotmy
    bodyguar
    ds,t
    heyaremybr
    other
    'sf
    ri
    ends
    Hi
    m:ohIt
    houghtt
    heyar
    eyourbody
    guar
    ds
    Me:
    nahandyou'
    l
    lbeseei
    ngmor
    eoft
    hem
    f
    rom nowon
    Hi
    m:sot
    hey
    'l
    lbepl
    ayi
    ngy
    ourbr
    other
    'sr
    ole
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*somet
    hingl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Him:
    youknowI'
    vebeenmeaningt
    odo
    somethi
    ngev
    ersinceFr
    iday
    Me:*
    confused*
    whati
    sit
    ?andwhyhav
    en'
    t
    youdoneit
    Him:*
    smirki
    ng*
    Idon'
    tminddoi
    ngitri
    ght
    nowy ouknow,
    wel
    lonl
    yifyoudon'
    thavea
    probl
    em wit
    hit
    Me:
    I'
    mi nadarkf
    orestri
    ghtnow.
    .whati
    sit
    t
    hatyou'
    vebeenmeaningtodo?
    Hi
    m:l
    etmej
    ustshowy
    ou
    Hepul
    lsmetohi
    m bot
    hmyhandslandson
    hi
    schestwhi
    l
    ehi
    shandsgoesar
    oundmy
    wai
    stwi
    thourey
    esl
    ockedt
    oeachot
    her
    Him:haveIevert
    oldy
    out
    haty
    ouhav
    e
    beauti
    fuley
    es
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*no
    Hi
    m:youhav
    ebeaut
    if
    ul ey
    es*hesaysthat
    wi
    thadeepvoi
    cewhichIfi
    ndkindasexy*
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*t
    hanky
    ou
    Hi
    m:andastunni
    ngsmi
    l
    e*hi
    sfaceget
    ti
    ng
    cl
    osert
    omine*
    Me:
    wel
    lI.
    ..
    Heshutsmeupwi t
    haki sswhichIrespond
    toaft
    erafewseconds,
    it'
    ssoslowso
    passi
    onateandsodamngoodIev enend
    uppoppingmylegup..
    .webreakthekiss
    aft
    ersometimeandcatchourbreaths
    Hi
    m:Idamnmi
    ssedy
    oursweetl
    i
    ps
    Il
    ookdownblushi
    ng..
    hepl
    aceshi
    sindex
    fi
    ngeronmychinr
    aisi
    ngmyheadup
    Him:
    cany
    oumakemet hehappi
    estman
    andbemyladyagai
    n?*
    smili
    ng*
    Il
    aughal
    i
    ttl
    e
    Me:whatki
    ndofpr oposal
    ist
    hiswheny
    ou
    ar
    en'tonyourknee?
    Hel aughsthrowi
    nghisheadback.
    .god
    surelytookhisti
    mewhenhewascr eat
    ing
    thi
    scr eatur
    e..
    heslowl
    ylet
    sgoofmeashe
    goesdownonhi sknee,
    ohmygodIwas
    onl
    yj oking
    Him:*
    holdi
    ngmyhand*Mbal
    enhl
    e
    Mthembuwouldyoupl
    easemakemethe
    happi
    estmanoneart
    handbemylady
    Me:
    .
    .agai
    n?
    Hi
    m:Idi
    dn'
    texact
    lyasky
    out
    hef
    ir
    stt
    ime
    eventhoughyouwere*coughcough*ar
    e
    *cough*mine,t
    hist
    imeI'
    m bei
    ngmor eofa
    gentl
    emen
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    int
    hatcaseYesIwoul
    dlov
    eto
    bey
    ourl
    ady.
    Hest andsuppickingmeupandspi
    nsme
    aroundwhileIgigglet
    henput
    smedown
    andki ssmeagain.
    Him:*
    breaki
    ngtheki
    ss*
    sowhenIpr
    opose
    shoul
    dIusethesameli
    ne
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    uhm t
    hatwoul
    dbeupt
    oyou
    Hi
    m:y
    our
    eal
    l
    yar
    ebeaut
    if
    uly
    az
    Me:*smi
    l
    ing*
    andy
    our
    eal
    l
    yar
    ehandsome
    yaz
    Hesmi
    l
    esori
    sitbl
    ush
    Me:
    arey
    oubl
    ushi
    ng?
    ?
    Hi
    m:NoI
    '
    m not
    ,amandoesn'
    tbl
    ush
    Me:wel
    li
    tlooksli
    kethi
    smani
    nfr
    ontofme
    doesandi
    tsuitsyou
    Him:*
    laughing*wherehav
    ey oueverheard
    such?Blushingisforf
    emalesanditonly
    sui
    tsthem
    Me:
    evensoIst
    il
    lthi
    nki
    tsui
    tsy
    ou.
    Amsgnot i
    fi
    cati
    oncomesin,Ir
    ead
    i
    t.
    .bab'
    zondisay
    sheisout
    sidethebui
    l
    ding
    Me:
    Ishoul
    dgetgoi
    ngnowbab'
    zondi
    is
    wai
    ti
    ngforme
    It
    akemybags
    Hi
    m:Ideser
    veonel
    astki
    ssy
    ouknow
    Iwal
    ktohim shaki
    ngmyheadandgi
    vehi
    m
    ababyki
    ss
    Me:
    goodby
    e*smi
    l
    ing*
    Him:Iam notababyLenhl
    eI'
    m amany
    ou
    shouldki
    ssmel i
    keone
    Me:*
    laughi
    ng*
    I'
    ll
    seey
    out
    omor
    row*
    wal
    ki
    ng
    out
    *
    .
    .
    °
    MJ°

    Me:
    khay
    aI'
    mjust5mi
    nut
    esaway
    Hi
    m:5mi
    nut
    esi
    sal
    ongt
    imet
    ell
    menow
    Me:di
    dIt
    ell
    yout
    hatmeandLenhl
    ear
    efi
    ne
    now?
    Hi
    m:asi
    napowercoupl
    eagai
    n?
    Me:
    powerc.
    ..
    yes
    Hi
    m:meani
    ngIcancont
    inuewi
    thmyf
    il
    ming
    Me:
    no,
    noIdemandt
    otal
    l
    ypr
    ivacy
    Hi
    m:comeonmany
    ouwon'
    tev
    enseemy
    pr
    esence
    Me:
    khay
    a
    Hi
    m:cal
    lmynameIdon'
    tcar
    eyouwon'
    t
    st
    opme
    Isi
    ghdef
    eat
    ed
    Him:wai
    tarewetal
    ki
    ngaboutMbal
    ij
    ust
    becauseyoudon'
    twantt
    otel
    lmethenews
    feed?
    Me:newsfeed??Isai
    dIhavesomethi
    ngy
    o
    t
    ell
    y ouInevermenti
    onednewsfeed
    Him:
    wellt
    omet
    hatsomet
    hingi
    snewsf
    eed
    nowtel
    lme
    Me:
    I'
    m al
    mosthomebr
    ahchi
    l
    lyourt
    it
    s
    Hi
    m:t
    it
    s??
    ?Nowy
    ou'
    rej
    ustbei
    ng
    di
    srespect
    ful
    Me:
    I'
    mjustgonnadr
    opt
    hiscal
    l
    Hi
    m:whocal
    l
    ed?Whoseai
    rt
    imei
    sthi
    s?
    Me:
    I'
    m sav
    ingy
    ourai
    rt
    ime
    Him:
    ncahthat
    'st
    hought
    ful
    ofy
    ou*
    sar
    casm
    ati
    tbest
    *butIdi
    dn'
    task
    Me:
    thent
    alkt
    oyour
    sel
    f
    Hi
    m:ohohkt
    hen
    Si
    l
    ence.
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:hi
    khay
    ahowar
    eyou?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    mfi
    neandy
    ou?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m al
    sof
    ine,
    howwasy
    ourday
    ?
    Him:
    itwasdelightf
    ulthankyouf
    oraski
    ng
    you'
    reactual
    l
    yt hefi
    rstper
    sontoaskme,my
    ownbrotherdidn'
    taskme
    Ht
    alkst
    ohi
    msel
    fti
    l
    lIar
    ri
    ve
    Khaya:
    ohgoodyouar
    eher
    e,i
    t'
    ssobor
    ing
    tal
    ki
    ngtomysel
    f
    Me:I'
    m gonnahavetoaskmom ifyoudidn'
    t
    hi
    tyourheadhardwheny ouwereborn
    causethere'
    sdef
    ini
    tel
    ysomethi
    ngmi ssi
    ng
    upthere
    Hi
    m:*
    rol
    l
    inghi
    sey
    es*
    what
    evernowt
    alk
    Me:Yuhkhay
    agivemeabreak,
    l
    etmego
    showerandchangef
    ir
    st
    Hi
    m:y
    oucandot
    hataf
    tery
    ou'
    vet
    oldme
    Me:si
    nceI'
    mtheonewhohas"newsf
    eed"
    yougonnahavet
    obepati
    ent
    Him:*sulki
    ng*whydi
    dyoueventellmethat
    youhav esomethi
    ngtoyel
    lmeov erthe
    phone,youcouldhav
    ejustwai
    tedtil
    lyou
    gothere
    Me:
    *wal
    kingupthest
    air
    s*Idi
    dn'
    tknowy
    ou
    wer
    ethi
    simpati
    ent
    Hi
    m:hur
    ryupt
    hen
    Ij
    ustr
    oll
    myey
    es.
    ——
    Khay
    a:soo
    Me:soIwashav
    ingl
    unchwi
    thLenhl
    e,
    Tasha
    andsomedudenamedWandil
    e
    Hi
    m:*
    noddi
    ng*ohkt
    hen.
    .?
    Me:
    that
    'si
    t
    Hi
    m:what
    ??
    Me:
    yeaht
    hat
    'si
    t
    It
    hinkhe'
    saboutt
    olosei
    t
    Hi
    m:MJy
    azuy
    angj
    wa.
    .
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    woahI
    '
    mjoki
    ng
    Hi
    m:nxx
    Me:
    soasIwassay
    ingI
    Hi
    m:Inol
    ongerwantt
    oheari
    t*st
    andi
    ngup*
    Me:
    buti
    t'
    sint
    erest
    ing
    Hel
    ooksatme
    Me:andi
    twil
    lrequi
    rey
    outodosome
    di
    ggingup*
    rai
    singmyeyebr
    ow*
    Hi
    sfaceli
    ghtsupIkneet
    hatwoul
    dgethi
    m
    t
    osoftenup
    Hi
    m:*
    sit
    ti
    ngdown*
    I'
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Me: Iwast al
    kingtoTashaandLenhl eI
    didn'tmindornot i
    cehi m event
    houghI
    knewofhi spresence,mymi ndwastell
    i
    ng
    met hatheisLenhle'sboy f
    ri
    endsoI
    decidedt otakeal i
    tt
    lepeakwhi chl
    eftmei
    n
    shock
    Hi
    m:i
    sitsomeoney
    ouknow?
    Me:
    no
    Hi
    m:sowhatshockedy
    oucauseI
    '
    m sur
    ehe
    wasn'
    tanal
    i
    enorishe?
    Me:Iwonderwhyyoucal
    lmeamookwhen
    obv
    iousl
    yit'
    syou
    Hi
    m:*
    rol
    l
    inghi
    sey
    es*
    justt
    ell
    me
    Me:helookedsomuchli
    kenohei
    san
    exactcopyofuncl
    eSt
    he
    Him:*shockedandconf
    used*butuncl
    eSt
    he
    doesn'thaveki
    ds,
    hi
    swifecan'thav
    e
    chi
    ldr
    ensohowi st
    hatpossi
    ble?
    Me:Idon'
    tknowman,Ieventookhi
    spi
    ctur
    e
    l
    ook*givi
    nghim myphone*
    Idi
    dn'
    texact
    lydel
    etet
    hepi
    ctur
    eear
    li
    er.
    Hi
    m:dudehel
    ooksexact
    lyl
    i
    keuncl
    e,
    but
    whywoul
    dhehi
    dehi
    mfr
    om us?
    Me:
    tur
    nsoutt
    hedudenev
    erknewhi
    sfat
    her
    Hi
    m:ei
    sh
    Me:andwebothknowwhatkindofman
    uncl
    eStheis,
    hewouldnev
    erabandonhi
    s
    famil
    yespeci
    all
    yhi
    sownblood
    Hi
    m:yahthat
    '
    strueman,thisi
    shugebut
    whatifwear
    ewr ongt
    histimewhati
    fhe
    di
    dabandonhisownsonj ustt
    osavehi
    s
    marr
    iage
    Me:thatiswhatyouhavetofi
    ndoutyou
    canev enaskSphetohelpyououtsi
    nce
    youwon' tbeabl
    etojuggl
    ebothworkand
    thi
    s..
    anddadmustnotknowaboutt hi
    sti
    ll
    youhav egather
    edinf
    ormati
    on
    Him:
    *nods*ok*smil
    es*t
    hismeanswe
    f
    inal
    l
    yhav eacousi
    n
    Me:
    what
    'si
    nter
    est
    ingaboutt
    hat
    ?
    Hi
    m:comeonwe'
    veal
    way
    swant
    edacousi
    n
    Me:wel
    lIdon'
    tli
    kethi
    sonecauseIf ound
    hi
    m hol
    dingMYLenhle'shand,
    speakingofa
    wonder
    fulsoul
    letmecallher*
    smili
    ng*
    Hi
    m:ahl
    ookaty
    ou,
    you'
    reev
    enbl
    ushi
    ng
    Me:
    nx
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t36~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Sowhent heguysl
    eftmyoffi
    ceearli
    erthey
    l
    eftthei
    rnumber sformetocallt
    hem,I'
    m on
    thecall
    wi tht
    hem ri
    ghtnowIdecidedto
    j
    ustcallthem al
    latoncepl
    usit'
    ssaves
    ai
    rt
    ime/
    /
    Zugo:
    soify
    ouneedanyt
    hingj
    ustshoutout
    tousandwewil
    lbehappytodoit
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*any
    thi
    ng?
    ?
    Tom:Idonotl
    ikethewayy
    ou'
    reaski
    ngt
    hat
    buty
    eahanything
    Me:sooouht omorrowmycousi niscomi ng
    tovisi
    tandIhaven'treal
    lyboughtthe
    grocery,
    Siphowast heonewhousual l
    ydo
    thatI'
    m notafanwheni tcomest odosome
    grocerycauseIknowI '
    ll
    endupbuy i
    ng
    unnecessarythi
    ngs.
    Chr
    is:
    youonl
    yneedgr
    ocer
    y?
    Me:
    yeah
    Chr
    is:
    okt
    hen
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuch,
    canoneofy
    ousend
    mehi
    sbanki
    ngdet
    ail
    ssoIcant
    ransf
    ers.
    Them:
    woooh
    Me:
    uh?Di
    dIper
    hapssaysomet
    hingwr
    ong
    Them:
    yes
    Me:andwhatexactl
    yist
    hat
    ?*I
    '
    m so
    confusedr
    ightnow*
    Tom: y
    ousai
    dy ouneededgr ocerysoiti
    s
    groceryy
    oushallgetwhichwewi l
    lbuywit
    h
    ourownmoneywedon' tneedy ours,
    j
    ust
    takeusasyourbrother
    sokl etustakecare
    ofyou
    Me:wowreal
    l
    y?Causey
    oudon'
    thav
    etouse
    yourownmoney
    Chr
    is:
    wewantt
    osodon'
    twor
    ry
    Me:
    wel
    li
    fyousaysot
    hen
    Tom:
    ohandzugowi
    l
    lbegi
    vi
    ngy
    ouy
    our
    mont
    hlyal
    l
    owancest
    art
    ingf
    rom t
    hismont
    h
    Zugo:
    yea.
    ..
    wai
    twhat
    ?Whydoesi
    thav
    eto
    beonl
    yme?
    Tom:
    I'
    vesai
    ditsodon'
    tfi
    ghtwi
    thme
    Zugo:whataboutChr
    is?Iwon'
    tev
    enask
    aboutyoucauseIknowy ouar
    esti
    ngy
    Igi
    ggl
    eknowi
    ngthatt
    hisi
    saboutt
    otur
    n
    i
    ntoanar
    gument
    Chr
    is:
    Idon'
    tmi
    ndgi
    vi
    ngheranal
    l
    owance
    Tom:
    I'
    m notst
    ingy
    Zugo:
    yesy
    ouar
    e
    Tom:
    am not
    Zugo:
    ifyou'r
    enott henyouwoul
    dhav ea
    gi
    rl
    fri
    endrightnowbuty ouar
    estingyyou
    don'
    twantagi rl
    fr
    iendtomil
    kyoudr y
    Me:
    *hol
    dingi
    nlaught
    er*
    Tom i
    sthatt
    rue
    Tom:
    noiti
    snot,
    youseenowzugoy ouar
    e
    pl
    ant
    ingt
    hewrongideai
    ntopr
    incess'
    shead
    Chr
    is:
    nahhe'
    spl
    ant
    ingt
    her
    ighti
    dea
    Tom:
    yout
    ooChr
    is?
    Me:*giggl
    ing*
    itdoesn'
    tmatt
    erwhatideaI
    gotcausey oudon'tev
    enhavetogiveme
    anallowancesincemyparentsal
    readydo
    thatplusIworkremember
    Tom:evensoy
    ou'
    rest
    il
    lget
    ti
    ngt
    hat
    al
    lowance
    JustasI'
    m abouttoanswermyphone
    vi
    bratesi
    t'
    sMJcal l
    ingandsoonmyfacei
    s
    fi
    ll
    edwithasmile
    Me:uhokuhm Ir
    eal
    l
    yhav
    etogett
    obed
    now
    Zugo:
    okpr
    incessgoodni
    ght
    Tom:fl
    i
    pitZugodidn'
    tyougett
    hetime
    tabl
    e?I'
    mtheonewho'ssupposetosay
    goodni
    ght,
    tomorr
    owi t
    'sChr
    ison
    Wednesdayiti
    syou
    Chr
    is:
    whatt
    imet
    abl
    e?
    Zugo:
    I'
    m al
    sowonder
    ingt
    hesamet
    hing
    Tom:
    theoneIj
    ustgav
    eyou,
    youi
    diot
    s
    Chr
    is&Zugo:
    nxx
    x
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*goodni
    ghtguy
    s
    Them:
    goodni
    ght
    //
    Iqui
    cklydr
    opthecall
    butIti
    salr
    eadya
    missedcal
    l,l
    etmeju.
    .ohnevermindher
    e
    hecall
    sagain/
    /
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    Hi
    m:mybeaut
    if
    ulf
    lowerhowar
    eyou?
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*I
    '
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Him:
    Ihaveaverybeaut
    if
    ulgir
    lf
    ri
    endof
    cour
    seI'
    m goodbutI'
    m ali
    tt
    lesad
    Me:
    *wor
    ri
    ed*why
    ?What
    'swr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:Imi
    ssy
    ouandy
    oursweetl
    i
    ps
    Me:*gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*ahshamesor
    ryi
    twi
    l
    lget
    bet
    ter
    Him:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng* soar
    en'
    tyougoi
    ngt
    osay
    youmissmet oo?
    Me:
    no
    Hi
    m:ouch
    Me:
    Imeancomeony
    ouar
    enotmi
    ssabl
    e
    Hi
    m:ohst
    op,
    you'
    rebr
    eaki
    ngmyhear
    t
    Me:
    i
    twi
    l
    lgtbet
    ter
    Hi
    m:mm y
    ahneh
    Me:
    I'
    mjoki
    ng,
    Imi
    ssy
    out
    oo
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ou
    Me:
    ahcomeonIr
    eal
    l
    ydo
    Him:okt
    henI'
    mjustgonnagr
    abmycar
    keysandcomether
    e
    Me:
    *myey
    esar
    eal
    lout
    *now?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahi
    sther
    eapr
    obl
    em?
    Si
    phow.
    ..
    owSi
    phoi
    snother
    e
    Me:
    uhm no
    Hi
    m:coul
    dy oualsodishupformeI'm so
    f
    amishedthisbr
    otherofminedidn'
    tcook
    Me:*smi
    li
    ng*whydoesi
    tsoundsl
    i
    keI
    '
    m
    al
    readybei
    ngmadeawifehere
    Him:mi
    ghtaswel
    lstartnowcauseI
    '
    m
    gonnamarr
    yyourbeauti
    ful
    sel
    f
    Me:*
    blushi
    ng*butwe'
    veonl
    ybeeni
    na
    r
    elat
    ionshi
    pforafewhours
    Him:so?
    *Ihearadoorcl
    osi
    ngmustbet
    he
    car*
    Me:
    soi
    t'
    stooear
    lyt
    otal
    kaboutmar
    ri
    age
    Him:noi
    t'
    snotplusi
    fyouthi
    nkthiswell
    uhm meandy ouhav
    ebeeninar el
    ati
    onship
    for2monthsnowsoit'
    sdefi
    nit
    elynotearl
    y
    Me:I.
    .*
    Ireall
    ydon'
    tknowwhattosaycause
    i
    t'
    struesincewedidn'
    treal
    l
    ybr
    eakup*
    Hi
    m:catgoty
    ourt
    onguemyl
    ady
    ?
    Iknowhe'
    ssmi
    rki
    ngr
    ightnowIcanf
    eel
    it
    Hi
    m:any
    wayI
    '
    llseey
    oui
    nanhour
    Me:
    ok
    Hi
    m:Il
    ovey
    ouMamv
    elase
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    Ilov
    eyout
    ooKhabazel
    a
    Hi
    m:maybeyourbrot
    herhasnev
    ert
    oldy
    ou
    t
    hisbuti
    tisaser
    iouscr
    imetomakeaman
    bl
    ush
    Me:*
    laughing*
    ohnowy
    ou'
    readmi
    tt
    ingt
    hat
    you'
    reblushi
    ng
    Hi
    m:I.
    .ai
    youknowwhatI
    '
    llanswery
    ou
    whenIgett
    here/
    /
    Idr
    opt
    hecal
    lwi
    thasmi
    l
    e
    .

    3Mont
    hsl
    ater

    Sobeinginarelat
    ionshipwi thMJhasnot
    beengoodithasbeenamazi ng,
    greatwe
    havebeentosomanydat eswhichar efil
    l
    ed
    withsomuchlaught er
    ,happinessandf unI
    al
    sohavedonesomesl eepov er
    sathi s
    housetj
    oit'
    ssobeaut if
    ul,hugeandl ovel
    y
    ,whenwear etogetherwet alkalotabout
    every
    thi
    ngheev entalkstomeabouthi s
    familybusi nessheal sot oldmeabout
    Wandi l
    e,heshowedmehi suncl e'sphot o
    andIhav et osayWandi l
    edoesl ookal ot
    l
    ikehisuncl eitisofnodoubtt hatt heyar e
    fat
    herandson. .
    Khay asay shekeepshi tt
    ing
    adeadendhecan' tfi
    ndany thingsol i
    dand
    youcanseei t'
    sfrust r
    atinghi m.TashaandI
    havebeenal sogr eatshe' snowdat ing
    someguyhi snamei sNkosi somet hingI
    don'
    tr eall
    yl i
    kehi m butIpr etendt of or
    Tasha'ssake, shedoesknowt hatIdon' tli
    ke
    him Ididn'thidei tfrom her .I'
    v eal socried2
    or3t i
    mesduet omi ssingmybr otherand
    MJl i
    ckingmyt ear soffasusual ,l
    astmont h
    i
    twashi sbi rt
    hdayhewast ur ning24and
    thefactthatIcoul dn'tev encal lhi
    m orev en
    sendaSMSbr okemyhear t.Theguy soh
    godwher edoIev enstar taboutt hem?They
    areallcrazybutTom t akest hecup
    shame, theyhav ebeenchecki nguponme
    ev erynowandt henandt heycal l
    ev eryday .
    ..youwon' tbel iev ethistheyall
    transf ersmeamont hlyal l
    owancepl usmy
    par entsev enMJwant st ogi vemea
    mont hlyallowancebutIbl ankl y
    refused, whatwi llIdowi thsomuchmoney ?
    Causet heguy sbuygr ocer yinev ery
    2weekssoIgetmoneyf rom 4peopl eplus
    theoneIear ni
    t'sjustsomuch.Ohand
    bef oreIf orgetSmai sst i
    ll hereaf ewday s
    visithast urnedi nto3mont hsIser i
    ousl
    ydo
    notwantherher eany mor e,shedoesn'tdo
    anyhousechor esall sheknowsi stosital
    l
    dayandeatshedoesn' tev enwantt ogoout
    andl ookf orajob,soIhav et ocomeback
    from wor ktiredev erysi ngl edaycl eanup
    hermessandcooksheev enwant smet o
    puti nagoodwor df orhert oKhay aandI
    cannotdothatcauseMJandKhayaare
    neatfr
    eakssoI'm sur
    eKhayawoul
    dkick
    heroutwit
    hinafewhourssomethi
    ngIcan
    notdobutIseri
    ouslywanther
    eoutofher
    e.
    Soany wayI 'm withMJathi shouse, MJt he
    j
    aguarhasgot t
    enusedt ot hishousehe
    runsaroundl ikeitisnobody '
    sbusi nessand
    yeahI'
    vet oldMJaboutt hej aguarbot hhi m
    andKhay al aughedatmebutsoonr eal
    ized
    thatIwasn'tjokingespeci all
    ywhenIt old
    MJaboutt hescr atchthatlefthim conf used
    thatdayandal soaboutsanel et hedayhe
    stol
    eaki ssf rom me,Khay ast i
    l
    lf r
    eaksout
    everynowandt henwhi l
    eMJi sact uall
    y
    rel
    axed.
    MJ:
    sowhenar
    eyouki
    cki
    ngherout
    ?
    Me:
    i
    t'
    snott
    hateasy
    MJ:
    what
    'snoteasyaboutt
    ell
    i
    nghert
    hat
    younol
    ongerwantheri
    nyourbr
    other
    's
    apar
    tment
    ?
    Me:
    babeI
    '
    m noty
    ouIcan'
    tj
    ustt
    ell
    hert
    hat
    Him:*sighing*
    Ijustdon'
    tl
    iket hi
    sgi
    rl
    especiall
    ysinceshemakesy ouangryand
    doallthehousechor eswhileshedoes
    nothi
    ng, whatwasshedoi ngwheny oulef
    t?
    Me:get
    ti
    ngreadyf
    ort
    hecl
    ubj
    ustl
    i
    keev
    ery
    Fr
    idaynight
    Hi
    m:*
    pissed*
    nxxI
    '
    llki
    ckheroutmy
    sel
    fthen
    Me:
    comeonbabeyouknowv er
    ywell
    thati
    t
    i
    smybrot
    her
    'sapar
    tmentnotmine
    Him:
    youknowwhatl
    et'
    sjustt
    alkabout
    somethi
    ngel
    se
    Me:
    wher
    e'sKhay
    a
    Hi
    m:hewentonabusi
    nesst
    ri
    ptoCape
    Town
    Me:
    andhedi
    dn'
    ttel
    lme?
    Hi
    m:*
    cal
    mingdown*
    ist
    hatj
    eal
    ousyIsmel
    l
    ?
    Me:
    *pout
    ing*no
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    owi
    tis
    Me:mcm,
    sohow'
    stheWandi
    l
    esi
    tuat
    ion
    goi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:st
    il
    lnot
    hing
    Me:Isuggestthatyouguystalktoy our
    uncl
    eaboutt hisandifhereal
    lydoesn't
    knowaboutWandi l
    ethencall
    af ami l
    y
    meetingalsoinvi
    teWandil
    eandt r
    yt oget
    answersfrom him
    Him:t
    hatactuall
    ysoundsli
    keagreatidea
    butwhatifuncledoesknowabouthim and
    heendsupbei ngmadatusf orst
    icki
    ngour
    nosest
    ohi
    sbusi
    ness
    Me:you'
    retheonewhooncet ol
    dmey our
    uncl
    ewoul dnev erabandonhi
    sownf amil
    y
    soItrul
    ythinkhedoesn'tknowandifhe
    doesIsaycr ossthatbri
    dgewhenyouget
    ther
    e
    Him:*
    smiles*andwhatifIf
    all
    intot
    hesea
    whil
    ecrossingthatbr
    idgeandtheseahas
    shar
    ks
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ingback*y
    oumakesur
    eyouswi
    m
    f
    ast
    Hel
    aughsatt
    hatr
    esponse
    Him:
    wowokthenohI
    '
    vebeenmeani
    ngt
    o
    asky
    ousomethi
    ng
    Me:
    I'
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Him:nextFr
    idaycoul
    dyoucomemeetmy
    parent
    s
    WHAT?
    !!
    Me:
    *shocked*uhm I
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:pl
    ease
    Me:
    MJdon'
    tyout
    hinki
    t'
    stooear
    ly
    Him:*
    frowni
    ng*arey
    ouhav
    ingsecond
    doubtaboutus?
    Me:
    what
    ?No!
    Him:*holdi
    ngmyhand* LenhleI'
    venever
    beensoser iousaboutsomeonel i
    kethi
    sin
    myl i
    fe,
    Iloveyouandy ouknowt hat
    ,Idon'
    t
    everwanttol oseyouandIdon' teverwant
    youtoleavemesoi fyoupl anonleavi
    ng
    mei nthefuturepl
    easej usttel
    lme
    now,breakmyhear tnowi tm. .
    .
    Me:pl
    easestopt
    alki
    ngl
    ikethat,
    youknowI
    al
    soloveyouandIcan'
    timaginemyself
    wi
    thsomeoneelsebutyou,
    I'
    m sorr
    yifI
    madeyoufeel
    asifIl
    oveyoulessbysay
    ing
    i
    t'
    sear
    lytomeety
    ourparent
    sbutwhatif
    t
    heydon'
    tli
    keme
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    ing*t
    heyal
    readydot
    rustme
    Me:
    butt
    heydonotknowme
    Hi
    m:t
    heydo.
    .any
    waywi
    l
    lyoucome?
    Me:*
    breat
    hingi
    nandout
    *yeahbutSat
    urday
    Ihav
    etogohome
    Hi
    m:*
    sul
    ki
    ng*
    butl
    astweeky
    ouwer
    ether
    e
    Me:
    andt
    hisweekI
    '
    m wi
    thy
    ouar
    en'
    tI?
    Him:
    Ithi
    nkI
    'm gonnamar
    ryy
    ourasssoon
    soyoucanal
    way sbewi
    thme
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*l
    et'
    sjustgot
    osl
    eepI
    '
    mti
    red
    Hi
    m:buti
    t'
    sst
    il
    lear
    ly
    Me:
    Idi
    dn'
    texact
    lysl
    eepl
    astni
    ght
    Hi
    m:samedr
    eam?
    Me:
    yeah
    I'
    vebeenhav i
    ngthesamedr eam fortwo
    weeksnow, i
    talwaysst artwhereIwal kon
    thegreengr assbarefoott henoutof
    nowher ethebeaut i
    fulladieswithbeauti
    ful
    drawingont heirbodiesshowupandt hey
    surroundmet henwal karoundi ncir
    cles
    withmeont hemi ddlewhi letheytal
    kin
    somef oreignlanguage. .
    ..
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t37~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Iwokeupfrom t
    hesamedr eam justl
    i
    ke
    ever
    yday
    ,itwoul
    dbeeasierifIknowwhatit
    meanscausemay bet
    hingswouldbeal i
    tt
    le
    clear
    .Any wayI'
    m onmywayback
    home( Sipho'
    sapar t
    ment )Il
    eftMJsul king
    hedidn'twantmet ogobutIj usthadto
    causeIhav eadat ewithTashai naboutan
    hourwhi chmeansI 'mlatecauseIst i
    llhave
    tochangebef or
    el eavi
    ng.Thecabdr opsme
    offandwemakeourwayi nsideItakeout
    mykeysoIcanunl ockthedoorbuti ti
    snot
    l
    ocked,whyt hefuckisn'tthedoorlocked?
    Yohthisgi r
    lImakemywayi nsidealr
    eady
    angry.
    Me:WHATTHEFUCKI
    SGOI
    NGON
    HERE??
    ??
    Imakesur
    etoshoutl
    oudsothosewhoar
    e
    asl
    eepwoul
    dwakeupandBINGO
    Sma:*
    holdi
    ngherhead*t
    hef
    uckMbal
    i
    ?
    Loweryourvoi
    ce
    Me:
    *fumi
    ng*
    excuseme?I
    sthi
    syour
    fat
    her'
    shousehuh?Howdar
    eyout
    hrowa
    part
    yhere?
    Sma:
    it
    'snotl
    i
    kethepar
    tydi
    sturbedyoui
    n
    somewaycauseyouwereouthoeri
    ng
    Theot
    her
    sgasped
    Me:may
    beI'
    mthedumbonehere,coul
    dyou
    gi
    vemethedef
    ini
    ti
    onofhoer
    ing
    Her
    :i
    tdoesn'
    tmat
    terwhet
    hery
    ouknowi
    tor
    not
    Me:
    youknowwhatal
    lofy
    ougetout
    Sma:it
    'sSat
    urday,we'
    rest
    il
    lgoi
    ngt
    o
    cont
    inuepart
    ying
    Me:
    i
    nwhosehouse?
    Sma:i
    nSipho'
    shouse*
    say
    ingt
    hatwi
    th
    at
    ti
    tude*
    Me:
    exact
    lySi
    pho'
    shousenoty
    our
    s,MY
    brot
    her
    'shousenotyour
    ssowhenIcome
    backfr
    om myroom Ibet
    ternotf
    indal
    lof
    youhere.
    NxIwalktomyroom f umingSmahast ogo
    shehasto,
    Itr
    ytoopenmyr oom'sdoorbut
    i
    t'
    slockedOhhellno.
    .Ibangthedoorti
    ll
    someskinnygi
    rlopensitweari
    ngmyr obe
    SHE'SFUCKINWEARI NGMYROBE
    Her
    :*at
    ti
    tude*
    whot
    hef
    uckar
    eyou?
    Me:theowneroft
    hisr
    oom nowgett
    hef
    uck
    outandyoucankeepther
    obenxx
    Ipullheroutandcl
    osethedoor,
    justasI'
    m
    doingsomebr eat
    hingIheart
    heshower
    runni
    ngwassheusi ngmyshower ?Asif
    that'
    snotenoughshesleptonmybedy oh
    god
    "
    Babewho'
    s.
    ."
    mal
    evoi
    ce
    It
    urntol
    ookatt hi
    smalebutsoonregr
    eti
    t
    asIfi
    ndhi
    mt otall
    ynaked,
    Iscr
    eam my
    l
    ungsoutcl
    osingmyey es
    Guy:
    shhshnoneedt
    oscr
    eam babygi
    rlI
    knowI'
    m hot
    Me:nxxj
    ustwearsomet
    hingandgetoutof
    her
    e
    Guy:
    ahhcomeondon'
    tyouwantust
    opl
    ay
    ali
    tt
    le?
    Ifeel
    handsgoingaroundmywai stIquickl
    y
    openmyey espushi
    ngt heguyawayf r
    om
    meandslappinghim
    Me:
    whatt
    hef
    uckdoy
    out
    hinky
    ou'
    redoi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:*
    hol
    dinghi
    scheek*
    wai
    tyoul
    ook
    f
    amil
    i
    ar
    Me:
    so?Justgr
    aby
    ourt
    hingsandexi
    tmy
    r
    oom
    Hi
    m:*
    shocked*
    you'
    repr
    incessMbal
    enhl
    eb.
    .
    Me:
    ISAI
    DLEAVE!
    !!
    Hequi cklypicksuphi scl ot hesandr un
    out..
    .myr oom l ooksl i
    keat otalmess
    condomsar eal lov erthepl ace,used
    condomsnxSmawi llcleant hi
    supI '
    mt ired
    ofher..Ichangemycl ot hesi ntojustsimpl e
    j
    eans,hoodi eandsomesneaker st henI
    walkbackt ot heloungewi thMJ. ..
    these
    drunkar dsarest i
    llher e?Nxt hey'
    regoi ngt o
    fucki
    nknowmeIwal kt ot heki t
    chenf ur i
    ous
    opent hecar dboar ds,dr awer slookingf ora
    waterpi pethatSi phousual lyusewhenhe' s
    washinghi scarahIf indi tandputi tonon
    thesinkt ap,
    itisabi tchi l
    l
    ybutnott oochi ll
    y
    soIopent hecol dwat erandgobackt othe
    l
    oungewi tht hepipe. .
    .assoonast heyf eel
    thecoldwat erhitt
    ingt heirbodi est hey
    standupscr
    eamingandt
    heyal
    lrunout
    excludi
    ngSma.
    Her
    :*soaki
    ngwet
    *whatdoy
    out
    hinky
    ou'
    re
    doi
    ng?
    Ijustl
    ookatherupanddownandgoclose
    thetapthencomebacktothel
    ounge
    Me:nowl
    ist
    enher
    e,you'
    r egoingtoclean
    t
    hiswhol
    emessupi ncludingmyr oom aft
    er
    t
    hatyoupacky
    ourthingsandl eave
    Her
    :*chuckli
    ng*youcan'
    tki
    ckmeoutthi
    s
    i
    sn'
    ty ourhouseIai
    n'
    tgoingany
    wher
    e
    Me:
    *noddi
    ng*ok,
    let
    'sgobuddy
    Itur
    nandwewal
    kout
    ,If
    ir
    stcal
    lacabt
    hen
    call
    Tom//
    Hi
    m:pr
    incess
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*heyTom
    Hi
    m:what'
    swrong?WhodoIhav
    etoki
    l
    l,
    I
    j
    ustneedonl
    yaname
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    woahki
    l
    li
    ng?No
    Hi
    m:okt
    hent
    ell
    mewhat
    'sbot
    her
    ingy
    ou?
    Itel
    lhi
    mt hewholethi
    ngwithSmaandt
    hat
    shedoesn'twantt
    oleave.
    Him:
    andwhyar
    eyouonl
    ytel
    l
    ingmet
    his
    now?
    Me:
    Idi
    dn'
    tknowthatshewoul
    dstayf
    orso
    l
    ongort
    hatshedoesn'
    twantl
    eav
    e
    Hi
    m:wher
    ear
    eyour
    ightnow?
    Me:
    wait
    ingfort
    hecab,
    i'
    m sur
    eTasha'
    s
    wai
    ti
    ngformenow
    Him:
    ohohkyoucanleav
    edon'tworryy ou'
    l
    l
    fi
    ndt
    hehousesqui
    ckycleanwheny ou
    comebackandyouwon'tfi
    ndthatpieceof
    shi
    tther
    eei
    ther
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    thanky
    ou
    Hi
    m:sur
    ethi
    ng.
    .by
    enow
    Me:
    bye/
    /
    Thecabgetsher
    eaft
    erafewminut
    esandI
    fi
    ndTashaalr
    eadywai
    ti
    ngforme
    i
    mpatient
    ly
    Tasha:t
    hemov i
    estarted5mi nut
    esago
    youngladywherehavey oubeen?*f
    oldi
    ng
    herarmsagainstherchest*
    Me:
    Igothel
    dupal
    i
    ttl
    e,
    let
    'sgoi
    n
    Wegoinsideandwat cht
    her estofthe
    mov
    ieandcat chother2mov iesthenwego
    t
    ospurforlunchwithmet el
    l
    ingherabout
    t
    heSmai ssueti
    ll
    wegett here.
    Her
    :IwonderhowTom woul
    dhandl
    eher
    causewebot hknowTom isnot
    hingbut
    crazyi
    nfactt
    he3ofthem arecr
    azy
    I
    fonlysheknewt
    hatt
    he3cr
    azydudesar
    e
    gangst
    ers
    Me:well
    theymaybecr azybutIknowTom
    hasgotthi
    s,
    Iwouldhav easkedMJt o
    scr
    atchherali
    tt
    lebutshe'sbarel
    yther
    eI
    wouldn'
    twantherdyi
    ngundermycal l
    Tasha:
    *laughi
    ng*onewoul
    dsweary
    ou'
    re
    notgiv
    ingherfood
    Me:whenallsheknowsi
    seat
    inganyway
    enoughaboutSmahowisbaetreat
    ingy
    ou?
    Her:
    *fakingasmil
    e*good,
    andIbetMJhas
    beentreati
    ngyouli
    keaprincesst
    haty
    ou
    are,
    youar eevengl
    owing
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    wellyeahhe'
    sbeentr
    eati
    ng
    megood,
    andyouknowthatyoudon'
    thave
    toli
    etomeright
    ?CauseIcanseey
    ouar
    e
    unhappywi
    ththi
    sguy
    Her:
    *l
    ooki
    ngdownatherf
    ood*
    butIl
    ove
    hi
    m
    Me:
    doeshel
    ovey
    ouback?
    Sher
    emai
    nssi
    l
    ent
    Me:lookbabeIwon' ttel
    l y
    out ol eav eor
    staywi thhim causethatwi l
    lbeupt oyouto
    decide,butwebot hknowt hatther eason
    you'r
    est ill
    withhimisbecausey ouwant
    thi
    sr elati
    onshiptowor ksinceit'sy ourfir
    st
    seri
    ousr el
    ati
    onshipafter3y ears,the
    quest i
    oni sdoeshewantt hisrelationship
    towor kori sheinitforfun?Nowl et'sf
    ini
    sh
    ourfoodsowecanl eav e,Isti
    l
    l hav eTogo
    backt oMJ' shouse.
    Wef
    ini
    sht
    her
    estofourdat
    eincompl
    ete
    si
    lenceIguessshehasal
    otoft
    hinki
    ngt
    o
    do.
    ~
    Iarr
    iveatMJ' slateI
    'm prett
    ysurehe's
    asl
    eepnow, wellIwentpasshomet ocheck
    i
    fSmal ef
    tandshedi dIal sofoundthe
    housecompl etelyspot
    less,Tom andZugo
    werealsotheresoIcoul dn'texactl
    yleave
    wit
    ht hem thereIhadtowai tforthem to
    l
    eavef i
    rst
    .
    .
    Isneaki
    nsidecov
    ersmaki
    ngsur
    eIdon'
    t
    wakehim up.
    Hi
    m:*
    deepv
    oice*y
    oucame?
    Me:
    yeah
    Him:
    sol
    ate,
    Ithoughty
    ouwer
    enol
    onger
    comi
    ng?
    Me:
    Igothel
    dupabi twe'
    l
    ltal
    kint
    he
    mor
    ninglet
    'ssl
    eep
    Him:
    *ki
    ssi
    ngmyf
    orehead*
    goodni
    ght
    ,ILov
    e
    You
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oo.
    Icl
    osemyey
    esandi
    mmedi
    atel
    yfal
    lasl
    eep.
    ~
    "
    Mbalenhl
    e"sayst
    hemostbeaut
    iful
    lady
    wi
    thdrawi
    ngsonherbody,t
    hat'
    snothow
    t
    hedream goes,
    shenev
    ercal
    lsmyname
    Me:
    yes
    Her
    :comecl
    osermychi
    l
    d
    Iwal
    ksl
    owl
    ytoher
    Her
    :gi
    vemey
    ourhand
    Ihesit
    ant
    lygi
    vehermyhand,
    shekeeps
    brushi
    ngitwhi
    let
    alki
    ngi
    nherfor
    eign
    l
    anguagewi
    thhereyesclosed,
    aft
    ersome
    t
    imesheopensthem andlet'
    myhandgo
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    ing*
    iti
    sdone
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    uh?What
    ?
    Her
    :Yourt
    imehascame
    Me:
    myt
    ime?Ar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutdeat
    h?
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    ing*
    youwon'
    tdi
    eyetdon'
    twor
    ry.
    Shereachesforsomethinginherbag,
    and
    herhandcomesoutwi thablackmask
    si
    milart
    ot heoneIusedt owear
    Her
    :l
    etmeputt
    hisony
    ou
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Her
    :youwantt
    owakeupdon'
    tyou?
    Isi
    ghandletherputthemaskbackonI
    wonderwhatishappeni
    nghere
    Her
    :Yourt
    imehascamenowwakeup.
    Ev
    ery
    thi
    ngt
    urnsbl
    urt
    hendar
    kandIopen
    myeyes
    Me:
    *si
    tt
    ingup*
    whatt
    hehecki
    sgoi
    ngon?
    MJi snotontheothersi
    deofthebedI
    guesshehasal r
    eadywokeupandMJt he
    j
    aguarislayi
    ngonthecouchlooki
    ngat
    me...
    thedooropensandMJwal ksinwi
    tha
    tr
    ayonhi shands
    Hi
    m:Goodm.
    ..
    woah
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:*pl
    aci
    ngt
    hetrayonthebedwhi
    le
    gi
    vi
    ngmeaconfusedlook*ar
    eyouok?
    Me:y
    eahI'
    mfi
    ne,
    whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatme
    l
    iket
    hat
    ?
    Hi
    m:Idi
    dn'
    tknowy
    oust
    il
    lhadt
    hemask
    wi
    thyou
    Me:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutIt
    hrewt
    hat
    maskl
    ongago
    Hi
    m:*
    rai
    singhisey
    ebrow*soar
    eyougoi
    ng
    t
    otel
    lmey ougotanewmask?
    Me:whywoul
    dIgetanewmask?
    *okhe'
    s
    conf
    usingmenow*
    Hi
    m:i
    sthatat
    ri
    ckquest
    ion?
    Me:
    uh?
    Hi
    m:*
    giv
    ingmehi
    shand*comeher
    e
    Itakehi
    shandgett
    ingof
    fthebedgoi
    ng
    towardst
    hemirr
    or
    Him:nowtel
    lmeisthi
    smaskneworisi
    t
    theoldonecausey
    ou'r
    econf
    usingmeand
    alsotel
    lmewhyareyouwear
    ingit
    ?
    Iqui
    cklyt
    urnt
    olookatmysel
    fatthemirror
    ,
    i
    tisthesamemaskfrom mydream but
    howi
    sitonmyf
    acei
    nreal
    i
    ty?
    MJ:
    I'
    m wai
    ti
    ng
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngathi
    m*MJIdi
    dn'
    tputt
    his
    maskon
    Hi
    m:what
    ?
    It
    ell
    him aboutt
    hedr
    eam Ihad
    Him:wowthi
    siscr
    eepy
    ,howi
    sthi
    sev
    en
    possi
    ble
    Me:
    *fr
    eaki
    ngout
    *Idon'
    tknow
    Hi
    m:may
    bey
    oushoul
    djustt
    akei
    tof
    f
    Me:
    yeah
    It
    ryt
    otakethemaskof fbutiti
    sli
    keiti
    s
    gl
    uedonmyf acecauseit
    'sli
    keI'
    m pull
    i
    ng
    myownface..
    .whywon'ti
    tcomeout ?
    Me:*
    pul
    l
    ingi
    thar
    der
    *I.
    .twoon'
    tco.
    .come
    of
    f
    MJ:babest
    opy
    ou'
    l
    lhur
    tyour
    sel
    f*hol
    ding
    myhands*
    Me:
    *cr
    ying*
    whywon'
    ti
    tcomeof
    f?
    Hi
    m:*
    looki
    ngatmeconf
    used*y
    o..
    u..
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:y
    ourt
    ear
    s
    Me:what
    'swr
    ongwi t
    hm. .
    .wai
    thowarey
    ou
    seei
    ngmytearscauseIhavethi
    smaskon?
    Hi
    m:exact
    ly,
    thetearsar
    erol
    l
    ingdownt
    he
    masknotyourcheeks
    It
    urnt
    olookatt
    hemi
    rr
    oragai
    n
    Me:
    butIcanf
    eel
    them onmycheeks
    Hi
    m:i
    t'
    sli
    ket
    hemaski
    syourf
    aceandy
    our
    f
    acei
    sthemask.
    Me:
    *shaki
    ngmyhead*
    nonono
    Ikeepsay
    ingnowhi
    l
    emyt
    ear
    srol
    ldown
    mycheeks/ maskwit
    hMJl ooki
    ngatme
    withnot
    hingbutpit
    yandyoucouldseehe
    wantstodosomet hi
    ngl
    ikehelpi
    ngbuthe
    seemsdef eat
    ed.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t38~

    °
    MJ°

    Ifeelsohelpl
    essrightnowandconfused,
    i
    s
    thi
    sev enpossibl
    e?Ifiti
    sthenhow?IwishI
    coulddosomet hi
    ngr i
    ghtnowsomet hi
    ng
    mor ethanj
    ustcomf orti
    ngher.
    Me:babecal
    m downpl
    ease,
    yourt
    ear
    sar
    e
    br
    eakingmyheart
    .
    She'
    sinmyar
    mscr
    ying
    Me:
    youknowwhatl
    et'
    sgo
    Her
    :*l
    ooki
    ngupt
    ome*
    gowher
    e?
    Me:
    I'
    m dri
    vi
    ngyoudowntoyourv
    il
    lage
    may
    bey ourpar
    ent
    sknowsomethingabout
    t
    hemask
    Her
    :*wi
    pinghert
    ear
    s*whati
    ftheydon'
    t?
    Me:we'l
    lfindsomeonewhoknows,
    noweat
    yourbreakfastIknowi
    t'
    spr
    obabl
    ycol
    dnow
    buteatfir
    stthenbathok
    Shesl
    owl
    ynods,
    Iletgoofherasshewal
    ks
    tot
    hebedtoeat
    .
    ~
    Theenti
    reridetothePal
    acewasf i
    ll
    edwi
    th
    si
    lenceLenhleonl
    yspokewhenshewas
    gi
    v i
    ngmet hedir
    ecti
    onssinceIhav
    enever
    beenher e,Iprayandhopewef indanswer s
    here..
    .anywaywe' vejustar r
    ivedi twasn' t
    easyget ti
    ngi nsidethePal acegr oundsas
    theguar dsdi dn'tknowmeandt heydi dn't
    beli
    ev ethatLenhl eist r
    ulythepr incess
    becauseoft hemask, thingsgotr eallybad
    whent heyor der edhert otakeof ft hemask
    buteitherwaywewer eabl etogeti naf ter
    Lenhleshowedt hem ther oyalt
    ymar kofher
    familythatisonherbackev ent houghI
    don'tli
    ket hef actthattheyal mostsawher
    breastsev enseei ngherbacki sa
    problem. .
    ..
    andIhav etosayt hi
    sPal ace
    l
    ooksbi ggert hanIt houghti t'
    sbeaut i
    ful and
    huge,I'
    m agr ownassmanbutI '
    m pr et ty
    surethatIwoul dgetl ostinsideifIwonder
    offalone,aswear ewal kingtowar dst he
    Palaceweseeawomanpr obablyi nher
    earl
    y40' swear i
    ngal i
    mel ongdr esswi th
    l
    otsofbeadwal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dsusi
    naway
    t
    hatwemeethalf
    way
    .
    Lady
    :*bowi
    ng*pr
    incess
    Lenhl
    e:howar
    eyoumah?
    Her
    :I
    'm doi
    nggr
    eat
    ,I
    '
    vebeenwai
    ti
    ngf
    ory
    ou
    Lenhl
    e:y
    ouhav
    e?
    Shehas?
    Her
    :yes
    Lenhle:oh*l
    ookingatme*t hisi
    sNcami t
    he
    famil
    yseer /
    traditi
    onal heal
    erIdon'tknowif
    ther
    e'sadifferencet here(
    Ihearher
    chuckli
    ngwel lit
    'scloset osmil
    ing)andmah
    thi
    sisMel okuhlemyer h..
    Ncamilooksatmemoreli
    keobserv
    ingme,
    I
    don'
    tknowifherl
    ooki
    ssupposeto
    i
    nti
    midatemeorwhatbutsheshoul
    dknow
    Inev
    ergeti
    nti
    midat
    edunl
    essi
    t'
    sdadof
    cour
    se
    Ncami
    :
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    yourboy
    fri
    end?
    Lenhl
    elooksdown
    Ncami:
    *handi
    ngmeherhand*
    nicet
    omeet
    youson
    Me:
    *shaki
    ngherhand*
    nicet
    omeety
    out
    oo
    Her
    :nowcoul
    dthebot
    hofy
    ouki
    ndl
    yfol
    l
    ow
    me.
    Wenodasshel eadst heway,wegeti nsi
    de
    arondovelori
    si tahutI '
    m notsurethey
    bothtakeofft
    hei rshoesIfi
    gureoutthatI
    shoul
    dalsodot hesameandt henmeand
    Lenhl
    esitonagr assmatinfrontofNcami
    Lenhl
    e:wi
    l
    lyoubeabl
    etohel
    pme?
    Ncami
    :
    hel
    pwi
    thwhat
    ?
    Lenhl
    e:t
    aki
    ngof
    fthemask
    Ncami
    :
    thatmaski
    snotf
    ormet
    otakeof
    f
    Lenhl
    e:Ican'
    ttakei
    tof
    f,i
    fyoual
    socan'
    t
    thenwhocan?CauseIwantitof
    f
    Ncami
    looksatmet
    hencl
    ear
    shert
    hroat
    Her:
    l
    et '
    swai
    tfory
    ourpar
    ent
    ssoIcanst
    art
    expl
    aini
    ng
    Me:
    herwhat
    ?
    Ncami
    :
    par
    ent
    s
    Me:okIguessIshoul
    dgivey ouspaceI
    wouldn'
    twanttoseem di
    srespectf
    ulsi
    nce
    t
    hislooksl
    ikeafamil
    ymat t
    er *
    get
    tingup*
    Ncami:
    nosi
    t,
    Mbalenhl
    e'
    spar
    ent
    sal
    ready
    know y
    ou'
    reher
    e
    Me:
    *conf
    used*how?
    Her
    :causeIt
    oldt
    hem si
    nceIal
    readyknew
    y
    ouwer
    ecomi
    ngnotpl
    easesi
    t
    Isi
    ghasIsitbackdownandLenhlehol
    ds
    myhandandIgi v
    eherasmil
    e.After2
    minut
    estheKingandQueenwalksinand
    Lenhl
    equickl
    ylet
    sgoofmyhandj umping
    onherparent
    sandtheyhugherback
    Queen:
    ohmysunf
    lowerdon'
    tcr
    y
    King:
    youknowIdidn'
    tbel
    iev
    eNcamiwhen
    shesaidyou'
    reonyourwayher
    ewit
    ha
    maskstuckonface
    Theybot
    htur
    ntol
    ookatme
    King:i
    tisnicetoseey ouagai
    nsonandI
    don'tl
    ikethef actt
    hatwealwaysmeet
    underbadci rcumstances
    I
    'l
    lj
    usttakethatasifhedoesn'
    tknowI
    '
    m
    dat
    inghisdaughter
    Ncami
    :
    heknows
    Me:
    uh?Howdi
    dyou.
    .?
    Shej
    ustsmi
    l
    esandLenhl
    eandherpar
    ent
    s
    si
    tdown
    King:
    *looki
    ngatme*wearest
    il
    lgoi
    ngto
    haveat al
    kaboutdat
    ingmydaught
    er,
    proceedNcami.
    Whycan'
    tIreadhi
    sface?Idon'
    tknowi
    fI
    shoul
    dbescaredorworr
    ied.
    Ncami:lastweekwhenMbal enhlewasher e
    shetoldmeaboutt hedr
    eam t hatkept
    bother
    ingherandhonestl
    yatt hatt i
    meI
    didn'
    tknowwhatitmeant,thosel adiesi
    n
    yourdreamsar et
    heprevi
    ousAv atar
    Queens
    Lenhl
    e:Mom usedtotel
    lmestor
    iesabout
    them whi
    legr
    owinguptheyar
    everyrar
    e
    andverypowerf
    ul
    Ncami:
    tr
    ue,Iwasreal
    lyconf
    usedonwhy
    youar
    edreamingaboutthem t
    il
    lthi
    s
    morni
    ngwhenIhadt hesamedream asy
    ou
    Lenhle:
    thenwhydon'
    tyouhav
    eamask
    stuckony ourf
    ace
    Ncami:
    IsaidIhadthesamedream asy
    ou,
    onyourdream di
    dtheAvat
    arQueenputon
    themaskonmyf aceoryours?
    Lenhl
    e:mi
    ne*
    shesaysthatl
    owly
    *butwhy
    di
    dshedoiti
    nthefi
    rstpl
    ace?
    Ncami
    :Asshesai
    dy ourt
    imehascame,
    i
    f
    shedi
    dn'
    tyouwouldhavenev
    erwokeup
    Lenhl
    e:*
    tear
    ingup*whywasIevenseei
    ng
    them?Whyist hi
    sal
    lhappeni
    ngt
    ome?
    HowdoIgett hismaskoff
    Imovecl
    osert
    ohert
    ocomf
    ortherbuther
    dadbeat
    smetoit
    Ncami
    :
    becausey
    ouar
    ethechosenone
    Lenhl
    e:chosenone?Forwhat
    ?Chosenone
    tosur
    fer?
    Ncami:
    ChosenOnet
    obet
    henextAv
    atar
    Queen
    Ki
    ng&Queen:
    WHAT?
    ?
    Ncami
    :
    yesandsheshoul
    dst
    arthert
    rai
    ning
    Lenhl
    e:*
    looki
    ngdef
    eat
    ed*
    andt
    hemask?
    Ncami
    :Forwhoshoul
    dtakei
    toffshal
    ldo
    sowhentheri
    ght
    fult
    imehascame
    Queen:
    andwheni
    sther
    ight
    ful
    time?
    Ncami :
    itcanbenow, t
    omorrow,next
    week,nextmont h,
    nextyearornev er.
    ..
    the
    personwhoi ssupposetotakei toffwill
    knowwhent otakethemaskof f.
    What
    ??She'
    sjoki
    ngr
    ight
    ?
    King:
    whoi
    sthisper
    sonyouspeakof
    ?isi
    t
    thesameper
    sonwhoplacedthemaskon?
    Ncami
    :
    noi
    t'
    snother
    Lenhl
    e:t
    henwho?
    ?
    Ncami:
    Iwouldbeparal
    yzedordi
    ebef
    oreI
    evenpr
    onouncethatper
    son'
    sname
    Everyoneinthishutsi
    ghs,asformeIam
    compl et
    elyconfusedIdon'tevenknow
    whatanAv at
    arQueeni sbutIassumeitis
    greatbeingitcauseit
    'saQueenaf t
    erall
    Ncami:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatme*
    sonIbel
    i
    evey
    ou
    haveaquest
    ion
    Yeahandsheal
    sokeepsf
    reaki
    ngmeout
    Me:
    yeah.
    ,
    Whati
    sanAv
    atar?
    Ncami:
    anAvat
    ari
    saspeci
    est
    hathasful
    l
    cont
    rol
    ofthef
    ourel
    ement
    softheear
    th
    whi
    char
    e
    1.
    Soi
    l
    &Rocks
    2.
    Water,
    thatspeci
    escanal
    sotur
    nwater
    fr
    om asoli
    dtoal i
    qui
    dorli
    qui
    dtoasoli
    d
    3.
    Airandl
    ast
    ly4.
    Fir
    e
    Ir
    eal
    lywantt
    olaughr
    ightnowbutthat
    woul
    dcomeoutasdisrespect
    ful
    Me:butt
    hathappensi
    nmov
    iesact
    ual
    l
    yin
    car
    toons
    Ncami :
    *sighs* thefounderoft hosemov i
    es
    arethereal Av atar
    s,t
    heywant edt hewhole
    worldtoknowaboutt het hingst heycoul
    d
    dobutt heyal soknewi twasf orbiddento
    l
    etothersknowwhatt heycoul ddosot hey
    cameupwi thmov iescauset heyknew
    everyonewi l
    l knowaboutt hem butdonot
    beli
    evet hattheyact uallyexistsoi twasa
    wi
    nwi
    nsi
    tuat
    ion
    Me:uhIthinkIgetyouandbei
    nganAvatar
    doesn'
    tsoundbadsowhysayi tasi
    fit
    's
    bad,st
    ressingLenhl
    eout
    Ncami :
    sontherei sadifferencebetweenan
    AvatarandanAv atarQueen, anAvatar
    Queenholdst hesameabi l
    it
    iesasthe
    Avatarandalsohasot herspecial
    powers..
    seeingtheunseen, heari
    ngwhatno
    onehears,walki
    ngwher enoone
    walks,
    havingsleeplessni ghts
    Lenhl
    e:whati
    fIdon'
    tacceptt
    hisgi
    ft
    Ncami
    :t
    hefactt
    hatyoualr
    eadyhavethe
    maskonshowsthatthepr
    eviousA.
    Queens
    di
    dn'
    tgi
    veyouachoicetochoose.
    Iwantt
    otel
    lmymindthatthi
    sisapr
    ank
    butt
    hemaskisr
    eall
    ystuckonLenhl
    e'
    s
    f
    ace.
    Ncami:
    Idon'twantt osaymuchyett oyou
    sonbesidesthatMbalenhl
    eneedsy our
    suppor
    t,Ineedt operf
    orm al
    it
    tl
    er i
    tual
    right
    nowforthebot hofyoutostr
    engthenyou
    fort
    hejourneyaheadbutIneedy ourgo
    aheadtodoso
    Me?Whyme?Il ookatLenhleasshel ooks
    atmet oo,
    welookdeepi ntoeachothers
    eyes,If
    indmy selfsmil
    ingGodknowshow
    muchIl ov
    eherandhowIpl antopropose
    tohernextyearIwasser i
    ouswhenIsai dby
    theendofnexty earI'
    l
    lbemar ried,
    Ilook
    backtoNcami
    Me:
    I'
    min,
    Iwi
    l
    lsuppor
    theri
    nev
    eryst
    epof
    t
    heway
    Ncamismi
    l
    esandl
    ooksatLenhl
    e,Lenhl
    e
    nods
    Ncami:
    okthen,
    andasy ouall
    knowWI TH
    GREATPOWERCOMESACURSEwhi ch
    meansther
    ewillbesacri
    fi
    cesmade,
    now
    coul
    dyoutwoex cuseusIwanttot
    alkto
    theKi
    ngandQueen.
    MeandLenhlestandupthenwalkoutwith
    mewonderingwhatkindofsacr
    if
    iceswil
    l
    bemadebutI'm damnsureaboutwalki
    ng
    thi
    sjour
    neywit
    hher .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t39~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    whataboutwor
    ktomor
    row?I
    '
    m
    defi
    nit
    elygonnagetf
    ir
    edthi
    sti
    me
    around*paci
    ngupanddown*
    MJ:
    comeonIcanj
    ustt
    alkt
    odadf
    ory
    ou
    Me:
    noI'
    m sur
    eyourf
    atheri
    sget
    ti
    ngt
    ir
    edof
    meandmyprobl
    ems
    Hi
    m:t
    henf
    il
    einf
    oral
    eav
    e
    Me:
    i
    nsuchashor
    tnot
    ice?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahi
    twi
    l
    lbeashor
    tnot
    icel
    eav
    e
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngathi
    m*whatabouty
    ou?
    Hi
    m:*
    rai
    singhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*whataboutme?
    Me:argyeahi
    t'
    safami
    lybusi
    nesssof
    orget
    Iasked,
    andagai
    narey
    ousureyouwantto
    dothis?
    Hi
    m:*f
    rowns*Isweari
    fyouaskt
    hatone
    moret
    imeI'
    lll
    oseit
    Me:
    *faci
    ngdown*I
    '
    m sor
    ryI
    '
    mjustf
    reaki
    ng
    out,Ncamital
    kedaboutsacri
    fi
    cesandI
    don'
    tliket
    hefactt
    hatI'
    m draggi
    ngyoui
    nto
    thi
    s
    Him:heyl
    ookatme*li
    fti
    ngmyheadusi ng
    hisf
    inger*l
    et'
    ssayt
    hiswasallhappening
    tomeandIneededy oursuppor
    twouldy ou
    supportme?
    Me:
    wit
    houtahesi
    tat
    ion
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    ing*why
    ?
    Me:
    becauseILov
    eYou
    Him:wel
    ltobadcauseILoveYoumor eso
    youcan'
    texpectmetojustsi
    tbackand
    watchyousuff
    eral
    one
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    thanky
    ou
    Him:noneedtoo,
    andI'
    mr eal
    l
    ydyingt
    osee
    yoursmil
    ebutIguessI'
    l
    lgetusedtoj
    ust
    l
    ookingatitonmyphone
    Me:Idon'
    tremembersendi
    ngy
    ouanyofmy
    pi
    ctures
    Hi
    m:y
    oudi
    dn'
    t*
    smi
    rks*
    Me:*shakingmyhead*y ouknowI
    'm st
    il
    la
    l
    it
    tleconfusedonwhyy ouhadtohel
    pmei n
    t
    his,i
    sitbecauseIar
    ri
    vedwi t
    hyouor?
    Him:
    I'
    l
    lbelyi
    ngifIsayIknow,
    Idi
    dn'
    tev
    en
    askIj
    ustwentwit
    ht hef
    low
    Me:
    we'
    l
    ljustaskl
    ater
    Hi
    m:ev
    ent
    hought
    hat
    'snoti
    mpor
    tantsur
    e
    Me:
    i
    tisi
    mpor
    tantMr
    Hi
    m:y
    ouknowwhat
    'si
    mpor
    tant
    ?
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:findi
    ngoutwhoissupposetot
    aket
    hat
    maskof f
    ,whoknowsmaybeiti
    s
    me*chuckles*
    Me:*giggli
    ng*welli
    tisimportantbutIdon'
    t
    knowi fiti
    syouwhoi ssupposetotakeit
    offIthinki
    tissomeonewho' snolongerin
    thi
    slandofl i
    vingsincetheonewhopl aced
    themaskoni sdeadbutsur egoaheadt ry
    Him:that'
    smakesalotofsensebutI
    '
    m
    gonnat ryany
    waycauseI'
    vebeendyi
    ngt
    o
    touchy ourmask*
    smil
    es*
    Hetri
    est
    otakei
    tof
    fbuti
    tdoesn'
    tbudge
    j
    ustasIt
    hought
    Hi
    m:wellonthebri
    ght
    ersi
    dethismask
    l
    ooksl
    ikeiti
    sv er
    ycomfor
    tabl
    eonyourface
    Me:
    act
    ual
    l
    yiti
    s,
    Idon'
    tev
    enf
    eel
    asi
    fiti
    son.
    Someoneclear
    sthei
    rthr
    oatwet
    urnour
    headst
    olookatthatper
    son
    Ncami
    :
    mayIhav
    eawor
    dwi
    thy
    ouson
    MJnodsandf
    oll
    owncami
    toherhut.
    Isi
    tdownonthegr
    assnextt
    oMJandhe
    l
    ayshisheadonmythi
    ghs
    Me: youdoknowt hatt hisi
    sr eallyunf air
    ri
    ght ?*
    br ushinghi sf ur*Ithi
    nky oushoul d
    haveal sogott hemaski nthatcaseI
    woul dn'tbef eelingst upidyeahMJst ayed
    butt hequest i
    oni sforhowl ong?Whati fit
    takesy earst ot aket hismaskof f?Whati f
    theper sonwhoi ssupposet ot akei tof fis
    Siphosi ncei tishi m whot ooki tof fthef i
    rst
    placeev ent hought hingswer en'tliket his
    butIcan' thel pbutf eel l
    ikemybaggagewi l
    l
    bet oomuchf orMJal ongtheway ,
    hemay
    clai
    mt olovemebutast heysayi nmov ies
    somet imesl ovei sjustnotenough. ..
    Ij ust
    prayandhopet hatourl ovewi llbeenough
    forthej ourneyaheadwi t
    hall t
    heobst acl es
    wewi l
    lfacecausel atelyI'
    vebeeni magi ning
    myf utur efrom nowandmyf uturehashi m.
    Itreall
    yf eelsgoodt ot al
    ktoMJbecausei
    can'thel pf elli
    nglikehe'sli
    steningev en
    thoughIknowhewon' tanswerbutIknow
    he'slisteni ng.Ishouldpr obablycall Tasha
    andt ell heraboutal loft hi
    s,Ncami didsayI
    canonl yt ellthoseItrustandIt rustTasha
    withev erythinginmeandIal sot r
    ustt he
    guy sIt rustt hem withmyent i
    relifebutI
    don'tt r
    ustt hem wellenought otellthem
    aboutt his...
    .j
    ustasI '
    m aboutt odial her
    numbersomeboywal kstomehol ding
    somet hing,themomentheget stomehe
    bows
    Hi
    m:mypr
    incess
    Me:
    ohpl
    easest
    and
    Him:*st
    andingproperl
    y*Ncami sai
    dtotel
    l
    youthattheri
    tualwil
    lstar
    tinanhouryou
    shoul
    dweart his*
    handingmet heclot
    hes*
    Me:
    thanky
    ou
    Heturnsandwal ksaway,t
    heclothesI'
    m
    supposetoweart heyseem rat
    herto
    rev
    ealingnott
    oment i
    onthi
    sskirti
    tisway
    shortanywayIcontinuewit
    hcalli
    ngTasha.

    °
    Tasha°

    HellothereI'
    m NatashaSmi thI'
    m 22y ears
    oldIhav eonesibli
    ngJenni fershe'
    s24and
    annoy i
    ngcauseshet hi
    nkst hewor l
    d
    revolv
    esar oundher.I'm alawyerandIhav e
    abestf r
    iendhernamei sMbal enhleIreall
    y
    l
    ov eherandIwi shall t
    heset hi
    ngst hat
    happenst ohercouldhappent osomeone
    elseImeanshedoesn' tdeser v
    ealloft hi
    s
    tohappent oher..I
    'venev ermetsomeone
    l
    ikehershe' ssweet ,r
    espect ful
    ,downt o
    earthandnott oment ionbeaut if
    ul andshe
    hast hatbeaut iful aurathatscr eams" l
    ove
    me"andy oucan' thel pbutl ovehershe' s
    j
    ustlov ableandshej ustt oldmeaboutt hi
    s
    maskt hi
    ngandal l t
    heot herscar ystuffI'm
    gladt hatMJi swi thhersuppor ti
    ngher
    causeIcoul dhearherv oicebr eaki ngfrom
    thephonedur i
    ngt heweekendIal sohav eto
    godownt heret osuppor therj ustsoshe
    canseeshe' snotal one.Thent here'smy
    l
    ov elifeIhav eaboy f
    riendnamed
    Nkosenhl eIdon' tknowi fIshoul dcal lhim
    myboy fri
    endcauseI 'm notsur eifhet akes
    meashi sgi rl
    friendorI '
    mj usthi sboot ycall
    andspeaki ngt het ruthI'
    m notsur ei fIreall
    y
    l
    ov ehi mit'sjustt hatI'mt i
    r edoft hislif
    eof
    changi ngmanev er ysingledayasi fthey
    aregoi ngoutoff ashi onIj ustwantast able
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    pev ent
    houghithasbeenway
    toolongbutIam r
    eadyforastabl
    e
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    pagain.
    .ohsomeone'satt
    he
    door
    Me:*
    shout
    ing*
    Jenni
    fer
    !!Ar
    eyouexpect
    ing
    someone!
    !
    Her
    :*shout
    ingback*No!
    !
    Iwonderwhoi ti
    scausemom anddadwent
    toseegrandmashe'snotdoi
    ng
    well
    ..
    anywayIgot oopent
    hedoorandI
    '
    m
    amazedtof i
    ndKhayahere
    Me:
    uhm Khay
    ahi
    Hi
    m:Nat
    ashahi
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Me:
    comei
    n*maki
    ngwayf
    orhi
    m*
    Hi
    m:t
    hanks*
    wal
    ki
    ngi
    n*
    Weheadt
    othedi
    nni
    ngr
    oom
    Me:uht
    hisi
    sapleasantsur
    pri
    sewhat
    br
    ingsyouher
    e?
    Him:Iwashopi
    ngt hatMbalii
    swithyouI
    want edt
    oaskherifsheknowswher emy
    brotheri
    ssi
    nceItseemslikeIcan'
    tgethol
    d
    ofthem
    UhIthinktheyhavealr
    eadyst
    art
    edwi t
    h
    thei
    rli
    ttl
    eri
    tualbutwhatdoIt
    ell
    him ei
    sh
    Me:uhMbal igotaurgentcal
    lfr
    om home
    andy ourbrot
    heroff
    eredtodri
    vehert her
    e
    I'
    m suretheywill
    cal
    l y
    ouoncet heysee
    yourcall
    s
    Hi
    m:howcoul
    dhe?
    Me:
    howcoul
    dhewhat
    ?
    Hi
    m:*
    sul
    ki
    ng*
    got
    othePal
    acewi
    thoutme
    Me:*
    laughi
    ng*comeonyou'
    vebeeni
    nthe
    pal
    acesothisi
    shist
    ime
    Hi
    m:nohepr
    omi
    sed
    Me:
    youar
    ejustful
    lofdr
    amay ouknowand
    wai
    twhydi
    dn'ty
    oujustcal
    lmetoaskif
    Mbal
    ii
    shereornot?Whydri
    veallt
    hisway
    ?
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyousayi
    ngI'
    m notal
    l
    owedt
    owast
    e
    myownpet
    rolt
    hatIbuymyself
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    nxj
    ustf
    orgetIev
    enasked
    Hi
    m:y
    ouknowwhaty
    oushoul
    dbeaski
    ng?
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Him:whetherIwantbeerorjui
    cethat
    shouldgoalongwiththefoodyoushould
    havealreadydi
    shedupbynowcauseI '
    m
    star
    vingWomen
    Il
    aughathi
    m godKhay
    aisj
    ustsomet
    hing
    el
    se
    Me:
    *cat
    chi
    ngmybr
    eat
    h*f
    orgi
    vemel
    etme
    godi
    shupf
    ory
    ou*
    standi
    ngup*
    Hi
    m:forsomethi
    ngt
    odr i
    nkIpref
    erbeer
    t
    hankyouverymuchforaski
    ng
    Me:
    I'
    m notabouttogi
    veyoumydad'
    sbeer
    nowayunlessyouwantt
    omeethisbel
    t
    Khay
    a:j
    uicei
    tis
    Igoanddi shupf orhimi t
    'snothi
    ngf ancy
    i
    t'sjustchi
    ckencurryandr ice,
    Iplacehis
    plateandjui
    ceont het raybutfi
    rstbr i
    ng
    him abasinwithwat erandat owel forhi
    m
    towashhi shandsaf terallIwasraisedbya
    blackwomen. .
    Itaket hebasintohim.
    Hi
    m: uuLal
    ahowmanycowsdoesy
    our
    f
    atherwant
    If
    indmy
    sel
    fbl
    ushi
    ngt
    othat
    Me:
    j
    ustwashy
    ourhandst
    u
    Hewasheshi
    shandsandwi
    pest
    hem t
    henI
    br
    inghi
    m hi
    sfood
    Hi
    m:whydoIonl
    yseeonepl
    ateher
    e
    Me:ohdon'
    twor
    ryaboutmeIhav
    eal
    ready
    at
    e
    Him:Iwasn'
    ttalki
    ngaboutyouI'
    mt al
    ki
    ng
    aboutme,youseriousl
    ycan'
    texpectmeto
    befullwi
    thjustoneplate
    Me:
    I.
    ..
    "Teewhowas..
    .ohhwehav eaguesta
    handsomeguestatthat
    "mysist
    ersaysas
    shejoi
    nsus.
    .makingmer ol
    lmyeyes
    Khaya:
    wel
    lIwon'
    targuewi
    thyouther
    eI
    meanlookatme*demonst
    rat
    ingusi
    ngthe
    spoon*
    Jen:
    I'
    m Jenni
    fer
    Hi
    m:Khay
    a
    Jen:
    Ihopemysi sterherewasn'tbori
    ngyou
    orbeingannoy
    ingcauset hatal
    l she
    knows,wecanev engot omyroom andchil
    l
    ther
    ewhilewait
    ingf ormyparentstoget
    back.
    Ther
    ewego
    Khay
    alooksatmet
    henbackatJenni
    fer
    Him:
    noyoursi
    sterwasn'tbor
    ingmeatal
    l
    andshe'
    sdefi
    nit
    elynotannoyi
    ng
    Jen:
    Iwonderwhati
    tist
    hatshewantsfr
    om
    youifshe'
    sli
    ket
    hat
    ,l
    etmejustwar
    ny ou
    abouth..
    Khay
    a:y
    ouknowwhatJal
    iI
    Jen:
    i
    t'
    sJenni
    fer
    Khay
    a:Iknow,
    asIwassay
    ingIt
    hinky
    ou
    shoul
    dr etur
    ntoyourroom beforeIl
    osemy
    appeti
    tecauseI'mreal
    lylooki
    ngforwardt
    o
    mysecondpl ateandIdidn'
    tcamet osee
    yourparentsIcametoseeNat asha
    Wow..
    Jenlooksshockedprobabl
    ybecause
    noonehaseverspoketoherinthatway
    Khay a:
    andwenaNatashaaren'ty
    ou
    supposetobeatki
    tchendishingupmy
    secondplat
    e?OrshouldIkeepmycowsto
    my self
    Ismi l
    ewhil
    eshaki
    ngmyheadandJen
    standsupandwalkbackt
    oherroom
    i
    rrit
    ated.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t40~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ncami
    :
    concent
    rat
    eMbal
    i
    !!!
    Concent
    rat
    e!!
    Me:
    ahhI
    '
    mtr
    ying!
    Ncami
    :
    Tryhar
    der
    !!
    Ahj
    eezt
    hisi
    susel
    ess
    Ncami
    :
    wher
    e'sy
    ourmi
    ndat
    ?
    Me:
    i
    t'
    sher
    e
    Her
    :i
    fit
    'sher
    ethent
    hiswat
    erwoul
    dbe
    movi
    ng
    Me:*br
    eat
    hingheavy
    * maybetheAv
    atar
    Queensmadeami stakeIcan'
    tbet
    henext
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    arQueen
    I
    '
    m sof
    rust
    rat
    edr
    ightnow
    Me:
    consul
    twit
    hthem andt
    ellt
    hem I
    '
    m not
    t
    heri
    ghtf
    uloneasyoucanalsoseet
    his
    stupi
    dwat erwon'tmov etheonl
    ythi
    ng
    that'
    shappeningistheenergybei
    ngsucked
    outofmybody ,
    gotellthem t
    otakethi
    s
    stupi
    dthingoffmyf ace*Iscr
    eam t
    hrowing
    myhandsi ntheair*
    Iqui
    ckl
    yturnasIhearNcami
    scr
    eamsandI
    fi
    ndhersoaki
    ngwet
    Me:whyar
    eyousowet
    ?Di
    dyoudi
    vei
    nthe
    r
    iver
    ?
    Her
    :youshoul
    dal
    solear
    ntocont
    rolyour
    emoti
    onsandIdi
    dn'
    tdiv
    einther
    iverwhy
    woul
    dIwanttobewet?
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    buty
    ou'
    rewet
    Her
    :t
    hankst
    oyou
    Me:
    me?
    ?
    Her:
    yeahi
    tseemsli
    kewear
    emaking
    pr
    ogressher
    e,youf
    inal
    l
    ymovedt
    hewat
    er
    Me:
    Idi
    d?
    Her:
    yesbutnotint
    hewayIwant ,
    cont
    roll
    i
    ngthewaterwit
    hangerwill
    cause
    di
    saster
    sthatcoul
    dkil
    lsogetyour
    emoti
    onsont r
    acksothatnoonegetshur
    t
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Ifi
    nal
    l
    ydi
    dit
    Her:
    andIhopeyouheardwhatIj
    ust
    sai
    d,nowlet
    'st
    rythi
    sagai
    nshall
    we?But
    thi
    stimenotwit
    hangerandmostimpor
    tant
    rul
    eofall
    CONCENTRATE
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*y
    eahy
    eah
    Soithasbeen5day ssincewest art
    edwith
    myt rainingandithasbeenhar dt hisis
    actuallymyf i
    rstprogressandwor seweare
    sti
    llont heWat erelementwehav en'
    tdone
    theot her3.MJl eftafterther
    it
    ual mom and
    dadsai dhehast otalktohisparentsabout
    thi
    sandal sotellthem todrivedownher e
    tomor rowt odiscuss"somet hi
    ng"Iwonder
    whati tis,
    hemaybeal lthewayi nt hecit
    y
    butIknowt hatI'v
    egothi ssuppor theev en
    call
    smeev erydayhecal lsinthemor ni
    ng
    andcal lsbeforehesl eeps..
    .hewi l
    lalsobe
    dri
    vingdownt omor rowwi thTashaand
    Khay atheguy salsosai dtheyar ecomi ng,I
    haven'texactlytoldthem ther easonwhy
    I'
    m her eit
    'sgonnabehar dexpl ai
    ningwhy
    thi
    smaski sst uckonmyf ace.
    I'
    m doi
    ngmyt r
    ainingint heDarkForestiti
    s
    ontheothersideoft hev il
    l
    ageit'scr
    eepy
    andscaryli
    keIwasl i
    terall
    yholdingNcami's
    handwhenweent er
    edi tbutshet ol
    dme
    nottohavefearbecauset hecreaturesof
    theDarkForestcansmel lfearanditgiv
    es
    them t
    heupperhand. ..Idon'tevenknow
    whywehav et otrainhere.
    Ncami:
    good,i
    mpressi
    velet
    'sdothatone
    moreti
    met henwe'l
    lgobackiti
    sstart
    ingt
    o
    getdar
    kandt r
    ustyoudon'
    twanttobehere
    whenit
    'sdark.
    Inodthencl
    osemyey es,
    breathin,
    breath
    outandopenthem. ..
    Ilookstrai
    ghtatt he
    waterandconcent
    r ateont hem Ithenuse
    myhandt oswif
    tthewat erfrom l
    efttori
    ght
    thenfr
    om ri
    ghttoleft.
    Ncami :
    goodnowl et'
    sgo,i
    fyoual
    ready
    knowhowt ocontr
    olairyouwoul
    dbedr y
    ing
    meof fnowbutI '
    m surebythet
    imeweget
    tothepalaceI'
    l
    lbedr y.
    Ijusthopet hatt
    heotherelement sdon'
    t
    takethislongtogetthem right,
    west ar
    t
    walkingoutofher ebutIcan'thelpbutl
    ook
    aroundt hi
    sscaryplacetherearesomany
    unusual snakeshereevenrabbitsherehav
    e
    bl
    ackscar
    yfurnowondert
    hisi
    snamedt
    he
    Dar
    kForest
    Me:uhhmahcouldy oupl
    easetel
    lmewhy
    MJisn'tal
    l
    owedt ocomewithushereI
    meanwhati ft
    heseanimal
    satt
    ackuswho
    wouldsaveuscausenoonewi l
    levenhear
    ourscr
    eams
    Her:
    evenift
    heyhearourscr
    eamsthey
    wouldn'
    tcometorescueuscausethey
    knowhowdangerousthispl
    aceis
    Me:y
    ouknowy ouweretheonewhot
    oldme
    nott
    ohavefearbutyouareal
    sot
    heone
    whoisbui
    l
    dingitr
    ightnow
    Her:
    * smil
    es*forgiv
    eme, andtoanswery our
    questionyourjaguarmaybei nvi
    sibl
    etothe
    humaney esandalsootheranimalsbuthe's
    notinvisi
    blet
    ot heani
    mal softhedark
    for
    est
    Me:meaning?MJi saj
    aguarobviousl
    yhe
    canjustki
    llasnakewi
    thj
    usthisf i
    ngerand
    arabbiti
    salsonomatchforajaguar
    Her:
    fi
    rst
    lyitisnotafi
    ngerit'
    saclawand
    thesi
    zeoft heanimal
    soft hedar
    kforest
    doesn'
    treall
    ymat t
    erorevencounts
    Me:
    whatar
    eyousay
    ing?
    Her
    :I'
    m say
    ingt
    hatMJisnomat
    chf
    ort
    he
    ani
    malsofthedar
    kfor
    est
    Me:ohohkbuty
    ouhaven'
    texact
    ly
    answer
    edmyquest
    ion
    Her:
    ohy esMJcannotcomewi thus
    becauseheisawi l
    danimalmeaning
    obvi
    ouslyhealwayshasangerinsidehi
    m
    andyouknowt hati
    fsomeonel ooksatyou
    i
    nabadmannerordosomet hingtoy ou
    eventhi
    nkingofdoingsomet
    hingt oyouMJ
    r
    eactshedoesn'tthinkhej ustr
    eactsand
    l
    ookingattheanimal softhedarkforest
    youalsoseethattheylookatusasi fthey
    wanttomur derussowhatdoy outhinkMJ
    wil
    ldoifheseesthesel ooksbeingdirect
    ed
    t
    oy ou?
    Me:
    eiokIgetyoubutIal
    sodon'
    tgetwhy
    t
    heyhaven'
    tharmedusalr
    eady
    Her:
    ever
    yoneincludi
    ngani mals,
    has
    somethi
    ngtheyar escaredofevenaLi
    on
    hemaybet heKingofal lt
    heanimal
    sbuthe
    al
    sohassomet hi
    nghe' sscaredof
    Me:
    youdon'
    tgi
    vedi
    rectanswer
    sdoy
    ou?
    Her
    :*gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*Idi
    dn'tt
    hinkyouast
    het
    ype
    t
    hatgoesfort
    hedi
    rectanswers
    Me:wel
    lmaybesomet i
    mesbuttodayI
    '
    m
    onl
    ylooki
    ngfordi
    rectanswer
    s
    Her
    :t
    heyar
    escar
    edofy
    ou
    Me:
    *sur
    pri
    sed*me?
    ??Whyme?
    ?
    Shelooksatmewi t
    haboringfaceohyeah
    I
    'm anAvatarQueenwel
    l"i
    ntraini
    ng"
    Me:okokIgetitstopl
    ookingatmelikethat
    butiftheyar
    escaredofmet henwhydon't
    theyrunawayinst
    eadtheystandsti
    l
    l and
    l
    ookatmeasi ft
    heywantt oki
    llme?
    Her:becausetheycansmel lyourfearI
    knowt hatyoustil
    lhavefearevent hough
    yout r
    yt ohi
    deit,
    them knowingthaty ou
    havef earfr
    ustr
    atesthem causetheyal so
    knowt hattheywoulddieiftheydar edto
    touchy ou
    Me:
    butI
    '
    m noty
    etanAv
    atarQueen
    Her:
    andyoushoul
    dbegladthatwehav
    e
    al
    readyexi
    tedt
    hedar
    kforestmeani
    ngthey
    didn'
    thearyousaythat,
    whent heyseey ou
    theyseeanAv at
    arQueent heydon'tknow
    howt otel
    li
    fyou'
    restil
    ltr
    aini
    ngornotandi f
    theyfi
    ndoutthatyou'
    restil
    ltr
    aini
    ng...
    Me:
    don'
    tev
    ensayi
    t
    Shechucklesandwet al
    kaboutsomethi
    ng
    el
    setil
    lwegett othePal
    ace,
    themomentI
    ent
    erMJj umpsonmemaki ngmef al
    land
    heli
    cksmeal lover
    Me:*gi
    ggli
    ng*MJstopyouknowhow
    t
    ickl
    ishyourt
    ongueisandyeahy
    eahI
    missedyoutoo.
    Hegetsoffmeandwewal ktot
    heeati
    ng
    ar
    eaMom andDadar ealr
    eadyeat
    ing,
    I
    gr
    eetthem t
    henIal
    sotakeaseatandgrab
    aplat
    e
    Mom:
    woahhol
    dony
    oungl
    adywhatexact
    ly
    doy
    out
    hinky
    ou'
    redoi
    ng?
    Me:
    j
    oini
    ngy
    ouf
    orsupper
    Her
    :wi
    thoutt
    aki
    ngabat
    h?Ai
    Mbal
    enhl
    ego
    bat
    h
    Me:
    butmommyI
    '
    m st
    arv
    ingIhav
    en'
    tat
    e
    t
    hewhol
    eday
    Dad:comeonhoneyletmypr
    incesseatf
    ir
    st
    pl
    usIr eal
    l
    ywanttoseehowsheeveneat
    wit
    ht hatmaskon
    Ishootdadanev
    iley
    e
    Dad:
    comeonbabyshowdadhowyoueat
    I
    'v
    ebeenaski
    ngyoutoshowmesi
    nce
    Monday
    Me:
    Ieatj
    ustl
    ikeyou,
    asy oucanseethi
    s
    maskisme,whenIopenmymout hit
    movesal
    ongwithmylips
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Ist
    il
    lwannasee
    Me:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatmom*mayI
    ?
    Her
    :ohky
    oucaneatf
    ir
    st.
    Idishupal mosteveryt
    hingont hetablej
    ust
    l
    ikeev ery
    daysinceMondayandt henIstart
    eating, onSundayafter
    noonwhenoneof
    themai dsbroughtmyf oody ouIwasso
    hungr ybutt henthet
    houghtofhav i
    ngthe
    maskoncamet omymi ndIslepthungry
    thatdayandal socry
    ingbutt henextday
    Ncami cl
    earedthi
    ngsupf orme, t
    hemask
    onlyst ret
    cheswhenIeat ,
    dri
    nkandbr ush
    myt eeth
    Dad:
    youl
    ookcr
    eepymychi
    l
    d
    Me:
    Mom
    Mom:
    Musal
    eav
    emychi
    l
    dal
    one
    Dad:
    okok,
    sohowdi
    dtodaygo?
    Me:If
    inal
    l
    ymadesomepr
    ogr
    essIf
    inal
    l
    ydi
    d
    i
    t.
    Wecont i
    nuet al
    ki
    ngwhi l
    eeati
    ngaftert
    hatI
    got omyr oom andt akealongbathI'
    mjust
    gl
    adt omor r
    owIai n'tt
    rai
    ning.
    ..
    any
    wayaf t
    er
    bathingIhi tthepillowanddozeof f
    i
    mmedi atelyIhav en'tevenspoketoMJar g
    I
    'l
    lseehi mt omorrowany way.
    ~t
    hef
    oll
    owi
    ngday
    ~

    It
    hrowmy sel
    ftoMJIsowi
    shIcoul
    dki
    ss
    hi
    mr i
    ghtnow
    Hi
    m:Imi
    ssedy
    out
    oo*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Me:
    butIdi
    dn'
    tsayImi
    ssy
    ou
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    i
    ng*y
    oudi
    dn'
    thav
    etoo
    Tasha:
    I'
    m sonotl
    ovedany
    mor
    eher
    e
    Ial
    soat
    tackherwi
    thahug
    Me:
    comeony
    ouknowt
    hatILov
    eyou
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    wel
    lI'
    m gl
    adt
    oheart
    hat
    Ial
    sogi
    veKhay
    aahug
    Hi
    m:howar
    eyouhol
    dingup?
    Me:
    ahhl
    et'
    sjustsayI
    '
    m copi
    ng
    Hi
    m:andIt
    hinkt
    hismasksui
    tsy
    ou
    Me:Idon'
    tbel
    ievethatbutt
    hanks,
    andwher
    e
    ar
    ey ourpar
    ents?
    MJ:
    theywi
    l
    lar
    ri
    vei
    nabout3hour
    sIt
    hink
    Me:
    ohohk
    Theguy
    sal
    somaket
    hei
    rwayt
    owar
    dsus.
    Chr
    is:
    i
    t'
    sli
    keever
    yti
    meIcomeher
    ethi
    s
    pl
    aceget
    sbett
    erandbeaut
    if
    ul
    Me:
    heyguy
    s
    Zugo:
    heypr
    incess,
    what
    'swi
    tht
    hemask?
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lexpl
    ainl
    ater
    Tom:oki
    nthemeant
    imecomegi
    vemea
    hug
    Igi
    vet
    he3oft
    hem hugs
    Me:oht
    hisisChri
    s,Zugo,
    andTom my
    br
    other
    'sfr
    iendsandguysthi
    sisMJuhh
    myboyfri
    end
    ZugoandChr
    isl
    ookatTom
    Tom:
    *cl
    ear
    inghi
    sthr
    oat
    *cont
    inue
    Good
    Me:thi
    sisKhay
    ahisbr
    otherandy
    ou
    al
    readyknowTasha
    Zugo:
    greatt
    omeety
    ou
    MJ:
    l
    ikewi
    se
    Tom:
    Tashay
    oul
    ookbeaut
    if
    ulasal
    way
    sit
    i
    sni
    cet
    oseey
    ouagai
    n
    Tasha:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    thankyouandi
    t'
    sal
    so
    ni
    cetoseeyouguysagain
    Chr
    is:
    wuuhTom areyoubei
    ngnicet
    oa
    l
    ady?Am Ihear
    ingweddi
    ngbel
    ls?
    Zugo:
    Ithi
    nkIheart
    hem t
    oohe'
    sfi
    nal
    l
    y
    seei
    ngtheli
    ght
    Tom:
    shutupyoumooks,
    i
    sitacr
    imet
    obe
    ni
    cet
    oapr et
    tyl
    ady
    ?
    Tashabl
    ushesagai
    n
    Khaya:
    *cl
    ear
    shi
    sthroat
    *uhexcusemeI
    havetomakeacal
    l.
    Hewal ksawaylooki
    ngnothi
    ngli
    kekhayaI
    wonderwhat'swrongwit
    hhim,weconti
    nue
    tal
    kingwit
    hmei nMJ'sarmsandTom
    keepsmakingTashablushI'
    mjustgl
    adthat
    ther
    e'snoawkwar dvi
    beever
    yoneis
    bl
    endi
    nginandI '
    m sureKhayawi
    llal
    so
    bl
    endinofcoursebecausehe'
    sKhayahe
    bl
    endsinever
    ywhere.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t41~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Tom:
    *conf
    used*what
    ??
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    yeah
    Ij
    ustt
    oldt
    hem aboutt
    hemask
    Zugo:
    canIt
    ouchi
    t
    MJ:
    no*
    mai
    ntai
    nsast
    rai
    ghtf
    ace*
    Me:
    ahcomeonbabe
    MJ:
    *hol
    dingmecl
    oser
    *noonei
    stouchi
    ng
    mybaby'
    smask
    Tasha:
    notev
    enme?
    MJ:
    wel
    lyou,
    uhm y
    oucant
    ouchi
    t
    Tashagi
    ggl
    es
    Me:
    Khay
    aar
    eyouok?
    Ser
    iousl
    yhe'
    srat
    hert
    ooqui
    etf
    ormyl
    i
    king
    Hi
    m:*
    for
    cingasmi
    l
    e*y
    eahI
    '
    m good
    MeandMJl ookateachot
    hert
    her
    e's
    def
    ini
    tel
    ysomethi
    ngup
    Tasha:evenababycanseethat
    'saf
    ake
    smil
    ecomeonwhat '
    swrong?Youare
    defi
    nit
    elynott
    heKhayathatcameoverto
    myhouseandst oodupformet omysist
    er
    MJ:
    hecameov
    ert
    oyourhouse?
    Tasha:
    yeahhedi
    d,hesai
    dhewaswast
    ing
    pet
    rol
    *rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    MJ:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*nowt
    hatsoundsl
    i
    kehi
    m
    Me:
    yeahsor
    eal
    l
    y,what
    'sgoi
    ngonwi
    thy
    ou?
    Khaya:
    ser
    iousl
    yguy
    sI'
    mfi
    nei
    t'
    sjustt
    hat
    uh.
    .
    Me:
    j
    ustwhat
    ?
    Hi
    m:*smi
    rks*I
    'm dyi
    ngofhungerandyou
    Mbal
    ihaven'
    tevenaskedify
    oushould
    makesomethi
    ngf orus
    Tom:
    dude!Yout
    ookt
    hewor
    dsoutofmy
    mout
    h
    MeandTashagi
    ggl
    ewhi
    l
    etheguy
    schuckl
    e
    Me:l
    unchi
    sal
    mostr
    eadysobepat
    ient
    pl
    ease
    Khay
    a:f
    orhowl
    ong
    Me:
    30mi
    nut
    es
    Khay
    a:wuuhai
    thati
    swayt
    ool
    ong
    Me:
    *gi
    ggli
    ng*uhm Icoul
    dmakeasandwi
    ch
    f
    oryouatthemoment
    Him:
    *smil
    es*t
    hatwoul
    dbehi
    ghl
    y
    appr
    eci
    ated
    MJ: Tashadoy
    ouknowt
    hewayt
    othe
    ki
    tchen?
    Tasha:
    yeahwhy
    ?
    MJ:gomakeKhay
    aasandwich,
    myl
    ady
    won'
    tbeawif
    etoKhay
    anever
    Tasha:
    whyme?
    MJ:Ican'
    taskChr
    isorZugoorTom t
    ogo
    makeasandwichforanot
    hermanewwno
    Tom:
    exact
    lydudeandpleaseal
    soi
    ncl
    ude
    meint
    hosesandwiches
    Khay
    a:no,
    nonoIwantMbal
    itobet
    heone
    whomakest
    hem
    Me:
    what
    ?Mymanhasal
    readyspoken
    Khay
    a:butMbal
    iI'
    m hungr
    y
    Me:youwentt
    oabusi nesst
    ri
    pwithout
    t
    ell
    ingmesoiteit
    herTashagoestomake
    youandTom sandwichesoryouwaitt
    he
    r
    emai ni
    ng30minutes
    Zugo:andwhosai
    dmeandChr
    isandMJ
    aren'
    thungr
    y?
    Tasha:
    noI'
    m notgoi
    ngt
    omakesomany
    sandwi
    ches
    MJ:don'twor
    ryaboutmeIhav
    ea
    gi
    rl
    fr
    iend*l
    ooki
    ngatme*
    Me:
    aghl
    etmej
    ustsol
    vet
    his
    Ist
    andupandtel
    loneofthemaidstomake
    somesandwi
    chesforusandbr
    ingthem t
    o
    uswearesit
    ti
    ngatthegar
    denbehi
    ndt
    he
    Pal
    ace,
    thengoback.
    Me:
    they
    'l
    lbeher
    eint
    womi
    nut
    es
    Tom:
    cool
    MJ:
    whydoIfeell
    ikey
    ouandKhay
    aar
    eon
    t
    hesameWhatsAppgroup?
    Tasha:
    tr
    ustmet heyare*l
    aughs*Idon't
    knowhowt hei
    rgirl
    fr
    iendscopewiththem
    Tom&Khay
    a:Idon'
    thav
    eagi
    rl
    fr
    iend
    Chris:
    woahandwenaKhayawhat '
    sy our
    reasonbehi
    ndnothav
    ingagirl
    fr
    iendsi nce
    weknowTom herethi
    nksthatgir
    lfr
    iends
    arealotofwor
    k
    Khay
    a:Ihav
    en'
    tfoundt
    her
    ightoney
    et
    Zugo:
    youhav
    eagoodr
    eason
    Tom:
    andmi
    newasn'
    tgood?
    Zugo&Chr
    is:
    no
    MJ:*whi
    sper
    ingtome*It
    hinkmybrot
    her
    l
    ikesNat
    ashalookathowhekeepssteal
    i
    ng
    l
    ooksather
    IlookatKhayaandheisst
    eal
    i
    nglooksbutI
    thoughtTom i
    stheonewholi
    kesTashaso
    doesthismeantheybothl
    i
    keher?
    .
    MJ'spar entsarriv
    edwhi lewewer ehav i
    ng
    l
    uncht heyar ei
    nsi de"tal
    king"wi thmy
    parents,aft
    erthatMJwant stoi ntroduce
    met ot hem yesIhadnopr obl
    em wi t
    hthat
    whenheaskedmet hatlastweekbutnow
    I
    'm notsosur e..hi
    sdaduhm whenhef ir
    st
    metmeIhadamaskonsoI 'm notwor ri
    ed
    tomuchabouthi m causeheknowsmy
    facebuthi smom doesn' twhati fshesay s
    thatshedoesn' twantagi rl wi
    thamaskon
    herfacet
    odatehi
    sson,
    amaskt hati
    s
    stuckatt
    hatmatt
    erI
    '
    mjustsupernerv
    ous.
    Tom:i
    t'
    ssohoty
    oh*
    fani
    nghi
    msel
    fusi
    nghi
    s
    hand*
    Zugo:
    don'
    tdoi
    tMbal
    i
    Me:
    dowhat
    ?
    Zugo:f
    ir
    stl
    yitisnotthathotbutTom
    suddenl
    ythinksiti
    shottrustmey oudon'
    t
    wanthearwhathe'saboutt osay
    Tom:whyar
    eyoubei
    ngsof
    orwar
    dwena
    Zugo
    Chr
    is:
    j
    ustt
    ell
    herwhaty
    ouwant
    *chuckl
    es*
    Tom:uhsinceyouhav
    esomesortof
    powersuhm coul
    dyoumakei
    trainal
    it
    tl
    e
    Khaya:
    laughi
    ng*aimarnTom you'
    rebei
    ng
    chi
    ldi
    sh*heremainssi
    l
    entforasecasif
    he'
    sthi
    nki
    ngt
    henhel
    ooksatme*wel
    lcan
    you?
    Ev
    ery
    onel
    aughsathi
    m
    Me:ser
    iousl
    yguyscomeon,Icancont r
    ol
    waterI
    '
    m anAv at
    arQueen"
    intrai
    ning"nota
    r
    ainmaker
    Khaya:
    mcm Ithoughty
    ourpower
    swer
    e
    cool
    wellnotanymore
    Ijustr
    oll
    myey
    es,
    oneoft
    hemai
    dscomes
    tous
    Her
    :*bows*
    theKi
    ngandQueenhaveasked
    metocomecallMJandthepr
    incessf
    or
    t
    hem
    Ohboy
    MJ:
    thanks
    Themai
    dwal
    ksaway
    Chr
    is:
    wel
    lIguesst
    hisi
    sgoodby
    ecausewe
    hav
    etobeonourway
    Me:
    thanky
    ouguy
    sforcomi
    ngt
    ocheckup
    onme
    Zugo:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    that
    'swhatbr
    other
    'sar
    efor
    Tom:
    takegoodcar
    eofy
    our
    sel
    fok
    Inodandgiv
    ethem ahugandt
    henmeand
    MJwalkinsi
    de
    Me:
    MJI
    '
    m scar
    ed
    Hi
    m:comeonbabey
    ouhav
    enot
    hingt
    o
    wor
    ryabout
    Me:
    whati
    ftheydon'
    tli
    kemeandwanty
    ou
    t
    ogetsomeoneelse
    Hi
    m:*
    kissingmyhand*t
    heywon'
    tl
    ikey
    ou
    t
    heywil
    lloveyoubabet
    rustme
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    ok
    Wewal ktotheloungeandt her esi
    tsMr
    Mkhizeandhi swi f
    eIguessohgodshe' sso
    beautif
    ulandt hatdr essshe'swear i
    ngis
    doingwonder sf orherbodybutshehas
    nothi
    ngonmymom phel athatwomeni sa
    walkinggoddess. ..
    wegett ot hem,Ithi
    nkmy
    handsar esweat inguhwhatdoIdonow?
    DoIgr eet?DoIsmi l
    e?Aghnoev enifI
    smiletheywon' tsee. .
    okgreetingiti
    sbut
    howdoIgr eeterr"hi"nothat'slame
    MJ:
    mom,
    dad,
    roy
    als
    YohIdon'
    tev
    enwantt
    orai
    semyheadr
    ight
    now
    Me:
    uhaf
    ter
    noon
    MJ'sM:af
    ter
    noonchil
    dpl easedorai
    seyour
    headdon'
    tbeafr
    aid,
    weal r
    eadyknowyou
    haveamaskstuckony ourface
    Well
    shehasasweetv
    oice,
    Irai
    semyhead
    andl
    ookatthem
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    howar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m goodmahandy
    ou?
    Her
    :al
    li
    swel
    l
    MJ:Iknowy
    ouguy salr
    eadyknowherbut
    l
    etmedoapr operi
    ntr
    oduct
    ion
    Dad:
    i
    nfrontofme??Youwantt
    oint
    roduce
    mydaughtert
    oyourpar
    ent
    sinfr
    ontofme?
    Mom:
    don'
    tmi
    ndhi
    m songoahead
    MJopenshi
    smout
    htospeakDadshoot
    s
    MJanevi
    leye,
    MJremai
    nsqui
    etsameti
    me
    AhDad
    Dad:
    *l
    aughs*
    I'
    mjoki
    ngsongoahead
    MrM:*l
    aughs*
    IthoughtIdi
    dn'
    trai
    sea
    cowar
    d
    Mr
    sM:
    iti
    scal
    l
    edbei
    ngr
    espect
    ful
    MJ:thanky
    ouMom, any
    way..
    .t
    hisis
    Mbal
    enhleMthembumygir
    lf
    ri
    end,babe
    meetZwe..
    MrM: ngi
    zokukhahl
    elaJason(
    Iwi
    l
    lki
    cky
    ou
    Jason)
    MeandMom gi
    ggl
    e
    MrsM: MJst oppushingyourfat
    her'
    s
    butt
    ons,i
    tisnicetofi
    nall
    ymeety ou
    Mbalenhl
    eIhav eheardsomuchabouty ou
    fr
    om MJandKhay aandI'veseenyour
    pi
    cturesonhisphoney oulookbeauti
    ful
    j
    ustli
    key ourmotherhere
    Me:*smi
    l
    ing*
    nicet
    omeety
    out
    ooandt
    hank
    you
    MrM:f
    rom nowonyouhav
    etwodads
    *
    smil
    es*welcomet
    otheMkhi
    zefami
    ly
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    thanky
    ou
    Mom: youcannowleavewe'l
    lcal
    lyoulat
    er
    totalkaboutsomet
    hingwhenNcami has
    arr
    ived.
    Wenodandwal
    kout
    MJ:
    see,
    Itol
    dyounotwor
    ry
    Me:
    Icoul
    dn'
    thel
    pit
    WeseeTashaandKhay
    aatadi
    stance
    l
    aughi
    ng
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkt
    heyl
    i
    keeachot
    her
    Hi
    m:buty
    ourf
    ri
    endhasaboyfr
    iendw.
    .nah
    l
    etj
    ustgi
    vet
    hem somespaceandhav
    e" us"
    t
    ime
    Me:ok,
    andI'
    vebeenmeani
    ngt
    oask,
    what
    happenedwit
    hWandil
    e?
    MJ:
    wet
    alkedt
    ouncl
    eSt
    heandhewas
    f
    umi
    ngst
    il
    li
    s
    Me:owI
    '
    m sosorr
    yIshoul
    dhav
    enev
    er
    cameupwit
    hthati
    dea
    Him:nobabey ourideawasgood, uncl
    esaid
    hedidn'tknewWandi l
    eexistcauseher
    mom sai dshetookamor ningafterpi
    llaf
    ter
    thei
    rnighttoget
    her,hewas/ i
    sfuming
    becauseWandi l
    e'smom li
    edt ohim and
    kepthissonawayf rom hi
    m
    Me:
    that
    'shect
    ic,
    sowhat
    'shegoi
    ngt
    odo?
    Him:Idon'
    tknow,
    hest
    il
    lhast
    otel
    lhi
    swi
    fe
    that23year
    sagohecheat
    edandmadea
    son.
    Ihopeev
    eryt
    hingt
    urnsoutokint
    he
    end,
    andIwonderwhyWandi'
    smom li
    ed.
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Tom:
    theyl
    i
    keeachot
    her
    Zugo:
    yeahIal
    sosawi
    tman
    Chr
    is:
    Ithi
    nkweshoul
    djustdr
    opt
    hisguy
    s
    Tom:
    ifonl
    yIappr
    oachedherear
    lywe
    woul
    dn'
    tbehere
    Zugo:wewereall
    relaxedcausewesawt hat
    herguydoesn'
    tl
    ov eherandthishappened
    andwet r
    iedtomakeherseey ouasif
    you'
    vechangedbutitdidn'
    twork,
    they
    alr
    eadyli
    keeachothersolet'
    sjustdr
    opt hi
    s
    Tom:y
    eahandevenifshedi
    dlikemewhat
    wasIgoi
    ngtosaytohercauseIdon'
    tl
    ike
    her
    Chr
    is:
    youwer
    egoi
    ngt
    otel
    lhert
    het
    rut
    h
    br
    ahgeez
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*buti
    t'
    sofnousenow,
    missi
    onfail
    ed.
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t42~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ncami
    :soI
    'vetal
    kedtoy
    ourparent
    sand
    t
    heysaidt
    oletyoutwodeci
    de
    MJ:
    whatexact
    lydowehav
    etodeci
    de?
    Her:
    seesinceMbal enhl
    eisanAvatarQueen
    ther
    earethingsshehast odobeforef
    ull
    y
    becominganA. Queen
    Me:
    uhm y
    oumeant
    rai
    ningt
    hatIdo?
    Her
    :yeahandot
    hert
    hings
    MJ:
    othert
    hingsl
    i
    ke?
    ?
    Her
    :mar
    ri
    age
    Ichokeonmyownsal
    i
    va
    Me:
    excuseme?
    Her
    :you'
    l
    ldecidewhenyouwanttoget
    marr
    iedbutthisy
    earmustnotend
    Me:
    excuseme?
    ?
    MJ:
    hol
    dupbackupal
    i
    ttl
    e,
    mar
    ri
    age?
    ?
    No,
    no,
    no
    Her:y
    es, andIdidt al
    kabout
    sacri
    fices...
    .someoft hepr eviousA.Queens
    foundoutt hattheywer ethechosenonesat
    anlaterage, somewer eal readymar r
    iedso
    theyhadt osacrifi
    cetheirmar ri
    agebecause
    aHusbandi schosenf oryou, youdon'tget
    tochosey ourhusband.
    MJ:
    excuseme*
    standi
    ngupandwal
    ksout
    *
    Me:
    MJ!
    *st
    andi
    ngup*
    Ncami
    :
    lethi
    m bef
    orasec
    Me:*sit
    ti
    ngdown* maht her
    ehastobe
    anothersacri
    fice,Icannotsacri
    fi
    cemyl
    ove
    forMJIj ustcan't
    ..Il
    ovehim somuch
    Her
    :t
    heprobl
    em isthatbot
    hyouandMJ
    j
    umpint
    oconclusions
    Me:
    uh?
    Her:t
    hef i
    rstt i
    mey ouopenedy oureyesthe
    A.Qchosey out obethenextQandatt hat
    samedayt heychosey ourhusband,
    everyt
    hingt hathappensinlif
    ehappensf or
    areason,youbei ngkidnappedhappenedf or
    areason...
    thedayy oufor
    gottoputon
    contactlensest hatwasn'tamistake
    neit
    heracoi nci
    dencetheonlyreasonyou
    forgottoputthem onwassohecoul dsee
    yourey esandf alli
    nlov
    e,t
    hesameapplies
    tohimt heonlyr easonhewastr
    ansf
    erred
    from thelawfirm hewasworki
    ngont othe
    onehe' sworkingatnowwassobot hofy ou
    cancr osspaths
    Me:
    whatar
    eyousay
    ing?
    Her
    :I
    'm say
    ingMJi
    sthechosenhusband
    f
    oryou
    Oht
    hankgod
    Me:mahy
    ouhav
    egott
    ost
    opt
    hist
    hingof
    your
    s
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    ing*whatt
    hing?
    Me:ofgoingaroundinci
    rcl
    esbef
    oregoi
    ng
    st
    raightt
    ot hepoint
    Her:
    *l
    aughs*
    youj
    usthavetostopjumping
    i
    ntoconcl
    usi
    ons,
    thefi
    rstt
    hingIsaidwas
    thatyouhavetodeci
    det hetwoofyou,t
    hat
    shouldhavebeenobvi
    ousf orthebothof
    you,whywouldIsaybothofy ouhaveto
    decideaboutthemarr
    iageifMJwasn' t
    chosenforyou?
    Me:trustmemahi fyouwereinthesame
    posit
    iony ourwhol eworldwould'
    vestopped,
    thethingst hatmakessensewoul dhave
    notmat tered,andaboutt hemarri
    agecanit
    notbei nthisy earcausemeandMJhav e
    onlybeent oget herf
    or5mont hsit
    'sj
    usttoo
    earl
    y
    Her:bytheendofthisy earyoutwohaveto
    bemar ri
    ed,youdon'tgettochosewhetheri
    t
    i
    st ooear l
    yortoolateyoushouldbe
    gratef
    ulthatyougett omarrysomeoney ou
    l
    ov eandwhoal solov esyoucausenoneof
    thepreviousA.Qshadt hathonour
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    whataboutSi
    pho?
    Her
    :whatabouthi
    m?
    Me: growi ngupIhav ealway simagi ned
    my selfget ti
    ngmar riedt osomeonewho
    l
    ov esmel i
    keSipho, getti
    ngmar ri
    edi none
    ofthemostbeaut i
    fulplacesi nJo'burg
    wear ingt hebestbeaut iful dressIhav eever
    seenbutIhav enev erimagi nedmy sel
    f
    gettingmar r
    iedwi t
    houtSi pho'spr esence*I
    felltearsbuildi
    ngup*aweddi ngdayi sa
    preciousamazi ngev entt oaper sonwhi ch
    i
    snotmeantt obecel ebr atedwi thonl yj
    ust
    theper sony ou'reget t
    ingmar r
    iedt oobutit
    shoul dbecel ebratedwi thal lyourloveones
    sohowcanIcel ebratemybi gdaywi t
    hout
    Sipho? *tearsfal
    ling*
    Her
    :Iheary
    oumychi
    ldbuty
    oushoul dknow
    t
    hatSiphoi
    sal
    wayswit
    hyoujustbecause
    youar
    enotwi
    thhi
    m doesn'
    tmeanhei
    snot
    wit
    hyou
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Ncami
    canbeconf
    usi
    ngsomet
    imes
    Her:
    pleasewi
    pethosetear
    sbecauset
    hey
    arehurti
    nghi
    m morethantheyar
    ehur
    ti
    ng
    you
    Me:
    uh?
    Her
    :yourtr
    aini
    ngisalr
    eadytaki
    ngahuge
    t
    oll
    onhi m sopleasewipey
    ourtear
    s
    Me:
    mahwhatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Her:
    thatisnotformet otel
    lj
    ustgotal
    kto
    MJbef orehegoescr azyi
    fheisn'
    tgoi
    ng
    cr
    azyal r
    eady*chuckl
    es*
    Ist
    andupt hi
    nki
    ngaboutwhatshejusttol
    d
    me,whatdoesshemeansaboutall
    oft hat
    ?
    Trainingistaki
    ngahuget ol
    lonmenothim
    I
    'mt heonewhoi shur
    tbecausemybr ot
    her
    won' tmakei tt
    omyweddi ngnothi
    m so
    whatdoesshemean? ..
    ..
    .Ifi
    ndMJbythe
    Palacel ake
    Me:
    hey
    Het
    urnsandl
    ookatme,
    hi
    sey
    esl
    ookt
    ear
    y
    Hi
    m:*
    scr
    atchyv
    oice*
    hi
    Me:
    souhm I
    '
    m get
    ti
    ngmar
    ri
    ed
    Hi
    m:howdoy
    ouf
    eel
    aboutt
    hat
    ?
    Me:Idon'
    tknow,goodIguessjusthurta
    l
    it
    tl
    ebyt hefactt
    hatmybrotherwon'tbe
    t
    here
    Hi
    m:*
    looksatmewi
    thapai
    nful
    face*
    wow
    ok
    Me:
    aren'
    tyouhappy
    ?
    Hi
    m:areyouser
    iousl
    yaski
    ngmethat
    ,
    what
    'sther
    etobehappyabout
    ?
    Me:
    becausey
    ou'
    ret
    hechosenhusbandf
    or
    me
    Helooksatmewithoutbl
    inki
    ng,
    hi
    sright
    handmakesitwaytohischestwher
    et he
    hear
    tisat
    Me:
    arey
    ouok?
    Him:It
    hinkmyearsaredeceivi
    ngmet hey
    areheari
    ngwhattheywanttohear
    ,could
    yourepeatwhaty
    ouj ustsai
    d
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    arey
    ouok?
    Hi
    m:nott
    hat
    Me:
    you'
    ret
    hechosenhusbandf
    orme
    Hi
    sli
    pssl
    owlycurvesint
    oasmi l
    e,
    showi
    ng
    t
    hoseper
    fectwhi
    teteethofhi
    s
    .

    3weeksl
    ater

    Wellmytrainingisoffi
    cial
    l
    yov erbutthe
    maskisstil
    l stuckedonmyf aceI '
    m usedto
    i
    teit
    herwaybutt hatdoesn'tmeanIwanti t
    onmyf acef oryears.Weareatt hemonth
    ofOctobermeandMJdeci dedt oget
    marri
    edont he28t hofDecemberIhope
    andpraythatbyt henthisstupidmaskwi l
    l
    beoffmyf ace.

    °
    MJ°

    SoonenoughI'
    l
    lbesomeone'shusbandI
    di
    dn'
    tthi
    nkitwil
    lbesosoonbutI'
    m not
    compl
    aini
    ngbecauseILoveLenhl
    ewi t
    h
    everyt
    hingi nmewemayonl ybeent ogether
    for6mont hsbutbel ievemewhenIsay
    thosemont hsfeelslikeyears,thiscomi ng
    weddingt otall
    ybel ongstotheA. Qswear e
    j
    ustfulfi
    ll
    ingt hat,
    I'
    m stil
    lgoingt opropose
    tohernexty earafterevery
    thinghascool
    downcauseNcami t
    oldust hatal otisyet
    tohappen.MeandLenhl edrovebackher e
    toJo'burgy esterdayandI '
    m gladt hatI
    foundmyhousei nonepi ece,event hough
    Khayahashi sownhouseIknowhel ikes
    beingherei nmi ne.
    Me:babeIhavetogetgoi
    ng,
    arey
    ousur
    e
    youdon'tneedany
    thi
    ng
    Her
    :justgoalreadyI
    '
    llbef
    inebutonyour
    waybackpl easebuymeVanill
    afl
    avour
    ed
    dai
    ryicecream atWoolwort
    hs
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    whyWool
    wor
    ths?
    Her
    :t
    heysel
    lthebest
    Me:okt
    hendon'
    twor
    ry,
    nowcomegi
    veme
    ahug
    Shestandsupandgiv
    emeahugbuther
    wholebodyfr
    eezesIi
    mmedi
    atel
    yletgoof
    her
    Me:
    sthandwaSam ur
    yt(
    myl
    ovear
    eyouok)
    Shej
    ustl
    ooksatmewi
    thoutbl
    i
    nki
    ng
    Me:
    Lenhl
    e
    Shesay
    snothi
    ng,
    Isnapmyf
    inger
    sandshe
    comesbackandl
    ookatmewitht
    ear
    yeyes
    Me:
    babewhat
    'swr
    ong?
    Shekeepsshaki
    ngherheadwitht
    ear
    s
    fl
    owi
    ngdownhermask, what
    'sgoi
    ngon?
    Me:*
    touchi
    nghershoul
    der
    s*t
    alkt
    ome
    pl
    ease
    Her
    :*wi
    pinghertear
    s*I
    '
    m sor
    ryaboutt
    hatI
    j
    ustsawsomet hi
    ng
    Me:
    youj
    ustsawwhat
    ?Wher
    e?
    Her:
    Ncami didsayI'
    l
    lseeunseenthi
    ngsso
    don'
    tworryaboutit
    ,i
    twasemot i
    onalIj
    ust
    havetocallncamiandfi
    ndoutwhatIhave
    todoyoucangonow
    Me:Ir
    eal
    lydon'
    tmindst
    ayi
    ngher
    ewi
    thy
    ou
    Icanj
    ustcal
    lK..
    Her:
    babet
    rustmeI'
    mfi
    nenowgoanddon'
    t
    f
    orgetmyicecr
    eam.
    Isighandki
    ssherhandthenl
    eav
    eev
    en
    thoughInol
    ongerfeel
    li
    kegoi
    ng.
    ~
    IgettoUncleSthe'
    shouseandhel
    ooksso
    nervousbutit
    'sunder
    standabl
    e
    "
    Lookwhatt
    hecatdr
    aggedi
    n"
    Il
    ooktowardst
    hestai
    rsandseeAunt
    Sel
    enalooki
    ngbeaut
    if
    ulasusual
    Her:
    areyougoi
    ngtostandupandgivemea
    hug?Orsitt
    her
    elooki
    ngli
    kealostcat
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    alostcatr
    eal
    l
    y?
    Ist
    andupandhugher
    Her:
    whydoy oulooklikeyourfi
    anceehas
    cal
    l
    edofftheweddi ng,i
    fshedidjustgi
    ve
    mehercontactstheweddi ngwil
    l beback
    onbytheendoft heday
    Me:sti
    ll
    extr
    aIsee,anddon'twor
    ryy
    oucan
    conti
    nuelooki
    ngforthebestdr
    esst
    owear
    Her
    :goodt
    hen
    Me:
    arey
    ouok?
    Iknowt
    hatt
    hismustber
    eal
    l
    yhar
    donher
    Her:
    *sighs*yeahI
    'm good,al
    soI'
    m st
    il
    lhur
    t
    bythefactthatyourunclecheat
    edonme
    butI'
    m alsohappyforhim Iknowhow
    muchhewant edachild*
    fakesasmil
    e*
    Uncl
    e:*
    walki
    ngdownthest
    air
    s*wher
    eis
    Khay
    awi t
    hWandil
    e?
    Me:*l
    ookingatmywr i
    stwatch*
    theyshould
    behereinaf ewmi nut
    esandy ouknowt hat
    Wandil
    emi ghtwalkoutt hemomenthe
    seesyoucausewhoknowsmay behi
    s
    mothertoldhim badthi
    ngsabouty ou
    Hi
    m:y
    oudoknowthatyouar
    eonl
    ymaki
    ng
    memorener
    vousr
    ight
    Me:
    I.
    ..
    "
    Fami
    l
    yI'
    m home!
    !!
    "shout
    sKhay
    a
    Uncl
    e:*
    freaki
    ngout
    *ohgodwhatdoIdo
    now?
    Aunt
    :St
    hembi
    sopul
    lyour
    sel
    ftoget
    her
    KhayashowsupwithWandi
    lewhofreezes
    themomenthisey
    eslandsatUncl
    e
    Khay
    a:okdudebefor
    eIint
    roducey
    oul
    et
    mehugmybr ot
    herfi
    rst
    HewalkstomeIst
    andupandwehugI
    can'
    tbel
    iev
    eImi
    ssedhi
    m,webreakt
    hehug.
    Khaya:
    lookaty
    ou*
    smi
    l
    es*
    looki
    ngal
    lsor
    ts
    ofhandsome
    Me:
    nxx,
    Wandi
    l
    e
    Hi
    sey
    esmov
    efr
    om uncl
    etome
    Hi
    m:MJr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    yeah,
    pleaset
    akeaseat
    .
    Het
    akesaseatwi
    thhesi
    tat
    ion.
    Uncl
    e:*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat*
    withoutwast
    ing
    anyt
    imeuhm I'
    m St
    hembisoMcKenzie
    *
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oatagai
    n*I
    '
    myourf
    ather
    Wandi
    l
    est
    andsupqui
    ckasl
    i
    ght
    ning
    Him:
    Readmyli
    psIDONOTHAVEA
    FATHER,
    Inev
    erhadoneandI
    '
    llnev
    erhav
    e
    one.
    Hethenstor
    msout,
    uncl
    etr
    iest
    ofol
    l
    owhi
    m
    butauntSst
    opshi
    m
    Aunt
    :l
    ethi
    m cal
    m downf
    ir
    st.
    Imi
    ghtaswel
    lasgobackt
    omyl
    ady
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t43~

    °
    MJ°
    IwalkoutandfindWandi l
    estil
    lbythe
    gate,
    probabl
    ywaiti
    ngforacabsi ncehe
    cameher ewit
    hKhay a,
    Ireall
    ywanttowalk
    passhim andsaynothi
    ngbutIcan' t.
    Me:
    youknowwhatyouj
    ustdi
    dwasnot
    mat
    uredri
    ght
    ?Forf
    ucksakesyouar
    e23
    Hi
    m:sowhatifI
    '
    m 23uh,wasIsupposet
    o
    j
    ustsay"
    ohoknicetomeetyoudad"where
    washefort
    hesepast23year
    s
    Me:that
    'saquesti
    onyoushoul
    dbeasking
    hi
    m notme, whydoyouthi
    nkmybr ot
    her
    broughtyouhereuh?Soyouanduncle
    couldsitdownandtal
    kli
    ketwogrownup
    people
    Hi
    m:uncl
    e?I
    sn'
    they
    ourf
    ather
    ?
    Me:no,
    uncl
    ewantedtot
    alkt
    oyoufi
    rst
    bef
    oreint
    roduci
    ngyout
    othewhol
    e
    family
    ,sot ellmethismani funcl
    edidn't
    wantany thingy odowi t
    hy ouwouldhebe
    theonet or eachouttoy ou?I'
    m notsaying
    gobacki nt hereandbeahappyf amil
    yal l
    I
    'm sayingi sthatgobacki nther
    eandhear
    him outli
    st entohissideofthestorythen
    tel
    lhimy our sandtheny oucandecidethere
    whethery oul ethi
    mi nyourli
    feornot.
    Hestandsst
    il
    lthi
    nki
    ngf
    orawhi
    le,
    nxhej
    ust
    needstomanupandgobacki
    nthere
    Hi
    m:di
    dhesendy
    out
    osayal
    lthoset
    hings
    t
    omejustt
    omakemecomebackin?
    Me:hehast heimpr essionthatyouare
    al
    readygone,I'
    m alsoonmywaybackhome
    nowandr eall
    ythinkcl ear
    lyaboutthi
    s,
    shar
    p.
    Iwal
    ktomycarleav
    inghi
    m standi
    ngt
    her
    e
    fi
    ght
    ingwi
    thhi
    sthought
    sprobably
    .
    Hi
    m:MJwai
    t!
    !
    Itur
    nandl
    ookathi
    m wi
    thmyey
    ebr
    ow
    rai
    sed
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    I'
    ll
    li
    stent
    owhathehast
    osay
    Me:
    ok
    It
    urnbackt
    omycar
    .
    Hi
    m:wai
    tar
    en'
    tyougonnagobacki
    n?
    Me:Il
    eftmywomenbackhomeI'm sur
    e
    shemissesmeri
    ghtnow*
    smir
    king*
    Him:*chuckl
    es*comeonwalkbackinwi
    th
    me,soy oucandriv
    emebackafter
    wards
    causeIwon'tsurvi
    veanot
    hert
    ri
    pwithyour
    brot
    her
    Ichuckl
    eandcloset
    hedoor,I
    'm gladhe's
    l
    ooseningup.
    ..
    .wewalkbackintogether
    andfindUncl
    eandAuntsti
    llseatedlooki
    ng
    sour,
    Khayai
    snother
    ehe'
    spr
    obabl
    yint
    he
    ki
    tchen.
    Me:
    wher
    e'sKhay
    a?
    Thei
    rheadsshoot
    sup,
    uncl
    ejustst
    areat
    Wandil
    e
    Aunt
    :att
    heki
    tchen
    Iknewi
    t
    Wandil
    e:l
    ookMrMcKenzieMJhasknocked
    ali
    tt
    lesensetomyhead,
    Iwil
    ll
    istentowhat
    youhavetosayandyou'
    l
    lal
    solistento
    whatIhavetosay.
    Uncl
    ejustnodsli
    keali
    ttl
    eboyaswetake
    ourseat
    s,Khay
    awalksinwit
    haful
    lpl
    ate
    Khay
    a:ohyoutwoar
    ebackuhm don'
    tmi
    nd
    me*t
    akinghi
    sseat
    *
    Me:
    coul
    dwespeedt
    hisupcausewhenI
    l
    eftLenhl
    ewasn'
    treal
    l
    yok
    Khaya:
    *hi
    smouthf
    ull
    wit
    hfood*
    whatwas
    wrongwit
    hher
    ?
    AuntS:
    siesKhay
    a,manner
    s
    Me:
    l
    aterbr
    ah,
    uncl
    e..
    Uncl e:fir
    stl
    ythanky ouf orcomi ng
    back, uhm asIwassay ingt hatIam your
    father ,
    Ididn'
    tknowt hatIhadasonIonl y
    foundoutaf ewweeksbackwi ththehel
    pof
    mynephewsher e...
    whent heyfir
    stcamet o
    meandt oldmet hattheysawsomeone
    whol ooksex act
    lyli
    kemeIdi dn'
    tpayto
    muchat t
    enti
    ont othem causepeopl edo
    l
    ookal ikeouttherebutt heygotmy
    attent i
    onwhent heyshowedmey our
    picturei .
    .
    Wandi
    l
    e:MJIt
    houghty
    oudel
    etedt
    he
    pi
    ctur
    e
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*seri
    ousl
    ywear
    egoi
    ng
    t
    otal
    kaboutt
    hepict
    urenow?
    Hi
    m:*
    rol
    l
    inghi
    sey
    es*
    cont
    inue
    Uncle:
    lucki
    lyKhayahaddoneabackgr
    ound
    checkony ouwithal
    lyourdet
    ail
    sand
    fi
    ndingoutwhoy ourmotheri
    sther
    ewasno
    doubtthatyouaremysonbutifyoudon't
    beli
    evesowecoul ddoaDNAt esti
    ngto
    proveso
    Me:
    i
    fitcomesbackposi
    ti
    vet
    henwhat
    ?
    Uncle:
    Idon'
    tknowabouthi
    m butinmyside
    Iknowthatiti
    slat
    enowbutIstil
    lwantto
    beinyourli
    feandmakeupforthelostt
    ime.
    Me:Wandilemindyou,
    uncl
    edi
    dn'
    tknowof
    yourexi
    stenceti
    l
    lafewweeksbacksoI
    don'
    tthi
    nky oushoul
    dbeangr
    yathim.
    Wandi
    l
    e: y
    esIknowt haty
    oudidn'
    tknowof
    myexi
    stencebecauseyoudi
    dn'twantme
    t
    oevenexist
    Uncl
    e:whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Wandi
    l
    e:di
    dn'
    tyoutel
    lmymothert
    oabort
    mewhenyoufoundoutshewaspr
    egnant
    wi
    thme?
    Uncl
    e:WHAT?
    !
    Wandi
    le:
    thatiswhyy oudi
    dn'
    tknowabout
    mecausey outhoughtsheabor
    tedmeri
    ght?
    Me:
    woahdudewat
    chi
    tnowt
    hati
    snott
    rue
    Wandi
    le:howwoul
    dyouknowt
    hat
    ?Wer
    e
    yout
    here?
    Me:
    I.
    ..
    Uncl
    e:MJ
    Aunt
    :noSt
    hewhatMJi
    ssay
    ingi
    str
    ue,
    we
    knowt
    haty
    ouwoul
    dnev
    erev
    erdot
    hat
    Wandil
    e:ofcourseallofyouwil
    lsidewit
    h
    hi
    m becausehe'sfami l
    ytoyouguy s,
    why
    shoul
    dIbelievehim overmymot her?
    Me:agai
    nifhedi
    dwhatyourmot hert
    old
    youwouldhebetheonereachi
    ngoutto
    you?
    Wandi
    l
    e:may
    bei
    t'
    sbesti
    fIl
    eav
    e*st
    andi
    ng
    up*
    Khaya:
    aibowaitl
    etmeswal low*he
    swall
    ows*whyar eyourunningawayfrom
    thetr
    uth?It
    'sobv
    iousthatyourmotherli
    ed
    toyou
    Wandi
    l
    e:ar
    eyoucal
    l
    ingmymot
    heral
    i
    ar?
    Khay
    a:i
    ftheshoef
    it
    s
    Wandi
    l
    e:*
    fumi
    ngwi
    thanger
    *wh.
    ..
    ..
    Me:looknoneedtobeangrydude,t
    osolve
    thi
    sonceandf oral
    lcal
    lyourmotherand
    giv
    ehert hi
    shouse'
    saddresstel
    lherto
    comeher eiti
    sanemergency.
    Hesitsdowndef
    eat
    edandt
    akesouthi
    s
    phone.
    ~
    °
    Tasha°

    Sof orthesepastweeksmeandKhay a
    havebeenhangi ngoutalotandIdon't
    knowhowi thappenedbutIt hi
    nkI'mfal
    li
    ng
    forhim andt omaket hematterworseor
    goodIdon' tknowheal sofeelsthesame,he
    tol
    dmey esterdaythatheli
    kesmeandhe
    knowt hatIhav eaboy f
    ri
    endsohesai dhe's
    goingtor espectt hatanddonotput
    pressureonmehe' sj
    ustgonnaletmedo
    mebutal sowant smet oknowt hathel i
    kes
    me.Idi dn'tsleept hewholenightthinki
    ng
    aboutthatandIhav efi
    nallygottoa
    decisi
    on, I'
    ll
    br eakupwi thNkosenhleand
    gi
    v eKhay aachancecausehonest lyKhaya
    gi
    v esmeat tentionmor ethanNkosenhl e
    does..
    .soI '
    m al r
    eadyathi shousetobr eak
    upwi t
    hhi m.
    Hi
    m:sowhyexact
    lyar
    eyouher
    e?CauseI
    di
    dn'
    tcal
    lyou
    Me:
    Nkosenhl
    etel
    lmewhatar
    ewe?
    Hi
    m:whatdoy
    oumean?
    Me: Ionl
    ycomeher ewheneveri
    tsuit
    syou,
    youdon' tbot
    hercalli
    ngmeorev entext
    ing
    meI '
    mtheonewhoal wayscall
    youand
    forceaconv er
    sationwit
    hy oucauseit
    alway sseemslikeyoudon'twanttotal
    kto
    meinotherwordsyoudonothaveti
    mefor
    me,t
    heonlyti
    mey ouhav
    ef ormeiswhen
    youwanttoblowsomesteam of
    f.
    ...
    soI
    'm
    goi
    ngtoaskagainwhatarewe?
    Hejustlooksatmewi
    thabor
    edf
    aceand
    saynothing
    Me:owokIthi
    nkit'
    sobvi
    ouswher
    ewe
    st
    andsopleasedelet
    emynumbersI
    '
    llal
    so
    dothesame*Ist
    andup*
    Hi
    m:whatar
    eyousay
    ing?
    Me:I
    '
    m sayingwearethr
    ough,
    wearedone
    whateveri
    tist
    hatwasgoingonbet
    weenus
    i
    tisover.
    Him:*standsup*l
    i
    stenher
    eyoudon'
    tgett
    o
    cal
    ltheshot sI
    'mtheonewhowil
    lsaywhen
    i
    tisov er
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    wel
    lIj
    ustcal
    l
    edt
    heso
    cal
    l
    edshot
    sITI
    SOVER.
    Him:wel
    lIguessyouai
    n'
    tgoi
    ng
    anywher
    e*smirks*
    Hissmi r
    ksendsbadchil
    l
    sallovermy
    body,It
    rytowalkawayfr
    om him buthe
    grabsmyar m andsl
    apsmesohar dmaking
    mef all
    onthecouch
    Hi
    m:Isai
    dyouai
    n'
    tgoi
    ngnowher
    e
    Me:*hol
    dingmycheek*
    nxxI
    '
    mleav
    ingt
    his
    housebeliev
    eme
    Hi
    m:wel
    lIguessy
    oul
    eav
    emenochoi
    ce
    Me:
    whata.
    .
    BeforeIcoul
    devenfini
    sht
    hatsent
    encehe
    giv
    esmeanot herhotsl
    apandri
    poffmy
    shir
    t
    Me:
    whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng?
    Hi
    m:maki
    ngsur
    eyoudon'
    tl
    eav
    ethi
    shouse.
    Heget sont opofmet hef uckdoeshet hink
    he'sdoing,Ifighthim ashet ri
    estouncl i
    p
    mybr aIusemyl egstopushhi m offme
    thenstandupr unningtothedoor ,
    asI'
    m
    abouttoopent hedoorhepul lsmeback
    withmyhai rIscr eam i
    npai nbutt hat
    doesn'tstophi m hekeepspul l
    ingmewi th
    myhai rupt hest airstohisr oom andt hr
    ow
    met ohisbedt henl ocksthedoorand
    comest owar dsmeIqui cklyjumpof fthe
    bed
    Hi
    m:doy ouknowhowmuchmoneyIget
    wi
    thjustbei
    ngwit
    hyou?
    Me:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Hi
    m:aboutt
    hef
    actt
    haty
    oucannotl
    eav
    e
    me
    Me:soy ou'
    vebeenusi
    ngmeal
    lthi
    sti
    me
    youpieceofshit
    .
    Idon' thowhegott omebutIhear danot her
    hotsl aponmycheekj ustasI 'm holdingmy
    bur ningcheekanot heronel andsonmy
    facemaki ngmef allonthef loor ,
    Istart
    screami ngoutl oudhopi ngandpr ayingthat
    someonehear smebuthedoesn' tcarehe
    star t
    ski ckingmeIscr eam i npai nashe
    cont inueski ckingmeal lovermybodyI
    bringmyhandst omyf acepr otecti
    ngi t
    ,he
    stopsoht hankgodIr emov emyhandson
    myf aceonl ytofindhimr emov inghi sbel t
    andhewhi psmewi thit,
    whydi dIcome
    her e..
    .aftersomet i
    mehest opsandpi cks
    meupt hent hr
    owsmeont hebedt hen
    takesof fmyski r
    thonest l
    yIhav eno
    strengt ht ofighthim,her ipsof fmypant yI
    tryt ofighthi m withthel it
    tl
    eener gyIhav e
    buti
    tispoi nt
    less,het akesoffhiscl
    othes
    whil
    edoingsoIt rytor ol
    lof
    fthebedbuthe
    qui
    cklygrabsmeandhol dmyhandsf i
    rmly
    whil
    eputtingpr essureonmyl egsusi
    nghis
    l
    owerbody
    Him:
    youarest
    uckwi
    thmeher
    efor
    everdo
    youhearme?
    Ispitsal
    iv
    at ohisfaceandhisfacetur
    ns
    redimmedi at
    ely
    , hefor
    cef
    ull
    yopenmyl egs
    usinghiskneeandt henheforcef
    ull
    yenter
    s
    me.
    ~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Nononononohowcanhe?Howcanhedo
    thi
    s?He'
    sfucki
    nrapi
    ngher
    ,f
    ir
    stti
    me,
    same
    daymeseeingthi
    ngsandt
    heyhavet
    obe
    l
    ikethi
    s..
    Wherethef
    uckisMJandKhay a
    wehavet ofi
    ndherf
    ast,
    whatifheendsup
    kil
    l
    ingher.
    ..
    MJrunsinandrushtome
    Him:babewhathappened?Arey
    ouokI
    coul
    dn'thearyoupr
    operlyov
    ert
    he
    phone,whyareyoucr
    ying?
    Me:
    wehav
    etof
    indher
    ?
    Khay
    a:f
    indwho?
    Me:Tasha,
    he'
    srapi
    ngherwehav
    etof
    ind
    her
    Khay
    a:WHAT?
    ?
    MJ:who'sr
    apingTashababeyouarenot
    makinganysense,
    pleasest
    opcry
    ingyou'
    re
    br
    eakingmyheart.
    Me:Ij
    ustsaw* hi
    ccup*Nkosiontopof
    Tasha*hiccup*rapi
    ngher,she'
    s
    scr
    eami ng*hiccup*beggi
    nghimt ost
    op
    MJhugsmewhi
    l
    ebr
    ushi
    ngmyback
    Hi
    m:cal
    m downwe'
    l
    lfi
    ndher
    Me:
    meandMJar
    ecomi
    ngwi
    thy
    ouguy
    s
    Hi
    m:nost
    ayher
    eIpr
    omi
    sewe'
    l
    lfi
    ndherok
    Inodasheletgoofmeandsnapshi
    s
    fi
    nger
    sinfr
    ontofKhayawhoseemstobe
    i
    nanotherworl
    d,hecomesback
    Khay
    a:Iknowwher
    ethi
    smot
    her
    fucker
    st
    ayslet
    'sgo.
    MeandMJt
    hej
    aguarl
    ookateachot
    her
    Me:
    makehi
    m pay
    Hef
    oll
    owst
    heguy
    sast
    heywal
    kout
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t44~

    °
    Nar
    rat
    ed°
    Khay aandbothMJ' sgeti
    nsideNkosenhl
    e'
    s
    yardeasil
    ysincethere'
    snosecurit
    y
    system,MJt hej
    aguarisn'
    tfocusedon
    anythingbutget
    ti
    nghi scl
    awson
    Nkosenhle.
    MJ:
    thi
    stoomuchangeri
    snotgoodf
    ory
    ou
    Khay
    a:buti
    t'
    sgoodf
    ory
    ou?
    MJ:
    youknowt
    hat
    'snotwhatImean
    Khaya:
    l
    et'
    sjustf
    indNat
    ashaandmakesur
    e
    she'
    sokbeforedeal
    i
    ngwitht
    hisni
    gga
    MJ:*
    looki
    ngathisbr
    other*
    youdonotj
    ust
    l
    iket
    hisgi
    rldoyou?Youloveher
    ?
    Khay
    a:nxxgetoutoft
    hewayy
    ou'
    rewast
    ing
    myti
    me
    MJ:
    Khay
    ayou'
    rei
    nlov
    eadmi
    tit
    Khay ajustpushesMJoutoft hewayand
    opent hedoorsi ncei tain'
    tlocked,the
    momentt heywal kinsidet heyheara
    screami ngfaintv oicecomi ngfrom upst ai
    rs
    theyallrunupst airs,MJt hejaguarget s
    upstairsfir
    stbutpacesupanddown
    waiti
    ngf ort heguy st ogett heresincet he
    doori slocked,assoonast heygett her
    e
    Khay akickst hedooropenandf ind
    Nkosenhl eont opofTashabutget soffher
    assoonast hedoorswi ngsopen, Tasha
    quicklygrabsNkosi 'sshi r
    tandcov erherself
    withit..
    .t
    hatsi ghtofTashawasenought o
    makeKhay alosei tbutbef orehecoul d
    evendosomet hingt oNkosenhl eMJt he
    j
    aguarj umpsonhi m andst ar
    tgiv i
    nghi m
    somedeepscr atchesal loverhisbody
    maki nghim scr eam mi ndy ouNkosenhl ei s
    naked,heev enbi teshi sr i
    ghtarm maki ng
    hi
    m scr
    eam ev
    enmor
    e
    Khay
    a:Ihav
    en'tdoneanyt
    hingt
    ohi
    m so
    whyishescreamingl
    iket
    his
    MJ:l
    ookatt
    hescrat
    chesonhi
    sbodyand
    t
    hatbl
    oodhe'
    slosi
    ng
    Khay
    a:y
    oumeant
    otel
    lmeMbal
    i
    'sj
    aguari
    s
    i
    nhere
    MJ:yeahnowt akecareofTasha,
    I
    'l
    ltake
    t
    hisguytothewar ehouse,
    don'
    tworryI
    won'
    tdoany t
    hingtohim
    Khayanodsandwal kst
    oTashawhoseems
    tobeinanotherdi
    mension,
    shehast
    otal
    l
    y
    zonedout.
    Khay
    a:Nat
    asha
    Tashajustl
    ookstheot
    herwayfeel
    ing
    ashamed,Khayatri
    est
    otouchherbutshe
    shi
    ftsawayfrom hi
    m
    Khaya:*
    painedvoi
    ce*pl
    easeNatashaletme
    hel
    py ouIwon'thur
    tyouplease*
    tear
    s
    thr
    eateni
    ngt ocomeout*
    Tashal ooksatKhay aamazedt hathe'sso
    sincere,shehasnev erseenKhay aliket his
    beforebutsheal soseespi t
    yonhi sf ace
    somet hingsher eallydoesn'tneedatt he
    moment ,shelooksatNkosenhl erolli
    ngon
    thef l
    oorscreami ngi nagonyl osingtomuch
    bloodbutdoesn' tf eel anypit
    yf orhi
    m
    i
    nst eadshef eel
    shat redandal sofeel li
    ke
    shedoesn' twantt obei nhispresence, she
    slowlywear stheshi rtshe'scov eri
    ngher sel
    f
    withignor i
    ngthef actt hatshe'
    si npai nand
    weakt henshet riest ost andupbutf alls
    backont hebed
    Khay
    a:l
    etmehel
    pyou*
    try
    ingt
    otouchher
    *
    Shest
    opshi
    m usi
    ngherhandandget
    sup
    again,
    shereachesinKhay a'
    spocketand
    takeouthiscarkey sKhayajuststandsst
    il
    l
    feel
    inghelpl
    ess.
    ..shestart
    swal ki
    ng
    towardsthedoorwhi chisrathert
    ohar df
    or
    hersincethepainisunbearable
    Khaya:
    atleastl
    etmecarryy
    outothecar
    pl
    ease,
    Ican'tbeartowat
    chyoui
    nsomuch
    pai
    npleaseNat asha.
    Tashast opst henlookatKhayathen
    nods,Khay awal kstohersl
    owlythenpi
    cks
    herupbr idalstyleandwalksoutwit
    hher
    l
    eavingthe2MJswi t
    hNkosenhle
    MJ:MJdamnt hatsoundswei
    rd,
    uhifyou
    canhearmerightnowIt hi
    nki
    t'
    senoughlet
    hi
    m bebefor
    ey oukill
    him.
    Fort
    unatelyMJt hej
    aguarheardhi
    m andhe
    obeys,
    themomenthewal ksawayfr
    om
    Nkosenhle,Nkosenhl
    epassesout
    MJ:yessesy
    oumessedhim upandI
    def
    ini
    tel
    ywon'tt
    ouchhi
    m hewil
    lrui
    nmy
    cl
    othes.
    Hecall
    shi
    sboystocomefetchNkosenhle
    whil
    eKhay
    aplacesTashaonthepassenger
    seat
    Tasha:mayIdr i
    vemyselfhomepleaseIjust
    wanttobeal oneyou'
    ll
    comef et
    chy ourcar
    l
    aterplease*
    tearsfl
    owingdownher
    cheeks*
    Khaya:
    I'
    m sorr
    ybutIcan'tdothat
    ,Natasha
    haveyouseeny ourbody?Ihavet
    ot akeyou
    toadoctorandy oucan'
    tdri
    vewhileyouare
    i
    nsomuchpai n
    Tasha:
    *shaki
    ngherhead*Idonotwantt
    o
    seeadoctorI
    'l
    lnur
    semy selfbackt
    oheal
    th
    Khay
    a:Na.
    ..
    Tasha:
    Khay
    aNO!
    !
    Khay
    a:*si
    ghs*
    okbutI'
    m dri
    vingy
    ouhome
    youwil
    lnotdr
    ivei
    nthi
    sstate.
    Heget
    sint
    hedr
    iver
    sseatandst
    art
    sthe
    i
    gni
    ti
    on.
    Tasha:Khayathi
    si snotthewayhome,I
    thoughtImadei tcleart
    hatIdonotwantt
    o
    gotot hehospit
    al
    Khaya:andIr
    espectt
    hat,
    I
    'mt aki
    ngyouto
    Mbaliyoucan'
    tbealonewhoknowswhat
    thoughtsar
    erunni
    ngony ourheadr
    ight
    now
    Tashajustsighsandsaynot hi
    ngal l
    theway
    toMJ'shouse,whent heygetthereKhaya
    carr
    iesherinsideMbalenhl
    est andsup
    qui
    ckasl i
    ghtningthemomentshesees
    Tasha
    Mbali
    :
    ohmygod*tear
    sfal
    ldown*you'
    reso
    weak,
    Khayawhydi
    dn'
    tyoutakehertothe
    hospi
    tal
    she'
    sweak
    Khay
    a:sher
    efusedt
    ogot
    othehospi
    tal
    Mbali
    :okt
    akehert
    othespar
    eroom I
    '
    m
    r
    ightbehi
    ndyou
    Khay
    anodsandt
    akeshert
    her
    e
    Mbali:
    *holdingontothecounter
    *Godgi v
    e
    mest r
    engt hIdidn'
    tknowthatIwil
    lhaveto
    usemypower sthi
    ssoonI'
    m notevensure
    whetheritwi l
    lworkornotbutgi
    veme
    str
    ength.
    Khay
    a:Ihav
    etogonow
    Mbal
    i
    :wher
    e'sy
    ourbr
    other
    ?
    Khay
    a:he'
    suhm he'
    s..
    Ilef
    thi
    m behi
    nd
    Mbal
    i
    :*r
    aisi
    ngherey
    ebr
    ow*
    Khay
    ahebet
    ter
    notbehar
    medi
    nanyway
    Khay
    a:he'
    snot
    ,tr
    ustme
    Mbalenhl
    enodsandgot othespareroom
    whereshef i
    ndsTashaintheinsuit
    e
    bathr
    oom insi
    dethebathtubcry
    ing,she
    getscl
    osertoherwanti
    ngt ohugherbut
    stopsher
    selfnotwanti
    ngt ohur
    ther,she
    kneel
    sdown.
    Tasha:
    *wi
    pinghert
    ear
    s*Khay
    awi
    l
    lnev
    er
    everl
    ookatmethesame
    Mbal
    i
    :youl
    ovehi
    m don'
    tyou?
    Tasha:
    Ido,
    butwhenhel
    ooksatmehewi
    l
    l
    seeabrokenwomenwhodatedaguy
    who'si
    nitformoney
    Mbal
    i:
    *bl
    i
    nki
    ngawayhert
    ears*
    showme
    wher
    eexact
    lyy
    ouarebr
    okenat
    Tasha:
    youknowt
    hati
    snotwhatImeant
    Mbal
    i
    :thenwhatdoy
    oumean?
    Tasha:
    I'
    m br
    okeni
    nsi
    de
    Mbali
    :andhowwil
    lKhay
    aseewhat'si
    nsi
    de
    youcausethel
    astt
    imeIcheckedI
    '
    mt he
    onewithpower
    shere
    Tasha:*chuckl
    es*
    Ishoul
    dhaveneverwent
    ther
    e,Ishouldhav
    eneverdat
    edhim
    Mbal
    i:
    youdidn'
    tknowthi
    ngswouldtur
    nout
    l
    iket
    hisandstopact
    ingst
    rongcr
    yital
    lout
    Tasha:
    cry
    ingwon'
    thel
    pmei
    nanyway
    Mbal
    i
    :andbot
    tl
    ingt
    hingsi
    nsi
    dewi
    l
    lhel
    p??
    Tashar
    emai
    nsqui
    et.
    Mbali
    :Tashadon'
    tforgett
    haty ouareal
    so
    human,i
    t'
    soktohav eamel tdown,j
    ustdon'
    t
    unpackandli
    vethere,
    Cryitoutandthen
    ref
    ocusonwher eyouareheadedwhi chis
    t
    obr
    ight
    erday
    s.
    Tasha:*
    looki
    ngatMbal
    i*t
    hanky ouMbal
    i f
    or
    cari
    ngsomuchf orme,
    evenmyownsi ster
    doesn'
    tcareaboutmethewayy oudoand
    I'
    l
    lholdontothosewor
    dst hankyou
    Mbali
    :noneedt
    ot hankme,nowletmetry
    t
    his*
    putti
    ngherhandsinsi
    dethebatht
    ub*
    Tasha:
    whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng?
    Mbal
    i
    :shhh
    Mbalenhl
    ecl
    osesherey
    esremembering
    hertr
    aini
    ngt
    henopensthem andf
    ocuses
    onthewater
    Mbal
    i
    :coul
    dyoul
    aydown
    Tasha:
    WHAT?Mbal
    iI'
    l
    ldr
    own
    Mbal
    i
    :yout
    rustmedon'
    tyou?
    Tashasi
    ghsandl
    aysi
    nthewat
    erf
    eel
    i
    nga
    sti
    ngysensati
    onaswat
    ergetsincont
    act
    withherwounds,
    Mbal
    imakessureshe
    removeswaterar
    oundTasha'
    sfacesoshe
    won'tdrown.
    Mbali
    :"GUARDI
    ANSOFTHEWATER
    ELEMENT,
    ICALLUPONYOU
    ASYOURNEW QUEENTOHELPME"
    Strangedr awingsst art
    sappear i
    ngon
    Mbal i
    '
    sbothar mst hent hewatert urnsir
    is
    blue,Tashaf eel
    sthewat ergett
    ingt i
    nglyshe
    tri
    est oopenherey esbutf ai
    lstoi t
    'sli
    ke
    theyar esealedwit hasupergl ue,shealso
    tri
    est ospeakbutal sofail
    sto..
    ..
    Mbal i
    start
    s
    feelingweakshet akesherhandsoutoft he
    wat erwhichr et
    urnst oitnormal colour,t
    he
    drawi ngsalsodisappear s
    Mbali
    :
    *weakl
    y*Tashay
    oucancomeout
    now
    Tashacomesoutgaspi
    ngf
    orai
    r
    Tasha:
    *breat
    hingheavy*Idon'
    tknowwhy
    youdidthatbutI
    'm nev
    erdoingitagai
    n
    Mbal
    i
    :howdoy
    ouf
    eel
    ?
    Tasha:
    outofai
    r
    Mbali
    :*
    rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    getoutoft
    he
    bat
    htub
    Tashaget
    soutandl
    ookatMbal
    icur
    iousl
    y
    Mbal
    i
    :howdoy
    ouf
    eel
    ?
    Tasha:whatd..
    .waitIdon'tfeelanypai
    n*she
    str
    etches*Idon'
    tfeelanypai n*
    shelooksat
    hersel
    f*wheredidt hebruisesgo?
    Mbal
    iweakl
    ysmi
    l
    esgr
    atef
    ult
    hatshedi
    dit
    Tasha:
    Mbal
    idi
    dyoudot
    his?
    Mbal
    i
    :*nods*
    nowwearsomet
    hingpl
    ease
    Tashajustat
    tacksherwit
    hahugmaki ng
    Mbaliwincei
    npain,
    sheletsgoofher
    Tasha:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Mbali
    :
    I'
    mjustweakIneedt
    orestandI
    '
    llbe
    f
    ine
    Tasha:
    yousur
    e?
    Mbal
    i:
    yeahnowletmegor
    estandy
    ou
    mustal
    sodothesame
    Tasha:*
    smil
    ing*
    okandt hanky
    ouso
    much,doyouperhapsknowhowtoalso
    easethepai
    ndownt here
    Mbal
    i
    :*st
    andi
    ngup*
    Idon'
    tthi
    nkso
    Tasha:
    yourbodyl
    ooksweakdogor
    est
    Mbal
    inodsandwalksoutslowlywit
    hher
    whol
    ebodyinpai
    n,
    ittakesherabout5
    mi nutestogettoMJ'sroom. .
    .shest
    andsin
    frontofthemi r
    rorandslowlytakesoffher
    clothesthenhertearsf
    alldownasshesees
    thebr ui
    sesthatwereonTasha' sbodyon
    herbody .
    .
    ~ɨ
    ռsɛʀt45~


    Fewhour
    sear
    li
    er¶

    °
    AtMcKenzi
    e'
    sHousehol
    d°

    Wandil
    e'
    smom freezesasherey
    esl andon
    St
    hembisoMcKenziethemanshef elli
    n
    l
    ovewith23yearsagowhoshestil
    lloves
    bythewaybutsheknowsverywellshe
    can'
    thav ehi
    m,helovesSel
    enanomat ter
    whatev enaf
    terhavi
    ngSelena'
    swomb
    destroy
    edhest i
    l
    lchoseherandwel lof
    coursenooneknowst hatexcepther,
    ifSthe
    fi
    ndsoutncnooneknowswhathe' ll
    dot o
    her.
    Wandi
    l
    e:ohmom y
    ou'
    reher
    e
    Khay
    a:doj
    oinusMi
    ssSmi
    th
    YeahWandi l
    e'
    smot heri
    snotmar r
    ied,at
    theageof47she'sstil
    lsi
    ngl
    e..
    .she
    hesit
    antl
    yjoi
    nthem wonderi
    nghow
    Wandilemethisfat
    herandalsowonder i
    ng
    howSt heknewhehadasoncauseshe
    knowsWandi l
    ewasn'ttheonewhol ooked
    forhi
    m.
    Khay
    a:af
    ter
    noon
    Wandi
    '
    smom:
    aft
    ernoon
    Sel
    enalooksatt
    hiswomenacr
    ossherwi
    th
    col
    deyes
    Wandi
    l
    e:somom I
    '
    mjustgonnagett
    oit
    ,w.
    ..
    MJ'
    sphonedi
    stur
    bst
    hem
    MJ:
    sor
    ry,
    Ihav
    etot
    aket
    his
    St
    he:
    feel
    free
    /
    /
    MJ:sthandwasey
    am'
    i
    nhl
    i
    ziy
    o(l
    oveofmy
    hear
    t)
    Lenhl
    e:*
    cry
    ing*b.
    .ab.
    .ehhee'
    sra.
    .
    MJ:
    *worr
    ied*Ican'
    theary
    ou,
    arey
    ouok?
    What
    'swrong?
    Lenhl
    e:i
    i
    'm no.
    .notook.
    .y
    MJ:
    *qui
    ckl
    yst
    andsup*
    I'
    m onmyway
    //
    Khay
    a:what
    'swr
    ong?
    MJ: Idon'
    tknowbutshe'
    snotok,
    she'
    s
    cr
    yingterr
    ibl
    y
    Khaya:I
    '
    m comingwit
    hyou,
    mybeaut
    if
    ul
    aunt
    *looki
    ngather
    *
    Sel
    ena:
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    ?
    Khay
    a:comeonwhat
    ..
    .
    Selena:
    i
    fyoudon'
    tsaywhaty
    ouwantnow
    thenIwon'
    tdoit
    MJ:
    you'
    l
    lfol
    l
    owbehi
    nd*
    wal
    ksout
    *
    Khaya:
    ohkcouldyour ecordt
    hiswhol
    e
    conver
    sati
    onasinst art
    ingnowIwantto
    hearever
    ythi
    ngmy self
    Sel
    ena:
    *rol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    okokgonow
    Khay
    a:Iwantt
    oseey
    oupr
    essr
    ecor
    dnow
    St
    he:
    Khay
    amar
    n
    Sel
    enapr
    essesr
    ecor
    donherphone
    Khay
    a:t
    hanks.
    Her
    unsoutt
    ohi
    scar
    .
    Wandi
    le:
    *cl
    ear
    inghi
    sthr
    oat
    *asIwasaski
    ng,
    mom whydon'
    tIknowmyfather
    ?
    Shestar
    tssweati
    ngasther
    oom becomes
    smal
    lerforher
    ,wi
    thSt
    hegiv
    ingheradead
    st
    are
    Wandi
    l
    e:mom ar
    eyouokay
    ?
    Shenodsnotsay
    ingany
    thi
    ng.
    St
    he:
    SpeakLi
    naMar
    n!!
    !*
    bangi
    ngt
    het
    abl
    e*
    Wandi
    l
    e:*pi
    ssedoff
    *don'
    tyoudar
    etal
    kto
    mymotherli
    kethat
    Sthe:
    NoWandil
    eyouneedtofacereal
    i
    ty,
    yourmot
    herl
    iedtoyou.
    ..
    23yearsagoI
    madeahugemi st
    akeI.
    ..
    Wandi
    l
    e:wowsot
    hati
    swhatIam?Ahuge
    mi
    stake?
    Sthe: youdi dn'tev enletmef inish*sighs*t he
    dayy ouwer econcei vedmeandmywi fe
    hadahugef ightt oapoi ntwher eIthought
    wewer egoi ngt odi vorceoneanot her ,my
    mist akewast hatIl eftthehousewi t hout
    hear i
    ngherout ,Iwasangr yandIneeded
    air
    ,somehowIendedupatsomecl ubwher e
    Imety ourmot her,Iwasdr unkbutIwas
    awar eofwhatwasɦaքքɛռɨ ռɢ, weuseda
    condom buti tbr okeandi nt hemor ni ngI
    tol
    dhert hatIwi l
    lgobuyamor ningaf t
    erpil
    l
    buty ourmot hert oldmenott owor rycause
    shehas" alr
    eady "tooki twhi cht urnsout
    shedi dn'tbutnowy ou'reher eandIwantt o
    bei nv olvediny ourlif
    ei fonlyy ouletmei n.
    Wandil
    e:mom i
    sthatt
    rue?Whathej
    ustsai
    d
    i
    sitt
    rue?
    Li
    na:
    *l
    ooki
    ngdown*
    it'
    str
    ue
    Wandile:why?Uh,whyli
    etome,i
    mpl antt
    he
    i
    deathatmyownf at
    herdi
    dn'
    twantme, that
    hehatedmet hemomenty out
    oldhi myou
    werepr egnant,
    hat
    edmet oapointwherehe
    event
    ol dy outoabortmeuh,
    why ?
    *getti
    ng
    emoti
    onal *
    Li
    na:
    forsel
    fi
    shr
    easonsf
    orgi
    vemeson
    Sthe:
    andwhatexact
    lydi
    dIeverdotoyou
    thatmadeyouhatemet oapointwher
    eyou
    tel
    lmysonsuchbadt hi
    ngsaboutme
    Li
    na:BECAUSEYOUCHOSEHER!*poi
    nti
    ng
    atSelenawho'
    scool
    asacucumber*
    St
    he:
    whowasIsupposet
    ochoose?You?
    Weweren'
    tev
    endati
    ng
    Li
    na:
    evenso,
    youwer
    esupposet
    ochoose
    me
    St
    he:
    andwhywoul
    dIdot
    hat
    Li
    na:
    exhi
    bitA*
    poi
    nti
    ngatWandi
    l
    e*
    Sthe:
    soIwassupposet ochooseyouover
    mywi feforachi
    ldthatIdi
    dn'
    tknow
    exist
    ed,eveni
    fIdi
    dknowaboutWandileI
    wasgoi ngtobeinhisli
    fewhi
    lewit
    hmy
    wife
    Lina:
    that
    'soneofthereasonsIdi
    dn'ttel
    l
    youaboutWandilecausey ouweregoingto
    playhappyfamil
    ywithyourbarr
    enwi f
    e
    Sel
    enafreezesandtear
    sactqui
    ckly
    ,whi
    le
    Wandil
    elooksatthewomenheknowsas
    hi
    smom butf eel
    sli
    kehenolongerknows
    her
    ,t
    hemot herheknowsissweetand
    l
    ovi
    ngnott hi
    scoldandmean.
    Sthe:
    *get
    ti
    ngangr
    y*nowy
    ou'
    recr
    ossi
    ngt
    he
    l
    ine
    Selena:
    *wipi
    nghert
    ear
    s*wai
    thowdoy
    ou
    knowI '
    m bar
    ren?
    Li
    narunsoutofwordsandlooks
    ev
    ery
    wherebutnotthepeopleshe'
    ssi
    tt
    ing
    wi
    th,
    Sthenoti
    cest
    hat.
    St
    he:*
    looki
    ngst
    rai
    ghtather
    *sheaskedy
    ou
    aquesti
    on
    Li
    na:uhshe'
    soldand..
    .uhdoesn'
    thavea
    chi
    ldyetsoIassumed*shel
    iester
    ri
    bly
    *
    Sthebangsthet
    abl
    eandst
    andsupwal
    ki
    ng
    towar
    dsLina.
    St
    he:
    Howdoy
    ouknowmywi
    fecan'
    thav
    e
    ki
    ds?
    Li
    na:
    *scar
    ed*
    Ijustt
    oldy
    ..
    .
    St
    he:
    LINATHIHOW THEFUCKDOYOU
    KNOW THAT??
    Li
    na:*
    trembl
    ingwit
    hfear
    *the..
    themaidwho
    onceworkedfory
    ou.*
    swallowssali
    va*
    Sthe:
    don'
    tyoudar
    eliet
    ome,themai
    ddi
    dn'
    t
    knowthatmywifecan'
    thav
    ekids
    Li
    na:I
    ..
    Ipai
    dhertocrushsomepi
    l
    lsi
    nher
    dr
    inkstodest
    royherwomb
    Wandi
    &St
    he:
    YOUDI
    DWHAT?
    ?
    Selenastandsupandrunsupst
    air
    swi
    th
    tearsrol
    l
    ingdown..
    ..
    .
    ~
    °
    AtTheWar
    ehouse°

    Nkosenhl
    eisti
    eduponanelectr
    onicchai
    r
    ohandhe'swet,
    Khayasai
    dhewantshimt o
    feel
    theenti
    reel
    ect
    ri
    cit
    yfl
    owinginhim.
    Khay
    a:*
    slappi
    nghi
    m*ebabawakeupt
    hisi
    s
    notahot
    elory
    ourbedr
    oom
    Nkosiawakeslooki
    ngathisenv i
    ronment
    thenhi
    seyeslandsonKhay aandMJand
    alsof
    eelst
    heunbearabl
    epai nfrom hi
    s
    woundsthatMJt hej
    aguarleftonhisbody
    Nkosi
    :
    whot
    hef
    uckar
    eyou?
    Khaya:t
    heonest
    hathavearr
    angedyourtr
    ip
    tohell
    causeobv
    iousl
    ythat
    'swher
    ey ou'
    re
    goi
    ng
    MJ:nowfir
    stthi
    ngsfi
    rsty
    ouar
    egoi
    ngt
    o
    answerev
    eryquest
    ionweaskok
    Nkosi
    :
    andwhati
    fIdon'
    t
    Khay
    a:ohhal
    l
    owme*
    bowi
    ng*
    Hewalkstotheswit
    choftheelect
    ronic
    chai
    randfl
    ipsitonf
    or3secondswhi chis
    enought
    omakeNkosi feelthepai
    nthatis
    moretocomeifhedoesn'tcooper
    ateand
    swi
    tchi
    tof
    f.
    Khay
    a:di
    dyouf
    eel
    that
    ?Orshoul
    dI.
    .
    Nkosi
    :Ifel
    titpl
    ease,
    I
    'l
    lanswery
    our
    quest
    ions.
    MJ:good,
    fir
    stquest
    ion,
    whyr
    apey
    our
    gi
    rl
    fr
    iend?
    Nkosi
    :
    she'
    snotmygi
    rl
    fr
    iend
    MJ:
    Khay
    a
    Khayafl
    i
    psont heswitch,
    Nkosiscr
    eamsin
    pai
    nfeel
    ingli
    kehisbrainisbei
    ngtakenout
    ofhi
    shead,Khayafl
    i
    psi toff
    MJ:
    you'
    renotanswer
    ingmyquest
    ion
    Nkosi:
    *cryi
    ng*i
    want
    edt
    omakesur
    eshe
    doesn'
    tleave
    MJ:byr
    apingher?AndIthoughty
    ouj
    ust
    sai
    dsheisn'
    tyourgi
    rl
    fr
    iendsowhywoul
    dn'
    t
    y
    ouwanthert
    oleav
    e?
    Her
    emai
    nsqui
    et
    MJ:
    Khay
    a
    Nkosi
    :
    okokI
    '
    llt
    alk
    MJ:
    ohy
    ouwi
    l
    l,
    Khay
    a
    Khayafl
    ipst
    heswit
    chonandst
    ret
    chesf
    or
    2minut
    esthenf
    li
    psitof
    f
    MJ:oky
    ouweresaying?
    andhur
    ryupmy
    womeniswai
    ti
    ngformeathome
    Nkosi
    :
    becauseIwasear
    ningal
    otofmoney
    wit
    hbeingwit
    hher
    MJ:
    y..
    Khay
    afl
    i
    psont
    heswi
    tchoutofanger
    Khaya:
    *angry
    *he'sbeenusi
    ngher
    ,how
    coul
    dhe? *
    pacingupanddown*
    MJ:
    ify
    oudon'
    tfl
    i
    pthatswi
    tchof
    fhe'
    s
    gonnadi
    eandwewon'
    tgetanswer
    s
    Hef
    li
    psi
    tof
    fleav
    ingNkosi
    outofbr
    eat
    h
    MJ:I
    '
    m giv
    ingyou10secondstocatchyour
    br
    eat
    hthenyoutel
    luswho'spayi
    ngy outo
    bewi
    thNatashaandwhy?t
    imestart
    snow
    Af
    ter10seconds
    MJ:
    we'
    rel
    i
    steni
    ng
    Nkosi:
    someguynamedNj abul
    obecausehe
    didn'
    twantNat
    ashat ogetbackwithher
    ex,hegavemestr
    aighti
    nstruct
    ionstonot
    l
    etherleaveme
    MJ:whoi sthi
    sexy ouspeakof
    fandwhy
    wouldn'
    tthisNjabul
    oguywantthem t
    oget
    backtogether
    ?
    Nkosi
    :
    Idonotknowt
    heexandIdon'
    tknow
    MJ:
    fool
    ,
    nxwher
    ecanwef
    indt
    hisNj
    abul
    o
    Her
    emai
    nssi
    l
    ent
    MJ:
    okI'
    m doneher
    eKhay
    a,I
    '
    llseey
    ou
    t
    omorr
    ow
    Khaya:
    tomor
    row?
    Ihavear
    oom I
    nyour
    housei
    ncaseyouhav
    efor
    got
    ten
    MJ:youwoul dn'tdar
    ecomet omyhouse
    wi
    th"blood"alloveryouandalsosmel
    l
    ing
    "
    blood"whil
    eLenhl eisar
    ound
    Khay
    a:*
    smi
    rki
    ng*
    butI
    '
    m cl
    eanandIsmel
    l
    amazi
    ng
    MJ:webothknowwheny oul
    eav
    et hi
    splace
    youwon'tbeeit
    herofthose
    t
    hings*
    chuckli
    ng*soI'
    l
    l seeyoutomorrow
    MJwal
    ksout
    .
    Khaya:wellwel
    lwelli
    t'
    sjusty
    ouand
    me,fi
    rstl
    yyouwillt
    ellmeNjabul
    o'
    saddr ess,
    secondlyyouwill
    eatyourownshitcauseI
    cansmel
    lthaty
    ouhav
    eshi
    tt
    edy
    our
    sel
    f
    Nkosi
    :
    youcanr
    atherki
    l
    lme
    Khay
    a:ohnomany
    ouwi
    l
    leaty
    ourshi
    t.
    .
    MJgetsathishouseandwalksstr
    aightt
    o
    hi
    sroom andfi
    ndsLenhl
    ereadingabook
    MJ:
    heybabe
    Lenhl
    e:*
    looki
    ngathi
    m*hey
    MJ:
    howar
    eyou?
    *si
    tt
    ingnextt
    oher
    *
    Lenhl
    e:uhhI
    '
    m good
    MJ:
    andNat
    asha?
    Lenhl
    e:she'
    scompl
    etel
    yfi
    ne
    MJ:goodandIcan'
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ousentMj
    to
    comewithus
    Lenhl
    e:Ihadt
    omakehi
    m payi
    nsomeway
    andmybuddyher
    e*br
    ushi
    ngMj
    '
    shead*
    washappytohel
    p
    MJ:*shaki
    nghi
    shead*yester
    dayyouspoke
    aboutamassageandrightnowI'
    mi nthe
    moodsol ayonyourst
    omachmyl ady
    Lenhl
    e:uhnahI
    '
    m cool
    now
    MJ:
    yousur
    e?
    Lenhl
    e:y
    eah
    MJ:
    okt
    henl
    etmet
    akeashower
    .
    Hestandsupandwal kstothebat
    hroom,
    Lenhlesi
    ghsandweaklygetsofft
    he
    bed..
    sheacci
    dental
    lytr
    ipsonherownleg
    andfall
    swhil
    escreamingalit
    tl
    e,MJruns
    outofthebat
    hroom toher
    MJ:
    whathappened?
    Lenhl
    e:Ij
    ustt
    ri
    pped
    MJ:
    ohsor
    ryl
    etmehel
    pyouup.
    Hehol
    dherwai
    stbef
    oreLenhl
    ecoul
    dsay
    nomaki
    ngherwi
    nceinpai
    n
    MJ:
    *l
    ett
    inghergo*what
    'swr
    ong?
    Lenhl
    e:*
    standi
    ngup*
    not
    hing
    Het
    ouchesherwai
    stshewi
    nceagai
    n
    MJ:
    takeof
    fyourt
    op
    Lenhl
    eshakesherheadno
    MJ:
    *fi
    rmv
    oice*
    Mbal
    enhl
    e
    Lenhlesighsandtakeof
    fhertopr
    eveal
    i
    ng
    thebruises,
    MJf r
    eezesf
    eeli
    nganger
    buil
    dingup
    MJ:*
    speaki
    ngt
    hroughhi
    steet
    h*whodi
    d
    t
    his?
    Lenhl
    e:noone
    MJ:
    Mbal
    enhl
    e
    Lenhle:
    ser
    iousbabenoonedidthi
    stomeI
    onlyusedmypower stoheal
    Tashaandall
    ofherbrui
    sesdisappear
    edfr
    om herbody
    andappearedtomi ne
    MJ:waitwai
    twaitsoyoumeantot
    ell
    me
    t
    hateveryt
    imeyouhealsomeonet
    hei
    rpai
    n
    wi
    llcometoyou?
    Lenhl
    e:y
    eah
    MJ:theni
    t'
    soff
    ici
    aly
    ouwi
    l
    lnev
    erev
    erheal
    any
    oneagain
    Lenhl
    e:but
    ..
    MJ: Mbal enhleincasey ouhav en'
    tnoti
    ced
    thebruisesal loveryougoov ertheretothe
    mirrorandy oualsocan'texpectmet obe
    okwi t
    ht his,Icannotall
    owy out ogethurt
    byjustonl yhelpingnoo,thi
    swast hefir
    st
    ti
    meandal solastam Iclear
    ?
    Lenhl
    e:but
    ..
    MJ:
    Am ICl
    ear
    ?
    Lenhl
    enodsandMJpicksherupand
    pl
    acesherbackont
    hebed.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t46~

    Li
    na:
    for
    giv
    ememychi
    l
    d
    Wandi:
    for
    giv
    eyou??Tellmewhoar
    eyou?
    Causeyouaredef
    ini
    tel
    ynott
    hewomen
    whorai
    sedme
    Li
    na:
    i
    t'
    sst
    il
    lmepl
    easef
    orgi
    veme
    Wandi:y
    oufil
    l
    edmyheadwi thnot
    hingbut
    l
    ies,
    Ihavel
    ongedforafatherfi
    gur
    einmy
    l
    ifemywholeenti
    reli
    fe,
    youwouldseehow
    devastatedIwoul dbeon"bringy ourfather
    toschool day"inst
    eadoftell
    ingmeabout
    myf atheryoucont i
    nuedtofill
    myheadwi t
    h
    l
    iesy oucontinuedtofil
    lmyhear twith
    hatr
    edf orsomeonewhodi dn'tknowIev en
    exi
    sted,allt
    hatmat t
    eredtoy ouwasy our
    agendaIdon' tknowwhati twasf orbuty ou
    nevercaredaboutmyf eel
    ingsatal l
    Li
    na:
    *cr
    ying*
    Idi
    dIst
    il
    ldo
    Wandi:NOYOUDI DN'
    T!!i
    fyoudidyouwoul
    d
    havetoldmeaboutmyf at
    heryouwould
    havetoldhi
    m aboutmeandwor seyou
    dest
    royedsomeone'swomb
    Li
    na:Ij
    ustwantedSt
    het oleav
    eher ,
    thenI
    wouldhavetol
    dhim aboutyouthenhe
    wouldhavecametomeandf orgotabout
    her
    .
    Wandi
    :
    arey
    ouhear
    ingy
    our
    sel
    f?Ishoul
    dn'
    t
    havedefendedyoubackattheMcKenzie
    householdIshoul
    dhavelethi
    m slap
    you,
    youknowwhatI '
    m outofhere*t
    urni
    ng
    faci
    ngthedoor*
    Li
    na:*hol
    dinghi
    shand*
    pleasedon'
    tl
    eav
    e,
    I
    'l
    l
    ...
    .
    Wandi
    :
    *yanki
    nghi
    shand*
    goodby
    eLi
    nat
    hi
    Hewal
    ksoutl
    eav
    inghermot
    hercr
    ying.
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Wellncamidi
    dsayt hebrui
    seswil
    lfade
    awayafter3daysso2day slef
    tIguess,MJ
    i
    sstil
    lnotokwit
    hal lt
    hebrui
    sesallovermy
    bodyyoucouldactual
    lyseetheangeron
    hi
    sfacewhenher ubsmybodywi t
    hsome
    oi
    ntment.
    Tasha:
    arey
    ousur
    eyou'
    reok?
    Ihaven'
    ttol
    dheraboutt
    heconsequences
    ofheali
    ngherandIwon'
    ttel
    lher
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    mfi
    nedon'
    twor
    ry
    Her:
    I'
    m notbuy
    ingt
    hatbutIwi
    l
    llety
    ou
    be,
    andthankyousomuchagain
    Me:yohbabeyou'
    vebeent
    hanki
    ngmesi
    nce
    yest
    erdayi
    t'
    senoughnow
    Her
    :*gi
    ggl
    es*
    Iwi
    l
    lst
    opf
    ornow.
    Khay
    awal
    ksi
    n
    Khay
    a:mor
    ningl
    adi
    es
    Me:
    i
    tisal
    ready1pm Khay
    a
    Khaya:Iwokeupanhouragosoi
    t'
    sst
    il
    l
    morningtome
    Me:what
    ever,
    anywayMJi si
    nthest
    udyfor
    somereasonhedidn'
    twantt
    ogotothe
    of
    fi
    ce
    Him:*chuckl
    es*y
    ou'
    rethereason,
    *l
    ooksat
    Tasha*howar eyouholdi
    ngup?
    Tasha:
    I'
    m ok,
    uhMbal
    iIshoul
    dgetgoi
    ng
    Me:
    okl
    etmewal
    kyouout
    Khay aopenshismouthbutdoesn'
    tsay
    anythingIwonderwhatiti
    shewantsto
    say,heshakeshisheadandwalktothe
    studywhileIwalkTashaout.
    Me:
    whyar
    eyoushut
    ti
    nghi
    m out
    ?
    Tasha:
    I'
    m not
    .
    Me:
    ser
    iousl
    y?
    Her
    :i
    t'
    sjustt
    hatuh.
    Me:
    j
    ustwhat
    ?
    Her
    :hesawmeget
    ti
    ngr
    aped
    Me:
    so?
    Her
    :Ij
    ustf
    eel
    soashamed
    Me:*sighing*
    youtwoneedtositdownand
    tal
    kaboutt hi
    s,youbothl
    oveeachother
    obviouslysojustsi
    tdownandtalkstop
    runningawayf r
    om him.
    Her
    :*si
    ghi
    ng*
    I'
    ll
    try
    Me:
    don'
    ttr
    yjustsi
    tdownandt
    alkok
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    ok,
    thanksgoodby
    e
    Me:
    byebabe.
    WehugandIwalkbackinsi
    deandf
    indMJ
    dr
    inkwat
    erf
    rom awaterbott
    le
    Hi
    m:shoul
    dn'
    tyouber
    est
    ing
    Me:
    I'
    m notsi
    ckMJ
    Hi
    m:Iknowy
    ou'
    renotbuty
    ourwhol
    ebody
    i
    sinpain
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    lrestt
    oni
    ghtandt
    omor
    rowIhav
    eto
    meetupwi
    tht
    heguy
    s
    Hi
    m:*
    pout
    ing*
    butbabey
    ou'
    rei
    npai
    n
    Me:*giggli
    ng*you'
    reonl
    ysayi
    ngt hatcause
    youdon' twantmet ogo,wel
    ltoobadcause
    I
    'm seeingtheguystomorrowandI '
    m
    t
    hinkingofgoingbackt oSi
    pho'sapartment.
    Hi
    m:what
    ?Why
    ?
    Me:wear
    enotmar
    ri
    edy
    etsomest
    ayi
    ng
    her
    eiswrong
    Hi
    m:but
    ..
    .
    Me:
    nobut
    s
    Hi
    m:Ij
    ustdon'
    tgetwhyyouhav
    et ol
    eav
    e
    whenyou'
    l
    lbeheremostoft
    hetime
    Me:
    that
    'sbet
    tert
    hancohabi
    ti
    ng
    Him:ohokthen,andsti
    llnocl
    ueonwhoi
    s
    supposet
    ot akeoffyourmask?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    no
    Hi
    m:Imi
    sski
    ssi
    ngy
    ou*
    maki
    ngasappy
    f
    ace*
    Me:
    meandy
    oubot
    h
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Tom:myman!!
    *brohuggi
    nghim*NewYor
    k
    hasbeent
    reat
    ingyougoodIsee
    Zugo:
    obv
    iousl
    y,l
    ookathi
    m he'
    sgl
    owi
    ng
    Athi
    :comeonZugoamandoesn'
    tgl
    ow*
    bro
    hugs'hi
    mtoo*wher
    e'sChr
    is
    Chr
    is:
    *wal
    ki
    ngi
    n*I
    '
    mri
    ghther
    e,l
    ookaty
    ou
    shi
    nni
    ng
    Athi
    :
    agh*t
    heyalsobr
    ohug*sohowhav
    e
    youguysbeen
    Tom:well
    onmysideIain'
    tcomplai
    ningand
    Chr
    islear
    ntoknockyoucan'
    tjustwalki
    n
    myhouseasifyouownit
    At
    hi:
    sti
    l
    lthesameTom uh?
    Zugo:
    he'
    l
    lnev
    erchanget
    hisone
    At
    hi:
    meaninghest
    il
    ldoesn'
    thav
    ea
    gi
    rl
    fr
    iend.
    Zugo&Chr
    is:
    obv
    iousl
    y
    Athi
    :
    ishoul
    dhav
    eknown,
    whatabouty
    ou
    two
    Zugo:
    wel
    lI'
    m st
    il
    lwi
    thZ'
    yanda*
    smi
    l
    es*
    At
    hi:
    you'
    reev
    enbl
    ushi
    ngeh*
    laughs*
    Zugo:
    l
    aughi
    t'
    scool
    Chr
    is:
    I'
    m st
    il
    lsi
    ngl
    etoo
    At
    hi:
    whathappenedt
    oMi
    nny
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    didn'
    twor
    kout
    At
    hi:
    Iheary
    ouuhm soo.
    ..
    Tom:
    sor
    ryman
    At
    hi:
    forwhat
    ?
    Tom:
    wef
    ail
    ed
    At
    hi:
    youmeant
    otel
    lmet
    hat
    ..
    Zugo:
    she'
    sinl
    ovewi
    thsomeguy
    ,sor
    rybr
    ah
    At
    hi:
    *si
    ghs*
    it'
    scool
    Tom:vel
    evel
    ewhat
    'st
    hest
    orybet
    weeny
    ou
    two?
    At
    hismil
    esatthet
    houghtofwhenhewas
    st
    il
    lwi
    thTasha
    Tom:youseewhyIdon'
    twanttof
    all
    inl
    ove,
    I
    don'
    twanttobesmil
    ingl
    ikeacol
    dcowI
    meanlookatAthi
    .
    Theyal
    ll
    augh.
    At
    hi:
    somedayy
    ouwi
    l
    lfal
    li
    nlov
    eandy
    ou
    wi
    l
    lhav
    ethegl
    i
    mpseofwhatwef
    eel
    Tom:
    Iwi
    l
    lnev
    er
    Athi
    :y
    oucansayt
    hatbutIst
    il
    lhav
    ehope
    fory
    ou
    Tom r
    oll
    shi
    sey
    es
    Athi:any wayTeewasmyhi ghschool
    sweet hear t
    *smi l
    es*Iwasdoi nggr ade12
    shewasdoi nggr ade11whenwest art
    ed
    dating, andwhenIst art
    edhi tti
    ngonherI
    didn'texact l
    ylikeherIwasj ustfulf
    il
    li
    ngthe
    bett hatmeandmyf ri
    endsmade, shewas
    thenewgi r
    latschool sowemadeabeton
    whowi llfuckherf i
    rstandt rustmewhenI
    sayi twasn' teasytogethershe' sjustuh
    whati st hewor dahchal lengingandt hat
    mademef allf
    orherbef oreIcoul devenget
    heraf teraweekoft ryi
    ngt ogetr idofthe
    feeli
    ngsIhadf orherIreali
    zet hatIcan'tso
    Iwentbackt otheguy sandtoldthem I'
    m
    offthebetandt heyal soshoul
    dst ayaway
    from her
    ,t
    heypickedupt hatIl
    ikedherso
    theybackedoffbesi desmyst epbrother
    NjabuloakaNjbst hatguyi sanitchthat
    won'tgoaway ,anywayaf terabout2
    mont hsTashaandIdat edobviouslyaft
    er
    comi ngcl
    eanaboutt hebet
    Tom:andshesti
    l
    ldat
    edy
    ou?NoIwi
    l
    lnev
    er
    under
    standLov
    e
    Athi
    :y
    ouwill
    trustme,soourrelat
    ionshi
    p
    wasnothi
    ngbutblissful
    ,var
    sit
    ytimecame
    forme
    Tom:ahht
    hecheat
    ingphaset
    oobadIdon'
    t
    hav
    epopcorn
    Zugo:
    shutupTom
    At
    hi:
    fory
    ouri
    nfor
    mat
    ionTom Idi
    dn'
    tcheat
    onher,
    shewasalsoafr
    aidofthesame
    thi
    ngbutIassur
    edherthatIwoul
    dnever
    cheatonherandIdi
    dn'
    t
    Tom:
    youdi
    dn'
    t?
    Zugo&Chr
    is:
    TOM!
    !
    Tom:
    okokI
    '
    llshutup
    Athi:
    *chuckl
    es*ti
    mewentbysheal socame
    tostudyatUJsheact uall
    ywant edtogot o
    WitsbutWi t
    sacceptedheri nacour sethat
    shedi dn'
    twantsheendedupcomi ngtoUJ
    andIcal l
    edthatFat
    e*smiles*our
    rel
    ati
    onshipwentwel l
    weekst urnedinto
    mont hs,monthstur
    nedintoy ear sandour
    l
    ov eforeachotherdi
    dn'tfadet hen3y ears
    ago
    Tom:ahht
    hey
    earwhenwebecamet
    he5
    amigos
    Athi:
    yeahandatt hatsamedayImety ou
    guyswhenIwentbackt omyapar t
    mentI
    foundTeet her
    ejustchil
    li
    ngIjoinedherand
    wegoof edaroundt henoutofnowhereshe
    tol
    dmeshewasr eadythatcamet omeas
    asurprisebutIdon'twanttoli
    eIwasal so
    excit
    edphelaIhadbeenst arvi
    ngf ory
    ears
    Tom:
    hol
    dup.
    .
    Zugo:
    Tom dude
    Tom:noIhavetoaskthi
    s,soyouwerewith
    hernotcheat
    ingonherbeingtheper
    fect
    guywhenshewasst ar
    vingyou?
    At
    hinods
    Tom:
    howl
    ongdi
    dyout
    wodat
    eagai
    n?
    At
    hi:
    5year
    s
    Tom:*
    hiseyesout*youdatedfor5year
    s
    butdi
    dn'
    teatthatcake?Andyouexpectme
    t
    ofal
    li
    nlov
    e
    Athi :
    onedayy ou'l
    lunderst andt hatsome
    thingsar ewor thwai t
    ingf or..
    .soy eahand
    thef actt hatIwasherf ir
    stmademev owto
    my sel ftoal way sl
    ov eherandcher ishheri n
    ever yway ,t
    henextdayIr eceiv edbadnews
    thatst epmot herdiedonacaracci dent
    appar entlyonherwayt oseeme, Njabulo
    didn' thandl eitwellheev enbl amedmef or
    herdeat hsay ingthatifonl yIdi dn'tcallhis
    mot hert ocomeov ershewoul dn'thav e
    diedIt oldhim Ididn'tcallherbuthedi dn't
    believ eme, hisexactwor dswer e"I'
    m goi ng
    tomakesur ey oulosetheoney oul ove
    deepl yforever"Iquicklyfiguredoutt hathe
    wasspeaki ngaboutTeesoIt ol
    dhi mt o
    stayawayf rom herandhesai dhewon' t
    hur therIshoul dn'
    twor rybuthe' l
    lmake
    sur eIl oseher ,he'
    stheonewhoconv inced
    dadt ogi v emet he3y eartenderi nNew
    York, Inev erwant edt ogot her ebutt his
    tenderwasv eryimpor tant,soImadea
    promi set oTeet hatI '
    llvisi
    tandsomet i
    mes
    she'llcomev isit
    ...Ileft,
    whenIgott oNew
    YorkIcal ledherbutshedi dn'tanswerI
    call
    edsomanyt i
    messheendeduppi cking
    upt hephonesay i
    ngNj abulot oldher
    every t
    hingIshoul dl eav eheral onethenshe
    droppedt hecal landbl ockedme, sti
    llthis
    dayIhav enoi deawhatl i
    esNj abulot old
    her,
    ev enaf tershebl ockedmeIkeptt abs
    onherj ustt omakesur eshe' sf i
    netillI
    comebackaf ter3mont hssoIcoul dt al
    kto
    her,
    aweekbef oret hose3mont hscoul d
    endTeewasadmi ttedt othehospi tal she
    miscar riedduet ost ressIdi dn'tevenknow
    shewaspr egnant, ont hatdayImad
    anot herv owt omakesur eImakeNj abulo
    paybecauset hisisal lhisf ault,
    Teedi dn't
    sti
    lldoesn'twantany thingt odowi th
    me,shedi dn'tgivemeachancet ot alkt
    o
    hersoaf terthatInev ercamebackher eI
    want edtogiv eherspace, Ihat edtheper son
    shet ur
    nedt oobecauseofNj abulo's
    l
    ies,whenshest arteddat i
    ngIpani cked
    causeIst il
    lhopedt hatwecoul dwor kus
    outonlytof indoutt hat ,
    thatguyshewas
    dati
    ngwaswor kingf orNj abul othatwhyI
    want edyouguy stost allherf orthesef ew
    weeksj ustunt i
    lIretur n, Ireallyneedt odeal
    withNjabulosoon
    Chr
    is:
    wowI
    ..
    I.
    .Idon'
    tev
    enknowwhatt
    o
    say
    Tom:wel
    lIdo,
    nowt
    haty
    ou'
    rebackwhatar
    e
    yougoi
    ngtodo?
    At
    hi:
    Itr
    ulydol
    oveherwi
    thev
    ery
    thi
    ngi
    nme
    butifshe'shappywiththi
    snewguyIwon'
    t
    standintheirwayIguessIhavetomanup
    eventhoughIcompl etel
    ydidn'
    tdo
    anythi
    ng,all
    Iwantistoseeherhappy
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t47~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    I
    'm onmyway ,
    actual
    lyI
    'm walki
    ngi n
    Mar bl
    eRest aur
    anttomeetupwi tht heguys,
    Mar bl
    eRest aur
    antisafancyrestaurantso
    withTom her eIsensealotof
    drama...
    .headsturnasIwalktowar dsthe
    guysandt hestaresarereal
    lymakingme
    uncomf ort
    able,Iwonderwho'sthecar amel
    guy
    .
    Tom: *standi
    ngup"
    Yoh!!Excusemeori sit
    attenti
    on?Aghwhateverjustmindy our
    businessandstopstari
    ngatt hi
    sbeautif
    ul
    creature*hesay
    sthatandimmedi atel
    y
    everyonegoesbacktot hei
    rconversati
    on*
    Me:
    *joi
    ningt
    hem*
    youdi
    dn'
    thav
    etodo
    t
    hat
    ,heyguys
    Them:
    hey
    Tom:Ididn'twantyoufal
    li
    ngand
    embarrassingyoursel
    fnowcauset
    rustmeI
    woul
    dhav elaughedto.
    Zugo:
    don'
    tmi
    ndhi
    m pr
    incess,
    any
    wayt
    his
    i
    s..
    Guy:
    ahhdudeIknowhowtoint
    roduce
    mysel
    fthanky
    ouv er
    ymuch
    Zugor
    oll
    shi
    sey
    es
    Guy:
    hiI
    '
    m Athenkosi
    Ngcobo*
    landi
    ngme
    hi
    shandforashake*
    Comet othi
    nkofi tIhavehear
    dSipho
    mentionAthenkosithatl
    astweekendwe
    spenttoget
    her.
    Me:
    I'
    m Mbal
    enhl
    eMt
    hembu
    Ialsolandhi m myhandbutt hesmi l
    eIhav e
    suddenl ydisappearsI'
    m gl adnoonecan
    seemyf aceort heywoul dbeaski ng
    questionsr i
    ghtnow, hi
    shear tisheav yhe'
    s
    beenl ongingforTasha' sloveandi tseems
    l
    ikehe' sslowlygivinguponherbuthedoes
    tr
    ulylov eher.IfI'
    m beingshowed
    somet hingitmeansIhav etodosomet hi
    ng
    abouti tli
    keinterveni
    ngj ustli
    keTashaand
    MJwel lonMJ' scasei t'
    sdi f
    fer
    entv ery
    dif
    ferenthe'ssupposet oopenupt ome
    fi
    rstany wayal lIhavetodoi stomakesur e
    AthenkosiandTashasi t
    sdownandt al
    k
    aboutthi
    sohhandTashahast otal
    kt o
    KhayatooIf eelsorr
    yformyfri
    endshame
    butI'
    ll
    suppor theronwhatev
    erchoi
    ceshe
    makes.
    Chris:
    *snappi
    nghisfi
    nger
    sinf
    rontofmy
    face*hel
    lo,
    Mbalenhl
    e
    Idi
    dn'
    treal
    i
    zet
    hatIzonedoutIqui
    ckl
    y
    comebacktomysenseandtakemyhand
    back.
    Me:
    sor
    ryf
    orgi
    veaboutt
    hat
    At
    henkosi
    :ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    mfi
    ne
    Athenkosi
    :Iwasaski
    ngi
    fyoucoul
    dtakeof
    f
    yourmaskIwanttoseeyourf
    ace
    Me:
    Ican'
    t
    Hi
    m:whynot
    Me:
    l
    ongst
    ory
    Henods
    Tom:
    *fr
    eakedout
    *woah
    Chr
    is:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Hel
    ooksundert
    het
    abl
    e
    Tom:
    IswearIj
    ustf
    eltsomet
    hingonmy
    l
    egs
    Weall
    lookundert
    het
    abl
    eahgodi
    t'
    sMj
    he'
    smovinghi
    stai
    l
    Zugo:dudether
    e'snothi
    ngundert
    het
    abl
    e
    you'
    rebeingdelusi
    onal
    Tom:I
    '
    m notcr
    azyZugoi
    ..
    wh*
    hequi
    ckl
    y
    st
    andsup*
    Me:
    chi
    l
    lit
    'sj
    ustMj
    ZugoandChr
    isal
    sost
    andupqui
    ckl
    y
    f
    reakedout
    Athenkosi
    :who'
    sMj
    andwhyar
    eyouguy
    s
    fr
    eakedout?
    Tom:he'
    sher
    e?Whydi dyoubr
    inghi
    m?Do
    youwanthi
    mt oeatus?
    Waiter
    :greet
    ings,
    I'm Tr
    evorandIwi
    l
    lbe
    yourwait
    ertoday,herearet
    h..
    .
    Tom:
    eiawumekancanewena(
    wai
    tasec)I
    ..
    Me:*
    looki
    ngatt
    hewait
    ress*
    thankyou,
    you
    canl
    eavethemenuswe'l
    ll
    etyouknow
    whenwewanttoorder
    Henodsandpl
    acet
    hemenusont
    het
    abl
    e
    t
    henleav
    es.
    Me:comeonguysItol
    dy oumosthathe
    wouldn'
    thur
    tyounowpleaset
    akeaseat.
    Chr
    isandZugosi
    tsdownwi
    thhesi
    tat
    ion
    Tom:
    Iwon'
    tseat
    Athenkosi
    :
    *confused*li
    keseri
    ousl
    ywhat'
    s
    goingonwhoi sMj andwhereishecause
    there'
    snot
    hingunderthetabl
    e.
    Il
    ookathim,
    nahhewil
    lal
    sof
    eakoutand
    i
    nvi
    teevenmoreat
    tent
    ion
    Chr
    is:
    youwi
    l
    lmeethi
    m soondon'
    twor
    ry
    At
    henkosi
    :butI
    ..
    Chr
    is:
    goodl
    et'
    sor
    der
    Athenkosipi
    cksupt hatheshoul
    ddropt
    his
    andhedoesandf ocusesonthemenuon
    theotherhandIguessTom istir
    edof
    standi
    ngasheal sositsdown.
    Athenkosi
    :ohbeforeIf
    orgett
    her
    e's
    somethingthatSi
    phogavemehesai dI
    shouldgiv
    eittoyouwhenIseeyou.
    If
    reeze
    Me:
    yousawhi
    m?
    At
    henkosi
    :yeah
    Me:butIt
    houghthe'
    snotal
    l
    owedt
    ohav
    e
    vi
    sit
    ors
    Athenkosi
    :ohnoIdi dn'tvi
    sithi
    m,Ial
    sohad
    tosaymygoodby esoIf l
    ewt odownto
    EnglandIwaitedforhimt oland,
    aft
    erthat
    wewal kedaroundabi thesawsome
    necklaceandthoughtofy ousoheboughti t
    andaskedmet ogiveittoyou
    Ahthelovemybrotherhasf
    ormeI
    wouldn'
    ttr
    adei
    tforanyoneorany
    thi
    ng
    Me:
    ohsowher
    eisi
    t
    Hi
    m:i
    t'
    sinmycarI
    '
    llgi
    vei
    ttoy
    oul
    ater
    Inod
    Zugo:
    I'
    m st
    arv
    ingnowl
    et'
    sjustor
    der
    .
    Trev
    orcomest
    otakeouror
    der
    s,t
    heguy
    s
    goesfi
    rst
    Tr
    evor
    :andy
    oumam whatwoul
    dyoul
    i
    ke?
    Iam st
    arv
    ingi
    thasbeen3hour
    ssi
    nceIl
    ast
    ate
    Me:
    Iwoul
    dli
    kea.
    .
    OhIcan'
    teati
    nfr
    ontofal
    lthesepeopl
    e
    Me:
    uhm nev
    ermi
    ndI
    '
    m nott
    hathungr
    y.
    Henodsandwal
    ksaway
    Tom:ar
    eyousur
    ey ou'
    renothungr
    ycauseI
    knowhowmuchy oulovefood
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    m goodIhadahugebr
    eakf
    ast
    .
    Henodsandwecont inuet al
    ki
    ngabout
    othert
    hings,
    themomentt hei
    rfoodgets
    heremyst omachgr
    umbl esbutnotto
    l
    oud,wet al
    kast heyeatandtrustmeIcan't
    waittogetoutofher eorel
    sehungerwi l
    l
    kil
    lmepl usthewayTom eat sit
    'sli
    kehe
    knowsI '
    m hungryandwant smet oadmit
    i
    t..
    .anywayaftereati
    ngthebil
    lgetshereand
    theguyscleartheirt
    hroat
    sandl ookat
    Athenkosi
    At
    henkosi
    :what
    ?
    Zugo:
    thebi
    l
    l
    At
    henkosi
    :whatabouti
    t?
    Chris:
    ahcomeonmancan'
    tyoubeourgod
    today
    At
    henkosi
    :nowayno
    Tom:
    i
    t'
    scool
    guy
    sI'
    vegott
    his
    Zugo:
    youdo?
    Tom chuckl
    esandt
    akeoutaf
    ewhundr
    ed
    andpl
    acet
    hem ont
    het
    abl
    e
    Tom:
    l
    et'
    sgo
    Zugo:
    you'
    renotwai
    ti
    ngf
    ory
    ourchange?
    Tom:
    nahI
    '
    m bl
    essi
    ngt
    hem
    Zugolooksathi
    m curi
    ousl
    yandqui
    ckl
    y
    patshi
    spocketsthensi
    ghs
    Chr
    is:
    what
    ?
    Zugo:
    Idon'tt
    rustt
    hisoneIt
    houghthetook
    mywalletandusedmymoneyt opay,
    you
    knowhowhei s.
    Chr
    isandAt
    henkosi
    alsopat
    sthei
    rpocket
    s
    At
    henkosi
    :thef
    uckTom,
    giv
    emebackmy
    wal
    let
    .
    Tom runsoutlaughi
    ngwit
    hAt
    henkosi
    runni
    ngafterhi
    m makingmel
    aughtoo
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    Iknewi
    t
    Wewal
    koutandfi
    ndTom andAt
    henkosi
    ont
    hegr
    oundfi
    ghti
    ngf
    orthewal
    let
    At
    henkosi
    :Tom Mbi
    kel
    waKhumal
    ogi
    veme
    mywall
    etback
    Tom:
    ohhel
    lnoy
    oudi
    dn'
    t
    ZugoandChr
    isbur
    stouti
    ntol
    aught
    er
    Thesetwoar eonl
    yat
    tract
    ingpeopl
    es
    eyes,
    may besomethi
    nkstheyare
    comedians
    Athenkosi
    :i
    fyoudon'
    tgi
    vememywal
    l
    et
    backI..
    Tom:
    whatwi
    l
    lyoudo
    At
    henkosi
    :Mbi
    kel
    waI
    ..
    Tom:
    voet
    sek!
    !
    Zugol
    aughsti
    ll
    histearscomeoutwhil
    e
    chr
    isl
    aughshol
    dinghisstomach,
    Iguess
    Tom hateshe'
    sothername..
    .sometwo
    poli
    ceshowupandbr eakupTom and
    Athenkosit
    heyarej
    ustdramatici
    t'
    snotl
    i
    ke
    theywerefi
    ghti
    ngforreal
    .
    Tom:
    takehi
    m awayof
    fi
    cer
    s
    Igi
    ggl
    esi
    l
    ent
    ly
    At
    henkosi
    :not
    akehi
    m away
    Offi
    cer1:
    wecan'
    ttakeanyonewi
    thout
    knowingwhati
    shappening,
    whyareyou
    fi
    ghti
    ng?
    Tom:
    her
    apedmysi
    stert
    hispi
    eceofshi
    t
    At
    henkosi
    :heki
    l
    ledmybr
    other
    Woah.
    .
    Offi
    cer2:
    thenitl
    ooksl
    i
    kewehav etot
    ake
    thebothofyoutothestat
    ionfor
    questi
    oning*t
    aki
    ngoutcuffs*
    At
    hi&Tom:
    woah
    Tom:
    Athiy
    out al
    kedaboutaneckl
    acecanI
    seei
    t?Her
    e'syourwal
    letbuddy
    *handi
    ng
    himt
    hewallet
    *
    At
    hi:
    thanksbuddybutyouhavet
    opaymy
    moneythatyouusedinther
    e
    Tom:y
    oucalledmebymysecond
    name,
    ther
    e'snowayI
    'm pay
    ingy
    ouback
    Of
    fi
    cer
    2:what
    'sgoi
    ngonher
    evel
    e?
    Tom:
    youdi
    stur
    bedourf
    ighty
    oumor
    onsget
    l
    ost
    Off
    icer
    1:y
    oungmany oudoknowt
    hatwe
    canarr
    estyouf
    orassaul
    ti
    ngapol
    i
    ceman
    Tom:
    *si
    ghsandlooksup*Lor
    dtheybor
    e
    me,y
    ourpeopl
    earebori
    ngme
    Thewayhesay
    sthatmakesmel
    aughout
    l
    oudandpeopleendupl ookingatmeItry
    tohol
    dinmylaughterbutIcan'tIl
    augh
    agai
    nmakingAthenkosilaughstoo
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    Athi
    wher
    e'sy
    ourcar
    ?
    Hepoi
    ntsati
    t
    Me:
    *st
    il
    ll
    aughi
    ng*
    carkey
    s
    Hegi vesmet hecarkey sandIwal ktohis
    car,IopenthefrontseatandMj j
    umpsi n
    fi
    rstandgoest ot hebackthenIal sogetin
    andcat chmybr eath,l
    etmesendamsgt o
    Tashaandt el
    lhert ocomeov ertoSipho'
    s
    houset henI'l
    laskAt hitodri
    vemet hereso
    theycouldtalkaboutt histhentomor rowI'
    ll
    makesur eshesi tsdownwi thKhay a.
    .Tom
    andAt hiruntothecarwi t
    hChr isandZugo
    afterthem l
    aughi ng
    Tom:
    hel
    pus,
    theywantt
    oar
    restus
    Athenkosi
    :yespl
    easechar
    mthem,
    sweet
    tal
    ktothem
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*nopr
    incessl
    ett
    hem get
    arr
    est
    edsotheycoul
    dlearnt
    hei
    rlesson.
    Theof
    fi
    cer
    sget
    stous
    Of
    fi
    cer2:
    gent
    lemanI
    ..
    .
    Me:
    nopl
    easedon'
    tar
    restt
    hem Iapol
    ogi
    ze
    f
    ort
    hei
    rbehav
    ior
    Off
    icer
    1:noyounglady
    ..
    thesetwowast
    ed
    ourti
    me,assaul
    tedmypartner
    ,cal
    l
    edus
    namesa..
    Me:
    lookt het
    hingismybrother
    sar
    enot
    mentall
    yokandt heyhav
    en'
    ttookt
    hei
    r
    medicati
    onoffi
    cerssodoforgi
    vet
    hem.
    Of
    fi
    cer
    1:ohI
    '
    m sosor
    rywedi
    dn'
    tknow
    mi
    ss
    Me:
    i
    t'
    sok
    Offi
    cer
    2:y
    eahwear esor
    rypleasegi
    vethem
    thei
    rmedicat
    ionandenj
    oytherestofy
    our
    day
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    l
    Theynodandl
    eav
    e.
    Tom&At
    hi:
    Thef
    uck!
    ?
    Chr
    is:*l
    aughing*
    bestdayev
    erohgodwhy
    di
    dn'tIfi
    lm al
    lofthi
    s.
    Iwonderi
    fSi
    phoi
    sal
    sol
    i
    ket
    hiswhenhe'
    s
    wit
    hthem?
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t48~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    SoImanagedtogetAthenkosi
    tocome
    i
    nside,
    Itol
    dhi
    mthatIhavesomethi
    ngt
    o
    showhim.
    At
    hi:
    sowhati
    sitt
    haty
    ouwantt
    oshowme?
    Me:
    uhm not
    hingact
    ual
    l
    y
    At
    hi:
    *conf
    used*
    arey
    oupl
    anni
    ngt
    oki
    l
    lme?
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    may
    be
    "
    Babe" Tashasay
    sasshewalksinmaki ng
    Athenkosi'
    sbodyfr
    eezeandshealso
    fr
    eezesassheseesAt hi
    ,
    hersmil
    et ur
    ns
    i
    ntoaf rown.
    Tasha:
    what
    'shedoi
    ngher
    e?
    At
    hij
    ustl
    ooksatherst
    il
    lfr
    ozen.
    Tasha:
    I'
    m outofher
    *tur
    ning*
    Ihol
    dherhand.
    Me:
    no,
    stay
    Tasha:
    wit
    hhi
    m her
    eno,
    andhowdoy
    ou
    knowhim?
    Me:
    quest
    ionsl
    atery
    ..
    Tasha:
    No!
    !Mbal
    iIam notst
    ayi
    ngher
    e
    Me:NATASHASMI
    THYOUAREGOINGTO
    SI
    TYOURBUTTDOWNANDTALKWI TH
    ATHENKOSIRI
    GHTNOW RI
    GHTHERE!
    !
    Damndi dIjustshout
    ?Tashawal ks
    towardsthechairandtakesaseat,
    sodoes
    Athiwhohasn'tsaidanythi
    ngeversi
    nce
    Tashawal kedin.
    Me: Athenkosithi
    sisthereasonIaskedy
    ou
    tocomei nsideandTashathesamegoes
    fory outoo,sonowtalkandexcusemeIam
    dyingofhunger
    Tasha:
    nopl
    easest
    ay*
    shel
    ooksatmewi
    th
    beggi
    ngey
    es*
    ButI
    '
    m hungr
    y
    Me:
    uhm I
    At
    hi:
    yeahi
    fitwi
    l
    lmakehercomf
    ort
    abl
    e
    st
    ay
    Isi
    ghasmeandmyhungr ysel
    ftakea
    seat
    ,t
    hentheybot
    hlookatmenotsay
    ing
    anyt
    hing
    Me:
    ser
    iousl
    y??
    Theyst
    il
    lsaynot
    hingJesuswher
    e'sTom
    whenyouneedhim
    Me:
    *si
    ghing*At
    higof
    ir
    st,
    tel
    lhery
    oursi
    de
    oft
    hestory
    At
    hi:
    howd.
    .
    Me:al
    lyouhavetoknowisthatIknowy
    our
    si
    deofthestor
    ydon'taskmehow
    Icanseethathest
    il
    lwantt
    oaskal
    otof
    quest
    ions
    At
    hi:
    uhm wheredoIst
    arter
    rfir
    stl
    yhi
    ,
    y ou
    st
    il
    ll
    ookbeauti
    ful
    aseverbytheway*he
    gi
    vesinanerv
    oussmil
    e*
    Henarr
    atest
    hewhol
    est
    orywhi
    chleaves
    Tashai
    ntear
    sandal
    sowit
    hanuncert
    ain
    l
    ookonherface
    Me:
    Tashay
    ourt
    urn
    It
    akeoutmyphoneandor
    dert
    akeaway
    s
    Tasha:*
    taki
    ngabr
    eather
    *justthi
    nki
    ng
    aboutwhatyoupl
    acedmet hroughbri
    ngs
    backthepain
    At
    hi:
    youdi
    dhearwhatIj
    ustsai
    dri
    ght
    ?
    Tasha:
    soareyout
    ell
    i
    ngmet
    haty
    our
    brot
    herl
    iedtome?
    Athi
    :St
    epbrot
    herandy esheli
    edtoyouand
    whatisitt
    hathetoldyouthatmadeyou
    beli
    evehiminsuchawayt hatyouwoul
    d
    shutmeoutcompl etel
    y
    Tasha:after2hour sy ouleft,
    hecalledme
    andaskedmet ocomeov eratyour
    apart
    menti tisurgentandi tisabout
    you,
    from t hereIpani ckedIwast hinking
    aboutwor sescenar i
    osIdi dn'
    taskat
    questi
    onsIwentt oy ourapar tment ,whenI
    gotthereIf oundhi m hol dinganenv elope
    l
    ookingatmewi t
    hpi tyheaskedmet ot ake
    aseatandt henhet oldmet hatwhathe
    wasaboutt ot el
    lmehewasonl ytellingme
    causehewasl ookingoutf orme* sighs* he
    sai
    dony ourf i
    rstyeari nv arsi
    tyyougota
    beauti
    ful gir
    lfr
    iendwhi chy oureall
    yl ove,you
    wereonl yst i
    llwit
    hmebecausey ouwant ed
    myv ir
    ginity*snif
    fs*andaf teryougoti tyou
    gotmarr
    iedt
    oyourgi
    rl
    fr
    iendandthetwoof
    youdeci
    dedtomovetoNewYor k,heeven
    showedmethepi
    ctur
    esofy ourweddi
    ng.
    At
    hi:
    *br
    eat
    hingheav
    y*I
    ..
    Tasha:
    *wi
    pinghert
    ear
    s*nosav
    ewhat
    ever
    youwantsay
    Athi:NoTeeIwon' tshutup, Ihavesomuch
    tosaybutIwon' tsayi tall,
    fir
    stlyallofthis
    prov estomet haty ouhadl itt
    lefatei nus
    thaty oudidn'
    tbelievemewhenIt oldyou
    thaty ouaremyev erything,Idon'tev en
    knowhowt hepicturesy ou'retalkingabout
    l
    ooksl i
    ketheywer epr obabl yfake,Ihave
    nev ercheatedony ou..
    okl et'
    ssayIam
    mar riedhowdoy out hinkmywi f
    ef eels
    aboutt hefactthatpi cturesofy ou,ofusar e
    allov ermyInstagram andt hatIhav en'
    t
    deletedthem yet,i
    fal lIeverwant edwas
    yourv ir
    gini
    tyandt henleaveyouwhywoul d
    Ikeept ryi
    ngtor eachouttoy ou,
    youknow
    howNj abul
    oisIhav ealway stol
    dyouabout
    him andy etyoubel i
    evedhim andtotal
    l
    y
    shutmeoutnotev enaskingmei fwhathe
    toldy ouwast r
    ueornot ,wehadt ol
    oseour
    childbecausey oudi dn'
    thavefatei
    nus,you
    didn'ttr
    ustme,y..
    Me:woahcal
    m downdude,y
    ou'l
    lendup
    say
    ingthi
    ngsyoumightr
    egretl
    ater
    .
    Hel
    ooksupbreathingheavywhil
    eTasha'
    s
    t
    ear
    skeepfall
    ingdown,thi
    stal
    kisn'
    tgoi
    ng
    t
    hewayIthoughtitwil
    lgo.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    rybabebuthe'
    stel
    li
    ngthe
    t
    rut
    h,ev
    ery
    thi
    nghejustsai
    disthetr
    uth.
    AndIam fuckenhungry
    ,someoneknocksit
    mustbethedeliv
    eryguyItakemywallet
    Me:
    *st
    andi
    ngup*
    excuseme
    Iwalktothedooronl
    ytofi
    ndKhay
    awi
    th
    takeaway
    sonhi shands
    Hi
    m:youoweme*
    handi
    ngmet
    he
    t
    akeaways*
    Me:
    doIr
    eal
    l
    yhav
    etopayy
    ou?
    Hi
    m:l
    etmespeakt
    oTashaandy
    ou'
    l
    lbeof
    f
    t
    hehook
    Me:
    howdoy
    ouknowTashai
    sher
    e?
    Him:
    MJt ol
    dme,heaskedmetocomefet
    ch
    yousi
    ncedadcall
    edhim ov
    erf
    orsome
    busi
    ness
    Me:
    ohw
    Hewalksi
    n,Idi
    dn'
    tevensayhecoul
    dcome
    i
    n,
    Icloset
    hedoorandsight
    henwalktot
    he
    l
    ounge.
    Khaya:
    Tashaar
    eyouok?Whyar
    eyou
    cr
    ying?
    Tashal
    ooksatKhay
    athenAt
    hit
    henme.
    Me:uhuhm At
    hicouldyouhel
    pmewi
    th
    somethi
    ngattheki
    tchen.
    Hedoesn' tsayanythinghejuststandsup
    andwal kt ot
    hekitchenwithmef ol
    lowing
    him,Itakeaseatont hehighchairandt ake
    outthef i
    rstt
    akeawayt henstartattacking
    i
    t,t
    hemomentIst arteati
    ngAt hichokeson
    thewat erhe'
    sdri
    nkingIlookathi m and
    he'slookingatmewi thhiseyesal l
    out .
    Me:
    what
    ?What
    'swr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:*
    stut
    ter
    ing*
    yo.
    .y
    ou
    Me:
    me??whydoy
    oul
    ookl
    i
    key
    ouar
    eabout
    t
    ofai
    nt?
    Iam soconf
    usedr
    ightnow
    Hi
    m:y
    ouj
    ustat
    ethr
    oughy
    ourmask.
    OHSHI
    T!
    Me:uhm i
    t'
    sal ongst
    orycanwenott
    alk
    aboutt
    hisstupidmaskri
    ghtnow
    At
    hi:
    Ihav
    esomanyquest
    ions
    Me:
    keept
    hem f
    ornow.
    HenodsandIcont
    inueeat
    ing
    Hi
    m:ohher
    eyougo
    Hehandsmeagol
    denl
    ongbox,
    i
    tmustbe
    t
    heneckl
    ace
    Me:
    thanky
    ou
    It
    akeoutt
    hesecondt
    akeawayandst
    at
    at
    tacki
    ngi
    t
    At
    hi:
    youwon'
    tev
    enshar
    e?
    Me:
    ohhel
    lno
    Hechuckl esandsitsnextt
    omeaswear e
    facingtheloungelooki
    ngatTashaand
    Khay a,
    he'
    sgivingTashathesamelookMJ
    givesme
    Me:uhsof
    rom t
    hispoi
    ntwhatar
    eyou
    goi
    ngtodo?
    Him:Ireall
    ydon'
    tknowbutmylovef
    orher
    hasn'
    tf adedawayandIdon'
    twantt
    ocause
    herproblemswithhernewguy
    Me:
    newguy
    ??
    HepointsatKhayausi nghishead, i
    fonlyhe
    knowsthattheyaren'
    tdat i
    ngbutIwon' ttel
    l
    himthatiti
    snotmypl acet otellImean
    whatifIt
    ellhi
    mt hattheyaren'tdating,
    that
    wouldrai
    seuphi shopesandatt heend
    TashadatesKhay a.
    .t
    hatwoul dcr ushhim
    sonoIain'tt
    ell
    i
    ngany thing.
    Me:
    ohandI
    '
    mtr
    ulysor
    ryabouty
    ourchi
    l
    d
    Hi
    m:thanksohandIhear
    dyou'
    reget
    ti
    ng
    marr
    iedcongr
    atul
    ati
    ons
    Me:
    thanks.
    Theweddi ngisinlessthan2mont hsbutI
    haven'
    tstart
    edwi t
    ht heprepar
    ationsand
    worsethere'
    llbetwoweddi ngsthewhi t
    e
    weddingandt hetradit
    ional
    weddi ng.
    Tasha
    wal
    kst owardsus
    Her
    :uhcanwet
    alk*
    looki
    ngatAt
    hi*
    Me:At
    hicoul
    dyoudri
    veherhomeyou'
    l
    ltal
    k
    onthewayther
    ecauseIhavet
    ogonowI
    missmyman.
    At
    hi:
    yourwhat
    ?!
    Me:
    Khay
    alet
    'sgo!
    !
    At
    hi:
    i
    fsomeoneasksmet
    otel
    lthem about
    you,
    tr
    ustmeIwoul dn'
    tsayanyt
    hingcauseI
    don'
    tevenknowhowy oul
    ookli
    keand
    ever
    ythi
    ngaboutyouismy st
    eri
    ousand
    worseyoukeepshutti
    ngmeout
    Me:
    don'
    twor
    ryI
    '
    llt
    ell
    youev
    ery
    thi
    ngsoon.
    Henodsaswewal
    kout
    .
    Tasha:
    we'
    l
    ltal
    ktomor
    row
    Me:
    ok,
    bye
    Wehugandgooursepar at
    eway s,
    Iopen
    thebackseatdoorf orMj andalsopl
    acemy
    takeawayt hencloseitandItakethefr
    ont
    seat.
    ..Khayathenstartstheigni
    ti
    onand
    he'srathertoquietf
    ormyl iki
    ngIwonder
    howhi stalkwithTashawent .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t48~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    ThefuckKhay
    a!!Youj
    ustdr
    ovet
    hrough
    ar
    edli
    ght!
    Hi
    m:so?
    Me:so??Youcoul
    dhav
    ecausedan
    acci
    dent
    Hi
    m:andIdi
    dn'
    tsochi
    l
    l
    Me:
    chi
    l
    l??Whati
    swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ou?
    Him:uhm let
    'sseeuhIthoughtwewere
    fr
    iendsbutIguessIwaswr ong,
    whenyou
    l
    ookatmet heonlyt
    hingyouseeisa
    brotheri
    n-l
    aw
    Me:
    what
    ?Wher
    eisal
    loft
    hiscomi
    ngf
    rom?
    Him:y
    ouaretr
    yingtohookupTashaand
    herexknowi
    ngv er
    ywellt
    hatIl
    i
    keher
    Me:
    l
    ies!
    Hi
    m:t
    henwhycal
    lTashat
    otal
    kwi
    thherex
    Me:
    causet
    heyhadt
    otal
    k.
    Hepar
    ksnex
    ttoMJwhoi
    sal
    sopar
    king.
    Hi
    m:t
    alkaboutwhat
    ?Feel
    i
    ngs?
    ?
    Me:no,
    butyouhavet
    ounder
    standt
    hathe
    l
    ovesherandh..
    Him:WHATABOUTMY
    FEELI
    NGS!
    *sl
    ammingt
    hedoor
    *
    IOpenforMj,
    aghI
    '
    m nol
    ongeri
    nter
    est
    edi
    n
    thi
    stakeaway
    Me:
    whosai
    dIdon'
    tcar
    eabouty
    ourf
    eel
    i
    ngs?
    Hi
    m:y
    ouracti
    onsdi
    d,y
    oupi
    ckedhi
    ssi
    de
    ov
    ermine.
    Me:Idi
    dn'tpickanyside,It
    hinkyouare
    fai
    l
    ingtounder standthatbothyouandAthi
    l
    oveTasha, y
    oushoul dhaveaskedTashat o
    ful
    l
    yexplaintoy ouaboutherandAt hi
    i
    nsteadofjumpi ngint
    ousel essconcl
    usi
    ons
    andshoutingatmeasi fI'
    m achil
    d!
    MJ:
    woahwhat
    'sgoi
    ngonher
    e?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknowasky
    ourbr
    other
    .
    Imarchinsi
    dewi
    thKhay acall
    i
    ngmy
    name,I
    '
    m donehel
    pinglookwher ehel
    ping
    hasended,i
    tnow seemslikeI'
    mt aki
    ng
    si
    des.
    MJ:
    babe,
    whatwast
    hatabout
    ?
    Me:
    I.
    .
    Khay
    a:Mbal
    iI.
    .
    Me:
    noKhayay
    ouhav
    eal
    readyshout
    edat
    meenough
    Khaya:no,I
    '
    m sorryfortalkingtoy oulike
    thati
    tjustthatI
    'mf rustr
    ated, whenIasked
    Tashawhyshewascr y
    ingshesai dit'
    sthe
    conversati
    onshewashav i
    ngwi tht hatguy
    whoi sherexandIsawt hatshest il
    lloves
    him whichiswhyI '
    mf rustratedcauseI
    real
    lyloveher*l
    ookingdown*
    MJ:
    didy
    ouj
    ustsayl
    ove?
    Khay
    ashoot
    sMJanev
    iley
    e
    Me:Igetthaty
    oulov
    eherandfrust
    rat
    edbut
    t
    hatdoesn'tmeanyoushoul
    dtakeoutyour
    f
    rustr
    ationsonme
    Khay
    a:I
    '
    m sor
    ry
    Me:andI'
    m ser
    iousl
    ynottaki
    nganysi
    desi
    f
    Iwasthenwhydi dIl
    etyouspeakt
    oTasha
    i
    nAt hi
    '
    spresence
    Hi
    m:Idi
    dn'
    tthi
    nk
    Me: andthi
    shasnothingt
    odowi thme,
    al
    lof
    thisisuptoTashanotme,excusemeI'
    m
    ti
    redI '
    mjustgonnashowerand
    sleep..
    goodni
    ght.
    Iwal
    kupst
    air
    s
    MJ:
    whydi
    dyouupsetmywomen?
    Khaya:
    Idi
    dn'
    tmeantooandIcanf
    eel
    that
    she'
    ssti
    ll
    upsetwi
    thme.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Mbalenhleheadsstrai
    ghtt
    otakeashower
    andafterthatshe'
    sgoestobed.
    Whil
    eKhay
    aandMJar
    esi
    tedi
    nthel
    ounge
    t
    alki
    ng.
    MJ:
    thathadbet
    terbet
    hef
    ir
    standl
    astt
    ime
    y
    our
    aisey
    ourv
    oiceather
    Khay
    anods.
    MJ:
    nowdoy
    ouser
    iousl
    ylov
    eTasha?
    Khay
    a:Idoandi
    t'
    sfr
    eaki
    ngmeout
    .
    MJ:*
    chuckl
    es*
    dudeyouwereboundt
    ofal
    l
    i
    nloveatsomepoi
    ntIguesst
    hisi
    sit
    .
    Khay
    a:at
    leastIkeptmypr
    omi
    se
    MJ:whichItoldyouthet
    imey
    oumadei
    t
    t
    hatyoudidn'thavet
    oo
    Khay
    a:Iwant
    edt
    oo
    MJ:
    sowho'
    sAt
    hi?
    Khaya:
    Tasha'
    sexanditseemsl
    i
    ket
    hey
    bothst
    il
    ll
    oveeachother
    MJ:sincey
    oual
    sol
    oveherwhat
    'sy
    ou
    gonnado?
    Khay
    a:not
    hing,
    asMbal
    isai
    dthi
    sisal
    lupt
    o
    Tasha.
    MJ:
    whati
    fshepi
    cksy
    ou?
    Khaya:
    whyar
    eyouev
    enaski
    ngt
    hat
    ?Iwi
    l
    l
    behappy
    MJ:
    youdon'
    tgeti
    tdoy
    ou?
    Khay
    a:y
    ouar
    enowswi
    tchi
    ngof
    fthel
    i
    ght
    s.
    MJ:yousaidsoyourselfthatshesti
    ll
    lov
    es
    herexandherexstil
    llovesher ,
    Igett
    hat
    youwill
    behappyifshechoosesy oubut
    wil
    lyoubehappyinar elati
    onshipwit
    hher
    knowingverywel
    lthatshe'sstil
    lhungover
    herexwhoi sal
    sohungov erher.
    Khay
    a:uhm Idi
    dn'
    tthi
    nkaboutt
    hat
    MJ:
    Idi
    dn'
    tknowt
    hist
    il
    lImetLenhl
    et.
    .
    Khay
    a:what
    ?knowwhat
    ?
    MJ:
    *rol
    l
    inghi
    sey
    es*
    lear
    ntol
    i
    stendude,
    I
    wasst
    il
    ltal
    ki
    ng
    Khay
    a:sor
    ry,
    knowwhat
    ?
    MJ:
    thatl
    ovecomeswi
    thsacr
    if
    ices
    Khaya:
    agai
    nyou'
    reswi
    tchi
    ngof
    fal
    lthe
    l
    ight
    s
    MJ: andthoseli
    ght
    sarefory
    outoswi
    tch
    on,
    nowl etmegot obedIhavet
    obeatthe
    off
    icetomorrow.
    Hestandsupgoi ngt
    ohisroom leaving
    Khayaconf used.Hefi
    ndsLenhlealready
    asl
    eepwi shingtoseethewaysheal way s
    poutsherli
    pswhenshe' sasl
    eep, hetakes
    herhandandki ssthebackofit
    .
    MJ:Il
    oveyouMbal
    enhl
    eandIcan'
    twaitfor
    youtobecomeMrsMJMkhize*
    smiles*
    Helet
    sgoofherhandandgoest
    otakea
    showert
    oo.
    .

    thef
    oll
    owi
    ngday

    Mbalenhleischi
    ll
    ingwithNatashabyt
    he
    pool
    asi tisTasha'sdayoff
    .
    Mbali
    :
    Iam sost
    ressedoutaboutthe
    weddi
    ngIneedtofi
    ndaweddi ngplanner
    Tasha:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    whataboutme?Icanpl
    ani
    t
    Mbal
    i
    :TashaI
    '
    m ser
    ious
    Tasha:
    soam i
    .
    Mbal
    enhl
    elooksatTasha
    Mbal
    i
    :l
    ikeser
    ious,
    ser
    ious?
    Tashanodssmi
    l
    ingandMbal
    iat
    tacksher
    wit
    hahug.
    Tasha:
    you'
    rest
    il
    lwi
    nci
    ngi
    npai
    n?
    Mbali
    :
    aghdon'tworryaboutt
    hat,
    beforeyou
    l
    eaveremindmet ogiveyoumymot her'
    s
    number,
    shestri
    ctl
    ytoldmethatshewantto
    workwit
    ht heweddingpl
    anner.
    Tasha:
    OKI'l
    lremi
    ndyou,
    I
    'm soexci
    ted
    aboutt
    hisanditwi
    ll
    beagreatdist
    ract
    ion.
    Tasha:
    speaki
    ngofuhm Ineedsomeadv
    ice
    onwhot ochoosebe.
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :I
    'm sor
    ryIcan'
    t
    Tasha:
    whynot
    ?
    Mbali
    :
    causei
    twi
    l
    lseem l
    i
    keI
    '
    mtaki
    ng
    si
    des.
    Tasha:
    but
    ..
    Mbali:
    nobut s,t
    hebot hguysl
    ovey ouandit
    seemsl i
    key oulov
    et hem bot
    h..
    lookallI
    cansayist hatdonotchooseAt henkosi
    becausey oufeell
    ikeyouowehi mt hat
    much, becausey ouf eel l
    ikey oubr okeup
    withhi mf ornothi
    ng,becausey ouf eel l
    ike
    youar eher eri
    ghtnowbecauseof
    you,choosehi m becausey our eal
    lylov ehim
    andy ouf ull
    ywantt obewi thhim, noone
    else..
    .anddonotchooseKhay aoutof
    pity,
    donotchoosehi m becausey ouf eel
    l
    ikey ouowehi mf orsav ingy ou,because
    youf eel l
    ikeitisaf airthingt odono, choose
    him becausey oureallylov ehim andy ou
    full
    ywantt obewi thhim, nooneel se.Onl y
    youknowwhoi sbestf ory ou,nooneshoul d
    tellyouwhot ochoose.
    Tasha:
    *smi
    les*
    Ilov
    ey oumor
    ethan
    chocol
    atey
    ouknowt hat?
    Mbali:
    *gi
    ggles*
    andIloveyout
    oo,j
    ustknow
    thatwhateverdeci
    sionyoumakeI'
    ll
    supportyou.
    Tasha:
    andIal
    sol
    ovet
    hewayy
    oucar
    efor
    me.
    Mbal
    i:
    Ifsomeonecaresaboutyou,you
    won’
    teverhavetowonderhowt heyfeel
    ,
    t
    hey’
    l
    lconstant
    lyremindyou.
    Tasha:
    *conf
    used*
    what
    ?
    Mbali
    :thati
    swhatMJal
    way
    stel
    l
    s
    me*smiles*
    Tasha:
    Icanf
    eel
    thaty
    ouar
    esmi
    l
    ing
    Mbal
    i
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    Iam
    Tasha:
    *smil
    es*Ir
    eall
    ylookuptowhaty
    ou
    andMJsharey outwomakel ov
    eseems
    easywhil
    eit
    'scompli
    cated.
    Mbal
    i:
    that
    'swhereyouar
    ewr
    ong,
    Lov
    eisn’
    t
    compl
    icat
    ed,peopl
    eare.
    Tasha:
    I.
    .*
    sher
    unsoutofwor
    dst
    osay
    *
    Mbal
    i:
    nowenoughaboutt
    hat
    ,nextweekI'
    m
    comi
    ngbacktoworkandwhendidyoulast
    seeWandi
    ?
    Tasha:
    i
    t'
    shasbeenawhi
    l
    e
    Mbali
    :I
    '
    m ali
    tt
    leworr
    iedabouthi
    m,he'
    snot
    answeri
    ngmycall
    swhenIcallhi
    m
    Tasha:maybehehasbeenbusyst
    op
    worry
    ingyoursel
    f
    Mbal
    i
    :may
    be.
    Theycont
    inuet
    alki
    ngaboutot
    hert
    hings.

    Meanwhi l
    eNj abulomakeshiswaytothe
    ai
    rportmaki ngsurenooneseeshim,he
    knowst hathisstepbrot
    heri
    sbackfr
    om
    NewYor kandhaspr obabl
    ytal
    kedt
    o
    Natasha,meani ngheknowswhathedi dso
    he'
    snowr unningawaybecauseheknows
    Athi
    won'tdropthi
    s,j
    ustasthecabdri
    ves
    awayleav
    inghim attheai
    rpor
    tTom and
    Zugocomeoutofnowher e.
    Tom:
    Boom,
    wher
    edoy
    out
    hinky
    ou'
    regoi
    ng?
    Nj
    abul
    oget
    sscar
    edt
    hemomenthesees
    t
    hem.
    Tom:
    youknowwhatdon'
    tanswer
    ,l
    et'
    sgo
    Zugo:anddon'
    tyoudaretr
    ysomet
    hing
    funny
    * showi
    nghim hi
    sgun*
    Thet hr
    eeofthem walktoZugo'scarwit
    h
    theluggage,
    andstartthei
    gnit
    ion,Tom
    putsaclothonNjabulo'
    snosedr uggi
    nghim.
    Zugo:
    whydi
    dyoudr
    ughi
    m,hewasn'
    tgoi
    ng
    todoany
    thi
    ng.
    Tom:
    youdon'
    tknowt
    hat
    Zugo:
    youar
    esuchacowar
    d
    Tom:
    am not
    Zugo:
    dudey
    ou'
    rescar
    edofaspi
    der
    Tom:
    am not
    Zugo:
    youar
    e
    Tom:
    am not
    Zugo:
    haveyoufor
    gott
    enthatyouaret
    he
    onewhotoldmethatyouarescar
    edofa
    spi
    der
    ?*chuckl
    es*
    Tom: well
    it'
    sobviousthaty oudidn'
    t
    l
    isten,
    whatIsaidwast hatSeeingaspider
    i
    nmyr oom isn’
    tscary
    .I t
    ’sscarywheni t
    disappears,
    anddon'ttellmet hatdoesn'
    t
    scareyou.
    Zugochuckl
    esandf
    ocusesont
    her
    oad.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t49~

    °
    AtAt
    henkosi
    '
    shouse°

    Theguyswer
    ewatchi
    ngfoot
    bal
    l
    ,dr
    inki
    ng
    overal
    i
    ghtconv
    ersat
    ion.
    Chri
    s:sodudewhenar
    eyoudeal
    i
    ngwi
    th
    Njbs
    At
    hi:
    *takesasip*
    Idon'
    tknowbutI
    '
    m gonna
    l
    ethi
    m bef orawhil
    e
    Chr
    is:
    *chuckl
    es*
    inwhatway
    ?
    Athi
    :I
    '
    m gonnakeephi
    m atthewar
    ehouse
    forawhi
    le,
    makehimthinkIhav
    eforgot
    ten
    abouthi
    m.
    Tom:
    whataboutTee?
    At
    hi:
    she'
    sinar
    elat
    ionshi
    pwi
    thsomeone
    el
    se
    Tom:
    so?
    At
    hi:
    whatdoy oumeanbyso?Ican'
    tj
    ust
    cl
    aim herback
    Tom:
    whynot
    Athi:
    *si
    ghs*lookTom whatmat terstome
    themosti sherhappiness,i
    fshe'shappy
    withtheotherguythenIdon'twanttot ake
    herhappinessawayf rom her
    .
    Tom: y
    ouandSi phohav eal
    waysbeent he
    niceguys,
    youarer ui
    ningourr
    eputat
    ion..
    so
    tell
    meMrni ceguyhowwi l
    lyougetover
    theloveofyourli
    fe?
    Athi
    :Idon'
    tknowbutatsomepoi
    ntI
    '
    llhav
    e
    to.
    Chr
    is:
    Idon'
    twi
    sht
    obey
    ouman.
    At
    hi:
    i
    fonl
    yIdi
    dn'
    ttaket
    hatt
    ender
    .
    Chris:
    l
    ikey
    ousaid,
    itwasanimpor
    tant
    tendersowhatdoneisdone.
    At
    hi:
    yeahneh
    Tom:
    Zugobuddy
    ,wher
    eyouat
    ?
    Athi:
    he'
    sbeenquietev
    ersi
    nceyouguy
    sgot
    here,
    Iwonderwhat'
    swrongwit
    hhim.
    Tom snapshi
    sfinger
    sinfr
    ontofhi
    m and
    Zugobli
    nksshakinghi
    shead.
    Tom:whati
    supwi
    thy
    ou?Di
    dZ'
    yandadump
    you?
    Zugo:
    *si
    ghs*
    no
    Chr
    is:
    thenwhat
    'st
    hemat
    ter
    ?
    Zugo:
    I'
    m goi
    ngt
    obeaf
    ather
    .
    Theot
    herguy
    slookathi
    minshock.
    Zugo:
    youdi
    djusthearwhatIj
    ustsai
    dri
    ght
    ?
    Tom:
    Idon'
    tthi
    nkIdi
    d,comeagai
    n
    Zugo:Z'
    yandai
    spr
    egnant
    ,Iam goi
    ngt
    obe
    afatheri
    n8months.
    Theysti
    ll
    remainquietl
    ooki
    ngathi
    mf ora
    goodminute,
    thenoutofnowher
    etheyjump
    onhim whist
    li
    ng.
    Zugo:
    *laughi
    ng*t
    hefuckguy
    sdoyouwant
    toki
    ll
    mebef oreImeetmybaby
    .
    Chr
    is:
    chi
    l
    ldudey
    ourt
    imehasn'
    tcamey
    et.
    Theygetof
    fhi
    m.
    Tom:
    thi
    scal
    l
    sforacel
    ebr
    ati
    on
    Zugo:
    andI'mthi
    nki
    ngofaski
    ngf
    orherhand
    i
    nmar r
    iage.
    Tom:
    yea.
    .Wai
    tWhat
    !?!


    Fewweeksl
    ater

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ithinktimei sgoingwayt of astbutI'


    m not
    compl aining,Wandi l
    ehasf i
    nall
    ycameout
    ofhi di
    ngandgav ehi sfatherachanceand
    from whatI '
    vehear dfr
    om MJt heyhav ea
    reall
    ygr eatbondt ogether .Tashahasn't
    choseonwhoshewi ll
    bewi thshe'sj
    ust
    playingf arawayf rom bothguy sIwonder
    forhowl ong,whoknowmay betheboth
    guy shav eal r
    eadymov edonbutIhope
    ev er
    y t
    hingt urnsoutoki nt heend,Zugois
    get t
    ingmar ri
    edonMar chI '
    m sohappyf or
    him,andsoonhewi l
    lbeaf at
    her,Imethis
    fi
    ance2weeksagoandIhav etosay
    Z'yandai sbeaut i
    fulsheal sohasdi mples
    l
    ikeZugo, she'saniceper sonwi thagreat
    personalityandshehasal soj oi
    nedour
    squad.Thent her e'
    sme, Tashaandmom
    outdonet hei rsel vesont heweddi ng
    preparationsIev enboughtadr essandMJ
    hissuitonl yt of i
    ndoutt hatt heAv atar
    Queensdonotgr antt othewhi t
    eweddi ng
    andIonl yf oundoutaboutt hat2day sago
    whenIgother eint hepal acecany ou
    i
    magi ne,If oundoutaboutt haton
    Christmasei sobasi callywhatI 'mt ryi
    ngt o
    sayist hatt herewi ll
    benowhi te
    weddi ng,todayi st he27t hofDecemberand
    tomor rowi st heweddi ngday ,t
    hetraditional
    weddi ngandwhenIr eturnt oJo'bur gme
    andMJwi llgot ocour ttosi gn,t
    hisi s
    defi
    nitelynothowmydr eam weddi nggoes,I
    j
    ustcan' twai tf ort hi
    sbor i
    ngweddi ngto
    end,andIhopeev er yt
    hinggoessmoot hin
    myl if
    eaf tert hisweddi ng,rightnowI '
    m with
    mom, Tasha,SneandZ'yandawear ein,wel
    l
    thi
    swasact uall
    ydadandSi pho'sescape
    room astheycall
    edit,i
    tiswherethey
    usuall
    yhangouttodoandt alkaboutman
    stuf
    fsbutmom t urnedthisroom intoa
    walkincloset,
    dadhasn'tevenrealized
    that
    ..
    ..
    sowear epi
    ckinganat ti
    refor
    tomorrow.
    Mom:
    sowhataboutt
    hisone?
    Me:
    i
    t'
    suhi
    t'
    stoomuch.
    She'
    shol
    dingabeaut
    ifulAfri
    canreddr
    ess
    wit
    hbeadsall
    overi
    t,
    itjustwaytoomuch.
    Mom:
    butIt
    hinki
    t'
    sbeaut
    if
    ul
    Me:
    andi
    twi
    l
    lsur
    elookbeaut
    if
    ulony
    ounot
    me
    Z'
    yanda:
    whataboutt
    hisone?
    Me:
    agr
    eendr
    ess?Ser
    iousl
    y?
    Z'
    yanda:
    buti
    t'
    sbeaut
    if
    ul
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    lnotwearagr
    eendr
    essZ'
    yanda.
    Shesulksmaki
    ngSneandTashagi
    ggl
    eey
    pregnancy
    .
    Mom:sunfl
    owert
    heweddi
    ngistomor
    rowi
    n
    caseyoudi
    dn'
    tcheckt
    hecal
    endar
    Me:
    i
    sn'
    tther
    eabl
    ackdr
    essher
    e?
    Tasha:
    her
    ewego,
    whati
    supwi
    thy
    ouand
    bl
    ack?
    Me:
    blacki
    sbeaut
    if
    ul.
    Sheroll
    shereyesandcont i
    nuelooki
    ngfor
    adress,
    thenNcami walksi
    nholdingthe
    mostbeautif
    uldr
    essIhav eeverseentr
    ust
    meI'm notafanwhenitcomest odresses
    butthi
    soneisperfect
    .
    Mom:
    WoW*
    looki
    ngatt
    hedr
    ess*
    Ithi
    nk
    we'
    vef
    oundt
    her
    ightdr
    essf
    ory
    oubaby
    .
    Ncami:
    *gi
    ggl
    es*
    youmeanIhav
    efoundt
    he
    r
    ightdr
    ess.
    Me:
    ohmygodmahi
    t'
    sgor
    geous
    Ncami
    :
    Ihadi
    tmadej
    ustf
    ory
    ou.
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuch.
    Sot hedressisanof fshouldermermai d
    dress,i
    t'
    siri
    sbl uefrom theupperbodyt o
    thekneesandf rom thekneestothetaili
    tis
    orangeuhf i
    reor angeandont hearmsi tis
    anetwi t
    hami xtureofiri
    sblueandfir
    e
    orange..
    onbot hsidesf r
    om thearmpitpart
    tothetailt
    herear eli
    ttl
    ebeadswhi t
    e,yel
    low
    andr edi
    ncolourt henint hemiddl
    efrom
    thechesttobot tom thereareMJ'sspots.
    Ncami:
    youratt
    ir
    ehadt ohav
    ethecolour
    sof
    t
    hefourelements.
    .i
    ri
    sbluef
    orwaterand
    or
    angef
    orf
    ir
    e.
    Me:
    whataboutSoi
    l
    &RocksandAi
    r.
    Ncami:t
    henecklaceIgavetoyouyester
    day
    wil
    lsymboli
    zethesoilandthecrownthat
    you'
    ll
    recei
    vetomor r
    owwi l
    lsymboli
    zethe
    r
    ocks.
    Me:
    Air
    ?
    Ncami:ai
    riscol
    our
    lessohl
    ookatt
    heback
    ofthedress.
    Sheturnsi
    taround,
    there'
    sal
    i
    ttl
    edesi
    gni
    t'
    s
    ajaguarwear
    ingacr own.
    Me:
    i
    t'
    sbeaut i
    ful
    andelegantbutwai
    twhat
    i
    fMJpi cksanatt
    ir
    ethatwon'tmat
    chwit
    h
    mydress.
    Ncami
    :don'
    tworr
    yaboutthat
    ,i
    thasal
    ready
    beent
    akencareoffandmayIspeakwit
    h
    youpr
    ivat
    ely
    Me:
    uhy
    eahsur
    e,l
    et'
    susemyr
    oom.
    Shehandsmom t
    hedr
    essandwewal
    kout
    goi
    ngtomyroom.
    Ncami:
    soaftertomorrowy ou'l
    lbeoff
    ici
    all
    y
    anAvat
    arQueen, you'
    l
    lbeabl etoface
    what
    everobstacleyou'l
    lface.
    Me:Idon'
    tl
    iket
    hewayy
    ousayt
    hatbuty
    eah
    Iguess.
    Ncami
    :
    itseemsli
    keyouhav
    eanenemy
    whowantsyoudead.
    Me:
    *shocked*
    WHAT?
    !
    Her
    :yeah
    Me:butIhav
    enev
    erwrongedany
    one,
    who
    wouldwantmedead?
    Her:
    Ial
    sodonotknowbutthatper
    sonisf
    or
    youtof
    indoutwhoheorsheisandall
    Ican
    sayis,
    Becar
    eful
    mychi
    l
    dthi
    swon'
    tbean
    easyfi
    ght
    .
    Me:whyshoul
    dIbecar
    eful
    ,becauseI
    '
    mthe
    onewhohaspowersher
    e.
    Her
    :*si
    ghs*
    thi
    sper
    sonappear
    stohav
    e
    gut
    sandisnowdanger
    ous.
    Me:
    whatdoy
    oumean?
    Her:
    thi
    sper
    sonwenttothedarkf
    orestand
    ki
    ll
    edacheetahoft
    hedarkfor
    est
    .
    Me:waitwaitwai
    t,peoplearenomat chf
    ora
    j
    aguar,
    MJt obespeci fi
    candMj i
    snomat ch
    fort
    heanimalsoft hedarkforestasyou
    oncesaidsotell
    met hi
    swhatki ndof
    humanwal ksinthedarkf or
    estanddoesn't
    getki
    ll
    edbutdoest heki l
    l
    ing?
    Her
    :Idonotknowmychil
    dbutwhatIknow
    i
    sthat,
    thatper
    sonki
    l
    ledt
    hecheet
    ahjustso
    heorshecoul
    dtakei
    tshear
    t
    Me:
    whywoul
    dtheyneedacheet
    ah'
    shear
    t?
    Her
    :tomakethem st
    rongerandt
    rustme
    dar
    kenergyi
    sv er
    ystrong.
    Me:butwhocouldthatbe?Andwhatisi
    t
    thatIhavedonet
    ot hem t
    omakeem want
    tokil
    lmeandwhyt ellmetodaywhenmy
    weddingistomorr
    ow, nowIwon'
    tbeabl
    eto
    concentr
    ateonit
    .
    Her:
    I'
    mt el
    li
    ngy
    ousoy
    oucouldbe
    aware,
    whoknowsmaybet
    hisper
    sonmi
    ght
    showupt omor
    row
    Me:
    you'
    reonl
    yst
    ressi
    ngmemor
    e.
    Whati
    fthi
    spersondoescomet
    omor
    row
    andki
    ll
    sme..
    .andmostofal
    lWHOCOULD
    ITBE?
    ?
    Coul
    ditbeVuy
    iswa?ButSi
    phosai
    dI
    shoul
    dn'tworryaboutherbutagainwhatif
    i
    t'
    sher ?Thefactthatt
    hispersonismore
    dangerousthanMj andtheanimalsofthe
    darkforest
    sfreaksmeout .Ij
    ustprayand
    hopethatinnocentpeopl
    edonotgethur t
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t50~

    °
    MJ°

    Asifmybabyhasn'tbeenthroughenough
    shegetsanenemy ,
    wellIt
    hinkthatenemy
    doesn'
    tknowmecauseI '
    l
    lbedamnoutof
    mymi ndifIl
    etherorhi
    ml ayasinglefi
    nger
    onmywi fe"t
    obe".
    Khaya:
    comeondudedon'tt
    ell
    mey
    ouar
    e
    st
    il
    lthi
    nki
    ngaboutt
    his"
    enemy"
    Me:
    *speaki
    ngt
    hroughmyt
    eet
    h*Khay
    amy
    women'sli
    fei
    si ndanger,
    someoneout
    t
    her
    ei sbayi
    ngf ormylady'
    sbl
    ood!.
    (It
    hrow
    t
    heglassagainstthewallf
    eel
    i
    nganger
    t
    aki
    ngov er
    )
    Khaya:ohnonononott odayMJ,i
    t'
    syour
    weddingdaycalm down,not
    hingwi
    llhappen
    toMbal i
    bothofuswill
    makesur eofitnow
    comeonwehav etogo.
    He'
    sri
    ghtIhav
    etocal
    m down.
    Me:*
    taki
    ngadeepbr eat
    h*t
    hisi
    sfrust
    rat
    ing,
    i
    fonlyIknowwhothisenemyisthenthi
    ngs
    woul
    dbeal oteasi
    er.
    Hi
    m:y
    eaht
    rue.
    Me:
    ohkl
    et'
    sgo*
    Ist
    andup*
    Hi
    m:y
    ougoty
    ourgunr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    Iwoul
    dn'
    tl
    eav
    eit
    .
    Meandmyf ami
    lyhavebeenusingt
    he
    pal
    acel
    odgecausewehadt obeatthe
    pal
    acegr
    oundsforsomereason.
    Me:
    wher
    e'sWandi
    ?
    Hi
    m:al
    readyatt
    heweddi
    ngv
    enue
    Me:*
    chuckli
    ng*wear
    eal
    readyi
    nthe
    weddingvenue
    Hi
    m:aghy
    ouknowwhatImean.
    Ncami :
    ohsonI'
    vebeenl
    ooki
    ngf
    or
    you,
    pleasefol
    l
    owmesowecanst ar
    t.
    Khaya:
    andtrytor
    elaxabi
    tok,
    nowl
    etme
    golookforsomefood.
    Hewal ksaway ,
    theweddinghasn'teven
    star
    tedy etbuthe'
    salr
    eadylookingfor
    food..
    ..
    Ifoll
    owncami towheretheweddi ng
    will
    takeplace,t
    hispal
    acehasar eall
    yhuge
    openspaceawhol ecommunitycouldfit
    her
    eanditl
    ooksl
    iketheroy
    alsoftheot
    her
    ki
    ngdomshavearr
    ived.
    .wewalkt
    owhat
    l
    ooksli
    ke2thr
    ones.
    Ncami:
    youshal
    lsi
    ther
    eandwai
    tfory
    our
    br
    ide.
    Me:
    butthese2thronesl
    ookoutofsi
    ght
    f
    rom t
    heaudience.
    Ncami:*
    sighs*theseQueensaremakingtoo
    muchdemandsbuti tisf
    orthebestandI
    bel
    iev
    et hatsomet hi
    ngwil
    lhappenduri
    ng
    thi
    sweddi ng.
    Me:
    badorgood?
    Her:
    Ican'
    ttel
    l,
    nowpleasetakeaseatsoI
    canlett
    herestofourguest
    sin.
    Isi
    ghandtakeaseatasshewalksaway
    well
    thedecordoesseem r
    eal
    lybeauti
    ful
    andIhaveseenalotofweddi
    ngs,
    tradi
    ti
    onal
    weddi ngst omor especi ficbutIhav enev er
    seenaweddi ngt hati sl
    iket hisit'
    sdi f
    ferent
    verydi ff
    er ent,fr
    om wher eI '
    m seat edIcan
    seet heguest swal kinginsi ngingt r
    aditional
    songsbutIdon' tthinktheycanseemepl us
    I'
    m notr eal lyfocusedont hem I '
    m onl y
    l
    ooki ngf or war dtoseei ngLenhl eIhav en't
    seenhersi nceChr istmas.Icanal soseemy
    familywi thKhay ahol di
    ngwhatl ooksl ikea
    plateohgodt hebr othery ougav emeIcan
    alsoseeChr isandt heguy s,sorr
    yIhav et o
    sayt his,
    thi sthronei ssogoddamn
    comf or t
    abl eandwoah. ..w..she..
    uhm
    L..what '
    st hewor dy ouusef ormor ethan
    beaut i
    ful?Mor ethangor geous?Okybr eat h
    MJbr eath, Lenhleiswal kingt owardsme
    withherf ami lyandsomeot hergir
    lssingi ng
    somet radi ti
    onal songI '
    m notr eall
    ypay ing
    toomuchat tentiont oit
    ,mywhol eattention
    i
    sont hisbeaut i
    fulladywhosef aceIcan't
    seeofcour se, herdr essisdoingwonder s
    forherbody ,
    everyonest andsupj oiningi
    n
    thesinging,shouldIal sost andup?OhI
    guessnotcausei tseemsl i
    keI'
    m st uckon
    thisthroneandf orsomer easonI'm not
    panicking.Themor eandmor esheget s
    closerthemor emysmi legr ows.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Mbal enhl
    ekeepswal ki
    ngt owhatlooksl
    ike
    astagebuty oucan'tseemuchf r
    om where
    she'sat,t
    hel
    adieswi t
    hkeepssi ngi
    ngand
    doingsomet radi
    ti
    onal dances.
    Lenhl
    e:*
    hol
    dinghermom'shand*t
    hisi
    sthe
    mostbeaut
    if
    ulunusual
    tradi
    ti
    onal
    weddingI
    hav
    eev
    erseen.
    L.Mom:*gi
    ggl
    es*youcansayt
    hatagai
    nand
    youareanAfr
    icanwomensomov ealit
    tl
    e.
    Lenhl
    echuckl esandfocusesonthesong
    andfindsthebeatasshest ar
    tsmovingher
    bodyalongwi tht
    hesongl i
    keanAfri
    can
    womenshei smakingMJf all
    inl
    oveall
    overagain.
    Ncami:
    *bows*myQueenI'
    ll
    takei
    tfr
    om
    her
    e,l
    adi
    eskeepsi
    nging.
    Ncami t
    akesMbal i'
    shandandt akeshert o
    MJwhoi snowbr eathl
    esslookingathis
    queenwhi l
    eLenhl ereturnsthelookfil
    l
    ed
    wit
    hl ove,shet akesaseatwi thhereyesnot
    l
    eavingMJ' swhoi sseati
    ngproudlyont he
    thr
    oneandwhol ookssohandsomei nhi s
    att
    ir
    ei tl
    ikei twasmadej ustforhim
    onl
    y,Ncami takesMJ' shandanduni tesit
    wi
    thLenhl
    e'
    s.
    Ncami
    :donotl etgoofeachot hershands
    nomatterwhat ,
    you'
    llonlyletgooncet he
    j
    aguar
    sgr antuswi t
    ht heirpresence.
    Lenhlenodswi
    thhereyesst
    il
    lst
    uckon
    MJ'seyesandNcami wal
    ksaway,l
    eavi
    ng
    thetwolovebi
    rdsst
    ari
    ngateachother
    .
    MJ:youl
    ookmagni
    fi
    cent
    *hebl
    urt
    sthat
    out
    *
    Lenhl
    e:*
    blushi
    ng*
    thanky
    ou,
    youal
    sol
    ook
    magnif
    icent
    MJ:Idon'
    tknowifit
    'smebutt
    hewayyour
    ey
    essparkletodayi
    snotl
    iket
    heot
    herdays
    Lenhl
    e:i
    nagoodwayorbad?
    MJ:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    good.
    Thesi
    ngi
    ngst
    opsast
    heexchangi
    ngof
    gi
    ftsst
    art
    sbet
    weent
    heMkhi
    ze'
    sandt
    he
    Mthembu'
    s.
    Lenhl
    e:*
    sighs*
    Ireal
    l
    ywi
    shSi
    phowasher
    e.
    Thecer
    emonycont
    inues.
    MJ:soal
    lwehavet
    odoisjustsi
    ther
    eand
    wat
    chevery
    oneenj
    oyi
    ngt
    hemselves?
    Lenhl
    e:seemsl
    i
    kei
    t.
    Thensuddenl
    ythej
    aguarsmakean
    ent
    ranceandNcamifeel
    sthei
    rpresence
    andaskevery
    onetoremainqui
    et.
    Sol
    etmei
    ntr
    oducet
    heot
    hert
    woj
    aguar
    s.
    WehaveQaphel
    atheKi
    ng'
    sjaguarbutt
    hey
    cal
    lhi
    m Que.
    Weal
    sohav
    eSpi
    ket
    heQueen'
    sjaguar
    .
    The3jaguar
    swalkwit
    hthei
    rheadshel
    dup
    hi
    gh,
    withQueleadi
    ngt
    hem,t
    heywalkto
    wher eLenhleandMJar eseat ed,t
    heybot h
    standupst illholdingt heirhandst he3
    j
    aguar sbowbef oret hem andacr own
    appearsonMj t
    hej aguar '
    shead, MJ
    suddenlylet'sgoofLenhl e'shandashe
    feelssomet hingt aki ngov erhisbodyhe' s
    awar eofwhati shappeni ngandatt he
    samet imei t'
    sl i
    kehe' snothi mself,he
    walkstot hef loatingcr ownwel ltohimi tis
    fl
    oatingcausehecannotseeMj t
    he
    j
    aguar .
    .hetakest hecr ownandl ookst r
    aight
    toLenhle'sey esashepl acesi tnicelyon
    herhead,thenLenhl estartsf eel
    ingfunnyas
    thebeautifuldr awi ngsappearal loverher
    bodyandst artst ogl owast hemoon, MJ
    holdsbothofLenhl e'
    shandsst i
    llfacingher
    asherey esal sogl owsl i
    ghtast hemoon.
    Guest
    sstr
    etchest
    heirneckswonder
    ing
    what'
    sgoi
    ngonsincetheyseetoomuch
    l
    ightwher
    ethegr
    oom andbr
    idear
    eseat
    ed
    at.
    Khaya:
    ahwhat
    'sgoi
    ngonupt
    her
    e?Ican'
    t
    see
    St
    he:i
    ncaseyouhav
    en'
    tnot
    icedKhay
    awe
    al
    lcan'
    tsee.
    Khay
    a:aghl
    etmegetacl
    oserl
    ook.
    Khayast andsupwal ki
    ngtowardsthe
    glowinglight
    ,themomentheseesLenhl e'
    s
    dreadlocksfl
    oat i
    ngonair(
    wellt
    hebackof
    herdreadlockssinceshehasthecrown
    on)andhergl owingeyeswhicharehardto
    notnot i
    cehequi ckl
    ytur
    nsbackgoingtohis
    seat.
    Sel
    ena:
    and?What
    'sgoi
    ngont
    her
    e?
    Khayaj
    ustrockshi
    supperbodybackand
    for
    thwonderi
    ngwhattheheckdi
    dhejust
    see.
    Khaya'
    sdad:
    sonwhat
    'swr
    ong?Whatdi
    d
    yousee?
    Khay
    a:I
    '
    m uhI
    '
    m notsur
    e
    Sthe:
    you'
    renotsur
    e?Thenwhydi
    dyou
    comebackquickasli
    ghtni
    ng?
    Khay
    a:ei
    ani
    ngi
    yeke(
    leav
    emeal
    one)
    Wandi
    :
    *chuckl
    es*
    youl
    ookt
    raumat
    ized
    Khaya:
    whatpar
    tofl
    eav
    emeal
    onedon'
    t
    youhear
    Wandi
    :Iguessal
    lofi
    t,
    comeonbr
    otel
    lme
    whaty
    ousaw
    Khay
    a:Isawnot
    hing.
    Wandi l
    echuckl
    esshaki
    nghisheadand
    focusesontheli
    ghtasitsl
    owlyfadesaway
    .
    Lenhlegoesbacktohernormalselfst
    il
    l
    hol
    dinghandswit
    hMJwhoisl
    ooki
    ngdeep
    i
    ntohereyesandwhoi
    sal
    sobackt
    ohis
    nor
    mal sel
    f.
    Lenhle:
    whatwr
    ong,
    whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngat
    mel i
    kethat
    ?
    MJ:Ij
    ustneedyoutosayt
    het
    wowor
    ds
    andIshal
    ldoasyousay
    Lenhl
    e:*
    conf
    used*
    uhwhatt
    wowor
    ds?
    MJ:Ican'
    ttel
    lyou,
    theyhav
    etocomeoutof
    yourmouth
    Lenhl
    e:butIdon'
    tknowwhaty
    ouar
    etal
    ki
    ng
    about
    .
    Mj t
    hejaguarpl
    aceshi
    spawonLenhle'
    s
    footasshe'
    snotweari
    nganyshoes
    connecti
    ngtoherandLenhl
    eimmediat
    ely
    getsthetwowordsshe'
    ssupposet
    osay .
    Lenhl
    e:UnmaskMe
    MJ:
    wit
    hpl
    easur
    e.
    MJl et'
    sgoofherhandsandsl owly
    r
    emov esthemaskonLenhl e'
    sface
    r
    ev eali
    ngt hebeauti
    fulfacehe'
    sbeen
    yearningtosee,hedr opsthemaskand
    r
    unshi shandsalloverherfaceandLenhl
    e
    f
    eel sreli
    efwashingalloverheratt
    hefact
    t
    hatt hemaski sfinal
    lyoffher.
    MJ:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    hi
    Lenhl
    e:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    hey
    MJ'shandsmovestoherwaisthol
    dingher
    cl
    osertohi
    m asherhandsgoesaroundhis
    neck.
    MJ:I
    '
    vebeendy
    ingt
    oseet
    hatbeaut
    if
    ul
    smi
    l
    e.
    Lenhl
    eblushesthenoutofnowhereMJ
    att
    acksherwithakisswhichi
    sslowand
    tenderandsopassionate,
    aft
    ersomegood
    2mi nutest
    heybreakthekisssmil
    ingat
    eachother,
    Mjthejaguargoesaround
    Lenhlepushi
    ngherlegs.
    Lenhl
    e:It
    hinki
    t'
    sti
    meweshowour
    sel
    vest
    o
    ourguest.
    Theyholdhandsandf oll
    owt he3j aguars
    walki
    ngt owardstheguestsandt heguests
    st
    artsululat
    ingthemomentt heyseet he
    bri
    deandgr oom andforthe2f amili
    esthei
    r
    j
    awsdr opast heyseeLenhlewithoutthe
    maskon.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t51~

    #Nar
    rar
    ed
    Khay
    a:bu.
    .y
    o..
    I.
    .h.
    .
    Lenhle'sdad:
    Ithi
    nkwhatKhay
    aist
    ryi
    ngt
    o
    sayis,how?When?
    Lenhl
    e:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    MJt
    ooki
    tof
    fabouta
    minut
    eago.
    Khay
    a:buthow?
    Lenhl
    e:st
    oryforl
    ater
    ,nowl
    et'
    senj
    oyt
    her
    est
    oftheweddingpl
    ease.
    Wandi:
    isi
    tmeordoy
    oul
    ookev
    enmor
    e
    beaut
    if
    ul
    MJ:
    watchi
    t*hesay
    sthatwi
    thast
    rai
    ght
    f
    ace*
    Wandi
    :
    *chuckl
    es*
    what
    ,am Inotal
    l
    owedt
    o
    compl
    i
    menthernow
    MJ:
    no
    Wandi
    :
    b..
    .
    Lenhl
    e:and.
    ..
    mov
    ingon.
    .
    .

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ihavetosaymar ri
    edli
    feisnotbadatal l
    i
    nfactit
    'samazing,
    MJorshoul dIsaymy
    husbandistreat
    ingmesowel lpeople,I
    'm
    evenglowingandhe'soverprot
    ecti
    v e,
    when
    wecamebackf rom t
    hevil
    lagewewent
    str
    aighttosi
    gnourmar ri
    agecert
    ifi
    cates
    andwentt ohis/
    ourhouseandont hatday
    hetookmyi nnocenceyerr
    rIknowt hatI'
    m
    usedt ofeelingpainbutt hatwasmuch
    worseandIswor etonev ereverhaves*x
    everagainbutmyswear i
    ngdi sappearedin
    tothinairthatshitisamazi ngnxxany way
    sothe" enemy "isstil
    llayinglowIwonder
    why ,
    Ncami tol
    dmet oal way sbeawar e
    causehe/ shemi ghtat tackoutofnowher e
    butIdidn'ttellMJt hatcausehewoul dhav e
    gottenbody guardsf ormesomet hi
    ngI'm
    real
    lynotlooki ngforwar dto.Tot opthatall
    outI'm ali
    t t
    lescaredcauseIdon' tknow
    whent hatenemymi ghtat t
    ackbutIdon' t
    wantbody guards.
    MJ:
    Babe!
    !
    Me:
    Kit
    chen!
    !
    Hecomestothekitchenwi
    thadashing
    smil
    eweari
    nghissuit,
    ahhj
    ustt
    hesiteof
    hi
    m makesmebl ush.Hehugsmefrom the
    behi
    ndandki
    ssesmycheek.
    Hi
    m:goodmor
    ningwi
    fey
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    mor
    ninghoney
    Hi
    m:i
    sthatbr
    eakf
    astf
    orme?
    Me:y
    eahit
    'ssupposetobebr
    eakf
    aston
    bedbuty
    our ui
    nedit
    Him:y
    oushoul
    dhav
    etol
    dmenott
    ocome
    outofbed.
    Me:
    tr
    ustmeitwoul
    dn'
    thav
    ebeen
    r
    omanti
    cal
    l
    y.
    Him:*
    kissesme*wel
    lI'
    m sor
    rymylovebutI
    havetorushtoameeti
    ng,whatar
    eyour
    pl
    ansfortoday?
    Me:
    uhm Iuh.
    .
    Hi
    m:Mbal
    enhl
    e
    Me:
    I'
    mjustgoi
    ngshoppi
    ngwi
    thZ'
    yanda,
    I'
    ll
    besaf
    e
    Him:nocancel
    thosepl
    ansandst
    ayat
    home,meandZugowi l
    ltakey
    out
    woout
    shoppi
    ngonSat ur
    day.
    Me:
    nowear
    egoi
    ngt
    oday
    .
    Hesl
    owl
    yletgoofmeandIt
    urnf
    aci
    nghi
    m.
    Hi
    m:whydoy
    oualway
    shavetodisagr
    ee
    wi
    thmeuh?Whyareyousost
    ubborn?
    Me:Idonotal
    waysdi
    sagr
    eewi
    thy
    ouand
    I
    'm notst
    ubbor
    n.
    Hi
    m:youseewhatI
    '
    mtal
    kingabout
    ?You'
    re
    di
    sagr
    eei
    ngwit
    hwhatIj
    ustsai
    d
    Me:
    I.
    .
    Him:
    Isai
    dcancelyourpl
    ansandst
    ayat
    home*hesay
    sthatcalml
    y*
    Me:
    butI
    ..
    Hi
    m:Mbal
    enhl
    eIwil
    lnotsaythatagai
    n,
    just
    t
    hisonet
    imeLenhl
    epleasedoasIsayok.
    Hebabyki ssesmeandl eav e,hisfacei s
    writ
    tenpissedal litbuthehast ofor giveme
    causeIpr omi sedZ' y
    andat hatIwi ll goout
    shoppingwi thhert oday ,
    she' sinherf if
    th
    mont hbyt hewayandnextmont hshe' s
    getti
    ngmar ri
    ed,meandTashawi llplanher
    babyshowerwhenshe' satherhoney moon
    butfir
    stweneedt ogeti ncont actwi t
    hher
    otherfr
    iendsandIser i
    ousl ydon' tknowhow
    causeshehasnev erspokenofherf ri
    ends
    beforeplusIcan' tjustaskf orherf riends'
    number scauset hatwi l
    lraiser edf lags
    she'l
    laskt oomanyquest ions. Ont heot her
    handTashast i
    lldoesn' twantt ochoosebut
    Ithi
    nksheal r
    eadyknowswhoshewant st
    o
    bewi t
    hitjustt hatshedoesn' twantt ohurt
    thefeeli
    ngsoft heot herguyandt hebot h
    guy sarest il
    lsinglemeani ngt heyar ebot h
    wai ti
    ngforherandwhi chal someansAt hi
    foundoutt hatTashai snoti nany
    relati
    onshi peyIwonderwhi chguydoesher
    hear tdesireandonmysi deIwi shedt hat
    shecoul dj uststartaf reshandf ind
    someonenewbecauseIf eel l
    ikeifshe
    picksAt hiKhay awi l
    lnev erbecomf or
    table
    i
    nAt hi
    'spr esenceandi fshepi cksKhay a
    Athi wil
    lalsonev erbecomf ortablein
    Khay a'spresencet hingswi llbeawkwar d
    bet weent hem sost arti
    ngaf r
    eshcoul dbea
    l
    ittlegoodbuty oucan' treallydisagreewi t
    h
    thehear tsoi t'
    supt oher, any wayl etme
    j
    usteatt hisbreakf astandgetr eady.
    .
    °
    MJ°
    Me:gentl
    ementhi
    sisall
    wear eoff
    eri
    ngi
    t
    ei
    theryoutakei
    toryouleav
    eit.
    MrPal
    mer
    :andwhati
    fwel
    eav
    eit
    ?
    MrJor
    dan:
    Mar
    ti
    n!*
    hehal
    fshoutoutt
    hat
    *
    MrPalmer:
    what?Ifweagreewewil
    lbe
    worki
    ngtoget
    heritwi
    ll
    be50/50%sohe
    can'
    tj
    ustsayitl
    i
    kethathehastoshow
    somerespect
    .
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkyou'
    vej
    ustmadeamist
    akeor
    maybeyoudi
    dn'
    tgothr
    ought
    hecont
    racti
    t
    i
    s75/25%
    MrPalmer:
    That
    'sj
    ustbul
    l
    shi
    t!
    !Whymust
    youget75%
    Me:fi
    rstofally
    ouwi l
    lnotspeaktomei n
    thatmanner,
    Imi ghtbeyoungert
    hanyou
    butthatdoesn'
    tmeany oushouldspeakto
    mel i
    kethat.
    .doy oual
    sotalktomyfatheri
    n
    t
    hatmanner
    ?*gi
    vi
    nghi
    m oneofmydeadl
    y
    l
    ooks*
    MrPal
    mer
    :*cl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *no
    Me: ohsowheny ouseemey ouseea
    weakl i
    ng?Li stenhereIshouldbebackat
    theLawf irm worki
    ngoncasesnother e
    handl i
    ngt hi
    smeet ingbutmyf athergot
    caughtupsomewher edoi ngsomet hing
    mor eimpor tantthanthi
    sbutbecausehe
    didn'twantt opostponethi smeet i
    nghe
    askedmet ocomeher ey oushoul dbe
    honor edthatIcameandsecondl yy oudon'
    t
    gett odemand50%becausei tisour
    resour cesthatwillbeusednoty ours.
    MrJordan:pl
    easefor
    giv
    emypartnerher
    e,I
    apol
    ogizef
    orhisbehavi
    orandwe'
    llt
    akei
    t.
    MrPal
    meropenshi
    smout
    hbutdoesn'
    tsay
    any
    thi
    ng.
    Me:
    doy
    ouhav
    esomet
    hingt
    osay
    ?
    MrPal
    mer
    :no
    Me:youknowwhatj ustthinkaboutitcause
    i
    tseemsl ikeMrPal merher eisn'
    tcertain
    aboutthisdealanddonott akeawhol eday
    causeifyouain'tbacktomet henI'
    llbe
    for
    cedt otakethedeal t
    osomeoneel se
    nowexcusemegent l
    emenIhav eanot her
    meetingtopreparefor*standingup*
    Theybot
    hst
    andup.
    MrJor
    dan:wewi
    l
    lbeint
    ouchenj
    oyt
    her
    est
    ofy
    ourdayMrMkhi
    ze.
    Inodandtheywal
    kout,Isi
    tbackdown
    si
    ghingeisomepeopl
    el i
    ketoworkonyour
    nerv
    esfornogoodreason.
    "
    Knockknock"
    thatsoundsl
    i
    keKhay
    a.
    Hewal
    ksi
    nhol
    dingt
    akeaway
    s.
    Me:
    shoul
    dn'
    tyoubeatwor
    k?
    Him:Iwasincour
    tIf
    ini
    shedaboutanhour
    agosoIthoughtwhynotbr
    ingyoulunch*
    he
    takesaseat*
    .
    Me:
    that
    'sLenhl
    e'
    sjob
    Him:
    thensheshouldbefi
    redcauseIdon'
    t
    seeanylunchher
    emeaningsheisnot
    doi
    ngherjobproper
    ly.
    Hehandsmeat
    akeaway
    .
    Me:
    thanks,
    howi
    sst
    ayi
    ngal
    onet
    reat
    ingy
    ou?
    Him:
    don'
    tevenask,
    I
    'm ev
    ent
    hinki
    ngof
    goi
    ngbackhome.
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    itmustber
    eal
    l
    ybad.
    Ifocusont hi
    slunchthi
    nkingaboutLenhl
    e
    andherstubbornnessifonlysheknewI'm
    onlylooki
    ngoutf orher
    ,she'
    stheonewho
    didn'twantbodyguar
    dsandIrespect
    edthat
    butnowshewant stogooutwithno
    protecti
    onwhilesomeonedangerousi
    sout
    therewantingherdead.
    Khay
    a:br
    owher
    eyouat
    ?
    Me:*
    sighi
    ng*
    I'
    mjustt
    hinki
    ngmanabout
    t
    hisenemy
    Hi
    m:comeondudemaybethisper
    sonhas
    gi
    venupanddeci
    dedt
    oleaveMbalial
    one.
    Igi
    vehi
    m abor
    edf
    ace.
    Hi
    m: I
    '
    m ser
    iousdudeImeanift
    hisenemy
    wantstoat
    tackt
    henwhyishe/shenot
    at
    tacki
    ngnotdoi
    nganythi
    ng?
    Me:t
    hati
    sexact l
    ywhatf
    rust
    rat
    esmethe
    mostbecauseIdon'
    tknowwhenthi
    s
    per
    sonwillat
    tack
    Hi
    m:whati
    fthi
    sper
    sondoesn'
    tat
    tack?
    Me:youmeant ot el
    lmethaty ouwoul dgo
    tothemostdanger ousforestandki l
    la
    cheetahthentakeithear
    tf ornothi
    ng?This
    personisbrai
    nstormingapl an,aplanthat
    mightleavealotofpeoplei ntear
    s,i
    npain
    ordead.
    Him:you'
    vej
    ustr ui
    nedmyappet i
    tesi
    nce
    youaremakingsomuchsensebut
    str
    essingwon'thel
    pbecausewedon' tknow
    whothispersonisandwhent heywil
    lattack
    butwhatweknowi swhotheyareaft
    er.
    Me:MyWi
    fe.
    *Isayt
    hatl
    owl
    yfeel
    i
    ng
    def
    eat
    ed*
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    Ishoul
    dreal
    l
    ygobackhomenow
    bef
    oreMJr
    etur
    nsandf
    indmenott
    her
    e
    Z'
    yanda:
    whyi
    sthat
    ?Doesn'
    thewanty
    ou
    goi
    ngout?
    Me:
    yesbecausehef
    eel
    sli
    kei
    t'
    snotsaf
    e.
    Her:babeMJi snolongery ourboy fri
    end
    whoy oucouldjustdisagreewi thanytime
    youwanthei snowy ourhusbandy ou
    shouldlist
    entohim andobeyhi m cause
    tr
    ustmehe' sonlylookingoutf oryou,i
    fhe
    saysitisnotsafegoingoutt henitisnot
    safey oushoul
    dstayi nthehouse.
    Me:Igetthatbuthowl ongwil
    li
    ttakestil
    li
    t
    i
    ssaf eagaincauseIcan'tl
    i
    veinfearforthe
    r
    estofmyl i
    fe,
    I'
    m outheret
    odaycauseI '
    m
    t
    ir
    edofl ookingovermyshouldereveryday
    I
    'mt r
    yingtobst r
    ong.
    Her
    :youdon'
    thav
    etol
    ookov
    ery
    our
    shouldertherestofyourl
    if
    e,MJist
    hereto
    protectyouiti
    shisjobasyourhusbandso
    l
    istentohim andtrusthi
    sviews.
    Me;
    b..
    "
    Mbal
    enhl
    e"
    Iknowthatvoi
    ce,
    Itur
    nwoahIal
    mostf
    orgot
    thatheexi
    st.
    Sanel
    e:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    hi
    Me:
    hey
    *Isayt
    hatcol
    dly
    *
    Him:It
    houghti
    twasy
    ousoIj
    ustcamet
    o
    sayhi
    Me:
    ohk
    Hi
    m:youl
    ookev
    enmorebeaut
    if
    ult
    hant
    he
    l
    astt
    imeIsawyou.
    Ir
    oll
    myey
    es.
    Me:
    wehav
    etogo,
    enj
    oyt
    her
    estofy
    ourday
    .
    Hi
    m:y
    out
    oo.
    Wewal
    kaway
    .
    Z'
    yanda:
    whowast
    hat
    ?
    Me:hisnameisSanel
    eandhe'
    sst
    oryi
    sfor
    anotherday
    Her:
    Idon'
    tl
    iket
    hewayhewasl
    ooki
    ngat
    you.
    Myphoneringsbef
    oreIcoul
    drespond
    Z'
    yanda.
    .It
    'sMJ//
    Me:
    babe
    Him:Mbal
    enhl
    eyouwentoutwheni
    speci
    fi
    cal
    l
    ytol
    dyounottoo,
    what'
    ssohar
    d
    i
    ndoingastol
    duh?
    Me:
    I'
    m sosor
    rybabeI
    //
    HehangsuponmedamnI
    '
    vemessedup.
    Me:
    Ihav
    etogobabe,
    bye
    Her
    :by
    esweet
    ie
    Wehugandgooursepar
    ateway
    s.
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t52~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Bab'zondidropsmeof fathome,Ihav egot


    tolearnhowt odri
    vesoIcanhav emyown
    carnow.Imakemywayi nside,
    MJi soutof
    sightIthi
    nkhe'satthestudysinceMj the
    j
    aguari sheadedthereshouldIalsogo
    there?Nahletmecookf i
    rstI'
    l
    lapologize
    aftercooki
    ng.
    ~
    Iknockandher
    aisehi
    sheadl
    ooki
    ngatme
    wi
    thast
    rai
    ghtf
    ace.
    Me:
    Supper
    'sr
    eady
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m nothungr
    y.
    Hegoesbacktohi
    spaper
    wor
    k,Isi
    ghand
    wal
    kinthensi
    tacr
    osshi
    m.
    Me:
    maywet
    alk?
    Hesi
    ghsandrestbackonhi
    schai
    rthen
    l
    ooksatme.
    Me:babeI
    'm sor
    ry,
    Ishoul
    dn'
    thav
    e
    di
    sobeyedyouI'
    mr eal
    lysor
    ry
    Hi
    m:why
    ?
    Me:
    uh?
    Him:
    atthi
    spointI'
    m confusedonwho'
    sthe
    maninthi
    smar ri
    age,
    whenwecameback
    fr
    om thevi
    l
    lageItol
    dy outhatIwi
    l
    lgetyou
    body
    guardsjustsoyoucanbesafebutyou
    tur
    nedthatdownandIsai doknowy ou
    wanttogoar oundwit
    houtpr otect
    ion
    knowingverywellt
    hatsomeone' soutther
    e
    wanti
    ngy oudead,y
    ouar emaki ngmy
    pri
    ori
    tyofkeepingyousaf eatallt
    imes
    dif
    fi
    cult
    ,whycan'tyourespectmeanddo
    asIsaymustIr ai
    semyv oicesoyoucan
    hearmeanddoasIsay ?
    Il
    ookdownpl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thmyhands.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    ry.
    Hi
    m:bysay
    ingsor
    rywhatexact
    lydoy
    ou
    mean?
    Me:Iagreewheny ousayI'm stubborn,
    I
    agreewiththefactt
    hatIalway sdisagr
    ee
    wit
    hy ou,Iagr
    eewiththefactthatIwas
    wrongandi twil
    lneverhappenagai n
    Hi
    m:*
    rai
    singhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    promi
    se?
    Me:
    Ipr
    omi
    se
    Hi
    m:meani
    ngIcannowgety
    oubody
    guar
    ds?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    yeah
    Hel
    etsoutasmi
    l
    e.
    Hi
    m:youtal
    kedaboutSupper
    ,Iam
    st
    arv
    ing*
    standi
    ngup*
    Me:
    buty
    ousai
    dyou'
    renothungr
    ymos.
    Him:Iwasangr
    yandnowI
    '
    m cool
    let
    'sgo
    eat.
    Ichuckleandst
    andupaswewal
    koutof
    hisstudy.
    Hi
    m:ohI
    '
    v ebeenmeaningt
    oasky
    oui
    fyou
    ar
    ecomfort
    ableher
    e?
    Me:
    I'
    m wi
    thy
    ouobv
    iousl
    yI'
    m comf
    ort
    abl
    e.
    Hesmil
    esr
    eveal
    inghi
    sper
    fectwhi
    tet
    eet
    h
    pul
    l
    ingmecl
    osertohi
    m.
    Hi
    m:howmanyt
    imesmustIt
    ell
    yout
    hat
    maki
    ngamanbl
    ushisacr
    ime.
    Ismi
    l
    epl
    aci
    ngmyhandsar
    oundhi
    sneck.
    Me:wellIguessIshoul
    dgetal
    i
    fesentence
    causeI'
    m planni
    ngonmakingyoubl
    usht he
    restofourli
    ves.
    Hi
    m:hav
    eIt
    oldy
    out
    odayhowbeaut
    if
    uly
    ou
    l
    ook?
    Me:y
    ouwer
    eangr
    ywi
    thmer
    emember
    ?So
    no
    Him:*
    chuckl
    es*
    for
    giv
    ememywi
    fe,
    youl
    ook
    beaut
    iful
    .
    Hesay
    sthatl
    ooki
    ngstrai
    ghtt
    omy
    ey
    es,
    makingmeblush.
    Me:
    thanky
    ouKhabazel
    a.
    Hi
    m:*
    closi
    nghi
    sey
    es*
    mmhh*
    openst
    hem*
    y
    ouseewhaty
    ouar
    edoi
    ngt
    ome?
    Il
    ookdown.
    Me: *gi
    ggl
    ing*Idi
    dn'
    tdoanyt
    hingt
    hat'
    sall
    you,nowlet'
    sgoeatbefor
    ethefoodgets
    cold.
    Hi
    m:wehav
    eami
    crowav
    edon'
    twe?
    Me:
    I.
    ..
    .
    Heat t
    acksmewi thakisswhichIobv i
    ousl
    y
    gl
    adlyrespondto,t
    hekissgetsheatedas
    ourtonguesfi
    ghttogetherhepi
    cksmeup
    andIcrossmyl egsaroundhiswaistnot
    breaki
    ngthekissashewal ksupthestair
    s
    goingtoourroom.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Per
    son1:
    whyhav
    en'
    tyouat
    tackedy
    et?
    Per
    son2:
    Ican'
    tat
    leastnoty
    et.
    Per
    son1:
    whatdoy
    oumean?
    Per
    son2:
    she'
    smor
    epower
    ful
    thanwet
    hink.
    Person1:
    thenwhatwasthecheet
    ah'
    shear
    t
    for
    ?Wasn' ti
    tformaki
    ngyoustr
    onger
    ?
    Per
    son2:
    itwasandyesIam st
    rongerbut
    I
    'mfarf
    rom bei
    nginherl
    evel
    .
    Per
    son1:
    *si
    ghs*
    sowhatnow?
    Per
    son2l
    etsoutami
    schi
    evoussmi
    l
    e.
    Per
    son1:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    I'
    mli
    ki
    ngt
    hewayy
    ou
    smi
    le.
    Person2:
    Ijustcamebackfr
    om our
    wit
    chdoctorshesaidi
    fshe'
    sweaktheni
    t
    wil
    lbeeasyt oatt
    ackher
    .
    Per
    son1:
    sohowdowegetherweak?
    Per
    son2:
    she'
    spr
    egnant
    .
    Per
    son1:
    whosai
    dpr
    egnantpeopl
    ear
    e
    weak?
    Person2:
    theyarenot
    ,whi
    chiswhywehave
    tomakesur eshemiscar
    ri
    esandI'
    l
    lat
    tack
    thedayshef i
    ndsout
    .
    Per
    son1:
    greatpl
    anbutonepr
    obl
    em,
    howdo
    wedothat
    ?
    Person2:t
    hewit
    chdoctorgav
    eme
    somet hi
    ngtoki
    llt
    hechildwejusthaveto
    fi
    ndsomeonewhowi l
    lgetcl
    oset oher,
    earn
    hertrustt
    hendoourev i
    lwor
    kf orus.
    Person1:
    *smi
    les*
    youdoknowt
    hatI
    '
    m
    proudtocal
    lyoumy..
    Per
    son2:y
    eahyeahIknow,
    nowletmemake
    somet
    hingtoeatIam f
    ami
    shed*st
    andsup*
    .
    #Meanwhi
    l
    e.

    Athenkosi
    laysonhi
    sbedgoingthr
    ough
    pict
    uresofhi
    m andTashat
    hinki
    ngabout
    theolddays.
    Athi:
    Imi ssy ouTeeandi t'snotf unny
    anymor e,Iwannawr it
    eImi ssy ouona
    stoneandt hrowt hatony ourf ace,soy ou
    shouldknowhowmuchi thur t
    st omissyou,
    Iknowt hatIusedt osayt hat"Iwantyout o
    behappy ,butIwanty out obehappywi th
    Me"butIt hinkthatshoul dchangenowI
    can'tchoosehappi nessf ory ou,i
    fyour
    happinessl ieswithKhay at hensobei t
    causet herei sonlyonehappi nessint hi
    s
    l
    ife,toloveandbel oved* chuckles*funny
    howIt houghtt hat '
    sus,Ilov ey ouTeeandI
    onlywantwhat 'sbestf ory ou.
    Hekissesthepi
    ctur
    et henswi
    tchoffhi
    s
    phoneandt hel
    i
    ghtthengetsi
    nsidecover
    s
    dri
    ft
    ingofftodr
    eamland.
    .
    °
    Khay
    a°

    I'
    m outsi
    deTasha'shome,ItoldherthatI
    wanttotalktoher.ShewalkstomeandI
    openthebackseatdoorf orherthengo
    aroundgoingtotheotherside.
    Me:
    hi.
    Hey
    :hey
    ,howar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Her
    :I
    'm al
    sogood.
    Me:*
    clear
    ingmythroat
    *uhm soletmeget
    st
    rai
    ghttothepoi
    nt,
    uhIfeel
    likemeand
    Athi
    havebeenputt
    ingtoomuchpr
    essur
    e
    onyouwit
    hthischoosi
    ngthi
    ng
    Her
    :I
    ..
    Me:noletmefini
    sh*
    Isi
    gh*Iknowthatyou
    sti
    ll
    lov
    eAt hi
    andIfeel
    li
    keI'
    m standi
    ngin
    yourwaya..
    Her
    :Khay
    aI.
    ..
    Me:letmef i
    nish,NatashaIl ov eyouand
    beli
    evemeIdo, Idon'tknowhoworwhen
    butbet weent heconv ersati
    onIf el
    lfor
    you,
    aftersomanyy earsmyhear tfi
    nally
    gavein, youseewhenIwas16somet hing
    happenedt omeandMJwel l
    most l
    ytoMJ
    andont hatdayMJchangedcompl etelyI
    changedwi thhim becausehechanged
    savi
    ngme, hehat edev eryt
    hingthathadt o
    dowi thfemal esev ent hought heynev erdi
    d
    anythi
    ngt ohim butIknewt hatonedayhe
    willfindsomeonewhowi ll breakal lthe
    wallsar oundhi shear t,Ialsof rozemyhear t
    becauseIsawt hatbei ngi nar elationship
    whilemybr otheri snotwi llseem sel fishof
    mecausehewasl i
    ket hatbecausehewas
    savingmewhatI '
    mt r
    y i
    ngt osayi st hatmy
    hear tmeltedoni townt hemomentIsaw
    youandIf eltlikeI 'vebet r
    ay edmybr ot her
    causeImadeapr omi set ohi m butwhenI
    sawt hather eallyl ovesMbal i Isawagood
    oppor t
    unit
    ytot elly ouhowIf eel butI
    chickenedoutf ear i
    ngr eject ion* Isigh*I '
    m
    tel
    lingy ouall oft hisjustsoy oucoul dsee
    thatImeanwhenIsayIl ov ey ouandj ust
    soy oucanseet hatmyhear tchosey out he
    momentmyey esl andedony ou.

    Shewi
    peshernowf
    all
    i
    ngt
    ear
    s.
    Her
    :I
    .I
    ..
    don'
    tknowwhatt
    osayI
    '
    m..
    Me: youdon' thavetosayany thi
    ngIwasj ust
    maki ngi tcl
    earthatIreallyLov eyousoI
    couldgobackt othepoint,seeMJspoke
    aboutl ovecomingwi t
    hsacr ifi
    cesandat
    thattimehet ol
    dmeIdi dn'tunderstand
    whathemeantbutnowIdo, allIwantisto
    seey ouhappyandi nmypoi ntofvi
    ewy our
    happi nesslieswithAthisot hisismeKhay a
    sacrificingmyLov efory ourhappinessand
    trustmei ti
    snoteasybuti tisasiti
    sand
    thiswi llal
    soclearthepressur ewe'vebeen
    putti
    ngony ou.
    Shelooksdowncr yi
    ng,i
    fonlysheknowsit
    hurt
    smemor ethanithurt
    sher..
    .Iopenthe
    doorgoingbacktohersideandopent he
    doorforasshecomesoutandIembr ace
    hercl
    osertomesi ghingwishi
    ngIcoulddo
    thi
    sever
    yday
    ,wishi
    ngshecouldstayi
    nmy
    armsfor
    ever
    ,af
    terabout2minut
    esIletgo
    ofher
    .
    Me:
    pleasedon'
    tcr
    ybehappytot
    hef
    act
    t
    hatyoucannowbewithAthi
    .
    Her
    :butIl
    ovey
    ou.
    Ohgodt
    hosewor
    ds.
    Me:
    whataboutAt
    hi?
    Her
    :Ial
    sol
    ovehi
    m.
    Me:that
    'st
    hepr obl
    em,youcan'
    thaveus
    bothandIjustmadet hi
    ngseasyforyou
    andIknowt hatAthil
    ovesyoutooI'
    veseen
    thewayhel ooksatyou,
    atl
    eastI'
    mlett
    ing
    yougotobewi t
    hsomeonewhol ovesy ou
    too,
    Ihavetogonow.
    Iki
    sshercheekt
    hengetsi
    nthecarand
    l
    ookatheronemoreti
    meanddriveaway.
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t53~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    Tasha!
    !!
    *
    Isnapmyf
    inger
    sinf
    rontofher
    *
    Me:wher
    eyouat
    ?You'
    vebeenqui
    etev
    er
    si
    ncewegother
    e.
    Tasha:
    *si
    ghs*I
    '
    mj ustt
    hinki
    ngbabe,
    any
    way
    how'sl
    if
    ewithbodyguar
    ds*smil
    es*
    Me:
    Idon'tl
    i
    ket
    hest
    aresIgetbutat
    leastI
    f
    eelsaf
    e.
    Z'
    yanda:isi
    tmeort
    heseday
    syoul
    ove
    oni
    onrings?
    Tasha:
    butshehat
    eoni
    onr
    ings*
    looksat
    me*
    Me:
    theyar
    edel
    i
    cious.
    Tasha:
    sincewhen?Causelastt
    imeIcheck
    theyweredisgust
    ingt
    oyou.
    Me:
    *shr
    uggi
    ngmyshoul
    der
    s*i
    t'
    sanewy
    ear
    .
    Theybot
    hlookateachot
    herandcont
    inue
    wit
    hthei
    rfood.
    Me:
    soZeei
    sev
    ery
    thi
    ngr
    eadyf
    ornext
    mont
    h?
    Z'
    yanda:
    wel
    lal
    most
    .
    Tasha:
    howmanybr
    idesmai
    dsdoy
    ouhav
    e?
    Z'
    yanda:
    3
    Me:
    soy
    ouhav
    e3f
    ri
    ends?
    Z'
    yanda:
    ohnoi
    tismy2si
    ster
    sandmy
    cousi
    n.
    Me:
    whydi
    dn'
    tyouasky
    ourf
    ri
    ends?
    Tashagi
    vesmeast
    are.
    Z'
    yanda:
    youguy
    sar
    etheonl
    yfr
    iendsIhav
    e.
    Me&Tasha:
    ncooh
    Tasha:
    b..
    "
    Hi"
    Weturnourheadsupandwear egreet
    edby
    anamazingsmil
    efrom t
    hisbeaut
    if
    uldark
    ski
    nnedl
    ady,wowherskinseemsflawl
    ess.
    Z'
    yanda:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    hey
    .
    Her:
    IknowI
    '
    m bei
    ngf
    orwar
    dbutmayIj
    oin
    you?
    Z'
    yanda:
    sur
    e,t
    akeaseat
    .
    Shesi
    tsnextt
    oZ'yandawithherfood,
    Mj
    st
    andsupandstandsinfrontofherj
    ust
    l
    ooki
    ngathermmm t hat
    'sodd.
    Her
    :t
    hanks,
    mynamei
    sThandekabyt
    he
    way
    .
    Z'
    yanda:
    Z'y
    anda.
    Tasha:
    Nat
    asha.
    Me:
    Mb.
    .
    Thandeka:
    Mbal
    enhl
    eMt
    hembu*
    smi
    l
    es*I
    '
    m
    ahugefan.
    Me:
    uhhbutI
    '
    m notacel
    ebr
    it
    y.
    Her
    :Iknowi
    t'
    sjustt
    hatIadmi
    rey
    ouso
    muchandIl
    ookupt oyou.
    Wowok.
    Me:
    howol
    dar
    eyou?
    Her:
    20,
    mayIgetahugandapi
    ctur
    ewi
    th
    you?
    Me:*
    giggl
    i
    ng*Icangiv
    eyouahugbutIdon'
    t
    knowaboutt
    hepictur
    e.
    Her
    :I
    'l
    ltakewhatIcanget
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    WebothstandupandIgi
    veherahugwhi
    ch
    sendsshi
    ver
    sallov
    ermybody,t
    hesmi
    leI
    havedi
    sappear
    sbutIf
    akeitwhenwel
    etgo.
    Her
    :t
    hanks*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Webot
    hsi
    tdown.
    Tasha:
    Isowi
    sht
    obeknownt
    oo*
    sul
    ks*
    Z'
    yanda:
    meandy
    oubot
    hbabe.
    TheycontinuetalkingbutI '
    m notfocused
    onthet al
    kingI'
    m mor efocusedont hi
    s
    Thandekagi r
    lthere'ssomet hingabouther
    thatIcan'
    tputmyf ingeroni tbuti
    tsends
    shiver
    sallovermybodyandIdon' tli
    keit
    .
    Tasha:
    hel
    l
    o!!
    ear
    tht
    oMbal
    i
    !!comebackt
    o
    us.
    Me:
    dramat
    icmuch*
    rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    Z'
    yanda:
    missi
    nghubbyal
    ready
    ?*smi
    l
    es*
    Me:
    *blushi
    ng*
    it'
    snott
    hatbutIdomi
    sshi
    m
    i
    nfactletmecall
    him.
    Itakeoutmyphoneandcallhi
    m,he
    answeredonthefi
    rstr
    ing/
    /
    Hi
    m:wi
    fey
    Ii
    nvol
    unt
    arysmi
    l
    e.
    Me:
    hubby
    ,howar
    eyou?
    Hi
    m:y
    oul
    eftmef
    ineabout45mi
    nut
    esago.
    Me:
    i
    tsur
    efeel
    smor
    ethan45mi
    nut
    est
    o
    me.
    Hi
    m:seemsl
    i
    kesomeonemi
    ssesme
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Ido.
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m al
    soi
    nneedofy
    ou,
    comebacknow.
    "Yeyiyeyi
    haveyoufor
    got
    tenabout
    us"soundsli
    keKhay
    a.
    Igi
    ggl
    e.
    Me:
    seemsl
    i
    key
    ouhav
    ecompany
    .
    Hi
    m:Iwi
    l
    lki
    ckt
    hem outbabe.
    "
    Suny
    aaphawena"
    ..
    wel
    lIhav
    enoi
    deawho
    t
    hati
    s.
    Z'
    yanda:ail
    etmeal
    socal
    lZugo*
    taki
    ngout
    herphone*
    Tasha:
    youhav
    egott
    obeki
    ddi
    ngme.
    Me:
    babeI
    '
    llseey
    oui
    naboutanhourok.
    Hi
    m:okIhear
    tyou.
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    Ihear
    tyouev
    enmor
    e//
    Idropthecal
    landfocusont
    hegirl
    sandI
    sti
    l
    l hav
    eabadf eel
    i
    ngaboutThandeka.
    .
    °
    MJ°
    Bonga:wuuahhhe'sev
    enblushi
    ng,
    Khay
    a
    youdidn'
    ttel
    lmeitwasthi
    sbad.
    Khay
    a:he'
    swhi
    ppedIt
    ell
    you.
    Me:
    ohshutup.
    Khay
    a:*
    smirks*
    soBongzhowwasDur
    ban?
    Howarethechicksont
    hatsi
    de?
    Bonga:i
    twasgreat,
    thechi
    cksyerrtheyar
    e
    fl
    amesbr ahbutt
    heycatchfeel
    ingstoo
    quickl
    y.
    Khay
    a:t
    urnof
    f.
    Ichuckl
    emcm t
    heset
    wo.
    Bonga:
    arewegoi
    ngouttoni
    ghtori
    sitonl
    y
    meandKhayagoingout
    ?
    Khay
    a:Idon'
    tknow,
    arewe?
    *tur
    nst
    olookat
    me*
    Me:
    may
    besomeot
    hert
    ime.
    Bonga:
    Khayar
    emi
    ndmet
    onev
    erget
    marri
    edok.
    Khay
    a:I
    '
    llr
    emi
    ndy
    ouandy
    ou'
    l
    lal
    sor
    emi
    nd
    me.
    Bonga:
    deal
    .
    Me:Bongadi
    dyouev
    ert
    hinkmeMJwi
    l
    l
    ev
    ergetmarri
    ed?
    Hi
    m:no.
    Me:metoobutlooknow,y
    oumaysaynow
    t
    hatyouwill
    nevergetmarriedbutt
    heday
    youmeettheoneforyoutrustmeyour
    i
    maginat
    ionwil
    ltakeyouplacesyounever
    t
    houghtyou'
    dgo.
    Khay
    a:t
    hat
    'sdeepmar
    n.
    Thedoorbel
    lri
    ngs.
    Khay
    a:Igoti
    t.
    Hest
    andsupwal
    ki
    ngt
    othedoor
    .
    Bonga:y
    oudoknowt
    haty
    oust
    il
    loweme
    ri
    ght?
    Me:
    owey
    ou?Owey
    ouwhat
    ?
    Him:
    howcanyougetmar
    ri
    edwi
    thoutme
    bei
    ngther
    e?
    Il
    aughathi
    m.
    Me:It
    oldyout
    ocl
    eary
    ourschedul
    ebut
    whatdidy
    oudo?
    Hi
    m:itwasalastminut
    emissi
    onbrah,
    Idi
    d
    cl
    earmyscheduleandIdi
    dthatf
    ornothi
    ng.
    Me:
    wel
    ldon'
    tbl
    ameme,
    Idi
    dn'
    tdoany
    thi
    ng.
    Khayawal
    ksbackwi
    thalady
    ,he'
    sgi
    vi
    ngme
    alookt
    hatt
    ell
    smeshe'
    shereforme.
    Bonga:
    after
    noonbeaut
    if
    ull
    ady
    ,pl
    easedo
    takeaseat.
    Shesi
    tsdownandl
    ooksatme.
    Me:
    what
    ?DoIhav
    esomet
    hingonmyf
    ace?
    Her
    :no.
    Me:Iknownowst
    opst
    ari
    ngmywi
    fewon'
    t
    l
    ikethat.
    Her
    :*shocked*
    wif
    e??
    Me:
    whoar
    eyouandhowmayIhel
    pyou?
    Her:
    mynamei
    sAmahl
    eI'
    mlooki
    ngf
    or
    Londi
    .
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    Londi
    ??who'
    sthat
    ?
    Her
    :whoar
    eyoumar
    ri
    edt
    oo?
    ?
    Me:Iwil
    lnotgi
    veastrangermywif
    e'sname
    ,nowagainhowmayIhel pyoucauseIdo
    notknowthisLondi
    youspeakof.
    Her
    :STOPACTINGLI
    KEYOUDONOT
    KNOW HER!
    !!
    Ohokshe'srai
    singherv
    oiceonme,
    MJ
    cal
    m down,cal
    m down.
    Me:di
    dyouj
    ustr
    aisey
    ourv
    oiceatme*
    Isay
    cal
    mly*
    Her:
    *looki
    ngatherhands*
    Idi
    dn'
    tmeant
    oo
    I
    'm sorr
    y.
    Khaya:
    youcan'
    tcomeherewit
    hyouranger
    i
    ssueswedon'tevenknowyouort
    hisLondi
    gi
    rl
    .
    Her
    :MJknowsher
    .
    Sheknowsmyname?
    Me:
    wher
    eonear
    thdi
    dyougetmyname?
    Her
    :f
    rom Londi
    .
    Khay
    a:who'
    sLondi
    ?
    Her:
    she'
    safri
    endofmine,
    she'
    sbeen
    missi
    ngforacoupl
    eofmonthsnow,
    her
    famil
    yi sworri
    edsickabouthert heyev en
    call
    edt hepoli
    cetohel pthem lookf orher,
    I
    alsohadnoi deawher eshe'satunt ilt
    he
    poli
    cecal l
    edmef orquest i
    oningt hat'
    swhen
    Ireal
    izedy ouaret
    hel astpersonshecame
    toseebef oreshedisappeared.
    I
    sthisaprank?Causereal
    l
    yIdon'
    tknow
    whatorwhoshe'stal
    ki
    ngabout.
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkmay
    bey
    ougott
    hewr
    ongMJ.
    Her:*shaki
    ngherhead* noit
    'sy
    ou,thatday
    shewasatmyhousewheny oucalledher
    tell
    i
    nghert hatsheshouldcomeov erso
    youcoul dworktogethersi
    ncey oucame
    backear l
    yfrom court
    ,andIneverheard
    from hereveragain.
    THEFUCK!she'
    stal
    kingaboutthegi
    rlwho
    gav
    emeal oveport
    ion,j
    udgi
    ngbyKhay a'
    s
    l
    ookhe'
    salr
    eadyfi
    gureditout
    .
    Me:
    ohy
    eahLondi
    ,youmeant
    hegi
    rlwho
    f
    edmealov
    eport
    ion?
    Sheswal
    l
    owshersal
    i
    va.
    Her
    :*cl
    ear
    shert
    hroat
    *y.
    .y
    eah.
    Me:*
    chuckl
    ing*Ihav
    enoi
    deawher
    eshei
    s
    andIdon'
    tcare.
    Her
    :butI
    ..
    Bonga:
    ti
    mesupbabygi
    rl
    ,scam.
    Sheslowlystandsupandwalkoutwitha
    tai
    lbetweenherlegsandKhaya&Bonga
    l
    aught hei
    rheadsout.
    Me:
    ahhnoi
    seguy
    s.
    Khay
    a:*
    cat
    cheshi
    sbr
    eat
    h*damnbr
    oh.
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Hi
    m:howcany
    ouf
    orgety
    ourex?
    Me:
    i
    nmyunder
    standi
    ngshei
    snotmyex
    becauseifIwasinther
    ightstat
    eofmind
    andheartIwouldhaveneveraskedherout
    .
    Bonga:
    ouch*
    laughs*
    Khay
    a:st
    il
    l,
    howcoul
    dyouf
    orgether
    ?
    Me:
    youwer
    eal
    soi
    nthedar
    kasme.
    Khay
    a:t
    hat
    'sbecauseIwasn'
    ttheonewho
    wasfedal
    oveportion.
    Ij
    ustr
    oll
    myey
    es.
    Khay
    a:andBongahowcoul
    dyouf
    orget
    someoneyoustal
    ked?
    Bonga:
    Idi
    dn'
    tfor
    gether,
    themomentshe
    sai
    dI'
    m AmahleI
    'mlookingforLondi
    Iknew
    whatshewastal
    kingabout.
    Me:
    wai
    tst
    alk?
    ?Whywer
    eyoust
    alki
    ngher
    ?
    Bonga:yourbrotherher
    efounditoddthat
    youjustlosti
    nteresti
    nMbalii
    nabl i
    nkofan
    eyeandstar
    tedanewr elat
    ionshi
    pwit
    ha
    gir
    lhedoesn'
    ttrustsoheaskedformyhel
    p
    tofol
    l
    owher ,
    IcouldsayherandAmahle
    werepret
    tycl
    ose.
    Il
    ookatKhay
    a.
    Me:I
    '
    m proudt
    ocal
    lyoumybr
    othery
    ou
    knowthat
    .
    Him:
    Ilov
    ey outoo,
    nowI'
    dli
    kemymoney
    pai
    dsoony ouknowmyinvoi
    ceandBongz
    whydi
    dy ouleaveusi
    nthedar
    k.
    Bonga:
    *chuckles*Iknewy ouwouldgetwho
    she'
    stal
    kingaboutohandnowt hatshehas
    shownupt her
    ei ssomet hi
    ngIfoundout
    whenIwasst alki
    ngt hatgir
    lbutIdon'
    tthi
    nk
    i
    t'
    simportantanymor e.
    Me:
    whati
    sit
    ?
    Hi
    m:t
    hisAmahl
    egi
    rlhadsomesor
    tofbeef
    withyournowwife,
    she'stheonewhoasked
    Londitoseduceyoujusttobreaky
    ouand
    MbaliupbutLondifel
    lforyouandendedup
    feedi
    ngy oualov
    epor t
    ion.
    Me:whenyousay"had"howdoy ouknow
    shenolongerhas"
    beef"agai
    nstmywife?
    Hi
    m:IdonotknowI
    '
    mjustassumi
    ng.
    Il
    ookathi
    m givi
    nghi
    m asmi
    rkandhe
    smir
    ksri
    ghtback.
    Hi
    m:don'
    twor
    ryI
    '
    llkeepaney
    esonher
    .
    Inodwaitwhatifshe'st
    heenemy ?Butshe
    doesn'
    tlookli
    kesomeonewhohasgut s
    shelookscompletel
    yweak,butj
    usttogeta
    fr
    eeofmi ndI'
    l
    lwaitforBongatotel
    lme
    whathef i
    ndsout.

    .
    ~inser
    t54~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    ThisThandekagirl
    hasbeentext
    ingme
    si
    ncey est
    erday
    ,shewantstohangoutand
    seri
    ouslyIdonotknowaboutthatcauseI
    sti
    l
    l haveabadfeeli
    ngabouther
    .
    MJ:
    what
    'st
    hatsmel
    l
    ?
    Heaskswalki
    ngi
    ntheki
    tchenwear
    inga
    t
    racksui
    tpant
    sandavest.
    Me:
    eggsandbacon.
    Hi
    m:whydoesi
    tsmel
    lsobad?
    Me:
    *sni
    ff
    ing*
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Hi
    m:i
    thi
    nki
    tisy
    oureggs,
    theysmel
    lawf
    ul.
    Me:It
    hinki
    tisy
    oursenseofsmel
    l,
    i
    t'
    s
    damagedcausetheseeggsar
    eper
    fect
    ly
    fi
    neIboughtt
    hem y
    est
    erdayandy
    ouwi
    l
    l
    eatt
    hem Mr.
    Hi
    m:*
    frowns*
    Iwi
    l
    lnoteatt
    hat
    .
    Me:
    youwokemeupsay
    ingy
    ouar
    ehungr
    y
    mos.
    Hi
    m:Iam uhasof
    tpor
    ri
    dgewi
    l
    ldot
    het
    ri
    ck.
    Me:
    you'
    reki
    ddi
    ngmer
    ight
    ?
    Hi
    m:nobabeI
    '
    m hungr
    y*sul
    ks*
    Irol
    lmyey
    esandmaket
    hesof
    tpor
    ri
    dge
    forhi
    m.
    Hi
    m:ohsomegi
    rlnamedThandekacal
    l
    ed.
    Me:
    whatdi
    dshewant
    ?
    Him:ouraddress,shesai
    dyouguysmet
    yester
    dayandy ouinvi
    tedherov
    erbutdi
    dn'
    t
    givehertheaddress.
    Ist
    opst
    ir
    ri
    ngandt
    urnt
    olookathi
    m.
    Me:
    andy
    ougav
    ehert
    headdr
    ess?
    ?
    Him:hernumberi
    ssav
    edony
    ourphoneso
    yeah.
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    itcool
    .
    Hi
    m:what
    'sup?Am Imi
    ssi
    ngsomet
    hing?
    Me:Ij
    ustdon'
    ttr
    usther
    ,Ihav
    eabadf
    eel
    i
    ng
    abouther
    .
    Hi
    m:t
    henwhyi
    nvi
    teherov
    er?
    Me:
    Idi
    dn'
    t
    Him:
    thenIguessI
    '
    mlost
    ,sobasi
    cal
    l
    yshe
    l
    iedt
    ome.
    Me:
    seemsl
    i
    kei
    t.
    Him:Ithi
    nkIdon'
    tl
    ikeherei
    ther
    ,she'
    sonher
    wayher emaybeIshoul
    dcancelmymeet
    upwi t
    htheguysandstayherewithyou
    causewedon'tknowwhatshemi ghtdo.
    Me:noit'
    scoolIcanhandl
    eher,
    eatyour
    porr
    idgeandgoshowerbeforegoi
    ngout
    pl
    ust hebodyguar
    dareheresoisMj so
    don'
    twor r
    y.
    Hi
    m:y
    ousur
    e?
    Me:
    yeah.
    Him:okohandwhosai
    dIhav
    en'
    t
    showered?
    ?
    Me:
    yourpor
    ri
    dgei
    sready
    .
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Ncami i
    schi l
    l
    ingwiththeQueenatt
    he
    palacegardenhavingsometeaandbiscui
    ts
    overali
    ghtconv er
    sati
    onwhenshe
    suddenlyzoneout.
    Nomusa:
    Ncami
    ?what
    'swr
    ong?
    Shecomesbackt
    oreal
    i
    ty.
    Ncami
    :
    it'
    sMbal
    i
    Nomusa:
    what
    'swr
    ongwi
    thher
    ?
    Ncami:
    herchi
    l
    d'sl
    i
    fei
    sindangerandsoi
    s
    she.
    Nomusabr
    eat
    hsheav
    il
    y.
    Nomusa:
    wai
    tShe'
    spr
    egnant
    ?
    Ncami
    :
    yesbutshedoesn'
    tknowy
    et.
    Nomusa:
    youhav
    etowar
    nher
    .
    Ncami:*si
    ghs*Ican'
    t,
    youknowsomet i
    mesI
    wonderwhyt heyshowmet hesekindof
    thi
    ngsandnotal l
    owmet ohelp*
    tearsfal
    l
    offhereyes*
    Nomusa:comeondon'
    tbeaty
    our
    selfup
    nowI
    'm suret
    hatt
    heyknowwhattheyar
    e
    doi
    ng.
    Ncami
    :Iknowbutwhati
    fherchi
    l
    ddi
    esor
    whati
    ftheybot
    hdie.
    Nomusablinkshertear
    sawaynotwanting
    tohavenegati
    vethought
    sabouther
    daught
    eranditbreaksherseei
    ngherf
    ri
    end
    l
    ikethi
    s.
    Nomusa:
    don'
    ttal
    kli
    ket
    hat
    .
    Ncami:IknowthatIcanhelpprot
    ectthem
    butI'
    m notall
    owedtoo*wipesoffher
    tear
    s*Ijustwi
    shthi
    sgiftwo..
    ..
    Nomusa:don'
    tsayi
    tcausey
    oumi
    ghtr
    egr
    et
    i
    tlat
    er.
    Ncami
    :
    ser
    iousl
    ywhathav
    ethi
    sgi
    ftdonef
    or
    me?
    Nomusa:
    somuchy
    ouj
    ustdon'
    tnot
    icei
    t.
    Ncami :
    *shaki
    ngherhead*ar
    ey outal
    ki
    ng
    aboutitshowingmewhensomeonei si
    n
    dangerandnotall
    owingmet ohelp?How
    doesthathelp?Causeitonl
    yleavesme
    broken.
    Nomusast
    andsupandembr
    aceherwhi
    l
    e
    br
    ushi
    ngherback.
    Ncami
    :*cr
    ying*
    Icoul
    dhav
    esav
    edt
    hem
    Nomusa.
    Nomusa:shhhIknowthati
    tst
    il
    lhur
    tsbut
    youhav
    et olett
    hem goNcami.
    Ncami
    :
    Ican'
    t,
    hewassoy
    oungan.
    ..
    Nomusa:stophurti
    ngy our
    selfl
    i
    kethi
    s,
    your
    husbandandsonar einabetterpl
    aceyou
    havetoacceptthat
    .*shelet
    sgoofher*
    Ncami:
    *sniff
    s*t
    hanks,
    I'
    mjustscar
    edthat
    Mbali
    mi ghtmeetthesamefateandSipho
    wil
    lnevercopehewil
    lneverbet
    hesame
    agai
    n,I
    'm st
    rongandImanagedaft
    ermy
    famil
    y'
    sdeathbutwebothknowSipho
    won't
    .
    Nomusashedat
    earbutqui
    ckl
    ywi
    pesi
    tof
    f.
    Ncami
    :
    may
    beweshoul
    dpr
    ay,
    yesl
    et'
    spr
    ay.
    Theybot
    hcl
    oset
    hei
    rey
    es.
    Ncami
    :
    ohheav
    enl
    yFat
    herwe.
    ..
    ..
    .
    ~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    *faki
    ngasmil
    e*Thandekahi
    ,
    comei
    n*I
    makewayforher
    *
    Her
    :t
    hanks,
    howar
    eyou?
    Icl
    oset
    hedoorandwewal
    ktot
    hel
    ounge.
    Me:
    I'
    m awesomeandy
    our
    sel
    f?
    Her:
    I'
    m goodohandI'
    m sorr
    yforly
    ingt
    o
    getyouraddr
    essbutIr
    eal
    lywantedtohang
    outwithyouandt
    ogettoknowy oubet
    ter.
    Me:andperhapsyoudi
    dn'
    tthi
    nkifyou
    askedwithoutl
    yi
    ngIwoul
    d'vegi
    venyoumy
    addresswil
    li
    ngl
    y?
    Her:
    youareaprincessandI'
    m sur
    eyou
    don'
    tjusthandoutyouraddr
    esstoany
    one.
    Me:
    Ist
    il
    lsayy oushoul
    dhaveaskedwi
    thout
    l
    yi
    ngbutitcoolIf
    orgiv
    eyou.
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    thanky
    ou.
    Me:
    ohksincet
    hiswasn'
    tpl
    annedIhav
    eno
    i
    deawhatweshoulddo.
    Her
    :whataboutmov
    ies?
    Me:It
    hinkt
    hey
    'l
    lhav
    etodo,
    uhm whydon'
    t
    youpi
    ckamov i
    ewhil
    eImaket
    hesnacks.
    Her
    :ohk.
    Me:ohandheadtot
    heci
    nemaroom aft
    er
    pi
    ckingamoviei
    tdownt
    hepassage,
    the
    dooronther
    ight
    .
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    eswhi
    l
    enoddi
    ng*
    cool
    .
    Iwal kt
    ot hekitchenspeakingintongues
    wishingthishangoutcoul dendsooncause
    thebadf eeli
    ngi stenti
    meswor senow, I
    shouldpleadcar eful
    lyaroundherespecial
    l
    y
    sinceMj thejaguarisupstair
    sprobably
    takinganap.
    Isighandplaceever
    ythi
    ngont hetr
    ayand
    wearaf akesmil
    eonceagainandheadt o
    thecinemaroom,thi
    sisprobablyt
    hefi
    rst
    ti
    meI '
    llbeusi
    ngit
    .
    Her
    :I
    'v
    epi
    ckedRampage,
    doy
    ouknowi
    t?
    Me:
    yeahi
    t'
    sanact
    ionmov
    ieandi
    t'
    sSunday
    ar
    eyousur
    eweshoul
    dwat
    chanact
    ion
    movi
    e?
    Her
    :whatdoy
    ousuggestwewat
    ch?
    Me:
    whatdoy
    ouhav
    ether
    e?
    Her:
    Rampage,
    Jupi
    terAscending,
    Jumanj
    i
    andTheDiar
    yOfAMadBl ackWomen.
    Me:Di
    aryofamadbl
    ackwomenwi
    l
    lhav
    eto
    do.
    Her
    :cool
    ,
    ist
    hatsoda?
    Me:
    uhm y
    eah.
    Her
    :doy
    ouper
    hapshav
    ejui
    ce?
    Gr
    eat
    !
    Me:
    sur
    eletmegeti
    tfory
    ou.
    Iwalkbacktothekit
    chentogethersome
    j
    uicethenbacktothecinema.
    Me:
    her
    eyougo.
    Her
    :t
    hanks.
    Isi
    tnextt
    oherast
    hemov
    iest
    art
    s.
    Her
    :whatdoy
    oudof
    orl
    i
    ving?
    Me:
    I'
    m al
    awy
    er.
    Her
    :ohy
    ougetcr
    imi
    nal
    soutofj
    ail
    .
    Me:ifthat
    'showy
    ouwanttosee
    i
    t*shruggi
    ngmyshoul
    der
    s*
    Her
    :youser
    vet
    hedev
    il
    .
    Me:Iser
    vejusti
    ce,
    thelawbutagai
    nifthat
    's
    howy ouwanttoseeitthenok,
    whatabout
    you,
    whatdoy oudo?
    Her
    :I
    'm aper
    sonassi
    stant
    .
    Me:
    hav
    eyoual
    way
    swant
    edt
    obeone?
    Her
    :*l
    ooksdown*
    no.
    Me:
    whatdi
    dyouwantt
    obe?
    Her
    :adoct
    or*
    flashi
    ngabeami
    ngsmi
    l
    e*
    Me:thenwhatstoppedyoufrom r
    eachi
    ng
    yourdream causeyou'
    rest
    il
    lyoung?
    Her:
    * herfacedrops*f
    inanci
    aldi
    ffi
    cul
    ti
    es,
    mymot herissickandmyl i
    tt
    lebrot
    heris
    sti
    ll
    inschool Ihadtodr opoutonmyf i
    rst
    yearandl ookforajobsoIcant akecar
    eof
    myf amilyandr ai
    semoneyf ormom's
    tr
    eatment .
    Me:
    I'
    m sosor
    ryt
    oheart
    hat
    .
    Her
    :i
    tcool
    .
    Me:youknowIcanhel
    pyouwithsome
    money,y
    oucangobacktoschoolandt
    reat
    yourmother
    .
    Her:
    i
    t'
    soksomeoneisal
    readyoff
    eri
    ngme
    somemoneyitwi
    ll
    bemor ethanenough.
    Me:
    greatt
    hen,
    asl
    ongasy
    ou'
    l
    lgobackt
    o
    schoolandreachyourdreamsohandifyou
    needanythi
    ngjustshutoutI'
    l
    lbehappyt
    o
    help.
    StrangecauseIreal
    lymeanthateven
    thoughIdon'tl
    ikeherbutIf
    eell
    ikeI'
    m
    j
    udgi ngherbef
    oregetti
    ngtoknowher
    better.
    Her
    :*l
    ooksatme*
    your
    eal
    l
    ymeant
    hat
    ?
    Inodwi
    thasmi
    l
    e.
    Her
    :wi
    l
    lyouwantsomet
    hingi
    nret
    urn?
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    ofcour
    senot
    .
    Her
    :ar
    eyoual
    way
    sthi
    sni
    ce?
    Ipi
    ckupmygl
    assofsodaandgul
    pit
    down,
    howr
    efr
    eshi
    ng.
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkso.
    Shest
    aresatmygl
    ass.
    Me:
    arey
    ouok?
    Her:
    uhhI.
    .I
    'mI*
    tear
    sfal
    ldownst
    il
    ll
    ooki
    ng
    atmyglass*
    Me:
    ohmygodar
    eyouok?
    Her
    :I
    'm sor
    ry,
    pleasef
    orgi
    veme*
    cry
    ing*
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    forwhat
    ?
    Her
    :*gr
    absherbag*
    Ihav
    etogo.
    Sherushesoutl eavi
    ngme
    conf
    used,anywayIswi t
    choffthebigscreen
    andtakeeverythingtot
    hekit
    chenwher eI
    fi
    ndMj thejaguarwonderi
    ngar ound.
    Me:
    heybuddy
    ,you'
    vef
    inal
    l
    ydeci
    dedt
    ojoi
    n
    me.
    Ipl
    acethedishesandtheglassesonthe
    si
    nkandopent hetapsti
    ll
    thinki
    ngabout
    Thandeka.Ist
    artwashi
    ngthedishesbuta
    l
    ightpai
    nhitsmeonmyabdomenaghI
    i
    gnoreitandconti
    nuewi t
    hthedi shesbuti
    t
    comesbackatamuchgr eaterforce
    makingmescr eam ali
    tt
    lewhileholdingmy
    stomach,what
    'sgoingon?
    .
    .

    .
    ~inser
    t55~

    °
    MJ°

    Bonga:
    fort
    hesepastfewhour
    ssheseem
    cl
    eanbutI'
    l
    lkeepfol
    lowi
    ngher.
    Me:
    ohkI
    ..
    .
    Myphonedi
    stur
    bsme,
    myl
    i
    pscur
    vesi
    ntoa
    smi
    l
    ethemomentIseewhoi
    tisI
    i
    mmediat
    elypi
    ckup/
    /.
    Me:
    missmeal
    ready
    ?
    Shegr
    oansi
    npai
    nandmysmi
    l
    edi
    sappear
    s.
    Me:
    babewhat
    'swr
    ong?
    *Iaskst
    andi
    ngup*
    Her
    :p.
    .ai
    nonm.
    .ahhhhhI
    ..
    Me:I
    'm onmyway,don'
    tswi
    tchof
    fyour
    phonekeept
    alki
    ngtoKhaya.
    IhandKhayathephone,I'
    m notaboutt
    o
    dri
    vefor15minut
    eslisteningtomywife
    groani
    nginsuchpai
    ni tslowlyki
    l
    lsme,I
    fi
    ddlewit
    hthekeystr
    y i
    ngt oopenthecar.
    Bonga:
    giv
    emet
    hekey
    sI'
    l
    ldr
    ive.
    Igi
    vehimt hekeysandgetinatthe
    backseatashetakesthedr
    iver
    'sseat
    ,
    Khayaleadsthewayinful
    lspeed.Wegett
    o
    myhousei n10mi nutes,Idon'twaitfor
    Bongatopr oper
    lyparkthecarIj ustgetoff
    i
    nf ul
    lspeedrunningi
    nsideIwi ll
    deal wit
    h
    thesebloodybodyguardslatercausei t
    seemsliketheyaren'
    tdoingt hei
    rgoddamn
    j
    ob.
    Me:
    BABE!
    !!
    !!
    Ishoul d'venev erl
    eftheralonewiththi
    s
    Thandekagi rl
    ,shedidsayshehasabad
    feelingaboutherIshoul dhav enev erl
    eft
    her,Ifeel somet hi
    ngpushsmyl egst owards
    theki t
    cheni tmustbeMj ,Irunther
    eand
    freezet hemomentIseeherl yi
    ngont he
    fl
    oorwi thbloodonherl owerbody .
    Khay
    a:MJ!
    !!Wher
    eyouat
    ??
    Ihearf
    oot
    stepscomi
    ngt
    hisway
    .
    Bonga:
    ohGod.
    I
    '
    m st
    il
    lfr
    ozenIdon'
    tknowwhatt
    odo.
    Khaya:
    MJSNAPOUTOFI
    T!weneedt
    oget
    hert
    othehospi
    tal
    .
    Icomebackt omysensesandquickl
    ypick
    heruprunni
    ngouttothecarBongatakes
    thedri
    vi
    ngseatagai
    ndriv
    ingl
    ikeamaniac
    tothehospi
    tal
    .
    Me:Sthandwasami(mylov
    e)pl
    easeopen
    youreyes*Isayt
    hatbl
    ocki
    ngmytearsfr
    om
    f
    alli
    ng*
    She'
    slosi
    ngt
    oomuchblood,
    whyisshe
    bl
    eedi
    ngsomuchcauseIdon'
    tseeany
    wound.
    Me:
    Bongadr
    ivef
    ast
    er!
    .
    Iruni
    nsidet
    hehospit
    alwithheri
    nmyarms
    shout
    inggothel
    p,t
    henursesruntomewit
    h
    t
    hest
    ret
    cher
    .
    Nur
    se:
    whathappened?
    ?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknowpl
    easesav
    eher
    .
    Nur
    se:
    we'
    l
    ltr
    yourbest
    .
    Shesayst
    hatdi
    sappeari
    ngwit
    hherwhi
    leI
    paceupanddowntryi
    ngtocal
    m mysel
    f
    down.
    Khay
    a:shewi
    l
    lbeokbr
    oh.
    Me:y
    oudonotknowt
    hatKhay
    a*br
    eat
    hing
    heav
    y*
    Khay
    a:t
    hinkposi
    ti
    vel
    yMJ.
    Ibreathinandoutl ooki
    ngupst andi
    ng
    againstthewall,
    Thandekabetterhavenota
    handi nmyWi febeinghereorelseI'
    llpai
    nt
    thewholeJo'burgred.Khay amakescal l
    sto
    familyandfri
    ends,Athi,
    Zugo,
    ChrisandTom
    get
    sher
    efi
    rst
    .
    Chr
    is:
    howi
    sshe?
    Khay
    a:t
    hedoct
    orshav
    en'
    tgot
    tenbackt
    ous.
    Whati
    staki
    ngt
    hem sol
    ong.
    At
    hi:
    whathappenedt
    oher
    ?
    Bonga:
    wedon'
    tknow.
    At
    hi:
    whatdoy
    oumeany
    oudon'
    tknow?
    Bonga:exact
    lyt
    hat
    ,t
    he3ofuswer echill
    i
    ng
    i
    nmyhousewhenMJgotacal lfrom his
    wif
    eandt henextt
    hingweweredriv
    ingin
    ful
    lspeedtogocheckuponherwef ound
    herpassedoutontheki
    tchenf
    loorbleeding.
    At
    hi:
    w..
    "Mr
    sMkhize"
    adoct
    orsaymaki
    ngusst
    and
    upqui
    ckl
    y.
    Me:
    howi
    sshe?
    Doc:
    she'
    llbef
    ine,
    she'
    sjustweaksi
    nceshe
    l
    ostalotofbl
    ood.
    Me:
    *si
    ghingi
    nrel
    i
    ef*
    whywasshel
    osi
    nga
    l
    otofbl
    ood?
    Doc:sheconsumedsomet hi
    ngt hatcould
    abortherchi
    ld,
    wearejustwait
    ingf orthe
    resul
    tsfrom t
    helabt
    of i
    ndoutwhati twas.
    Me:
    wai
    thol
    dup,
    achi
    l
    d??
    Doc:
    yeah.
    Shewaspregnant
    ??But
    ..
    .If
    eel
    myknees
    weakeni
    ng.
    Me:*
    stumbli
    ngbackwar
    ds*
    she.
    .shewas
    pr
    egnant?
    Whydi
    dn'
    tshet
    ell
    me.
    Doc:
    I'
    m sor
    ryIthoughty
    ouknewandshe'
    s
    st
    il
    lpr
    egnantshegothereonti
    me.
    Irel
    easeabreathasIhi
    tthewallf
    eeli
    ng
    gl
    adt hatt
    hebabyissti
    l
    lali
    vebutthe
    questi
    onstil
    lst
    ands,
    Whydidn'
    tshetell
    me?
    Khay
    a:howf
    ari
    sshewi
    thherpr
    egnancy
    ?
    Doc:
    1monthand2weeks,wouldy
    oul
    i
    ket
    o
    seeher
    ?butshe'
    sst
    il
    lrest
    ing.
    Everyonetur
    ntheirheadsfacingme,
    Ij
    ust
    standupandwal kstrai
    ghttoBongaand
    takethecarkeysthenwal koutwi
    thKhay
    a
    call
    ingmyname, Ineedtoknowwhat
    exactl
    yhappenedt oday.
    ~
    WhenIgethomeIgost raighttothe
    survei
    ll
    ancesr
    oom,itactuall
    yt heatt
    icbutI
    turnedi
    ttomysurveil
    lancesr oom, y
    eah
    thisent
    ir
    ehousehassur veil
    lancecamer as.
    Itakeaseatasmyey esr unsar oundthe
    screen,t
    her eIl ef
    tt henaf ter20mi nut esa
    girl
    gother eitmustbeThandeka, Lenhl e
    wentt otheki t
    chent omakesomesnacks
    whilethisgi rll
    ooksar oundandheadst o
    thecinemar oom,Iswi tcht othecamer as
    thataret hereshet akesoutsomet hing
    from herbagbutqui ckl yhi desitast hedoor
    opens,afteraboutami nut eLenhlewal ks
    outwher e' sshegoi ng?OknowI '
    ml ooking
    atLenhl eandThandekaatt hesame
    ti
    me, Lenhl epoursj uicei ntoagl asswhi l
    e
    Thandekap. .
    .waitTHEFUCKDOESSHE
    THINKSHE' SDOI NG! !Lenhl ecomesback, I
    keepwat chingwhi l
    ebr eat hingheav ywi th
    mybl oodboi li
    ng,themomentLenhl egulps
    thatsodaIi nstantlyseer ed,thi
    sgirlknew
    exactlywhatshewasdoi nghowdi dshe
    knowLenhl eispregnantbecauseshe
    wouldn'tt ellastrangert hatshe' spr egnant
    whenIherhusbanddonotknow. .Iswit
    ch
    everyt
    hingofft hemomentLenhl estars
    screaminghol dingherstomuch.Icl osemy
    eyestryi
    ngt ocal m myselfdown,Thandeka
    almostkill
    edmychi l
    dshe' sgonnapay
    she'sgonnaf uckinpaybutf i
    rstIhav et
    o
    ret
    urntot hehospi t
    al,
    Idon'tknowhowI '
    m
    gonnagett herewi t
    hsomuchangeri nme
    butIhav etoseemywi fe.
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Iopenmyeyesandfi
    ndsomanyey es
    l
    ookingatmeand4ofthoseeyesare
    cry
    ing,
    andMjt
    hejaguarl
    ayi
    ngonmyl egs
    actual
    l
    ymorel
    ikemylowerbody.
    Tasha:
    *cr
    ying*
    final
    l
    yshe'
    sawake,
    don'
    tyou
    ev
    erscar
    eusl
    i
    ket
    hat
    *huggi
    ngme*
    Z'
    yanda:*
    wipi
    nghertear
    s*Tasha'
    sri
    ght
    ,you
    can'
    tscareusl
    iket
    hat.
    Me:*cl
    ear
    ingmyt
    hroat
    *wher
    e'smy
    husband?
    ?
    Khay
    abr
    usheshi
    sheadl
    ooki
    ngdown.
    Me:
    Kh.
    ..
    MJbugdesi
    nwalkingl
    i
    kehe'sdrunkwi
    th
    somevei
    nsvi
    sibl
    eonhisf
    orehead.
    Khay
    a:ohGod*
    looki
    ngathi
    sbr
    other
    *
    Di
    dMJ'smusclesgetbi
    ggerorisi
    tme?
    Andwhydoeshelooksoscary?
    MJ:
    coul
    dyoual
    lgi
    veussomespace.
    Ever
    yonenodsandwal
    koutexcl
    udi
    ng
    KhayaandadudeIdonotknow.
    Khay
    a:MJcal
    m downpl
    ease,
    you'
    rescar
    ing
    me.
    MJ:
    nol
    i
    sten.
    Heget
    sclosertothem andwhi sper
    somet
    hingforabout2mi nutesthenthey
    bot
    hnodandwal koutleavingmewi thhi
    m.
    Hi
    m:*wal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    hebed*hi
    *tr
    yst
    o
    smi
    le*
    Me:
    youl
    ookscar
    yandangr
    y.
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    es*
    thanks
    Me:whatdi
    dthedoctorsay?Whatwrong
    withme?Andwhattheheckiswrongwith
    you?y
    oudon'tl
    ooksohot .
    Him:
    ouch,
    don'twor
    ryaboutmeuhm t
    he
    doct
    orsai
    dyouconsumedsomethi
    ngt hat
    coul
    dabortt
    hebabybu..
    ..
    Me:
    baby
    ?Whatbaby
    ?
    Hi
    m:y
    oudi
    dn'
    tknow?
    Me:
    knowwhat
    ?
    Hi
    m:t
    haty
    ouar
    epr
    egnant
    .
    I
    '
    m pr
    egn.
    .II
    '
    m pr
    egnant
    ?Wai
    th.
    .
    Me:
    wai
    tyouj
    ustsai
    dI.
    ..
    Hi
    m:t
    hebabysur
    viv
    ed.
    Me:
    I'
    m st
    il
    lconf
    used,
    Idi
    dn'
    tcons.
    ..
    Hi
    m:Thandekapouredsomesor
    tofpowder
    i
    nyourdri
    nkmeaningsheknowsabouty
    our
    pr
    egnancy.
    Thati
    swhyshewaslooki
    ngatmy
    gl
    ass,
    that
    'swhyshewant
    edtohangout
    .
    Me:buthowdidsheknowwhenIdi
    dn'
    t
    knowmy sel
    f.
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tknowbutshe'
    sgonnapayf
    or
    t
    ryi
    ngtoki
    llmybaby.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Iki
    ndoft
    hatsexyy
    ouknow.
    Hi
    m:*
    laughs*
    you'
    recr
    eepy
    .
    Hisangeri
    ssl
    owl
    yfadi
    ngandhel
    ooksl
    ess
    scar
    ynow.
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkshe'
    ssomehowconnect
    edwi
    th
    t
    heenemyofmine.
    Hi
    m:orshei
    stheenemy
    .
    Me:
    noshe'
    snotI
    '
    m sur
    eofi
    t.
    Theconver
    sationeandherhadisplayi
    ngi
    n
    myhead,
    ev er
    ythi
    ngisclearnowshe'
    s
    worki
    ngforsomeone,someonewho's
    off
    eri
    nghermoneybutt hequest
    ionisWho?
    Hi
    m:whyar
    eyousosur
    e?
    Itel
    lhi
    m aboutt
    heconv
    ersat
    ionIhadwi
    th
    her.
    Me:
    she'
    sdef
    ini
    tel
    ywor
    kingwi
    tht
    heenemy
    .
    Him:
    *cl
    enchinghisj
    aws*
    thenl
    etmegof
    ind
    outwho,
    takecareofmybabyok.
    Hebrushesmytummyandpl
    antaki
    sson
    myli
    psandwalksout
    .
    TashaandZ'yandawalkbackin,
    Ihav
    egot
    togetoutofhereIam notsaf
    e,t
    he
    bodyguar
    dsmi ghtbeoutsi
    demydoorbutI
    am notsaf
    eIcanf eel
    it.
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t56~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    /
    /
    Me:
    mom comeonI
    '
    mfi
    ne.
    Mom:
    Iwantt
    oseef
    ormy
    sel
    f.
    Me:y
    oudon'thav
    etoopl
    usI
    '
    m pl
    anni
    ngt
    o
    comether
    esoon.
    Mom: r
    eal
    l
    y?Havey
    out
    alkedt
    oyour
    husbandf
    irst
    ?
    Me:
    noty
    etbutIwi
    l
    ltal
    kyohi
    mlat
    er.
    Mom:okthenIguessI'l
    lseeyousoon,
    do
    t
    akecareofmygr andchi
    ldok?
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    wil
    ldo.
    Her:
    Ican'
    tbel
    i
    eveI
    '
    m goi
    ngt
    obea
    gr
    andma.
    Shesay
    sthatex
    cit
    edl
    y.
    Her :
    andIcan'tsaythesameforyour
    father,
    hesayshe'stooyoungtobea
    grandfather
    *giggl
    es*
    Me:
    *giggl
    ing*
    you'
    vegott
    otel
    lhi
    m he'
    sno
    l
    ongeryoung.
    Her
    :I
    'l
    ltr
    y,Ihav
    etogohoneyIl
    ovey
    ou.
    Me:
    Ilov
    ey out
    oomom andal
    sosendmy
    l
    ovetodad.
    Her
    :wi
    l
    ldoby
    e//
    .
    Thesef
    li
    ppingdoct
    orsdonotwantt
    o
    di
    schar
    geme, t
    heyhavenoi
    deawhat'
    sat
    st
    akehere.
    "
    Heybaby
    "say
    smymot
    heri
    nlawwal
    ki
    ngi
    n.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    heymom.
    Her
    :howar
    eyou?
    Me:I
    '
    m hospi
    tal
    sick,
    Ineedt
    ogetoutof
    her
    e.
    Her
    :whatdot
    hedoct
    orssay
    ?
    Me:
    thatI
    'm st
    il
    lweakt
    heycan'
    tdi
    schar
    ge
    meyet.
    Her
    :may
    bey
    oushoul
    dli
    stent
    othem.
    Me:Iknowhowt otakecareofmy
    sel
    fmom
    Inolongerwanttobehere.
    Her:
    *si
    ghs*
    Iwi
    sht
    her
    ewassomet
    hingI
    coul
    ddo.
    Me:
    Iwantt
    ogohome.
    Her
    :Iknowb.
    ..
    Me:
    nothomeasi
    nmyhousebuthomeat
    t
    hepal
    ace.
    Her
    :*shocked*
    wh.
    .why
    ?
    Me:I
    'm notsaf
    eher
    eandIknowMJcan
    pr
    otectmebuthewilll
    osehisl
    i
    fetr
    yingt
    o
    pr
    otectmeandIcan'tr
    iskt
    hatmah.
    Her
    :whatdoy
    oumeanl
    oosehi
    sli
    fe?
    ?
    Me:al
    lIknowi sthatsomeonewil
    ldi
    eifI
    st
    ayhereIneedt ogohomecauseIknow
    noevi
    lwillgettomet her
    e,Imi
    ghtdi
    e,
    MJ
    mightdie,mychi
    l
    dmightdi
    e,
    topr
    evental
    l
    ofthatIneedt
    ogohome.
    Her
    :wher
    e'sal
    loft
    hiscomi
    ngf
    rom?
    Me:
    From Ncami
    andshe'
    snev
    erwr
    ongmah.
    "
    ThenIguessy
    oushoul
    dgo"
    It
    urnmyheadtothedoorandfi
    ndMJ
    l
    eani
    ngonthedoorlooki
    ngal
    lsort
    sofsex
    y.
    Mah:
    howl
    onghav
    eyoubeenst
    andi
    ngt
    her
    e?
    Him:l
    ongenoughtoknowthatmywif
    eand
    chi
    ldarenolongersaf
    eher
    eandItr
    ust
    Ncami.
    Mah:o.
    .Mbal
    enhl
    est
    opundr
    essi
    ngmyson
    i
    nfrontofme.
    MJ:*
    chuckl
    es*
    letmywif
    eundr essme
    pl
    ease,
    goundr
    essyourhusband.
    Mah:
    Mel
    okuhl
    e!!
    MeandMJl
    aughather
    .
    MJ:
    l
    etmegosi
    gny
    ourdi
    schar
    gingf
    orms.
    Me:
    butt
    hedoct
    orssai
    dI.
    .
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tcar
    ewhatt
    heysai
    d.
    Hesay
    sthatwal
    ki
    ngout
    .
    MJ:*
    shout
    ingf
    rom out
    sidemyroom*What
    ar
    eyoutwosti
    lldoi
    nghere?Youar
    efi
    red!
    !.
    JeezMJwi thhisdr
    ama,I'l
    lhavetot
    al kto
    hi
    m hecan'tfi
    redmybody guardshe'sthe
    onewhot oldt
    hem theyarenotall
    owed
    i
    nsidethehouseunlessitisanemer gency
    andtheydidn'
    tknowitwasanemer gency
    causenobodytoldt
    hem.
    Mah:Iknowwhaty ouarethi
    nki
    ngdon'
    t
    worr
    yI '
    l
    ltalkt
    ohim,he'
    sexactl
    yli
    kehi
    sdad
    bot
    hhi m andKhaya.
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    howwasi
    tli
    kel
    i
    vingwi
    th
    t
    hem?
    Her:
    i
    twaslikeli
    vi
    ngwi
    th2
    demonds,
    rascal
    swhoIreal
    l
    ylov
    e*smi
    l
    es*
    Wecont i
    nuetal
    kingandl
    aughing,after2
    hoursMJcomesbackwi thmycl othes,I
    changeandwel eave,
    Mjt
    hejaguarisr at
    her
    tooclosetomewayt oocl
    ose.
    .
    ~
    Me:
    didy
    ouf
    indoutwhoshe'
    swor
    kingf
    or?
    Hegivesmeanuncer t
    ainlook,
    ohboowhoo
    hethi
    nksIdon'tknowhe'sagangst
    erj
    ust
    l
    ikemybrotherandtheguys.
    Me:
    don'
    tl
    ookatmel
    i
    ket
    hat
    .
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m afrai
    dIcan'
    tshar
    ethati
    nfor
    mat
    ion
    wi
    thyou.
    Me:
    whynot
    ??
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    thav
    ear
    eason.
    Me:*
    sighi
    ng*
    isi
    twhyy
    oucan'
    tdr
    iveme
    downhome?
    Him:yeah,
    nowthatIknowwhotheenemyi
    s,
    Ineedtofindh.
    .*
    hestopshi
    mself
    *
    Me:At
    hii
    sav
    ail
    abl
    e,he'
    stheonewho'
    l
    l
    dr
    iveme.
    Hi
    m:Iknow,
    I'
    veal
    readyspokenwi
    thhi
    m.
    Me:
    youwhat
    ?
    Hi
    m:comeher
    eletmet
    alkt
    omydaught
    er.
    Nxxt
    hishusbandofmi
    ne.
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    it'
    sason.
    Hi
    m:noit
    'snot
    ,IknowwhatIpl
    ant
    edi
    n
    t
    heresodon'
    targuewi
    thme.
    Ir
    oll
    myey
    esf
    ini
    shi
    ngupwi
    thpacki
    ng,
    Athi
    wi
    l
    lbeher
    einanymi
    nut
    enow.
    Me:
    babe
    Hi
    m:mmmh
    Me:
    didy
    oubuymyoni
    onr
    ings.
    Hi
    m:mmh?
    Me:
    MJ*
    hit
    ti
    nghi
    m wi
    tht
    hepi
    l
    low*
    Hi
    m:*l
    aughi
    ng*
    chi
    l
    lwomenKhay
    aisonhi
    s
    waywit
    hthem.
    Me:
    whydi
    dn'
    tyoubuyt
    hem?
    Thedoorbel
    lri
    ngs.
    Hi
    m:t
    hanky
    oul
    ord.
    Hespr
    ingsof
    fthebedr
    unni
    ngout
    .
    Me:
    buddywhat
    'swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ou?
    Seri
    ouslysomet
    hingisupwithhi
    m,hehas
    beengluedtomeev ersi
    nceIwasatthe
    hospi
    talevenwhenwegothere,
    heusual
    l
    y
    runsaroundortakesanapwhenwe'
    re
    i
    ndoorsbuttodayhe'sgl
    uedt
    ome.
    Khay
    abudgesi
    nhol
    dingmyoni
    onr
    ings.
    Khay
    a:wi
    fey
    .
    Me:
    hubby
    .
    MJ:
    voet
    sek!
    !
    MeandKhay
    alaughourheadsout
    .
    Khay
    a:j
    eal
    ousydoesn'
    tsui
    tyou.
    MJ:babeAt
    hii
    sdownst
    air
    s,Khay
    agett
    he
    bags.
    Khay
    a:what
    ?Whyme
    Mj
    :
    becausey
    ..
    Ijustt
    akemyphone,bagandmyonionri
    ngs
    thenIwalkoutwi
    thmj st
    il
    lst
    uckt
    ome,I
    l
    eav et
    hesetwoargui
    ngaboutwhoshould
    t
    aket
    hebags.
    Me:
    *shout
    ing*
    ALLIKNOW I
    STHATINEED
    MYBAGSDOWNASI NNOW!
    mcm,
    Ifi
    ndAt
    hit
    alki
    ngwi
    tht
    hephone.
    Him:ai
    mar
    nTom don'
    tyoudar
    egonearmy
    house.
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:Iwi
    l
    lmur
    dery
    ou
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:voet
    sek,
    gof
    indagi
    rl
    fr
    iendandt
    ell
    her
    t
    hat.
    Ibethesai
    dhelovedhi
    m,Khay
    aandMJ
    walkdowncar
    ryi
    ngmybagsbot hofthem,
    theywal
    koutpr
    obablyt
    akingt
    hem tothe
    car.
    At
    hi:
    arey
    our
    eadyt
    ogo?
    Me:
    yeahar
    eyou?
    Hi
    m:meani
    ng?
    Me:don'
    tyouwantt
    ogocheckuponTom
    f
    ir
    st*gi
    ggli
    ng*
    Hi
    m:nxxi
    fhet
    hrowsapar
    tyatmyhouseI
    '
    ll
    ki
    l
    lhi
    m.
    Me:
    *l
    aughi
    ng*
    hehashi
    sownhousemos.
    Hi
    m:exact
    ly.
    Wewalkoutgoingt
    othecar,If
    ir
    stl
    yopen
    f
    orMjwhorefusestogeti
    nthecargod
    whati
    supwithhim.
    Athi
    :Khay
    adomet hi
    sonefav
    our,make
    sureTom doesn'
    tgonearmyhouse.
    Khay
    a:why
    ?
    At
    hi:
    hewant
    stot
    hrowapar
    tyt
    her
    e.
    Khay
    a:butaghdj
    ddj
    f*hemumbl
    est
    hatpar
    t*
    At
    hi:
    what
    ?
    Khay
    a:Iwasi
    nvi
    ted.
    At
    hi:
    ohgodI
    '
    m goi
    ngt
    oki
    l
    lTom.
    Khay
    a:t
    ell
    youwhatI
    '
    llmakesur
    enot
    hing
    br
    eaksok.
    Ij
    ustshakemyheadandf
    ocusonmy
    husband.
    Me:wehavetogetgoi
    ngit
    'sget
    ti
    ng
    l
    ate,
    we'
    llpr
    obabl
    ygetther
    einearl
    yhour
    s.
    Hehol
    dsmywai
    stbr
    ingi
    ngmecl
    osert
    o
    hi
    m.
    Hi
    m:assoonasIfindt
    hispersonanddeal
    wi
    thh*hestopshi
    mselfagai
    n*I'
    ll
    come
    f
    etchyouokay.
    Me:andy
    ou'
    l
    ltel
    lmewhot
    hisper
    soni
    s
    r
    ight?
    Hi
    m:may
    be.
    Ir
    oll
    myey
    es.
    At
    hi:
    okl
    ovebi
    rdsweshoul
    dgetgoi
    ngnow.
    MJ:
    giv
    eusasec.
    Khaya:
    they
    'r
    eabouttokiss,
    comeAt
    hil
    et'
    s
    showthem howitdone*
    pouts*
    At
    hial
    sopout
    s.
    Me:
    youwoul
    dn'
    t
    Theystopmi dwayandl aughatthei
    r
    si
    ll
    inessnxIt houghtt
    heywoul dki
    ssand
    I'
    m gladthateventhoughtheylovethe
    samegi r
    l t
    heystil
    ldogetalong.
    MJ:
    well
    seemsli
    keyoufai
    l
    ed,
    l
    etusshow
    t
    he2ofyouhowi
    t'
    sdone.
    Il
    ookupt
    ohim andhebr
    ingshi
    shead
    downmeet
    ingmehalf
    wayandourli
    ps
    col
    li
    de,Isl
    owl
    yclosemyey
    esenj
    oyi
    ngt
    he
    thi
    stenderki
    ss.
    Khay
    a:nxxf
    uckenshowof
    fs.
    Webr
    eakt
    heki
    ss.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Ihear
    tyouwi
    thev
    ery
    thi
    ngi
    n
    me.
    Hi
    m:*
    smil
    est
    oo*
    andIhear
    tyouwaymor
    e
    t
    hant
    hat
    .
    Me:
    i
    mpossi
    ble
    Him:
    *chuckl
    es*
    goodby
    ebabe*
    let
    ti
    ngme
    go*
    Me:
    bye.
    Iopent
    hef
    rontseatandwai
    tforMj
    tohop
    i
    nbuthest
    andsstil
    l
    .
    Me:
    wehav
    etogonowhopi
    n.
    I
    nst
    eadhepushesmyl
    egsi
    nsi
    det
    hecar
    ,i
    s
    heplanningonstayi
    ngbehind?Ijustsi
    gh
    andgetin,j
    ustasI'
    m abouttoclosethe
    doorhejumpsi nonmeandl aysonme, I
    cl
    oset hedoorandAthistar
    tstheignit
    ion.
    Me:
    ohkbuddyyouaret
    oohuget
    obel
    ayi
    ng
    onme,
    gotothebackseatt
    u.
    Hej
    ustcont
    inuesl
    i
    cki
    nghi
    sfurnotmi
    ndi
    ng
    me.
    Me:
    wowokayt
    hen*
    thr
    owi
    ngmyhandsi
    n
    t
    heair
    *
    Athi
    :l
    etmeguesshedoesn'
    twantt
    ogoat
    thebackseat
    .?
    Me:
    nobutatl
    eastI
    '
    m comf
    ort
    abl
    eev
    en
    t
    houghhe'
    sheavy.
    Hechuckl
    esandf
    ocusesont
    her
    oad.
    ~
    It
    'ssodar
    kandI'm sl
    eepybutIt
    hinkwear e
    about30minut
    esawayf r
    om thepalaceand
    I.
    ..
    At
    hi:
    arey
    ouok?You'
    rebr
    eat
    hingheav
    il
    y.
    Icl
    osemyey esanddosomebreat
    hing
    exer
    cisest
    henopenmyeyes.
    Me:
    I'
    m okIj
    usthav
    ethi
    sreal
    l
    ybadf
    eel
    i
    ng
    t
    hatwon'
    tgoaway.
    Hi
    m:wea.
    .
    Gunshotsgoof
    fhitt
    ingoneoft
    hecar
    windowsIdon'
    tknowwhichoneisi
    tcause
    myey esar
    enowclosedandAthii
    ncr
    eases
    hi
    sspeed.
    Hi
    m:GETDOWN!
    !
    How?WhenMj i
    sont opofme,gunshot
    s
    keepsgoi
    ngoffbreaki
    ngmor ewindows,
    I
    openmyey eswi
    thMj weir
    dlyhol
    dingonto
    meri
    ghti
    naprot
    ect
    iveway,
    Il
    ookatAthi
    oh
    mygodhe'
    sbl
    eedi
    ngonhisstomuch.
    Me:
    ohmygodAt
    hiy
    ou'
    rebl
    eedi
    ng.
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    llbef
    inej
    ustkeepy
    ourheaddown.
    Abul l
    etgoesthr
    oughhischestcomi
    ng
    fr
    om behindandhegroansinpainwhi
    leI
    scream wit
    htearsr
    oll
    i
    ngdown.
    Me:
    *cr
    ying*
    Athi
    stopt
    hecar
    Hi
    m:*groans*noI
    *gr
    oans*we
    ar
    e*gr
    oans* al
    mostt
    here.
    Anotherbul
    l
    etcomesf
    rom behi
    ndgoi
    ng
    thr
    oughhischest
    .
    Me:
    ATHINOH!
    *scr
    eami
    ngwhi
    l
    ecr
    ying*
    Thegunshot
    sst
    op,Il
    ookbehindwhi
    l
    e
    cr
    yingt
    heymusthavet
    urned.
    Me:
    Athi
    stopt
    hecar
    !
    Hekeepsdri
    vi
    nglooki
    ngdr
    owsywhi
    l
    e
    gr
    oaningi
    npain.
    Me:
    Athi
    !!St
    opt
    hegoddamncar
    !!
    Hi
    m:W.
    .ear
    e*gr
    oans*
    her
    e.
    Hest opsthecarohgodwear ealr
    eadyat
    thepalace,
    Iqui
    cklyopenthedoorandMj
    j
    umpsout ,
    Ispr
    ingouttooshout
    ingatthe
    guards.
    Me:Opent
    hegat
    eandgett
    hepal
    acenur
    se
    qui
    ckly
    .
    IruntoAthi
    '
    ssi
    dewi
    pingmyt
    ear
    s,Iopen
    thedoor.
    Me:someonepl
    easecomehel
    pme,
    Athi
    pl
    easehangint
    here.
    Hi
    m:I
    ..
    I'
    m af
    rai
    d*gr
    oans*
    Ican'
    t.
    Me:
    nononononodon'
    tsayt
    hat
    *tear
    srun
    downagai
    n*
    Hi
    m: *
    shaki
    ng*te.
    .l
    lTeesh..
    sheh.
    asandwil
    l
    al
    ..
    .waysbbbbbethell
    o..
    veoffmyli
    fe*
    he
    cl
    oseshiseyes*
    Me:
    pleasedon'
    tdot
    hispl
    ease.
    "
    He'
    sgonemychi
    l
    d"
    Itur
    nmyheadandf
    indncami
    standi
    ng
    behi
    ndme.
    Me:nomahther
    ehast
    obesomet
    hingIcan
    do*
    cryi
    ng*
    Her:
    youheal
    mychi
    l
    dyoudon'
    tbr
    ingdead
    backtol
    if
    e.
    Ishakemyheadnotbel
    i
    evinghe'
    sgone,
    he
    savedmyli
    fe,
    i
    twassupposedtobeme.
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t57~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Mom:Mbal
    enhl
    eopenup!
    !*
    knocki
    ngonmy
    door
    *
    Isni
    ffhol
    dingmyknees.
    Her
    :honeypl
    easeopenupf
    orme,
    youhav
    e
    t
    oeat.
    Me:
    thanksmom butI
    '
    m nothungr
    y*I
    whi
    sperasi
    fshe'
    snextt
    ome*
    Dad:
    mylovei
    t'
    smedaddy,
    pleasebabyyou
    ar
    ebreaki
    ngmyhear
    tpl
    easeopenupf orus.
    Ishakemyheadasi ftheycanseeme,af
    ter
    2mi nutesIhearf
    ootst
    epsgoingawayfr
    om
    myr oom, I
    '
    vebeenclosingmysel
    finmy
    room for4dayscryi
    ng,Athi
    '
    sbodywassent
    backt oJo'burgimmediatelythesunr ose
    onthedayhedi ed..
    .t
    omor r
    owi t
    'shis
    funeralandNcami sai
    dIcannotgocause
    apparentlyiti
    sstil
    ldangerousoutt here.I
    wisht her
    ewassomet hingIcoulddo, Athi
    waswayt ooy oungtodie.Myhusbandhas
    beencal l
    ingmet hesepast4day sbutI 'm
    nottakinganycal l
    sfrom anyoneIjustwant
    tobeal oneandIwantt oat t
    endAt hi'
    s
    funeral.
    SomeoneknocksonmydoorandIj
    ustl
    ook
    att
    hedoorsil
    ent
    lycr
    ying.
    "
    Babe"
    it
    'sMJ
    Hi
    m:pl
    easeopenupf
    orme.
    Hesoundssoweak,wai
    tifhe'
    sherethat
    meanshehastakencareoftheenemyright
    ?
    Iwipemytear
    sstandi
    ngupandwal ktothe
    door,
    Ii
    nhal
    ebefor
    eopent hedoorandmy
    eyesgoesfr
    om smallt
    odoubleextr
    a
    l
    arge,
    he..
    helookst
    otal
    lyi
    njur
    edhelooks
    l
    ikehe'
    sbeenf i
    ght
    ingwit
    halion.
    Hi
    m:mayIcomei
    n?*
    hesay
    sthati
    npai
    n*
    Imakewayforhim andhesit
    sont opofmy
    bedwhi
    chiskindofami ssi
    onforhim.
    Icl
    earmyv
    oice.
    Me:
    whathappenedt
    oyou?
    Hi
    m:ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    answermyquest
    ionpl
    ease.
    MJ:
    notunt
    ily
    ouanswermi
    nef
    ir
    st.
    Me:
    *si
    ghing*
    phy si
    cal
    lyI
    '
    mfi
    nebut
    emot
    ional
    lyI
    'm not.
    Him:y
    ourmothertel
    l
    smet haty ouhaven'
    t
    beeneat
    ing,
    babeIgetthatyou're
    tr
    aumati
    zedbutther
    e'sasoulinsideofyou.
    Me:I
    'm nothungr
    yokIwi
    l
    leatwhenI
    '
    m
    hungr
    y.
    Him:soAt
    hi'
    sdeat
    hisnotwor
    thi
    tto
    you,
    goodtoknow.
    Me:
    what
    ?
    Him:*groans*Athi
    diedsavi
    ngyouandour
    chil
    d'
    slifebuthereyouarenottaki
    ngcar
    e
    ofyourselfi
    ncludi
    ngourchil
    dwhichmakes
    Athi
    'sgooddeedseem wor thl
    ess.
    Me:
    I.
    .uhm I
    ..
    Hi
    m:okdon'tdoi
    tformedoi
    tforAt
    hi
    pl
    easeeat
    .
    Isi
    ghandtur
    nonlytofi
    ndmom st
    andi
    ng
    wit
    haplàt
    efull
    offood.
    Iweakl
    ysmil
    eathert
    aki
    ngt
    heplat
    eand
    pl
    aceitont
    hebedandgi
    veherahug.
    Me:t
    hanky
    ouandI
    '
    m sor
    ryf
    orshut
    ti
    ngy
    ou
    out
    .
    Her:
    *br
    ushesmyback*i
    t'
    sokhoneyIknow
    whatyou'
    regoi
    ngthr
    oughishar
    dforyou
    nowletmegiveyout
    wosomespace.
    Webreakthehugandshewal
    koutcl
    osi
    ng
    t
    hedoor.
    Me:bef
    oreIeatt
    ell
    mewhathappenedt
    o
    you?
    Hi
    m:fornowIwanttolaydown,I
    '
    llt
    ell
    you
    ev
    ery
    thingwhenIhaverest
    ed.
    Helay
    sont
    hebedcl
    osi
    nghi
    sey
    eswhi
    l
    eI
    di
    gin.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Theguyswer
    eseat
    eddr
    inki
    ngatAt
    hi'
    s
    house.
    Tom:
    sohe'sr
    eal
    l
    ygone?Henev
    ergott
    oki
    l
    l
    mefort
    hrowi
    ngapar
    tyher
    e.
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*
    heowedme5k.
    Chr
    is:
    andhenev
    ergott
    ohel
    patget
    ti
    ng
    Bel
    l
    a.
    Zugo:
    thi
    sisgoi
    ngt
    ocr
    ushSi
    pho.
    Chri
    s:y
    eaheventhoughmeandSi phohave
    knowneachotherforl
    ikemor et
    hanhe
    knowsAthi,
    hewasmor eclosert
    ohimthey
    under
    stoodeachotherinawaywest i
    l
    l
    don'
    tget.
    Tom:theycl
    i
    ckedont
    hef
    ir
    stdaywemet
    Athi
    .
    Theyal
    lsmi
    l
    eremember
    ingt
    hatday
    .
    Tom:
    *fr
    owns*
    weneedt
    oav
    engehi
    m.
    Zugo:
    i
    t'
    sli
    key
    ou'
    rer
    eadi
    ngmymi
    nd.
    Chris:
    weshoul dfi
    ndwhoeverdi
    dthisand
    havethem lockedupandwewi l
    ldealwit
    h
    thatpersonafterZugo'
    sweddi
    ng.
    Tom:
    whenwi
    l
    loursui
    tsgether
    e.
    Chr
    is:
    theyar
    epr
    obabl
    yont
    hei
    rway
    .
    Zugo:ar
    ewer eal
    l
    ygoi
    ngt
    owearbl
    uesui
    ts
    i
    naf uneral
    ?
    Tom:dude!Thati
    swhatAt
    hialwayswant
    ed
    andjustsoyouknowi
    nmyf uneral
    Iwant
    youguystowearli
    mesuit
    s.
    Zugo:
    nowt
    hat
    'sabsur
    d.
    Tom:i
    tiswhatIwantsoy
    ou'
    l
    ldoi
    tli
    kei
    tor
    not
    .
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*
    aft
    ert
    hef
    uner
    alweneed
    t
    odr
    ivedownt
    othev
    il
    laget
    oseeMbal
    i
    .
    Tom:
    yeah,
    shemustber
    eal
    l
    ytr
    aumat
    ized.
    Zugo:andaft
    ert
    hat,
    wegost
    rai
    ghtt
    ofi
    ndi
    ng
    who'sbehindal
    loft
    his.
    Tom andChr
    isnodandt
    heycont
    inue
    dri
    nki
    ng.

    Meanwhi
    l
    e..
    .
    Person1:
    whyarey
    oupacki
    ng?Andwhat
    happenedtoy
    ou?
    Person2:
    Ineedt
    olaylowforsometi
    me
    andcookupaplanthenI'
    l
    lcomeback.
    Per
    son1:
    what
    ?why
    ?
    Per
    son2:i
    tseemsli
    keMbal
    enhleisnotonl
    y
    power
    ful
    butsheisal
    sosur
    roundedby
    power
    ful
    people.
    Per
    son1:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Person2:
    forthesepast2day
    sI'
    vebeen
    fi
    ghti
    ngwi t
    hherhusbandwhoisver
    y
    powerful
    Iunder est
    imat
    edhi
    m.
    Person1:
    youcant
    ransf
    ormint
    oacheet
    ah
    whichhumancoul
    dpossibl
    ybepower
    ful
    thanthat
    .
    Per
    son2:
    ahumanwhocanal
    sot
    ransf
    orm.
    Per
    son1:
    *shocked*
    what
    ?How?I
    ntowhat
    ?
    Person2:
    well
    Idonotknowwhatexact l
    y,he
    becamesohuget hatIacheetahseem l
    i
    ke
    adogi nhi
    seyesi
    nf actapuppy,y
    oushould
    begladthatI
    '
    m notbackingdown.
    Person1:i
    fyoufeell
    ikeyounolongerwant
    todothisthenI'
    llt
    otal
    lyunder
    standcause
    i
    tsoundsl i
    kethi
    sjustbecamemor e
    dangerous.
    Person2:ohnoI '
    m notgoi
    ngtobackdown
    now,thatthronewil
    lbeoursandIsuggest
    thatyoualsopackandgot ohidi
    ngcause
    ourcov erhasbeenblown.

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    Imi
    ssSi
    phosobadr
    ightnow.
    Ncami
    :
    andIbethemi
    ssesy
    out
    oo.
    Me:
    Iwi
    shhewasher
    e.
    Mom:ohhoneyst
    opt
    ort
    uri
    ngy
    our
    sel
    fli
    ke
    t
    his.
    Me:
    I'
    mjustscar
    edmom.
    Mom:andit'
    soktobescar
    edmybaby ,
    ohl
    et
    megoat t
    endthi
    sroyal
    meeti
    ng*
    kissi
    ngmy
    f
    orehead*
    Shewal
    ksout
    .
    Ncami
    :
    how'
    syourhusband?
    Me:
    he'
    sweakandbr
    uised,
    hei
    sst
    il
    lrest
    ing.
    Ncami
    :
    whyhav
    en'
    tyouheal
    edhi
    m?
    Me:he'stheonewhosai
    dIshoul
    dn'
    tdothat
    ev
    eragai nbutI
    'mthi
    nki
    ngofgoi
    ngtoheal
    hi
    mr ightnow.
    Her
    :oki
    t'
    supt
    oyou.
    Me:
    doy
    ouknowwhathappenedt
    ohi
    m?
    Her
    :hewasi
    naf
    ightwi
    thy
    ourenemy
    .
    Me:wowsomyhusbandal
    mostl
    osthi
    sli
    fe
    becauseofme.
    Her:
    he'syourhusbandwhatel
    sewashe
    supposedtodo?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    Ihat
    emyl
    i
    fe.
    Her
    :don'
    tyouev
    ersayt
    hatev
    eragai
    n*she
    say
    sthatf
    ir
    mly
    *
    Ir
    emai
    nsi
    l
    entf
    oramoment
    .
    Me:i
    sther
    eawayIcanhealhim andnot
    endupwithhi
    sbr
    uisesal
    lovermybody?
    Her
    :nope.
    Me:he'
    sgoingt
    obemadatmebuther
    e
    goesnothi
    ng.
    Isghwal ki
    ngtomyr oom wher eIf
    indhi
    m
    sti
    llsl
    eepingpeacef
    ull
    y,Ikneelnextt
    othe
    bed,cl
    osemyey esandst arttheheal
    ing
    processusingtheAirel
    ement ,
    makingsureI
    speaksof t
    lysoMJwon' twakeup.
    Me:Guardi
    ansoft
    heAi
    rel
    ementIcal
    lupon
    youa..
    "
    Whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng"
    Iqui
    ckl
    yopenmyey
    esput
    ti
    ngmyar
    ms
    down,
    shi
    t.
    MJ:MbalenhleIaskedy ouaquest
    ion,
    i
    n
    caseyoudidn'tgeti
    tletmeaskagainWhat
    areyoudoing?
    Me:
    Iuhm IwasI
    ..
    err
    *looki
    ngdown*
    Hi
    m:y
    ouwer
    eaboutt
    oheal
    mewer
    en'
    tyou?
    Me:
    uhhy
    eah*
    Isayt
    hatl
    owl
    y*
    Hi
    m:whatdi
    dIsayaboutt
    hat
    ?
    Hesoundssupr
    isi
    ngl
    ycal
    m.
    Me:
    tonev
    erdoi
    tagai
    n.
    Him:*si
    ghs*
    Idon'thavethestr
    engthto
    shoutatyoubutifyouattempttodothat
    agai
    nwewi llhav
    eapr oblem,
    doy ougetme?
    Me:
    yeah.
    Hi
    m:nowst
    andupandj
    oinme.
    Ist
    andupj
    oini
    nghi
    minbed.
    Him:babeIthi
    nkbeingpregnanthasn't
    regi
    ster
    edinyourheadbecauseev eryt
    hing
    youdo,youdoitwit
    houtthinki
    ngwhat
    mighthappentoourchil
    d,t
    hisismyf i
    rst
    chil
    dbabeandIdonotwantt oloosehim or
    hersopleasethi
    nkaboutthethingsyoudo
    andhowt heymightaff
    ectourbaby .
    Me:
    you'
    reri
    ghtIhav
    en'tbeenthi
    nki
    ngabout
    t
    hebabyandIam tr
    ulysorry
    .
    Him:i
    t'
    sokaslongasyou'l
    lpr
    omiset
    otake
    careofyour
    sel
    fandourjuni
    or.
    Me:
    Ipr
    omi
    se.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    good.
    Me:
    ohi
    stheenemyoutoftheway
    ?Iwoul
    d
    r
    eal
    l
    yli
    ketoat
    tendAt
    hi'
    sfuner
    alt
    omor
    row.
    Hi
    m:unf
    ort
    unat
    elyshegotaway
    .
    Me:
    she?
    ??
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    yeah.
    Me:
    wow,
    whoi
    sshe?
    Hel
    ooksatmef
    oragoodmoment
    .
    Hi
    m:i
    tisy
    ourcousi
    nSma.
    Me:
    *shocked*
    WHAT!
    ?
    Him:y
    eahherandherfat
    herar
    eaf t
    ert
    he
    thr
    oneandtheyseeyouasathreat
    somehow.
    Wowaftersomanyy
    ear
    smyuncl
    ehav
    en'
    t
    gi
    venup.

    ~i
    nser
    t58~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Zugo:
    hewasl
    aidt
    orestwi
    thdi
    gni
    ty.
    Me:
    wishIwasal
    sot
    her
    e.
    Chri
    s:I
    '
    m sureAthi
    under
    standswhyy
    ou
    coul
    dn'tcome.
    Zugo:
    ohandTom cr
    ied.
    Tom:
    Idi
    dnot
    .
    Igi
    ggl
    e.
    Zugo:
    stopdenyi
    ngit
    ,youwerel
    i
    ke"
    ahwhy?
    OhAthiwhy"yousoundedl
    i
    keawomen.
    Il
    aughmyheadoutj
    eez.
    Tom:
    whyar
    eyoul
    yi
    ng?
    Zugo:
    *smil
    es*t
    omakepri
    ncessl
    aughand
    i
    t'
    sworkingbutyoudi
    dcr
    y.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    thanks,
    how'
    sTashahol
    dingup?
    Zugo:*
    sighs*
    whatIknowi
    sthatwher
    ever
    sheisshe'samessandsheshut
    ti
    ng
    ev
    ery
    oneout
    .
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    didshecomet
    othef
    uner
    al?
    Chri
    s:yeahbutshedidn'
    tst
    ayt
    oolongI
    thi
    nkitwastoooverwhel
    mingf
    orher,
    Ial
    so
    thi
    nkyoushouldtal
    ktoher.
    Me:I
    '
    vebeent r
    y i
    ngtogetahol
    dofherbut
    shedoesn'
    ttakemycalls,
    shedoesn'
    trepl
    y
    tomytextshe'sshut
    ti
    ngmeout .
    Tom:may
    bey
    oucanaskhersi
    stert
    otal
    kto
    her
    .
    Me:
    wel
    ltheydon'
    texact
    lygetal
    ong.
    Chri
    s:y
    ucks,
    wel
    lwehopesheget
    sthr
    ough
    thi
    s.
    Wet al
    kali
    tt
    lemor
    eandIthankthem for
    checki
    nguponmebefor
    etheyleaveforthe
    ci
    ty.
    Iwal
    kyomyroom andf
    indMJr
    eadi
    nga
    bookuhwei
    rdIt
    elly
    ou.
    Me:
    shoul
    dn'
    tyouber
    est
    ing?
    Hi
    m:*
    looksupatme*
    I'
    m notsi
    cky
    ouknow.
    Me:Iknowbutj
    ustsoy
    oucanheal
    you
    needtorest
    .
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    mti
    redofsl
    eepi
    ng.
    Me:soy
    oudeci
    dedt
    oread?That
    'ssounl
    i
    ke
    you.

    Isayt
    hatsi
    tt
    ingnextt
    ohi
    m.
    Hi
    m:Ihav
    enothi
    ngt
    odosowhynot
    *shr
    ugs
    hi
    sshoul
    der
    s*
    Me:bythewayy oudi
    dn'tt
    ell
    mewhat
    exact
    lyhappenedtoyou.
    Hi
    m:*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *ar
    etheguy
    sal
    ready
    gone?
    Me:st
    opchangi
    ngt
    hesubj
    ect
    ,Ineedt
    o
    know.
    Hi
    m:noy
    oudon'
    t
    .
    Me:whyisi
    tsohar
    dfory
    out
    otel
    lmewhat
    happenedt
    oyou?
    Hi
    m:doy
    our
    eal
    l
    ywantt
    oknow?
    Me:
    yeah.
    Him:Iwasi
    nvol
    vedi
    naf
    ightwi
    thy
    our
    cousin.
    Me:andshegav
    eyout
    hosedeepscr
    atches
    yeahri
    ght.
    Hi
    m:youseey
    oudon'
    tev
    enbel
    i
    eveme,
    why
    woul
    dIli
    e?
    Me:comeonbabewhatki
    ndofhuman
    wouldgi
    vesomeonedeepscr
    atchesl
    i
    ke
    t
    his?
    Him:Idon'
    tknowmaybetheonet
    hat
    t
    ransformsint
    oacheet
    ah.
    Ilookathim andbur stouttolaught
    eroh
    yeaht hat
    'sagoodone, tr
    ansformsy eah
    ri
    ghtasi fthathappensinrealli
    fe,
    aftera
    mi nuteIcatchmybr eathmyst omachev en
    hur t
    s.
    Me:okbabenowareyoureadyt
    otel
    lme
    whathappenedl
    i
    keforreal
    ?
    Hegi
    vesmeal
    ookt
    hatIcan'
    tread.
    Hi
    m:i
    fyoudon'
    tbel
    i
    evemet
    henok.
    Me:
    ser
    iousl
    y?
    Hegi
    vesmeast
    rai
    ghtf
    ace.
    Me:
    youwantt
    oknowwhyIdon'
    tbel
    i
    eve
    t
    hat
    ?
    Hej
    ustr
    aisehi
    sey
    ebr
    ow.
    Me:becauseahumani snomat chfora
    cheet
    ah,i
    fyouwerereall
    yfighti
    ngwithmy
    cousi
    nwhoi sa"cheet
    ah"y ouwouldbe
    dead,
    sotellmehowdidy ouf i
    ghtwit
    ha
    cheet
    ah?Didyoualsotransform?*r
    oll
    ing
    myey es*
    Hi
    m:y
    ouknowwhatl
    et'
    sjustdr
    opi
    t.
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Hi
    m:causey
    oudon'
    tbel
    i
    eveme.
    Me:
    giv
    emeav
    ali
    dreasonwhyIshoul
    d.
    Hi
    m:Ial
    s..
    ..
    nev
    ermi
    nd.
    Me:*
    sighi
    ng* thereareal
    otofthi
    ngsyoudo
    notwanttot ell
    meandIdon'tknowwhy ,
    don'
    tyoutrustmeenought otell
    me?you
    knowwhati tcool l
    etmemakeacall.
    It
    akeoutmyphone.
    MJ:
    comeonbabeyouknowthatItr
    usty
    ou
    wi
    thmyl
    if
    e,pl
    easedon'
    tsayt
    hat.
    Sadnessi
    swr it
    tenallov
    erhi
    sface,It
    otal
    l
    y
    i
    gnorehim andcallKhayawhopicksup
    aft
    erafewr i
    ngs./
    /
    Hi
    m:wi
    fey
    ,howar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    m al
    sogood.
    Me:
    good,
    l
    ooki
    needaf
    avourf
    rom y
    ou.
    Hi
    m:whatki
    ndoff
    avour
    ?
    Me:
    theonet
    hatr
    equi
    rest
    alki
    ng.
    Hi
    m:okshoot
    .
    Me:
    coul
    dyoupleasecheckuponTashaf
    or
    meandtal
    ktoher.
    Hi
    m:uhhuhm t
    alkaboutwhat
    ?
    Me:itcanbeanythi
    ng,
    shejustneeds
    someonet otal
    ktoori
    ghtnowIknowbut
    I'
    m notther
    etodoso.
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    butI
    ..
    Me: Iknowi t
    'stoomucht oaskforbut
    pleaseKhay a,y
    ouar etheonl
    yoneIcan
    thinkofr i
    ghtnowsi nceZ'
    yandaisal
    soout
    oft own,pret
    typlease.
    Hi
    m:okf
    ineI
    '
    llgocheckuponher
    .
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    thanky
    ou,
    thanky
    ousomuch.
    Hi
    m:alri
    ghtl
    etmegett
    oit
    ,sayhi
    tomy
    br
    otherforme.
    Me:
    wil
    ldoohandt
    ell
    hert
    ogetbackt
    o
    me,
    bye.
    Hi
    m:by
    e.
    /
    /
    Me:
    Khay
    asay
    shi
    .
    MJ:soyouar
    ejustgonnai
    gnor
    emej
    ust
    l
    ikethat
    ?
    Me:lookIgett
    hatatsomet hingsyouare
    notreadytoopenuptomey etandtrustme
    Irespectt
    hatbutther
    earesomet hingsyou
    don'twanttot
    ellmewi t
    houtgivi
    ngme
    reasons.
    Hi
    m:*l
    ooksatmecuri
    ousl
    y*whatdoy
    ou
    meannotreadyt
    oopenup?
    Me:Iknowthatsomethi
    nghappenedtoy
    ou
    wheny ouwere18butdon'
    tworryI'
    l
    lwai
    tti
    l
    l
    youarereadytotel
    lmewhatiti
    s.
    Hel
    ooksatmeasi
    fhehasseenaghost
    .
    Hi
    m:how?
    Me:
    thesamewayIsawTashawasbei
    ng
    r
    aped.
    Hi
    m:*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *ohuhm I
    ..
    .
    Me:
    l
    ikeIsai
    dI'
    ll
    wai
    tti
    l
    lyouar
    ereadyt
    otel
    l
    mewhatiti
    s.
    Him:andit
    'snott
    hatIdon'tt
    rustyouwith
    somet hi
    ngsasyou'
    vesaiditjustthatI
    knowy ouarenotst
    rongenought ohandle
    thosethi
    ngsespeci
    all
    ysinceyouar e
    pregnant
    .
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    okIunder
    stand*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    .
    °
    Khay
    a°

    I
    tismyt hi
    rdt
    imecominghereandast he2
    previ
    oust i
    mesiti
    satnight,
    andthi
    st i
    me
    I
    'mr eall
    yscar
    ed,whati
    fherparentsare
    home, whatwi
    llt
    heysay?.Ibr
    eathoutloud
    beforeknocki
    ngonthedoorandaf terafew
    secondsJenopensf ormethankgodi
    t
    wasn'tnei
    therofherpar
    ent
    s.
    Jen:
    *fr
    owns*
    ohi
    t'
    syou,
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    ?
    Me:
    yesme,
    I
    'm her
    etoseeTasha.
    Her
    :shesai
    dshedoesn'
    twantt
    osee
    any
    onesoby e.
    Shet
    ri
    estocl
    oset
    hedoorbutIbl
    ocki
    twi
    th
    myhand.
    Me:wel
    lshecall
    edmet ocomeov erIguess
    shedi
    dn'tt
    ell
    youthatnowarey ougoingto
    l
    etmeinorshouldIletmysel
    fin?
    Isayt
    hatcoldl
    yandshegi
    v esmean
    uncer
    tai
    nlookbefor
    emakingwayforme
    anddir
    ectsmetoTasha'
    sroom.
    Me:t
    hanks,
    ohandj
    ustsoyouknow,
    Ist
    il
    l
    don'
    tli
    keyouandy
    ouratt
    it
    ude.
    Iwal ktoTasha'sr oom andsi nceitisnot
    l
    ockedIl etmyselfin,
    Ifindhersitti
    ngbyher
    windowl ooki
    nglikeat otal
    messandt ears
    streami ngdownhercheeksandIcan' thelp
    butf eelalit
    tl
    ebitjealousyeahdi dn'thavea
    problem wi t
    hAthi butIcan'thelpbut
    wonderi fi
    twasmewhodi edwoul dshebe
    l
    iket his?

    "Aghmar nKhayagetaholdofyourself,
    you
    areinnopositi
    ontocompar ey
    ourselfto
    Athi
    ,theywerehighschool
    sweethearts"my
    subconscioussaystome.

    Icl
    earmyt
    hroatt
    ogetheratt
    enti
    on,she
    l
    ooksatmeandquickl
    ywipeoffhertear
    s..
    ..
    Igr
    abachai
    randgoseatnexttoher.
    Me:
    hi
    Her
    :hey
    *shesay
    sthatwi
    thhoar
    sev
    oice*
    Me:Mbal
    ii
    sworri
    edabouty
    ouwhyar
    eyou
    shut
    ti
    ngherout
    ?
    Her
    :*si
    ghs*
    Ijustwantt
    odeal
    wit
    hthi
    spai
    n
    f
    ir
    st.
    Me:
    andhowi
    sthatwor
    kingoutf
    ory
    ou?
    Sher
    emai
    nssi
    l
    ent
    .
    Me:
    l
    etushel
    pyou.
    Her
    :hel
    pmehow?Hel
    pmef
    orget
    ?
    Me:no,
    Athiwast
    hel
    oveofyourli
    fesowhy
    wouldwewantyout
    oforgetabouthi
    m?Let
    ushelpyouheal
    .
    Her
    :*sni
    ff
    s*how?
    Me:
    byopeni
    ngupt
    ous.
    Her
    :byusdoy
    oual
    soi
    ncl
    udey
    our
    sel
    f?
    Me:
    uhm y
    eah.
    Her:*
    sighs*
    Ijustfeell
    ikethi
    snotonly
    becausehe'sgonebutal sobecauseInever
    tol
    dhim howIf eel,
    ImeanItoldyout hatI
    l
    ov eyoubutInev ert
    oldhimthatIalsolove
    him.
    Me:tr
    ustmeheknowst hatyoul
    ovehim
    andifyoudon'
    tbel
    i
    ev emeIcan
    accompanyyoutohisgravetot
    ell
    himthat
    .
    Her
    :*chuckl
    es*
    Itr
    usty
    ou.
    Me:nowy ouhavetogetupandfocuson
    yoursel
    f,At
    hii
    sgoneandhe'snevercomi
    ng
    backthat'
    sthereal
    i
    tyweallhav
    etoface.
    Her:
    yousayi
    tasi
    fyouwantmet
    ofor
    get
    hi
    m.
    Me:noofcoursenotwhywouldIwantyou
    f
    orgetabouthim whenIknowthatt
    ryi
    ngt
    o
    f
    orgetsomeoney
    oul
    oveisl
    iketry
    ingt
    o
    r
    emembersomeoneyou'
    venevermet.
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    true.
    Me:yeahj
    ustfocusonyoursel
    fandmay
    be
    l
    ateryouwil
    lfi
    ndloveonceagain.
    Her
    :cani
    tbey
    ou?
    *looksst
    rai
    ghtatme*
    Ifi
    twerefewmonthsagoIwoul
    dbe
    comingbackfr
    om themoonwit
    h
    exci
    tementnow.
    Me:
    j
    ustonequest
    ion,
    whowerey
    ougoi
    ng
    t
    opickbet
    weenmeandAthi
    ?
    Shedropsherey es,pl
    ayswithherfi
    ngers
    whil
    esayingnothing.It
    'sobv
    iousthatshe
    wouldhavepickedAt hiandt
    rustmeI '
    m
    coolwit
    hthat.
    Me:
    ther
    ei sasay
    ingt
    hatsays"ev
    ert
    hing
    t
    hatyoulove,
    youwil
    lev
    entual
    l
    ylose,buti
    n
    theendl ovewi
    llr
    etur
    ninadif
    fer
    entform"
    andy esIlovey
    ou,youknowthatbutthe
    dif
    ferentformi
    nthiscasef
    ormei s
    fri
    endship.
    Her:
    *si
    ghs*
    Iunderst
    andandthanky
    ou,
    and
    al
    sothankyouforbei
    ngher
    e.
    Ismileather .Honestl
    yspeakingInever
    thoughtoft hefri
    endshipthi
    ngtil
    lnow,I
    alwaysthoughtofbei nginarelat
    ionshi
    p
    withherbutnowseei ngthatshewould
    havenev erchosemei tmakesmer eali
    ze
    thatther
    e'snot hi
    ngmor eIwouldaskf r
    om
    herbutfriendship.

    ~i
    nser
    t59~


    4mont
    hsl
    ater

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    MJ:mydadtotal
    l
    yunderst
    andswhatyou'
    ve
    beent
    hroughsotrustmehewon'
    tfi
    reyou.
    Me:Ihat
    esayingt
    hisbutli
    fewaseasi
    er
    whenIwasNokwanda, Idi
    dn'
    thave
    enemiescausenooneknewme.
    Hi
    m:comeondon'
    tsayt
    hat
    .
    Me:buti
    t'
    sthet
    rut
    h,ImeanlookAt
    hil
    osthi
    s
    l
    if
    ebecauseofmenowIal wayssl
    eep
    wonderi
    ngwho'
    snext.
    Him: f
    irstofal
    lnoneofthi
    sisbecauseof
    yousi nceyoudidn'
    tdoanythi
    ngsecondl
    y
    stophav ingnegat
    ivet
    houghtsyouare
    stressingoutmybaby.
    Hesay sthatbr ushingmyt ummyi thas
    reall
    ygr own, I'm now5mont hspr egnant
    nextweekI 'llbet urni
    ng6mont hs,Z'yandais
    onherl astmont hshe' l
    lbegi vi
    ngbi r
    thsoon
    andherweddi ngwasamazi ngguy s,her
    andZugol ov eoneanot herthere'snodoubt
    thereweal somadeherababyshowershe
    total
    lydidn'texpecti tweal soi nvolvedher
    mot her,
    sister sandcousi nbutt heguy s
    endedupcr ashi ngourbabyshower
    wear i
    ngpi nkshi rtsandbabybl ueshor t
    s
    withgi f
    tbagst hewayt heyl ookedador abl
    e
    weev enfor gott hattheywer en' tall
    owed
    butall i
    nall theweddi ngandt hebaby
    showerwasasuccess.I nthese4mont hs
    nothingmuchhashappenedexceptus
    comi ngbackt ot hecity
    ,seewhathappened
    i
    sIt alkedtodadaboutSmaandherf at
    her
    hewasf urioushesai dhedoesn' twant
    them tobepuni shedhewant stokillt
    hem
    byhisbar ehands, hesenttheguardst ogo
    fetchthem andunf or
    tunat
    elytheywer eno
    l
    ongert herewef i
    guredoutthatsincewe
    knowt hatitisthem whowant smedead
    theyranawaysowecamebackt ot hecit
    y
    butIknowt hatthisisfarf
    rom beingov er.
    ~
    °
    Chr
    is°

    Ahht heresheiswi t
    hherbeautif
    ull
    onglegs
    crosseddr i
    nki
    ngherusual cupofcoff
    ee,
    stari
    ngintospaceIwonderwhati ti
    sthat
    sheal waysthi
    nkaboutal mostever
    yday
    thatsheendsupzoni ngout,t
    hewait
    er
    bringsherabillandshedoeswhatshe
    doest hemost"f aki
    ngasmi l
    e*shehasgot
    alotoft hoseIwonderwhyt hough,
    shepays
    herbi llandst andsup, f
    ixesherdr essev en
    thoughi tl
    ooksf inetomej ustl i
    keev er
    yday
    andi t'ssomet hingIhavenot icedabouther
    shel ikesf i
    xinghercl ot
    hesi t
    'sl i
    keshe
    beli
    ev est hatt heyaren'
    tsitti
    ngper f
    ecton
    her.Shewal ksrightpassmenotev en
    noticingmeasal waysandwal ksout
    l
    eav ingherl av enderscentst ucki nmy
    nose, Isighandpaymybi l
    landal sowal k
    out.Igost raightt oworkandt hemomentI
    gett omyof fi
    cemyP. Astartsf i
    ll
    ingmei n.
    Her:
    Goodmor
    ningsi
    r,
    woul
    dyoul
    i
    keacup
    ofcoff
    ee?
    Me:Sar
    ahIhavetoldyouathousandt
    imes,
    I
    dri
    nkcoff
    eeeverysingl
    edaybefor
    eIcome
    heresonoI'
    mf i
    ne.
    Her
    :ohy
    eahI
    '
    m sor
    ry.
    Me:
    nopr
    obl
    em,
    sowher
    ewer
    eyou?
    Her
    :youhav
    etohandl
    east
    affmeet
    ingi
    n
    30minut
    es,at
    ..
    .
    Me:wai
    twhat
    ?That
    'snotmyj
    obwher
    e'sMr
    St
    hole.
    Her:accordi
    ngtotheCEOhesentanemai l
    yesterdayni
    ghtsayinghewon'tmakeitt
    o
    wor ktodayduetopersonalr
    easonssohe
    placedy oui
    nhisplaceonlyf
    ortoday
    .
    Ihavegottof
    ini
    shupwi t
    hmypresent
    ati
    on
    andgetinv
    est
    orsforowncompanyand
    stopworki
    ngforpeopl
    eIwannabemyown
    bossnow.
    Her:
    andat1pm youhav eameetingwit
    h
    MissBrownf r
    om Bi
    yelaHoldi
    ngs,t
    heone
    youpostponedyest
    erday.
    Me:ohyeahokcoul
    dyoucall
    inMissuhm
    i
    t'
    sMi ssIhav
    efor
    gotherl
    astnamebut
    she'
    stheheadofHR.
    Shenodsandwalkoutwhi
    l
    eIpr
    epar
    efor
    thi
    sst
    affmeet
    ing.

    Ohbythewaythenamei
    sChri
    stopher
    Bhenguy'
    al
    lknowmeasChr
    is.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Z'yandawakesupwi thal i
    ttl
    ebitofpai
    non
    herabdomenandwai stthatsheendsup
    wal ki
    nglikeanoldper sonholdingher
    tummy .Sheslowlywal kstothekit
    chen
    withherl egsapart
    ,shef i
    ndsbreakfast
    alr
    eadymadewi t
    hanot enexttotheplat
    e
    thatreadsl i
    kethi
    s:-
    "Morningmylovelywife,
    asy oucanseeI'
    m
    nothomeIhadt or ushtotheoff
    icebutI
    madebr eakf
    astjustli
    kethewayy oul
    ike
    i
    t,I
    '
    llseeyouinaf ewhoursloveyou"
    Sheplacest henoteasi
    dewi t
    hasmi leas
    sheattacksherscrumptiousbreakf
    astbut
    shedoesn'tfini
    shitasshefeelssomething
    burstbetweenherlegs,
    shescr eamstaking
    herphone,Zugobeingonherspeeddi al
    comesi nhandyi nti
    meslikethese,
    hepicks
    upafter4rings./
    /
    Zugo:
    heybabeIreal
    lycan'
    ttal
    kri
    ghtnow
    themeet
    ingisabouttost.
    ..
    .
    Z'
    yanda:
    FUCKYOUZUGOMARN!DON' T
    TELLMESHIT,
    DON'
    TFUCKI
    NTELLME
    ABOUTSTUPIDMEETI
    NGS!
    !*
    breat
    hing
    heavy
    *
    Zugohadhi
    sey
    esal
    loutandal
    i
    ttl
    escar
    ed.
    Zugo:
    woahbabewhat
    'swr
    ong?Whatdi
    dI
    do?
    Z'y
    anda:
    *br
    eathesinandout*
    youknocked
    meupnowy ourt
    hingwant
    stocomeoutso
    bri
    ngyourf
    latassherebef
    oreIgi
    vebir
    thin
    thi
    sgoddamnki t
    chen.
    Zugo:
    thebabyi
    sont
    heway
    ??
    Z'
    yanda:
    you'
    reluckyyouarenotinfr
    ontof
    meohhahhhorI 'l
    lbeahhhhkicki
    ngyour
    bal
    lsgether
    eeeeee.
    Zugoquickl
    ydropst
    hecal
    lspri
    ngi
    ngupon
    thechai
    rrunni
    ngtot
    hedoor.
    "
    Wher
    earey
    ougoi
    ng?Themeet
    ingi
    sabout
    t
    ost
    art
    "
    Hedoesn'
    tanswerhecont
    inues
    r
    unni
    ng,whenhegetst
    ohiscarhereal
    i
    ze
    t
    hathewil
    lbestuckontr
    affi
    cforal
    ong
    ti
    mesohecal
    lsMJsinceheknowshe'
    s
    cl
    osebyandt
    heguy
    sar eatwork.

    MJr ushestoZ'y
    andaandfindsherdoi
    ng
    somebr eat
    hingexer
    ciseswhil
    ewalki
    ng
    around.
    MJ:
    MrsZugoI
    '
    m her
    etot
    akey
    out
    otheh.
    ..
    Z'
    yanda:
    stopt
    alki
    ngcar
    rymet
    othecar
    .
    MJ:
    *shocked*buty
    ousouhhuhm.
    .
    ZYanda:
    huge?Iknownowcarrymetothe
    fl
    i
    ppingcar
    *shespeakst
    hroughhert
    eeth*
    MJsi ghsandpicksupZ' yandaandt akes
    hertothecarandhet r
    iest opl aceherat
    thebackseatbutsheblanklyr efuses
    wantingtoseatatthefrontsoshecan
    l
    owert heseatandbreathsni cely.MJdoes
    soandst ar
    tstheigni
    ti
    on.
    Z'
    yanda:
    *br
    eat
    hingf
    astandheav
    y*FASTMJ
    MARN!!
    MJ:
    *shockedbyhert
    one*
    excuseme?
    Z'
    yanda:
    youar
    emmmmmhexcusednow
    st
    eponit.
    MJcont i
    nueswi t
    hthepacehe'sri
    ding
    at,
    andZ'yandaopensherlegsfeel
    ingthe
    urgetopush..
    MJl ooksatherwit
    ht he
    cornerofhiseye.
    MJ:
    whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng?
    Z'
    yanda:
    whatdoesi
    tlooksl
    i
    keI
    '
    m doi
    ng?
    I
    'm gi
    vi
    ngbir
    th.
    Sheget
    sreadyt
    opush
    MJdoesn'
    taskmor equesti
    onshest epson
    i
    tanddri
    vesi
    nf ul
    lspeedbeggingZ'yanda
    t
    ohangon,whenheget stothehospitalhe
    f
    indsZugoal
    readywaiti
    ngforthem,Zugo
    t
    ri
    est
    otakeZ'
    yandaf
    rom MJ.
    Z'y
    anda:
    Don'
    ttouchme,
    youmademel
    i
    ke
    thi
    s!!
    Zugo:
    butbabeI
    ..
    .
    MJjustr
    ushesheri
    nsi
    deandnur
    sest
    ake
    ov
    er.
    MJ:
    ndoda(
    man)y
    ourwi
    fei
    sheav
    yyey
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*begl
    adt
    hatshedi
    dn'
    t
    heary
    ousayt hat
    .
    ThenurserushestoZugoandMJmaki ng
    Zugopanickcauseithasbeenaminute
    si
    ncetheydisappear
    edwithhiswi
    fe.
    Zugo:
    what
    'sgoi
    ngon?
    Nurse:
    she'
    saski
    ngfort
    hebot
    hofy
    out
    o
    comesopleasefol
    l
    owme.
    Zugopani
    cksev
    enmor
    eashef
    oll
    owst
    he
    nurseandMJhesi tant
    lyfol
    l
    owsbehind.
    Theywal ki
    nthelabourroom wi
    thZ'y
    anda
    screamingherl
    ungsoutmaki ngZugo's
    heartbr
    eakseeingherliket
    hat.
    Zugo:
    doct
    orwhat'
    sgoi
    ngon,
    whyi
    sshe
    scr
    eaminginpai
    n?
    Doc:
    thi
    sisnot
    hingsir,
    mam yourhusbandi
    s
    her
    enowpushpl easebef
    orethebabygets
    hur
    t.
    Z'
    yandapusheswhil
    eholdi
    ngZugo'
    shand
    ti
    ghtandscr
    eamingevenmore.
    MJcoul
    dn'
    thandl
    ethescr
    eami
    ngi
    npai
    nso
    hewal
    ksout
    .

    MeanwhileSanel
    epacedupanddowni n
    hi
    shot el
    room i
    mpati
    entl
    ywaiti
    ngforhi
    s
    package,
    aknockcomesthroughhequickl
    y
    rushestoitandf
    indsadel
    i
    ver
    ymanwi
    than
    envelope.
    Hi
    m:del
    i
    ver
    yforMrZuma.
    Sanel
    e:t
    hati
    sme.
    D.
    m:pl
    easesi
    gnher
    eformesi
    r.
    Hesi
    gnsandt
    akest
    hepackage.
    D.
    m:enj
    oyt
    her
    estofy
    ourdaysi
    r.
    Hewal ksawaywhi l
    esaneleclosesthedoor
    andopenst heenvelopewithrush,
    hegoes
    thr
    ought hei nf
    ormat i
    onthathegotfrom
    someonewhoi sanony mousfornow,when
    he'
    sdoner eadingthroughhe'
    smout hgoes
    dryfr
    om t heshock.
    Him:
    but..
    .butwhywouldR.Tkil
    lNsika?
    Mcm itdoesn'tmat
    teral
    lIhav
    et odoisfi
    nd
    outwhoisR. Tandavengemybr ot
    her.
    .
    ~inser
    t60~

    "
    It
    'sagi
    rl
    "
    Thedoct orplacesheronZ' yanda'
    s
    chest,
    Z'yandasmi l
    esf ai
    ntl
    ysinceshe'
    s
    deadt i
    redshesl owlytur
    nsherheadt ol
    ook
    atZugowhoi ssheddingat earwitht
    he
    biggestsmileonhi sface.
    Zugo:
    *l
    ooksatt
    hedoct
    or*
    canIhol
    dher
    ?
    Thedoctorsmi
    lesandshowhim howt
    o
    holdher
    ,hehol
    dshergent
    lysheddi
    ngmor
    e
    tear
    s.
    Zugo:
    hel
    l
    opr
    incessofmyhear
    t.
    Z'y
    anda:*
    scrat
    chyvoice*
    heyIt
    houghtIwas
    thepr
    incessofyourheart
    .
    Zugo:
    ohnosweet
    hear
    tyou'
    ret
    hequeenof
    myhear tandt hi
    scopyofyouisthe
    princess,shewoul dhavet
    akenyourpl
    acei
    f
    shecameoutl ookingl
    i
    kemebutshe
    didn't
    *pout s*
    Z'
    yanda:
    Icar
    ri
    edherf
    orgoddamn9
    months,
    shehadt
    olookl
    ikeme.
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughssoftl
    y*sowhatnamewi
    lly
    ou
    gi
    veher?Ial
    readyknowtheoneI'
    l
    lgi
    veher
    .
    Z'
    yanda:
    Iwast
    h..
    .
    Shegetsdi
    stur
    bedbyTasha,
    Mbal
    enhl
    e,her
    motherandhersi
    ster
    s.
    Tasha:
    don'
    tyoudaretel
    lmey
    ouwer
    e
    aboutt
    onamet hebaby.
    Z'
    yanda:
    ofcour
    senot
    ,howcoul
    dI?
    Tasha:
    yeahr
    ight
    ,soi
    sitaheorshe?
    Z'
    yanda:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    she.
    Thyal
    lscr
    eam i
    njoy
    .
    Zugo:
    shhhhyou'
    remaki
    ngnoi
    sebabyKi
    ara
    i
    ssleepi
    ng.
    Ev
    ery
    one:
    ncooooo
    Thedoctort
    akesbabyki
    araf
    rom herf
    ather
    andwalksoutwit
    hher.
    Tasha:
    butwehav
    en'
    tseenher
    *sul
    ks*
    Mbal
    i
    :yeaht
    hisdoct
    ori
    sunf
    air
    *sul
    kst
    oo*
    Zugo:
    don'twor ryladiesyou'll
    seehernow
    canwegi vemywi fesomespace, sheneeds
    tobecleanedupandr est,
    ohand
    baby*
    smi l
    es*thanky ouf orsucha
    wonderfulgi
    ft
    * plantsaki ssonherl i
    ps*
    and
    youowemeanewhandy oubrokesome
    bonesont hi
    sone.
    Theot
    her
    slaugh.
    Z'
    yanda:haha,
    anywaymom wil
    lgi
    ve
    ki
    ara*
    smi l
    es*herot
    hername,
    nowpleaseal
    l
    ofyouleave.
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*
    Ilov
    eyou.
    Theyallwal
    koutandbumpintotheguys,
    Mbalenhlet
    hrowsher
    sel
    ftoherhusband.
    Her
    :Imi
    ssedy
    ou.
    MJ:buti
    thasn'
    tbeenbar
    ely2hour
    ssi
    nceI
    l
    eft
    .
    Lenhl
    e:Iknow*
    smi
    l
    es*
    .
    Tom:
    enoughy
    outwoyouarealmost
    maki
    ngmewishIhadagi
    rl
    fri
    end.
    Chr
    is:
    j
    ustgetagi
    rl
    fr
    ienddude.
    Tom:
    wuuuhl
    ookwho'
    stal
    ki
    ng.
    Chr
    is:
    what
    ever
    ,nowwher
    e'st
    hebaby
    ?
    Tom:
    nother
    eobv
    iousl
    y.
    Theycont i
    nuegoingbackand
    fort
    h,Z'
    yanda'smom namebabykiara
    Noluthando,soi
    t'
    soff
    ici
    alshe'
    sNolut
    hando
    Kiar
    aGumede.
    ~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Babyki
    araisadorablej
    ustli
    kehermommy
    andshe'
    sgotherdaddy '
    seyes,any
    wayI'
    m
    nowathomewi thMJmassagi ngmyf eet
    andMj t
    hejaguarlay
    ingnexttomewithhis
    headl
    aidsoftl
    yonmyt ummy .
    MJ:
    baby
    Me:
    mmmh
    Him:pr
    omisemenott
    oshoutatmeoruse
    theword"
    marn"t
    hedayyou'
    l
    lbegi
    vi
    ng
    bir
    th.
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    didZ'
    yandashowy
    ouf
    lames?
    MJ:yeahbutnotcompar
    edt
    othef
    lames
    sheshowedZugo.
    Me:*
    laughi
    ng*
    wel
    lI'
    m notpr
    omi
    sing
    any
    thing.
    Hechuckl
    esandst
    andst
    osi
    twher
    eMj
    is
    seat
    ed.
    Me:woahMji
    sseat
    edher
    esi
    tont
    hissi
    de*
    I
    patonmyri
    ght*
    Heseat
    sonmyr
    ight
    .
    Him:I
    'v
    ebeenmeani
    ngtoask,
    whatr
    eall
    y
    happenedbet
    weeny
    ourfamil
    yandyour
    uncl
    e?
    Me:from whatdadtol
    dusuhm hi m and"my
    uncle"werecl
    osegrowingupandt hathe
    neverhadapr obl
    em wit
    hdadt aki
    ngov er
    thethronesi
    ncedadistheoldersonbutthe
    daydadwascr ownKi ngunclechangedhe
    want edthethronealltohimselfsay i
    ngdad
    gotitallwhil
    ehegotnot hingturnsouthe
    want edmom butsi ncehecoul dn'tgether
    hewentaf terthenextbestthingbei ngthe
    throne,whenhedi dn'
    tsucceedi nkil
    lingdad
    thefirstt
    imewet houghthegav eup
    plus,daddidn'
    tdoany thi
    ngtohi m he
    forgavehim sayinghe'l
    ltur
    nabl indey ebut
    Iguesswewer ewr ongtothinkhegav eup.
    Hi
    m:y
    ucks.
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    yeah
    Him:*
    sighsdeepl
    y*It
    hink*
    sighsagai
    n*I
    t
    hinkI'
    mr eadyt
    otell
    youuhm toopenupto
    you.
    If
    acehi
    m.
    Me:
    yousur
    e??
    Hi m: *si
    ghs* growi ngupmom anddadwer e
    har dlyther e,
    asy ouknowt hatmom i sa
    housewi fewel lshewasnev eroneshewas
    i
    nt ot ourism sheusedt otrav elaroundt he
    wor ldal otanddadr efusedt olethiswi fe
    travel allalonewi t
    hhungr ymanar oundt he
    wor ldsoheal way swentwi thherwhen
    she' st r
    avel i
    ng, duringt heschool holidays
    theywoul dletmeandKhay atagal ongbut
    mostoft het imest heywoul dleav euswi th
    uncl e,notasi nt akeust ohi shousenohei s
    theonewhocamet oourhomeandst ay
    wi t
    husmor elikebaby situsandwedi dn'
    t
    mi ndcauset hecool estuncl eev er,
    whenI
    turned16If iguredt hatI '
    mt oooldt ohav ea
    baby sit
    terandIcoul dlookoutf ormy
    brot heronmyown, andsur pri
    singlydad
    didn' thaveapr obl em wi tht hathesai dhe
    wi l
    l haveuncl echecki nguponusev erynow
    andt henwhenhi m andmom ar e
    away ,every
    thi
    ngwer ef i
    nesowhenIwas18
    Ihadt ogot ovarsi
    tyandKhay awas16t hat
    ti
    mehesai dhecanst ayalonehedoesn' t
    mi ndbutasabi gbrotherIt houghtitwoul d
    bebesti funclecameandst ay
    edwi thhim
    butKhay ausedthe"wheny ouwer e16y ou
    didn'tneedababy si
    tter"cardonmesoIl et
    hi
    m bebutongr oundst hatuncl ewillbe
    checki nguponhi m nowandt hen..
    .
    Me:*gi
    ggl
    ing*youtur
    nedi
    ntoy
    ourdadata
    youngagey ouknow?
    Hi
    m:haha
    Me:wai
    tIhaveafeel
    i
    ngli
    ket
    hisuncl
    e
    you'
    ret
    alki
    ngabouti
    sn'
    tMrMcKenzi
    e.
    Hi
    m:noi
    t'
    snotuncl
    eSt
    hei
    tisdad'
    stwi
    n.
    Me:
    ohokcont
    inue.
    Him:soIwentt ov arsit
    yandt hingswent
    smoot hIwoul dcal lKhay aeverynowand
    then,onedayi twasThur sdayIwokeupi na
    badmoodt hinki ngaboutKhay aandal soI
    hadabadf eelingt elli
    ngmet ogohome, I
    skippedmycl assesandwenthomewhenI
    gotthereIex pect edt ofindnoonehome
    sinceitwasThur sdaybutIwassupr isedto
    hearKhay a'
    sv oicecomi ngfrom hi sroom, I
    walkedupt ohi sroom andt hecl oserIgotI
    heardhim pleadi ng,pleadingnott ogetshot
    Irushedtohi sr oom butIf i
    rstwentt omi ne
    whichwasnextt ohi sIgr abbedt he
    baseballbatandwentt ohisandl uckil
    ythe
    doorwashal fcl osed, Imar chedi nreadyto
    stri
    kewhoev eri twasbutqui cklystopped
    whenImetagunpoi nt
    edatmebymyuncl e
    andKhay aont hef l
    oorwi thhishands
    ti
    ed,hetoldmet odr opthebatorel sehe'll
    blowmybr ainsoutIdi dast oldf eari
    ngmy
    l
    ifehet i
    edmet oachai randwentbackt o
    Khay aandunt i
    edhi mt henst oodi nf r
    ontof
    him poi nti
    ngagunathi m het oldKhay a
    to*hepausescl osinghi sey est henopens
    them* tount i
    ehisbel tandbl owhi m,both
    meandKhay alookedathi m shockedhe
    wasser ious,Khayaf ear i
    nghi sl ifeslowly
    unt i
    edt hebel tandl ower eduncl espant s
    alongwi thhisbr i
    efsIcoul dn' twat chmy
    brotherbl owhi m soIt oldhimt oletmedo
    i
    tinst eadi nfactIbeggedhi m andhet ied
    Khay aupandunt iedme, Iwentdownom
    kneesl ooki ngathi smanhoodatt hat
    momentt het houghtt hatwasr unningi nmy
    mi ndwas" bitehisst upiddi ck"buti tlikehe
    readmymi ndcausehepl acet hegunonmy
    headandsai dIshoul dn' tt
    hinkabouti tI.
    ..
    i
    suckedhi m* helooksaway *Ikeptgoi ngt i
    ll
    heexpl
    odedinmymout handfor
    cedmeto
    swal
    lowaft
    erthatIwasashamedtoev
    en
    l
    ookatKhaya.
    Hisvoicei
    str
    embl i
    ngmytear
    sar
    efl
    owi
    ng
    down,he'
    ssti
    l
    llooki
    ngaway.
    Him: Ithoughtt hatwasi tbutIguessIl ied
    tomy selfcausehet oldmet oundr essI
    was18mymi ndwasshar psoIknewwher e
    thatwasgoi ngIbl anklyref
    used,hepoi nted
    thegunatKhay aandshothi slegand
    Khay acr iedinpai n,hewasaboutt oshoot
    him agai nIqui cklyst ooduptakingof fmy
    clotheshe* sni
    ffs*her aped
    me* sni f
    fs* whenhewasdonel eftafter
    threateni ngust onotsayawor dabout
    that,Iwipedmyt earsandunt iedKhay aand
    wentst raighttomyr oom andl ockedmy sel
    f
    i
    nt her e.Mom anddadcameback2day s
    l
    aterIwasst i
    lll
    ockingmy self
    up,Khay a,
    tr
    iedtotalktomebutIdi dn'topen
    upf orhim,dayswentbyIst il
    lstayedi nmy
    room noteat i
    ngnotdoi ngany thingj ust
    stari
    ngi nt
    ospace, Iguessdadf igured
    somet hingwasupandt hatKhay at oldhimI
    washomeheknockedaski ngmet oopen
    thedoorbutIdi dntIhear dhim wal king
    away ,
    afterami nutehecamebackwi t
    h
    mom heknewIcoul dn'tsaynot omom. .
    whenmom st artedpleadingmet oopent he
    doorIt ookmyheadsetsoIcoul dnothear
    herpleadscauseImi ghtendupopeni ng
    thedoor ..
    .t
    henex tdaydadpi ckedt hel ock
    andhecamei nwithmom andKhay a,mom
    cri
    edt hemomentshesawmesay ingIhav e
    l
    ostt oomuchwei ghtanddadaskedme
    whathappenedbutInev eranswer ed
    him,mom dr aggedmet ot heeatingr oom
    anddi shedupamount ainformeandby
    l
    ooki ngatt hef oodmyst omachmade
    somenoi sesi nceIhadn' tateindaysIt ook
    aspoonandshov edini nmymout hbutt he
    momentIswal lowedIr emember edt helast
    thingIswal lowedandIf elturgetot hrowup
    Iquickl ydr ankwat ertoav oi
    dquest ionsand
    pushedt hepl ateawayashungr yIwasI
    hadl ostappet i
    te,Khay awasl ookingatme
    witht ear yey esanddadaskedagai nwhat
    reall
    yhappenedIst i
    llneveranswer edhi m
    sohej ustsi ghedandt r
    iedtomakeupa
    conv ersat ionwi thmebutIwasn' t
    i
    nt er
    est edi nt alkingIjustwant edtobe
    alone,het hent alkedaboutr emov ing
    camer asi nKhay a'sroom whi chIhad
    compl etelyf or gottenabout .
    ...
    sothet heis
    dadi nst alledcamer asinbot hofourr ooms
    tomakesur ewedon' tgetupt onogood, he
    remov edthem i nmyr oom whenIwas16
    sayingI'm ol
    dandsi nceKhay awasal so16
    i
    twast ime..
    afterdi nnerIwentt olock
    my selfupagainandsentKhay aat ext
    tel
    li
    nghi m heshoul dnotsl eepcauseat
    midnightwehav et osneaki ntot he
    surveil
    lancesyst em r oom anddel et e
    Thursday '
    sfoot age,Icoul dhav edonei t
    my selfbutdad'ssy stem ishi ghlypr otected
    andonl yKhay acoul dgett hroughi t,hegot
    goodwi t
    hcomput ersatav eryy oungage, I
    pacedupanddownwai t
    ingf ormi dni ght
    causeIcoul dn'triskdadseei ngt hat
    footage,manyt hingswer erunni ngi nmy
    headl i
    kewhati fdadseest hef oot ageand
    goest oconfrontuncl eanduncl eki ll
    sdad
    andcomesbackandki llmeandKhay a.
    Midnightcameandi tlikeKhay adi dn'tsleep
    toocausehe' st heonewhocamet of etch
    me,wewentupt ot hesurveill
    ancesr oom
    andwecoul dseet hatt heli
    ght swer eonas
    usual,
    wewer eshockedt ofindt her oom ina
    compl etemess, comput ersbr okenand
    scatt
    er edont hef l
    oorwi t
    hdadseat edon
    thefl
    oorwi thhishe' dburiedi nhishands, he
    l
    ookedupt oushewascr yi
    nghest oodup
    andhuggedusandf orthefirstt i
    meaf t
    er
    therapeIcr i
    ed,dadandKhay aconsol edme
    thendadl eftsay i
    nghewi l
    lmakehi m
    pay,t
    hatdayIsl eptwi thoutfear .NextdayI
    wokeupt ookashowerandj oinedev eryone
    andatebr eakfastwi thoutmyt hought s
    runni
    ngwi ldthenmom anddadl eftfor
    workandKhay aleftforschool It
    henwent
    tomyr oom andf ocusedonmybookssi nce
    Ihadbeennegl ectingthem whensuddenl yI
    fel
    tagunbei nghel donmyheadi twashi m
    Iknewi twithoutev enlookinghesai dI
    shoul dhav eli
    stenedwhenhet oldmenot
    totel l anyone, hethensai dhe'l
    lmakeme
    payt henki l
    lme* sighsandsni ffatt hesame
    ti
    me*her apedmeagai n*pauses, Ihughi m
    witht earscomi ngoutasawat erfall
    *and
    thatt imeIcoul dnotscr eam orpl eadhi mto
    stopIj ustl etmyt ear sflowandIwas
    actual l
    ygl adt hathewasgoi ngtoki llme
    aftert hatbutt hatdidn'thappencausedad
    wal kedi nwhi lehisbr otherwasbusywi t
    h
    him hegothi m offmeandbeatt heshi tout
    ofhi mt henhedr aggedhi m outwhi leIlai
    d
    therewi shi ngIcoul ddie.* si
    ghs* Icont i
    nued
    l
    ocki ngmy selfupandt hehat eIhadf ormy
    uncl esl owl yturnedi ntoangerIcan' t
    expl ain,whenev erIthoughtofwhat
    happenedIwoul dendupbr eaking
    somet hing,thenthisot hernightwhenKhay a
    wasout sidemybedr oom door" talking"to
    measusual Iheardhim say inguncl egot
    arrest edIf eltmyangerr isinguphe
    deser v eddeat h,Ifel
    tmybl oodboi l
    ingI
    startedf eelingst rongIhear dmycl othes
    tearingupIl ookedatmyar msandt hey
    wer er ed,ever y
    thinginmyr oom wasget ting
    smal l
    erandIwasseei ngr edandmygums
    wer ehur ti
    ng,Ilookedatt hemi r
    rormyey es
    wer ey el
    lowi ncol ourmyt eet hlongast he
    ti
    ger 'shencet hathowIgott henameRed
    Tigergi v
    enbydadany wayt heangerwas
    buildingupt hingswer ebr eaking, dadki cked
    downt hedoorandbot hhi m andKhay a
    l
    ookedatmewi thfri
    ght,
    outofnowher e
    Khay ascr eamedandf ai
    nt edhehi thishead
    hardmyangersl owlywentdownseei ngmy
    brotherhur tIwentbackt omynor mal sel f
    withdadst il
    lfrozenIqui cklywentt oKhay a
    feelingweak.Thenextdaydadt ookmet o
    somet r
    adit
    ionali
    stsayi
    ngwhathappened
    tomewasn' tnormal,t
    hetradit
    ional
    i
    stsaid
    someonepl acedacurseonmeandt hatis
    all
    hecouldsayandt hethingthathappened
    tomewhenIwasangr yst
    ill
    happenswhen
    Igetangry
    .
    Igetawayf
    rom hi
    schestl
    ooki
    ngupt
    ohi
    s
    redtear
    yey
    es.
    Me:
    *wipi
    ngmyt ear
    s*y
    ou'
    reRedt
    iger
    ??
    Wai
    tyoutransf
    orm?
    Him:*
    wipeshi
    st ear
    s*aft
    erev
    ery
    thi
    ngI
    '
    ve
    sai
    disthatal
    lyouheard?
    Me:Iknoweveryt
    hingyouj
    usttol
    dme
    exceptthet
    ransf
    ormingpar
    t.
    Hi
    m:*
    shockedandconf
    used*
    youknow?
    How?
    Me:
    Isawev
    ery
    thi
    ngt
    hatdayIwascr
    ying
    af
    terhuggi
    ngy
    ou.
    Hi
    m:t
    henwhyl
    etmet
    ell
    you?
    Me:i
    t'
    spartofy
    ourheal
    i
    ngpr
    ocess,
    you
    hav
    en'tf
    ull
    yhealed.
    Hi
    m:*si
    ghs*
    doyoust
    il
    ll
    ookatmet
    hesame?
    ImeanIwasr.
    .
    Me:babeIknewaboutthis4monthsago
    didyounoti
    ceanydi
    fferentwayIl
    ookat
    you?
    Hi
    m:no.
    Me:exact
    ly,
    youbeingrapeddoesn'
    tchange
    any
    thingIsti
    ll
    lov
    ey ouifnotev
    enmor e.
    Hi
    m:*
    shedsat
    ear
    *butI
    '
    m br
    oken.
    Me:brokenwher
    eexact
    ly?CausewhenI
    seeyouIseethesameguyIfell
    inl
    ove
    wit
    h,withj
    ustal
    ookinhi
    seyes.
    Iwi
    pehi
    stear
    sandki
    ssbot
    hhi
    sey
    es.
    Me:Ncami oncetol
    dmet hatevery
    thi
    ngthat
    happensinli
    fehappensforareason,as
    hurt
    fulasiti
    sacceptitcausei
    tisint
    he
    past,
    for
    giv
    ey ouruncl
    eandmov eon.
    Him:*
    frowns*
    Icandoeveryt
    hingyou'
    vej
    ust
    sai
    dbesidesfor
    giv
    inghi
    m,Iwill
    never
    for
    giv
    ehim.
    Ipl
    antababyki
    ssonhi
    sli
    ps.
    Me:
    Ihear
    tyouKhabazel
    a.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Ihear
    tyout
    ooMr
    sme
    Me:y
    ouwil
    lfor
    givey
    ouruncl
    e,
    itmaynotbe
    nowbuty
    ouwi l
    l.
    .
    .
    .
    ~inser
    t61~
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    MJ:
    Iwi
    l
    lnotf
    orgi
    vehi
    m babe.
    Me:t
    heny ou'
    l
    lnev
    erheal
    ,causeyouwil
    lnot
    bedoingsoforhi
    m buty
    ou'l
    lbedoingi
    tfor
    your
    self
    .
    Hi
    m:Iwi
    l
    lnotf
    ..
    Me:
    okokIgety
    ou,
    sowher
    eishe?
    Hi
    m:st
    il
    li
    npr
    ison.
    Me:
    ohok,whodoyout
    hinkpl
    acedacur
    se
    ony
    ou?andwhy?
    Hi
    m:It
    otal
    l
    yhav
    enoi
    dea.
    Me:
    thenIguesst
    hat
    'smyt
    ask.
    Hi
    m:y
    ourwhatnow?
    Me:
    task.
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    babe.
    Me:don'
    twor
    ryl
    oveIwil
    lconductt
    hist
    ask
    whenIhavegi
    venbi
    rt
    h.
    Hi
    m:okbutwon'
    tanyhar
    m comet
    oyou?
    Li
    keevenal
    it
    tl
    eharm.
    Me:
    Idon'
    tthi
    nkso.
    Hi
    m:y
    ouknowwhat
    ?Let
    'sdr
    opt
    his.
    Me:*gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*okandthanky
    ouforopeni
    ng
    uptome,fort
    rust
    ingmewithwhatyouj
    ust
    tol
    dme.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    andt
    hanky
    ouf
    orl
    i
    steni
    ng.


    thef
    oll
    owi
    ngday

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    AtKhay
    a'shouse,
    i
    nhi
    sof
    fi
    ce.

    Khay
    a:*
    chokesonhi
    sdr
    ink*
    thef
    uck!
    MJwal
    ksi
    n.
    MJ:
    andnow?
    Khay
    a:someonehackedi
    ntooursy
    stem.
    MJ:
    *rai
    seshi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    and?
    Khaya:
    andt
    hatsomeoneknowsR.
    Tki
    l
    led
    Nsika.
    MJ:
    *shocked*
    butwhowoul
    dbei
    nter
    est
    ed
    i
    nNsika'
    sdeath?
    Khaya:
    probabl
    ythaty
    ell
    owboneguynamed
    sanel
    ecausetheywerewor
    kingt
    ogether
    .
    MJ:
    andwher
    eisal
    loft
    hisgonnagethi
    m?
    Khaya:Idon'
    tknowandI '
    m notr eal
    l
    y
    worri
    edabouthimI '
    mj ustpissedoffcause
    Iknowt hatt
    hepersonwhohackedi ntoour
    syst
    em isinourcrew,someonewhoknows
    oursystem ver
    ywell.
    ..
    Ishouldknowt hat
    causeI'mtheonewhoset upoursystem.
    MJ:
    sowehav
    easni
    tch.
    ..
    Khaya:
    andI
    '
    llf
    indoutwho,
    sowhatabout
    sanel
    e?
    MJ:
    whatabouthi
    m?
    Khay
    a:ar
    eyougoi
    ngt
    ohandl
    ehi
    m?
    MJ:*
    chuckl
    es*
    hedidn'
    texact
    lydo
    somethi
    ngtome.
    Khay
    a:tr
    ueplustheinf
    ormati
    onhehas
    won'
    tgethim anywher
    e,he'
    ll
    neverf
    indout
    whoR.T..
    .i
    smanyhav etr
    iedbutf
    ail
    ed.
    MJ:
    andi
    wonderwhypeopl
    efearsomeone
    t
    heydonotknow.
    Khay
    a:*chuckl
    es*
    evenourcr
    ewwor
    ksf
    or
    someonetheydonotknow.
    MJ:maybet
    hesni
    tcht
    houghtR.
    Tdoesn'
    t
    exi
    standdi
    dwhathedi
    d.
    Khay
    a:*
    standsup*t
    here'
    sonl
    yonewayt
    o
    fi
    ndout
    ,ar
    ey oucoming?
    MJ:nahI'
    m cool
    ,
    Iact
    ual
    lycameher
    etor
    est
    I
    'l
    lgohomewhenLenhlehascameback
    f
    rom hermeetupwit
    htheguys.
    Khay
    a:whatdoy
    oumeanr
    est
    ?
    MJ:mybodyisrestl
    ess,Isor
    takindasl
    ept
    onthecouchlastni
    ghtanditisnotas
    comfyasIthought.
    Khay
    a:whydi
    dyousl
    eepont hecouch?I
    meanyouhaveabedthathasawifeoni
    t.
    MJ:
    wel
    lnotwhent
    hatwi
    fei
    sangr
    y.
    Khay
    a:*
    chuckl
    es*
    whatdi
    dyoudo?
    MJ:Imighthaveforgott
    entobuyheronion
    ri
    ngsandtoseet hatshe'sadevi
    lhersel
    f
    shewokeupi nthemi ddl
    eofthenight
    wanti
    ngheronionr i
    ngs.
    Khaya:
    *laughs*wrongmov ebro,howmany
    ti
    mesmustIt el
    lyou.
    .donotforgettobuy
    herdai
    lycravi
    ng.
    MJ:youactual
    l
    yf or
    gottot
    ellmet
    hepartof
    buy
    ingthatdail
    ycravi
    ng5timesaday
    .
    Khay
    a:andwher
    e'st
    hef
    uni
    nthat
    ?*l
    aughs*
    MJ:
    mcm.
    ~
    Tom:
    dudegoi
    nandt
    alkt
    oheral
    ready
    .
    Chr
    is:
    andsaywhat
    ?
    Tom:Idon'
    tknow,
    howam Isupposet
    o
    know?
    Chr
    is:
    i
    twouldhav
    ebeenwaybet
    teri
    fZugo
    washere.
    Tom:buthe'
    snot,
    nowgotal
    ktoherandy
    ou
    hav
    eexactlyanhourt
    odosocausewe
    hav
    et omeetupwithMbal
    ii
    nanhour.
    Chr
    is:
    butwhati
    fsher
    eject
    sme?
    Tom:
    you'
    l
    lfi
    ndsomeoneel
    se.
    Chr
    is:
    Iwishf
    ort
    hedaywhenyou'
    l
    lfal
    li
    n
    l
    ovetocomesoonyouknow.
    .
    Tom:nowt
    hat
    'sawi
    sht
    hatwi
    l
    lnev
    ercome
    tr
    ue.
    Chr
    is:
    *rol
    l
    shi
    sey
    es*
    her
    egoesnot
    hing.
    Tom:
    goodl
    uck
    Chr
    is:
    *chuckl
    es*
    what
    ever
    .
    Chri
    swalksinatmugandbeans,
    andwal
    ks
    towher
    eshe'sseat
    edatwhil
    esayi
    nga
    shor
    tpr
    ay eri
    nsi
    de,
    heget
    stoherzoni
    ngout
    .
    Chr
    is:
    hey
    .
    Shecomesbacktohersensesandface
    thi
    shandsomeguyi
    nfrontofher.
    Her
    :*f
    akesasmi
    l
    e*hi
    .
    Chr
    is:
    i
    sthi
    sseatt
    aken?
    Her
    :nobutI
    ..
    Chr
    is:
    thanks.
    Hesayst
    hatseat
    ingdownnotev
    enaski
    ng
    i
    fhecoul
    djoi
    nher.
    Chr
    is:
    sohowar
    eyout
    oday
    ?
    Her
    :uhm I
    '
    m good.
    Chri
    s:oht
    henamei
    sChr
    ist
    opherChr
    isf
    or
    shor
    t.
    Her
    :uhm okni
    cet
    omeety
    oust
    alker
    .
    Chr
    is:
    *runsoutofwor
    ds*
    IuhhI
    ..
    Her:
    Iknowthatyou'
    vebeenstal
    kingmeMr
    andsincet
    odayyoudecidedtotalkt
    ome
    pl
    easedotellmewhyy ou'
    vebeenstalki
    ng
    me.
    Chr
    is:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    youdonot
    iceme.
    Her
    :uh?
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    youar
    eint
    imi
    dat
    ingdoy
    ouknowt
    hat
    ?
    Her
    :me?
    ?
    Chri
    s:y
    eahandt
    hat
    'swhyI
    '
    vebeenst
    alki
    ng
    you.
    Her
    :causeI
    '
    mint
    imi
    dat
    ing?
    Chri
    s:yeahIhavebeenwant
    ingtotal
    kto
    youforav er
    ylongti
    mebutIcouldn'
    tbr
    ing
    myselftodoso.
    Her
    :wow.
    Chri
    s:andI
    'vebeenwant
    ingt
    otel
    lyout
    hat
    youlookbeauti
    ful
    .
    Shebl
    ushesandl
    ooksdown
    Her:
    thanks,
    nowthatyouar
    espeaki
    ngwit
    h
    mewi l
    lyoustopstal
    ki
    ngmecauseit'
    s
    cr
    eepy.
    Chr
    ist
    akest
    hisasanoppor
    tuni
    ty.
    Chr
    is:
    onl
    yofyougiv
    emey our
    number*
    rai
    seshi
    seyebr
    ow*
    Shejustget
    sbl
    ownawaybyt
    hatl
    i
    ttl
    e
    gest
    ure.
    Her
    :andi
    fIdon'
    t
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    thenIguessI
    '
    llkeepst
    alki
    ngy
    ou.
    Her:
    don'
    tyouf
    indi
    tcreepyt
    ost
    alk
    someoneyoudon'
    tev
    enknow?
    Chr
    is:
    Iknowy
    ou.
    Her
    :r
    eal
    l
    y?What
    'smyname?
    Chr
    is:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    Isabel
    l
    a,butIcal
    lyouBel
    l
    a.
    Bel
    l
    a:*
    shocked*
    wow.
    Chri
    s:*shakeshishead*wai
    tIthi
    nkmymi nd
    hasnotbeenf uncti
    oningsi
    nceIsat
    down,didyousayy ouknowthatI'
    vebeen
    stal
    ki
    ngy ou?
    Bel
    l
    a:*
    conf
    used*
    yeah.
    Chr
    is:
    andyouar
    enotf
    reaki
    ngoutand
    pi
    ssedatme?
    Bel
    la:
    *l
    ooksatherwri
    stwat
    ch*
    Ishoul
    dget
    goi
    ngnow*standsup*
    Chri
    s:wai
    t,
    whyar
    eyouav
    oidi
    ngwhatIj
    ust
    asked?
    Bel
    l
    a:I
    '
    m notav
    oidi
    ngany
    thi
    ng,
    I
    'mj
    ust
    pr
    otect
    ingy
    ou.
    Shewal
    ksawayl
    eav
    ingChr
    isconf
    usedas
    ever
    .
    Tom:Idonotl
    i
    key
    ourf
    ace,
    didshet
    urny
    ou
    down?
    Chr
    is:
    Idi
    dn'
    tgett
    hechancet
    oaskherout
    .
    Tom:soshet
    urnedyoudownbef
    orey
    ou
    coul
    daskherout?Damn.
    Chr
    is:
    *rol
    l
    shi
    sey
    es*nomar
    n
    Tom:
    thenwhydoy
    oul
    ookl
    i
    keal
    ostpuppy
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    sheknowsI
    '
    vebeenst
    alki
    ngher
    .
    Tom:ok,
    basedontheromant
    icmoviesy
    ou
    mademewat chshewassupposetosplash
    hercof
    feeonyourfaceandl
    ashoutonyou.
    Chr
    is:
    exact
    lydude.
    Tom:
    wai
    tI'
    mri
    ght
    ?
    Chr
    is:nott
    hepoint
    ,shedi
    dn'
    tfreakoutshe
    wascalm andwhenIaskedherwhyshe
    di
    dn'tfr
    eakoutshesaidshehadtogo.
    Tom:
    shewasav
    oidi
    ngy
    ourquest
    ion?
    Chr
    is:
    that'
    swhatIthoughtbutshesai
    dshe
    i
    snotav oi
    dingany
    thingshe'
    sjust
    pr
    otecti
    ngme.
    Tom:
    Ihav
    enev
    erbeensoconf
    usedi
    nmy
    l
    if
    e.
    Chr
    is:
    meandyoubot
    h,andIcan'
    tst
    ayi
    nthe
    dar
    kli
    ket
    his.
    Hesayst
    hattaki
    ngouthi
    sphoneand
    maki
    ngacall
    //
    Chr
    is:
    Khay
    ahowzi
    t
    Khay
    a:goodbr
    ah
    Chr
    is:
    l
    ookIneedaf
    avour
    .
    Khaya:asl
    ongasyou'l
    lbuymet
    hef
    inest
    wineintownthenshoot.
    Chris:*chuckl
    es*Ineedyoutofi
    ndout
    everythingther
    ei stoknowaboutI
    sabel
    l
    a
    Bi
    y ela.
    Khay
    a:y
    ourgi
    rl
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    shei
    sn'
    tex
    act
    lymygi
    rl
    .
    Khaya:*
    chuckles*t
    hat'
    swhatmybr ot
    her
    saidaboutMbal i
    whenhewant ed
    every
    thingtoknowaboutherbutlook
    wheretheyarenowbutsur eI'
    l
    lbri
    ngthe
    i
    nfotonightI'
    m sti
    ll
    busyatthemoment.
    Chr
    is:
    thanks/
    /
    Tom:nowt
    hati
    sdone,
    Mbal
    ii
    sout
    sidel
    et'
    s
    go.
    Theyst
    andupandwalkoutandmeetup
    wit
    hMbalenhl
    e,t
    heygr
    eetandhugfi
    rst
    bef
    orewal
    ki
    ngar
    oundt
    hemal
    l
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :sodi
    dyouf
    inal
    l
    yaskBel
    l
    aout
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    noI
    ..
    wai
    thowdi
    dyouk.
    ..
    .
    Tom:
    wuuhbabyshopl
    et'
    sgoi
    nsi
    de.
    Chr
    is:
    Tom!
    Tom wal
    ksi
    ntheshopf
    astMbal
    enhl
    eends
    upl
    aughi
    ng.
    Chr
    is:
    hecan'
    tkeephi
    smout
    hshutt
    hisone.
    Theyal
    sowal
    kinj
    oini
    ngTom.
    Tom:
    whatdoy
    out
    hinkaboutt
    his?
    Mbal
    i
    :wowi
    t'
    sador
    abl
    e*beami
    ng*
    Tom:
    thenwear
    ebuy
    ingi
    t.
    Mbali
    :t
    hisi
    sforaboychil
    dTom andIdo
    notknowwhetherI
    '
    llgi
    vebir
    tht
    oaboyora
    gi
    rl
    .
    Tom:okwe'
    l
    ltakethi
    soneandtake
    somethi
    ngf
    rom thegi
    rlchi
    l
    dsecti
    on.
    Mbal
    i
    :Orwecoul
    dbuysomet
    hingbl
    ack.
    Chr
    is:
    youandbl
    ack,
    don'tdragour
    ni
    ece/
    nephewtoyouruglycolour
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :bl
    acki
    sabeaut
    if
    ulcol
    our
    .
    Tom:
    thati
    swhaty
    oual
    way
    ss.
    ..
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :ev
    ery
    onef
    reeze!
    !*
    hol
    dshert
    ummy
    *
    Tom andChri
    sf r
    eezeinst
    antlywhi
    l
    eot
    her
    s
    tur
    ntolookatthethr
    eeoft hem.
    Chr
    is:
    *st
    il
    lst
    andi
    ngst
    il
    l*
    what
    'st
    hemat
    ter
    ?
    Mbal
    i
    :thebabyi
    smov
    ing.
    Chr
    is:
    *si
    ghsi
    nrel
    i
    ef*
    don'
    tscar
    eusl
    i
    ket
    hat
    .
    Tom:*panicki
    ng*
    mustwet
    akey
    out
    othe
    hospi
    tal?
    Theyl
    ookathi
    m wi
    thconf
    usi
    on.
    Tom:
    ormustIcal
    lMJ?
    Chr
    is:
    *hol
    dsinhi
    slaught
    er*
    youdi
    dhearher
    say
    ingthebabyi
    smov i
    ngri
    ght
    ?
    Tom:
    whyi
    sthebabymov
    ing?
    Ev
    ery
    onel
    aughsandgoesbackt
    oshoppi
    ng.
    Chr
    is:
    Ifeel
    sorr
    yfort
    heladywhowi
    l
    lfal
    l
    pr
    egnantwithy
    ourchi
    ld.
    Mbali
    :*
    giggli
    ng*
    let
    'sgobuymel
    unchsoI
    canexplai
    ntoyou.

    ~i
    nser
    t62~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Hangoutwi
    ththeguy
    swasawesomeas
    usual
    ,
    fil
    l
    edwit
    hcrazi
    nessandl
    aught
    er
    Zugoissuremi ssi
    ngoutbutheyhe' sa
    fat
    hernowandweal somi ssAthibut
    atl
    eastwenowcansi tdownandl augh
    whenwet alkaboutthememor i
    esweall
    sharedi
    nsteadofsheddingt ear
    s.

    MJi ssti
    l
    lnotback?Hebett
    ercomeback
    withmyonionringscauset
    heseonewi l
    lbe
    fi
    nishedbytheti
    mehecomesbackbutf or
    nowIwantt osl
    eepcauseI'
    m sosleepyand
    ti
    red.
    Me: *br
    ushingmytummy*comeonbaby
    stopkicki
    ngsomucht hi
    sisnoty
    our
    father'
    splaygr
    ound.
    Eyhe/sheiski
    cki
    ngli
    kenobody'
    sbusiness,
    Mjthejaguarl
    aysonthecouchfaci
    ngthe
    bedandlaydownandi mmediat
    elydozeoff
    .
    "Pl
    easehelpme"shesnif
    fs,
    Ican'texact
    ly
    seeherfacecauseherbackisfacingme.
    "Helpyouwi
    thwhat?Whoareyou"t
    his
    placeseemscr
    eepyanddar
    k,ent
    lekwher
    e
    am I?
    "
    He'
    sgoingtokil
    lme,
    *sni
    ff
    s*pleasehelp
    me"
    shesaysthatwi
    thapainedvoice.
    Isl
    owlywal
    ktowardsher
    ,whyam Inot
    weari
    nganyshoes.
    "
    Pleaset
    urnar
    ound,
    who'
    sgoi
    ngt
    oki
    l
    lyou?
    "
    Sheslowlyt
    urns,
    ohmylov
    inggod.
    ..
    she'
    s
    beat
    enupherf acei
    sswol
    lenupwit
    hblood
    al
    loverit
    .
    "
    Ohmywhathappenedt
    oyou?
    "
    "
    Pleasehel
    pme"
    shesay
    s.

    "
    Whoar
    eyou?HowdoIf
    indy
    ou?
    "

    "Pl
    easehel
    pme"
    shesay
    sthatwal
    ki
    ng
    away.
    "
    Wait
    !Atl
    easttel
    lmey ourname!
    "Ishout
    r
    unni
    ngaf
    terherbutIstar
    tseei
    ngsome
    l
    i
    ght.

    "
    Babe"
    Uh?.
    ..
    Ifeel
    someonel
    ight
    lyshaki
    ngme,
    I
    sl
    owlyopenmyeyesandfindbot
    hmyMjs'
    st
    ari
    ngatme.
    Me:
    *rubbi
    ngmyey
    es*
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Hi
    m:ar
    en'
    tyouhungr
    y?
    Youhav
    egotoneki
    ddi
    ngme.
    Me:i
    sthatwhyy
    ouwokemeup?
    *gi
    vi
    nghi
    m
    adeadstar
    e*
    Him:don'tgivemethatlook,
    youhav
    etoeat
    soyouwi llnotwakemeupi nthemiddl
    eof
    thenightsayingyou'
    rehungry.
    Me:*rol
    l
    ingmyey es*Iwasgonnawakeup
    around19:30or20:00sother
    ewasnoneed
    towakemeup.
    Him:
    uh?di
    dyouseet
    het
    ime?
    wai
    twhendi
    d
    yousl
    eep?
    Me:
    around16:
    15why
    ?
    Hi
    sey
    espop.
    Hi
    m:babet
    het
    imei
    snow22:
    50.
    Me:
    hahay
    eahr
    ight
    .
    Igr
    abmyphoneandt
    urni
    tonwoahhe'
    s
    ri
    ght,
    somanymissedcal
    l
    smostl
    yfrom
    Z'
    yandaandTashaandanumberIdonot
    know.
    Me:Ican'
    tbel
    i
    eveI
    'v
    ebeensleepingfor
    suchalongti
    meadIcan'
    tbeli
    eveIdidn'
    t
    hearmyphoneri
    ngImeanthev olumeison
    maximum.
    Hi
    m:*
    lookswor
    ri
    ed*
    shoul
    dIbewor
    ri
    ed?
    Me:noit
    'spr
    obabl
    ybecauseIwas
    t
    ir
    ed,don'
    tworr
    y.
    I
    tisdef
    ini
    tel
    ynotbecauseIwast
    ir
    edbutI
    donotwanttoworr
    yhim.
    Hi
    m:uhm okayI
    fyousayso,
    l
    etmegowar
    m
    upyourf
    ood*st
    andsup*
    Hecooked?
    ???
    Me:
    noI
    '
    m good.
    Hel
    ooksatmeshocked.
    Hi
    m:ser
    iousl
    y?
    Me:yeahIthi
    nkIat
    etomuchwi
    tht
    heguy
    s
    I
    'm sti
    l
    lful
    l
    .
    Him:
    thenIguessIshoul
    dn'
    thav
    ewoken
    youup.
    Hej
    oinsmei
    nbed.
    Hi
    m:soin3day
    stocomei
    t'
    syourbi
    rt
    hdayI
    wasth.
    ..
    ..
    YeahI '
    m notreall
    yf ocusedonhi
    m, I
    '
    m
    thinkingaboutt hegi r
    lwhowasinmy
    dream Imeanwhoi sshe?WheredoIf i
    nd
    her ?Herbeingonmydr eam r
    eal
    lymeans
    sheneedshel pandIwonderwhoi tisthat
    i
    sgoi ngtokillherahhht hi
    sis
    frustrati
    ng..
    .onlyifIknowhernameand
    sur namet henI'l
    lknowwher etostartf
    rom
    a.
    .
    MJsnapshi
    sfinger
    sinf
    rontofmyf
    ace
    andIcomebacktomysenses.
    Hi
    m:wher
    eyouat
    ?
    Me:
    uhm I
    '
    m sor
    ryI
    '
    mjustt
    hinki
    ng.
    Him:meani
    ngy
    oudi
    dn'
    thearawor
    dIj
    ust
    sai
    d.
    Me:
    may
    be.
    Him:*
    sighs*
    whati
    sitt
    haty
    ou'
    ret
    hinki
    ng
    about
    ?
    I
    fItel
    lhi
    m aboutmydream andthi
    sgi
    rl
    whoneedsmyhelphewon'tall
    owitso
    whatshoul
    dIsaytohi
    m?
    Me:
    uhm i
    t'
    snoti
    mpor
    tant
    .
    Hi
    m:*
    rai
    seshi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    real
    l
    y?
    Me:
    I'
    m ser
    ious.
    Him:
    ifwhat
    everyouar
    ethinki
    ngleadst
    o
    youbei
    nghurtev
    enalit
    tl
    escratchncncnc
    wearegonnahaveaprobl
    em.
    Iswal
    l
    owhar dandpr
    etendt
    obesl
    eepyasI
    l
    ayonhischest
    .
    Hi
    m:y
    oudor
    eal
    i
    zet
    hatI
    '
    m ser
    iousr
    ight
    ?
    Me:
    yes,
    goodni
    ghtI
    '
    m sl
    eepyIl
    ovey
    ou.
    Him:
    *chuckl
    es*what
    everiti
    syouwil
    ltell
    mebutitcoolf
    ornowy oumaysleepIlove
    yout
    wo.
    Heturnsoutt heli
    ghtsandafteraf ew
    minutesIhearhisli
    ghtsnores,Islowly
    mov efr
    om hischestandlayonmysi de
    f
    acingupwhi lebrushi
    ngmyt ummy .
    ..
    Ikeep
    t
    ossingandt urni
    ngthisgi
    rlisstucki nmy
    mindIcan'tsleep.
    ..
    Iconti
    nuewi ththe
    t
    ossingandt urni
    ngahhwai t.
    .greatnowI '
    m
    hungryletmenotdi sturbMJt onightI'l
    lgo
    warm upt hef oodhecooked, Iquietl
    y
    removet hecov erbutqui ckl
    ycl oseem
    yessesit'
    ssocol dinfactit'
    sf r
    eezingbut
    howwi l
    l Igettot hekitchencauseI '
    mr eal
    ly
    hungryandi fIwakeMJuphemi ghtwant
    met otellhim aboutwhatIwast hinking
    aboutandIcan' tthi
    nkofanyl i
    e.Isighand
    l
    aybackonmypi ll
    owt hentryt osleepbut
    thehungeri sbusysay ing" I
    '
    m her eandI
    ain'
    tgoingnowher e"Isitbackupandl ook
    atMJwhoi ssl eepingsopeacef ul,
    myt ears
    areevent hreateningtocomeout .
    Me:
    babe.
    ..
    .*
    thatcameoutasawhi
    sper
    *
    Me:
    *cl
    ear
    ingmyt
    hroat
    *babe.
    Il
    i
    ght
    lyshakehi
    m.
    Hi
    m:mmmh
    Me:
    MJ!
    !*
    tear
    sfal
    ldownmycheeks*
    Hequi
    ckl
    yseat
    sup.
    Hi
    m:whatwhat
    ?Ar
    eyouok?
    Hel
    ooksatme.
    Hi
    m:babewhat
    'swr
    ong?Whyar
    eyoucr
    ying?
    Me:
    *sni
    ff
    *I'
    m uhI
    '
    m hungr
    y.
    Hi
    m:i
    sthatwhyy
    ou'
    recr
    ying?
    Heseemsli
    kehe'
    sconf
    used.
    ..
    Isl
    owl
    ynod
    wi
    pingof
    fmytear
    s.
    Him:ayayayaythi
    spr
    egnancyi
    sgoi
    ngt
    o
    bethedeathofme.
    Igi
    vehi
    m adeadst
    are.
    Hi
    m:ImeanI
    '
    llber
    ightback.
    Heget
    soutofbedandwal
    ksoutl
    eav
    ing
    mesmil
    ing.
    °
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    .°

    "
    Imi
    ssmyol
    dfr
    iends
    Causet
    heyknowwhenIneedt
    hem t
    he
    most
    Imadesomenewf r
    iendsandt
    heycool
    fr
    iends,
    butt
    heydon'
    tknow
    WhatIdo
    WhatIgot
    WhoIam andwhoI
    '
    m not
    Imi
    ssmyol
    dfr
    iends,
    Imi
    ssmyol
    dfr
    iends.

    Imi
    sst
    hegoodt
    imeswehad
    NowIdon'
    tknow
    Whosegotmyback
    Somebodyt
    oldmet
    oli
    ghtupev
    eryr
    oom
    Maket
    hem r
    emembery
    ou
    ButnobodyknowswhatI
    '
    m goi
    ngt
    hrough
    Not
    heynev
    erdo"

    "
    Heynow,
    heynow
    Iknowev
    ery
    bodychanges
    Heynow,
    heynow
    Ij
    ustwantf
    ami
    l
    iarf
    aces
    Heynow,
    heynow
    Gr
    owi
    ngupcanbeamazi
    ng
    Buti
    tcanei
    therbr
    eaky
    ourhear
    t
    Imi
    ssmyol
    dfr
    iendswhenI
    ..
    "
    "
    Whati
    sthat
    ?"
    Iqui
    ckl
    yhi
    det
    hephot
    o.
    Lewi
    s:Isawthatandyouknowt
    hati
    tcan
    gety
    oui nt
    roubleri
    ght
    ?
    Me:
    soar
    eyougoi
    ngt
    otel
    lonme?
    Him:oft
    hatpi
    cturei
    sfoundandsomehowi t
    comesoutthatIknewofitanddi
    dn'tsay
    anyt
    hingdoyouknowwhatwi l
    lhappen.
    Me:*r
    oll
    i
    ngmyeyes*
    you'
    redr
    amat
    icf
    ora
    dudeyouknowt
    hat?
    Hi
    m:bur
    nthatpi
    ctur
    ebr
    ah.
    Me:
    what
    ??No!
    !
    Hi
    m:y
    oudoknowwhati
    satst
    akeher
    eri
    ght
    .
    Me:youknowwhat
    ?Justwal
    koutand
    pr
    etendyounev
    ersawthi
    s.
    Hi
    m:what
    'ssohar
    dwi
    thbur
    ningapi
    ctur
    e?
    Me:
    you'
    l
    lnev
    erunder
    stand.
    Hi
    m:okt
    henI
    '
    m outofher
    e.
    Het
    urnst
    owal
    kout
    .
    Hi
    m:ohbyt
    hewayyouhav
    eagr
    eatv
    oice
    f
    oradudey
    ouknow.
    Hewal
    ksout
    .
    Ihatethispl ace,Imi ssmysi stersobadi ti
    s
    notevenf unany more,Imi ssmom anddad, I
    missmyf riendsmycr azyf r
    iends. ..
    ifonlyI
    couldat l
    eastcommuni catewi ththem.The
    peopleint hispl acear ebor i
    ngt heydonot
    knowhowt ochi llandgoofar oundt heonl y
    thi
    ngtheyknowi stof oll
    owt her ules,even
    famil
    yandf r
    iendspi cturesar enotal lowed
    causet heymi ghtbea" distr
    act i
    on"boohoo
    theyhav enoi deawhatI '
    vebeent hrough
    eversinceIgother e..
    ..
    mysi sterhasbeen
    drainingmey esseswhichleadstome
    beingdi st
    ract
    edmostoft hetimeandthe
    pi
    ct uresmakemef ocustheydon'
    tgetme
    di
    st ract
    ed.

    "Ever
    yoneisneededatthehal
    l,
    Irepeat
    Every
    oneisneededatthehall
    ,
    bet herei
    n3
    minutes"

    Thisplaceismor eli
    keaboar dingschool
    forpri
    ncesbutmor estr
    icter
    ,Imakemyway
    tothehal l
    andf i
    ndmost lypri
    ncesalready
    there.
    ..
    .youknowwhat 'sfunny?It
    'sthefact
    thatI'
    m surroundedbysomanypeopl ebut
    yetIfeelsolonely,
    Iusedt ot
    hinkthatthe
    worstthinginlif
    ewast oendupal lalone.
    I
    t's
    not.Thewor
    stt
    hingi
    nlif
    eisendingupwi
    th
    peoplewhomakeyoufeelal
    lal
    one.
    Andtheot
    herwor
    stt
    hingi
    s,t
    her
    e's4y
    ear
    s
    l
    eft
    .
    .
    .
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t63~

    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..

    Senzo:
    *fumi
    ng*Isawyout
    alki
    ngt
    ohi
    m,why
    wereyoutal
    ki
    ngt ohi
    m?
    Me:
    arey
    ouf
    oll
    owi
    ngme?
    Him:
    THATISNOTTHEPOI
    NT!
    !whywer
    e
    yout
    alki
    ngt
    othatguy
    ?
    Me:
    didy
    ouseemest
    andingupgoi
    ngt
    ohi
    s
    t
    abl
    eortohi
    m?Nohe'
    stheonewhocame
    t
    ome.
    Hi
    m:don'
    tyoudaret
    alkt
    omel
    i
    ke
    t
    hat.
    *poi
    ntsatme*
    Me:SenzoI'
    mtir
    edofthis,
    youknowthatI
    nev
    erlovedyousowhycan' ty
    oujustl
    etme
    goandf i
    ndsomeoneelsehuh?
    Senz
    o:y
    ou'
    l
    llear
    ntol
    oveme.
    Me:thatiswhaty ousaid6y earsagoandall
    I
    'm askingisforyout osetmef r
    ee,
    I
    'mti
    red
    ofbeingy ourpunchingbag,yourstr
    ess
    rel
    easer,y
    oursexsl avejustpleasel
    etme
    go.
    Senzo:andIhavetoldy
    ousomanyt i
    mes
    thatyouarenotgoingtoleavemeorel
    se
    yourpreci
    oussist
    erwilldi
    ejustl
    i
    keyour
    par
    ent
    s.
    Il
    ookathi
    m wi
    thmyey
    esal
    lout
    .
    Me:*
    tearsf
    all
    down*
    itwasy
    ou,
    wasn'
    ti
    t?
    Youkil
    ledmypar
    ent
    s.
    Him:
    youdidtr
    ytor
    unawaysoIhadt
    o
    puni
    shyouinsomeway
    *smir
    ks*
    Me:Ihaveagunwoundonmyarm,wasn't
    thatenough?You'
    reamonst
    ery
    oupieceof
    shit
    .
    Idi
    dn'
    tseei
    titcomi
    ngIonl
    yfeel
    itwheni
    t
    l
    andsonmycheek.
    Him:maybeIhavebeenwayt
    oniceto
    you,
    don'
    tyouevertal
    ktomeli
    kethaty
    ou
    hearme?
    Ikeepcr
    yinghol
    dingmycheek.
    Hi
    m:ISAI
    DDOYOUHEARME!
    ?
    Iqui
    ckl
    ynod.
    Him:Iseethi
    sguygav eyouhi
    sball
    stotal
    k
    tomel i
    kethat,
    wellt
    akeem backbef
    oreo
    giv
    ey ouanothergunwound.
    IjustkeepnoddingcauseIcan'taf
    for
    dto
    bebeat enupsinceIhavetogot owork
    tomor r
    owbutdi dhereal
    lyhavetokil
    lmy
    parentsjustbecauseIr
    anaway ?
    Him:
    ohandonemor et
    hing,
    Ithi
    nki
    t'
    sti
    me
    youstopt
    aki
    ngyourpi
    l
    lscauseIwanta
    baby.
    *hewal
    ksout*
    He'sgoddamnoutofhi smind,I
    '
    m not
    hav i
    ngababywi thhim.Chr i
    shasgott o
    stopst alki
    ngmef orhisowngoodcauseI
    woul dn'twanthisbloodonmyhandsj us
    l
    ikemypar ent'
    s.Soaf terItr
    iedtorunaway
    2y earsagobutunf ortunatel
    ySenzocaught
    mebef oreIcouldskipt hecountr
    y,he
    star
    tedkeepingtabsonmeandt hati
    show
    hesawt hatIhadast alkerIhadtobeghim
    tonotharmt hepoorguyf orhedoesnot
    knowwhathe' sdoingsoIhav et
    of i
    nda
    wayt ot
    ellhimtostopst alki
    ngmeorel se
    hewillmeetthesamef atemypar ent
    smet
    ohmayt heirsoul
    sr estinpeace.
    Ohksoi t
    'sl ikethi
    sImar ri
    edSenzof or
    moneynotf orl
    ove,mymot herhadahear t
    problem andsheneededahear tsurgery
    unfortunat elywewer eapoorf ami lywe
    couldn'taff ordhersurgerythenoneday
    dadcamebackhomewi thhi sfriend
    (Senzo'sf ather)theywer etalkingabout
    menst uf
    ft hendadst ar
    tedt ell
    inghi m about
    mom' ssi tuat i
    onandSenzo' sf atherbei ng
    ri
    chof feredusmoneyf ormom' ssurger yi
    n
    retur
    nf ormyhandi nmar ri
    aget ohisy oung
    son,dadbl anklyrefusedImeanIwasonl y
    17soi twasunder standabl ebutIt alkedt o
    dadandbeggedhi mt ol etmemar rySenzo
    formom' ssakecauseme, myl i
    tt
    lesi sand
    him st illneededheri nourl i
    vesandaf t
    era
    l
    otofconv i
    ncingheagr eedt omemar ryi
    ng
    Senzo.Judgi ngbyt hebooksofar ranged
    mar riagesIt houghtIwoul dal someett he
    samef ateandt oeasemyconsci enceIt old
    my sel fthatSenzowi llbet hebesthusband
    hewi l
    l tr
    eatmel ikeaqueen, spoil meand
    mostofal l l
    ovemebuti nsteadhet urned
    outt obequi etanopposi t
    eoft hoset hings
    henev ert reatedmel i
    keaqueen, hehas
    nev erspoi l
    edmeandt heni tcomest o
    l
    ov e,onourmar riagedayhef orcefullytook
    myv irginitysayingithisr i
    ghtt henaf t
    erthat
    het oldmet hathel ovesmeandwi thjust
    thosewor dsIt houghthecoul dchangebut
    henev erdi dhehasnev erlov edmeandI
    believ ethathenev erwi ll
    ,hehasal way s
    beenobsessedhehasnev ermadel ovet o
    meheal way scer t
    ifi
    eshi msel fhedoesn' t
    careabouthowIf eel ori fIgethur tor
    what .
    ...
    .andbecausehehasani maget o
    keepheal l
    owedmet ocont inuewi t
    hmy
    studi esandwor kaf terwar dsandIdi dal l of
    thatwi t
    ht hebur saryIgothedi dn' toffer
    evenal i
    ttlecentI '
    m act ual lygladhedi dn' t
    orel seIwoul dn'theart heendofi t.Ihav e
    beenmar ri
    edt ohi mf or6y ear snow, 6y ears
    fi
    ll
    edwi t
    hunhappi ness, 6y ear sofendl ess
    tears,6y ear soft ortureandabuseal lsor ts
    ofabuse, 6y ear sofy ear ningf orsomet hi ngI
    willpr obabl ynev erget" Lov eand
    happi ness" .3y earsinourmar ri
    ageI
    coul dn'ttakei tIaskedf oradi vorceand
    toldhi mt hatI'
    llpaywhat ev eramountt hey
    paidf ormymom' ssur ger yassoonasI
    startedworkingbuthel ockedmeupi nthe
    Atticsayi
    ngIhav elostmymi ndIshould
    rethinkhatIhadjustsai dfor3day swit
    hout
    food.Iwasbr ainst
    ormi nganotherplanto
    runawaybuthear i
    ngt hathe'stheonewho
    kil
    ledmypar entsIthinkIshouldgi veup
    andacceptt hatI'
    ll
    beher efor
    ev ersi
    nceI
    don'twantany t
    hingtohappent omysi ster.

    AnywayI'm Nonkazi
    muloIsabel
    l
    aZondi
    I'
    m
    23yearsofagemar ri
    edtoamonster
    Senzokuhl
    eZondi .
    .
    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    "
    Happybi
    rt
    hdaytoyou,
    happybi
    rt
    hdayt
    o
    y
    ou,
    happybi
    rt
    hdaydearwif
    eyhappy
    bi
    rthdayt
    oyou"
    MJsi
    ngswal
    ki
    ngi
    nwi
    tha
    gi
    ftbag.
    Me:
    *smil
    ing*
    youhav
    eat
    err
    ibl
    evoi
    cebut
    t
    hankyou.
    Him:don'tr
    ubitin*
    chuckles*
    any
    wayher
    e's
    yourfi
    rstbir
    thdaygif
    t*handi
    ngmet
    hegif
    t
    bag*.
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    fir
    st?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahandbr
    eakf
    asti
    sal
    mostr
    eady
    .
    Ismel
    lsomet
    hingbur
    ning.
    Me:
    i
    sthatbr
    eakf
    astIsmel
    l
    ?
    Hequicklyrushesoutleavi
    ngmel aughing
    soft
    ly,Iopenthegif
    tbagandf indaZar a
    handbagI '
    vebeenwant i
    ngtomont hsItri
    ed
    toorderitonl
    inebutitwasoutofst ockI
    wonderhowhepul l
    editoff
    ,Iquicklyrushto
    themirroranddosomeposeswi ththe
    handbagdamni t'
    sperf
    ect.Il
    ayt
    he
    handbagnicel
    yont hebedandwalkout
    wit
    hMj thejaguar
    .
    Me:
    babe!
    !
    Him:I
    '
    m coming,
    I
    'm coming!
    !*
    heshout
    s
    backfr
    om t
    hekitchen*
    Hesoundsfrust
    rat
    ed,hecomestowards
    mewithadashingsmileweari
    nganapron
    damn,
    Ijumponhi m whi
    chissohar
    dbutI
    doandkisshim.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    woahwhat
    'st
    hatf
    or?
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuchf
    ort
    hehandbag,
    I
    l
    oveit
    .
    Hi
    m:I'
    m gladyouloveit
    ,nowsitdownand
    wai
    tforyourbir
    thdaybreakf
    ast.
    It
    akeaseatashegoesbacktotheki
    tchen
    i
    narush.Mom andDadhavealr
    eady
    wishedmeahappybi rthdayt
    heysai
    dmy
    presentwil
    lgether
    elater,
    ohandmy
    parentsi
    nlawgotmeaj ewel
    rybox
    yester
    daycausetheythoughtmybir
    thday
    wasy est
    erday.

    "
    Happyhappyhappyhappybi
    rt
    hday
    !!
    "
    Igetst
    art
    ledal i
    tt
    lebutendupsmili
    ngasI
    seeTasha,Zugo,
    Tom,Chris,
    Wandi
    l
    eand
    somegirlIdonotknow.
    Tom:
    whyi
    smi
    sspar
    tysi
    tt
    ingbyher
    sel
    f?
    Me:
    I'
    m notsi
    tt
    ingbymysel
    f,
    Mji
    sher
    ewi
    th
    me.
    IsaythatbrushingMj
    '
    sfurashe'
    sseatedi
    n
    thechairnexttomeandthegi
    rll
    ooksatme
    weir
    dly.
    Tom:
    ohofcour
    sehowcoul
    dIf
    orget
    .
    Tasha:wher
    edowepl acet
    hepr
    esent
    s
    you'
    llopenem l
    ater
    .
    Ipoi
    ntatanempt
    ytabl
    e.
    Zugo:agi
    ftf
    rom Z'
    yandai
    sal
    sohere,
    she
    sai
    dtosendherloveandahappybi
    rt
    hday
    toyou,wi
    shi
    ngtobehere.
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lcal
    lherl
    atert
    othankher
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Wandi
    le:
    ohandthisi
    sSbahlemygirl
    fr
    iendI
    hopey
    oudon'tmindthatIbr
    oughther
    al
    ong.
    Me:
    *smil
    i
    ng*notatal
    l
    ,ni
    cet
    omeety
    ou,
    I
    'm
    Mbal
    enhl
    e.
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    esback*
    nicet
    omeety
    out
    oo.
    Chr
    is:
    nowyouladi
    esgopampery
    our
    sel
    ves
    whi
    lewesetupforthepar
    ty.
    Me:
    whatpar
    ty?
    Tom:y
    ou'
    reaski
    ngt
    oomuchquest
    ionsj
    ust
    go.
    Me:noI'
    m st
    il
    lwaiti
    ngf
    orbreakf
    astfr
    om
    myhusband*fol
    dingmyarmswhi l
    e
    pouti
    ng*
    Tasha:i
    nthatcasel
    et'
    sal
    lhav
    esome
    breakf
    astfi
    rst
    .
    Theyall
    sitdown,wet alkaboutrandom
    thi
    ngswaiti
    ngforbr eakfastthenoutof
    nowhereKhayacomesoutr unni
    ngfrom t
    he
    kit
    chengoingthrought hepassage,when
    didhegethere?andwhat '
    shedoinginthe
    kit
    chenwithMJ.
    Tasha:
    *sni
    ff
    s*doy
    ouguy
    ssmel
    lthat
    ?
    Me:MJdonottel
    lmey
    ouar
    ebur
    ning
    br
    eakf
    astagai
    n!!
    !
    Khay
    acomesbackr
    unni
    ngwi
    tht
    hred
    thi
    ngi
    ethati
    susedtoputoutf
    ir
    e,hest
    ands
    nextt
    othetabl
    eandcatchhi
    sbreathf
    ir
    st.
    Khaya:Happybir
    thdaywifey,
    donotwor
    ry
    ever
    ythingisundercont
    rol*
    smil
    es*
    Me:
    ar.
    ..
    MJ:
    Khay
    ahur
    ryup!
    !!
    !!
    !
    Khay
    arunsbackt
    otheki
    tchen.
    Weallr
    ushtot
    heki
    tchenandfi
    ndthem
    put
    ti
    ngoutasmal
    lfi
    reonthest
    ove.
    Me:
    THEHECK!
    !
    MJ:
    Khay
    aIt
    oldy
    ouy
    ourpl
    anwoul
    dn'
    twor
    k.
    Khaya:
    buti
    nrest
    aurantstheyli
    ghtupfi
    re
    ontopofstov
    esandev eryt
    hingtur
    nsout
    fi
    neinabli
    nkofaney es,
    whatdidIdo
    wrong?MaybeIpouredtoomuchoi lonthe
    stov
    eorm...
    Me:
    Youdi
    dwhat
    ??!
    !
    Heget
    sst
    art
    ledal
    i
    ttl
    e.
    Me:
    you2al
    mostbur
    ntmyki
    tchen.
    MJ:
    wear
    esosor
    rybabebuti
    tisal
    lKhay
    a's
    f
    aul
    t.
    Khay
    a:*
    dramat
    ical
    l
    yhol
    dshi
    schest
    *excuse
    me?
    Idosomebreat
    hingexer
    cisescal
    ming
    mysel
    fdown.
    Me:
    bot
    hofy
    ougi
    vemey
    ourwal
    l
    ets.
    Theyopentheirmouthstosaysomethi
    ng
    butIgi
    veem adeadst areandt
    heytakeout
    thei
    rwall
    etsandgiv
    et hem t
    ome.
    Me:ohkgi
    rl
    slet
    'sgosetthewhol
    emal
    lon
    f
    ir
    ewi t
    hthesecredi
    tcar
    ds.
    Tom:
    wow,
    anot
    herr
    easonwhyI
    '
    llnev
    erdat
    e
    Imeanl
    ookath.
    .
    Igi
    vehi
    m adeadst
    are.
    Tom:
    I'
    m sor
    rypl
    easedon'
    ttakemywal
    l
    et.
    Irol
    lmyey esandme, TashaandSbahl
    e
    i
    ncludingMj t
    hejaguarwalkoutl
    eavi
    ngthe
    guyslaughingatMJandKhay a.

    ~i
    nser
    t64~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    thespadi
    dmeandj
    uni
    orsomegoodI
    f
    eel
    rejuv
    enat
    ed.
    Tasha:
    andthecl
    othesbabe,
    Ifeel
    likeI
    boughtawholenewenti
    recl
    oset*smil
    es*
    Sbahl
    e:t
    heyar
    en'
    tbankr
    upt
    ednow?
    ?
    Me:
    well
    webankr
    upt
    edKhay
    a's2car
    dsand
    3ofMJ'
    s.
    Sbahl
    e:*
    shocked*
    uhm may
    beweshoul
    d
    st
    opnow.
    Tasha:
    aibobabygir
    lwhatar
    eyout
    alki
    ng
    about,
    wehav etoevent
    henumber
    s.
    Il
    aughatherwhil
    eSbahl
    egi
    vesusan
    uncer
    tai
    nlook.
    Me:
    exact
    lybabe.
    Tasha:
    butwhatshoul
    dwebuynext
    ?
    Me:Ithi
    nkweshoul dbuysomeclothesand
    alotoffoodthenwithdrawev
    erycentlef
    t
    t
    henwet akeal
    lofthatatMal
    aika
    OrphanageCenter.
    Tasha:
    l
    et'
    sgett
    oitt
    hen.
    Soguy
    swi
    tht
    he5f
    ir
    stcar
    dswebought
    newphones, newl aptopsweev enbought
    thosethi
    ngsf orZ'yandat oo,weboughtal ot
    Imeanal otofclothes,
    shoes, handbagsand
    somef urnit
    ureal otoft hi
    ngsguy sI'
    m
    prett
    ysuret hefurnit
    urehasal r
    eadygotten
    homeohweal soboughtbabyKi ara
    clot
    hes,t
    oy sandot herthings,Khay aandMJ
    mustbel osingtheirmi ndsrightnow.
    Anywayweboughteveryt
    hingfort
    he
    Orphanageandal
    sohir
    edat ruckt
    odel
    i
    ver
    every
    thi
    ngther
    e.
    Me:
    ohkI'mti
    rednow,
    Ineedanotherf
    oot
    massageandImissmyhusband.
    Tasha:
    *gi
    ggles*
    youshouldn'
    tmisshi
    m
    causeIdon'
    tthi
    nkhe'sgonnabetal
    ki
    ngt
    o
    youforanenti
    reweek.
    Me:
    hewoul
    dn'
    tdar
    e,I
    ..
    Igeti
    nter
    rupt
    edbyaf
    ami
    l
    iarf
    ace.
    Tasha:
    doy
    ouknowher
    ?
    Me:
    *st
    il
    ll
    ooki
    ngatt
    hel
    ady
    *uh?
    Tasha:
    thewayy
    ouarelooki
    ngatthepoor
    womeni t
    'sl
    i
    keyouknowherorsomethi
    ng.
    Me:shel
    ooksreal
    l
    yfamil
    iar
    ,butIdon'
    t
    knowwhereI'
    veseenher
    .
    Tasha:
    I'
    l
    lbeback.
    Shewalkst
    othefamil
    i
    arl
    adyandwal
    ks
    backt
    ouswi t
    hher.
    Tasha:
    okIbr
    oughtherbacknowl
    ookather
    cl
    osely
    .
    HebanaTasha.
    Me:
    uhm I
    '
    m sor
    ryi
    tj.
    ..
    wai
    tyourey
    es.
    Lady
    :*conf
    used*
    what
    'swr
    ongwi
    thmyey
    es?
    Me:
    I'
    veseent
    hem bef
    ore.
    Lady:
    uhm I
    'm sor
    rypr
    incessbutIt
    hink
    you'
    remist
    akingmewi t
    hsomeoneel se.
    Me:
    uhm what
    'sy
    ourname?
    Her
    :I
    sabel
    l
    a.
    Ev
    enhernamesoundsf
    ami
    l
    iar
    ..
    .wai
    t
    Me:
    doy
    oubyanychanceknowChr
    is?
    Herey
    espopouty
    erpsheknowshi
    m.
    Her
    :uhm y
    eahuhIshoul
    dgetgoi
    ng.
    Me:
    wai
    tmayIpl
    easehav
    eyournumber
    .
    Shegivesmehernumberwit
    hhesit
    ati
    on
    thensheleav
    esandwealsoret
    urnhome.
    Tasha:
    babeareyousureyou'
    reokaycause
    you'
    vebeenquietev
    ersincewelef
    tthemall
    .
    Me:babeIknowherey
    esI
    '
    veseenem
    somewhere.
    Her
    :butwher
    e?
    If
    eel
    tear
    sthr
    eat
    eni
    ngt
    ocomeout
    .
    Me:
    Ican'
    tremember
    .
    Wewal
    kinsi
    det
    hehouse.
    Her
    :wai
    t,
    youwantt
    ocr
    ybecausey
    oucan'
    t
    r
    emember?
    Inod.
    Her
    :Isal
    utepr
    egnancy
    ,woahdi
    dtheycl
    ean
    t
    heentir
    ehouse?
    Thehouselooksspotlessandsoqui
    etand
    thef
    urni
    tur
    ehasar r
    ivedalready
    .
    "
    Oht
    hegirl
    sthem gi
    rl
    s"Tom say
    swal
    ki
    ngi
    n
    t
    hel
    ounge.
    Tom:
    aiIr
    especty
    ou*
    hebows*Khay
    a
    al
    mostcr
    ied.

    °
    Khay
    a°
    WawuIhav
    enowor
    dsI
    '
    mjustWow.
    Zugo:
    Ithi
    nkt
    hat
    'st
    hem.
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    lnott
    alkt
    othem.
    Wandi:
    *l
    aughs*
    andhow'st
    hatgonnahel
    p
    youcausethemoneyi
    sgone.
    Me:
    voet
    sekWandi
    l
    eleav
    emeal
    one.
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*
    wher
    e'sMJ?
    Me:pr
    obabl
    ygi
    vi
    nghi
    sshe-
    dev
    ilhersecond
    pr
    esent.
    Tom:she-
    devi
    l
    ?Isowi
    shMbal
    ihear
    dyou
    say
    ingthat
    .
    Me:
    Iwi
    l
    ltel
    lherwhensheget
    sher
    .
    Tom:
    *l
    aughs*
    I'
    ll
    remi
    ndy
    ou.
    Zugo:
    byt
    hewaywhat
    'st
    hesecondgi
    ft
    ?
    Me:
    adr
    essanddomej
    ewel
    ryf
    ort
    oni
    ght
    .
    Chr
    is:
    adr
    ess?
    ?
    Me:
    exact
    lywhatIaskedhi
    m.
    Chri
    s:maybeshe'
    lll
    i
    keit,
    theset
    tingupi
    s
    doneandallt
    hatislef
    tisMbaliandMJto
    j
    oinus..
    Khayayou'
    llbethewait
    er.
    Me:
    whyme?
    Chr
    is:
    becausey
    ou'
    retheonewhoof
    fer
    edt
    o
    beawaiterf
    ort
    oday.
    Me:
    wel
    lIhav
    echangedmymi
    nd.
    Tom:
    *l
    aughs*
    Idon'
    tmi
    ndI
    '
    lldoi
    t.
    Wel l
    MJi stakingMbalitoadinnerdate
    herebyt hepool,
    wehav esetupeverythi
    ng
    thethemei sblackandyell
    owMbal i'
    s
    favouri
    tecolourswealsohavetochange
    nowi nt
    oourbl ackwait
    erunif
    orm.
    Tashawal
    kstouswit
    hWandil
    e'
    sgi
    rlshe'
    s
    rat
    hert
    oquietf
    ormyli
    ki
    ng.
    Tasha:
    * bl
    ownaway
    *Wowguy
    sthi
    sis
    beauti
    ful.
    Me:
    yahwena.
    Tom hol
    dsi
    nhi
    slaught
    er.
    Tasha:
    whatdi
    dIdo?
    Me:
    3cardsTasha?Real
    l
    yyouhat
    emet
    hat
    much?
    Herf
    acegoessour,
    wai
    tthatwasmeantt
    o
    beajokeIswear
    .
    Her
    :uhm I
    ..
    .
    Me:Ididn'
    tmeanthatinanoff
    ensi
    veway
    butdidyouguysreal
    lyhavet
    ouse3cards?
    1woul dhavebeenenough.
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    wel
    li
    t'
    swhatMbal
    iwant
    ed
    so*
    shr
    ugshershoul
    der
    s*
    Me:Wandileyouhavetopayforeveryt
    hing
    thatyourgir
    lboughtwi
    thmycards,Zugo
    you'l
    lpayforZ'
    yandaIdon'
    tmindforbaby
    Kiara,
    MJwi l
    lpayforhi
    sshe-
    devil
    and
    Tashay oubett
    erfi
    ndaboyfri
    endIwantmy
    moneyshame.
    Zugo:*
    laughs*
    fir
    stl
    yIai
    n'
    tpayi
    ngnothi
    ng
    secondlydon'
    tusethewor
    d"shame"broh
    yousoundgay .
    Chr
    is:
    thi
    rdl
    ylet
    'sgochange.
    Tasha:
    change?
    Tom:
    yeah.
    Weusemyr oom tochangeohturnsout
    Tom i
    sagr eatcookerl
    ikeBonga
    unf
    ort
    unatelyBongaisnotheretodayhis
    j
    obrequi
    rest r
    avel
    ingalotwehardlyspend
    ti
    met oget
    hernow,Imeangr owingupitwas
    the3ofusagainsttheworld( me,
    Bonga
    andMJ)wewer et
    he3t r
    oubl esomecause
    wherevert
    here'
    str
    oublethere'sus.
    Tom:
    damnIlookgoodi
    nthi
    suni
    for
    m*f
    ixes
    hi
    sbowt
    ie*
    Me:
    notasgoodasme,
    Imeanl
    ookatme.
    Tom:
    y.
    ..
    Chr
    is:
    ohkl
    et'
    sgo.
    Wegobackout si
    debyt hepool,
    Tom goes
    tocheckont hefoodohhher ecomesthe
    she-
    devilwit
    hherhusbandandt hedress
    doeslookgoodonher ,shepausesasshe
    l
    ooksar oundwithtear
    sf or
    ming.
    Her
    :youguy
    sdi
    dal
    loft
    hisf
    orme?
    MJnodsandhert
    ear
    sdr
    ops.
    Her
    :Idon'
    tknowwhatt
    osay
    ,thanky
    ouso
    much.
    Zugo:
    pleaseki
    ndl
    yfol
    l
    owmeMi
    ss.
    MJ:
    Mrs.
    Theywalktothetabl
    eandt akeaseat
    ,Chr
    is
    takesamenut othem whi
    leWandil
    egives
    them st
    art
    ers.
    Zugoplayssomesoftmusic.
    .
    ..
    ..
    Thedinnergoesper fect
    ly,
    Tom outdone
    hi
    msel fwellnooneknowst hatI
    '
    vealr
    eady
    at
    ebecauseIwantasecondpl ateof
    ever
    ythingandt heyarenowondeser t
    .
    Si
    nceIwasn' tdoingmuchmyey eswere
    ever
    ywher eandt heyhappenedtolandon
    Sbahl
    ewhohasbeenl ookingatmybrother
    si
    ncethedi nnerstart
    ed.Tom comesand
    st
    andsnextt ome.
    Hi
    m:br
    ahi
    sitmeori
    sWandi
    l
    e'sgi
    rley
    eing
    MJ?
    Me:i
    tlooksl
    i
    keshei
    s,l
    ookathowshe'
    s
    l
    ooki
    ngathim.
    Hi
    m:he'
    smar
    ri
    edf
    orChr
    istsake.
    Me:worsetheguyshe'
    sdr
    ool
    i
    ngov
    eri
    sher
    boy
    fri
    end'scousi
    n.
    Wer
    emai
    nqui
    et.
    Me:
    shoul
    dwet
    ell
    Wandi
    l
    e?
    Tom:
    shoul
    dwet
    ell
    Wandi
    l
    e?
    Wesayt
    hati
    nuni
    son.
    Me:
    Nah.
    Hi
    m:Nah.
    Wesayt
    hati
    nuni
    sonagai
    n.
    Hi
    m:ohher
    ecomest
    heexci
    ti
    ngpar
    t.
    Me:l
    etmegetitoncamera.
    *taki
    ngoutmy
    phoneandst
    artfi
    l
    ming*
    Him:It
    houghtyousai
    dthi
    sent
    ir
    epl
    acehas
    surv
    eil
    lancecamer
    as.
    Me:
    i
    tdoes,
    thi
    svi
    deoi
    sforBonga.
    Tom:
    oht
    heguywhocoul
    dn'
    tmakei
    t.
    Me:
    yeah.
    .
    ..
    MJ: Isti
    ll
    remembert hefi
    rstdayIsaw
    you,youwer eweari
    ngamask* chuckl
    es* not
    l
    isteningtoanythi
    ngdadwassay ingy ou
    wer einyourownwor ld,t
    hat'
    swheny ou
    tookmyat t
    enti
    onmaki ngmewantt ogett o
    knowy oueventhoughIdidn'
    tknewy our
    face.Ididn'
    tknowwhatexact lyIwas
    feeli
    ngbyt henbutthedayIsawy ourey es
    mywal l
    scamedowncr umbling,wit
    hj ust
    onestareint
    oy ourrealeyesIf
    elldeepfor
    youeventhoughIdi dn'
    tknewy ourface,
    we
    havefacedsomechal l
    engesal
    ongt hisone
    yearbutherewear etogetheri
    nourhouse
    expecti
    ngourl i
    tt
    lej
    uniorwhohasgott o
    comeoutnowcausedamnbabey ou'
    re
    showingmef lames.
    Weal
    ll
    aughatt
    hat
    .
    MJ:butthatisnott
    hepoint,
    thepoi
    ntisI
    l
    ovey ouwithevery
    thingi
    nmebutev en
    t
    houghIl oveyoual otwear
    estil
    lgonna
    t
    alkaboutmy3car dsaft
    erthi
    s.
    Me:
    Preachbr
    otherpr
    each!
    !
    Tom si
    l
    ent
    lyl
    aughsnextt
    ome.
    MJ:
    *cl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *sot
    hisi
    syourl
    astgi
    ft
    .
    Hest
    andsupandgoesdownononeknee
    i
    nfr
    ontofMbal
    iwholooksconf
    usedand
    shocked,
    het
    akesoutt
    her
    ingbox.
    MJ:Iknowt hatwearealreadymar ri
    edbut
    ourmar ri
    agewast osati
    sfyancestors,so
    hereIam downonmykneeaski ngy outo
    all
    owust osayourv owsf orourloveasking
    yout oall
    owust ofi
    nall
    yputonr ingsonour
    l
    eftsecondf i
    ngers,
    aski
    ngy outomakeme
    themosthappi estmanint heentir
    e
    universeandbemywi f
    e*smi l
    es*again.
    Mbali
    issuchamessrightnowtearskeep
    f
    all
    i
    ngev enwhenshewipesthem of
    f.
    Her
    :*noddi
    ng*
    yes.
    Hesli
    psintheri
    ngandst
    andsupt
    henki
    ss
    herf
    ordearli
    fewhi
    lewecheer
    .
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    Ihear
    tyouwi
    thev
    ery
    thi
    ngi
    n
    me.
    MJ:
    *smi
    l
    esback*
    andIhear
    tyouwaymor
    e
    t
    hant
    hat
    .
    Mbal
    il
    ooksatuswi
    pinghert
    ear
    s.
    Her:t
    hanky ouguy ssomuchf ormakingmy
    bir
    thdayspeci al
    ,onl
    ySiphoknowshowt o
    makei tspeci albutyouguy soutdone
    yourselvesandmadei tawesomeohand
    Khayat hanky ousomuch, MJt ol
    dmet hat
    all
    oft hi
    st hedi nnerbythepool wasyour
    i
    deat hanky ouIloveit
    .
    Shecomest
    omesmil
    i
    ngandgi
    vesmea
    hugmaki
    ngmesmi
    let
    oo.
    Tom:
    ohKhay
    ahasanewnamef
    ory
    ou.
    Me:don'tmindhim hedoesn'
    tknowwhat
    he'
    stalkingabout
    ,bloodyl
    i
    ar.
    Mbal
    izoneout
    .
    Her
    :bl
    ood.
    Me:
    uh?
    Her:
    blood,
    yeahnowIr
    ememberwher
    eI
    sawhereyes.
    MJ:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutbabe?
    Her
    :sheneedsmyhel
    p,l
    etmegocal
    lher
    .
    Shegoesi
    nsi
    del
    eav
    ingusconf
    used.

    ~i
    nser
    t65~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Pi
    ckuppi
    ckuppi
    ckup.
    /
    /
    Her
    :hel
    l
    o.
    Me:
    hi,
    mayIspeakt
    oIsabel
    l
    a.
    Her
    :t
    hisi
    sherspeaki
    ng.
    Me:
    ohheythi
    sisMbalenhl
    ethegi
    rlwho
    t
    ookyournumbert
    odayatthemal
    l.
    Her
    :ohhpr
    incess.
    Me:
    pleasecal
    lmeMbal
    i
    .
    Her
    :uhh.
    .
    Me:orcal
    lmeany
    wayy
    oul
    i
    kej
    ustnot
    pr
    incess.
    Her
    :okI
    '
    llcal
    lyouMbal
    i
    .
    Me:any
    waycanwemeetupt
    omor
    row
    pl
    easeIj.
    ..
    Her
    :withal
    lduerespectpri
    nc.
    .Imean
    Mbalenhl
    eIdon'
    tappr eci
    atet
    hishooki
    ng
    meupwi thChr
    isIt..
    .
    Me:ohnoyou'
    vegoti
    tal
    lwrong,
    tr
    ustme
    whateveri
    sgoi
    ngonbetweenyouand
    Chri
    sisnoneofmybusinessIj
    ustreal
    l
    y
    havetotalkt
    oyouaboutsomet
    hingandI
    can'
    treal
    lysayi
    tov
    erthephonesoplease
    canwemeett omor
    rowatmugandbeans?
    Her:
    *si
    ghs*ohkbutcani
    tbeinthemor
    ning
    causeIhav
    eabusydayt omorr
    owatwork.
    Me:
    okt
    hanks,
    I
    'l
    lseey
    out
    omor
    rowt
    hen.
    Her
    :goodni
    ght
    .
    Me:
    thanks,
    goodni
    ghtt
    oyout
    oo.
    //
    "
    Babear
    eyouok?
    "
    It
    urnandf
    acehi
    m.
    Me:
    yeahI
    '
    llbef
    ine.
    Hi
    m:what
    'swr
    ong?
    Isighandtellhi
    m ev
    eryt
    hingst
    art
    ingf
    rom
    thedream IhadaboutBel
    la.
    Hi
    m:wowuhm okhowwi
    l
    lyouhel
    pher
    ?
    Me:wel
    lI'
    m meeti
    nghert omorrowmor ning
    she'
    sgonnahavetot el
    lmeherent i
    restory
    andwhoisthe"he"thati
    sgoingt okil
    lheri
    f
    Idon'
    thel
    pthenI'
    llt
    akeitfrom ther
    e.
    Hi
    m:i
    sshemar
    ri
    ed?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknow.
    Him:i
    fshe'sbeingabusedIthi
    nkyoushould
    l
    etmeandt heguystakeoverbecausebabe
    you'
    repregnantandIdon'twantyou
    str
    essi
    ngy oursel
    fout.
    Il
    ookdownpl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thmyf
    inger
    s.
    Hi
    m:what
    ?
    Me:*
    looki
    nguptohi
    m*Ij
    ustdon'
    twant
    any
    oneelsedyi
    ng.
    Hi
    m:*f
    rowns*
    soy
    oupr
    efert
    haty
    oudi
    e
    i
    nst
    ead?
    Me:Iwastheonewhowasshownt hatshe
    needshel
    p,I
    '
    mt heonewho'
    ssupposeto
    hel
    pher.
    Him:don'
    ty outhinkthatmay bethey
    showedy out hatsheneedshel ponly
    becausey ouar etheonlypersontheycan
    communi catewi t
    h?May betheyshowed
    youallofthatjustsoy oucanaskf or
    assi
    stancet ohelpthisgir
    l.
    Iuhm Idi
    dn'
    tthi
    nkaboutt
    hatatal
    l
    .
    Him:solet
    'snotargueaboutthi
    sokcause
    I
    'm notabouttoloseyou,
    youwillgotal
    kto
    hertomorrowandy ouwil
    lall
    owust ohelp
    her.
    Isi
    ghandnod.
    Him:
    nowthati
    soutoft
    heway
    ,Tom baked
    youabi
    rt
    hdaycake.
    Me: *
    smili
    ng*pleaset
    ell
    himtoplacemy
    pieceinthefri
    dgecauseri
    ghtnowIwantto
    sleepI'
    mr eal
    lytir
    edpl
    ustomorrowIhav
    e
    towakeupear l
    y.
    Hi
    m:ohk.
    .ohbytheayIhaven'
    tfor
    gotabout
    my3cards*r
    aiseshi
    slef
    teyebr
    ow*
    Ismi l
    ener vousl
    yandwal ktoourroom, I
    '
    m
    reall
    ygr at
    efultothepeopl eIsurr
    ound
    my selfwithcausehonest lyIwasn'tlooking
    forwardt omybi r
    thdaysi ncethi
    sist hef i
    rst
    birt
    hdaywi thoutmybr other,
    I'
    m excluding
    the5y ear
    sofwhenIwaski dnappedwhenI
    was" Nokwanda"wel lbecauseIknew
    nothingaboutmyt rueidenti
    tyandIdi dn't
    exactlycelebrat
    emybi rt
    hdaysinthose5
    yearssoI '
    m notcount ingthem,any way
    theymademybi r
    thdaywor t
    hcelebrating
    event houghmybr otherwasn'there..
    .and
    wheni tcomest oMJohIt hankgodf or
    blessi
    ngmewi thhim andIt hankt heAv atar
    Queensf orgivingmehi mtobemy
    husbandI 'mjustsol ucky ,Ncami oncet ol
    d
    met hatthepr eviousA. Queent hel astone
    beforemehadt oleaveherownf ami l
    y,her
    husbandandki dst omar r
    yanewman
    chosenf orherandst artanewf ami l
    ywi th
    thatguysoI 'mj ustreallygratefulthatIgot
    tomar ryaguyt hatIl oveandwhohappens
    tolovesmet oo.Onemor ethingIhav egot
    tolearnhownott obei gnorantcauset hat'
    s
    oneoft henegat ivethingsIhav elearnt
    aboutmy sel
    f,
    therear esomanypeopl eout
    therewhowi l
    lwantmyhel pandf ormet o
    helpthem wi t
    hinabl inkofaney eIhav eto
    l
    ear nnott obeignor ant.
    .

    Thef
    oll
    owi
    ngday

    Ir
    usht
    owher
    eBel
    l
    aisseat
    ed,
    I
    'm sol
    ate.
    Me:forgi
    vemef ormaki
    ngy ou
    wait,
    sometimesIfor
    getthatI'
    m sl
    owi
    n
    everyt
    hingthatIdowi
    ththishuge
    bell
    y*sit
    ti
    ngdown*
    Her
    :*smil
    es*
    it'
    sokIact
    ual
    l
    yjustgother
    e
    myself
    .
    Me:
    goodt
    hen,
    any
    wayhowar
    eyou?
    Her
    :I
    'm goodandy
    our
    sel
    f?
    Me:I
    '
    m alsogood*smil
    i
    ng*sothereason
    behi
    ndthismeetupisuhm Iwantt
    ohelp
    you.
    Her
    :*conf
    used*
    hel
    pme?Wi
    thwhat
    ?
    Me:
    Iknowt
    hisi
    sgoi
    ngt
    osoundwei
    rdbutI
    hadadream ofyouafewday
    sback,
    you
    wereaski
    ngforhelpI
    ..
    Her:
    you'r
    ecreepingmeoutpri
    ncessImean
    MbalenhlecauseIdonotneedanyhel
    pare
    yousureiti
    smey oudr
    eamtabout?
    Me:
    yesI'
    m sure,
    andIknowthatyouknow
    t
    hatyouneedhelp,
    al
    lyouhavetodoistel
    l
    meyourstor
    yandthekindofhel
    py ouneed.
    Her:
    *smiles*nahIthinkyouaremistaki
    ng
    mef orsomebodyel secauseser
    iouslyIdo
    notneedhel pwithanyt
    hingandIpraythat
    youfindthatpersonwhoneedshelp,Ihave
    togonow. *standsup*
    CouldIhavebeenwr ong?Di
    dIr eal
    l
    y
    mistakenherforsomebodyel se?My
    i
    nstinct
    saretelli
    ngmei t'
    sheranditissai
    d
    thattr
    ustyourinsti
    ncts.
    Me:
    wai
    t,
    mayIhol
    dyourhand.
    Shel
    ooksatmeconf
    usedanduncer
    tai
    n.
    Me:pl
    easeaf
    tert
    hatIwi
    l
    lnev
    erbot
    hery
    ou
    agai
    n.
    Shesi tsbackdownandgi v emeher
    hand, ohgodt hi
    sbetterwor ks.Ii nhaleand
    exhal ebeforeholdi
    ngherr ighthandt hen
    closemyey esconcent r
    ati
    ngont hedr eam I
    had,Ncami 'shardpracti
    ceisr eallycomi ng
    i
    nhandyr i
    ghtnow...
    everyt
    hi ngst arts
    gettingclearasthebloodonherf acest ar
    ts
    fadingawaywel li
    t'
    sli
    keev er ythingabout
    herisbei ngplayedtomei nr everset oup
    untilshewaspoorwi thherf ami ly..
    .bythe
    ti
    meIl etgoofherhandI 'ml ooki ngdeep
    i
    nt oherey eswithtearsstreami ngdownmy
    cheeks.
    She'
    sgi
    vi
    ngmea"
    you'
    recr
    eepy
    "look.
    Me:*
    wipi
    ngmyt ear
    s*i
    tseemslikeI
    '
    llbe
    goi
    ngagainstmywordofneverbot
    hering
    youagai
    ncauseyoureal
    lydoneedhelp.
    Her
    :okI
    '
    m doneher
    e*st
    andsup*
    Me:I
    sabell
    ay ouar
    emar r
    iedtoamonst er,i
    f
    youdonotal l
    owmetohel pyou.
    ..
    tr
    ustme
    hewil
    lkil
    lyoucausehisobsessi
    onwithy ou
    i
    sslowlygoinguptotherooft
    opandwhen
    i
    tgetsther
    enoonecanpr edi
    ctwhathe'l
    l
    dotoyou.
    Shestandssti
    l
    llooki
    ngatmewi
    tht
    ear
    y
    eyesorisshefr
    ozen?
    Me:pl
    easeBel
    laletmehel
    py ou,
    yousti
    ll
    haveasist
    erwholooksuptoyou,whosti
    ll
    needsyousoplease.
    Sheslowl
    ysi
    tsbackdownagainandburi
    es
    herheadt
    oherhandsthenIhearsof
    tsni
    ff
    s
    It
    hinkshe'scr
    ying,
    sher
    aisesherheadand
    wi
    pesof fhert
    ears.
    Her:
    Idon'tknowhowy ouknowal lof
    that
    ,buthowwi ll
    youhelpmecauset r
    ust
    meit'suselessIhav
    etriedtorunawaybutI
    endedupl osingmyparents.
    Me:
    ther
    earepeopleIwoul
    dli
    key
    out
    o
    meetwhocanhelp.
    Her
    :SenzoisdangerousIdonotwant
    i
    nnocentpeopl
    elosingthei
    rli
    vesbecause
    ofme,pl
    usyouhav en'
    ttol
    dmehowy ou'
    ll
    hel
    pmeexact l
    y.
    Me:*
    sighi
    ng*I
    ..
    wel
    lletmenotusetheword
    I
    ,wecanhelpyoubygett
    ingyourhusband
    t
    osignthediv
    orcepaper
    stheng..
    Her
    :t
    hatwon'
    twor
    k,Ihav
    eboughtexpensi
    ve
    l
    awyerst
    ohel
    pmebutnot hi
    ngworkedoutI
    eventri
    edtot
    ri
    ckhimt
    osigni
    ngt
    hepaper
    s
    butthatal
    sodi
    dn'
    twor
    k.
    Me:whycan' ty
    oujusthavefait
    hinme? I'
    m
    hereofferi
    nghelptoyouonasi l
    verplat
    ter
    theleastyoucoulddoisacceptitandhave
    fai
    thinmei fyouwanttoliveandalsoifyou
    wantt oleavet
    hatmonster,i
    fyoudon'twant
    anyoft hatj
    ustsatsoI'
    l
    ljustgohomeand
    helpotherswhowant shelp.
    I
    '
    m gett
    ingworkedoutnow,
    whyi
    sshe
    maki
    ngmyt askhar
    d?
    Her
    :*shocked*uhm ohkt
    hen.
    *l
    ooksather
    wri
    stwatch*f
    li
    pI'mlatef
    orwork.
    Me:ohcouldy
    oucomebyatmyhouseso
    youcanmeettheot
    her
    s,I
    '
    llsendy
    out
    he
    address.
    Her
    :t
    hatwoul
    dbeami
    ssi
    oni
    mpossi
    bleI
    onl
    yleavethehousewhenIam goi
    ngto
    workonlyIdonotgoanywher
    eelsecauseI
    mightgetpuni
    shedpl
    ushekeepstabson
    me.
    Me:t
    ell
    himI
    '
    myourf
    ri
    endandIi
    nvi
    tedy
    ou
    ov
    er.
    Her:
    * cl
    earsherthroat*hedoesn'
    tappr
    ove
    theideaofhavingf r
    iends,
    whenIgethome
    aft
    erwor khewi l
    laskmewhatwewer e
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutmeani ngIhav etothi
    nkofa
    l
    iecauseI '
    m sureheknowsI '
    m her
    ewith
    you.
    Isi
    ghi
    nfr
    ust
    rat
    ion.
    Me:okyoucangot
    owor
    knowI
    '
    llcal
    lyou
    l
    ater.
    Shenodsandwal
    kaway
    ,may
    beMJwi
    l
    l
    knowwhattodo.
    "Mbalenhlehey
    "Sbahl
    esay swalkingtomy
    tabl
    e,
    It i
    l
    tmyheadt otheleftt
    here's
    somet hi
    ngaboutthi
    sgirl
    thatIcan'tputmy
    fi
    ngerinit.

    ~i
    nser
    t66~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Me:
    hey
    *faki
    ngasmi
    l
    e*
    Her
    :doy
    oumi
    ndi
    fIj
    oiny
    ou?
    Me:uhm act
    ual
    l
    yIwasaboutt
    ogoback
    home,Iwasmeeti
    ngupwit
    hsomeone.
    Her:owI'
    m actuall
    yboredandIwasthi
    nki
    ng
    ofcomingov eryourhouseaft
    ereat
    ing
    breakf
    astheretohangout .
    Me:
    uhhuhm.
    .
    Her
    :Igeti
    tify
    oudon'
    twantt
    ohangout
    .
    Me: noit'
    snotthatit
    'j
    ustt
    hattodayI'
    m
    planningonspendingmyent i
    redaywithmy
    husbandsi ncehe'l
    lbegoi
    ngtowor k
    tomor rowsohangingouttodayisn'
    tagreat
    i
    dea. .
    ohmay bey oucoul
    dvisi
    tTasha.
    Her:
    *fakesasmi
    l
    e*y
    eahItotal
    l
    yunder
    stand,
    coul
    dy ougi
    vemeheraddr
    ess.
    Igi
    veherTasha'
    saddr
    essandbi
    dher
    goodbyet
    henbeonmywayhomewi t
    hmy
    buddy.

    °
    Tasha°

    "
    Atl
    eastcany
    ougi
    vemey
    ournumber
    s"
    Aght hi
    sguy,he'
    sbeenfoll
    owingmefor2
    weeksnowandal sohavebeenaski
    ngme
    out,
    I'vetol
    dhim sever
    alti
    mesthatI
    'm not
    i
    nterestedwhywon'thejustl
    eavemeal one?
    Me:
    dudeI
    '
    m noti
    nter
    est
    ed.
    Him:atleastgiv
    emear easonwhyyou
    aren'
    tinter
    ested?CauseIknowthatyou
    don'thaveaboy fr
    iend.
    Iturnandlookathi
    m,I'
    m atPi
    ck'npay'
    s
    parkingl
    otwaiti
    ngforanuberIhavegott
    o
    buyacarnowbutf ir
    stIhavetomov eout
    mypar ent
    'shouse.
    Me:whatdoyoumeany
    ouknowt
    hatIdon'
    t
    hav
    eaboy fr
    iend?
    Hi
    m:Imeanexactl
    ythat
    ,pleasejustgi
    veme
    achanceandseewhereittakesusplease.
    May
    bet
    heguyhasahear
    ingpr
    obl
    em
    may behei sn'
    thearingmesay ing"I
    '
    m not
    Int
    erested",
    IseeKhay awal ki
    ngtowardsus
    carr
    y i
    ng2pl ast
    icshesmi l
    eswhenhesees
    meandIgi vehim a" pleasehelp"f
    aceand
    hegivesmeaconf usedf acethenIpointat
    thi
    sguyi nf r
    ontofmeusi ngmyey es,he
    keepswal kingti
    ll
    her eachesus.
    Khay
    a:howzi
    tbr
    ah?
    Guy:
    *l
    ooksatKhay
    aupanddown*
    good
    man.
    Khay
    a:uhm what
    'sgoi
    ngonher
    e?
    Guy:*
    pissed*
    dudemoveal
    ongandmi
    nd
    yourownbusiness.
    Khayalooksathi
    m wit
    hhisey
    ebr
    owr
    aised
    thenl
    ooksatmyt r
    oll
    ey.
    Khay
    a:*
    chuckl
    es*
    okt
    hen.
    Hepl
    aceshi
    s2pl
    ast
    icsi
    nsi
    demyt
    rol
    l
    ey.
    Khay
    a:l
    et'
    sgobabe.
    Hesay st hatmai ntai
    ningast r
    aightfaceit
    's
    sochar mi ngi fyouaskme, hepushest he
    troll
    eytowar dshiscarwi thmewal king
    besideshi m notev enlookingbackatt he
    guy .
    ..
    igeti nsidet hecarwhi l
    ehepacks
    ev er
    ythingi ntheboott henheget sinside
    thedr i
    ver '
    sseatwhenhe' sdoneandst ar
    t
    theignition.
    Me:
    thanky
    ousomuch.
    Hi
    m:noneedt
    o,whowast
    hatguyany
    way
    ?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tev
    enknowhi sname,he'
    sbeen
    f
    oll
    owi
    ngmef orabout2weeksnow.
    Hi
    m:whydi
    dn'
    tyout
    ell
    me?
    It
    urnmyheadandl
    ookathi
    m wi
    thshock
    wri
    tt
    enal
    lovermyf
    ace.
    Me:
    uhm andsaywhat
    ?
    Him:
    youjustsai
    dhe'
    sbeenfoll
    owi
    ng
    you,
    whatifhe'
    ssometr
    aff
    icker
    ?
    Il
    ookdownaski
    ngmy
    sel
    fwhyhecar
    esso
    muchaboutme.
    Him:justbecauseIsai
    dweshoul
    dbe
    f
    riendsdoesn'tmeanIdonotcar
    eabout
    you.
    Waitisheangr
    ycausehi
    stonesounds
    angry
    .
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    ry.
    HesoundsupsetsoIdon'
    twantt
    oupset
    hi
    m evenmore.
    Hi
    m:nextt
    imesomet
    hingl
    i
    ket
    hishappens
    j
    ustl
    etmeknowok.
    Me:
    ok.
    Ther
    estoft
    her
    idei
    sfi
    l
    ledwi
    thcompet
    e
    si
    l
    enceat
    leastt
    her
    e'ssomemusi
    cpl
    ayi
    ng.
    Whenwegethomehepar ksoutsi
    det
    he
    gatebehi
    ndacabt
    hatjustpar
    ked
    too,
    Sbahl
    ecomesoutofit
    .
    Khay
    a:what
    'sshedoi
    ngher
    e?
    Me:
    Itot
    all
    yhav
    enoi
    dea.
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tl
    ikeher
    .
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Hi
    m:didyouseethewayshewasl
    ooki
    ngat
    mybrothery
    est
    erday
    ?
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    no.
    Him:*si
    ghs*
    Imaynotknowheri ntent
    ions
    yetbutwhatIknowisthatherintenti
    ons
    arenotgoodatall
    andt heymightleadto
    MbaliandMJf i
    ghti
    ng.
    Me:
    woah,
    butsheseemssoqui
    etandso
    i
    nnocent
    .
    Him:
    *laughs* thati
    swhatIt houghtt
    hefi
    rst
    ti
    meIsawy oubutthenyouopenedy our
    mouthy essest hethi
    ngsthatcameoutofit
    hadmer ephrasingaboutyoubeing
    i
    nnocent.
    Me:hey
    !*Isayt
    hathi
    tt
    inghi
    sshoul
    der
    pl
    ayful
    l
    y*
    Hi
    m:whati
    t'
    str
    ueev
    enMbal
    icanagr
    ee
    wi
    thme.
    Me:
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    I'
    minnocent
    .
    If
    oldmyar
    mspout
    ingf
    aci
    ngawayf
    rom
    hi
    m.
    Hi
    m:y
    oul
    ookcut
    ewheny
    ou'
    repout
    ing.
    Ibl
    ushandlookathi
    m,oureyeslocknoone
    say
    sanythi
    ng,i
    sitmeordidhejustget
    morehandsome?Heleansforwardwhil
    eI
    dothesameitmustbegravi
    ty,justaswe
    areaboutt
    okisssomeoneknocksont he
    windowwow.Khayacl
    earshi
    st hroatand
    rol
    ldownthewindow,
    i
    t'
    smysi ster.
    Her
    :TeeI
    '
    m goingoutandt
    her
    e'sagi
    rl
    i
    nsi
    dewho'sheref
    oryou.
    Shet
    henwal
    ksaway
    .
    Khay
    a:l
    etmehel
    pyouwi
    tht
    hepl
    ast
    ics.
    Wegetoutoft hecarandt akethepl ast
    ics
    i
    nsi de,
    thelookhe' sgivingSbahl ey oohy ou
    woul dswearhe' snotKhay acauseKhay ai
    s
    foreversmi l
    ingunl esshe'stalki
    ngabout
    somet hingser i
    ous,IoceskeI '
    m whyi she
    alway slaughingandsmi l
    i
    ngandt he
    answerIgotf rom him was" Lifeist ooshort
    tobeser i
    ousal l
    thet i
    me.So, I
    fyoucan' t
    l
    aughaty ourself,CALLME. I
    'LLLAUGHAT
    YOU. "He'sjustsomet hingelse.
    Khay
    a:Ihav
    etogetgoi
    ngnow.
    Me:
    thanksf
    ort
    her
    ide.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    any
    time.
    Hewal ksoutandSbahl
    ejoi
    nsmei
    nthe
    ki
    tchen.
    Me:
    hey
    .
    Her
    :hi
    ,
    howar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m goody
    our
    sel
    f?
    Her:
    I'
    m alsogood,
    Ihopey oudon'tmi ndme
    j
    ustpoppingupuninv i
    tedI '
    mjustbor edI
    bumpedi nt
    oMbaliearlierandaskedhert o
    hangoutbutunfort
    unat elyshealreadyhad
    pl
    answi t
    hMJshet hengav emey our
    addressandsaidIcouldcomehangout
    wit
    hy ou.
    Me:
    noi
    t'
    scool
    Idon'
    tmi
    nd*
    Isayt
    hat
    unpacki
    ngt
    hegr
    ocer
    y*
    Her
    :sohowl
    onghav
    eyouandKhay
    abeen
    dat
    ing?
    Me:
    whatmakesy
    out
    hinkwear
    edat
    ing?
    Her
    :thewayyout
    wol ookedateachot
    her
    bef
    orehelef
    tsai
    ditall
    .
    Me:
    youweret
    hereyester
    daywhenhet ol
    d
    metofi
    ndaboyfr
    iend,
    sodoy our
    eall
    ythi
    nk
    i
    fheismyboyf
    ri
    endhewoul dhavesai
    d
    t
    hat
    ?
    Her
    :ohy
    eaht
    hatt
    otal
    l
    ysl
    i
    ppedmymi
    nd.
    Me:itcool
    ,ohyoucanmakeyour
    selfa
    sandwichandy ou'
    l
    lfi
    ndsomet
    hingtodr
    ink
    i
    nt hefri
    dge.
    Her
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    ohk.
    Shest
    andsandmakesher
    sel
    fasandwi
    ch.
    Her
    :*clear
    shert
    hroat*sohowlonghav
    e
    Mbal
    i andMJbeent ogether
    ?
    Me:well
    theydatedforaboutaweekorso
    andsomet hi
    nghappenedbuttheydidn'
    t
    exact
    lybreakupsoIwouldsay1y earand
    somechange.
    Her
    :andt
    heyar
    eal
    readymar
    ri
    ed?
    Il
    ookatherwi
    thmyey
    ebr
    owr
    aised.
    Her:
    *cl
    earsherthr
    oat*whatdi
    dMJmean
    aboutsat
    isf
    yingancestor
    s?
    Me:
    i
    t'
    sal
    ongst
    ory
    .
    Her
    :ohohk*
    soundsdi
    sappoi
    nted*
    Me:
    plusi
    tisnotmypl
    acet
    otel
    l
    .
    Her:Iunder
    stand,
    coul
    dyout
    ell
    memor
    e
    aboutMJ.
    Whatt
    he?
    Me:areyoucrushi
    ngonMJ?
    *looki
    ng
    st
    raightather
    *
    Her:
    what?PshnoImeanI'
    mina
    r
    elat
    ionshi
    pwit
    hhiscousi
    nsono.
    Me:
    thatbet
    terbet
    het
    rut
    h.
    Wethenfal
    li
    ntocomplet
    esilence,
    okIt
    hink
    Ial
    sodon'
    tli
    kehershebett
    ernotmesswi t
    h
    mygir
    l'
    smarri
    age.
    ..Shel
    ooksatherphone.
    Her:
    uhm It
    hinkIshoul
    dgetgoi
    ngi
    tseems
    l
    ikeWandil
    eknockedoffatwor
    kear
    ly.
    Shel
    yi
    ngbutheyshe'
    sleav
    ing.
    Me:
    *fakesasmi
    l
    e*ohkby
    e.
    Shesmi
    l
    esandwal
    kout
    ,godf
    orbi
    d.
    Therestofmydayi skindofbori
    ngItr
    ied
    watchi
    ngsomet elevi
    sionbuti
    tboredmeI
    tr
    iedchatt
    ingbutZ'y
    andaandMbal iwere
    of
    fl
    inet
    her
    estofmychat
    swer
    ebor
    ing.
    "
    Heybaby
    "mom say
    swal
    ki
    ngi
    n.
    Me:
    hey
    ,you'
    rehomeear
    lyt
    oday
    .
    Her:
    Idon'
    tfeel
    sogoodsoIcameback
    homeearl
    y.
    Me:
    *wor
    ri
    ed*
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Her:
    don'tst
    ressyour
    sel
    fnow, i
    tjustacoldI
    passedbythechemistforsomepi l
    l
    sI'
    llj
    ust
    dri
    nkthem andtakeali
    ttl
    enap.
    Me:
    ok.
    Her
    :wher
    e'sy
    oursi
    ster
    ?
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    shewentout
    .
    Her:
    whydidIev
    enask,
    l
    etmegonap*
    she
    goestoherr
    oom*
    Sheleavesmestar
    ingattheT.Vwit
    hmy
    thought
    srunni
    ngwildasIthi
    nkabout
    ear
    li
    erwhenmeandKhay aalmost
    ki
    ssed,
    waitwhatifwekissed?Whatwoul
    d
    havehappenednext?Didhereal
    lymeani
    t
    whenhesaidweshoul dbefri
    ends?Orwas
    i
    thurttal
    ki
    ng?

    ~i
    nser
    t67~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Oneweekdownt hedr
    aneandMJandt he
    guyshaven'
    tfoundawaytogetBell
    aoutof
    thathel
    lhol
    ebuthedidsaytodayshe'
    l
    lbe
    heredarkorbl
    ueandIbeli
    evehim.
    SotodayI'
    mj ustchi
    l
    li
    ngindoor
    s,lat
    erIwil
    l
    gooveratZ'y
    anda'sImisshershameI..
    my
    phoneri
    ngs..
    it'
    sTashasheshouldbe
    wor
    kingt
    hisone/
    /
    Me:
    heybabe.
    Her
    :heyl
    ovehowar
    eyou?
    Me:
    I'
    m good,
    you?
    Her
    :I
    'm al
    sogood,
    how'
    smygodchi
    l
    ddoi
    ng
    i
    ssheokey ?
    Me:*giggl
    ing*
    yourgodchi
    l
    disfi
    nebabeand
    st
    opr aisi
    ngyourhopeshi
    ghthi
    nki
    ngit
    'sa
    gi
    rlcausenooneknows.
    Her:
    whycan'ty
    oujustgot
    othedoct
    orand
    f
    indouti
    fit
    'sagir
    lorboy?
    Me:meandMJwanti
    ttobea
    sur
    pri
    se*
    smil
    i
    ng*
    Her
    :aghsobor
    ing.
    I
    '
    m sosur
    ethatshe'
    srol
    l
    ingherey
    esonme.
    Me:
    shoul
    dn'
    tyoubewor
    kingr
    ightnow?
    Her:
    *si
    ghs*Ishoul
    dbutmymi
    ndi
    s
    ever
    ywhere.
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Her:
    *si
    ghs*
    rememberwhenItol
    dyouhow
    Khayawantedust
    obefri
    endsandal
    l.
    Ohsothisi
    saboutKhay
    a,t
    hisshoul
    dbe
    i
    nter
    est
    ing.
    Me:
    yeah.
    Her:soasyouknowt hatI'
    vebeent r
    yingto
    getoverhim andseehim onlyasaf r
    iend,
    it
    hasbeenhar dIwon'tli
    ebutbecauseIknew
    thatIwil
    lseehim al
    mostev eryt
    imeIhadt o
    beabi ggir
    landdeal wi
    thmyf eel
    ings.
    Me:
    wher
    e'sal
    loft
    hisgoi
    ng?
    Her:
    l
    astweekmeandKhay
    asor
    taki
    nda
    hadamoment.
    Me:
    *ey
    esal
    lout
    *uhm whatki
    ndofmoment
    ?
    Her
    :weal
    mostki
    ssed.
    Me:*
    smil
    ing*
    wow,wai
    tI'
    m st
    il
    lconf
    usedon
    whereal
    loft
    hisi
    sgoi
    ng.
    Her:
    Ithi
    nkthef
    eeli
    ngsI
    'vebeent
    ryi
    ngt
    o
    getr
    idofcamebackrunningt
    hemoment
    hesaidIl
    ookcute.
    Me:
    uh?
    Shenar
    rat
    est
    hewhol
    est
    oryf
    ormewow.
    Me:Ij
    ustsimplyt
    hinkthatyourfeel
    ingsf
    or
    Khayaneverwentanywheret heyhave
    al
    waysbeent her
    ejustthatyoutri
    ed
    i
    gnori
    ngthem.
    Her
    :sowhatshoul
    dIdonow?
    Me:t
    hatisuptoyoubabej
    ustdon'
    tover
    t
    hinkthi
    ngs,i
    fyoul
    oveKhayaasyousay
    st
    ickt
    othatdonotov
    ert
    hinkt
    hingsok?
    Her
    :*si
    ghs*
    ok,
    thanky
    ou.
    Me:
    any
    time.
    Her:
    ohI'
    vebeenmeani
    ngt
    otel
    lyouabout
    Sbahl
    e.
    Me:
    whatabouther
    ?she'
    sbeeni
    nandoutof
    myhousetheent
    ir
    eweek.
    Her
    :Idon'
    ttr
    usther
    .
    Me:meandy oubot
    hbabe,
    thewayherf
    ace
    l
    ightsupwhenImenti
    onMJy eyit
    hebi
    tch
    bett
    erplayf
    arfr
    om myhusband.
    Her
    :*l
    aughs*shebet
    tercausei
    thasbeena
    whi
    lesinceIhavesl
    appedsomeone.
    Il
    aughandmyphonev
    ibr
    ates.
    Me:
    gobackt
    owor
    kIhav
    etot
    aket
    hiscal
    l
    .
    Her
    :okbabe,
    l
    ovey
    ou.
    Me:
    l
    ovey
    out
    oo/
    /
    Idr
    opthecal
    landanswert
    hisi
    ncomi
    ng
    cal
    l
    //
    Me:
    Mbal
    enhl
    eMkhi
    zehel
    l
    o.
    "
    Oursur
    namesui
    tsy
    ouper
    fect
    lyy
    ouknow"
    I
    t'
    sKhay
    a,hemustbeusi
    nghi
    sof
    fi
    cephone.
    Me:*
    rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    ofcour
    sey
    ouwoul
    d
    sayt
    hat.
    Hi
    m:buti
    t'
    str
    uewi
    fey
    .
    Me:*giggl
    i
    ng* y
    eahyeahandwhati
    sitwi
    th
    peoplecall
    ingmetodayshoul
    dn'
    tyoube
    working?
    Hi
    m:whoel
    secal
    l
    edy
    ou?
    Me:
    Tasha.
    Hi
    m:ohy
    eahwhatdi
    dshewant
    ?
    Me:
    doIsenseasmi
    l
    eont
    hatt
    oneMr
    Mkhi
    ze?
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Hi
    m:*cl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *noy
    oursensei
    s
    wr
    ong.
    Me:y
    eahri
    ghtandnoIwi
    l
    lnott
    ell
    youwhat
    shewant
    ed.
    Hi
    m:comeont
    ell
    me.
    Me:noIwon'
    t,
    sowhyarey oucal
    l
    ingme
    whenyoushouldbewor
    king?
    Ihav
    eaf
    eel
    i
    ngi
    t'
    saboutTasha.
    Him:uhm I
    '
    m conf
    usedandIdon'
    tknow
    whattothi
    nkanymore,
    youknowthatIl
    ove
    Tashari
    ght?
    Me:
    yeah.
    Him:
    *sighs*
    I'
    mt heonewhosaidweshoul
    d
    befr
    iendsbutnowI'm st
    art
    ingt
    othi
    nk
    ot
    herwise.
    Me:
    sowhat
    'sconf
    usi
    ngy
    ouexact
    ly?
    Hi
    m:I
    ..
    I*
    sighsheav
    il
    y*Iser
    iousl
    yhav
    eno
    i
    dea.
    Me:*chuckli
    ng*Khayay ouobviouslylove
    Tashawebot hknowt hatsotellmewhy
    youwant edtobef r
    iendsinthefirstplace
    huh?
    Hi
    m:Idon'
    tknowmay bet
    hef
    actt
    hatshe
    woul
    dhaveneverpi
    ckedmei
    fAthiwasst
    il
    l
    al
    i
    ve.
    Me:
    ohhIseesoy
    ouspokeoutofhur
    t?
    Hi
    m:notexact
    ly.
    Me:yesyoudid,
    Tashalov
    esyouandi fAthi
    wasnev eri
    nthepict
    ureyout
    wowoul dbe
    toget
    herbutyouhavetounderstandwhat
    theyhadwithAthi
    ,
    iti
    ssomethingmost
    peoplewishtohaveandifAt
    hi neverlef
    tfor
    thattenderhewoul dhavediedst i
    ll
    ina
    rel
    ationshipwithTashaandy ouwouldhave
    neverbeeni nthepict
    uresodonotcompar e
    whaty ouandTashami ghthav etowhatshe
    hadwi thAthiorelseyouaregoi ngtoli
    ve
    yourwhol eli
    fetry
    ingtobet hebestfor
    Tashai fyou2endupt oget
    hercausey ou
    willbeconv i
    ncedthatyouar enotenough
    forherjustbecauseshewoul d'
    vechosen
    Athi i
    fhewasst il
    lal
    ive.
    Him:butI'
    m alr
    eadythi
    nki
    ngli
    kethatandI
    don'
    tthinkitwil
    lbeeasynott
    othinkl
    ike
    that
    .
    Me:*si
    ghing*
    Tashalov
    esandt
    hatshoul
    d
    countforsomet
    hingri
    ght
    ?
    Him:Iguess*
    sighs*ever
    ythingj
    ustseems
    complicat
    edtomeI '
    mtryingtofi
    nd
    answersforquesti
    onsIdonotev enknow
    my
    sel
    f.
    Me: y
    ouaret heonecompl i
    cati
    ngt hings
    here,y
    ouknowwhaty ouwantbuty ouar e
    beingindenialandletmewar ny ouabout
    fi
    ndinganswer s,l
    i
    feistoocomplicated,
    don'ttr
    ytofindanswer sbecause,wheny ou
    fi
    ndanswer s,l
    ifechangesthequest ions!So
    stopcomplicatingthi
    ngs.
    Him:*chuckles*onewouldsweart hatyou
    areolderthanmewheni tisactuall
    ythe
    otherwayar oundy er
    rrwheny ouopeny our
    mout hnothingbutsensecomesoutbut
    againiti
    ssai dthatever
    ythi
    nghappensf or
    areasonsoIguessmet ell
    ingTashawe
    shouldbef r
    iendswasf oracer t
    ainreason.
    Ichuckl
    eatt
    hat
    ,he'
    str
    yingt
    oconv
    ince
    himself
    .
    Me:
    yeahi
    tissai
    dthatev
    ery
    thi
    nghappens
    forareasonbutsometi
    mesther
    easoni
    s
    thatyouarest
    upidandyoumakebad
    decisi
    ons.
    Hi
    m:hahaha.
    Wer
    emai
    nsi
    l
    entf
    oramoment
    .
    Him:It
    hinkIwantt
    ogiv
    emeandTashaa
    chanceandseewherei
    ttakesus.
    Myl
    i
    pscur
    vesf
    ormi
    ngasmi
    l
    e.
    Me:
    nowy
    ou'
    ret
    alki
    ng.
    Hi
    m:*chuckles*
    Ihavetogonow,pl
    ease
    gr
    eetmyni eceornephewther
    eforme.
    Me:
    wil
    ldo.
    Hi
    m:ohandMbal
    i
    .
    Me:
    yeah.
    Hi
    m:t
    hanky
    ou.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    any
    time.
    Hi
    m:by
    e//
    WehangupandIgetr eadytogoto
    Zyanda'
    s,
    dressingupwheny ouhaveahuge
    tummyissohar ditt
    akeslongtoo..
    .anyway
    thecabisnowt akingmet hereIsomet i
    mes
    missBab'zondibutMJgothi m abet t
    erjob.
    MJsendsmeamessagewhi chleavesme
    smil
    ingandgr atef
    ul,i
    treadsli
    kethi
    s:-

    "Wear enowtakingBell
    aandhersi
    stertoa
    safeplacewhereherhusbandwon'
    tfind
    them unti
    lwedeal wi
    thhim"

    Atl
    eastshe'
    soutofthathel
    lholeand
    saf
    e,t
    hecabparksoutsi
    dethegat eIpay
    andgetoutandwaitf
    orMj t
    ohopoutt hen
    cl
    osethedoorasthecabdrivesaway .Mj
    l
    eadst hewaywel l
    itisnott hefir
    sttimewe
    comeher esoI 'm sur eheknowshe' sway
    around, aswear eappr oachingthegat e
    someoneput sacl othonmynosewhi le
    closingmymout hdr aggi ngmebackwar dsI
    trytoscr eam buti tisnouse, Mjquickly
    turnsandr unst omemyey esareslowly
    fail
    ingme, het r
    iest oat tackwhoev eris
    holdingmebuti tli
    kehecan' tfi
    ndabet ter
    angl etoattackf rom wi thouthurti
    ngme
    sincet heper sonhol dingmekeeps
    mov i
    ng,I'
    m qui cklyshov edinacarandt he
    doori sclosedasMj triestohopi nIhear
    him scr at
    chi ngt hecarasi tspeedof fand
    every t
    hingt urnsdar k.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Zyandawait
    simpat
    ient
    lyforMbali
    since
    shedidsendheramessagetel
    li
    ngher
    she'
    sonherwayalr
    eady.
    Z'
    yanda:di
    dshemaybechangeher
    mind?Letmecal
    lher
    .
    Shemakesacal lt
    oMbal ibutittakesher
    str
    aightt
    ovoicemail
    ,onet
    hi ngsheknows
    aboutMbalii
    sthatshenev ergoesagainst
    herwordsoshestartspanickingandcall
    s
    MJwhopi cksupafterafewr ings./
    /
    MJ:
    MrsZugo.
    I
    fitwasunderadif
    ferentoccasi
    onshe
    wouldbesmil
    ingatthat-
    shethought
    .
    Z'
    yanda:It
    hinksomethi
    nghappenedt o
    Mbalishewassupposet ogetherabout
    al
    mostanhouragobutshe' sstil
    lnother
    e
    andherphoneisoff*
    speakingfast*
    MJparksthecarf
    astashecoul
    dhearthe
    pani
    ckinZ'
    yanda'
    svoi
    cewhichmakeshim
    pani
    cktoo.
    MJ:may beshewentbackhometoget
    somethingyouknowhowf or
    get
    ful
    sheis
    thesedays.
    Het
    ri
    est
    oconv
    incehi
    msel
    f.
    Z'
    yanda:noMJIhaveabadf
    eel
    i
    ngso
    pl
    easelookf
    orher
    .
    MJ:
    okokI
    '
    m oni
    tri
    ghtnow/
    /
    MJdr
    opst
    hecal
    lmaki
    ngsur
    ehe'
    scal
    m.
    Tom:
    what
    'swr
    ongdude?
    Theywerecomingbackfr
    om dr
    oppingof
    f
    Bel
    laandhersi
    stersomewher
    esafe.
    MJ:Z'
    yandat
    hinkssomet
    hinghappenedt
    o
    Lenhl
    e.
    Tom:
    whywoul
    dshet
    hinkt
    hat
    ?
    MJ:she'
    ssupposedtobeatZ'y
    anda'
    snow
    butsheisn'
    tandherphonei
    soff.
    Tom:Sowhyar
    eyousocal
    mri
    ghtnow
    dude!
    ?
    MJbreat
    hsinandoutt
    henstar
    tsthecar
    whi
    l
    ecall
    ingKhayawhoanswersalmost
    i
    mmediatel
    y//
    Khay
    a:br
    oh
    MJ:
    Lenhl
    e'sphonei
    soffbutcoul
    dyout
    ry
    t
    otr
    aceitandgetherl
    astl
    ocati
    on.
    Khay
    a:why
    ?
    MJ:
    Khay
    a*hesay
    scal
    mly
    *
    Khay
    a:I
    '
    m oni
    t.
    /
    /
    Hedr
    ivesi
    nsi
    l
    encet
    il
    lheget
    shome,
    bot
    h
    hi
    m andTom rushinsideandlookfor
    Lenhl
    eever
    ywherebutdon' tf
    indher
    makingMJgocr azy.
    .Khayacall
    sandMJ
    cal
    mshimselfdownbef oreansweri
    ngthe
    cal
    l//
    MJ:
    whaty
    ougot
    ?
    Khay
    a:herl
    astl
    ocat
    ioni
    satZugo'
    s.
    MJ:
    butZ'
    yandasai
    dsheev
    ergott
    her
    e.
    Khay
    a:ar
    eyout
    ell
    i
    ngmet
    hatshe'
    smi
    ssi
    ng?
    MJ:
    *fr
    ust
    rat
    ed*
    letmegoatZugo'
    s.
    Khay
    a:wai
    tMJ.
    ./
    /
    MJdropsthecal
    lrunni
    ngt
    othecarwi
    th
    Tom behi
    nd.

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Islowlyopenmyey esandtrytorubthem
    butIcan'tmovemyar msI '
    mt i
    edupt oa
    chair,
    thedooropenswhil
    eI'mlooking
    aroundhopingtoseeMj thejaguarbut
    nopehe' snoti
    nhere.
    .t
    hiskidnappi
    ngt hi
    ng
    i
    sst arti
    ngtogetoldf
    ashionednow. .
    .aguy
    wear i
    ngasuitwalksi
    n.
    Hi
    m:wel
    lwel
    lwel
    ll
    ookwho'
    sfi
    nal
    l
    yawake.
    Me:
    *pi
    ssed*
    whot
    hef
    uckar
    eyou?
    Hi
    m:wuuuhf
    eist
    y,Il
    i
    ke*
    smi
    rki
    ng*
    Il
    ookathi
    m upanddown.
    Him:soyoumustbewonderi
    ngwhyI
    boughty
    ouherepri
    ncess.
    Il
    ookathi
    m wi
    thcol
    dey
    es.
    Hewalkst
    owardsmeandbendsdown
    r
    unni
    nghisfi
    nger
    sonmyfacenxx.
    Him:soyourhusbandt
    houghti
    twoul
    dbe
    besttot
    akemywi f
    eawayfr
    om meandI
    wantherback.
    Myeyesareal
    loutri
    ghtnow,sothi
    sisthe
    monster
    ?Whycan'tIof
    ferhelptosomeone
    wi
    thoutsomet
    hingbadhappening?

    ~i
    nser
    t68~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Senzo:socutewi
    fey*smir
    ks*ar
    ey ougoi
    ng
    totel
    lmewher eyourhusbandiskeepi
    ng
    mywi feorshoul
    dwedot hingsthehard
    way ?
    Mbal
    i
    :ev
    eni
    fIknewwher
    ehe'
    skeepi
    ngher
    whywoul
    dIt
    ell
    you?
    Senz
    o:DAMNITCAUSESHE'
    SMYWI
    FEFOR
    CHRISTSAKE!
    !
    Mbal enhlejustlooksathim cal
    mlywi t
    h
    coldey esandi nsomewayt hatpi
    sses
    Senzoof fcausehe'sexpecti
    nghert obe
    scared,intearsandsingingeveryt
    hinghe
    needst oknow.
    Mbali:
    fi
    rst
    lyyoudon'
    tdeserveher
    ,secondl
    y
    stopshouti
    ngatmeI'm notyourwifeeven
    myownhusbanddoesn' tshoutatmel i
    ke
    that
    ,thi
    rdl
    yI'
    m hungr
    y.
    Senzolooksatheramazed, heopenshi s
    mouthtosaysomet hi
    ngbutendsupnot
    sayi
    ngitinsteadhej ustwalksoutshaking
    hishead.Mbal enhlethinksofusingher
    powersbutqui cklyerasethatthoughtas
    shealsothinksofherbabybutt henagain
    shethinksthatusi ngthem justali
    ttlebit
    won'tdot oomuchdamage. ..
    shetriesto
    moveherhandwhi chisquiteaami ssion
    si
    nceshet i
    edup, shestopswhenshehear s
    someoneatt hedoor .
    ..
    shelistenscarefull
    y
    andhear sscratchingont hedoorleav i
    ng
    hersmi l
    ingsinceshe'ssur ethatit
    'sMj the
    j
    aguar.

    °
    Khay
    a°

    Me:*f
    rustr
    ated*
    thatvanhasnonumber
    pl
    ateoni t
    ,howam Isupposet
    otrace
    i
    t!
    ?*pacingupanddown*
    Zugo:
    thi
    sisf
    rust
    rat
    ing,
    whocoul
    ditbe?
    Weareal
    l(excludingMJ)atZugo'
    s
    wat
    chi
    ngthef ootageofwhenMbalenhl
    e
    wast
    akenbutt
    hef
    oot
    agei
    sn'
    thel
    pingatal
    l
    .
    Chri
    s:couldi
    tbethegi
    rlwhat
    everhername
    i
    s,Mbali'
    scousi
    n?
    Tom:
    i
    tisal
    sopossi
    ble.
    Me:butthi
    sgir
    l'
    smi ssi
    oni
    stoki
    ll
    Mbaliso
    whywoul dsheki
    dnapher?Unl
    essshehas
    changedherstr
    ategy.
    Wehearsomeoner oaroutl
    oudwhi
    lesome
    t
    hingsbreak.
    ..
    wel
    lIalr
    eadyknowi
    tis
    MJ,theguysl
    ookatme.
    Me:
    What
    ?*act
    ingdumb*
    Tom:whenMJsawt hefootagehewalked
    outofherewit
    hv ei
    nspoppinginhisf
    ace
    andwe'vebeenhearingt
    hingsbreaki
    ngand
    somestrangeroar,
    i
    sheok?
    Me:
    yeahhe'
    sfi
    ne.
    Zugo:
    may
    beweshoul
    dgocheckuponhi
    m.
    Me:
    nononot
    hati
    snotagr
    eati
    dea.
    Chri
    s:dudehecoul
    dhur
    thi
    msel
    fwehav
    eto
    checkuponhim.
    Me:weshouldat
    leastl
    ethi
    m cal
    m down
    causetr
    ustmeyoudonotwantt oseenor
    beclosetohi
    m whenheisangry
    .
    Tom:
    pshwhat
    'st
    hewor
    sthecoul
    ddot
    ous?
    Me:
    Youdonotwantt
    oknow.
    Zugo:wel
    lwhatev
    erhei
    sbr
    eaki
    nghebet
    ter
    payforit
    .
    SoIkindal
    ockedupmybr ot
    herinthe
    basement,
    cany oubel
    ievethatwecanhear
    hi
    m whenwear eupstair
    sasi fhe'
    sinthe
    nextr
    oom butmay betheguysbeli
    evethat
    he'
    snextdoor.
    Chri
    s:wai
    tIj
    ustr
    emember
    edsomethi
    ng,
    Khayayouremembert
    hef
    il
    eyougaveme.
    Me:
    theonewi
    thBel
    l
    a'si
    nfor
    mat
    ion?
    Chr
    is:
    yeah.
    Me:y
    eahwhataboutt
    hatfi
    le?Causethere
    wasnot
    hingt
    herebesi
    deshername,where
    shewor
    ks,st
    aysandherhusbandsinfo.
    Chr
    is:
    andwhenItol
    dyout
    hatwasf
    ishy
    whatdi
    dyousay?
    Me:thatherhusbandisprobablyagangst
    er
    behi
    ndt hesuitwhichcouldexplai
    nwhyher
    prof
    ilei
    ncludi
    nghishast oomanywal l
    s.
    Idon'
    tgetwher
    ehe'
    sgoi
    ngwi
    tht
    his.
    Tom:Chr
    ismar
    nwher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ngwi
    th
    thi
    s?
    SeeI
    '
    m nott
    heonl
    yonei
    nthedar
    k.
    Chr
    is:
    guy
    sser
    iousl
    y?
    Zugo:
    ser
    iousl
    ywhat
    ??
    Chr
    is:
    wej
    ustt
    ookhi
    swi
    fef
    rom hi
    m.
    Me,
    ZugoandTom cuss.
    Tom:shi
    titcoul
    dbehi
    m,remembert
    hatday
    youtal
    kedtoBell
    aandshesai
    dshe'
    s
    prot
    ecti
    ngyou.
    Khaya:andMbalididtel
    lusthathekil
    led
    Bell
    a'
    spar entswhenshetri
    edtor un
    away,f
    uckweneedt ofi
    ndMbal i
    fast
    .*f
    reakingout
    *

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Senzo:
    gocheckuponher,
    I
    'l
    lseeher
    tomorr
    owmor ni
    ng,
    Iwanttogorest
    .
    Guy
    :sur
    ebozza.
    Senzowalksouttohiscaranddri
    vesout
    goingt
    ohishouse,He'
    skeepingMbaliat
    oneofhishousesthatnooneclosetohi
    m
    knows.
    Theguywal kst owar dsthebasementt o
    checkuponMbal iwhoi sst i
    llwideawake
    notiredatal l
    .Heunl ockst hedoorandwal k
    i
    ngi vingMj achancet oal sowal kinMbal i
    smilesbr i
    ghtassheseesMj ,
    Mj j
    umpson
    theguy 'slegdev ouri
    ngi thescr eamsi n
    agonycat chi ngt heat t
    entionoft heot her
    guyswhor undownt oseewhat '
    sgoi ngon
    withtheirguns, theguyt r
    iest oholdwher e
    hefeel spai nbutf reaksoutwhenhef eel
    s
    somet hingf urywhenheact ual
    lycannot
    seeany t
    hing,hehol dswhat everitisand
    thr
    owsi tagai nstthewal l.
    Guy2:
    what'
    sgoi
    ngonman?Wehear
    dyour
    scr
    eamingfr
    om upst
    air
    s.
    Guy 1:
    *gr
    oans* Idon'
    tknowman,
    Ithinkt
    his
    placeishauntedorsomethi
    ngcauseIjust
    threwsomet hi
    ngIcannotseeagainstt
    he
    wal l
    .
    Theyal
    ll
    ookar
    oundt
    hinki
    nghe'
    scr
    azy
    .
    Guy
    1:guy
    sI'
    mtel
    l
    ingt
    het
    rut
    hIswear
    .
    Guy3:l
    ookmanletjustgoupst
    air
    ssowe
    canlookint
    oyourwoundbeforeitget
    s
    i
    nfectedorsomethi
    ng.
    Theyhel
    phim walkupstai
    rsmaki
    ngsure
    theyl
    ockthedoorgi
    vingMbaliachancet
    o
    focusonMj.
    Mbal
    i
    :Mj
    !Buddymmmm.
    Shefeel
    spainonherheadwhi
    chmeansMj
    hur
    tedhisheadwhenhewasthrown
    agai
    nstt
    hewal
    l
    .
    Mbali
    :
    comeonbuddywehav
    etogetoutof
    her
    e.
    Mjsl
    owlyrai
    seshisheadwhichi
    sbleedi
    ng
    i
    tgotacutfr
    om thenail
    thati
    sonthewall.
    Mbal
    i
    :ohmygodMj
    you'
    rebl
    eedi
    ng.
    Hesl owlytr
    iestostandupbuthisbody
    fai
    lshim,hefall
    sbackdownmaki ngMbali
    shedat earwatchingMjinsuchpain.Mbal
    i
    real
    izesthatMj i
    sweaksoev enifthey
    breakoutofher eshewon'tbeabletocar
    ry
    him.
    Mbali
    :buddyIhaveanideabutit'
    s
    ri
    sky*
    sighs*pl
    easeusethelit
    tl
    eener
    gyy
    ou
    haveandcomet omepl ease.
    Mjtr
    iestost
    andupagai
    nbutfai
    l
    s,
    f
    rust
    rati
    ngMbali
    herf
    rust
    rat
    ioni
    sfi
    l
    ledwi
    th
    alotofangerwhichl eadstotheroom
    tr
    emblingandsomet hingsfal
    li
    ngand
    breaki
    ng,whensher eali
    zeswhat's
    happeningshequicklycalmsherselfdown
    doingsomebr eat
    hingexer ci
    ses.
    ~~
    Guy
    1:di
    dyouguy
    sfeel
    that
    ?
    Guy
    4:*
    conf
    used*
    feel
    what
    ?
    Guy1justsi
    ghsandsaynot
    hingcauset
    hey
    mightthi
    nkhe'
    sevenmorecrazi
    er.
    ~~
    Mbalenhl
    eopensherey
    esaft
    ercal
    ming
    her
    selfdownandsmil
    eswhensheseesMj
    i
    nfrontofher
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :ohbuddyy
    oudi
    dit
    .
    Mj
    '
    slegs/
    pawsar
    efeel
    i
    ngwobbl
    ysi
    ncehe
    doesn'
    thav
    est
    rengt
    htoev
    enst
    and.
    Mbal i
    :
    soher e'
    smypl ananddoexact lyasI
    sayok* si
    ghs*I'm goi
    ngt ogiveyouallme
    str
    engthandener gyandwhent hatdoor
    opensy oudon' tatt
    ackany onecausey ou
    mightgethur tagain,whatIwanty outodo
    i
    sr unningasf astasy oucan,f
    indMJand
    l
    eadhi m backher e..
    .yourpawsneedt obe
    dir
    tysohecanseey ourt r
    acks.
    Mbalii
    sjustgl
    adatt
    hefactt
    hatMjcan
    hearherorel
    seshewoul
    dbegoingcrazy
    ri
    ghtnow.
    Shel owersherheadmeet i
    ngMj'sfury
    bloodyheadhalfwaylinki
    ngthei
    r
    foreheads,Mbal
    enhlestart
    stal
    ki
    ngi na
    forei
    gnlanguagef eel
    i
    ngenergybeing
    suckedoutofherbodyt oMj'
    swhenshe' s
    doneshe' scompletel
    yweakandt hi
    rstyand
    hungr
    y.Shel
    ooksathert
    ummywi
    tht
    ear
    s
    fal
    l
    ingdown.
    Mbal
    i:
    hangi
    ntherebaby,
    daddywi
    l
    l
    come*
    shesaysthatf
    aint
    ly*
    ~~
    Guy
    2:hast
    hegi
    rlat
    e?
    Guy
    3:Idon'
    tthi
    nkso.
    Guy
    2:f
    orf
    ucksakeshe'
    spr
    egnantshehas
    t
    oeat.
    Guy4:
    youandyoursof
    thear
    twi
    l
    llendy
    oui
    n
    t
    roubl
    eyouknow.
    Guy
    2:t
    hebossdoesn'
    thav
    etoknow.
    Guy
    5:dudeno.
    Guy
    2:whati
    fshedi
    esoutofhunger
    ?
    Guy3:
    whydidyouchooset
    hiski
    ndofwork
    i
    nthefir
    stpl
    aceknowingv
    erywell
    thaty
    ou
    ar
    esof
    thear
    ted?
    Guy2:
    you'
    reaski
    ngmestupi
    dquest
    ions
    whenweshouldbegoi
    ngdowntofeedher
    .
    Guy
    3:I
    '
    m noti
    n.
    Theot hersmindthei
    rbusinessnotl ooki
    ng
    athim,hesighsandgodi shupatt he
    kit
    chent henheadsdownt othebasement ,
    themomentheopenst hedoorMj runsout
    butwhenhe' supstai
    rshedoesn'tf i
    ndaway
    outoft hehouse,
    hescratchesthedoor
    getti
    ngt heatt
    enti
    onfrom theotherguy s
    theyfi
    xt hei
    rgunsgoingtowardst hedoor
    andopeni tgivi
    ngMj achancetor unout .
    Guy
    3:nxxt
    her
    e'snot
    hingher
    e.
    Meanwhil
    eguy2grabsachai
    randseat
    sin
    f
    rontofMbal
    ifeedi
    ngher
    .
    ~i
    nser
    t69~

    Khaya:
    hej
    ustcameoutofnowher
    efuck
    he'
    sgood.
    Zugo:
    Isaywefoll
    owhi
    mtomorr
    ow
    morni
    ngmay behewi
    ll
    gotowher
    ehe'
    s
    keepi
    ngher
    .
    Khay
    a:i
    t'
    sal
    readyt
    omor
    rowwhi
    chi
    stoday
    .
    Tom:doest
    hismeanwewon'
    tsl
    eepi
    ng
    *sul
    ks*
    Zugo:
    *rol
    l
    shi
    sey
    es*
    obv
    iousl
    y.
    Chri
    s:may
    beweshouldgocheckuponMJ
    now,t
    hebreaki
    nghassubsi
    ded.
    Khaya:
    keeptr
    yingt
    oret
    racehi
    smov
    ement
    fort
    odayI'
    l
    lgocheckonMJ.
    Theynodwhi
    l
    eKhay
    awal
    ksoutheadedt
    o
    t
    hebasement
    .

    "I
    t'
    sagoodt hingthatZ'y
    andaandbaby
    Kiaraarenothere"Khayathoughtt
    o
    himself
    ,ashe'
    saboutt otouchthedoorto
    unlockithehearsagruntheimmedi at
    ely
    turnsgoingbackupstair
    s.
    Tom:
    i
    sheok?
    Khaya:y
    eahyeahhe'
    sfi
    ne,
    thatl
    i
    ttl
    eworkout
    hewasdoingtookhi
    senergysohe'sst
    il
    l
    rest
    ingabitf
    ornow.
    Tom:*sul
    ks*ohsoheget
    stor
    estwhi
    l
    ewe
    can'
    t?I'
    m al
    soti
    red.
    Zugo:
    fr
    om doi
    ngwhat
    ?
    Tom:
    *smi
    rks*f
    rom f
    ..
    Zugo:
    youknowwhatdon'
    ttel
    lme,
    wit
    hthat
    smi
    rkonIdon'
    twantt
    oknowany
    mor
    e.
    Khay
    a:*
    chuckl
    es*
    sti
    l
    lnot
    hing?
    Chr
    is:
    *si
    ghs*
    not
    hing.
    Khay
    a:mor
    ningi
    tis.
    ~

    Mbal enhlel
    ooksatt heguyinfr
    ontofher
    feedingher,shecan'thel
    pbutwonderwhy
    he'sdoingsocausehehear dSenzogivi
    ng
    i
    nst r
    uctionsnottodosobutt henagain
    she'sgratefulcauseiti
    sgiv
    ingalit
    tl
    e
    energy.
    Mbal
    i
    :thanks.
    Guy
    :l
    etmegogety
    ousomewat
    ert
    odr
    ink.
    Hewal
    ksoutandcomesbackaft
    era
    momentwi
    thaglassofwat
    erandastr
    aw.
    Guy
    :her
    eyougo.
    Mbal
    idr
    inkst
    il
    lthegl
    assi
    sempt
    y.
    Mbal
    i
    :agai
    nthanky
    ou.
    Theguynodsput
    ti
    ngt
    hechai
    rbackwher
    e
    i
    twas.
    Mbal
    i
    :whyar
    eyoudoi
    ngt
    his?
    Guy
    :Icoul
    dn'
    tj
    ustl
    ety
    oust
    arv
    etodeat
    h.
    Mbal
    i
    :youdi
    dhearwhaty
    ourbosssai
    dri
    ght
    ?
    Guy:
    *si
    ghs*
    Idi
    dandhopef
    ull
    yhewon'
    tfi
    nd
    out
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :butwhy
    ?
    Guy :
    l
    ookt hi
    sisnott
    hejobIwant
    edtoend
    updoi ng,
    thi
    sisnott
    heguyIwantedt
    obe,
    tr
    ustmeIdonotsuppor twhatMrZondi
    is
    doingbutaguyhast odowhataguyhasto
    do*shrugs*
    Mbal
    enhl
    elooksathi
    m st
    udy
    inghi
    m.
    Mbal
    i
    :whydoy
    oudot
    hiski
    ndofj
    ob?
    Guy:i
    twas/istheonl
    yjobIcouldgetsinceI
    droppedoutofschooldoinggrade12
    causeIhadt obeamot herandafatherto
    myy oungersibl
    i
    ngs.
    Mbal
    i
    :ory
    oucoul
    d'
    vef
    ini
    shedy
    ourgr
    ade12.
    Guy:
    stayi
    nginschoolwasnotgoi
    ngt o
    br
    ingfoodtoourtabl
    e,st
    ayi
    nginschool
    wasnotgoingtodressusasanolder
    br
    otherIhadtodosomet hi
    ng.
    Mbalicoul
    dseethathewasget
    ting
    emotional
    andshecouldal
    soseethathe'
    s
    nothi
    ngbutaniceguyhust
    li
    ngforhi
    s
    famil
    y.
    Mbal
    i
    :wher
    ear
    eyourpar
    ent
    s?
    Guy
    :theypassedon.
    Shecouldn'ti
    magi net
    hepai nhemusthave
    wentthroughwi t
    hhissibli
    ngs,
    sheremai
    ns
    quietnotknowingwhatt osay.Af
    terawhi
    le
    theguyspoke.
    Guy
    :Ishouldgoupnow,Iknowthechair
    i
    sn'
    tcomf or
    tabl
    ebutt
    rytogetsomer est
    .
    Hewal
    kst
    othedoor
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :wai
    t!
    Het
    urns.
    Mbal
    i
    :Idi
    dn'
    tgety
    ourname.
    Guy
    :*smi
    l
    es*
    Siy
    avuy
    a.
    Mbali
    :Siy
    avuyaifIgetoutofher eIwoul
    d
    l
    iketohelpyougobackt oschool andI'
    ll
    makesur eyoursibl
    ingsnevergotobed
    hungryandthattheyarewelltakencare
    of,
    youlookyoungy ousti
    llhaveabright
    fut
    ureaheadofy ou.
    Siyal
    ooksathershockedanduncer
    tai
    nat
    thesameti
    me.
    Siy
    a:youdon'
    tmeanthat
    ,pl
    uswher
    ewi
    l
    l
    yougetal
    loft
    hatmoney?
    Mbali
    :don'
    twor
    ryaboutt
    hat
    ,youhav
    edone
    agooddeedforaA.Qandshehastothank
    yousomeway *
    hervoi
    cewasabitdif
    fer
    ent
    *
    Siy
    a:what
    'sanA.Qandwhydoesy
    ourv
    oice
    soundsli
    kethat
    ?
    Mbalenhleshakesherheadcomi
    ngbacky
    o
    hersenses.
    Mbal
    i
    :d.
    .
    "Dude,
    doyouknowhowlongyou'
    vebeen
    downhere?Doyouwanttogetusal
    lki
    ll
    ed?
    Si
    ya:
    nomanIwasj
    ust
    ..
    Guy
    3:shutupl
    et'
    sgo.
    Siyasi
    ghsfol
    lowi
    ngtheotherguyslocki
    ng
    thedoorbehi
    ndthem..
    ..
    yenahe'syoung
    shamehe's19butbyjudgingbyhi
    sbody
    youwouldthi
    nkhe'sabout21.
    Mbalenhl
    efeel
    sherbabyki
    cki
    ngmaki
    ng
    herl
    etoutafai
    ntsmil
    e.
    Mbal
    i
    :hangi
    nther
    ebaby
    ,daddyi
    scomi
    ng.
    —

    Ear
    lyhour
    sint
    hemor
    ning¶

    Khay
    a:t
    hisguywill
    probabl
    yleav
    eany
    momentfrom now,l
    etmegocheckupon
    mybrot
    her.
    Hegoesdownt othebasementagainand
    beforedoi
    ngany t
    hinghefi
    rst
    lyl
    istensif
    there'
    sanyscarysoundcomingfrom in
    thereandlucki
    l
    ythere'
    snonebuttobesur e
    heknocks.
    Khay
    a:MJ.
    *
    *si
    l
    ence*
    *
    Khay
    a:br
    oh.
    MJ:
    yeah.
    Hesay
    sthatwi
    thahor
    sedr
    yvoi
    ce,
    l
    owl
    y.
    Khay
    a:ar
    eyouok?
    MJ:
    yeah.
    Khaya:
    *signsinreli
    ef*
    lookwethi
    nkt
    hatthe
    Senzoguyi stheonewhot ookMbal
    isowe
    arewai
    tingf orhi
    mt omakehismovesowe
    cantai
    lhim,soI '
    m goi
    ngtoopenupsothat
    wecangett oi t
    .
    MJ:
    ok*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *Khay
    a.
    Khaya:
    *taki
    ngoutt
    hekeyf
    rom hi
    spocket
    *
    yah.
    MJ:Ineedclot
    hes,
    getmesomet
    hingf
    rom
    Zugo'
    sr oom.
    Khay
    a:*
    chuckl
    es*
    arey
    out
    ell
    i
    ngmet
    haty
    ou
    ar
    enaked?
    MJ:
    Khay
    aMar
    n!Ther
    e'snot
    ime.
    Khayasmil
    esheadingtothemainroom and
    grabswhathethi
    nksisgoingt
    ofitMJand
    headbackbutbumpst oZugo.
    Zugo:
    sor
    ryb.
    .ar
    ethosemycl
    othes?
    Khaya:
    yeahMJneedssomethingtowear
    andIcan'
    tdr
    ivet
    ohishouseforjust
    cl
    othes.
    Zugo:
    what'
    swrongwit
    htheonehewas
    weari
    ng?Mcm anyway
    *si
    ghs*i
    twasa
    set
    up.
    Khay
    a:*
    conf
    used*
    whatdoy
    oumean?
    Zugo:
    henev
    ercameback,
    hesetthewhol
    e
    thi
    nguptomakeust
    hinkhecamebackhe
    knewweweregoi
    ngtosuspecthi
    m.
    Khaya:
    damn!
    !*
    punchesai
    r*he'
    smaking
    sur
    ewecan'tt
    racehi
    m.*f
    rustr
    ated*
    Khayatakest
    heclot
    hestoMJandhehasa
    shockedexpr
    essi
    onwhenheseest
    he
    basementinatot
    alwreck.
    Khaya:
    howarewegoingt
    oexpl
    aint
    oZugo
    abouthi
    sbasement
    ?
    MJ:si
    ncewear
    eleav
    ingr
    ightnowIwi l
    lcal
    l
    somepeopl
    etocomeandsortitout
    .
    Khay
    a:*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *aboutt
    hat
    .
    MJl ooksatKhayaasKhayatel
    lshim about
    thesetupandsurpr
    isi
    ngl
    yMJj ustnods
    thentheywalkuptotheguyswhoar enow
    atthelounge.
    Tom:MJy ouhavetost
    aystrongwewil
    lfi
    nd
    her,
    youreyesar
    eredIcantelly
    ouwere
    cry
    ingyouhavetobestrongthi
    sisnot
    ime
    tocry.
    MJj ustnodsknowi
    ngverywel
    lhewasn't
    cr
    yinghiseyesareonl
    yredduetoanger
    .
    MJ: Ihav
    etogoandst artlooki
    ngf orher
    somewher ecauseIcan' tstayhereanddo
    nothingorelseIwil
    lloseitandIsweari fhe
    dareslayasi ngl
    efi
    ngeronherev ena
    pinkieIwil
    lmakesurei tisthelastthi
    nghe
    touches*breathi
    ngheav y*
    Khay
    a:ai
    MJcal
    m downdon'
    tdot
    hatt
    ome.
    Chr
    is:
    guy
    sIdon'tknowi
    fI'
    m cr
    azybutI
    hav
    ebeenhear
    ingsomesortofscr
    atchi
    ng.
    Theyallr
    emainqui
    ettoheari
    fChri
    sisri
    ght
    andtheyheari
    tcomingfr
    om thef
    ront
    door
    ,Zugostandsupgoingt
    oopent
    hedoor
    andMj t
    hejaguarrunsi
    nwit
    hhi
    sdir
    typaws
    l
    eavi
    ngsomet r
    ail
    .
    Zugo:
    Whatt
    he?
    ?
    Mjthejaguarr
    unst
    oMJandst
    art
    spushi
    ng
    hi
    slegs.
    Tom:
    aret
    hoseMj
    '
    str
    ail
    s?
    MJ:i
    t'
    shi
    m,he'
    spushi
    ngmyl
    egsIdon'
    t
    knowwhy?
    Khay
    a:shoul
    dn'
    thebewi
    thMbal
    i
    ?
    Chr
    is:
    may
    behe'
    str
    yingt
    otel
    lussomet
    hing.
    Mj
    thej
    aguarkeeppest
    eri
    ngMJt
    omov
    e.
    MJ:
    Ithi
    nkheknowswher
    eLenhl
    eis.
    Theguy
    sst
    andup.
    Tom:
    alr
    ightl
    et'
    sgot
    hen.
    MJ:
    arey
    oubei
    ngser
    iousTom?
    Tom:
    uh?
    MJ:al
    lofusherecan'tseeMJandi
    fIal
    low
    hi
    mt okeeppushingmyl egswewi
    l
    lbe
    goi
    ngwithareall
    yslowpace.
    Tom:
    whataboutt
    het
    rai
    l
    s?
    MJ:i
    t'
    sst
    il
    ldar
    kout
    sideIdoubtt
    hatwe'
    l
    l
    seet
    hem.
    Khay
    a:myhouseisnotf arf
    rom her
    eletme
    gogetatr
    ackerthatwewi l
    lputonhimto
    makethi
    ngseasierpl
    uspeopl ewon'
    tseea
    fl
    oat
    ingt
    rakercauseit
    'ssti
    l
    l dar
    k.
    Khayar
    ushesoutl
    eav
    ingbot
    hMJspaci
    ng
    upanddown.
    ~

    Hespl
    ashescol
    dwat
    eronher
    .
    Senz
    o:wakeywakey
    .
    Mbal
    enhl
    eopensherey
    esgaspi
    ngf
    orai
    r.
    Senz
    o:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    greaty
    ou'
    reawake.
    Heplacesthebucketonthefl
    oor,
    Mbali
    l
    ooksatt heol
    dwatchont hewall
    sti
    l
    l
    br
    eathingheavyandseesthati
    t'
    ssti
    l
    learl
    y.
    Senzo:Ihopeyouenj oyedyourbathcause
    you'l
    lbebathi
    ngliket hi
    severysi
    ngledayti
    ll
    Igetmywi feback,nowl etmestret
    chmy
    handmuscl esI'
    l
    lbedoi ngalotofslappi
    ng
    today.
    Hewal
    ksar
    oundst
    ret
    chi
    nghi
    shands.
    Senzo:yourhusbandandhi sfr
    iendst hought
    I
    'm dumb* chuckles*theywil
    lneverfi
    ndy ou,
    I
    wil
    lonlytakey oubackwhent heybringmy
    wif
    ebacksaf eandsound, andIwon'tev en
    bothercontactingthem andtell
    ingthem
    whattodocauset
    heyalr
    eadyknowwhatto
    doandtheyhavemycontactdet
    ail
    sandmy
    addr
    essIknow.
    Mbal
    i
    :myhusbandwi
    l
    lfi
    ndme.
    Shesai
    dthatwi
    thconf
    identmaki
    ngSenz
    o
    l
    aughatherhar
    d.
    Senzo:keept
    ell
    ingyourselft
    hatprincess,t
    o
    makey ourhusband'sj
    obeasi erj
    usttellme
    wheremywi feisthenI
    'llgofetchher
    myselfthenl
    ety ougo.
    Mbal
    i
    :Ihav
    etol
    dyou,
    Idonotknowwh.
    ..
    .
    Shedidn'
    tfi
    nishthatsent
    enceasshef
    elta
    hotsl
    aponherf ace.
    Senz
    o:*f
    umingwit
    hanger
    *keeplyi
    ngt
    ome
    andI
    'l
    ldofarwor
    sethanaslap.
    Mbal
    i
    :I
    'mt
    ell
    i
    ngt
    het
    rut
    hId.
    .
    Thi
    st i
    meapunchlandedonhercheek
    makingMbal
    iscr
    eam inpai
    n.
    Senz
    o:STOPLYI
    NG!
    !YOUKNOW WHERE
    HEKEPTTHEM!
    Mbali
    sobbedsil
    ent
    lyl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m not
    say
    inganyt
    hing.
    Senz
    o:i
    fyouwantt
    oremai
    nqui
    ett
    rustme
    youwil
    lbepi
    ssi
    ngmeoff.
    Mbalidi
    dn'
    tknowwhattosaytotheguy
    causeshehonest
    lydi
    dn'
    tknowwhereBell
    a
    wasnotthatshewoul
    dtel
    lhim ev
    enifshe
    knew.
    Senz
    o:Tal
    kDamni
    t!
    !
    Mbali
    :whatshoul
    dIsaycauseIser
    iousl
    ydo
    notknow.
    Anot
    herpunchlandsonherot
    hercheek
    maki
    ngherscream agai
    n.
    Thedoorki cksopenandt heangr yMJ
    stoodt herebr eathingheav ywithv ei ns
    almostv isibl
    eonhi sface,Senzot ur nsf ast
    l
    ookingathi m wi thshock, shockonhowt he
    heckdi dhef indhi m.MJsl owlytur nshi s
    headf rom Senzot olookatLenhl ewhenhe
    seesherf acehi sanger
    escalates,Mbal enhl eseest heclot hesMJi s
    wearingget t
    ingsmal leronhi sbodyandhi s
    skinslowl ychangi ngcol our ,
    Whi leKhay a
    runsdownst airst ochecki fMJf oundMbal i
    heseesMJst andingi nf rontoft hedoor
    andhekeepsr unni ngt ohi m, whenhe' s
    3stepsawayf rom hi m heseest hathei s
    nothisnor mal sizehef all
    sonhi sbum as
    heseest hecol ourofhi sski nandal sohi s
    nail
    selongat inghequi cklyst andsup
    runningbackup.Lenhl ecl osesherey esnot
    wantingt oseeherhusbandi nthisst ate
    whil
    eSenzostandsstil
    lwi
    thfrightr
    eadyto
    peehimsel
    f,Mjtakesfewstepsandgr abs
    Senzowit
    hhisshirtt
    henhedr agshim
    upst
    air
    sgrunti
    ng.

    ~i
    nser
    t70~

    Theguyswereupstairspoi
    nti
    ngt
    heirguns
    att
    he5dudeswhohel pedi
    nkeepi
    ng
    Mbalenhl
    easahost agewhenoutofno
    whereKhayashowedupr unni
    ng.
    Chr
    is:
    what
    'swr
    ong?Wher
    e'sMbal
    i
    ?
    Zugo:
    andMJ.
    Khay
    a:*
    cat
    cheshi
    sbr
    eat
    h*he.
    .she.
    .
    He'
    sdi
    stur
    bedbyar
    eal
    l
    yloudgr
    unt
    .
    Tom:
    what
    'st
    hat
    ?CauseMj
    thej
    aguari
    s
    r
    ightnextt
    ome.
    Khaya:
    *fr
    eaki
    ngout
    *weneedt
    ogetoutof
    her
    e.
    Tom:
    what
    ?Why
    ?
    Khay
    a:weneedt
    ogetoutofher
    e.
    Well i
    t '
    skindoftool atesinceMJorshoul dI
    sayRedTi gershowsupwi ththescr eaming
    andki ckingSenz o,ev ery
    onegoesnumb
    l
    ooki ngatt hebeasti nfrontoft hem
    Khay a'sbodyshi verswi thf r
    ightseeinghis
    brothery etagainliket hismostoft hetime
    whenheget sreall
    yangr yhej uststayfar
    awayf rom hi
    mt oav oidseeinghi ml ike
    thi
    s...Tom'sbodyal soshi verswi t
    hf r
    ighthe
    dropst hegunhe' shol di
    ngasi thit
    st he
    fl
    oori tgoesof fshoot i
    ngt heguywhohe
    waspoi nti
    ngatinhi sleg,hescr eamsi n
    painbutnoonepay sat tenti
    ont ohim as
    theyareal lnumbwat chi
    ngthisRed
    monst erinf r
    ontoft hem.MJt akesastep
    forwardandev er
    yoneseemst ogaint
    heir
    consciousandmov ebackatt hesame
    ti
    me,MJt akesanot herstept
    hengoesup
    thestairstowhatl ooksl i
    kethemainroom
    andthr owsSenzoont hebedasifhe'
    sa
    pieceofpaper .
    Senzo:
    *cr
    ying*
    lookal
    lIwant
    edwasmywi
    fe
    I
    'm sor
    ry.
    MJst andssti
    ll
    notmov ingremi
    niscing
    aboutthestat
    ehef oundhiswif
    eatand
    feel
    shisangerescalat
    ingevenmor e,Senzo
    star
    tsprayi
    ngseeingthathemightnot
    comeoutal i
    veinthi
    sroom.
    Senzo:dearfatherIknowthatIwasnever
    yourchil
    d,Iknowt hatInev
    erbeli
    evediny
    ou
    butpleasesav emef rom t
    hismonster
    proveyour
    selftomet haty
    ouaret
    hereand
    IswearIwil
    lstartgoi
    ngtochur
    chfort
    he
    restofmyli
    feI..
    .
    MJgr
    unt
    sdi
    stur
    binghi
    m.
    Senzo:
    I'
    llstayawayf
    rom I
    sabell
    aandher
    si
    sterIwill
    goawayandnev ercomeback
    j
    ustdon'thurtme.
    MJbackslapshi
    m whichleadstohisface
    bl
    eedingandhimlosi
    nghiseyeballasMJ's
    nai
    lsarel
    ongtheyscrat
    chedhisface
    deepl
    y.

    Downst ai
    rsev
    eryoneissti
    llstandi
    ngst
    il
    l
    feel
    ingnumbwel lexceptf
    orKhay awho
    runsdownt othebasementt ounti
    e
    Mbal enhl
    e.
    Mbal
    i
    :IcanhearSenzo'
    sscr
    eamsf
    rom
    downher
    e.
    Khay
    afr
    ownsl
    ooki
    ngatMbal
    i
    'sf
    ace.
    Khay
    a:hepunchedy
    ou?
    Mbal
    inodsst
    andi
    ngup.
    Khay a:
    thatexplai
    nsMJ" sangercauseIt
    old
    himt okeephi scoolwhenwegether e
    sincetheguy sarewithusbutnot hest
    upid
    Senz ohadt opunchy ouangeri
    ngmy
    brother*shakeshishead*anywayhowdid
    your eactwheny ousawhi minthatst
    ate
    causer i
    ghtnowy ouseemedcalm and
    chil
    led.
    Mbal
    i
    :Idi
    dn'
    tseeanyst
    ateIj
    ustcl
    osedmy
    ey
    es.
    Theywal kedupfi
    ndingever
    yoneinone
    posit
    ionstari
    ngatthesamedirect
    ion
    expecttheguywhogotshotwho' str
    yingt
    o
    nursehisl
    egl
    ooki
    ngl
    i
    kehehasseena
    ghost.
    Mbal
    i
    :andnow?
    Khay
    a:*
    sighs*
    theysawhi
    m.
    Mjthejaguarr
    unstoMbaliandMbalibends
    downletti
    nghi
    ml i
    ckheral
    loverherf
    ace.
    Mbali
    :
    *gi
    ggl
    es*
    okthat
    'senough,
    I'
    m pr
    oud
    ofy
    oubytheway*
    smilesathi
    m*
    Shestandsstrai
    ghtlooki
    ngatev ery
    one,
    shegoestothem andsnapsherf i
    nger
    sin
    fr
    ontofthem buttheydon'tbudge,
    she
    cl
    apsbutsti
    llnothi
    ng.
    Mbal
    i
    :*si
    ghs*
    theyar
    einshock.
    Khay
    a:whatshoul
    dwedo?
    Weneedcol
    dwat
    er.
    Khay
    a:*
    nods*
    I'
    m oni
    t.
    Khayagoestothekit
    chenandf
    indsapi
    pe
    ontopofthecounter
    ,hepl
    ugsi
    tonthet
    ap
    si
    nkthentakesity
    oMbal i
    .
    Khaya:
    hol
    dthi
    spoi
    nti
    ttot
    hem I
    '
    llgoopen
    thet
    ap.
    MbalinodsandKhay
    agoesbacktot
    he
    ki
    tchenandtur
    nonthet
    apthatr
    unscol
    d
    water.
    Zugo,
    Tom&Chr
    is:
    THEFUCK!
    !!
    !
    Khayatur
    nsof
    fthet
    apandgoesbackt
    o
    theguy
    swhoaresocki
    ngwet
    .
    Khaya:
    *chuckl
    es*
    wel
    comebackt
    ohel
    and
    ofl
    iv
    ing.
    Ever
    yoneremai
    nssi
    lentheari
    ngthenoi
    se
    fr
    om upst
    air
    s,t
    henTom cracks.
    Tom:
    WHATTHEFUCKWASTHAT?
    ?!!
    Zugo:
    wast
    hatMJ?
    Khay
    aandMbalil
    ookateachot
    hert
    hen
    Mbal
    inodsatt
    heguys.
    Tom:
    no,
    nonot
    hatcoul
    dn'
    tbehi
    m.
    Khay
    a:y
    ouguy
    sev
    erhear
    dofR.
    TandKay
    ?
    Theyal
    lnod.
    Khay
    a:wel
    lthosear
    eourst
    reetnames.
    Chr
    is:
    didy
    ousay"
    our
    "?
    Khay
    a:y
    eahI
    '
    m KayandMJi
    sR.
    T.
    Theylookathi m asifhe'sgoingtosayhe'
    s
    j
    okingbutnope, whilet
    heot her5guyslook
    ateachot herter
    rif
    iedheari
    ngt hatt
    helady
    theytookpar ti
    nherkidnappingisactual
    ly
    R.T'
    swi f
    eandKay '
    ssisteri
    n-law.
    Zugo:nowi
    tal
    lmakesper
    fectsense,
    the
    roarandgr
    unt
    s,t
    hebr
    eaki
    ngoft hi
    ngsinmy
    house,
    i
    twashi
    m*poi
    nti
    ngup*
    Khay
    anods.
    ~
    MeanwhileSenz
    ohaslosthi
    sarm andhi
    s
    toes,
    he'
    snowcryingsi
    l
    entl
    ywishi
    ngfort
    he
    paintost
    op.

    "Shoul
    dIki
    llhi
    m orkeephim andtor
    tur
    e
    him"MJaskshimsel
    fsti
    llseei
    ngred.

    "Nahhedoesn'tdeservet
    obeinyour
    presenceforal
    ongt i
    me"heanswer
    s
    himself.

    Hechargesathi
    m anddi
    gsinhi
    slongnai
    l
    s
    onSenzo'sst
    omachdeepl
    y,
    Senzogaspsf
    or
    airwhileMJt wist
    shi snail
    spusgi gthem
    evendeeper ...
    hetakeshi slastbreath
    wishinghenev erkidnappedMbal i.MJ
    watcheshi m hitti
    ngt hegroundli
    f el
    essand
    start
    sf ocusingongoodmemor i
    esofhim
    andMbal ihavemadecauseheknowst hey
    will
    calm hi m andtheydoashegoesback
    tonor mal.
    °
    ——°

    Sbahl
    e:f
    ri
    endI'
    mt el
    li
    ngyou*smi
    les*
    ,you
    shoul
    dseehislipswhenhet al
    ks*gi
    ggles*
    hi
    sbodystruct
    ur e,t
    hewayhewal ks
    god*t
    hrowsherselfonthebed*
    Nandi
    pha:
    arewest
    il
    ltal
    ki
    ngaboutWandi
    l
    e?
    Justt
    obesure.
    Sbahl
    e:*
    rol
    l
    sherey
    es*
    aghno,
    onceI
    '
    m wi
    th
    MJI
    '
    m dumpi
    nghi
    sass.
    Nandi
    pha:i
    sthisMJy
    ouspeakof
    f
    i
    nter
    estedi
    ny ou?
    Sbahl
    e:wel
    lhewouldifherugl
    ywi
    fewoul
    d
    st
    opbeingsogluedtohim.
    Nandi
    pha:
    *shocked*
    he'
    smar
    ri
    ed?
    Sbahl
    e:*
    rol
    l
    sherey
    es*
    yeahbuthewon'
    tbe
    forl
    ong.
    Nandi
    pha:*sighs*
    givemet hi
    sguy'
    sful
    l
    namessoIcansear chhi
    m upthenmay be
    I
    'll
    seewhatexact l
    yitist
    hatisdr
    ivi
    ngyou
    thi
    scrazy
    .*takesoutherphone*
    Sbahl
    e:Idonotknowhi
    sful
    lnames.
    Nandi
    pha:
    arey
    ousur
    ehe'
    l
    lleav
    ehi
    swi
    fe
    f
    oryou?
    Sbahl
    e:duhshe'
    sugl
    y,
    may
    beshe'
    susi
    ng
    somel
    ovepor
    ti
    ononhi
    m.
    Nandipha:t
    hewayyouaredescr
    ibi
    ngthi
    s
    guy,
    Idon'tbel
    iev
    ethathewoul
    dmar r
    y
    someoneugl y
    .
    Sbahl
    e:hel
    l
    o!Ij
    ustt
    oldyout
    hatshemi
    ght
    haveusedalov
    eporti
    ononhim.
    Nandipha:okIwon'tjudgeorsayany
    thi
    ng
    causeitdoesn'tconcernmebutIthi
    nkyou
    shouldbreakupwi thWandil
    enowandst op
    str
    ingi
    nghi m al
    ong.
    Sbahl
    e:ar
    eyoucr
    ushi
    ngonWandi
    l
    e?
    Nandi
    phal
    ooksatSbahleandburstout
    l
    aughi
    ngbutt
    henreal
    izeSbahl
    eisn't
    l
    aughi
    ng.
    Nandipha:
    *st
    opsl
    aughi
    ng*
    wai
    tyou'
    re
    ser
    ious?
    Sbahl
    e:noI
    '
    m Kev
    inHear
    t*r
    oll
    i
    ngherey
    es*
    Nandi
    pha:pleasedonotcomparemet
    oyou
    ok*
    maintainingast
    rai
    ghtface*
    Sbahl
    e:*
    embar
    rassed*
    I'
    m sor
    ryIshoul
    dn'
    t
    have.
    *
    *si
    l
    ent
    **
    Sbahl
    e:any
    waysearchMJ'
    swif
    eIknowher
    namesoy oucanseehowugl
    ysheis.
    Nandi
    phasi
    ghsandl
    ooksatherwai
    ti
    ngf
    or
    t
    hename.
    Sbahl
    e:butIdon'
    tknowwhet
    herwe'
    l
    lfi
    nd
    herasMt hembuorMkhi
    ze.
    Nandipha:
    I'
    ll
    star
    twi
    thMt
    hembugi
    veme
    hername/s.
    Sbahl
    e:Mbal
    enhl
    e.
    Nandi
    phaf
    reezes.
    Nandi
    pha:
    Mbal
    enhl
    e?Asi
    nPr
    incess
    Mbal
    enhl
    eMt hembuwho'
    snow
    Mkhi
    ze*f
    rowns*wai
    tbyMJyoumeant
    Mel
    okuhl
    eJasonMkhize.
    Sbahl
    e:pr
    incess?
    ?
    Nandiphagoestohergal
    ler
    yshehasmany
    photosofMbalenhl
    eshereall
    yli
    kesher
    eventhoughshehasnevermether.
    Nandi
    pha:
    *showinghert
    hepi
    ctur
    e*ar
    eyou
    t
    alki
    ngaboutthi
    sgir
    l?
    Sbahl
    e:y
    eah.
    Nandipha:*scr
    eams*ohmygody ouwer e
    shoppingwi t
    hapri
    ncess,
    youwerewi t
    ha
    pri
    ncessy ouevenwenttoherhouse,
    ..
    I
    real
    l
    ylov ehershe'
    sthemostbeauti
    fulgi
    rlI
    haveev erseenohgodcouldyouint
    roduce
    met oher .
    Sbahl
    e:*
    irr
    it
    ated*
    nxx,
    wher
    edi
    dyougether
    pi
    ctur
    es?
    Nandi
    pha:
    *smil
    i
    ng*onInst
    agr
    am Ial
    sohave
    t
    heonesshetookwit
    hherhusbandthey
    l
    ooksog..
    ..
    Sbahl
    e:t
    hef ucky
    ou'
    resupposedtobeon
    mysiderightnownxxI
    'm outofher
    e.*
    she
    st
    ormsout *
    Nandiphast andsthereknowingherfri
    end
    i
    sreallypissedatherbutshej ustcan'
    t
    cont
    rol hersel
    f,shereal
    lywishestomeet
    Mbalenhle.

    ~i
    nser
    t71~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    YuhIam sot
    ired,
    Iwantt
    obathforav
    ery
    l
    ongt i
    meandIalsowanttobei
    nmy
    husband'
    sar
    ms.
    Chri
    s:Iwantt
    oshootyourassesri
    ghtnow
    butmyhandsareli
    ter
    all
    yshaking.
    Zugo:
    met
    oodude.
    Tom:*picki
    nguphi sgun*wellI
    '
    m not
    shaki
    ngandy 'all
    aregoingtothankme
    wheny ouarri
    veinhelli
    nonepi ece,
    now
    Mbalibeadar l
    ingandgot othecarIdon'
    t
    wantyout oseet hi
    s.
    Ir
    oll
    myey
    es.
    Me:
    l
    ett
    hepoorguy
    sgo.
    Khay a:
    Mbaliwecan'
    tjustl
    ett
    hem
    go,especi
    all
    ysincet
    heysawMJinthat
    stateit
    'sr
    isky.
    Wel
    lhehasapoi
    ntt
    her
    e,MJdi
    dtel
    lme
    aboutt
    heconsequencest hatmi ghthappen
    i
    fpeopleseehiminthat"state"
    ,hesaidthey
    mightwanttoki
    llhi
    m causet hey '
    l
    lseehim
    asadangertothehumanr ace.
    Me:
    okIg.
    ..
    IgetdisturbedbyMJwal ki
    ngdownt he
    stai
    rslookingdrai
    ned,Ir
    unt ohi
    m withmy
    hugebel l
    yandt hr
    owmyar msaroundhim
    asheal soholdsmet i
    ghtinacomf or
    tabl
    e
    way .
    ..
    aftersometimewel etgoofeach
    other.
    Him:
    Ithi
    nkweshouldgoandlettheguy
    s
    deal
    withthesewhat
    evert
    heyare.
    Itur
    nandlookatSiyav
    uy aasheal
    solooks
    atmewithapleadingfaceIi
    mmediat
    ely
    thi
    nkofhi
    ssibl
    ings.
    Me:
    uhbabe.
    Hi
    m:y
    eah.
    Me:
    cany
    oudomeaf
    avouri
    nfactal
    lofy
    ou.
    MJ:
    what
    every
    ouwantbabe*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Tom:
    youdon'
    tev
    enknowwhatshewant
    s.
    Khay
    a:whati
    sit
    ?
    Me:
    th.
    ..
    Siya:
    it
    'sok,i
    fyouwantt othankmet hen
    pleaselookaftermysibli
    ngsaft
    erallIal
    so
    deservetobepuni shedcauseItookparti
    n
    yourkidnapping.
    Ishakemyheadr
    epeat
    edl
    y.
    MJ:
    *l
    ooksatme*
    what
    'shet
    alki
    ngabout
    ?
    Me:
    pleasedon'
    tki
    l
    lhi
    m.
    MJ:
    What
    ?
    Si
    ya:
    Mbal
    ii
    t'
    sokayr
    eal
    l
    y.
    Me:noSiyai
    t'
    snot
    ,yoursi
    bli
    ngsst
    il
    lneed
    youtheyhav
    enooneelsesostopsayi
    ng
    i
    t'
    sokay.
    Khay
    a:MJ.
    MJpullsmetowardsthepassagewit
    han
    expr
    essiononhi
    sfaceIcan'
    treal
    lyr
    ead.
    MJ:
    whyarey
    oudefendi
    ngthatguy
    ?How
    doy
    ouevenknowhisname?
    Me:
    Iknowthathet
    ookpar
    tinki
    dnappi
    ng
    mebutpl
    easespar
    ehim.
    MJ:
    Why
    ?
    Me:causeifi
    tweren'
    tforhim Iwouldbe
    deadofhungerandthirstnow,Senzogave
    them or
    derstonotgi
    vemewat ernorf
    ood
    andbabey ouknowthatI'm pr
    egnantIneed
    foodeverynowandthen,especiall
    yaft
    erI
    gaveMj myenergyIwass. .
    Hi
    m:Youdi
    dwhat
    ??
    Me:Iknowi twaswr ongtodosobuti fI
    di
    dn' tdoityouwoul dnotbeher e,
    Senzo
    mighthav edonewor set
    hanwhathehas
    donet omyf ace,butwear enotthereSi
    ya
    ri
    skedhi m ownl i
    fegoingagainstSenzo'
    s
    ordershe'sjustakidhustli
    ngf orhi
    s
    si
    blingsbabepl ease.
    Hi
    m:*si
    ghs*
    whataboutt
    hef
    actt
    hathesaw
    me?
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    Idon'
    tknow.
    Hi
    m:Ihopet
    hisdoesn'
    tbackf
    ir
    es,
    let
    'sgo.
    Wegobackt
    otheot
    her
    s.
    MJ:
    *l
    ooki
    ngatSi
    ya*
    You,
    fol
    l
    owme.
    Siy
    aswall
    owshard,
    MJl ooksatKhayaand
    nodsathi
    m andKhayaalsonods.Me,MJ
    andSiy
    awalkoutIsofeelbadfort
    heother
    guy
    s.
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..

    I'
    m nowinmyhusband'
    sar
    msdr
    awi
    ng
    ci
    rclesonhi
    schest
    .
    Me:
    soo.
    .
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    es*
    whati
    sit
    ?
    Me:
    wehaven'
    ttal
    kedabouttheweddi
    ng
    wi
    thal
    lthi
    scommotionhappeni
    ng.
    Hi
    m:whatdoyouhav
    einmind?Wecanget
    marr
    iedev
    ennextmont
    hIdon'
    tmind.
    Me:wi
    ththi
    shugebel
    ly?Noway.
    ..
    Icanst
    art
    pr
    epar
    ingcauseIwantitt
    obeper
    fect
    .
    Hi
    m:sowhat
    'st
    hedat
    e?
    Me:Idon'
    tknowy
    etbutaf
    terIhav
    egi
    ven
    bi
    rt
    h.
    Hi
    m:t
    hat
    's3mont
    hsf
    rom now.
    Me:
    yeah*
    smi
    l
    ing*
    Hi
    m:i
    fiti
    swhaty
    ouwantt
    henok*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Me:
    coul
    dyouaghnev
    ermi
    nd.
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    es*
    what
    ?
    Me:
    Iwant
    edyoutosingformebutIj
    ust
    r
    ememberedt
    hatyoucan'tsi
    ng.
    Hi
    m:Icansi
    ng.
    Me:wel
    lyeahy
    oucanbuty
    ouar
    eat
    err
    ibl
    e
    si
    nger.
    Hel
    aughsy
    errt
    hatl
    aughofhi
    s.
    Hi
    m:wecancal
    lKhay
    atosi
    ngf
    ory
    ou.
    Me:
    he'
    sagoodsi
    nger
    ?
    Hi
    m:he'
    sthebest
    .
    Me:
    Idon'
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ou.
    Hi
    m:Iknowi
    t'
    sunbel
    i
    evabl
    ebutI
    '
    m ser
    ious.
    Me:
    sti
    l
    ldon'
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ou*
    giggl
    i
    ng*
    Him:I
    'mtell
    i
    ngyou,he'
    sagoodsi
    ngerand
    I
    'm goodinpoet
    ry.
    Me:
    real
    l
    y?Gi
    vemesomet
    hingt
    hen.
    Hi
    m:*
    laughs*
    no
    Me:mcm,ohI'
    vebeenmeani
    ngt
    otel
    lyou
    somethi
    ng.
    Hi
    m:what
    ?
    Me:
    Ithi
    nkSbahl
    ehasacr
    ushony
    ou.
    Hel
    ooksatmeandbur
    sti
    ntol
    aught
    er.
    Me:
    babeI
    '
    m ser
    ious.
    Hi
    m:comeonbabeshe'
    sdat
    ingmycousi
    n.
    Me:
    Iknowbut
    ..
    Hi
    m:nomay
    bey
    ouar
    eov
    erl
    ooki
    ng
    thi
    ngs,pl
    usshel
    ooksli
    keaquiet
    ,l
    oyal
    personshewoul
    dn'tdothatt
    oWandil
    e.
    Me:
    okwhati
    fI'
    mri
    ght
    ?
    Him:i
    fyouar
    eri
    ghtt
    henIdon'
    tcar
    ecause
    I
    'm onl
    yyour
    stohav
    e*smi
    li
    ng*
    Me:*bl
    ushing*It
    rustyou,babe.Andyou
    knowwhat ?That'
    sabet t
    ercompli
    ment
    thanIlov
    ey ou.Wantt oknowwhy ?
    Becausey oudon'tal
    way str
    ustsomeone
    youlove,butyoucanal wayslov
    ethe
    personyoutrust
    -f or
    ever.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Ilov
    eyourf
    ace.
    Il
    aughatt
    hatbl
    ushi
    ngatt
    hesamet
    ime.
    Hi
    m:It
    hinkyoudeser
    vet
    oheart
    hispoem I
    wr
    oteforyou.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    I'
    mli
    steni
    ng*
    Hef
    ir
    stl
    ycl
    ear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    .
    Hi
    m:ILov
    eYou

    Il
    ovey
    ouwheny
    ousmi
    l
    eatme,
    Il
    ovei
    twheny
    ouf
    rown,
    Ilovey
    ouwhenyousayt
    hesweetestt
    hings,
    thatmakesmyhear
    tgoupanddown.

    Il
    ovey
    ouwheny
    oumakemeangr
    y,
    Il
    ovey
    out
    hewayt
    ocomet
    osaysor
    ry.
    Ilovey
    outhewayyoumakethosest
    upid
    facest
    hatmakesmelaughawaytogl
    ory.

    Il
    ovey
    ouwheny
    oumakemel
    augh,
    Andev
    enwheny
    oumakemeangr
    y,
    Il
    ovey
    ou'cozIknowy
    ou'
    l
    lber
    ightther
    e
    wi
    thmeandhelpmemakemytearsdry.

    Il
    ovei
    twheny
    oul
    ookatme
    Whi
    l
    eI'
    mlooki
    ngaway
    ,
    Il
    oveyousomuch'cozIwil
    lnev
    erev
    erl
    ove
    anyonet
    hismucheveragai
    n.

    Myt
    ear
    sgod,
    i
    t'
    sthebabyIswear
    .
    Me:
    b..
    Hi
    m:shh*
    hol
    dingmet
    ight
    er*
    ~

    °
    Khay
    a°
    I
    '
    mti
    redoft
    his/
    /
    Me:
    I'
    m byt
    hegat
    e,comeout
    .
    /
    /
    I
    'mleani
    ngagainstt
    hecarwai
    ti
    ngfor
    her
    ,shesl
    owlywalkstomeasIgetl
    osti
    n
    myonewor l
    d.
    Her
    :hey
    ,di
    dyouguy
    sfi
    ndMbal
    i
    ?
    Me:
    uhyeah,
    she'
    sspendingsome"
    qual
    i
    ty
    t
    ime"wi
    thherhusband.
    Her
    :*hol
    dsherchest
    *oht
    hankgod.
    Me:
    youl
    ookbeaut
    if
    ul.
    Shequi
    ckl
    ylooksatmebl
    ushi
    ng.
    Her
    :t
    hanky
    ou.
    Me:
    l
    ookI
    '
    mti
    redoft
    hisnow.
    Her
    :*conf
    used*
    tir
    edofwhat
    ?
    Me:ofr
    unni
    ngawayofbei
    ngi
    gnor
    anceon
    pur
    pose.
    Her
    :whata.
    .
    Idon'
    tletherf i
    nishIjustsmashmyl i
    pson
    herskissingher,It
    hinkatfi
    rstshe's
    shockedbutsheendsupki ssingmeback.
    Webr eakt hekissaftersomet imetime,
    we
    l
    ookdeepi ntoeachot her
    sey es..
    .wel
    lher
    e
    goesnot hing,
    MJgav emesomel essonsI
    hopeInai lit
    .
    Me:*
    breathi
    ngheav
    y*Nomat
    tert
    hewor
    ld
    st
    opsby ,
    Nomat
    terhowmuchIt
    ry,
    Not
    hingwi
    l
    lev
    erchangemyl
    ovef
    ory
    ou,
    Ican'
    tpr
    etend,
    becausei
    t'
    snotsonew,
    If
    ell
    fory
    ouwhenIf
    ir
    stsawy
    ou,
    Iknowi
    t'
    sonl
    yyou,
    Nomat
    terwher
    eti
    met
    akesmeby
    ,
    Myl
    ovef
    ory
    oui
    sli
    ket
    hesky
    ,
    Il
    ovey
    oul
    otsandwi
    l
    lal
    way
    sdo.

    Pleasegi
    veusachance,
    gi
    vemeachance
    toprovemysel
    ftoy
    ou.
    Her:
    youdon'
    tneedtoprov
    eyour
    sel
    ftome,
    I
    al
    readyknowthatyoul
    ovemeandyesI
    '
    ll
    gi
    veusachance.*smil
    i
    ng*
    Oht
    hankgod,
    weseal
    itwi
    thaki
    ss.
    .
    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Sbahl
    e:y
    oushoul
    dbegl
    adt
    hatI
    '
    mlet
    ti
    ng
    thi
    sgo.
    Nandi
    phar
    oll
    sherey
    esnotmi
    ndi
    ngher
    .
    Sbahl
    e:sowhatdoy
    out
    hink?Bl
    ackorRed?
    Nandi
    pha:Idon'
    tknowwhi
    chcol
    our
    Wandi
    leli
    kes.
    Sbahl
    e:i
    t'
    snotf
    orWandi
    l
    esi
    l
    ly,
    i
    t'
    sforMJ.
    Nandi
    pha:
    *ey
    esal
    lout
    *ar
    eyouputofy
    our
    mind?
    Sbahl
    e:no,Ihav
    etost
    artsomewheresohe
    cannoticemeandalinger
    iei
    sa..
    Nandi
    pha:
    badi
    dea.
    Sbahl
    e:whycan'
    tyousuppor
    tmeuh?
    Nandi
    pha:
    causeMJisahappi
    l
    ymarr
    ied
    manandyouhaveamanwhol ov
    esy
    ouso
    whygoaft
    eramarr
    iedman?
    Sbahl
    e:y
    ouknowwhat
    ?Iwon'tl
    ety
    ouki
    l
    l
    mygoodmood,t
    omorr
    owI'
    ll
    visi
    thi
    mto
    wor
    kanddon'
    twor
    ryI
    '
    llpi
    ckt
    hecol
    ourIl
    i
    ke.
    Nandi
    phasi
    ghsindefeatnotknowi
    ngwhat
    t
    osaytoherfr
    iend.

    ~i
    nser
    t72~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ireallypraythatt hingsgor eallysmooth


    fr
    om nowon, Ireall
    ywi shIwasn' troy
    alty
    somet i
    mes. .
    .anywayI 'm homeal one
    waitingf orSiyavuyaIdi dn'
    tgett hechance
    tospeakt ohimy esterdaysincehewas
    being" threat
    ened"t onotsayawor don
    whathesawohandt henewbody guards
    gother et hi
    smor ni
    ngbef orehubbyl eftf
    or
    wor k.Itseemsl i
    keSi yaisalreadyhere.
    Me:
    *openi
    ngt
    hedoor
    *Si
    yaheycomei
    n.
    Hesmi
    l
    eswal
    ki
    ngi
    n,
    weheadt
    othel
    ounge.
    Me:
    sohowar
    eyou?
    Hi
    m:st
    il
    labi
    ttr
    aumat
    ized.
    Me:
    *smil
    i
    ng*i
    fyoudi
    dn'
    thav
    ebaddr
    eams
    t
    henyou'
    ll
    befi
    ne.
    Hi
    m:y
    ouhav
    eabeaut
    if
    ulhome.
    Me:
    thanky
    ou,
    sot
    ell
    meabouty
    our
    sel
    f.
    Him:I
    'm Siy
    avuy
    aDamaneI '
    m adropout,
    I
    'm
    19yearsofageIli
    vehereinJo'burgin
    Sandtonwithmy2y oungerbrot
    herswho
    aretwinsandayoungersist
    erwhoi sthe
    l
    astbor ni
    nourfamil
    yandI '
    m anorphan
    al
    ongwi thmysibl
    i
    ngs.
    Me:
    howol
    dar
    eyoursi
    bli
    ngs?
    Hi
    m:mybr
    other
    sar
    e16y
    ear
    sol
    dandmy
    si
    steri
    s12.
    Me:at
    leastt
    heyoungersi
    shas3ol
    der
    br
    otherstol
    ookafterher
    .
    Hi
    m:*smil
    es*
    she'
    sourpr
    incessandf
    ir
    st
    pr
    ior
    it
    y.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    wowt
    hat
    'sbeaut
    if
    ul.
    Him:
    yeahwell
    tel
    lmeaboutyoucauset
    he
    onl
    ythi
    ngIknowist
    hatyou'
    reMbali
    .
    Me:t
    hat '
    sshortforMbalenhl
    e,I
    '
    m Mbalenhl
    e
    MkhizeI'm 22yearsoldI'
    m ahappi
    ly
    marr
    iedwomen* smili
    ng*wit
    hnokidsthi
    sis
    myfirstone,bothmypar ent
    saresti
    ll
    ali
    ve
    andIalsohav eanolderbrot
    herwhoIlove
    andmi sssomuch, andI'
    m alawyer
    .
    Hi
    m: It
    houghtyouweregoi
    ngt
    osayy
    ou'
    re
    Mbalenhl
    eMt hembuthe
    pr
    incess*
    chuckles*
    Me:
    doy
    ouknowher
    ?
    Him:noIonlyhearaboutherandher
    brotherSi
    phosenkosii
    fI'
    m notmi st
    aken,
    I
    dowi shtomeetthem someday .
    .peopl
    esay
    theyarereal
    l
    ynicepeopleforroyalt
    y.
    Oucht
    hatki
    ndahur
    tal
    i
    ttl
    e,
    itj
    ustbi
    as.
    Me:
    dor
    oyal
    ti
    eshav
    etobemean?
    Hi
    m:*
    shr
    ugs*
    no.
    Me:*
    sighing*
    peopl
    eshoul
    djustst
    op
    j
    udgingthat'
    sal
    l.
    Hi
    m:t
    rue.
    Me:anyway ,i
    t'
    sal
    readyJunemeani
    ng
    ther
    e'shalfschoolworkyouneedt
    ocat
    ch
    uponi fyoudecidetogobacknowin
    schoolinsteadofnextyear
    .
    Hi
    m:wai
    tyouwer
    eser
    ious?
    Me:yeahIwas,
    socanistar
    tbuyi
    ngyou
    bookswhil
    eMJl ooksf
    oraschoolf
    oryou.
    Him:y
    oudon'thavetodothi
    s,Imeanyou
    haveababyont hewayusethatmoneyon
    hi
    m orherI'
    l
    lseewhatIcandof ormeand
    mysibli
    ngs.
    Me:*sighing*donotwor ryaboutmoney ,
    my
    brot
    herl eftmeahugeamounti nmy
    accountandIst il
    lhaven'tusedtheone
    Tom,Zugo&Chr i
    susedt ogivemeev ery
    mont hwhenIwasn' tyetmarri
    edplus
    mom&dadst i
    ll
    givememoneyIt ol
    dthem
    tostopbutt heyrefused.
    Him:
    *shocked*youmustbeloaded,
    whatdo
    youmeanbyt hatyourbr
    otherl
    efty
    ou?
    Me:
    ohhewentt
    ohi
    sini
    ti
    ati
    on.
    Hi
    m:i
    nit
    iat
    ion?
    ?
    Cr
    ap!
    Me:
    Imeanheuhm.
    ..
    Hi
    m:i
    sSi
    phoy
    ourbr
    other
    ?
    Me:
    yeah.
    *br
    eat
    hingoutl
    oud*
    Hi
    m:t
    hatmeansy
    ou'
    re.
    ..
    Me:
    PrincessMbalenhl
    eMthembubutI
    '
    m no
    l
    ongeraMt hembuI'm aMkhi
    ze.
    Him:
    *shocked*
    ohgoduhm shoul
    dIbower
    r
    uhm.
    .
    Me:
    comeonnow.
    Him:myf r
    iendswon'
    tbel
    iev
    emewhenIt el
    l
    them t
    hatIwaswi t
    hthepri
    ncessoft
    he
    BantuKingdom ohgod.
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    aist
    opbei
    ngext
    raI
    ..
    .
    Myphonedi
    stur
    bsmei
    t'
    sTasha.
    Me:
    sor
    ryIhav
    etot
    aket
    his.
    /
    /
    Me:
    babe.
    Her:
    Iheardyougothomesaf
    eandsound
    canyoubeli
    evethatIev
    enpr
    ayed,
    me
    pray
    ing.
    Me:*smil
    ing*
    Iguessy
    ourpr
    ayer
    sgot
    answered.
    Her:
    yeah,
    wellI'
    l
    lseeyouaf
    terIhave
    knockedoffIhavesomet
    hingtotel
    lyou.
    Me:di
    dyoureal
    lyhadtot
    ell
    methatyou
    havesomet
    hingtotel
    lme,
    nowIreal
    l
    ywant
    toknow.
    Her
    :*l
    aughs*
    pat
    iencemyf
    ri
    endpat
    ience.
    Me:
    mcm gobackt
    owor
    k.
    Her
    :*gi
    ggl
    es*
    seey
    oul
    aterby
    e.
    Me:
    byebabe/
    /
    Ihangup.
    Me:eiI'
    m superlazybutblamethe
    pregnancy,makey our
    selfathomether
    e's
    thekit
    chenov erther
    egomakey our
    sel
    f
    somet hi
    ngtoeat .
    Him:youdon'
    thav
    etoaskmet
    wice*
    stands
    up*.
    Nowthati
    ssoKhay
    a..
    ..
    .hemustl
    ovef
    ood
    j
    ustl
    i
    keKhaya.

    °
    MJ°

    Me:Khayaj
    eezI
    'mtr
    yingt
    owor
    kandwhat
    ar
    ey oudoi
    ngher
    e?
    Hi
    m:t
    oseesomeone.
    Il
    ookathi
    m wi
    thoneey
    ebr
    owr
    aised.
    Me:
    doesthatsomeone'
    snamest
    artwi
    tha
    NandendswithanA?
    Hi
    m:di
    ngdi
    ngdi
    ngy
    ougoti
    tri
    ght
    .
    Me:
    *chuckl
    i
    ng*
    det
    ail
    s.
    Hi
    m:well
    aft
    erthetal
    kIhadwit
    hMbali
    I
    r
    eal
    izedt
    hatIshoul
    dgiveusashot
    .
    Me:ei
    atl
    ast,
    Iwaswonder
    ingwheny
    ou'
    l
    l
    cometoyoursenses.
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    es*
    andI
    '
    m gl
    adt
    hatIdi
    d.
    Me:si
    ncemynamedoesn'
    tst
    artwit
    haN
    andendswi
    thanAwhatthefuckar
    eyou
    doi
    nginmyoff
    ice?
    Hi
    m:Icamet
    ohal
    amybr
    otherwhoIl
    ove.
    Me:
    what
    every
    ouwantno,
    nowgetout
    .
    Hi
    m:ouchyou'
    rebr
    eaki
    ngmyhear
    t*t
    ouches
    hi
    schest
    *
    Me:
    whati
    fdadshowsupandf
    indy
    ouher
    e?
    Him:Idi
    dn'
    tthi
    nkofthat
    ,l
    etme
    bounce*st
    andsup*
    Me:andseri
    ousl
    ywhat
    every
    ouwanty
    ou
    won'tgeti
    t.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    rks*
    we'
    l
    lseebr
    other
    .
    Nxhewal
    ksoutandIgobackt
    owor
    k.

    Aft
    ersomeshor
    tti
    memyof
    fi
    cephone
    ri
    ngs.
    /
    /
    Me:
    MrMkhi
    zehel
    l
    o.
    "
    MrMkhizet
    hisi
    stherecept
    ioni
    stt
    her
    e'sa
    l
    adyher
    ewhowantstoseeyou"
    Me:
    doesshehav
    eanappoi
    ntment
    ?
    Rec:
    appar
    ent
    lyno.
    Me:
    thent
    ell
    hert
    omakeanappoi
    ntment
    .
    Rec:
    o..
    .shesay
    sit
    'sur
    gent
    .
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    whoi
    sthatl
    ady
    ?
    Rec:
    sor
    rywhat
    'sy
    ourname?
    ..
    ..
    .Sbahl
    esi
    r.
    Me:
    oky
    oumayl
    etherup.
    /
    /
    Sbahle?Iwonderwhati
    tist
    hati
    ssour
    gent
    forhertocomehere.
    Aknockcomest hr
    oughmydooritmustbe
    her
    ,Itel
    lhert
    ocomein.Shewal
    ksin
    smili
    ng.
    Me:youmayseatandmaywer apupfast
    whateveritisyoucametosaycauseIr
    eal
    ly
    needtofinishupheresoIcangohome
    earl
    y.
    Shedoesn'
    tsi
    tsher
    emai
    nsst
    andi
    ng
    ohhhhhk,
    Il
    eanbackonmychairlooki
    ngat
    her,
    Iknowthatit
    '
    swint
    erbutt
    odayiti
    s
    smokinghotforacoat
    .
    Her
    :Idon'
    tknowhowt osayt
    hissoI
    'l
    ll
    et
    myactionspeakl
    oudert
    hanwords?
    I'
    mt r
    ulyconfusedbutIl
    ookatherwit
    ha
    str
    aightface,
    shewalksar
    oundthetabl
    eto
    mysi de.
    Me:I
    '
    m sor
    rybutnoonei
    sal
    lowedonthi
    s
    si
    debesi
    desmywi f
    eandmybrot
    her
    .
    Isaythatst i
    ll
    mai ntaini
    ngastrai
    ght
    face,
    insteadofwal kingbacktotheother
    sideshet akesoffhercoatexposingher
    bodyinjustabl ackl i
    ngeri
    e..
    .OkMJcal m
    downj ustcalm down.
    Me:Idon'
    twanttohur
    tyousoki
    ndl
    ypi
    ckup
    yourcoatandexi
    tmyoffi
    ce.
    Her
    :i
    t'
    sokIcanhandl
    erough.
    AiboI'
    m beingtestedher
    ewhosaidI'
    m
    tal
    kingaboutsex,shecomescl
    oser
    touchi
    ngmyar m.
    Me:
    *cal
    mly*
    Idon'tl
    i
    ket
    obet
    ouched
    r
    emoveyourhand.
    Sheusesherot
    herhandt
    otouchmycrockI
    qui
    ckl
    ystanduppushi
    ngherawayr
    oughly
    .
    Me:ISAI
    DIDON'
    TLIKETOBE
    TOUCHED!!
    GETTHEFUCKOUTBEFOREI
    SNAPYOURSTUPIDNECKOFF!
    !
    Her
    :*t
    err
    if
    ied*
    youwoul
    dn'
    tdot
    hat
    .
    Me:
    wannabet
    ?
    Her:
    whycan'ty
    ouseethatIl
    ovey
    ou,
    we
    deser
    veeachothery
    oudonotdeser
    vet
    hat
    ugl
    ythingy
    oucallawif
    e.
    Ibacksl
    apherandshescr
    eams.
    Me:
    *poit
    ingather*
    don'
    tyoudar
    etal
    kabout
    mywifeli
    kethat
    .
    Her:*
    holdshercheek*shemusthav egiv
    en
    youal oveporti
    oncan'
    ty ousee?She
    doesn'tevenlookl
    ikeawi f
    emat er
    ial
    I'
    m
    sureshe'sjustasl
    utafteryourmoney.
    Ist
    umbl ebackf eel
    i
    ngmyangerbrewing
    up,
    Itakemyphonewi t
    hmyshakinghands
    andtypeashor tmessaget
    oKhay aI
    'm sur
    e
    he'
    sstil
    lhere.

    "
    Myof
    fi
    ce,
    now!
    !"

    Sbahl
    e:I
    '
    m sur
    eit'
    salottotakei
    nbutwe
    canfi
    ghtthel
    ovepor
    tiontoget
    her.
    Istar
    tseei
    ngredastheword"
    slut
    "keeps
    playi
    nginmyhead,
    shecal
    ledmywifeaslut
    she..
    Her
    :may
    bew.
    .
    Me:
    SHUTUP!
    !

    Khayabudgesin,
    helooksatthealmost
    nakedSbahleandfrownsthenlooksatme
    andbacksupabi tIreal
    l
    ywishforthathe
    under
    standsthatIwouldneverhurthi
    m.
    Khaya:
    cal
    m downMJ,Sbahl
    ewhatar
    eyou
    doi
    ngherelooki
    ngl
    i
    kethat?
    Me:
    getherout
    .
    Her
    :butI
    ..
    Me:
    *st
    andi
    ngup*
    GETHEROUT!
    !
    Khaya:
    wearyourst
    upi
    dcoatandgett
    he
    fuckoutofher
    e.
    Shelooksatmeandall
    I'
    m seeingismyself
    snappi
    ngherneckof
    f,
    Iwalktowardsher.
    Khay
    a:SBAHLEGETOUT!
    !
    Shequickl
    ypi
    cksuphercoatwear
    ingi
    tand
    rushesout
    .
    I
    'm atworkIdon'twanttocauseascene
    butI'
    m sti
    llgonnadealwi
    thher
    nxxxx,
    bloodyhoecall
    ingmywi f
    easlut
    damnshe' sgonnapay.

    ~ɨ
    ռsɛʀt73~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°
    Me:
    outwi
    thi
    t.
    Her:
    meandKhay
    aar
    eof
    fi
    cial
    l
    yseei
    ngeach
    ot
    her.
    Webot
    hjumpupanddownscr
    eami
    ng.
    Me:
    aboutdamnt
    ime.
    Her:
    *gi
    ggl
    es*absol
    utel
    y,sowher
    eisBel
    l
    a
    andhersi
    ster
    ?
    Me:probablyontheirwaybackwit
    h
    Chris,
    I
    'm sogladthisi
    soverIcannow
    focusonmyweddi nginpeace.
    Her
    :I
    'mt
    heweddi
    ngpl
    annerobv
    iousl
    y.
    Me:
    *rol
    l
    ingmyey
    es*
    wit
    houtadoubt
    .
    Her
    :*smil
    es*
    ohmygodI'm soexci
    ted,
    how
    manygroomsmandoesMJhav e?andhow
    manybri
    desmai
    dsdoyouhav ewell
    i
    ncl
    udingmeasthemaidof..
    ..
    Me:yeahyeah,
    ei
    shI'
    m shor
    tofbr
    idesmai
    ds
    babe..
    .MJhas5groomsmenandIhav e2
    bri
    desmaids.
    Her:
    theremustbeotherpeopl
    eyoucould
    t
    hinkof,andwho'
    sthe5thpersoncause
    t
    here'sKhaya,
    Zugo,
    Chri
    sandTom.
    Me:
    I'
    mt hinki
    ngofaski
    ngBell
    aandSneand
    f
    ort
    hel astoneI
    'm compl
    etel
    ycl
    uel
    ess,
    oh
    t
    heotherguyisBonga.
    Her:
    ohthechil
    dhoodfr
    iendIal
    waysf
    orget
    aboutcausehe'
    shardl
    yhereandwel
    lyou
    havetothi
    nkofsomeoneelsesoont
    o
    makemyj obeasi
    er.
    Me:
    don'
    tfor
    gett
    ogeti
    ncont
    actwi
    thmom.
    Her
    :Iwoul
    dn'
    tdar
    eIev
    ...
    MJwalksinlooki
    nggr
    umpyorisi
    ttense
    wel
    lIcan'
    treadhi
    m,heonl
    ysay
    safternoon
    wi
    thoutev
    enl
    ooki
    ngatusgoi
    ngupt
    oour
    r
    oom.
    Me:
    ooooky
    .
    Her
    :we'l
    lcont
    inuet
    hisconv
    ersat
    ionlat
    er,
    l
    et
    megetgoingohanddon'tf
    orgetabout
    Sat
    urdayok.
    Me:
    Iwon'
    tbabe.
    Wehugandshel eav
    es,onSat
    urdayTasha
    wantsmet oaccompanyhertobuyherfirst
    carshe'ssoexcitedandI'
    m pr
    oudofher .
    AnywayIgoy omygr umpyhusbandIhave
    tofi
    ndoutwhat 'supwithhim,
    Ifindhi
    m
    undressing.
    Me:
    heybabe.
    Hi
    m:heyl
    ove.
    Me:
    what
    'swr
    ong?Youdon'
    tl
    ooksohot
    .
    Hi
    m:ouch*
    pret
    endst
    obehur
    t*
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    i
    ng*
    aghy
    ouknowwhatImean.
    Hi
    m:*si
    ghs*
    youwer
    eri
    ghtaboutSbahl
    e
    cr
    ushi
    ngonme.
    Me:
    *rai
    singmyey
    ebr
    ow*
    I'
    mli
    steni
    ng.
    Henarr at
    estheenti
    rethi
    ngformeandt rust
    meI '
    m beyondshockedrightnowIcan'
    t
    evenfindtheri
    ghtwordstosayandI'm also
    angryhowcoul dshedoandsaysuch
    thi
    ngs.
    Him:angeri
    snotgoodf
    ort
    hebabybabe
    cal
    m down.
    Me:Isuspectedt
    hatshehasacr
    ushonyou
    butforhertodosomethi
    ngli
    ket
    his,
    i
    t'
    sit
    '
    s
    i
    t'
    s..
    Hi
    m:cr
    azy
    .
    SeeIcan'tevenfi
    ndt heri
    ghtwordstosay
    butall
    inallI'
    m sogratef
    ultohavea
    husbandlikeMJImeanal otofmancould
    havefall
    enforthatt
    empt at
    ionbuthedidn'
    t,
    Godblessmyhusband.
    Him:j
    ustst
    opst
    ressi
    ngmybabyoutI
    '
    llt
    ake
    careofher
    .
    Me:
    woahy
    ou'
    l
    ltakecar
    eofheri
    nwhatway
    ?
    Him:I'
    ll
    justt
    eachheral essonshewi l
    lnever
    for
    getherentir
    elif
    eandaf t
    erthatI
    '
    llt
    ell
    Wandi l
    ecauseobviousl
    yt hisl
    adyisplayi
    ng
    him shedoesn'
    tlovehim.
    Inod,
    smi
    l
    ingathi
    m.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed.
    Bel
    l
    a:ar
    eyousur
    ethatwear
    esaf
    eher
    e?
    Chr
    is:
    yeahtr
    ustmey ouar
    e,pl
    ushewi
    l
    l
    nev
    ereverbothery
    ouagai
    n.
    Bel
    l
    a:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    thanky
    ou.
    Chr
    is:ohbef
    oreIfor
    gether
    earesigned
    di
    vorcepapers*
    handi
    nghertheenvel
    ope*
    Bell
    atakestheenv el
    opewithhereyesall
    outnotbeli
    evi
    ngt hatSenzosignedthe
    div
    orcepapers,sheopenst heenvel
    opeand
    whensheseesSenzo' ssignatur
    eshe
    fl
    ashesasmi l
    ewi thtr
    atsfall
    i
    ngdownher
    cheeks.
    Her
    :but
    ..
    buthow?
    Chri
    s:j
    ustbegl
    adthatyou'
    renol
    ongera
    ZondiyouareaBi
    yela.
    Her:
    ohmygodIdon'
    tknowhowt
    othank
    you.
    Chri
    s:i
    twasn'
    tj
    ustmetheguysal
    sohel
    ped
    butyoushoul
    dthankMbal
    ithemost
    .
    Her
    :Iwi
    l
    l.
    Chr
    is:
    Ihav
    etogonow,
    I
    'l
    lseey
    out
    omor
    row.
    Heki
    sseshercheekt
    henl
    eav
    es.

    °
    Nandi
    pha°

    Sbahl
    e:y
    ohbabeIwassoembar
    rassed.
    Me:
    may bethatexperi
    enceshouldtel
    lyou
    t
    hatyoushouldjustdropal
    lofthis.
    Her:
    ohnowaynotaf
    terIwasembar
    rassed
    l
    ikethat
    .
    Me:Sbahl
    eyou'
    retaki
    ngthi
    ngswaytofar
    now,i
    t'
    sobvi
    ousthathedoesn'
    twanty
    ouso
    whyareyousti
    l
    ldoingthi
    s.
    Her:
    becauseIl
    ovehi
    m andIwantt
    obe
    wit
    hhim,onl
    yhim.
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    sowhat
    'sony
    ourmi
    nd?
    Her
    :*smi l
    es*
    drughi
    m,sl
    eepwi
    thhi
    mthen
    f
    all
    pr egnant
    .
    Il
    ookatheri
    ntot
    alshock.
    Me:
    AreYouOutofy
    ourmi
    nd!
    !!
    !
    Her
    :i
    nthatwayt
    hingswi
    l
    lbeal
    oteasi
    er.
    Me: y
    ouknowwhat ,I'
    m outofthi
    sfriendship
    youhav echangedal otandIkepttelli
    ng
    my selfthatyouarejustgoingthrougha
    phasebutnot hisisbeyondme. .
    youar e
    try
    ingt odestroyav erybeauti
    ful
    rel
    ationshipohnoscr at
    chthatyouar e
    try
    ingt odestroyav erybeauti
    ful
    mar riage,
    a
    mar r
    iagey oushouldbel earni
    ngmor ef rom
    notdest royi
    ngit.Igetthatyoudon'tlove
    Wandi l
    ebutIthinkhedeser vest oknow
    thatcauseheseemsheadsov erheel sf
    or
    you,whoknowsmay behe'spl anningt o
    proposetoy ouwhileyou'r
    ebusyt ryingto
    destroyhiscousin'
    smar r
    iage* exhale*when
    youf i
    ndtherealSbahl
    et ellhert ogivemea
    callshehasmynumberandt el lherthatI
    missher .
    Iwalkoutl eav
    inghersil
    entinher
    room,she'sseri
    ousl
    ynott heSbahleIgrew
    upwith..
    .Ihavetofi
    ndpr i
    ncessMbal enhl
    e
    andwar nherbutwher ewillIf
    indher?

    Thenamei sNandiphay'al
    lknowmeas
    Sbahle'
    sfriend,
    Ithi
    nkthatjust
    changed..
    .don'tgetmewr ongI'm st
    il
    l
    wil
    li
    ngtobeherf ri
    endonlyifshegoesback
    toheroldsel f
    .

    Cont
    inuat
    ion¶

    °
    Mɮaʟ
    ɛռɦʟ
    ɛ°

    MJ:
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    doy
    our
    eal
    l
    yhav
    etogo?
    Me:stopbei
    ngababyI
    '
    llbebacki
    naf
    ew
    hours.
    Hi
    m:howmanyhour
    sexact
    ly?
    Me:Idon'
    tknow,we'
    l
    lbuyTasha'
    scar
    ,hav
    e
    l
    unchthenI'
    llcomeback.
    Hi
    m:butI
    ..
    Me:ai
    Melokuhl
    egohangoutwi
    tht
    heguy
    s
    orsomet
    hing.
    Isaythatwal
    kingoutwithMJt hej
    aguar
    l
    eavingtheotherMJsulki
    ng,t
    odayhe
    deci
    dedt owakeupcli
    ngy .
    ~
    ~
    Me:sowhichcardoy
    ouhavei
    nmind?Oh
    f
    ir
    stlyhowmuchhaveyousav
    edup?
    Tasha:
    I'
    vesavedupalotli
    kealotandI
    havenoideawhichcarI
    '
    llgof
    orbutithas
    tobebig.
    Me:
    ohy
    eaht
    hebi
    ggert
    hebet
    ter
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Her
    :exact
    ly.
    Me:soyouwon'
    tbel
    i
    evewhatSbahl
    edi
    don
    Tuesday.
    Her
    :what
    ?
    It
    ellt
    hewholet
    hingMJtol
    dmeandthat
    l
    eavesTashawi
    thhermout
    hhangi
    ng.
    Her
    :you'
    rel
    yi
    ng.
    Me:
    I'
    mtel
    l
    ingy
    ou.
    Her
    :noshehasreal
    l
    ycr ossedt
    hel
    i
    newe
    hav
    etoteachheralesson.
    Me:
    how?
    Her:
    Idon'
    tknowbutwehav
    etodo
    somethi
    ng.
    Me:Ij
    ustdon'
    twanttot
    hinkal
    otabouti
    t
    causeitmakesmereal
    l
    yangryandIhav
    e
    tothi
    nkofmybaby.
    Her
    :*si
    ghs*
    Iheary
    ou.
    Myphoner
    ings.
    Me:
    goi
    nI'
    l
    lcat
    chupIhav
    etot
    aket
    his.
    Shenodsandwal
    ksinsi
    dethecarst
    ore
    whil
    eIpi
    ckupKhaya'
    scall
    //
    Me:
    Khay
    a.
    Hi
    m:babymamahowar
    eyou?
    "
    Voet
    sekmar
    nKhay
    a"say
    sMJmaki
    ngme
    gi
    ggl
    e.
    Me:
    I'
    m awesomey
    our
    sel
    f?
    Him:I
    'mfant
    ast
    ic,
    soWandi
    l
    eishost
    inga
    part
    ytoday.
    Me:
    ohy
    eahhi
    spr
    omot
    ionpar
    tyhet
    oldme.
    Him:yeahwearesupposetobether
    e
    al
    readybutyourhusbandher
    esayshe'
    snot
    goi
    ngany wherewit
    houtyou,
    coul
    dyout
    alk
    somesensei nt
    ohim.
    Me:
    *gi
    ggl
    ing*
    justt
    ell
    him Iwon'
    tbehome
    f
    orqui
    tesometime.
    Him:
    MJMbalisayst
    hatherandTashaare
    pl
    anni
    ngtodosomeshoppingandgo
    pampert
    hemselv
    esatthespa,
    thatwi
    l
    ltake
    qui
    tesometi
    medon'ty
    outhink?
    MJgr
    oans.
    Khay
    a:t
    hankswi
    feyby
    e.
    Me:
    bye/
    /
    .
    ..
    ~
    SoTashaendedupbuy i
    ngaRangeRov erI
    havenoi deawhatmodel iti
    scauseI '
    m
    simplycluelesswheni tcomest ocars,
    she'
    llbepicki ngituptomorrowcauseshe
    wantssomechangesont hecarli
    kethe
    i
    nteri
    orandt hecarseatsshewantt hem
    red,
    numberpl ateandmor e.
    ..
    anywaywear e
    nowwal kingi natRocamamasIam
    star
    ving,
    asI 'm walki
    nginIfreeze.
    ..
    .t
    heA.Qs
    aretr
    y i
    ngt oshowort ellmesomet hing.
    OhGod!
    "
    Babe!"
    Tashasay
    ssnappi
    ngherf
    inger
    sin
    f
    rontofmebri
    ngingmeback.
    Her:
    arey ouokay?Ial
    mostcall
    edan
    ambulancey ou'
    vebeenst
    andingsti
    ll
    not
    moving,notbli
    nki
    ngnotbr
    eathingf
    or3
    minutes.
    Me:
    *i
    nshock*y
    eahy
    eahI
    '
    mfi
    neIhav
    eto
    makeacal
    l.
    Wewal
    kin.
    Her
    :ar
    eyousur
    eyou'
    reokay
    ?
    Me:y
    eah,coul
    dyouor
    derf
    ort
    hebot
    hofus
    I
    'l
    lberi
    ghtback.
    Shenodswhil
    eIgototheladi
    es,
    Itakeout
    myphoneandquickl
    ydial
    MJ'snumberbut
    i
    tri
    ngsunanswer
    ed.
    Me:
    fuckMJpi
    ckupt
    hegoddamnphone.
    Idi
    alKhay
    a'sandi
    talsori
    ngsunanswer
    ed,
    I
    paceupanddownfrust
    rat
    ed.
    Me:
    cal
    m downMbal
    ij
    ustcal
    m down.
    Icl
    osemyeyescal
    mingmysel
    fdown,
    Itr
    y
    Wandil
    eandl
    ucki
    lyhepi
    cksup/
    /
    Me:
    Wandi
    hey
    .
    Hi
    m:pr
    incesshowar
    eyou?
    Me:I'
    m okay,
    isMJclosertoyouIwantt
    o
    tal
    ktohimI '
    vebeentry
    ingtogetahol
    dof
    him buthi
    sphoneringsunanswer
    ed.
    Him:Idon'
    tknowwherehim andKhaya
    disappear
    edtobutofIseehimI'
    l
    ltel
    lhi
    m
    togetbacktoyou.
    Me:
    ok,
    uhm i
    sSbahl
    eal
    sot
    her
    e?
    Hi
    m:y
    eahwhy
    ?
    Me:*
    sighing*
    nothi
    ngIwasj
    ustaski
    ng
    any
    wayt hankyou.
    Hi
    m:any
    time.
    //
    ~i
    nser
    t74~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ir
    usht
    owher
    eTashai
    sseat
    ed.
    Her
    :what
    'swr
    ong?
    Me:
    wehav
    etogo.
    Her
    :what
    ?Why
    ?
    Me:Idon'
    thav
    eti
    met
    oexpl
    ainnowbutwe
    hav
    et ogo.
    Her
    :*st
    andsup*
    isev
    ery
    thi
    ngokay
    ?
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknow.
    Wewal
    kouti
    nar
    ushgoi
    ngt
    othepar
    king
    l
    ot.
    Me:
    IdonotknowWandi
    '
    saddr
    essl
    etm.
    .
    Her
    :wai
    twear
    egoi
    ngatWandi
    '
    s.
    Me:
    yeahdoy
    ouknowwher
    ehest
    ays?
    Her:
    noIhavenocl
    ue,
    comeonbabet
    ell
    me
    what'
    sgoi
    ngon.
    Me:
    I'
    l
    ltel
    lyoul
    aterbabe.
    IdialWandi'
    snumberbutthi
    stimeittakes
    mest rai
    ghttovoi
    cemai
    l,
    ohgodIf eel
    like
    breaki
    ngdowni nt
    otear
    srightnow.
    "Mam ar
    ey ouokay
    ?"t
    hat
    'soneofmy
    body
    guards.
    Inodf
    ight
    ingawaymyt
    ear
    s.
    "
    Ohmygodi
    t'
    syou"
    Ir
    aisemyheadl
    ooki
    ngatt
    hisbeaut
    if
    ull
    ady
    wi
    thabeamingsmil
    e.
    Her
    :I
    'm suchahugef
    anofy
    oupr
    incess
    Mbal
    enhl
    eIf
    oll
    owy
    oui
    nev
    erysoci
    almedi
    a.
    Ij
    ustgiveheraweaksmi l
    enotknowi ng
    whattosayespecial
    l
    ysincethelastperson
    whosaidthattomeal mostki
    ll
    edmybaby
    pl
    usIhav enostr
    engthtotal
    krightnowI '
    m
    devast
    ated.
    Her:
    I'
    veal
    sobeenpray
    ingt
    obumpintoyou
    I
    'm gl
    adthatmypr
    ayersar
    eanswer
    edI.
    .
    Me:l
    ooknottobemeanorany
    thi
    ngbutI
    hav
    et ogo.
    ..
    Her:
    Ipromiset
    hiswi
    l
    lonlyt
    akea
    minut
    e*giv
    esmebeggingeyes*
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    ok.
    Her
    :f
    ir
    stl
    ymynamei sNandi
    pha,
    Ij
    ustwant
    t
    owarnyouaboutSbahl
    eshe'
    sp..
    ..
    .
    Me:
    wai
    t!Di
    dyouj
    ustsaySbahl
    e?
    Shenods.
    Me:
    howdoy
    ouknowSbahl
    e?
    Her
    :shei
    s/wasmyf
    ri
    end.
    Me:doy oubyanychanceknowWandi
    '
    s
    address?
    Her
    :*conf
    used*
    who'
    sWandi
    ?
    Me:
    Wandi
    l
    e.
    Her
    :ohy
    eahIdo.
    Me:*
    exhal
    ingdeepl
    y*ohy
    ou'
    resucha
    l
    if
    esaver
    .
    Shegiv
    esmeWandi'
    saddressandwedr
    ive
    offi
    mmedi
    atel
    yaf
    tert
    hat.
    Tasha:
    youdi
    dn'
    tev
    enhearwhatiti
    sshe
    wantedtowar
    nyouaboutSbahl
    e.
    Me:
    Ial
    readyknow.
    Her
    :youcanbecr
    eepyatt
    imesdoy
    ou
    knowt
    hat
    ?
    Me:
    soI
    '
    vebeent
    old.
    .
    WegetatWandi
    '
    syohi
    tispackedhowwi
    l
    lI
    f
    indMJ?
    Me:youdon'
    thav
    et ocomei
    nyouknow,
    my
    husbandi
    sinhere.
    "Sorr
    ymam butMrMkhi zemadei tspecif
    ic
    thatwedon'tl
    eaveyoursi
    deunl esshet el
    ls
    usto"say
    soneoft hebodyguardsIdon't
    evenknowtheirnameswellthat'
    sbecause
    theydon'
    tspeakmuch.
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    ok.
    Il
    ookatTasha.
    Me:hel
    pmefi
    ndMJ, i
    fyouf
    indhi
    m pl
    ease
    cal
    lmeimmediat
    ely
    .
    Shenodsdi
    sappeari
    nginthecrowd,It
    hen
    l
    ookatMjthejaguarandasifhereadsmy
    mindhedi
    sappearstothecr
    owdt oo.
    ~
    Ihav
    elookedforMJal
    mostever
    ywher
    e
    andsti
    l
    lIcan'
    tfi
    ndhi
    m,wher
    eishe?
    "Myfeetevenhur
    tnow"
    Tashasay
    s
    appr
    oachingme.
    Me:
    can'
    tfi
    ndhi
    m?
    Her
    :no.
    Mj t
    hejaguaral
    soshowsupandlaysdown
    l
    icki
    nghisfur,
    Ij
    ustbr
    eaki
    ntotear
    s
    f
    rustrat
    ed.
    Tasha:
    babet
    alkt
    ome.
    It
    ell
    heraboutSbahl
    e'
    spl
    ant
    hatIsaw.
    Her
    :Sbahl
    ecan'
    tdi
    sappearwi
    thMJi
    nher
    boy
    fri
    end'
    spart
    ybabeI
    '
    m suret
    her
    e'sa
    l
    ogi
    calexpl
    anat
    ionf
    ort
    his.
    Ishakemyheadwi
    tht
    ear
    sst
    il
    lfal
    l
    ingdown
    mycheeks.
    Me:
    didy
    oubumpi
    ntoherwhi
    l
    elooki
    ngf
    or
    MJ?
    Shesi
    ghsl
    ooki
    ngdown.
    Me:
    see.
    "
    Guy
    syoumadei
    t"
    say
    swandi
    .
    Hi
    m: *f
    rowns*
    what
    'swr
    ong?Whyi
    sMbal
    i
    cr
    ying?
    Tasha:
    sheuhm she.
    .
    Me:
    hor
    mones.
    Him:oh,
    uhhav ey ouguysseenSbahl
    eI
    havebeenlookingf orherf
    oranenti
    rehour
    andIsti
    llcan'
    tfindherworseherphoneis
    of
    f.
    Tasha:
    nowehav
    en'
    t.
    Him:*sighs*
    okthanks,
    any
    wayenj
    oyt
    he
    part
    y.*hewalksaway*
    Tasha:babeyou'
    restr
    essi
    ngoutthebaby
    pl
    easest opcry
    ingandisitmeordidi
    tjust
    getreall
    ywindy,
    eventhewateri
    nthepooli
    s
    movingatapaceIc. .
    .wai
    tMbaliar
    ey..
    Me:*
    breat
    hingheav
    y*wehav
    etogetoutof
    her
    e.
    "
    Ohmygodi
    t'
    spr
    incessMbal
    enhl
    e"
    Theyscream r
    unningt
    owardsme,Iquickl
    y
    backawaywhi l
    emybodyguardstryto
    bl
    ockthem,I'
    m knownandaprincessbutI
    needspace.
    Tasha:
    babear
    eyouokay
    ?*t
    ri
    est
    otouch
    me*
    Ial
    sobackawayf
    rom her
    .
    Me:
    Idon'
    twantt
    ohur
    tyouTasha.
    Her:
    Ncami sai
    dyourangerisdangerousso
    pl
    easecalm down,t
    hinkaboutever
    yone
    her
    eitat
    leastthi
    nkofy ourbaby
    .
    Icl
    osemyeyesbutall
    IseeisSbahleontop
    ofmyhusbandIopenmyey esIshoul
    dn'
    t
    bethi
    nki
    ngli
    kethi
    sbutIcan'thel
    pit
    .
    Tasha:
    yourey
    esar
    etoor
    edMbal
    ical
    m
    down.
    .
    °
    MJ°

    Her
    :pl
    easedon'
    thur
    tme,
    Ibegy
    ou.
    Me:youareinnoposit
    iont
    oaskfor
    any
    thing,
    fi
    rst
    lyyoushowedupi
    nmyoff
    ice
    toseducemeknowi ngverywellt
    hatyour
    boyfr
    iendismycousi nandthatIam
    marri
    edsecondl yyoucall
    edmywi fe,MY
    WIFEasl utImighthavelookedpassedthe
    seducingpartbutyouangeredmeal ot
    wheny oucall
    edmywi f
    easl utt
    henthir
    dly
    youstil
    lhavethenervetotrytodrugme.
    Her
    :*cr
    ying*
    I'
    m sor
    ry.
    Me:*
    chuckli
    ng*whyareyoucr
    ying?causeI
    hav
    en'tdoneanyt
    hingtoyouyet.
    Khay
    awal
    ksi
    n.
    Hi
    m:Mbali
    andTashahavebeencal
    l
    ingus
    maybet
    heyar
    edoneatthemall.
    It
    urnt
    olookatSbahl
    e.
    Me:l
    ooksli
    kemywif
    emi ssesme,
    sobea
    goodgir
    landst
    ayst
    il
    l.
    MeandKhay
    adr
    ivebackt
    omyhouse.
    Khay
    a:Ist
    il
    ldon'
    tunderst
    andwhyshe
    woul
    dwantt odr
    ugy ou.
    Me:meandyoubot
    hbr
    obutIwi
    l
    lget
    answer
    stomorr
    ow.
    Him:
    andIdonotevenwantt
    oi magi
    newhat
    wouldhav
    ehappenedi
    fyoudidn'
    tseeher
    spi
    keyourdr
    ink.
    Wegethome.
    Me:areyousureMbalical
    l
    edcausei
    t
    doesn'
    tl
    ooklikeshe'
    sback.
    Hi
    m:howdoy ouknowsheisn'tbackcause
    wehaven'
    tev
    enenteredi
    nside.
    Me:*r
    olli
    ngmyey
    es*
    thecarshel
    eftoni
    s
    nothere.
    Hi
    m:aghl
    et'
    sjustgobackt
    othepar
    ty.
    Me:
    ait
    heyar
    epr
    obabl
    yont
    hei
    rwayback
    now.
    Hi
    m:y
    ouar
    esuchapar
    typopper
    .
    Il
    aughathi
    m aswewal
    kinsi
    det
    hehouse.

    ~i
    nser
    t75~

    °
    MJ°

    Me:
    i
    t'
    sbeenanhour
    ,t
    hey
    'r
    est
    il
    lnother
    e.
    Hi
    m:may
    bet
    heygotcaughtupsomewher
    e.
    Me:
    l
    etmecal
    lher
    .
    It
    akeoutmyphoneandcal
    lherbuti
    ttakes
    mestr
    aightt
    ovoi
    cemai
    l.
    Me:
    voi
    cemai
    l
    .
    Hi
    m:l
    etmet
    ryTasha.
    Hedi
    alsTasha'
    snumber
    .
    Hi
    m:i
    tri
    ngsunanswer
    ed.
    OkI'
    m start
    ingtopani
    ck,
    Icall
    bothher
    bodyguardsandthei
    rphonesalsor
    ings
    unanswered.
    Me:
    *paci
    ngupanddown*
    tryTashaagai
    n.
    Het
    ri
    esagai
    n.
    Hi
    m:babe.
    .
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:woahsl
    owdownIcan'
    theary
    ou.
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Him:okjusttel
    lmewhereyouguy
    satcause
    Iser
    iouslycannotheary
    ou.
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:we'
    l
    lbet
    her
    enow/
    /
    Hi
    m:t
    hey'
    reatWandi
    l
    e'sbutsomet
    hingis
    wr
    ongTasha'
    svoi
    ceisfi
    ll
    edwit
    hpanick.
    Idon'
    tanswerIj
    ustr
    ushout
    .
    .
    .
    Wefi
    ndTashaseati
    ngoutsi
    dethegat
    eof
    Wandi
    le'
    shousebi
    twhere'
    sLenhl
    e?
    Khay
    a:babe.
    Shequi
    ckl
    yst
    andsupandt
    hrowsher
    sel
    fto
    Khay
    a.
    Her
    :wehav
    etof
    indher
    .
    Me:
    who?Wher
    e'smywi
    fe?
    Her
    :*wi
    pingoffhert
    ear
    s*sher
    anout
    f
    eari
    ngthatshewill
    hur
    tsomeone.
    Me:
    *conf
    used*
    uh?
    Shet
    ell
    sust
    hewhol
    ethi
    ngwi
    th
    Sbahl
    e,
    wowsot
    hatwasherpl
    an.
    Her
    :shetr
    iedtocal
    m downbutt
    hatdi
    dn'
    t
    goverywell
    .
    Khay
    a:whatdoy
    oumean?
    Sheshowsi
    sabl
    ockofi
    ce.
    Khay
    a:*
    conf
    used*
    abl
    ockofi
    ce?
    Her:
    that
    'sherphone,
    shefrozei
    t.
    ..
    ..
    wher
    ever
    sheisshe'
    sangryandit'
    snotgoodfort
    he
    babyorforhersur
    roundi
    ngs.
    Me:DAMNIT!Whydidshej
    umpi
    nto
    concl
    usi
    ons*f
    rust
    rat
    ed*
    Her
    :bot
    hyouandSbahlewerenowher
    eto
    beseenwhatdi
    dyouexpecthert
    othi
    nk?
    Vel
    ewherewereyou?
    Me:
    Idon'
    thavet
    imetoexplai
    nIhavet
    ofi
    nd
    mywif
    e,wher
    eareherbody
    guards?
    Her
    :ri
    ghtnowyoudon'
    tl
    ooklikeadrugged
    per
    sonsoIpraytogodthaty
    oudidn'
    tc..
    .
    Me:
    Khay
    aI'
    m of
    ftol
    ookf
    orher
    .
    Ir
    usht
    omycarandst
    artdr
    ivi
    ng.

    °
    Tasha°

    Me:Khayat
    ell
    mehedi
    dn'
    tdowhatIt
    hink
    hedid.
    Him:bothyouandMbali
    li
    kejumpi
    ngt
    o
    conclusi
    ons,doyour
    eal
    lyt
    hinkMJwoul
    d
    cheatonMbal i
    ?
    Iopenmymouthbutwor dsf
    ailmecauseI
    knowhewoul
    dn'tcheatonher.
    Me:sowhathappened?Wher
    ewer
    eyou
    guy
    s?
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    aroundcl
    ear
    ingourmi
    nds.
    Me:
    youexpectmet
    obel
    i
    evet
    hat
    ?
    Hi
    m:whywoul
    dn'
    tyou?
    Me:Mbali
    seesSbahl e'splanandwecome
    her
    etoputast optoi tbutwhenwegether e
    youguysarenowheret obeseeni ncl
    uding
    Sbahl
    e,
    andy ouexpectmet obel
    i
    ev ethat
    youwerearoundclear i
    ngy ourminds?
    Hi
    m:whydi
    dn'
    tyouj
    ustaskf
    ort
    hewhol
    e
    st
    ory
    ?
    Me:
    IguessIam now.
    Him:MJsawSbahl etryi
    ngtospikehis
    dri
    nk,
    heconf ront
    edherandSher an
    away*si
    ghs* MJgetsangr yeasi
    l
    ysoIdi dn'
    t
    wanthim doingsomet hi
    ngstupidsoo
    suggest
    edt hatwet akeadrivet
    oclearhis
    mind.
    Me:ohoknowthatI
    '
    vegott
    hewhol
    est
    oryI
    bel
    iev
    eyouandI'
    m sogl
    adMJsawwhat
    shewasaboutt
    odo.
    Hi
    m:met
    oobabe.
    Me:
    doy
    out
    hinkweshoul
    dtel
    lWandi
    l
    e?
    "
    Tel
    lmewhat
    ?"
    Webot
    hturnandf
    indWandilel
    ooki
    ngatus
    wi
    thhi
    shandsonhispocket
    s.

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ican'tseem t
    ogettheimageIcreatedin
    myheadoutofmyhead, Ikeepseei
    ngher
    ont opofhim.Themor eItr
    ytocalm down
    themor eIgetangr
    yandt hemorewi ndyi
    t
    gets..
    .Ihav
    etocalm downbeforeIhurt
    i
    nnocentpeopl
    e.
    Ikeepwalki
    ngwit
    hMj t
    hejaguarbrushi
    ng
    myt ummytryi
    ngtocal
    m down,i
    t'
    sgetti
    ng
    l
    ate.IpasssomeguyandIcanfeelhiseyes
    onme.
    "
    Sor
    rymi
    ss"
    tapi
    ngmyshoul
    der
    .
    Iqui
    ckl
    ytur
    npushi
    nghi
    m awayandhefl
    ies
    toatr
    eehit
    ti
    nghi
    sarm badl
    y,
    hel
    ooksat
    meshocked.
    Hi
    m:*
    groansi
    npai
    n*whati
    swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ou?
    Ir
    eall
    ywantt
    ohelpbutt
    heangeri
    sn'
    t
    al
    l
    owingmetodosocausewhoknows
    whatImi
    ghtdo.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    ry.
    Isighandwewalkaway,
    asI'
    m walki
    ngand
    passingot
    herpeopl
    eIcanal
    sofeelthei
    r
    eyesonme.
    Thi
    sti
    meIpass2guysIal
    sofeelt
    hei
    rey
    es
    onmeandIheart
    hem whi
    sper
    ing.
    "
    Nodudel
    et'
    sjustkeepwal
    ki
    ng"

    "
    Arey
    oubei
    ngser
    iousr
    ightnow?
    "

    "
    YesIam l
    et'
    sgo"

    "
    Lookather
    "

    "
    Lubabal
    omar
    n"

    "
    Nx,
    uhm excuseme!
    !?
    "

    Iqui
    ckl
    ytur
    n.
    Me:
    don'
    ttouchme.
    Mj
    thej
    aguari
    ssur
    pri
    singl
    ycal
    m.
    Hi
    m:l
    ookIdon'
    twantt
    ohur
    tyou.
    Me:
    okj
    ustdon'
    ttouchme.
    Het
    akesof
    fhi
    sjacketandhandsi
    ttome.
    Hi
    m:Ithi
    nky
    ou'
    reony
    ourper
    iodsy
    ou'
    re
    bl
    eedi
    ng.
    Myangersubsi
    desquickl
    yasfrostona
    wi
    ntermorni
    ngwhent hesuncomesupand
    myeyesgofrom bei
    ngsmalltohuge.
    Him:l
    ooktheset
    hingshappent
    her
    e'sno
    needtobeembarrassed.
    It
    ouchmyt
    ummyasIf
    eel
    li
    ght
    lypai
    n.
    Me:
    I'
    m notembar
    rassedI
    '
    m pr
    egnant
    .
    Thepai
    nkeepscomi
    ng,howcomeIdi
    dn'
    t
    feel
    anywhenIwasangry?
    Him:y
    esIcanseeyou'
    repr
    egnant
    ,it
    'ski
    nd
    ofhardnott
    onoti
    ce.
    Me:pregnantpeopl
    earen'
    tsupposet
    obl
    eed
    di
    dn'tyougot oschool
    ?
    Him:*
    panicks*
    ohGoduhhdudecomewe
    havetohelpherIdon'
    tknowhowbut
    ..
    .
    Theotherguy:
    youhavegottobekiddi
    ng
    me,what'
    sshedoinginthest
    reet
    sthisl
    ate
    knowi
    ngv er
    ywellshe'
    spregnant
    ?
    Lubabal
    o:st
    opaski
    ngusel
    essquest
    ions
    dude.
    Guy:
    noIcantel
    lthatshe'
    str
    ouble,
    who
    knowsmaybeherparentski
    ckedheroutor
    maybeherbabydaddydidandIdonotwant
    tobeinv
    olv
    ed.
    Thi
    sti
    met
    hepai
    ncomesatagr
    eat
    erf
    orce.
    Lubabal
    o:st
    opbei
    ngaj
    erkdude.
    Hi
    m: y
    oudidreadSmanga'
    stextr
    ight
    ?
    Pr
    incessMbalenhl
    eisatt
    hatpar
    tya.
    .
    Me:sor
    rycoul
    dyouj
    ustbor
    rowmey
    our
    phone.
    Hi
    m:whatwi
    l
    lyoudowi
    thi
    t?
    Ohgodthi
    sguy,
    acarparksnextt
    ousoh
    t
    hankgoditMJ'
    s.
    ..
    .her
    ushestome.
    Hi
    m:babey
    ou'
    rebl
    eedi
    ngwhat'sgoi
    ngon?
    Di
    dyoutwohur
    tmywife?Isweari
    fyoudi
    d
    y.
    .
    Lubabal
    o:nowedi
    dn'
    twewer
    ejustt
    ryi
    ng
    tohel
    p.
    Me:MJtakemet
    othenearesthospi
    tal
    bef
    oreIl
    osemybabyahh.
    Hepicksmeupandrunstothecar,
    opens
    thedoorMj
    thej
    aguargetsi
    nf i
    rstt
    henhe
    putsmeint
    ooandrushestothedri
    cres
    seatandst
    art
    sthei
    gni
    ti
    on.
    Hi
    m: hangi
    nther
    ebabepl
    easej
    usthangi
    n
    t
    here.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Lubabal
    o:y
    ou'
    resuchadi
    ckdoy
    ouknow
    that
    ?
    Zamo: aghwhatev
    erl
    et'
    sgosoocanmeet
    pri
    ncessMbalenhl
    e.
    Lubabal
    o:*
    rol
    l
    shi
    sey
    es*
    whati
    fshe'
    sugl
    y?
    Zamo:j
    udgi
    ngbyhowpeopl
    espeakofherI
    doubtt
    hatshe'
    sugl
    y.
    Lubabalo:
    orwecouldjustsearchherupon
    I
    nstagram toseehowshel ooksifshe'
    snot
    hotIswearI'm nol
    ongergoingtothepart
    y
    causeI
    '
    m nol
    ongerf
    eel
    i
    ngl
    i
    kegoi
    ng.
    Zamo:dudeI
    '
    mt el
    l
    ingy
    oushe'
    shotokl
    et'
    s
    sear
    chherup.
    Zamotakesouthi
    sphoneandsear
    ches
    Mbal
    enhleMthembu.
    Zamo:ther
    e'snopr
    incessMbal
    enhl
    e
    her
    e*scrol
    li
    ng*
    Lubabal
    o:wai
    t,
    may
    bet
    hat
    'sherl
    ookather
    fol
    lower
    s.
    Zamo:
    dudet
    hisi
    sMbal
    enhl
    eMkhi
    ze.
    Lubabal
    o:wai
    tgot
    oherpr
    ofi
    l
    e.
    Zamotapsherpr
    ofil
    eandv
    iewsherpr
    ofi
    l
    e
    pi
    ctur
    eandboththei
    rmout
    hsarel
    eft
    hangi
    ng.
    Lubabal
    o:t
    hisi
    sthegi
    rlwej
    ..noIt
    ri
    edt
    o
    hel
    p.
    Zamo:
    okmay bei
    t'
    sbecauseit'
    sgett
    ing
    dar
    kandforthef
    actsthatIdi
    dn'
    tpayto
    muchatt
    enti
    ontoherdamnshe'shot.
    Lubabal
    osnat
    chesthephonefr
    om hi
    m
    whil
    erol
    li
    nghi
    seyesandstart
    sscr
    oll
    ing
    downonMbalenhl
    e'
    swall.
    Zamo: t
    heonlywayforustoseeMbal
    enhl
    e
    i
    sf orustogotothatpar
    tysi
    ncewecan'
    t
    fi
    ndhert her
    e.
    Lubabal
    o'
    spopout
    .
    Zamo:
    what
    ?Di
    dyouf
    indher
    ?
    Lubabal
    o:i
    t'
    sher
    ,t
    hegi
    rli
    t'
    sher
    .
    Zamo:
    yeahi
    t'
    sherso?
    Lubabalo:
    nomar
    nZamot
    hegi
    rlshe'
    sthe
    pri
    ncess.
    Zamosnat
    chesbackhi
    sphoneandl
    ooks
    att
    hephotoMbal
    ipost
    edaf
    terherweddi
    ng
    wit
    hthecapt
    iont
    hatr
    eadsl
    i
    kethis:
    -
    "Nolongerpr
    incessMbalenhl
    eMthembu,
    I'
    m nowMbalenhl eMJMkhizebutI
    'l
    l
    alwaysbetheprincessoft
    heBantu
    Kingdom"
    Lubabal
    o:howdoyoufeelknowi
    ngt
    haty
    ou
    weremeant oapr
    incess?Nxx.

    °
    Tasha°

    Wandi:
    areyouguysmessi
    ngwi
    thme?
    Causetr
    ustmeit'
    sworki
    ng.
    Me:
    doy
    out
    hinkwewoul
    djokel
    i
    ket
    hat
    ?
    HelooksatmeandKhay
    awi
    thapai
    ned
    l
    ook.
    Hi
    m:Ineedsomeai
    r*wal
    ksaway
    *
    Me:
    wel
    lthatdi
    dn'
    tgobad.
    Khay
    a:ser
    iousl
    y?
    Me:
    whatdoy
    oumean?
    Hi
    m:wear
    eout
    sidebutheneedssomeai
    r.
    Uhyeahhe'
    spr
    ett
    yfuckedupbutwho
    woul
    dn't
    .
    Him:l
    etmet
    ryMJandseei
    fhehasf
    ound
    her.
    Inodashecal
    l
    shi
    m.
    Hi
    m:sur
    e,hav
    eyouf
    oundher
    ?
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    .
    Hi
    m:What
    ?Shi
    twhathappened?
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:okwhi
    chhospi
    tal
    arey
    ouat
    ?
    .
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    m:okwe'
    l
    lber
    ightt
    her
    e//
    Me:
    what
    'swr
    ong?
    Him:l
    et'
    sgoMbalii
    satthehospi
    tal
    MJsai
    d
    hefoundherbl
    eedi
    ng.
    Me:
    ohgod*t
    ear
    sst
    ream down
    i
    mmediat
    ely
    *
    Werushtot
    hecarandKhayat
    akesoff
    ,I
    '
    m
    st
    art
    ingt
    othi
    nkthatt
    hehospi
    tal
    lov
    esher.
    Whydoesbadthi
    ngsal
    way
    sfi
    ndt
    hei
    rway
    t
    oherall
    thet
    ime.

    °
    Siphosenkosi
    °

    Lewi
    s:what
    'sup?Youdon'
    tl
    ookgood.
    Me:
    nahI
    '
    m goodi
    justhav
    eal
    otonmy
    mi
    nd.
    Hi
    m:y
    oual
    way
    ssayt
    hat
    .
    Me:
    mysi
    steri
    snotokayIcanf
    eel
    it.
    Hi
    m:It
    houghtt
    hatonl
    yhappenst
    otwi
    ns.
    Isi
    ghf
    eel
    i
    ngweak.
    Hi
    m:Iwi
    l
    lnev
    erunder
    standy
    ou.
    Me:
    tr
    ustmenooneher
    eev
    erwi
    l
    l.
    Him:i
    nS.Ait'sprobablyatnightnowandI'
    m
    sureyoursi
    sterissleepingpeaceful
    ly,
    you
    needtobef ull
    yfocusedcauset hetasksf
    or
    todayareabouttost ar
    t.
    Me:
    i
    t'
    snotaseasyasy
    ouputi
    t.
    Isayt
    hatst
    andi
    ngup.
    IdoubtthatIwil
    lbefocusedontoday
    's
    tasksfeel
    ingl
    ikethi
    s,Ihopeandpr
    aythat
    Mbalenhlegetsbett
    erfrom t
    hepai
    nshe'si
    n.
    Lewi
    s:*
    sighs*
    Ipi
    tyy
    ousomet
    imes.
    Me:
    don'
    tpl
    ease,
    thati
    sthel
    astt
    hingIneed.
    Hi
    m:*
    sighs*
    let
    'sgo.
    Wewal
    koutt
    ojoi
    ntheot
    her
    s.

    Cont
    inuat
    ion¶

    MJ:
    whyareyoupl
    ayi
    ngwit
    hyourfood?I
    t
    houghty
    ousaidy
    ouwerehungr
    y.
    Me:
    Iwas.
    Hi
    m:what
    'swrong?Don'
    ttel
    lmei
    t'
    smy
    bi
    rt
    hdayt
    hingi
    e.
    Me:
    atl
    eastt
    ell
    mewhyy
    oudon'
    tcel
    ebr
    atei
    t
    t
    henI'
    l
    ldropi
    t.
    Her
    oll
    shi
    sey
    esandf
    ocusonhi
    sfood.
    Me:
    *standi
    ngup*okthenI
    '
    llbeonmyway
    t
    oZ'yanda'
    shouse.
    Hi
    m:what
    ?Ithoughtweagr
    eedt
    haty
    ou'
    l
    l
    st
    ayi
    ndoorsandrest
    .
    Me:
    j
    eezMJI
    '
    m pr
    egnantnotsi
    ck.
    Him:babey
    ou'
    real
    most10months
    pr
    egnantmaybeal
    lyouneedt
    odoisrest
    sothebabi
    escancomeoutal
    ready
    .
    Me:thedoctorsaidI
    'mfine,
    youwer ealso
    ther
    ewer en'
    tyou?andyouinsi
    stedt hatI
    shouldrest,
    al
    lI'
    vebeendoingisrestI'm
    ti
    redofresti
    ngnow.
    Hi
    m:butbabe.
    ..
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lseey
    oul
    ater
    .
    Iki
    sshi
    scheekandwal
    koutwi
    thMj
    the
    j
    aguar
    .

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    Zugo,Tom,Chr
    is,
    Khaya,
    Siy
    aandBongaar
    e
    chi
    ll
    ingatTom'shousedrinki
    ngwhi
    l
    e
    watchingsomefootbal
    l
    .
    Zugo:
    Chr
    is.
    Chr
    is:
    yah.
    Zugo:
    what
    'supwi
    thy
    ouandBel
    l
    a?
    Chr
    is:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    thati
    snoneofy
    ourbusi
    ness.
    Si
    ya:
    hissmi
    l
    ehassai
    dital
    l
    .
    Tom:
    *chuckl
    es*
    damnatl
    ast
    .
    Chri
    s:yeahnehwel
    li
    twasl
    ongov
    erduebut
    at
    leastshe'
    sminenow.
    Theguy
    swhi
    stl
    elooki
    ngathi
    m.
    Chr
    is:
    *l
    aughs*
    stopbei
    ngchi
    l
    dish.
    Khay
    a:andTom.
    Tom:
    andme?
    Khay a:
    areyoumakingprogr
    esson
    forgett
    ingaboutthel
    adywhotookyour
    breathaway ?
    *chuckl
    es*
    Tom:
    eidon'
    task.
    *takesasi
    pofhi
    sbeer
    *
    Khay
    a:guessnot
    .
    Bonga:
    can'
    tbel
    i
    eveyoudidn'tevenaskfor
    hercel
    l
    phonenumberoratleasthername.
    Tom:
    Iwasn'
    tthi
    nki
    ngst
    rai
    ght
    .
    Siy
    a:ofcour
    seyouwer
    en'
    tImeany
    ou
    for
    gotourfood.
    Tom:eiy
    ouandKhayasameWhat
    sApp
    groupwheni
    tcomestofood.
    Si
    ya:
    thati
    snott
    rue.
    Zugo:
    *l
    aughs*
    yesi
    t'
    str
    ue,
    how'
    sschool
    sby
    theway?
    Si
    ya:
    i
    t'
    sgood.
    Bonga:whatar
    eyoupl
    anni
    ngonst
    udy
    ing
    nextyear
    ?
    Si
    ya:
    Law.
    Bonga:
    aiai
    Khay
    a:what
    ?
    Bonga:
    didy
    oui
    nfl
    uencehi
    mtost
    udyl
    aw?
    Khay
    a:no,
    don'
    tbej
    eal
    oust
    hatheseesme
    ashi
    srolemodel
    .
    Si
    ya:
    act
    ual
    l
    yit
    'sMbal
    iandTasha.
    Theguy
    s:shuuuuuu.
    Bonga:
    *l
    aughs*
    thatmustbur
    n.
    Khaya:
    real
    l
    ySi
    yay
    oucoul
    dn'
    tj
    ustl
    etme
    shi
    ne.
    Si
    ya:
    youshoul
    d'
    vebr
    ibedmet
    hen.
    Bonga:
    wheny ouwerest
    il
    li
    nschool befor
    e
    dr
    oppingout
    ,didyouwanttobealawy eror
    i
    sitsomethi
    ngy ouar
    eonlyreal
    i
    zingnow?
    Siya:notexact ly,Ikeptchangi ngthecar eer
    thatIwanti nmymi nd,whenIwasi ngr ade
    9Iwant edt obeaPi l
    otbutt henIhear d
    storiesofdanger oust hingst hatmi ght
    happenupt here,Ithengott hethoughtof
    beingaPi l
    otoutofmyhead. .
    whenIwasi n
    grade10Ir eal
    izedt hatI '
    m goodi nf ootball
    andmycoacht oldmet hatIwasgoodand
    thathecoul dhel pmegeti nthefoot ball
    i
    ndust r
    yIwasdownf ort hatbutthenI
    l
    ear nedt hatify ouacci dentallybreaky our
    l
    egi nt hef ootball i
    ndust r
    yy ouaredonef or
    goodt heyjustdi tchyouandy ourcar eeris
    overj ustli
    ket hat.Ithenl ostinter
    esti n
    playingf ootball
    ...
    .ingrade11Iwant edt obe
    anAr chi
    tect .
    Tom&Chr
    is:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    Ahhhhh.
    Si
    ya:
    what
    ?
    Zugo:
    * r
    ollshi
    sey
    es*
    theyar
    ebot
    h
    Archi
    tects.
    Si
    ya:
    whatabouty
    ou?
    Zugo:wel
    lI'
    m act
    ual
    lydoi
    ng2car eersI'
    ma
    busi
    nessmanbutnotbypr of
    essi
    onj ust
    ful
    fi
    ll
    i
    ngmymom' swish,
    shestar
    tedt he
    famil
    ybusinessf
    ormeandmysi blingsIdo
    gotheret
    ocheckont hi
    ngsonceinawhi l
    e.
    Si
    ya:
    cool
    .
    Bonga:
    what
    'st
    heot
    hercar
    eer
    ?
    Zugo:
    Biomedi
    cal
    Sci
    ent
    ist
    .
    Tom:
    nxx.
    Zugo:
    andTom her
    ehat
    est
    hef
    actt
    hatI
    '
    m
    smart
    erthanhi
    m.
    Theguy
    schuckl
    e.
    Khay
    a:ni
    ggayoumustbeloadedwi
    th
    money,
    canyoubemyBlesser?
    Zugo:
    ewwno.
    Chri
    s:*
    laughs*nxany
    waySiy
    awhatmade
    youthi
    nkt wi
    ceaboutbei
    nganAr
    chi
    tect
    ?
    Si
    ya:
    not
    hingact
    ual
    l
    y.
    Chri
    s:mmm sowhatdoy our
    eal
    lyl
    ove
    betweenbei
    ngal
    awy erandbei
    ngan
    Archi
    tect
    ?
    Siy
    a:ingrade11Ionl yjustl
    ikedArchi
    tect
    butsearchingmor eaboutitmademef all
    i
    nlov ewithitIcouldn'
    twaittogotov ar
    sit
    y
    tostudyabouti tbutthenli
    fehappened.
    Chr
    is:
    Law?
    Si
    ya:
    hear
    ingTashaandMbal
    ital
    kabouti
    t
    mademecuri
    ous,t
    heirpri
    cel
    essfaces
    whent
    heyt
    alkaboutsteppi
    ngincourt
    .
    Bonga:t
    omei tseemsl
    i
    keyoust i
    l
    lhaveto
    thi
    nkwhatexactlyy
    ouwantcauseyou'
    re
    sti
    l
    lindeci
    siv
    e.
    Tom:andyouMrwhoal
    waysdi
    sappearon
    us.Whati
    sitt
    haty
    oudo?
    Bonga:*
    chuckl
    es*wel
    lI'
    m st
    il
    last
    udent
    ,
    par
    ttimestudent
    .
    Tom:
    I'
    m ser
    iousBonga.
    Bonga:
    met
    oo.
    Tom:
    Khay
    aishet
    ell
    i
    ngt
    het
    rut
    h?
    Khay
    a:uhhe'
    snotl
    yi
    ng.
    Zugo:
    thenwhydoy
    oual
    way
    sdi
    sappear
    ?
    Bonga:
    wor
    k.
    Tom:
    dudest
    opmessi
    ngwi
    thourheads.
    Bonga:*
    chuckl
    es* I
    '
    m notbuttoputyouout
    ofyourmiser
    y,Iworkandstudy.
    .andwit
    h
    theworkI'
    m doingiti
    snoteasytojuggl
    e
    thetwobutIhav etocauseIwanttoqui
    t
    thi
    sjobI'
    m doi
    ng.
    Tom:
    why
    ?
    Bonga:
    odon'
    tl
    ikei
    t.
    Zugo:
    whatjobi
    sitthaty
    oudot
    hatmakes
    youtr
    avel
    thismuch?
    Bonga:
    I'
    m aTr
    avel
    Agent
    .
    Theguys,
    wel
    lex
    ceptKhay
    agoesl
    i
    ke
    "ohwww"
    Si
    ya:
    i
    fyoudon'
    tl
    ikei
    t,
    thenwhyst
    udyi
    t?
    Bonga:
    hadt
    ogetawayf
    rom myf
    ami
    l
    y.
    Si
    ya:
    why
    ?
    Khay
    a:*
    clear
    shi
    sthr
    oat
    *st
    oryf
    oranot
    her
    day
    .
    Theycont
    inuetal
    ki
    ngaboutsomeother
    bunchofstuf
    fsgett
    ingt
    oknoweachother
    more.

    ~i
    nser
    t78~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Theweekwentbyf astandMJst i
    lldoesn't
    wantt otell mewhyhedoesn' tcel
    ebr at
    ehis
    bir
    thday ,
    ifhecant ellmewhyhedoesn' t
    celebrateI'l
    lstopnagginghim about
    i
    t..
    ..anywayt odaywear elearningthe
    weddi ngst epwellI'
    llbej
    ustwat ching,my
    bri
    desmai dsarealreadyhereandt heguy s
    arel at
    eall oft
    hem. ..
    MJisinhi sofficeI
    don'tknowwhati shedoi ng,hewokeup
    crankytodayhedi dn'
    tev engr eetmet his
    mor ni
    nghe'sjustcold..
    .hewokeupand
    tookashoweraf t
    erthatIt ri
    edkissi
    nghi m
    goodmor ni
    ngbuthej ustl ookedtheot her
    wayandwal kedtohisof ficeandlocked
    himselfinthere,
    hehasn'tsai dasinglewor d.
    Tasha:
    babe,
    wher
    eyouat
    ?
    Me:
    I'
    mjustthi
    nki
    ng,
    whatdoesKhay
    asay
    ?
    Wher
    earethey?
    Tasha:
    hesai
    dtheyar
    e"ar
    oundt
    hecor
    ner
    ".
    Sne:t
    heybet
    terhur
    ryupcauseIst
    il
    lhav
    eto
    dri
    veall
    thewaybackhome.
    Tasha:
    whydon'
    tyoucr
    ushwi
    thmef
    or
    thesef
    ewdays?
    Bel
    la:
    yeahthat
    'sagr
    eati
    dea,
    plusy
    ou'
    l
    lbe
    sav
    ingpetr
    ol.
    Sne:okI
    '
    m downwiththat
    ,butIst
    illhav
    eto
    dri
    vebacksoIcanpacksomecl othesI
    guessI'
    l
    lst
    artcr
    ashi
    ngwithy outomorrow.
    Me:
    greatt
    hen,oksopart
    ners.
    ..Zeey
    ouar
    e
    wi
    thyourhusbandofcourse.
    Z'
    yanda:
    *smi
    l
    es*
    obv
    iousl
    y.
    Tasha:
    andI
    '
    m wi
    thKhay
    a.
    Me:
    obv
    iousl
    y.
    Bel
    l
    a:andI
    '
    m wi
    thChr
    is.
    Z'
    yanda:
    uLaLa.
    Tasha:
    det
    ail
    spl
    ease.
    Bel
    l
    a:*
    blushes*
    itst
    il
    lnew.
    Nandi
    pha:
    wuuhl
    ookaty
    oubl
    ushi
    ng.
    Bel
    l
    a:whatcanIsayi
    tjusthappened.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    can'
    tsayIdi
    dn'
    tseei
    tcomi
    ng.
    Sne:
    whataboutmeandNandi
    pha?
    Me:well
    Ican'
    texactl
    ychoosefory
    ou,you
    guy
    swi l
    lchooseforyour
    sel
    vesbetween
    Tom andBonga.
    Sne:
    who'
    sBonga?Washet
    her
    eony
    our
    weddi
    ng?
    Me:
    nohewasn'
    t
    ,you'
    l
    lmeethi
    mjustnow.
    Shenods, t
    rul
    yspeakingIhadalreadydone
    mat chupsinmyhead, Tom&Nandiphathen
    Sne&BongabutIwi lll
    etthem deci
    defor
    themselves.Welli
    tisabouttime..
    .t
    heguys
    walkinlaughingandwet urntofacethem
    waittheylookdrunkohheav enl
    yFather
    pleasehelpmenotki l
    l t
    hem.
    Khay
    a:Baby
    !!
    Forsomer
    easonTom fr
    eezesnotbl
    i
    nki
    ngI
    fol
    l
    owhisgazewhi
    chleadsri
    ghtt
    o
    Nandi
    phaandshe'
    sal
    solooki
    ngathi
    m uhh
    am Imi
    ssi
    ngsomethi
    nghere?
    Z'
    yanda:
    aghmar
    nZugost
    opt
    ouchi
    ngme.
    Khaya:
    *l
    aughs*Zugodon'
    tyouwisht
    obe
    me?Imeanl ookatmyladyshe'
    ssmil
    ingat
    meshedoesn'tcaret
    hatI'
    m dr
    unkri
    ght
    babe.
    Tasha:*
    smi l
    es*yesbabebutyouaren'
    t
    gett
    inganytonightnowgodrinksome
    wateryoucan'tlear
    naweddingstepwhen
    you'
    rethisdrunk.
    Khay
    a:what
    ?You'
    reki
    ddi
    ngr
    ight
    ?
    Theguy
    slaughathi
    m wel
    lexceptTom.
    Me:
    Tom?
    Hesl
    owl
    ytur
    nst
    olookatme.
    Me:
    arey
    ouokay
    ?
    Hi
    m:Ineedai
    r.
    Hetur
    nswal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    hedoorbutt
    hen
    t
    urns.
    Tom:
    noact
    ual
    l
    yIneedwat
    er.
    Hesay
    sthatashewal
    kst
    otheki
    tchen.
    Me:
    Chr
    iswhat
    'supwi
    thhi
    m?
    I
    'm aski
    ngChri
    scausehe'
    stheonlyone
    whoseemssaney eahhe'
    snotsoberbut
    he'
    sbettert
    hanZugo,
    KhayaandBonga.
    Chr
    is:
    *shr
    ugs*
    hewasgoodwhenwe
    wal
    kedin.
    It
    rytositupbutf
    ail
    ,
    theyguy
    sendup
    l
    aughingatmenxx.
    Me:
    whyar
    eyoul
    aughi
    ng?Comehel
    pmeup.
    Bongahelpsmeupwhil
    elaughi
    ng,Igot
    o
    theki
    tchenwher
    eIf
    indTom dri
    nki
    ngwater
    .
    Me:
    hey
    .
    Hi
    m:hey
    .
    Me:what
    'swr
    ong?DoyouknowNandipha?I
    sawthewayyouwer
    elooki
    ngather
    .
    Hi
    m:i
    t'
    sher
    .
    Me:
    uh?
    Him:
    thegir
    lIt
    oldy
    ouabout
    ,t
    hegi
    rlI
    bumpedint
    o.
    Myl
    i
    pscur
    vesf
    ormi
    ngasmi
    l
    e.
    Me:WowIt otal
    lydidn'texpectt
    his,so
    Nandiphaistheladyt hathasbeenst uckon
    yourheadfor3mont hsplusyout wocould
    makear eall
    ygreatcoupl eyouknow?
    Hi
    m:*chuckl
    es*sheknowsmeforbei
    ng
    wei
    rd,
    I'
    m notsureshewoul
    ddateaweir
    do.
    Me:
    l
    ookwho'
    stal
    ki
    ngaboutdat
    ing,
    ohgod
    At
    hiwoul
    dber
    eal
    l
    yhappyi
    fhewasher
    e.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    yeahhewoul
    d.
    Me:
    younol
    ongerl
    ookdr
    unk.
    Hi
    m:justseei
    nghermademesober,
    I
    t
    houghtIwasdreamingIt
    houghtmy
    i
    maginati
    onwasplayi
    nggameswithme.
    Me:
    whyi
    sthatso?
    Him:causef orthelast3mont hsI'
    vebeen
    wishingtobumpi ntoheragainIgotot hat
    mall f
    orli
    ke3t imesaweekhopi ngthatI '
    l
    l
    bumpt oherbutIdidn'tsoIthoughtit
    woul dbebesti fIj
    ustforgetabouther.
    ..so
    seeingherher eIwasn'tsurewhethermy
    i
    magi nati
    oni sshowingmewhatI '
    vebeen
    yearningtosee.
    Me:
    wel
    lnowshe'
    sher
    e,howdoy
    ouf
    eel
    ?
    Hi
    m:ner
    vous,
    Idon'
    tev
    enknowwhatI
    '
    llf
    ir
    st
    sayt
    oher
    .
    Me:
    youalwaysknowwhatt
    osay
    ,younev
    er
    r
    unoutofthi
    ngstosay
    .
    "
    Mbal
    i
    "
    It
    urnandl
    ookatKhay
    a.
    Hi
    m:canIt
    alkt
    oyouf
    orasec.
    Tom:l
    etmegi
    vey ousomespace.
    *wal
    ki
    ng
    backt
    othesi
    tt
    ingroom*
    Me:
    what
    'sup.
    Hi
    m:wher
    e'sMJ?
    Me:
    i
    nhi
    sst
    udy
    .
    Hi
    m:howi
    she?
    Il
    ookathi
    m cur
    iousl
    y.
    Me:
    Idon'
    tknow.
    Hi
    m:si
    ncewe'
    l
    lbel
    ear
    ningt
    heweddi
    ng
    stepher
    eIt
    hinki
    tbestofhegoest
    omy
    house.
    Me:
    why
    ?
    Hi
    m:uhm uhl
    etmegot
    alkt
    ohi
    m.
    Me:
    Khayawhat
    'sgoi
    ngon?What
    'swr
    ong
    wi
    thhi
    m?
    Hi
    m:not
    hing.
    Me:hehasn'tsai
    dasingl
    ewor dtome,I
    purposel
    yranoutofourroom buthedi
    dn'
    t
    evenrepri
    mandmel i
    kehealway sdosayi
    ng
    Ishouldbecaref
    ulI
    'l
    lhur
    tmy sel
    f.
    Hi
    m:uhm l
    etmegocheckuponhi
    m.
    Me:
    goodl
    uckwi
    tht
    hat
    .
    HewalksoutandIalsogoj oi
    ntheother
    sI
    fi
    ndt
    hem insti
    tches,i
    tseemsl i
    keZugois
    si
    ngi
    ngtoanannoy edZ'yanda.
    Zugo:
    Idon'
    tknowwho'
    sgonnaki
    ssy
    ou
    whenI'
    m gone
    SoI
    '
    m gonnal
    ovey
    ounow
    Li
    kei
    t'
    sal
    lIhav
    e
    Iknowi
    twi
    l
    lki
    l
    lmewheni
    t'
    sov
    er
    Idon'
    twannat
    hinkabouti
    t
    Iwanty
    out
    olov
    emenow
    Idon'
    tknowwho'
    sgonnaki
    ssy
    ouwhenI
    '
    m
    gone
    SoI
    '
    m gonnal
    ovey
    ounow
    Li
    kei
    t'
    sal
    lIhav
    e
    Iknow.
    ..
    Z'
    yanda:
    Zugomar
    n.
    Sheisblushi
    ngali
    tt
    lebutIt
    hinkwhat'
    s
    annoyi
    ngherist
    hathekeepspulli
    ng
    her.
    ..
    andIhavet
    osayZugo'ssingi
    ngvoice
    doesn'
    tsoundssobad.
    Zugo:
    comeonnowmywi f
    e,mot
    herofmy
    beaut
    if
    ulchi
    l
    ddancewi
    thme.
    Me:
    ahhhh.
    Ihol
    dmyt
    ummyf
    eel
    i
    ngbear
    abl
    epai
    n.
    Nandi
    pha:
    arey
    ouokay
    ?
    Me:
    yeahy
    eahI
    '
    m good.
    Tasha:
    yousur
    e?
    Me:yeah,
    youshoul
    dmovet
    het
    abl
    esoy
    ou
    guy
    scangetst ar
    ted.
    Theyall
    situpandKhay
    acomesback
    l
    ookingdefeat
    ed.
    Me:
    and?
    Khaya:
    hei
    sn'
    topeni
    ngupf
    ormeorev
    en
    tal
    ki
    ngtome.
    Me:
    Iahhhh.
    Okt
    hepai
    nisst
    art
    ingt
    ogetunbear
    abl
    e.
    Khay
    a:what
    'st
    hemat
    ter
    ?
    Isi
    tupandwal
    kupanddownwhi
    chseems
    tobeworki
    ngf
    ort
    hepai
    n.
    Sne:
    whati
    supwi
    thy
    ou?
    Me:
    youguy
    scanst
    art
    .
    Theymov ethetableandst artbutI'm not
    focusingont hem Ijustkeeponwal king
    aroundwhi chseemst obenotwor king
    anymor eIneedt odosomet hingohIhav e
    anIidea...
    .Igotf
    illabucketwi thwat erand
    takeamopt henheadbackandst art
    mopi ngthef l
    oor
    .
    Bonga:
    Mbal
    iIknowt
    hatI
    'm drunkbutI
    thi
    nkyouar
    elosi
    ngi
    tali
    tt
    le.
    Me:
    I'
    m not
    .
    Bonga:
    thefl
    oorisspot
    less,
    whatar
    eyou
    mopingexact
    ly.
    Me:
    aghl
    eav
    emeal
    one.
    Icont
    inuemopinganditseemsli
    ket
    he
    weddingst
    episgoingter
    ri
    bleZugoi
    s
    ever
    ywhereandTom issoquiet
    .
    It
    akethemopandbucketupthest
    air
    sand
    st
    artmopi
    ngthest
    air
    sgoingdown.
    Themopi nggoesforsometi
    mebutI '
    m not
    sureit
    'shel
    pinganymoreIl
    eavet
    hemop
    andthebucketandheadtoMJ'sstudyand
    star
    tbangingthedoor.
    Me:
    OPENTHI
    SFUCKENDOORMJ!
    !
    Okbreat
    hMbal
    ibr
    eat
    h..
    Idon'
    tknowwhat
    '
    s
    goi
    ngonwit
    hme.
    MJdoesn'
    topent
    hedoor
    .
    Me:
    babepl
    easeo.
    ..
    Ahhhhhhhh.
    IswearI'
    m bei
    ngslaught
    eredher
    e,t
    hedoor
    swingsopenwithanaler
    tedMJ.
    Hi
    m:what
    'swr
    ong?
    *hi
    svoi
    cesoundsbol
    d*
    Myt
    ear
    sjustf
    all
    downmycheeks.
    Hi
    m:whyar
    eyoucr
    ying?Ar
    eyouok?
    Me:
    thi
    sist
    hef
    ir
    stt
    imey
    ou'
    ret
    alki
    ngt
    ome.
    Heget
    sclosertomebutIpushhi
    minst
    ead
    andst
    arthi
    tt
    inghi
    m.
    Me:howcoul
    dyoul
    ocky
    our
    sel
    fupi
    nher
    e
    wi
    thoutki
    ssi
    ngme?
    Hehol
    dmyhand.
    Me:
    l
    etmego.
    Westar
    thandfi
    ght
    ingashe'
    snotl
    ett
    inggo
    ofmyhands.
    Me:
    Jasonl
    etgoof
    ..
    wai
    t!
    Iqui
    ckl
    ylookdownthenqui
    ckl
    ylookupt
    o
    hi
    m wit
    hmyey esal
    lout.
    Hi
    m:Lenhl
    ear
    eyouokay
    ?Causey
    ..
    Me:
    mywat
    erj
    ustbr
    oke.
    Hi
    m:whatwat
    er?
    Me:
    YOURKI
    DSARECOMI
    NG!
    !
    "Wehearshout
    ingar
    eyouguysok"
    Khay
    a
    say
    swithevery
    onebehi
    ndhim.
    MJ:
    herwat
    erj
    ustbr
    oke.
    Tom:
    *chuckl
    es*
    wat
    erdoesn'
    tbr
    eak.
    Painhi
    tsmehardIscr
    eam f
    eel
    i
    ngl
    i
    ke
    rol
    l
    ingonthef
    loor
    .
    Tasha:
    WEHAVETOGETHERTOTHE
    HOSPITALEVERYBODYMOVE!
    !
    MJpicksmeuprunsoutwi
    thmeand
    ev
    ery
    onefol
    lowsincl
    udi
    ngMjt
    hejaguaroh
    godI
    '
    m nev
    erf
    all
    i
    ngpr
    egnantev
    eragai
    n.
    Khay
    a:MJar
    eyouokay
    ?
    MJ:
    NOKHAYAIAM NOTOKAY!
    !
    Khay
    a:chi
    l
    lman.
    MJ:domykidsreal
    l
    yhavetocomet
    oday
    ?
    Outofal
    lthedayswhyt
    oday.
    Me:FUCKMJDOYOUWANTMETOGI
    VE
    BI
    RTHHERE.
    Hequi
    ckl
    ygetsi
    nwit
    hKhayaatfr
    ontandI
    si
    twi
    thTashaatt
    hebackscr
    eaming.
    Me:
    Somebodycal
    lmymot
    her
    !!

    ~i
    nser
    t79~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed
    MJi spacingupanddownnott hi
    nki
    ng
    str
    aight
    ...
    whent heygottothehospi
    tal
    about3hour sagot hedoctorsai
    dLenhl
    e
    wasn'tr
    eadyy ettogivebir
    th,
    MJcouldn'
    tsi
    t
    andwat chhiswifeinsuchpainthat
    'swhy
    heexcusedhi mself.
    Khay
    a:br
    oh
    MJj
    ustl
    ooksathi
    m.
    Khaya:youdoknowt
    haty
    oucan'
    tcont
    rol
    thi
    sright?
    MJst
    il
    ldoesn'
    tsayany
    thi
    ng.
    Khaya:
    Iknowt hatthi
    sisoneofthedays
    youreall
    ydespisebutyourbabi
    esare
    comingandt here'
    snothi
    ngyoucando
    aboutthatI
    ..
    MJ:
    Khay
    adon'
    tyout
    hinkIknowt
    hat
    !?
    Khaya:FUCKMJTHENTALKTOSOMEONE!
    Youhav eareasontonotli
    kethisdaybut
    from t
    odayyouhav eareasontonotjust
    l
    ikeitbuttoLoveit
    ,soifyoufeell
    ikethi
    sis
    toomuchf oryouthent
    alktosomeone.
    MJ:
    *si
    ghs*
    I.
    .
    "MrMkhi
    ze?She'
    sreadybutsherefusesto
    pushwi
    thouty
    ourpresence"
    adoctorsays.
    MJ:
    l
    eadt
    hewaydoct
    or.
    MJfoll
    owsthedoctortothelaborr
    oom
    wherehef
    indsLenhlesurr
    oundedbysome
    nur
    sessweati
    ngandbr eathi
    ngheavy.
    Doc:
    okmam youhavet
    opushnowbef
    ore
    youhur
    tthebabi
    es.
    MJhol
    dsLenhl
    e'
    shand.
    MJ:
    I'
    mri
    ghther
    ebabepl
    easepush.
    Doc:
    1,2,
    3push!
    !!
    Shescreamsherl
    ungsoutpushi
    ngal
    so
    squeezi
    ngMJ'shandr
    eall
    yhard.
    Doc:
    okbr
    eat
    h.
    Shebr
    eat
    hs.
    Doc:
    1,2,
    3push!
    !!
    Thi
    sgoesf
    orsomet
    ime.
    ..
    .
    Doc:Iseet
    hehead,
    push!
    !*
    hit
    ti
    ngLenhl
    e'
    s
    thi
    ghs*
    MJ:*
    givest
    hedoct
    oradeadst
    are*
    notso
    har
    djeez.
    Lenhl
    egivesahardpushsqueezi
    ngMJ's
    handevenmorehard.
    ..
    andtheroom i
    sfi
    ll
    ed
    wit
    hababy '
    scry
    .
    Doc:
    i
    t'
    saboy
    !
    MJ'
    sli
    pscur
    vef
    ormi
    ngahugesmi
    l
    e,he
    tri
    estosi
    tupbutLenhl
    esqueezeshi
    shand
    screami
    nginpai
    nthedoctorqui
    ckl
    ygiv
    es
    thebabytooneofthenur
    ses.
    Doc:okgi
    vemeahar
    dpushIcanseet
    he
    head.
    Sheusesallofherst
    rengt
    htogiv
    eahard
    pushthensoontheroom i
    sfi
    ll
    edwit
    hyet
    anot
    herbabycry.
    Doc:
    Anot
    herboy
    !
    Lenhl
    eimmedi
    atel
    ydosesof
    fwhi
    l
    eMJ
    shedatear
    .
    Doc:
    Sircomecutofft
    heumbi
    l
    ical
    cor
    dso
    wecangocleanthem.
    Hest
    andsupnotfeel
    i
    nghi
    shand,hecutof
    f
    t
    heumbil
    i
    calcor
    dswithahugesmil
    eonhis
    f
    ace.
    ~~
    Af
    ter2hoursMbal
    enhl
    ewakesupwi
    thbot
    h
    MJ'
    snexttoher
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :wher
    ear
    ethey
    ?
    MJ:
    heyther
    emommy*
    smi
    l
    es*
    I'
    m good
    t
    hanksf
    oraski
    ng.
    Mbal
    i
    :MJ.
    MJ:
    theyar
    eri
    ghtnextt
    oyoubabe.
    Lenhlel
    ooksovertoherot
    hersi
    deand
    ther
    elayshercut
    eadorabl
    eboys.
    Lenhl
    e:*
    sheddi
    ngat
    ear
    *ohmygodMJt
    hey
    aresocute.
    MJ:
    j
    ustl
    i
    ket
    hei
    rmommyanddaddy
    .
    Lenhl
    esmileswit
    hafeeli
    ngshecan'
    t
    expl
    ain,
    areall
    ygoodpeacef
    ulf
    eeli
    ng.
    MJ:
    ther
    ear
    enowor
    dsi
    nthi
    spl
    anett
    hat
    coulddescribehowthankfulIam forthese
    preciousgif
    ts*si
    ghs*Iwoul
    d'
    v ewishedf or
    them tobebor nonanydayjustnott oday
    but*shrugs*
    Ican'tr
    eall
    ycontrol
    theseki nd
    ofthings.
    Lenhl
    e:what
    'swr
    ongwi
    tht
    hisday
    ?
    MJ:
    *si
    ghs*
    it'
    smybi
    rt
    hday
    .
    Lenhl
    e:owuhm happybirt
    hday
    *smil
    es*I
    knowyousai dthaty
    oudonotcel
    ebrat
    e
    yourbi
    rthdaybutourbabi
    esar
    ebornatthe
    samedayasy ousowhatnow?
    Hel
    ooksatt
    het
    wins.
    Lenhle:
    whydon'
    tyoucel
    ebr
    atey
    our
    bi
    rthday?
    MJ:
    *cl
    oseshi
    sey
    es*
    it'
    sthedaymyuncl
    e
    r
    apedme.
    Lenhl
    e:ohgodbabeI
    '
    m sosor
    ryIdi
    dn'
    t
    know.
    MJ:i
    t'
    sokayI
    '
    mtheonewhokeptshut
    ti
    ng
    youout.
    Lenhl
    e:sot
    hat
    'swhyy
    ouwer
    ecr
    ankyt
    oday
    ?
    Henods.
    Lenhl
    e:Idon'
    tremembery
    oucr
    ankyl
    ast
    year
    .
    MJ:youdi
    dn'
    tseemeonmybi r
    thdayl
    ast
    year
    ,i
    twasonthatdayIwentAWOLony ou
    t
    heentir
    eday.
    Lenhl
    e:ohy
    eah,
    sowhatnow?
    MJ:
    I'
    l
    ldoi
    t.
    Lenhl
    e:*wit
    hhereyesallout*
    lookbabeif
    youaren'tr
    eadyt
    henitisokayItotal
    ly
    under
    stand,Idonotwanty oudoing
    somethingyouaren'
    tcomf or
    tabl
    ewith.
    MJ:noi
    t'
    sokay
    ..
    .Ihav
    etodot
    hisf
    ormy
    ki
    ds.
    Lenhl
    e:ar
    eyousur
    eyouar
    ereadyt
    oface
    hi
    m?
    MJ:*si
    ghs*Iser
    iousl
    ydonotknowbutI
    havetofacehim soonorl
    ater.
    .any
    way
    enoughaboutthissappyt
    hing.
    Lenhl
    e:*
    smi
    l
    es*names?
    MJ:
    I'
    l
    lgi
    veem t
    hei
    rsecondnames*
    smi
    l
    es*
    Lenhl
    e:Abenat
    hi&Nkosi
    nat
    hi.
    MJ:
    theyarebeauti
    fulandIseewhaty
    oudi
    d
    t
    her
    ewi t
    hthe"Athi
    "*chuckl
    es*
    Lenhl
    e:*
    giggl
    es*
    well
    *shrugs*andy
    ou?
    Whatdoy ouhavei
    nmi nd?
    MJ:
    Cal
    vi
    n&Ky
    le.
    Lenhl
    e:Il
    oveem,
    sowhi
    chonei
    sCal
    vi
    n
    whi
    chonei
    sKy
    le?
    MJ:Idon'tknowtheyl
    ookso
    al
    i
    ke* chuckl
    es*

    Soi
    twasdeci
    dedwehave"Abenat
    hiCal
    vi
    n
    Mkhi
    ze"and"
    Nkosi
    nat
    hiKy
    leMkhize"

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Theyar efinall
    yher eIam sohappyt heyar e
    fi
    nallyherethyar ethemostador ablethingI
    haveev erseenev enthoughtheyar e
    trai
    torstheylooksoal i
    kewit
    ht heirfat
    her
    butitlookslikethey '
    l
    lgrowupwi thmyski n
    colourandt heydohav emyey es.Thenur se
    hasal r
    eadyshownmehowt obr eastfeed
    them andbur pt hem andallt
    hatbaby
    stuf
    f,
    I'm nol
    ongeratt her oom IwasatI '
    m
    nowinamuchbi ggerr oom causeev eryone
    i
    sher e..
    ..
    byeveryoneImeanMJ' sparents
    i
    ncludinguncleStheandauntSel enaand
    mypar entsi
    ncludingNcami ,
    theguys
    i
    ncludingSiyaandt hegi r
    lsjustoneperson
    missingthoughoneper sonIr eal
    l
    ywish
    washer ebutthat'
    sabi gwi sh.
    Dad:Iknowy
    ouwishhewasher
    e,meand
    yourmom dotoo.
    Me:
    Ireal
    l
    ymi
    sshi
    m al
    odad.
    Dad:
    andI
    '
    m sur
    ehemi
    ssesy
    ouev
    enmor
    e.
    Me:I'
    m al
    soafrai
    dthatwhenhecomes
    backhe'l
    lsomebackasanentir
    elydi
    ff
    erent
    changedperson.
    Dad:
    Idonotwanttol
    ietoyoubabyandsay
    hewon'
    tcauseIknowthatpl
    ace,
    hewil
    l
    comeasadi ff
    erent,changedpersonbut
    onethingIt
    rul
    yknowi sthathi
    slovef
    ory ou
    wil
    lnotbediff
    erenthisloveforyouwil
    lnot
    change.
    Me:
    *si
    ghi
    ng*
    Iheary
    out
    hanks.
    Hi
    m:nowI
    '
    vetal
    kedtoyoul
    etmegotal
    k
    wi
    thmygr
    andki
    ds*smi
    l
    es*Okever
    yone
    move!
    Theyal
    lqui
    ckl
    ymov
    ebowi
    ngt
    hei
    rheads.
    Dad:
    *chuckl
    es*
    I'
    mjustj
    oki
    ng.
    Tasha,
    Z'
    yandaandSnegi
    ggl
    ewel
    ltheyar
    e
    usedtohi
    m.
    Si
    yacomest
    owhi
    spersomet
    hingt
    ome.
    Hi
    m:y
    ourf
    atheri
    sscar
    yyer
    r.
    Me:
    he'
    snot
    .
    Hi
    m:*
    rol
    l
    shi
    sey
    es*
    ofcour
    sey
    ouwoul
    dsay
    t
    hat
    .
    Anursewalksi
    nandyoucanseehershock
    ashereyesmeetmyparent
    ssheal
    sobows
    herhead.
    Mom:
    ohmychi
    l
    dnoneedt
    o.
    Her:
    *clear
    shert
    hroat
    *uhm I
    '
    m sor
    rybut
    vi
    sit
    inghoursar
    eover.
    Mom: t
    hankyoujustgi
    veusami
    nut
    etosay
    ourgoodbyes.
    Thenur
    senodswi
    thasmi
    l
    ethenwal
    ksout
    .
    Ever
    y onesaythei
    rgoodbyest
    henleav
    eMJ
    di
    dn'twanttoleavebuthehastor
    estItol
    d
    hi
    mI '
    mf ineI
    'l
    lseehimtomorrow.

    PeaceatlastIcannowsl
    eepIclosemy
    exhaust
    edey esbutt
    heyqui
    ckl
    yopenasI
    hearal
    oudcrymustbeAbenathi
    he'
    sthe
    l
    oudest
    ,Isl
    owl
    ygetoutofbedandpi
    ckhim
    up.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Theguy
    sar
    eal
    lchi
    l
    ledatMJ'
    s.
    Tom:
    bei
    ngafathermustfeel
    r eal
    l
    ygoodI
    meanl
    ookathowy ou'
    resmil
    ing.
    MJ:
    thef
    eel
    i
    ngi
    sbey
    ondgoodman.
    Zugo:
    soMJ,Chrisgavemeat al
    kafew
    weeksbacktel
    l
    ingmet hatI
    '
    m marri
    edandI
    haveachi
    ldIshoul
    dleavegangst
    eri
    sm so
    myfamil
    ywon'tbeinanydanger.
    MJ:
    Iagr
    eewi
    thChr
    is.
    Zugo:
    goodmeani
    ngy
    ou'
    l
    lal
    sol
    eav
    eit
    ?
    MJ,KhayaandBongal
    ookatZugot
    hen
    bur
    stint
    olaught
    er.
    Zugo:
    what
    ?Di
    dIsaysomet
    hingf
    unny
    ?
    Tom:
    MJy
    oual
    sohav
    eaf
    ami
    l
    ytot
    hinkof
    .
    MJ:waitwai
    twhatmakesy
    out
    hinkI
    '
    ma
    gangst
    er?
    Tom:
    ever
    ythi
    ngabouty
    ou.
    MJ:
    wellI
    'm notagangster
    ,ev
    enLenhl
    e
    t
    houghtIam onebutI'
    m not.
    Tom:thatdoesn'
    tmakeanysense,
    why
    wouldyouhav eacr
    ew,gunsanda
    warehouseifyouar
    enotagangster
    ?
    MJ: *si
    ghs*Ihaveacrewtohelpmeclean
    upt he"mess"IcreatewhenIbecome
    R.T...
    thegunisforkil
    li
    ngthosewhoseeme
    i
    nt hatstatecausetheyar
    enotsupposeto
    seemel i
    kethat.
    ..
    ..
    thewarehousei
    swhereI
    weki
    i
    lthem.
    Chri
    s:wowbutwai twhataboutthatti
    mea
    newbiefrom ourcrewst
    olefrom youwhat
    di
    dhest ealf
    rom you?Wasn'titdi
    amonds
    ordrugs?
    MJ: *
    chuckles*Iownsomepr oper ti
    esunder
    thenameR. Twhi chiswhyal otofpeopl e
    cancont actmewel l
    actuall
    yKhay aanyway
    propert
    ieswhi chIrentoutandt heyar eful
    ly
    furni
    shed, y
    ournewbi ewasst ayingi none
    ofthem andhewasst eal
    ingmyt hings
    underyourcr ew'sname.
    Chr
    is:
    that
    'swhyy
    ouki
    l
    ledhi
    m?
    MJ:
    Idi
    dn'
    tki
    l
    lhi
    m Ij
    ustt
    aughthi
    m al
    esson.
    Tom scr
    atcheshi
    sheadi
    nfr
    ust
    rat
    ion.
    Tom:
    thenwhatar
    ethest
    reetnamesf
    or?
    MJ:
    youdi
    dseemei
    nthatst
    ater
    ight
    ?
    Tom: ohhyeah,
    thenwhyi
    sev
    ery
    oneso
    fuckenscaredofyou?
    Khaya:
    may befort
    hereasonthatal
    otof
    peopl
    edisappearandneverbeseenagai
    n
    underhi
    sname.
    Zugo:
    soy
    ouar
    enotagangst
    er?
    MJ:
    nope.
    Chr
    is:
    whatabouty
    out
    wo?
    Bonga:
    wel
    lmay
    beIam may
    beI
    '
    m not
    .
    Khay
    a:*
    chuckl
    es*
    alsonotagangst
    er.
    Tom:
    thenwhycal
    lyour
    sel
    fKay
    ?
    Khaya:mybr otherher edoesn'
    twantusto
    useourr eal
    namesf orsomeobv i
    ous
    reasonsandi fyour eall
    ylooki
    ntoiti
    tisnot
    adiffer
    entnamei t
    'sjustthefi
    rstl
    ett
    erof
    myname.
    Tom: It
    hinktheal
    cohol
    hasn'
    tlef
    tmybody
    yetsoI'm gonnaneedyout
    oexplai
    ntome
    againtomor r
    owwhenI'
    m sober.
    Ever
    yonechuckl
    esandcont
    inuewat
    chi
    ng
    somefootbal
    lgame.

    ~i
    nser
    t80~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Aft
    ert
    hehangoutatMJ'sTom hadtodri
    ve
    Zugohomecausehe'
    stoodrunktodri
    ve.
    Zugo:It
    hinkI
    '
    llbesl
    eepi
    ngont
    hecouch
    today
    .
    Tom:
    *chuckl
    es*
    mostdef
    ini
    tel
    y.
    Zugo:
    comeont
    hrowmeabone.
    Tom:andsaywhat?ThatZ'
    yandawil
    lbe
    coolwit
    hsleepi
    ngonthesamebedwi t
    h
    youdrunkl
    ikethi
    s?YouknowthatZ'
    yanda
    hatesi
    twheny ouar
    edrunk.
    Zugo:
    def
    ini
    tel
    ysl
    eepi
    ngont
    hecouch.
    Tom chuckl
    esf
    ocusi
    ngont
    her
    oad.
    Zugo:
    sowhatabouty
    ouandt
    hatgi
    rl
    ?
    Tom:
    whataboutus?
    Zugo:
    youknowy
    oul
    i
    keher
    .
    Tom: *
    sighs*Idoandi
    tfr
    eaksmeoutman,
    I
    don'tl
    ikethewayIrunoutofwor
    dswhen
    I
    'm aroundherthati
    snotme.
    Zugo:
    ncohyou'r
    einl
    ove.
    ..
    thi
    sisgoi
    ngt
    obe
    ver
    yint
    erest
    ing.
    Tom:
    mcm.

    1mont
    hlat
    er¶

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Ev erythingseemst obegoi ngqui tewel l


    ,my
    babi esar egrowi ngper fectlyandt heir
    daddyi sr eal
    lyfondoft hem theyhav et heir
    ownnur seryroom butnodaddywant s
    them cl oset ohi m atall t
    imes,y er
    pt hey
    sleepi nourr oom.Dadl eftaf ewday saf ter
    Iwasdi schargedsincehel eftnoonei n
    char gebackatt hepalaceandMom st ay ed
    tohel pmewi ththet wins,mymot heri nl aw
    alsocomest ocheckuponusev erynow
    andt henandi tseemsl ikesheget sal ong
    wit hmymot herv erywel l
    ..
    .asf orNcami she
    l
    ef ty esterday,Mom wi l
    l al
    sogoback
    tomor rowI '
    m def i
    nitel
    ygoi ngt omi ssher .
    MJ:
    babeI
    '
    m of
    f.
    Igi
    vehi
    m aner
    voussmi
    l
    e.
    Hi
    m:don'
    twor
    ryI
    '
    llbef
    ine.
    Hesay
    sthatki
    ssi
    ngmyf
    oreheadandf
    ace
    t
    hetwi
    ns.
    Him:daddywi
    ll
    ber
    ightbackok,
    begoodt
    o
    yourmother
    .
    Heal
    soki
    sst
    hei
    rfor
    eheads.
    Hi
    m:l
    ovey
    ou*
    wal
    ki
    ngout
    *
    He'sgoingtoseehi
    suncl
    einpri
    sonandso
    muchcoul dgowrongt
    herehemightget
    angry.
    ..
    IknowKhayaandBongawill
    be
    ther
    ebutst i
    l
    lsomuchcouldgowrong.
    Mom wal
    kst
    othel
    oungewi
    thhersui
    tcase.
    Me:wher
    ear eyougoi
    ngcauseIt
    hought
    youwereleavi
    ngtomorr
    ow.
    Her
    :myhusbandmi
    ssesmeandImi
    sshi
    m
    t
    ooso..
    Me:
    *pout
    ing*
    butmom I
    ..
    .
    Her
    :*gi
    ggl
    es*y
    ourmotheri
    nlawiscl
    oseby
    sost
    opsulki
    ngandI
    'l
    lbebackin2weeks.
    Me:
    okf
    iney
    oucango.
    Her
    :l
    etmesaygoodby
    etomygr
    andki
    ds.
    Sheki
    ssest
    hem al
    lovert
    hei
    rfacesand
    ki
    ssmeonthecheek.
    Her
    :goodby
    ebaby
    .
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    byemom.
    Shewal ksout,
    she'l
    lbebackin2weeks
    causetheweddi ngwillbein2weeksandI
    havetosayt hestepisamazingeven
    thoughTom wasabi tclumsyar
    ound
    Nandiphahehasn' tgott
    enthecouraget
    o
    askheroutyetandIcanseethatNandipha
    i
    salsofall
    i
    ngf orTom sl
    owl
    ybutsurelyand
    i
    talsoseemslikeSneisfal
    l
    ingforTom too
    eit
    helovetri
    anglesi
    nourcir
    cleneverends.
    "Mommy "
    Z'y
    andasayswalki
    ngincarr
    ying
    Kiar
    ashe'
    saphotocopyofhermotherthi
    s
    one.

    °
    MJ°

    Khaya:Ist
    il
    lsayy
    oushoul
    dletuswal
    kin
    wit
    hy ou.
    Bonga:
    yeahmanImeanwedon'
    tknow
    whatmighthappeni
    nther
    e.
    Me:
    guy
    sI'
    l
    lbef
    ine.
    Theybot
    hsi
    ghi
    nfr
    ust
    rat
    ion.
    War
    den:
    okSi
    rpl
    easef
    oll
    owme.
    Il
    ookatt
    heguy
    sthenf
    oll
    owt
    hewar
    den.
    Itakeaseatwai t
    ingforhim,am Ireall
    y
    readytofacehi m againaftersomany
    years.
    ..
    .I
    'm gratef
    ul t
    hathim anddadar e
    notidenti
    cal t
    winsorel seitwouldhav e
    beenhar dtocopeseei ngav erysi
    milarface
    tomyr apist.
    ..
    .ohher ehecomeshonest l
    y
    seeinghim nowI '
    m notsur ewhet herI
    shouldforgivehim ornotbutI '
    m notonly
    doingthisformeI '
    m doingitformy
    boys,wif
    einf actmyf ami l
    y.
    ..
    .helookstoo
    l
    ightandski nnyandhedoesn' tseem
    surpri
    setoseemeIwonderwhy ?
    Hesi t
    sdownacr ossmedoesn'tsaya
    singl
    ewor d,j
    uststaresatmeandIgladly
    retur
    nthef avourcausetrustmeIam no
    l
    ongert hat18y earoldboywhowasbr oken
    andscar
    edofhi
    m.
    Him:
    *chuckl
    es*
    Iseey
    out
    hinky
    ou'
    ret
    ough
    now.
    Me:*
    rai
    singmyey
    ebr
    ow*
    Idon'
    tthi
    nksoI
    knowso.
    Hi
    m: wel
    lgoodfory
    ouIguess,
    sowhat
    br
    ingsyouhere?
    Me:
    tot
    ell
    youhowmuchIhat
    eyou.
    Him:*
    chuckl
    es*butIalr
    eadyknowt hatso
    getst
    rai
    ghttothepoint,
    i
    fyouwantt oask
    somethi
    ngthenaskcauseI '
    m cur
    rently
    busy.
    Me:*chuckl
    ing*busy?WowandI '
    m nothere
    toaskany t
    hing,youdidwhatyoudidtome
    forareasonwhi chIdonotwanttoknow
    becausetheboyy ourapeddi
    edyearsago
    buthe'snotresti
    ngi npeacewhi
    chbrings
    ustothereasonI'
    m her
    e,t
    heboyyouraped
    yearsagoforgi
    vesyoubecausehewantst
    o
    resti
    npeace.
    Helooksatmef
    orawhi
    l
    ethenbr
    ingshi
    s
    headcloser
    .
    Him:
    areyousurehe'
    sdead?CauseIt
    hink
    he'
    ssti
    ll
    inther
    e.
    Me:*st
    andingup*youcanthi
    nkwhatyou
    thi
    nkIdon'tcar
    e,Ihav
    esaidwhatIcameto
    saysoenjoytherestofy
    ouryear
    sinhere.
    Him:ohIguessyouhaven'
    thear
    d,I'
    l
    lbe
    comingoutofherewaysoonerthanyou
    thi
    nk.
    What?That
    'sshocki
    ngbutIdon'
    tshowhi
    m
    anyemoti
    ons.
    Me:
    thanksf
    orl
    ett
    ingmeknow.
    It
    urnaway
    .
    Hi
    m:Ihear
    daboutmynephews.
    It
    urnqui
    ckasl
    i
    ght
    ning.
    Hi
    m:*smirki
    ng*andIwoul
    dreal
    l
    yloveto
    meetthem al
    ongwitht
    hei
    rbeauti
    ful
    mother
    .
    Imar
    cht
    ohi
    m andgr
    abhi
    m byhi
    scl
    othe/
    s.
    Me:*
    speaki
    ngt
    hroughmyteet
    h*don'
    tyou
    dar
    ecomenearmyf ami
    l
    yorelseIw.
    "
    Heyhey
    "
    Iletgoofhi
    m bypushi
    nghim har
    dandhe
    fallt
    othefl
    oor
    ,It
    urnbackpi
    ssedoffand
    walkout.

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    Zee:
    wellI
    '
    llseey
    ouandy
    our2angel
    s
    tomorr
    ow.
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    okbabe,
    bye.
    Iki
    ssKiara.
    ..
    thedoorbel
    lri
    ngsitprobabl
    y
    Tashaadaydoesn'tpasswithouther
    comingtoseehergodchil
    dren.
    Me:
    tel
    lwhoev
    eri
    tist
    ocomei
    n.
    ShenodsandwalksoutandIexpect
    Tasha'sl
    oudvoi
    cetogreetmebuti nst
    ead
    I
    'm greet
    edbyamalevoice.
    ..
    Itur
    nmyhead
    l
    ookinguponlyt
    omeetSanel e'
    sface.
    Me:
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    ?
    Hi
    m:ouchcanIat
    leastseatdown.
    Ij
    ustl
    ookathi
    m andr
    oll
    myey
    es.
    Hi
    m:*
    sit
    ti
    ngdown*
    howar
    eyou?
    Me:
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    ?
    Him:
    lookI
    'm sor
    ryfort
    hewayIbehaved
    andIknowyou'r
    einahappyr
    elat
    ionshi
    pI
    meanmar
    ri
    agesoIwon'
    tdest
    royi
    t.
    Il
    ookathi
    m wi
    thmyeyebr
    owr
    aisedwel
    li
    t
    l
    ooksl
    ikehemeansi
    t.
    Me:y
    oucameher
    ejustt
    oapol
    ogi
    ze?and
    howdidy
    ouknowwhereIl
    i
    ve?
    Hi
    m:Iact
    ual
    lycametoseeyourhusband,i
    t
    i
    snotimpor
    tantwher
    eIgotyouraddress.
    Me:
    myhusband?Why
    ?
    Hi
    m:I
    '
    dpr
    efert
    ell
    i
    nghi
    m why
    .
    Me:
    wel
    lhe'
    snother
    e.
    Hesi
    ghsandt
    akesouthi
    sbusi
    nesscar
    d.
    Him:
    pleasetell
    himtocont
    actmeassoon
    aspossibl
    e.*
    standsup*
    Me:Iwon'
    ttel
    lhim unl
    essy
    out
    ell
    mewhat
    i
    tisyouwantfrom him.
    Hesi
    ghsagai
    nandsi
    tsdown.
    Him:
    didy
    ouknowaguynamedNsi
    kat
    he
    onet
    hatwasgunnedt
    odeat
    h?
    Me:
    yeah.
    Him:
    he'
    smybrot
    herandI
    '
    mlooki
    ngf
    or
    someanswer
    s.
    Me:
    he'
    syourbr
    other
    ?
    Hi
    m:y
    eah.
    Me:
    wher
    edoesmyhusbandf
    iti
    nal
    loft
    his.
    Him:
    mysour cetol
    dmet hatyourhusband
    andhisbrot
    herarei
    ncontactwithaguy
    namedR.Twhoappar ent
    lyki
    ll
    edmybr other
    andI
    'm hopi
    ngthey'
    ll
    tell
    mewher eIcan
    fi
    ndthi
    sguy.
    Iam bey
    ondt
    hewor
    dshockedr
    ightnow.
    Me:
    w..
    ..
    Cal
    vi
    ndi
    stur
    bsmewi
    thhi
    slowcr
    y,It
    urnmy
    f
    ocust
    ohi
    m.
    Me:uhm I
    'm sor
    ryIhav
    etofeedhi
    m Iwi
    l
    l
    passyourmessagetohim.
    Helooksatmef
    orawhi
    l
    ethenbi
    dgoodby
    e
    andleav
    es.
    Mj t
    hejaguardidn'
    tjumponhi m soIguess
    hemeanti twhenhesai dhe'ssorry
    ..
    .Ido
    notknowwhyMJki l
    ledNsikaifhedidbut
    Saneleshoulddropal l
    ofthisi
    fhest i
    l
    l
    wantstolivecauseMJorshoul dIsayR.T
    thathe'
    slookingforwillki
    l
    lhim.
    Il
    iket
    obel i
    evethatmyhusbandi snota
    ki
    l
    lerbuttheanimal i
    nhimi st
    heonet o
    bl
    ame,andI'l
    lhavetotel
    lMJt ogetbackt o
    hi
    m may beaftertheweddingbecausethat
    i
    swhatweshoul dbefocusingon.
    ~i
    nser
    t81~

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    MJcamebackhomel ateyesterdaysaying
    hewascooli
    ngof fwi
    ththeguy s,hetol
    dme
    whathowitwentwithhisuncleandIget
    whyhewasangr ywelli
    fhisunclet hi
    nks
    MJissti
    l
    lthesameboyhemol estedncnc
    nchehasanotherthi
    ngcomi ng.
    Ial
    sotoldhim aboutSanele..
    he'spissedoff
    bythefactthatSaneleactuall
    ycamet oour
    homeandheal soagr eedt
    ot hefactthathe
    ki
    ll
    edNsi kabecausehewaspl anningon
    ki
    dnappingmet hatcamet omeasashock
    causeIdidn'
    tknowanyoft hat.
    Me:
    shoul
    dn'
    tyoubeget
    ti
    ngr
    eadyf
    orwor
    k?
    I
    nfactshoul
    dn'
    tyoubei
    ntheof
    fi
    cebynow.
    Him:
    *smi
    les*i
    sitacr
    imet
    owanttospend
    somequali
    tyt
    imewit
    hmyf ami
    l
    y?
    Me:*
    blushing*ofcoursenot,
    whi
    chmeansI
    cangobackt obedy ourkidsdi
    dn'
    tl
    etme
    sl
    eepawi nklastnight.
    Hi
    m:*
    chuckl
    es*
    butIdi
    dn'
    thearany
    thi
    ng.
    Me:
    that
    'sbecausey
    ouwer
    edeadt
    ir
    ed.
    Hi
    m:okok,
    howaret
    heweddi
    ng
    pr
    epar
    ati
    onsgoi
    ng?
    *pi
    cki
    ngupthet
    wins*
    Me:they
    'r
    egoi
    ngwell
    ,nextweekwehav eto
    gocheckoutt
    hevenue,
    forthecaketast
    ing
    IknowKhayaandSi
    yawi l
    lbegladto
    accompanymefort
    hat.
    Hi
    m:whosai
    dIdon'
    twantt
    ogocake
    t
    asti
    ng?
    Me:thecaketast
    ingwil
    lbe3daysbef
    ore
    theweddingandy oudi
    dsayyou'
    l
    lbebusy
    bythen.
    Hi
    m:ohy
    eahal
    mostf
    orgot
    .
    Me:
    whati
    sitt
    haty
    ou'
    l
    lbedoi
    ngv
    ele?
    Hi
    m:somet
    hingandnomor
    equest
    ions.
    MmmmhIl
    ookathi
    m suspi
    ciousl
    y.


    Weddi
    ngDay

    Tasha:
    you'
    remarr
    iedt
    oMJal r
    eadysoI
    don'
    tgetwhyyouarener
    vous*
    giggl
    es*
    Me:
    Ireal
    l
    ycan'
    thel
    pit
    .
    Mom:
    your
    ememberwhatwet
    oldy
    our
    ight
    ?
    Me:*
    smil
    ing*y
    esandIpr
    omi
    set
    ouset
    he
    adv
    icey
    out ol
    dme.
    Mom:
    goodt
    hen.
    Me:
    Imi
    ssmybabi
    esnow.
    Nandi
    pha:*
    giggl
    es*thei
    rgr
    andmot
    herjust
    l
    eftwi
    ththem aboutexact
    ly1mi
    nuteago.
    Me:
    *sul
    ki
    ng*
    evensoIst
    il
    lmi
    sst
    hem v
    ery
    much.
    Sne:
    guysyoudogetthatweare5minut
    es
    l
    atetheguysar
    ewaiti
    ngforusandI
    '
    m sure
    MJisalr
    eadyinthehal
    lwai
    ti
    ng.
    Mom:yougi
    rl
    scangoI
    '
    llgol
    ookf
    orher
    f
    ather
    .
    Thegi
    rl
    snodwal
    ki
    ngoutsot
    hisi
    sit
    .

    °
    MJ°

    Mbal
    enhl
    eisal
    readymywi
    febutIhav
    e
    nev
    erbeensonervousi
    nmyli
    fe.Ev
    ery
    one
    i
    shereexceptf
    orLenhl
    ewher
    eisshe?
    Khaya:
    rel
    axshe'
    sonherwayy
    essesy
    ou'
    re
    evensweati
    ng.
    Irol
    lmyey esonhi m andt heyinvol
    untary
    l
    andonmyboy scarri
    edbyt hei
    r
    grandmothersandIcan' thelpbutsmi l
    e
    thensuddenlyeveryonegoessi lentasa
    songcomesoni t
    'sasongbyJohnLegend
    ftJheneAiko-UMov e,Imov e.

    "
    Idon'
    tneedwor
    dsi
    ..
    "
    Itot
    all
    yzoneoutasmyey eslandonherOh
    Godshe'ssobeautif
    ul andIdon' tknowwhy
    butIfeelr
    eal
    lyemotional r
    ight
    now,ever
    ythi
    nggoesi nslowmot ionIfeel
    l
    ikegoingtotakeherfrom herf atherr
    ight
    t
    her
    ecauset
    heyar
    esur
    elyt
    aki
    ngt
    hei
    rti
    me.

    "
    ..
    ..
    That
    'showi
    twor
    ks
    Iputy
    ouf
    ir
    st.
    .
    Yourt
    wistandy
    ourt
    urns
    Iwannal
    ear
    n
    WhenI
    '
    mlosty
    ougi
    vemeor
    der
    Pul
    lmebackandpushmef
    orwar
    d
    Takemei
    nandhol
    dme,
    hol
    dme
    I
    '
    llf
    oll
    owy
    ou.
    ..
    "

    Fi
    nallyshegetshere,It
    akeherhandf
    rom
    herfatherst
    il
    lunabletotakemyeyesof
    f
    her.
    Pr
    iest
    :who'
    sgi
    vi
    ngawayt
    hebr
    idet
    othe
    gr
    oom?
    Ki
    ngMusa:
    Iam.
    Priest:
    okthenletusbegin*
    clear
    shisthroat
    *
    Wear egather
    edheretodaytounitet
    hese
    twoi nholymatri
    monyandbl ahblahblah
    blah..
    .
    I'
    mr eal
    lynotfocusingonwhathe'
    ssaying
    I'
    m onlyfocusingonthi
    sli
    vi
    ngbeauti
    ful
    angelinfrontofme.IwonderwhatIdidfor
    theheavenst oblessmewiththi
    ssoulin
    frontofme.
    Thepr
    iestcont
    inuesandwesayourIdos.
    Pri
    est:
    beforeweproceedisther
    eany onei
    n
    herewhot hi
    nksthesetwoshouldnotwed?
    I
    fthereisthenspeakuporforeverhold
    yourpeace.
    *
    *Si
    l
    ence*
    *

    Pr
    iest
    :okt
    hen.
    Heaskf ortheri
    ngs,Khayapatshi
    spockets
    withhi
    sey esalloutIgi
    vehim adeadstare
    hebetternothaveforgot
    tenthem..
    .Isee
    him si
    ghinreli
    efashehandst heri
    ngsto
    thepri
    est.
    Pri
    est:
    Mayt heseringsbeblessedasa
    symbol ofyouruni on,asof
    tenasei t
    herof
    youlookupont heseringsmayy ounotonly
    beremi ndedoft hi
    smomentbutal soofthe
    vowsy ouhav emadeandt heonesy ouwill
    makeandt hest r
    engthofyourcommi tment
    toeachot her,Ibeli
    evebothofyouwoul d
    l
    iketosayy ourownv ows.
    Webot
    hnod,
    Lenhl
    etaket
    her
    ingandIgi
    ve
    hermyl
    efthand.
    Her:*clear shert hroat*thisent ireweekI 've
    beenwr i
    ti
    ngdownmyv owsandpr acti
    cing
    them f unnyt hingi sIhav ef orgot tent hem
    butIdon' tneedapi eceofpapert ot ellyou
    howmuchIl ovey ou..
    .Ourl ovehasbeen
    testedbutwear est i
    l
    lupand
    running* chuckl es*Lov ei spat ient ,l
    ov eis
    kind.Itdoesnotenv y,i
    tdoesnotboast ,iti
    s
    notpr oud.I tisnotr ude, iti
    snotsel f-
    seeking, itisnoteasi lyanger ed, itkeepsno
    recordofwr ongs.Lov edoesnotdel ightin
    evilbutr ejoiceswi ththet ruth.I talway s
    protect s,alway strusts,alway shopes,
    alway sper sev eresandt hatiswhaty ou'
    v e
    beengi vi
    ngmemaki ngmyl ovef ory outo
    growupev erysingleday ,IrememberwhenI
    thoughti twasov erbetweenusmyhead
    knewt hatexact l
    ybutmyhear tr efusedt o
    l
    etgoofy ouitkeptl ov i
    ngy oumor eand
    mor eandatt hatt i
    meIdi dn' tknowwhybut
    nowIknowi t
    'ssimpl ybecauseI tisn't
    possi blet olov eandpar t
    ,y ouwi l
    lwi shthat
    i
    twas.Youcant ransmut elov e,ignor eit,
    muddl ei t
    ,buty oucannev erpul litoutof
    you, Iknowbyex per i
    encet hatt hepoet sar e
    ri
    ght :lov eiset ernal.SoIt akey ouasmy
    husbandt olov eandt ohol dt i
    ghtin
    sicknessandi nheal th,i
    ngoodandbad
    ti
    mes, forricherandf orpoorandev endeat h
    willnev erdousapar t..
    ..Ihear ty ouwi th
    every t
    hi ngi nmeMkhi ze.*shesl ipt hering
    i
    n*

    Ilookupblinki
    ngawaymyt ear
    s,It
    hent
    ake
    ther i
    ngfr
    om thebi
    bleandshegivesmeher
    l
    ef thand.
    Me:Mawabo* smiling*I '
    l
    l startof fby
    thankingy ouf orlovingmet hismuch, you
    knowt hingsaboutmet hatwoul dmake
    othergi rl
    sr unoutwi thoutl ooki ngbackbut
    youst ay eddespi teofwhaty ouknow, and
    l
    et'snotf orgetabouty oumaki ngmeaman
    amongstot hermanbybl essingsmewi th
    twobeaut i
    ful,cutejewel sbei ngourt wins..
    .I
    honest lydon' tknowwhi chwor dst ouset o
    explainmyl ov efory ou* chuckl ing*Youar e
    theanswert oev erypr ayerI '
    veof f
    eredy eah
    Iknowi t'
    sshocki ngi dopr ay,youar easong,
    adr eam, awhi sper ,
    andIdon' tknowhowI
    couldhav el i
    vedwi t
    houty ouf orasl ongasI
    have.Lenhl ey ou'
    r emyl ifemysoul my
    everythingsoIbegy out obewi thme
    alway s-t akeanyf orm -dr ivememad, only
    donotl eav emei nt hisaby ss,wher eI
    cannotf i
    ndy ou,Godknowsi tisunut
    terable
    Icannotl i
    vewi thoutmyl if
    e,Icannotlive
    withoutmysoul .Soher eIam t odaysayingI
    takey ouasmywi fetol oveandtoholdt i
    ght
    i
    nsi cknessandi nhealth,i
    ngoodandbad
    ti
    mes, forr
    icherandf orpoorandev endeat h
    willneverdoi sapart.
    ..
    .andIheartyouway
    mor ethany ouhear tme. *
    Isli
    pinthering*
    Shewipesof
    fhert
    ear
    sgodshel
    ooks
    beaut
    if
    ul.
    Priest
    :t
    alki
    ngabouttruelovepeople,wel
    l
    there'
    snothingl
    eftt
    osay ..
    .Ipr
    onouncey ou
    HusbandandWi feagain,youmayki ssyour
    wifesonIcanseey ou'vebeenlongingtodo
    that.
    Me:
    youhav
    enoi
    dea.
    Isayt
    hathol
    dingLenhl
    ecloseaseveryone
    l
    aughs,
    Icupherfaceanddevourherl
    i
    ps
    andwebothgetlosti
    nthekissf
    orget
    ti
    ng
    thatt
    her
    earepeoplewatchi
    ng.
    Tom:
    aibowe'
    rest
    il
    lher
    e.
    Everyonel
    aughandwebr eakt
    hekissand
    danceourwayouttotakepict
    uresgod
    thankyouonceagai
    n.

    °
    Mbal
    enhl
    e°

    We'vechangedintooursecondat t
    ireand
    mydadj ustwalkedof fthest ageafter
    givi
    ngaspeech, hewast helastone...t
    oday
    hasbeenperfectitismydr eam weddi ng,
    thedream weddingIhav eal wayswant ed
    eventhoughmybr otheri snother eIso
    wishhewasher et owi t
    nessal lofthisjust
    l
    ikeIwishedhewast hereont hefi
    rst
    wedding,
    whent hetwinswere
    born.
    ..
    speaki
    ngofmymom andmot heri
    n
    l
    awj ustwenttochanget hem andIhaveto
    saytheyaresurpri
    singl
    ygoodt oday
    .
    MJ:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    MaMkhi
    ze.
    Me:
    *bl
    ushi
    ng*
    baba.
    Hi
    m:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    mmmh.
    ..
    mayIhav
    ethi
    sdance.
    It
    akehi
    shandsmi
    l
    ing.
    Him:sooneofy ourfavor
    it
    esongswil
    lpl
    ay
    andy ou'
    regoingtosingal
    ongaswedance
    Iwouldalsolovetosingwithy
    oubutI'
    m
    notgift
    edasy ouknowbutKhay awi
    l
    lbemy
    voi
    ce.
    Me:mm oksowhi
    chsongar
    eyout
    alki
    ng
    about
    ?
    Hi
    m:y
    ou'
    l
    lknowoncei
    tst
    art
    .
    Il
    ookar oundandseeKhay aholdi
    ngami c
    fi
    nall
    yIwi l
    lhearhim si
    ng,thebeatofthe
    songstartsandIlit
    erall
    ylaughi tasong
    fr
    om aDi sneymov i
    e" HighSchool Musical
    -
    CanIhav ethisdance"Ididn'texact
    lysay
    i
    t'
    smyf avori
    tesongIsai dmeandSi pho
    l
    oveddanci ngtoitwhilegrowing
    up..
    ..
    anywayIst ar
    tsingingandsl ow
    dancingatthesamet i
    me.
    Me:
    "Takemyhand,
    takeabr
    eat
    h
    Pul
    lmecl
    oseandt
    akeonest
    ep
    Keepy
    ourey
    esl
    ockedt
    omi
    ne
    andl
    ett
    hemusi
    cbey
    ourgui
    de.
    Khaya:
    Won'
    tyoupromiseme(me:
    nowwon'
    t
    youpromi
    seme,t
    hatyou'l
    lnev
    erf
    orget
    )
    We'
    l
    lkeepdanci
    ng(
    me:
    tokeepdanci
    ng)
    Wher
    everwegonext
    .
    I
    t'
    sli
    kecat
    chi
    ngli
    ghtni
    ng,
    thechancesof
    f
    indi
    ngsomeonel
    ikeyou
    I
    t'
    sonei
    namil
    li
    on,
    thechancesoff
    eel
    i
    ng
    t
    hewaywedo
    Andwit
    hever
    ystept
    oget
    her
    ,wej
    ustkeep
    onget
    ti
    ngbet
    ter
    SocanIhav
    ethi
    sdance
    CanIhav
    ethi
    sdance"

    MJrai
    seshi
    shandandt
    hev
    olumegoes
    down.
    Hi
    m:someoneel
    sewoul
    dli
    ket
    ofi
    nishof
    f
    t
    hedance.
    Heki
    ssesmycheekandwalkof
    fthest
    age
    l
    eavi
    ngmealoneconf
    used.
    "St
    handwasenhlizi
    yoyami(
    Loveofmy
    heart
    )"If
    reezeheari
    ngthevoi
    ceI'
    vebeen
    year
    ningtohearforayear
    .
    Isl
    owlyt
    urnandmytearsjustpl
    ayt
    hei
    r
    par
    tandhe'
    salsocr
    ying.
    Si
    pho:
    *wi
    pingof
    fhi
    stear
    s*shal
    lwe?
    Inodunabl
    etosayasi
    ngl
    ewor
    d,t
    he
    vol
    umegoesup.
    Si
    pho:"
    Takemyhand(
    Itakehi
    shand
    smil
    i
    ng)
    I
    'l
    ltaket
    hel
    eadandev
    eryt
    urnwi
    l
    lbesaf
    e
    wit
    hme
    Don'
    tbeaf
    rai
    d,af
    rai
    dtof
    all
    YouknowI
    '
    llcat
    chy
    out
    houghti
    tal
    l
    Andy
    oucan'
    tkeepusapar
    t(me:
    evena
    t
    housandmi
    l
    escan'
    tkeepusapar
    t)
    Causemyhear
    tiswher
    every
    ouar
    e

    I
    t'
    sli
    kecan.
    ."

    Wedanceti
    llt
    hesongisoverl
    eav
    ingme
    wi
    shi
    ngitcouldst
    artal
    lov
    eragai
    n,Igi
    ve
    hi
    m at
    ighthug.
    Him:weshoul dthankMJf ormakingt hi
    s
    happen,Idon'tknowhowhepul l
    edi toffbut
    hedidandhehadt oexpl
    ainev
    erythingfi
    rst
    ofcourse...
    Ican'tbel
    i
    eveI'
    m anuncl e
    now*smi l
    ing*
    Me:
    andIcan'
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ouar
    eher
    e.
    Hi
    m:onl
    yfort
    odayt
    hough.
    Me:
    i
    tdoesn'
    tmat
    terwhatmat
    ter
    sist
    hat
    y
    ou'
    reher
    enow.

    Ihughi
    m evenmoret
    ight
    er,
    whatmor
    e
    coul
    dagirl
    askfor
    ?

    ~i
    nser
    t82~

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Thebrideandgroom hadj
    ustt
    hanked
    ever
    yoneforcomingandthevi
    sit
    orswer
    e
    st
    arti
    ngtoleave.
    Sipho:
    I'
    vebeengonefor1y
    earbuti
    tseems
    l
    ikealothashappened.
    Chr
    is:
    i
    ndeedmanandyouhav
    enoi
    deahow
    muchwe'v
    emissedy
    ou.
    Si
    pho:
    ewwt
    hat
    'ssogay
    .
    Ev
    ery
    onel
    augh.
    Sipho:
    butI
    '
    m gl
    ady'
    al
    ldi
    dandImi
    ssyou
    tooguysandSi
    yawel
    cometot
    hesquad.
    Si
    ya:*
    smi
    l
    es*
    I'
    m honor
    edt
    obepar
    tofy
    ou
    guys.
    Zugo:
    *chuckl
    es*
    arey
    ousur
    eyou'
    regoi
    ng
    tol
    eave?
    Sipholooksathi
    ssi
    sterwho'
    shol
    dinghi
    m
    fordearli
    fe.
    Sipho:
    *chuckl
    es*
    Ihavet
    ooandIdon'
    tmi
    nd
    theatt
    enti
    onI'
    m get
    ti
    ngfrom her
    .
    Theyallkeeptalkingbuti
    tlooksl
    ikeSi
    pho
    i
    snol ongerwiththem,hekeepslooki
    ng
    around.
    .Tom notices.
    Tom:
    arey
    ouokayman?
    Khay
    a:yeahi
    tlooksl
    i
    key
    ou'
    reexpect
    ing
    someone.
    Si
    pho:
    noitjustt
    hatIhav
    en'
    tseenAt
    hiev
    er
    si
    nceIgothere,
    i
    sheoutoftown?
    Ever
    yonecl
    earthei
    rthr
    oatsevenMbali
    l
    oosenupaler
    ti
    ngSiphothatsomet
    hingis
    up.
    Si
    pho:
    what
    'swr
    ong?Wher
    e'sAt
    hi?
    Mbal
    i
    :uhm he'
    ser
    r.
    .
    Si
    pho:
    i
    sheok?
    Theyal
    ll
    ookatMJnotknowi
    ngwhatt
    osay
    tohi
    m.
    MJ:*clear
    shisthroat
    *rememberwhenItol
    d
    youabouty ourcousi
    nt hatal
    mosthad
    Lenhlekil
    l
    ed?
    Si
    pho:
    yeah.
    MJ:
    thatdayLenhl
    ewasbei
    ngdr
    ivenbyAt
    hi
    t
    oyourvil
    lage.
    Si
    pho:
    okwher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ngwi
    thal
    loft
    his?
    MJ:
    Athi
    gotshott
    hatdayi
    nst
    eadofLenhl
    e.
    Si
    pho:
    *shocked*
    what
    ?Whydi
    dn'
    tyout
    ell
    me?
    MJl
    ooksdownsay
    ingnot
    hing.
    Sipho:okt
    henIgett
    hathewasshotthat
    daybutwher ei
    she?Ihavesomet
    hing
    excit
    ingtotel
    lhi
    m*smil
    es*
    Tom:
    fuck!
    Tom cussesav
    oidinghi
    stear
    swhi
    char
    e
    thr
    eateni
    ngtofal
    l.
    MJ:*
    breat
    hesheavi
    ly
    * t
    hebul
    l
    etsmadea
    gr
    eatdamage*si
    ghs*hedi
    dn'
    tmakeit
    .
    Mbal
    ifeel
    sSi
    pho'
    sbodyf
    reezi
    ng.
    Sipho:
    i
    fyouguysaremessingwi
    thmej
    ust
    knowit'
    sworki
    ng*chuckl
    es*
    Si
    pholooksatev eryone'
    sfacesandthen
    ri
    ghtt
    hereher eal
    izestheyarenotj
    oking,
    it
    hi
    tshi
    m Athiisreall
    ygone...
    hegentl
    ylets
    goofhissi
    sterstandingup.
    Si
    pho:
    excuseme.
    Hewal ksoutwant i
    ngsomeai rleavi
    ng
    every
    oneinadul lmoodwel lforSne,Bel
    l
    a
    andNandiphatheywer ei nt
    hewoodsnot
    knowingwhattheyar etalki
    ngaboutasf or
    Siyaheknewsi ncehim andtheguy stal
    k
    aboutalotofthingsduringthei
    rhangouts.

    °
    Tasha°

    WhenIwasst
    il
    lwi
    thAt
    hihedi
    dtel
    lme
    abouthisclosefri
    endSiphobutIdi dn'
    t
    knowi twasSiphoasi nSiphosenkosiandI
    couldhavenev erguessedit,
    we'vebeen
    seatedhereforanhournotsay inganythi
    ng
    tooneanot heranditisal
    mostt imefor
    Siphotoleave.
    Tom:
    eishIhat
    efeel
    i
    ngl
    i
    ket
    his.
    Weal
    lchuckl
    e.
    Iknewi twouldeitherbehim orKhayawho
    tal
    ksf i
    rst,
    Mbaliseemst obeinanother
    worldIknowt hatsomehowshebl ames
    herselfforAt
    hi'
    sdeat h,
    shereal
    lyshoul
    dn'
    t
    causedeat hi
    ssomet hi
    ngnoonecan
    control.
    Khay a:
    met ooman,we'
    resupposetobe
    celebrati
    ngMbaliandMJ'sweddinghaving
    theaf t
    erpart
    ythatweplannedbut.
    .*
    sighs*.
    Mbal
    i:
    I'
    m aA.QIcoul
    dhav
    edone
    somet
    hingbutI
    ..
    ..
    "
    Nodon'
    tbl
    amey
    our
    sel
    f,Iguessi
    twashi
    s
    t
    ime"
    Weal
    ltur
    nandlookatSi
    phobyt
    hedoor
    wi
    thr
    edeyes.
    Hi
    m: I
    'm sor
    ryIdisappear
    edonyouguys
    i
    nsteadofhangingoutandenjoy
    ingmy
    si
    sterandherhusband's
    wedding*si
    ghs*andnowIhavetoleav
    e.

    Iwasreal
    lyhurt
    ingwhenAthi
    diedsodi
    d
    theguysandMbalibutSi
    phoseemstobe
    hurt
    ingmorethanwedid.
    Hehugsallofusbeforepull
    i
    nghersisteri
    n
    f
    oratightl
    onghug..
    .youknowforsi
    bl i
    ngsI
    r
    eal
    lyadmireSipho'
    sloveforhi
    ssi
    sterit
    makesmewi
    shIhadabr
    other
    .

    °
    Khay
    a°

    Ithasbeen30mi nutessi
    nceSiphol
    eftand
    we'vebeentry
    ingtocheerupyouknowt o
    getinthemoodbuti t'
    snotworki
    ngIguess
    seeingSiphol
    ikethati
    srubbi
    ngoffonus.
    Mbali
    :*
    sighs*l
    etmegocheckonmy
    babi
    es.*
    standi
    ngup*
    Mymom andMbal i'
    smom walknoscr
    atch
    t
    hat,runi
    ntowhereweareseatedl
    ooki
    ng
    f
    reakedoutal
    ert
    ingall
    ofus.
    Mbal
    i
    :mom what
    'swr
    ong?
    Mbal
    i
    'smom:
    *shaki
    ng*
    theyt
    ookt
    hem.
    Me:
    what
    ?Who?Tookwho?
    Mom: wedon' tknowIwaswithNomusai n
    herroom theyjustcametoherr oom wit
    h
    thei
    rfacescov eredupandpointedoutthei
    r
    gunstous,wet ri
    edtoscream forhel
    pbut
    twooft hem coveredourmouthsandt ook
    thetwins.
    MJ:
    *st
    andsupqui
    ckasl
    i
    ght
    ning*
    WHAT!
    !!
    Fuck!
    Mbalenhl
    e'
    smom breakdownohshi tt
    hisi
    s
    amessIcanhearbreat
    hingheavyandthe
    guysbacki
    ngawayfrom hi
    m andforMbali
    shelooksfr
    ozen.
    Tasha:
    Mbal
    i
    !!
    Fuckshecatchesherbef
    oreshecoul
    dhi
    t
    theground,
    Ial
    soseeMJcal mi
    ngdowna
    bitseei
    ngMbalifai
    nti
    ng.
    MJ:
    babe.
    Hesaysthatsl
    ightl
    ysl
    appi
    ngher
    ,hepi
    cks
    herupbr
    idalst
    y l
    e.
    Him:I'
    l
    ltakehertotheemer gency
    room,guystaketheladieshomeandmeet
    backhere,KhayaBongagett othe
    surv
    eill
    ancesroom ofthisbloodyhotel
    and
    getthefuckerswhot ookmyki ds.
    *hewalks
    out*
    Zugo:
    Tashacomewe'
    l
    ldr
    opy
    ouandSne
    off
    .
    Ihugherki
    ssi
    ngherf
    orehead.
    Me:
    I'
    l
    lcal
    lyoul
    aterohk.
    Shnodswi
    pingof
    fhert
    ear
    s.
    Me:don'
    twor
    ryMbal
    iwi
    l
    lbef
    ineandwewi
    l
    l
    f
    indmynephews.
    Her
    :pl
    easedo.
    Inodandki
    ssher
    .
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyouokay
    .
    Her
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo.
    Il
    ethergoasshefol
    lowsZugowit
    h
    Sne,
    Tom wi
    lldr
    iveNandi
    pha,
    Chri
    swil
    ldr
    ive
    Bel
    la.
    Me:
    Siy
    acomewi
    thus.
    Me,Si
    yaandBongaheadt
    othe
    sur
    vei
    l
    lancesr
    oom.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Tom hadjustparkedout
    sideNandipha'
    s
    apart
    mentandopeneddoorf orherthi
    nking
    ofthedangerousthi
    ngsthatmighthappen
    i
    nf i
    ndingt
    het wi
    ns.
    Nandi
    pha:
    thanky
    ou,
    goodby
    e*t
    urns*
    Tom:
    wai
    t.
    Shet
    urnst
    olookathi
    m.
    Tom:ift
    hepeoplewhotookMbali'
    ski
    dshad
    gunsthatmeanstheyaredanger
    ousandI
    don'
    tknowwhatmi ghthappen
    toni
    ght*
    sighs*
    Nandi
    pha:
    wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ngwi
    tht
    his?
    Tom:Nandi
    phaI'
    m aver
    ytal
    kat
    ive
    per
    son,
    I'
    mf or
    ward,
    Ican'
    tcont
    rolmy
    mouth.
    .
    Her:
    areyousure?Causei
    thasbeen2
    monthsandsomechangesinceI'
    veknown
    youandy ouseem l
    i
    keashypersonwho
    doesn'
    ttalkt
    oomuch.
    Tom:
    I'
    m onl
    yli
    ket
    hataroundyou,
    youmake
    meshyandmakemer unoutofwordst
    o
    say
    .
    Shelooksdownpl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thherhandsnot
    knowingwhatt
    osay.
    Tom: l
    etmej ustsayi t
    ,youtookmybr eat
    h
    awayi ncludingmywor dst hemomentIsaw
    you..
    ..
    ev ersincet hedayIbumpedi nt
    oyouI
    fai
    ledtogety ouoffmymi ndIev entr
    ied
    fi
    ndingy oubygoi ngbackt othatmall
    hopingt obumpi ntoyoubutIdi dn'
    tand
    fat
    ebr oughty outoMbal i
    'slif
    esowecoul d
    meetagai n.
    ..andI'v
    ebeenf ai
    li
    ngtoaskyou
    outeversi nce.
    Nandiphakeepslooki
    ngdownwi thher
    heartbeat
    ingoutofherchestnotbel
    ievi
    ng
    whatherearsareheari
    ng..
    theguyshe's
    crushi
    ngonlikesher.
    Tom:Idonotwantt
    ousethewordLOVE
    causeIhav
    en'
    tlear
    nedmuchaboutl
    ovebut
    Ir
    eal
    l
    yli
    key
    oua.
    ..
    Sheshut
    shi
    m upwi
    thaki
    ss.
    Her:
    youwererighty
    ouaretal
    kati
    veandI
    l
    ikeyoutoonowgof indMbal
    i'
    skidsand
    makesureyoucomebacksoIcant each
    youthemeaningoflove*
    smil
    es*
    Tom smil
    esunabl
    etoexpl
    aint
    hef
    eel
    i
    ng
    he'
    sfeel
    i
    ng.
    -
    —-—
    ~
    Theguyswer
    enowal
    lbackatt
    hehot
    el
    i
    ncludi
    ngMJ.
    Chr
    is:
    howi
    sshe?
    MJ:
    she'
    sfi
    ne,
    she'
    srest
    ingi
    nherpar
    ent
    's
    r
    oom..
    didy
    oufindt
    hem?
    Khay
    a:nonot
    hingcameupont
    hef
    oot
    ages
    soIt
    hinktheyti
    ppedof
    fthesecuri
    tyt
    hat
    wasduty.
    ..
    all
    wehav et
    odoisfindoutwho
    i
    twasandgot ohim.
    MJst andsupandst
    artpunchi
    ngt
    hewal
    l
    scar
    ingtheguys.
    MJ:
    *fr
    ust
    rat
    ed*
    wedonothav
    ehet
    ime!
    !!
    !
    Bonga:
    b..
    .
    Heget sdistur
    bedbyt hedoort hatswings
    openandt her
    est andsMbal enhl
    ewi t
    ha
    str
    aightfaceandherdr eadlockswerenow
    whiteincolourwhi chconf
    usedev eryone
    i
    ncludingMJcausewhent heycameback
    fr
    om theemer gencyr oom i
    twasi tnormal
    col
    ourbei ngblack.
    Mbal
    i
    :Iknowwher
    etheyar
    elet
    'sgo.
    Ev
    enherv
    oicehadchanged.
    MJ:
    babeIcan'
    tri
    sky
    ouget
    ti
    nghur
    t,
    justt
    ell
    uswher
    etheyar
    eandwewi
    l
    ltakec.
    ..
    Mbal
    i
    :NO!
    MJ:
    *shocked*
    Mbal
    enhl
    e.
    Mbali
    :
    Jasontheyar
    eexpecti
    ngyou,
    they
    knowyouandtheyarepr
    epared.
    Khay
    a:whoi
    s"t
    hey
    "?
    Mbali:
    Smaandhergoons,MJyouhav
    eto
    underst
    andthatyouarenomat
    chtowhat
    theyhavepr
    eparedforyou.
    MJ:
    andy
    ouar
    e?Babepl
    ease.
    Mbal
    i
    :I
    'm aA.
    Qdonotunder
    est
    imat
    eme.
    Khaya:
    MJjustli
    stent
    oherandSmais
    powerf
    ulyousawhowshehurtyouand
    worseyouwereinR.Tfor
    m.
    MJl
    ooksatLenhl
    eforasec.
    .
    .
    ..
    .
    .
    .
    .
    Ithasbeenanhoursi ncet heystarted
    wal kingonf ootandt hemor et heywal ked
    themor eMJ' sangerescal atedhe'snowi n
    R. Tfor m buthe'smor eincont roland
    besi deshi mi sLenhl einawat erbubbl e,
    with
    firear oundbot hherhandsandr ocks
    floatingar oundsincet here'sairswirl
    ing
    ar oundt hebubbl e..
    .shehast hedr awingal l
    ov erherbodywhi char ebr i
    ghtast hemoon
    i
    ncl udi ngherey esev enherhai rit
    'sfl
    oat i
    ng
    ar oundt heai rgl
    owi ngev ent heweat her
    wasnowchi ll
    yandbesi desLenhl eisMj t
    he
    j
    aguarwhohashi swhitef
    urglowingtoo
    andbehindthe3i stheguyscarryi
    ngguns
    withst
    raightf
    aces..t
    heyallfr
    eakedout
    whentheysawMbal ili
    kethatbutcool
    ed
    downwhenshet oldthem shewouldn'
    thur
    t
    them.
    Fort
    hefi
    rstti
    meeverKhayaisnotaf
    rai
    d
    bei
    ngsoclosetoMJatthatstat
    e.
    Smaandhergoonshav
    enoi
    deawhat
    's
    comi
    ngthei
    rway.

    Fi
    nal
    e

    ~i
    nser
    t83~

    °
    Tasha°
    Sne:comeonI'
    m sur
    eMbal
    ii
    sokayand
    theywil
    lfi
    ndt
    hetwins.
    Me:*si
    ghi
    ng*Iknowi
    t'
    sjustthateveryt
    hing
    hasalimi
    t.
    .hasn'
    tMbal
    ibeent hr
    ough
    enough?I
    t'
    salwayshi
    tafterhi
    tafterhi
    t,i
    t'
    s
    toomuchnow.
    Sne:*sighs*she'smycousinandwearenot
    thatclosebuti tdoessoundsli
    keshehas
    beent hroughal ot.
    Me: y
    ouhav enoi
    dea,whenev ershestart
    s
    torelaxthinki
    ngthebadthingshav epassed
    thenoutofnowher esomet hi
    ngbadcomes
    along.Allshedoesissmile,
    beni ceand
    alway sgl
    adt oof
    ferhelpbutthet hi
    ngsli
    fe
    throwsbackatherar en'
    tsoni ce.
    Sne:
    your
    eal
    l
    ylov
    eher
    .
    Me:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    somuch,shemaybey
    ounger
    t
    hanmebutIlookupt
    oher.
    Sne:
    Ihav
    eneverhadsomeonewhocar
    es
    aboutmethewayyoucar
    eforMbal
    i
    .
    Me:don'tworr
    yt hereareabout7bil
    li
    on
    peopleintheentir
    eplanetsoy ou'
    l
    lfi
    nd
    someone* smil
    i
    ng* anywayenoughabout
    thatuhI'v
    eneverhear dyouspeakofy our
    boyfri
    endbefore.
    Sne:
    aghIrecentl
    ybr okeupwi
    thhim soI'
    m
    si
    nglebutIam crushingont
    hispar
    ti
    cular
    guy.
    Me:
    wuuuhdoIknowhi
    m?
    Her
    :*bl
    ushi
    ng*
    yeahi
    t'
    sTom.
    Me:
    *cl
    ear
    ingmyt
    hroat
    *uhm er
    r
    Her
    :what
    ?
    Me:y
    oudoknowt
    hatTom l
    i
    kesNandi
    pha
    r
    ight
    ?
    Her
    :owwwuhnoIdi
    dn'
    tknow*
    fakesa
    smi
    le*
    Sheseemssadnow.
    Me:
    I'
    m sor
    rybabe.

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Smaandhergoonswer
    eout
    sideexecut
    ing
    thei
    rpl
    an
    Sma:sohere'
    sthethi
    ngs..
    sendthehusband
    ourl
    ocati
    onandt el
    lhi
    mt ocomeal one.
    ..
    we
    knowhewon'tlist
    enhe'l
    lpr
    obablycome
    wit
    hhismen, sowhentheygethereleave
    himtomeandy ouguyswil
    ltakecareofhis
    menwhil
    eIleadhimi
    nsi
    detothetr
    apandI
    wi
    lll
    ett
    heli
    onsfreet
    odevourhi
    m wit
    hhi
    s
    st
    upi
    dkids.
    ..
    Guy
    :butbossdon'
    tyout
    hinkt
    hatweshoul
    d
    l
    ett
    hekidsleav
    e,t
    heyar
    esoyoung.
    Sma:Idonotwantlooseendssonot
    hey
    wi
    ll
    di ewi
    ththei
    rfather
    .
    Herguy
    snodl
    ooki
    ngdown.
    Sma: asIwassayi
    ng,oncehe'
    sdeadalong
    wit
    hhi skidsandmenwewi ll
    usehisphone
    toluremycousinhereanddonotworry
    abouthershe'sal
    lmineIdonotneedthe
    l
    ionswi thher
    ..
    Iwi
    llr
    eapherheartout
    my self
    .
    Theguysgul
    pseei
    ngthatt
    heyar
    ewor
    king
    fort
    hedevi
    lher
    sel
    f.
    Sma:
    nowgett
    owor
    k!
    Thequickl
    ynodt
    aki
    ngoutt
    hel
    apt
    opandi
    t
    st
    artgett
    ingr
    eal
    l
    ywindy
    .
    Guy
    1:may
    beweshoul
    dgoi
    nsi
    det
    hewi
    nd
    i
    sbecomi
    ngt
    oomuch.
    Guy
    2:y
    eahwew.
    ..
    .wai
    twhatt
    hef
    ucki
    sthat
    ?
    Theyalllookatthedirecti
    onhe'slookingat
    andalltheyseeisar eall
    ybri
    ghtlightand
    somesor tofredthingienexttothel i
    ght
    theycan'tseeproperl
    ysinceitisalready
    dark.
    Guy
    3:wi
    tchcr
    aftati
    tbestIt
    ell
    youei
    mcm.
    Guy
    4:noguy
    sit
    'scomi
    ngourway
    .
    Itgetsevenmor ewindyandSmaget
    s
    aler
    ted,shelooksatwhattheguy
    sar
    e
    l
    ookingat .
    Sma:
    that
    'shi
    mf uckhowdidhefi
    ndus!?Ok
    ev
    ery
    oneleavewhatyou'
    redoi
    nggetyour
    guns.
    Theyputthel
    aptopawaysti
    l
    llooki
    ngatt
    he
    l
    ightt
    ryi
    ngtofi
    gureoutwhatiti
    s.
    Sma:
    NOW!
    !!
    !
    Theyj
    umpget
    ti
    ngt
    hei
    rguns.
    Sma:
    y'
    al
    lready
    ?Causei
    tison.
    Guy3:Ijusthaveanaskbosslady,
    youtol
    d
    usaboutt hatredthingi
    esowhatoneart
    his
    thatglowingthing??
    Smalooksclosel
    yandreal
    izewhathe's
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutbutshedoesn'thavean
    answerforhi
    m causeshealsodoesn'
    t
    know..
    shepacesupanddownt r
    yingt
    o
    thi
    nk.
    Sma:okher
    e'st
    heplanlet
    'swaitf
    orthem t
    o
    gettoussowecanseewhatwe' redeal
    i
    ng
    wit
    hbutyourgunsbet
    terbeloadedand
    r
    eadyt
    obef
    ir
    ed.
    Theguy sstandinalinewiththei
    rloaded
    gunsandhonest lyscar
    edandi nfrontof
    them standsSmaconf ident
    lywit
    ha
    strai
    ghtdangerousfaceandherhandson
    herpockets.
    WhenMbal enhleandt heguysget
    stoSma
    andhergoonsSmaget sr
    eal
    lyshockedt
    o
    seeMbaliespecial
    lythewaysheisbutshe
    doesn'
    tshowt hem hershock.
    Theyal
    llookateachotherwi
    thdeadstar
    es
    notsay
    inganythi
    ngfor2goodminutes.
    Sma:
    sohowmaywehel
    pyou?
    Mbal
    i:
    justgi
    veuswhatbel
    ongst
    ousand
    noonegetshur
    t.
    I
    t'
    sli
    kei
    tisnotev
    enherspeaki
    ng.
    Sma:
    *chuckl
    es*
    whatmakesy
    out
    hinkI
    '
    m
    scar
    edofy
    ou?I
    nfactal
    lofy
    ou.
    Mbal
    enhl
    elooksdowntoMjthej
    aguarand
    hi
    m anodMj wal
    kstowar
    dsSma.
    Mbal
    i
    :wel
    lIguessi
    t'
    syourf
    uner
    al.
    Sma:
    w..
    .
    Shedidn'
    tfi
    nisht
    hatsentenceMjthej
    aguar
    j
    umpedonherandev eryonestar
    tsshoot
    ing
    cover
    ingthemsel
    ves.
    Lenhl est epsoutoft hebubbl
    esoshecan
    goi nsidet hewarehouset ogetherbabies
    butget sblockedbySmawhohasnow
    transfor medshequi cklyl
    ooksov ertoMj
    thej aguarandseet hathe'
    shurtwellNcami
    didsayt hathe'snomat chfortheanimals
    oft hedar kforestandSmai soneof
    them. ..
    ..Smaseest hatMbal i
    isdistr
    act
    ed
    andt r
    iest ojumponherbutR. Tjumpson
    herf
    ir
    standt
    heystartf
    ight
    ingcl
    awt
    o
    cl
    aw,t
    eet
    htoteet
    h..
    .
    Mbal iusesherpower stol i
    ftMj thejaguar
    upsheput shi
    mi nt hebubbl eandf ocuses
    onget tingherbabi esagai nbutoneoft he
    guysj umpi nf
    rontofherpoi ntingagunat
    hershej ustbl
    owst hegunoutofhi shand
    andgr abst heguybyhi st hroat..
    theguy
    surprisinglydoesn'tfeel anypai nbutdoes
    feelcoldnessf rom hist oesmov ing
    upwar dshi sbodyhet ri
    est omov ebutf ail
    s
    to,
    Mbal ilet
    sgoofhi m hequi cklylooks
    downandseeshi sl owerbodyf r
    ozenand
    thecol dnesskeepmov ingupwar dstil
    l
    there'snomor ehim Mbal ibacksawayf rom
    himl eav i
    nghimf rozen.

    Zugogr
    absTom byhi
    sshi
    rtsav
    inghi
    m
    f
    rom abul
    l
    et.
    Zugo:
    thef
    uckdude!
    ?Doy
    ouwantt
    odi
    e??
    Tom:
    *fr
    eakedout
    *di
    dyouseet
    hat
    ?
    Zugo:
    seewhat
    ?
    Tom:
    shef
    rozehi
    m.
    Zugo:
    whatasy
    ..
    Tom:
    l
    ookatt
    hatguy
    ,Mbal
    ifr
    ozehi
    m.
    Zugolookswher
    eTom i
    spoi
    nti
    ngandhe'
    s
    shockedtoo.
    Chr
    is:
    TOM,
    ZUGO!
    !!MOVEFROM THERE!
    !!
    !
    Tom andZugodonotaskquest i
    ons
    knowingthatt
    heot hergoonsmustbe
    behindt
    hem theyrunt otheothersidebut
    Tom getsshot.
    ..
    Siyamanagest ot ake
    thoseguysoutandt heyallr
    untoTom.
    Smaget
    ssmar
    tandl
    eadR.
    Tinsi
    det
    he
    warehouseandletoutthe3hungry
    l
    ions,
    theli
    onsgetoutofthecagelooki
    ngat
    R.Twhoi sr
    eadytofightknowi
    ngverywell
    he'
    snomat chfor3lionsbuthe'
    snotgoing
    downwi t
    houtafight
    .
    Khaya:
    Tom don'
    tyoudarecl
    osey
    ourey
    es
    youhearme?Don'tyoudar
    e.
    Chri
    s:IswearTom i
    fyouclosey
    ourey
    esI
    wil
    lpunchtheshitoutofy
    ou.
    Bongakeepsput
    ti
    ngpr
    essur
    eonhi
    swound.
    Zugo:
    Athi
    alr
    eadyl
    eftussodon'
    tyoudar
    e.
    Si
    ya:
    yeahTom yousti
    ll
    hav
    esomucht
    otel
    l
    meaboutArchi
    tectr
    emember
    ?
    Khaya:
    donotdieonusman, y
    oust
    il
    lhaveto
    askNandi
    phaout,youoweme2ksopl ease
    Tom canyoubeli
    eveI'
    m ev
    enbeggi
    ngy ou.
    Tom keepsl
    ooki
    ngatt
    hem f
    ight
    ingt
    onot
    cl
    osehi
    sey
    es.
    Ever
    yonehear
    sR.
    T'roar
    soutl
    oudi
    npai
    n
    fr
    om insi
    det
    hewar
    ehouse.
    Mbal
    enhl
    el ooksatt
    hedoorl
    eadi
    nginsi
    de
    t
    hewarehousethenatTom t
    henbackat
    t
    hedoorthenbackatTom.

    Tom issti
    llal
    ivemeaningther
    e'sst
    il
    la
    chanceforhimi fonl
    yMbalenhl
    ehelpshim
    andinsi
    deR. Tisbeingdev
    ouredbylionsi
    f
    onlyMbalenhletheA.Qcouldwalki
    nand
    hel
    phim.
    Whatshoul
    dMbal
    enhl
    edo?
    .
    .

    Cont
    inuat
    ion¶

    #Nar
    rat
    ed

    Mbal
    enhl
    etr
    iest
    othi
    nkf
    astofwhatt
    odo.
    Shequi
    ckl
    yrushesov
    ert
    oTom.
    Mbal
    i
    :I
    'v
    egothi
    m gohel
    pMJ.
    Khay
    a:ar
    ey.
    ..
    Mbal
    i
    :GO!
    !!
    Theyallr
    ushinsi
    deandt heyareshockedto
    seeli
    onsbuttheycomebackt ot hei
    r
    sensessoonandf i
    reshotstoscarethe
    l
    ionsassoonast heyletMJgot heyshot
    them assoonasthelionsgodownt hey
    rushtoMJwhoi sawf ul
    ly
    weak,
    unconsci
    ousandbackt
    ohi
    snor
    mal
    sel
    f.
    Meanwhil
    eMbal enhleusesherpowerst
    o
    takeoutt
    hebulletandthenuseswatert
    o
    healTom af
    tersomef ewmi nut
    esTom
    bouncesbackasi fhenevergotshot
    .
    Tom:
    woah.
    Hest
    andsupandst
    ret
    cheshi
    msel
    f.
    Tom: wowthesepowersofyours,
    Idonot
    feelathi
    ng.
    ..
    Ihavetosaythisi
    sreal
    ly
    creepybutI
    'm gr
    atef
    ulthankyousomuch.
    Mbal
    enhl
    efakesasmi
    l
    e.
    Tom:
    arey
    ouok?
    Mbali
    :yeah,
    nowIhav
    etogohelpmy
    husbandandfi
    ndmybabies.
    Tom:
    yeahl
    et'
    sgo.
    Tom r
    ushesov ert
    othedoorhet
    urnsand
    seeMbalist
    ruggli
    ngtost
    andup.
    Tom:
    Mbal
    iar
    eyousur
    eyouar
    eok?
    Herushesbackt
    oherandhel
    pherst
    ands
    up.
    Tom:
    youl
    ookweakr
    eal
    l
    yweak.
    Mbal
    i
    :heal
    i
    ngsomeonedoest
    his.
    Tom:
    ohgodI
    '
    m sor
    ryy
    ..
    Mbali
    :
    noTom Iwant
    edt
    oonowhel
    pmeget
    i
    nthere.
    Tom helpsherwishingsheneverheal
    ed
    him si
    ncehedidn'tknowtheoutcomeof
    theheali
    ngprocess.
    Theguysar
    eshockedandhappyt
    osee
    Tom onhi
    sfeet
    .
    Zugo:
    Tom!Thankgody
    oudi
    dn'
    tgo
    t
    owar dst
    hel
    i
    ght
    ,Mbal
    ithanky
    ..
    wai
    twhat
    's
    wrong?
    Mbal
    i
    :not
    hing,
    wher
    e'sSma?
    Si
    ya:
    she'
    ssomewher
    einher
    e.
    Bonga:
    andI
    '
    mthi
    nki
    ngt
    het
    winsar
    ewi
    th
    her
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :whyi
    sMJl
    ayi
    ngont
    hef
    loorl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ?
    Khay
    a:he'
    sw..
    wai
    tyouheal
    edTom which
    meansyoucanal
    sohealMJ,
    he'
    sreal
    l
    y
    weakMbali
    .
    Khayasay sthatwithsadnesswri
    tt
    enall
    overhisface,
    Tom looksatMbaliwithhi
    s
    heartbeati
    ngf ast
    .Mbalenhlesl
    owlywal
    ks
    toherhusbandandkneel downinfr
    ontof
    him whichisquiteamission.
    Bonga:
    arey
    ousur
    eyouar
    eok?
    Shenods.
    Mbal
    i
    :gof
    indherandmybabi
    es.
    Theyal
    lnodwal
    ki
    ngawayexcl
    udi
    ngTom.
    Tom:i
    sther
    eanywayy oucoul
    drev
    erse
    sav
    ingme,youknowunhealmesomehow.
    Mbal
    i
    :*sof
    tl
    y*Tom.
    .
    Tom:NoMbal
    il
    ookhowweaky ouareand
    l
    ookatMJ,
    he'
    sevenunconsci
    ous.
    ..
    ..
    unheal
    meletmedi
    eandhel
    phim.
    Mbal
    i
    :Tom go.
    Tom:
    NoI
    ..
    .
    Mbal
    i
    :ISAI
    DGO!
    !!
    Tom l
    ooksatMbal
    iwi
    thsadnessi
    nhi
    sface
    bef
    orewalki
    ngawayt
    oo.
    Mbalenhler
    unsherhandsonMJ'sfacewi
    th
    t
    earsstreamingdownlooki
    ngatt
    hebrui
    ses
    al
    lov
    erhi
    sbody
    .
    Mbali
    :I
    '
    m sorr
    y,Ihopey
    ou'
    l
    lfi
    ndi
    tiny
    our
    hear
    ttofor
    giveme.
    Shebendsherheaddownandkisseshis
    l
    ips,
    thensheclosesherey
    esandstar
    tthe
    heal
    ingprocess.

    Meanwhi
    leSiphot
    akesouthisphoneand
    makesacall
    ..
    ..
    wel
    lhe'
    ssti
    ll
    ont hejet
    headi
    ngback./
    /
    Ncami
    :
    son.
    Sipho:mahyouhavet
    odosomet
    hing,
    Ican
    feelherget
    ti
    ngevenweaker
    .
    Ncami
    :
    *si
    ghs*
    ther
    e'snot
    hingIcando.
    Si
    pho:whyi
    ssheevenweak?What
    'sgoing
    oncauseIonl
    ylef
    tafewhour
    sago,what
    coul
    dpossi
    blybewr
    ong?
    Ncami
    :
    Someoneki
    dnappedt
    het
    wins.
    Si
    pho:
    What
    !??
    Ncami:andduri
    ngourt r
    aini
    ngItol
    dherthat
    shecannotheal t
    wiceinadayat l
    eastshe
    mustwai t3daysbeforeheal
    ingagain
    becauseit'
    sri
    skyandv er
    ydangerousshe
    mightevenloseherli
    fe.
    Sipho:
    *breathi
    ngheavy*noIcan'
    tloseherI
    j
    ustcan'tpleasethi
    nkofsomethingther
    e
    hastobesomet hi
    ng..
    .
    Ncami
    :t
    hisisAvatarbusi
    ness,
    Icoul
    dn'
    t
    hel
    pherevenifIknowhowt o.
    Hi
    sphonesl
    owlysli
    desoffhishand,
    get
    ti
    ng
    weakhi
    msel
    f,
    tear
    sstreamingdown.
    Theguyswalkbackwiththetwinsandthe
    deadSmaandt heyfi
    ndbothMJandMbal i
    l
    ayingdown..
    .t
    heyrushtothem andtr
    yto
    wakethem up.
    Khay
    a:MJ!
    Si
    ya:
    hol
    don,
    wher
    edi
    dal
    lhi
    sbr
    uisesgo?
    Khay
    a:*
    frust
    rat
    ed*
    Idon'
    tknow.
    MJopenshi seyesgaspingforai
    r,
    thefir
    st
    thi
    ngheseesi shi
    skidshesmi l
    estaking
    them fr
    om Tom andBongaandki ssthem
    allov
    erthei
    rfaceswhil
    et heymakebaby
    sounds.
    MJ:
    whathappened?
    Theyl
    ookathi
    m shocked.
    Zugo:y
    oudon'
    tremembert
    hel
    i
    ons
    at
    tacki
    ngyou?
    MJ:Ir
    ememberthatv
    erywel
    lbutwai
    twhy
    don'
    tIfeel
    anypai
    n?
    Khay
    a:we'
    l
    lbel
    yi
    ngi
    fwesayweknow.
    Tom:
    Mbal
    ..
    .
    MJ:
    wher
    eisshe?
    Theyal lst
    andupandbackupl ookingat
    Mbal i,
    MJsl owl yfollowst heirgazeand
    freezeswhenheseesher ..
    ..
    hel ooksat
    Khay aandmot i
    onhi mt ocomet aket he
    kidsKhay adoest hat.Hest andsupand
    picksherupt henpl acesheront opoft he
    table,heslowl yli
    ftsupherT- shirtandhi s
    stomachchangeswi thtear sstreami ng,he
    thenchecksherpul seandf indsnone. ..
    he
    j
    ustf ailstocont rolhimsel fhesobsl oudl y
    holdingont ohert ight.Tom sl i
    desdownt he
    wal lalsocrying,Khay atriest oactt oughbut
    fail
    scauset hisist hef i
    rstt i
    mehei sseei ng
    hisbrothercry
    ing..
    .ChrisandZugowi pes
    offtheirt
    earsandt akethetwinsfr
    om
    Khay acausetheycanseehe' salsonot
    handlingitwel
    l..
    .Si
    yaandBongaal soshed
    tear
    st heykeepwi pingem offbuti
    t'
    sno
    usecauset heykeepf al
    li
    ng.
    .
    .
    Mbal
    enhl
    eopensherey
    esl
    ooki
    ngar
    ound.
    "
    Wel
    comebackt
    otheA.
    Sdi
    mensi
    on"
    Mbal
    i
    :whatam Idoi
    ngher
    e?
    A.Q1:youwerewarnedaboutt
    hedanger
    sof
    usingyourpowersthewayyoudi
    dbutyou
    sti
    llwentthr
    oughwithi
    t.
    .why?
    Mbal
    i
    :Icoul
    dn'
    tl
    ethi
    m di
    e.
    A.
    Q2:
    soy
    our
    iskedy
    ourownl
    i
    fei
    nst
    ead?
    Mbali:
    i
    fI'
    m giv
    enanotherchance,
    Iwoul
    dn'
    t
    changeanythi
    ngIwoulddowhatIdidagai
    n.
    TheAv
    atarQueensl
    ookateachshocked.
    Mbali:
    mebei
    ngher
    eagai
    n,
    doesi
    tmeans
    I
    'm dead?
    Theynodandshel
    ooksdownshat
    ter
    ed.
    A.
    Q1:
    giv
    eusasec.
    Theywal
    kbackal
    i
    ttl
    ebi
    t.
    A.
    Q2:
    i
    t'
    snoty
    ethert
    ime.
    A.Q3:
    Iknowplusshehasn'
    theal
    edher
    brot
    her,
    youknow..
    removet
    hecursesohe
    canhaveanheir
    .
    A.Q4:
    butwhatshedidwasst
    upid,sheknew
    verywel
    lthi
    ngswil
    lendl
    iket
    his.
    A.
    Q2:
    whyar
    eyoual
    way
    ssohear
    tl
    ess?
    A.
    Q4:
    I'
    m notbutshehast
    osucki
    tuandl
    ..
    ..
    .
    A.
    Q1:
    SHUTUP!
    !
    Theyal
    lbowt
    hei
    rheadsaf
    teral
    lshei
    s
    l
    eader.
    A.Q1:
    I'
    mt hel
    eaderandIgett
    odeci
    denot
    youandmydecisionist
    hatwearesendi
    ng
    herback.
    A.
    Q4:
    but
    ..
    .
    A.
    Q1:
    i
    t'
    sfi
    nal
    .
    Sheturnswal
    kingbacktoMbal
    enhl
    ewi
    th
    theother
    sfol
    l
    owi ngher
    .
    .
    .
    Aft
    ersometi
    meMJcal msdownandl
    ooks
    atSmalay
    ingl
    if
    elessont
    hefl
    oor
    .
    MJ:
    whydi
    dyouki
    l
    lher
    ?
    Zugo:
    wedi
    dn'
    t,
    whenwegott
    other
    oom
    shewasatwitht
    het
    winswef
    oundher
    al
    readydead.
    MJl ooksathim want i
    ngtosay" t
    hat
    doesn'tmakeanysense"buthehasno
    str
    engt htoevensayi t
    ..
    .helooksatLenhl
    e
    sti
    llsheddingtears,
    hebendshi sdownto
    herfaceandki ssesherwithhisclosed
    tr
    yingt oimaginehowl i
    feisgoingtobe
    withouther..
    ..
    themomentheopenshi s
    eyest heymeetupwi thLenhle'
    shej umps
    backi nterr
    or.
    MJ:
    Hol
    yshi
    t!
    !!
    !!
    .

    Int
    heJet

    /
    /
    Ncami
    :
    she'
    sok.
    Shesay
    sthatwi
    thsomuchexci
    tement
    maki
    ngSi
    phosi
    ghi
    nrel
    i
    ef.
    Si
    pho:
    oht
    hankgodIal
    mostl
    osti
    t.
    Ncami
    :
    andIhav
    egoodnewsf
    ory
    ou.
    Si
    pho:
    what
    ?
    Ncami:y
    ourfather
    'sr
    equestfory
    outo
    comeandf i
    nishouri
    nit
    iat
    ionthi
    ssi
    dejust
    gotapprov
    e.
    Si
    pho:
    *smi
    l
    ing*
    whatar
    eyousay
    ing?
    Ncami
    :
    nextweeky
    ou'
    recomi
    ngback.
    Si
    phol
    ooksatSJwi
    thex
    cit
    ement
    .
    .
    .
    Wellt
    hingswor
    kedoutforevery
    oneinthe
    end,
    MJ'suncl
    ewaskil
    ledinhiscel
    lby
    someonewhowasaskedaf avourfr
    om
    Bonga.
    Howt
    hefuckdidSmadie?Wel
    lthatshal
    l
    r
    emai
    namy ster
    yunl
    essyouhaveanacti
    ve
    i
    magi
    nat
    ion.

    Theend.
    ..
    (ofseason1)
    ❣ ❣

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