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  • To Dare Is To Do

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    mbali
    170 views1,350 pages
    Moera expresses boredom with her recurring sexual encounters with Moss, describing them as predictable and lacking emotional connection. Moss accuses Moera of lying and becomes angry, but she reiterates that she finds their arrangement boring. Their interaction grows tense as Moera wants changes and Moss wants to maintain the status quo.

    Original Description:

    Original Title

    TO DARE IS TO DO

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    Moera expresses boredom with her recurring sexual encounters with Moss, describing them as predictable and lacking emotional connection. Moss accuses Moera of lying and becomes angry, but she reiterates that she finds their arrangement boring. Their interaction grows tense as Moera wants changes and Moss wants to maintain the status quo.

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Flag for inappropriate content
    Download as pdf or txt
    170 views1,350 pages

    To Dare Is To Do

    Uploaded by

    mbali
    Moera expresses boredom with her recurring sexual encounters with Moss, describing them as predictable and lacking emotional connection. Moss accuses Moera of lying and becomes angry, but she reiterates that she finds their arrangement boring. Their interaction grows tense as Moera wants changes and Moss wants to maintain the status quo.

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Flag for inappropriate content
    Download as pdf or txt
    of 1350

    O

    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    PROLOGUE
    .
    .
    .

    ***Tarekwentinandoutofherf ast
    erreachi
    ng
    hi
    sendandsl ammedi ntoherpushingitdeeper
    anddeeperashef i
    ll
    edherupwi thhisjui
    ces
    cursi
    ng….hepulledoutandr eachedforatowel
    andwipedbot hofthem t henhebendtoher
    bell
    yandkissedi tt
    hent hebabymov ed,awi de
    smileplast
    eredonhi sface***
    Tar
    ek:
    didy
    ouf
    eel
    that
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    l
    ingwi
    del
    y**
    *
    Samke:
    yeah
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    that
    ir
    edv
    oice*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    myboyi
    sgrowi
    ngdamn….
    icantwai
    tto
    hol
    dhi
    minmyarms
    ***hesai dbrushingherbel l
    yandt hebaby
    kickedagai n….Samkecl osedherey esassl eep
    tookov erandTar ekswallowedhar dashi s
    mi ndimmedi at
    elywentt ohiswife….thisshoul
    d
    behercar ry
    inghisseedbutci rcumst ances
    madehi m breakhi svowsanddowhathe
    promisedhi msel fthathewi l
    lneverdo…. He
    hopest hathi splanwor kscauseonet hi
    nghe
    cantaccepti st olosehiswifeorhi schild.
    ..
    He
    gotoffbedandt ookhisphoneandsendhi s
    wifealov ingmassageandt ur
    nedl ookingat
    Samkef eeli
    nggui lt
    y***
    Tar
    ek:
    “f@#k”
    *
    **hecur
    sedwi
    thal
    owv
    oicebr
    ushi
    nghi
    shead
    andwentt
    othebat
    hroom*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    Tshi
    mologo:
    cany
    oust
    opcal
    l
    ingmef
    or
    heav
    enssake
    Joe:whyar eyouactingup...whatyou’redoing
    i
    schildi
    shTshi mo…. it
    oldyout hatI’
    m mar ri
    ed
    i
    ncommuni tyofpropert
    yandwhenIdi vorce
    hershe’l
    lgethalfofeverysh!tIown….Iwor ked
    hardformysh! twhil
    eshej ustate,sh!tinmy
    houseIboughtandsl eepst henpoppedbabi es
    l
    eftri
    ghtandcent erasifshe’sneverhear dof
    bir
    thcontrol
    ….butnoy oudontwantt o
    underst
    andt hatri
    ght….y
    ou’rebeingsel f
    ishand
    youknowi t
    ***
    Tshimosniff
    edandwi pedhert
    earst
    henshe
    shookherheadaskinghersel
    fwhyshe’
    s
    enter
    tai
    ningt
    hisfool*
    **
    Joe:al
    li
    m askingisti
    meatl
    eastunt
    ilshegi
    ves
    bi
    rthandI’
    l
    lstartwit
    hthedi
    vorce
    *
    **Tshi
    most
    art
    edl
    aughi
    ng*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    youmustt
    hinki
    m af
    ool
    neh
    Joe:
    what
    ??
    Tshimo:fouryearsandyou’r
    estil
    lsi
    ngi
    ngt he
    samet uneJoel….i
    m donewithyouandy our
    l
    ies….st
    aywi t
    hy ourwi
    femot howaModi moand
    keeponget ti
    ngherpregnantandI’
    ll
    giv
    e
    seri
    ousguy sachance
    Joe:whowil
    ll
    oveyoul
    ikeIdowena….y
    ouare
    nothi
    ngwi
    thoutmeTshimol
    ogo.
    ..
    nothi
    ng!
    !
    Tshi
    mo: i
    m si
    ngl
    ewithoutyouandreadyt
    o
    mingl
    e…..l
    osemynumber sandstayawayfr
    om
    meorelseyourwi
    feandkidswill
    knowhow
    muchofamanwh#r edaddyisnxa
    Joe:
    ist
    hathow…
    Tshi
    mo:
    cont
    inuehar
    assi
    ngmeandI
    ’
    llgeta
    rest
    rai
    ningor
    deragai
    nsty
    ounxapi
    eceof
    sh#t!
    !!
    !
    *
    **t
    henshedr
    oppedthecal
    landsni
    ff
    edas
    t
    ear
    sgushedout
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:FOURWASTEDYEARS….
    FOUR
    WASTEDF#CK#NYEARS!
    !!
    **
    *shescr
    eamedandbust
    edoutwi
    thal
    oud
    cr
    y***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    ***
    Alphal et
    tewokeupsweat ingand
    panti
    ng. .
    .hequi
    ckl
    yswi tchedont hesidelamp
    andsi ghedwipi
    nghisf acewi thhishand...
    he
    gotof fbedandwentt owar dstheensui t
    bathroom andswitchedont helightandhe
    walkedi nsi
    deandwashedhi sf ace***
    Al
    pha:
    f#ck!
    !!
    ***hewonder edwhyhekeepsdr eami ngoft he
    scenet hathappenedtwoy earsback…nowi t
    hast urnedintoanight
    maret hatwontgo
    away ..
    .hesighedandwalkedoutoft he
    bathroom andhest oppedonhi stracks….he
    quicklywentdownonhi sonekneeandl ooked
    downwi thhishear
    tbeati
    ngf ast*
    **
    Fi
    gur
    e:ur
    ikudanwa
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    bet
    her
    ebef
    oresunr
    ise
    ***
    thenthefi
    guredi
    sappear
    edandAlpha
    si
    ghedgetti
    ngup….hewentbacktot
    he
    bathr
    oom andtookashowerwithaheav
    y
    heart
    ***
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ***
    Moeraheldonti
    ghttot
    het ableasMoss
    poundedherfr
    om behi
    ndgroaningli
    kean
    ani
    mal….Sher
    oll
    edhereyesandf akemoaned
    asMossconti
    nuedtopleasurehimself….
    aft
    era
    fewstr
    okeshesti
    ll
    edandreleasedhisload
    i
    nsidet
    hecondom wit
    hhisjawscl enched*
    **
    Moss:
    damny
    ou’
    regoodbabygi
    rl
    *
    **Moer
    aroll
    edhereyesandf
    akedasmi
    l
    e
    t
    urni
    ngherheadt
    ofacehim**
    *
    Moer
    a:t
    hanky
    oudaddy
    ***
    hepul
    ledoutandshestoodstr
    aightf
    ixi
    ng
    herdr
    essashecleanedhi
    mselfup***
    Moss:
    nowt
    ell
    mewhyy
    oul
    yi
    ngt
    ome
    Moer
    a:aski
    es?
    ?
    Moss:
    youf
    akedev
    ery
    thi
    ng….
    fr
    om y
    ourmoans
    t
    oyoursmi
    l
    e
    **
    *hesaidwi
    thanangryvoi
    cepul
    l
    inguphi
    s
    br
    ief
    salongwit
    hhi
    strouser
    s**
    *
    Moer
    a:Idi
    dnt
    ….
    Moss:
    dontpi
    ssmeof
    fbyl
    yi
    ngt
    omeMoer
    a!!
    ***
    hesaidint
    err
    upt
    ingherandshesi
    ghedf
    ixi
    ng
    herhai
    r**
    *
    Moer
    a:i
    m bor
    edwi
    thal
    lthi
    sMoss
    ***
    hestoppedbut
    toni
    nghisshi
    rtandl
    ookedat
    herwi
    thaf r
    ownonhisface*
    **
    Moss:
    whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    Moer a:im bor edwi ththi
    ssameol dthingswe
    keepdoi ngMoss…. it
    seit
    herwemeether eat
    yourof f
    icetof uckoratthehoteltheny ou
    transfermoneyt omyaccountaf t
    erwef i
    nishas
    i
    fi m aprostitut ethenyoudisappearforweeks
    somet imesf ormont hsandonedayy oucal l
    me
    thensamesh#tagai n….i
    tsbori
    ng
    *
    **Mosssi
    ghedshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Moss:
    whyar
    eyoubei
    ngl
    i
    ket
    hisnowMo
    Moer
    a:dontgetmewr
    ongMoss….i
    m nott
    ryi
    ng
    t
    obeannoyingtoy
    oui
    mjustt
    ell
    i
    ngy out
    hat
    thi
    s..
    .usisboringmenow….i
    m notf
    eel
    ingit
    anymore…. y
    ouknowIdontdoloveandsh#tso
    i
    fsomet hingisnotexci
    ti
    ngmeanymoreImove
    on
    *
    **Mossswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Moss:wearenotendingthi
    sMo…. deal
    wit
    h
    yourbor
    edom butt
    hisisneverendi
    ng
    *
    **hesai
    dthatandcl
    enchedhi
    sjawsandshe
    r
    oll
    edhereyes*
    **
    Moer
    a:what
    ever
    ….cal
    lmewheny
    ouneedme
    ***shegrabbedherhandbagandwal kedout
    l
    eav i
    ngMossbr eat
    hingheavi
    ly….hedoesn’t
    wantt oadmi ti
    tbuthehasfall
    enf orherandthe
    factthatshe’snotfeel
    i
    ngtheirli
    ttl
    e
    arrangementany moreisnotsit
    ti
    ngwel lwit
    h
    him…. hetookhisphoneandmadeacal l*
    **
    Guy
    :boss
    Moss:
    tai
    lherandgetr
    idofanyf
    ool
    thateat
    s
    wher
    eim eat
    ing
    Guy
    :goti
    t
    ***
    hedroppedt
    hecal
    landsi
    ghedthenhi
    sot
    her
    phoner
    angandhegroanedf
    rust
    rat
    ed,he
    si
    ghedandanswer
    edit*
    **
    Moss:
    myl
    ove
    Woman:
    babehey
    ….whatt
    imewi
    l
    lyoul
    and
    **
    * hecl
    enchedhi
    sjawst
    hensi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    s
    eyes***
    Moss:
    aroundt
    hreet
    omor
    row
    Woman:
    oki
    vegotasur
    pri
    sef
    ory
    out
    omor
    row
    Moss:
    Icantwai
    tmyl
    ove
    woman:okl
    etmel
    oveandl
    eav
    eyou….
    seey
    ou
    t
    omorrowok
    Moss:
    okmyl
    ove….Il
    ovey
    ou
    Woman:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oobaby
    Moss:
    kissmypr
    incessf
    orme
    Woman:
    Iwi
    l
    lbaby
    ..
    .by
    e
    *
    **hedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landsi
    ghed*
    **
    Moss:damnit
    ….whywouldshesayour
    ar
    rangementi
    sbori
    nghernow….i
    sshecheat
    ing
    onme…..i
    swearim gonnaki
    l
    lsomeone
    ***hewenttohi
    sbankingappandsendher
    R20000thenhesendheramessaget hathe
    wantstoseeherbef
    oreheleav
    estomor r
    ow
    andshejustr
    epli
    edby“sho”
    ***
    Moss:
    nxa

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    Masai:
    yhomamai
    stoomuchsomet
    imes
    bat
    hong
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsl
    aughed*
    **
    Moer
    a:dontl
    etherheary
    ousayt
    hatabouther
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    maraleyena….
    toembar
    rasst
    hemi
    nist
    er’
    s
    wi
    fel
    iket
    hat
    Moera:
    youknowmamadoesntt
    akeshi
    tfr
    om
    any
    one
    Masai:
    yhoaishem Mr
    smi
    nist
    erwi
    l
    lnev
    er
    r
    ecovershem
    Hil
    ls:aimamal eyena….
    iwonderwhyshe
    makesi therbusi
    nesstoknowpeopl
    es
    businessli
    kethis
    Moera:shetookbeingapol
    iti
    cian’swif
    etoo
    ser
    iousl
    y….evenaf
    terpapa’
    sdeat hshe’
    ssti
    ll
    at
    i
    t
    *
    **shesai
    dshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Masai
    :ai
    butsheshouldbecaref
    ulcauseshe’
    s
    maki
    ngenemiesunnecessar
    y
    Moera:she’
    sgangstert
    hatone.
    ..
    anunder
    dog
    sodontworryabouther
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsl
    ookedatMoer
    a**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:youweremoodywheny
    ouar
    ri
    ved
    di
    ntshang(
    whatsup)
    Moer
    a:mxm oho….
    ihadt
    hattal
    kwithMossand
    hewasl
    ikenywenywewearenotendi
    ngthi
    s
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Masai
    :mar
    aMoy oust
    art
    edy
    ouraf
    fai
    rknowi
    ng
    t
    hathe’
    smarr
    ied
    Moera:
    anditwasfununt
    ili
    tlast
    ed….
    ij
    ust….
    MaybeIsuddenl
    yhavegr
    ownaconsciouswho
    knows
    *
    **Masai
    andHi
    l
    lsl
    aughed*
    **
    Moer
    a:what
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wena?
    ?(y
    ou)
    Moer
    a:y
    esme
    Masai
    :si
    ncewhen
    Moera:si
    nceIpi
    ctur
    edHil
    l
    sbeinghurtbya
    bi
    tchli
    kemebusychowingherhusband….
    i
    knowI’l
    lhuntdownanybi t
    cht hatwil
    lhurtyou
    bychowingyourmanev ent houghIdontlike
    himthatmuchbutt henitwill
    behy pocr
    it
    icalof
    metodot hatifi
    m busydoingt hesamesh#tt o
    anot
    herwoman…. doublestandswabona
    *
    ***
    sil
    ence*
    ***
    Masai
    :Icantbel
    i
    evemyt
    winhasaconsci
    ous
    Moer
    a:F#t
    s#k!
    !!
    *
    **l
    aught
    er*
    **
    Moer a:plushe’sbori
    ngsexuall
    y….Iloveaman
    whot alksshitduri
    ngmdav azo(sex)..
    .it
    hought
    he’
    llchangewi thti
    mebutIguessIwas
    wrong...y
    enahecanmakemecum shem but
    mdav azowi t
    hhi mitsbor
    ing….i
    want
    exci
    tement ….some50shadesny ananotjust
    tl
    oftlofthenahhh….hedoesntev ensaysh#t
    whenher el
    easesmxm
    *
    **t
    hegi
    rl
    sbust
    edoutwi
    thl
    oudl
    aught
    er*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youneedJesusi
    nyourl
    i
    feshem
    Moer
    a:Ihav
    ehim boo,whatIneedi
    s50shades
    mdav
    azo(sex)t
    hat’si
    t
    Masai
    :Igi
    veupshem
    **
    *Masai
    ’
    sphoner ecei
    vedamessageandshe
    smil
    edaf
    teropeni
    ngitandshegotup*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    andnou(now)
    Masai
    :booi
    sher
    e….
    i’
    l
    lseey
    oul
    ater
    ..
    .ornot
    Moer
    a:mxm
    Masai
    :dontbeahat
    er
    ***Shewenttochangeandsheki
    ssedher
    son’sf
    oreheadthenshewentt
    otheloungeand
    ki
    ssedhersist
    erscheeks*
    **
    Masai
    :by
    e
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youl
    ookhot
    Masai
    :If
    eel
    hott
    ool
    ala
    *
    **shesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngout
    ***
    Moer
    a:Idontl
    i
    ket
    hatpi
    eceofsh#t
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    dontMo….
    shel
    oveshi
    m
    Moer
    a:mxm
    **
    *Hil
    ls’
    phonerangandshesi
    ghedbef
    ore
    pi
    cki
    ngitup*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hel
    l
    oma
    *
    **Moer
    afr
    owned*
    **
    Ma:
    giv
    emysont
    hephoneIwantt
    otal
    ktohi
    m
    Hi
    ll
    s:ummm im notathomeMai
    m atmy
    si
    ster
    ’spl
    ace
    Ma: that
    sally
    ouknowwhatt
    odotogall
    iv
    ant
    aroundbutgivemysonachi
    l
    dyoufai
    lnxa
    uselessthi
    ng
    **
    * Hi
    l
    lsswal
    l
    owedhar
    dast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledher
    eyes*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:youshoul
    dtr
    yhi
    m onhi
    sphonemamaor
    maybehe’
    sinameeti
    ngandcantanswerhi
    s
    phone
    Ma:nywenywenywe…..r
    ubbi
    sh….
    im noty
    our
    pr
    osti
    tut
    edeadmotherwho’
    sbei
    ngrapedby
    maggotsint
    hegr
    avenxa
    ***
    thenshedroppedthecal
    landHi
    l
    lst
    ear
    sran
    downhercheeks***
    Moer
    a:whatdi
    dthatbi
    tchsayt
    hist
    ime
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lswi
    pedhert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    leti
    tbeMoer
    a
    *
    **shegotup*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ishoul
    dgohome….
    i’
    l
    lcal
    lyoul
    ater
    *
    **shekissedhercheekandwal
    kedoutl
    eav
    ing
    Moerareeli
    ngwithanger
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    Cast
    iel
    :thi
    sisj
    ust
    ….y
    ahneh
    Mpumi:Icantbel
    i
    evehe’
    sgrowi
    ngt
    his
    f
    ast….
    Rhuusaidit
    snormalr
    ight
    Casti
    el:
    yeahbutmyquesti
    onis….ishegonna
    benormal.
    ..
    imeanhewasbornmont hsback
    butnowhelooksli
    keasi
    xyearold….Kaluissti
    l
    l
    ababyandhe’sol
    dert
    hanhim andy enahe’s
    j
    ust….Andpluswhenwi
    ll
    hestopagi ng….i
    mean….
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpumi :what
    simpor t
    anti
    she’sali
    ve
    babe…. he’
    sami racl
    e…..
    ukut
    hihe’sgr
    owi ng
    fastblahblahblahisnoti
    mportant….
    ima
    mot herbecauseofhim..
    .wearehisparents
    Cass
    Cast
    iel
    :Iknowbaby
    ..
    .iknowandhe’
    sourpr
    ide
    andj
    oy
    *
    **hesai
    dki
    ssi
    ngherf
    orehead*
    **
    Mpumi :
    Icantbel
    i
    evewemadesucha
    handsomeboy
    Casti
    el:
    hel
    ooksl
    i
    kemeofcour
    sehe’
    s
    handsome
    *
    **Mpumi
    laughedpushi
    nghi
    mli
    ght
    ly*
    **
    Juni
    or:
    dadl
    ook
    ***
    Mpumi l
    ookedatherson….shesti
    l
    lcantget
    usedtohi
    sv oi
    ce..
    .i
    tsdeepandsometimes
    scaryi
    fhecatchesyouoffguar
    d**
    *
    Cast
    iel
    :yeah
    Juni
    or:
    thi
    swomani
    scr
    yingandl
    ookher
    e
    *
    **hisparent
    slookedatt
    hepict
    urehedrewand
    i
    twasofawomangi vi
    ngbir
    th….
    theybot
    h
    f
    roze***
    Mpumi:babywhydi
    dyoudr
    awt
    hiski
    ndof
    pi
    ctur
    e
    Juni
    or:
    sheneedsourhel
    pmama….
    lookshe’
    sin
    pai
    nandcry
    ing
    Cast
    iel
    :wh.
    ..
    what
    Juni
    or:t
    heygonnagetherandki
    l
    lher
    ..
    .wehav
    e
    tohel
    pthem
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    andMpumi
    lookedateachot
    her
    ***
    Voice:helpmydaught erCast
    iel
    ..
    .t
    heyare
    coming….y ourbrotherwil
    lhel
    pyouf i
    nd
    them….pleaset akecareofher….pr
    otectherand
    tel
    lherIlov eher
    *
    **avoi
    cespokeandCast
    iel
    rememeber
    edwho
    i
    tbel
    ongedto*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :f#!
    k!!
    !
    Mpumi
    :whati
    sit
    Casti
    el:
    thatwitcht
    hatwashere….
    shej
    ustgav
    e
    bi
    rth….
    thatsheronthatpi
    ctur
    e
    Mpumi
    :what
    ..
    .buthowdi
    dJuni
    orknow….
    what
    t
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon
    Casti
    el:
    Ineedtofi
    ndherchil
    d….Shej
    ustsai
    d
    Madouwi l
    lknowherwhereabout
    s….
    i’
    l
    lbe
    back.
    ..
    ilov
    ey ou
    *
    **hekissedhercheekandalsokissedJuni
    or’
    s
    f
    oreheadandhedi sappear
    ed***

    -
    --
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    --
    --
    -

    Amo’smother
    :Icantbel
    i
    evethatboydi
    dthatt
    o
    you….
    icantbel
    iev
    ehe’spar
    tofacult
    Amogelang.
    ..
    acult
    *
    **Amoj
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Amo’smot her
    :IknowIdidntl
    i
    keyourhusband
    butI’
    l
    lacceptat hugforsoni
    nlaw overadevi
    l
    worshiperanyday….
    yhomehlolo(Icantbel
    i
    eve
    i
    t)
    Amo:I
    ….idi
    dntknow….
    papal
    ovedhi
    m..
    .idi
    dnt
    knowhe’
    spartofacul
    t
    Amo’smother:yourfat
    herli
    kedsleepingwit
    h
    youngboysAmogel ang….youknowt hat….
    why
    wouldyoutrustanyt
    hingthatgottodowi t
    hthat
    manevenaf
    terf
    indi
    ngoutt
    heki
    ndofmanhe
    washeh
    Amo:youwer
    emar
    ri
    edt
    ohi
    m mama….
    he’
    sst
    il
    l
    myfat
    her
    Amo’smot
    her:andIr
    egr
    etmarr
    yinghi
    m….ihat
    e
    hi
    m andIhopeherot
    sinhel
    lwherehebel
    ongs
    Amo: whenyouwer eenjoy
    inghis
    money ….
    wheny ouwerebeingrespectedbythe
    communi t
    yjustbecauseyouweremar r
    iedt
    o
    himyoudidnthatehim andnowt hatyouknow
    youngboyssatisf
    iedhiminst
    eadofy ouy ou
    hatehim
    *
    **al
    oudsl
    apl
    andedonhercheek*
    **
    Amo’smot her
    :thatboydidgoodbyser vi
    ngyou
    wit
    hdivorcepapers….you’r
    easevilasyour
    fat
    her….
    youki l
    ledyourownchildbybeinga
    whore….y
    oushoul d’
    vebeent heonetodieand
    notJabul
    ile….Icantbeli
    eveIgavebir
    thtoyou
    nxa
    ***
    thenshewalkedoutofherwar dshaki
    ng
    wit
    hangerleavi
    ngAmost i
    llhol
    dingherburni
    ng
    cheek….
    herli
    pstrembledasmor et ear
    sgushed
    out….
    shecantbeliev
    ehermot herjustsl
    apped
    herandJabuservedherwi t
    hdivorcepapers
    andthatModiri
    sacrif
    icedheronlydaughterf
    or
    ri
    ches**
    *
    Amo:
    Godwhatdi
    dIev
    erdot
    odeser
    vet
    his
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **

    -
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    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….

    #TODAREI
    STODO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER01
    .
    .
    .

    Mpande:ang’
    kuqondikonkel
    okhu(Idont
    under
    standal
    lofthi
    s)
    *
    **Hesai
    dwi
    thaf
    rownonhi
    sface*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    what
    Mpande:thist
    hingyamaengagement
    part
    y….i
    zi
    ntozabelungu….
    infactumsanganonj
    e
    (thi
    sthi
    ngsofengagementpar t
    ies.
    ..
    it
    sawhit
    e
    peoplet
    hing….
    infactit
    sstupid)
    Al
    pha:wel
    lvasat
    ivaswi
    randza(wel
    lwomen
    l
    oveit
    )
    Mpande:wellmywomanwi l
    lneedtomake
    peacewit
    hthefactt
    hatshewill
    nevergeti
    tor
    amabri
    dalshowerorbabyshower
    Alpha:t
    henyoubet
    tergofi
    ndyour
    sel
    favil
    lage
    gir
    lcauseci
    tyort
    ownshipgi
    rl
    slov
    ethose
    thi
    ngs
    Mpande:wel l
    thegi rlIsawIt hi
    nki
    satownshi p
    gi
    rlev
    ent houghIf eel l
    ikeIknowherf
    rom
    somewher e….ist
    il
    lr ememberhowshei nsul
    ted
    mymot herandcal ledmyt ypeofmusicrubbish
    *
    **Al
    phal
    aughed*
    **
    Alpha:Ir
    emember
    ….y
    eerxi
    vi
    ndzi
    xay
    ena(y
    eer
    herli
    ver)
    *
    **hel
    aughedagai
    n**
    *
    Mpande:she’
    sgonnapayt
    hatone.
    ..
    theday
    she’
    sgonnabemineheehbafoncncnc..
    .uma
    engi
    bonauzot
    hiasheemhl
    onishwa(whenshe
    seesmeshewill
    sayhel
    losi
    r)
    *
    **Al
    phabust
    edoutwi
    thl
    aught
    erashepar
    ked
    t
    hecar*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    wel
    lthat
    ’si
    fyou’
    l
    lev
    erf
    indher
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngout
    ***
    Mpande:
    oohIwi
    l
    l.
    ..
    iwontr
    estunt
    ilIf
    indher
    ***
    hesaidal
    sogett
    ingoutandAl
    phalet
    tej
    ust
    shookhisheadl
    ockingt
    hecarandtheywal
    ked
    i
    nside*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whati
    fshe’
    smar
    ri
    ed
    Mpande:
    div
    orcebaba
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    elaughedshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ial
    readyf
    eel
    sor
    ryf
    orher
    Mpande:
    im nott
    hatbadmf
    o
    Al
    pha:yeahy
    ou’
    renott
    hatbad….
    you’
    ret
    he
    worst
    Mpande:
    mxm
    *
    **hel
    ookedar
    oundatal
    lthecar
    s**
    *
    Mpande:
    Iseeal
    lthehi
    ghst
    atuspeopl
    ear
    e
    her
    e
    Al
    pha:
    aft
    erMaseesus,
    weeatt
    henl
    eav
    e
    Mpande:mmmhi ndl
    ebeizwi
    l
    ebafo.
    ..
    sishaya
    amaInandOut(theearhashear
    d….
    wewi l
    ldo
    aInandOutt
    hing)
    Al
    pha:
    Icantst
    andal
    lthesef
    akepeopl
    enxa
    Mpande:cal
    m downmfo….angi
    funiamadloz
    i
    aphume(Idontwanty
    ourancestorstocome
    out)
    …..
    rememberwearehereforumamcane
    (aunt)
    ***Al
    phal
    ettesighedandt heywalkedi nsidethe
    houseandassoonasAl phal
    ett
    e’sy ounger
    sist
    ersawhi m sherantohim andj umpedon
    him andAlphal
    ettelaughedcatchingher ….af
    ter
    theyhuggedandgr eetedeachothershe
    j
    umpedonMpandeandheswungherar
    ound
    t
    henheputherdown*
    **
    Mpande:
    wazewakhul
    aCl
    air(y
    ouhav
    egr
    own
    Cl
    air
    )
    *
    **Shebl
    ushedl
    ooki
    ngdown*
    **
    Alpha:mmmhandt el
    lallt
    hoseboyst
    hati
    ma
    sangoma(t r
    adit
    ionalheal
    er)andy
    ourot
    her
    brotherhasagun
    Cl
    air
    :huhbhut
    i
    Al
    pha:
    imj
    ustsay
    ing
    Mr
    s.Rei
    neke:
    myboy
    s
    ***Shesaidopeningherarmsf ort
    hem andthey
    quicklyt
    ookofftheirhatsandtheybot
    hhugged
    herandwhent heybr okethehughepinched
    theirear
    s***
    Al
    pha:
    aahma
    ***
    Clai
    rlaughedastheyhel
    dthei
    rachi
    ngear
    s
    andMpandegav eheraster
    nlook**
    *
    Mpande:uhlekaniwenanekhandael
    ikhul
    u
    (whatar
    ey oul aughi
    ngatbi
    ghead)
    *
    **shest
    uckhert
    ongueoutandr
    anawaywhen
    Mpandetookast
    eptowar
    dsher*
    **
    Mpande:
    sif
    elani
    manj
    ema(whatdi
    dwedoma)
    Mom: ist
    hist
    hetimet
    ocomet
    oyourbr
    other
    ’s
    engagementpar
    ty
    Al
    pha:
    butmaIt
    oldy
    ouwewi
    l
    lbel
    ate
    Mom: l
    ateyamasimbanxa….Andwhatarey ou
    weari
    ng…..
    yazinI
    ’m notgonnal
    etyoutwoto
    st
    ressme…. .
    .comeandmeety oursoontobe
    si
    steri
    nlaw
    *
    **shesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngaway
    ***
    Mpande:ngimdalamanginj
    eimaginei
    ndoda
    endal
    akanje(I’
    m old….
    imagineamanasoldas
    me)pinchedonhisearasifhe’ssomesmal
    l
    boy.
    ..
    .t
    hisisnoton
    *
    **hewhi
    ned*
    **
    Mom: youwantanot
    herpi
    nchMpandecause
    thisti
    meIwontletgounti
    lthatbi
    gearofy
    our
    s
    bleeds
    Mpande:haaicha….i
    ndl
    ebeizwil
    ema..
    .i
    zwil
    e
    ngempela(haainotheearhashear
    d….
    ithas
    hear
    dindeed)
    Mom:
    good.
    ..nowcome
    ***Alphalettelaughedathi m andheshowed
    hi
    mt hemi ddl
    ef ingerandt heyf oll
    owedher …
    i
    nsidet heyf oundpeopl est andingi ngroups
    somesi t
    tingdowndr inking….theguy swer e
    wear i
    ngf or mal,somesemi f
    or mal cl
    othi
    ngand
    womenar ewear ingdressesandheel swhil
    e
    somear ewear i
    ngsemi formal clothi
    ngas
    well…..
    sof tmusi cwaspl ayi
    ng…. thewasabar
    areaandwai t
    ersandwai tr
    essesser v
    ingthem
    fi
    ngerf ood…. Mpandesi ghedshaki nghis
    head* **
    Mpande:
    andt
    hen
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngatapl
    ate*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    rel
    ax.
    ..
    let
    seatandl
    eav
    e
    Mpande:yhohaishem umamcanewaze
    wali
    thwal
    aidombolo(Ifeel
    sorr
    yforaunt
    y)…
    eatwhat?
    ??doyouseef oodher
    e…
    Al
    pha:
    bror
    elax
    Mpande:umavet
    aneushadauml
    unguy
    ini
    (is
    whi
    teymarr
    yingawhi
    tewoman)
    Al
    pha:IdontknowandIdontcar
    e….
    let
    seatand
    l
    eave
    Mpande:sodlani(whatar ewegonnaeat )….
    im
    notarabbi
    tandi m defi
    nit
    elynotondiet….
    did
    youseewhattheyar eservi
    ng..
    .ngiy
    indoda
    yomZulumina..
    .angidl
    iudoti….nxa(im aZul
    u
    man..
    .Idonteatrubbish)
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Mpande:
    ithi
    ngi
    yophuzi
    biy
    a(l
    etmegodr
    ink)
    bef
    oreIl
    osemymi nd
    ***hewentt othebarar eaandAl phalette
    fol
    lowedhi m…. peoplegav ehim wei r
    dl ooks
    causehe’ swear ingdiff
    er entkindsofbeadson
    hiswr istsandneck…. he’ swear ingabl ackgol f
    shirt,
    bl ackjeansandar edcapandr ed
    sneaker swhil
    eMpandei swear i
    ngat ail
    or
    madenav ybluebr ent
    woodpant s,aMadi ba
    shirtthathasbr ownandnav ybluest ri
    pswi tha
    goldchai nhangingar oundhi sneckont opof
    theshi rtandnav ybl
    ueCar velas...
    all
    inal lt
    hey
    l
    ookedoutofpl ace…..Alphaf ollowedhi mt ot he
    barar ea* **
    Mpande:
    hei
    ta
    Whit
    eguy
    :hi
    gent
    lemenwhatwoul
    dyoul
    i
    ket
    o
    dr
    ink
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    nguncomf
    ort
    abl
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    hei
    neken
    Whi
    teguy
    :ok
    *
    **heputa330ml
    ont
    opoft
    hecount
    erand
    reachedforagl
    assbutthenhestoppedwhen
    hesawAl phaopeni
    ngthebott
    leusinghi
    s
    teeth*
    **
    Whi
    teguy
    :ok.
    ..
    ummm whatabouty
    ousi
    r
    Mpande:
    whataboutme
    Al
    pha:
    uphuzani
    (whatdoy
    oudr
    ink)
    Mpande:
    ooho….
    giv
    emebl
    ackl
    abel
    lapho….
    AndNgud’
    *
    **t
    heguycl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Mpande:
    blackl
    abel
    ndoda(man)
    Whi
    teguy
    :umm I
    ’
    m sor
    rysi
    rbutwedon’
    thav
    eit
    Mpande:
    mihl
    ola(Icantbel
    i
    evet
    his)
    Al
    pha:
    justgi
    vehi
    m whatI
    ’
    m hav
    ing
    *
    **heknewhewasaboutt
    ocauseascene*
    **
    Mpande:hehbaf
    oamasi
    mb….(hehbr
    owhat
    nons.
    ..
    )
    *
    **hest
    oppedwhenhesawAl
    phal
    ett
    e’smot
    her
    walki
    ngtowardst
    hem withStev
    ensandhis
    f
    ianceandAlphal
    ett
    e’shear
    talmostst
    opped*
    **
    Mpande:
    baf
    o(br
    o)
    Al
    pha:
    nguy
    e(i
    tsher
    )
    Ma:aahibi
    ya(beer
    )bef
    oreeat
    ing
    Al
    pha..
    .Mpande
    **
    *Masail
    ookedatAl
    phal
    ett
    easi
    fshe’
    sseei
    ng
    aghost
    ***
    Mpande:
    ther
    e’snof
    oodher
    ema
    Ma: Icookedforyout
    wo..
    .y
    ourfoodi
    sinthe
    ki
    tchencauseIknowy ouwonteatwhati
    s
    bei
    ngser vedhere
    St
    evens:
    bigbr
    o..
    .howzi
    t
    **
    *Al
    phal
    ett
    e’sey
    esleftMasai
    andhelookedat
    St
    evenswi
    thascaryfr
    ownonhi sf
    ace*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    sho
    St
    evens:
    I’
    dli
    key
    out
    omeetmybeaut
    if
    ul
    baby
    ….myf
    iance….
    Masai
    Rapul
    a
    Al
    pha:weal
    readyknoweachot
    her
    …..
    ri
    ght
    Masai
    *
    **Hesai
    dlooki
    ngatashockedMasai
    ***
    Ma:
    youknoweachot
    her
    Al
    pha:
    mmmhbutt
    hroughsomeone
    *
    **Masai
    swal
    l
    owedhar
    dsodi
    dSt
    evens*
    **
    St
    evens:
    who
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thhi
    shear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    St
    evens:
    babe
    ***
    Sheblinkedfastandtear
    sr andownher
    cheeksasherhandsshookt hensheran
    out….
    hersisterHi
    ll
    ssawherr unni
    ngoutand
    shefol
    lowedherout si
    deandMpandef r
    owned
    l
    ookingatHills**
    *
    Mpande:
    fuck….
    baf
    oist
    hat
    ….
    *
    **heaskedl
    ooki
    ngf
    reakedout
    ….t
    henhe
    f
    rownedandshookhi
    sheadv
    igor
    ousl
    y**
    *
    Ma:Masa….
    .what
    sgoi
    ngon.
    ..
    whyi
    sshe
    r
    unni
    ng
    ***St
    evenslookedatAl phal et
    tewhost i
    llhad
    thatscaryfr
    ownonhi sf aceandhecl ickedhis
    tonguethenhef oll
    owedher …..hegotoutside
    andHi l
    lswasr ev
    ersingoutoft heyardandt he
    cardroveaway ….St
    ev ensclenchedhi sjaws
    l
    ookingangr yandhecl ickedhi stongueand
    wenttohi scaranddr oveof ftoo***

    I
    NSI
    DETHEHOUSE

    Ma:what
    sgoi
    ngonAl
    pha….
    .whatwast
    hatal
    l
    about
    Al
    pha:
    howshoul
    dIknowma
    Ma:
    ungangi
    yenzi
    isli
    ma(dontmakemea
    f
    ool
    )….
    isawyourface
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:ma….idontknowwhysher anoffok
    may beyoushouldasky ourson….yesIknowher
    causeweoncemetatapar ty2yearsbackin
    CapeTownandMpandeher ehookedupwith
    herfri
    endandhewasn’ tnicetothefri
    end
    may bethat
    ’swhyshereact edthatway
    Ma:
    whyt
    oyouandnothi
    m heh
    Al
    pha:
    ma.
    ..
    eish
    **
    *hesaidrubbi
    nghisf
    oreheadt
    ryi
    ngt
    othi
    nk
    ofabel
    ievabl
    eli
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    we.
    ..
    eish
    Al
    pha:
    wehadat hr
    eesomewit
    hherf
    ri
    endandI
    wasmorer
    oughertohert
    hanhi
    m
    Ma:what
    sat hr
    ee….yuhmi
    hlol
    a..
    .i
    m donewi
    th
    yout
    wo….done….done
    *
    **shesai
    dsoundi
    ngandl
    ooki
    ngdr
    amat
    ic*
    **
    Mpande:
    Ineedasmokeandubi
    ya(abeer
    )
    *
    **hesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngaway
    ***
    Ma:ni
    sher
    aabafazi
    Alphal
    ett
    eNtsako
    Mabunda(youshar
    ewomenAl phal
    ett
    eNt
    sako
    Mabunda)
    Al
    pha:
    ma
    Ma: ungathinny
    wa….nowIseewhyy outwoare
    notmar r
    ied….ni
    sher
    aikhekhe(y
    ousharea
    pussy)….yhongazengahl
    olel
    wa(Icantbel
    iev
    e
    thi
    s)
    ***shewalkedawaymumbl i
    ngtohersel
    fand
    Alphalet
    tesighedandfol
    l
    owedMpande…. he
    foundhim smokingli
    keachimney**
    *
    Mpande:
    IknewI
    ’
    veseent
    hatgi
    rlsomewher
    e
    Al
    pha:
    who.
    ..
    Mpande:mywi fetobe….
    .umfazi
    wami
    bafo….
    youdidntpaymuchattent
    iontot
    hem
    causeyouconcentrat
    edonyourgir
    l
    *
    **Mpandet
    ookal
    argegul
    p**
    *
    Mpande: t
    heywer ethreebafo….
    youleftwit
    h
    yourgir
    landIwasl eftwithtwoandIhada
    thr
    eesum wi tht
    hem…. thatoneyourgir
    llef
    t
    withist
    hesisterthatwasengaged...
    shewas
    getti
    ngmar r
    iedthefoll
    owingweekend
    *
    **Al
    phagav
    ehi
    m ashockedl
    ook*
    **
    Mpande: fuckbaf o….ngimoshilestrai
    ght(I
    messedup) ….icantbel i
    ev eihadat hreesome
    wit
    ht hem andnowi mi nterestedinoneoft he
    si
    sters….Yazi iknewI ’veseent hatgir
    l
    somewher e….ididntseeherpr operl
    ythatti
    me
    sheinsultedmebutIknewIknowherf rom
    somewher e,Idontt hinkshe’ll
    givemeachance
    baf
    o…. damni t
    !!!
    Al
    pha:
    ooohshi
    t!
    !!
    **
    *heexcl
    aimedtaki
    ngthebeerf
    rom hi
    m and
    hetookal
    argegulp*
    **
    Alpha:andmychosenoneisengagedt
    omy
    youngerbrot
    herandIhav
    eachildoutt
    her
    eI
    needt
    ofi
    nd….
    *
    **hesai
    drubbi
    nghi
    sfor
    eheadanxi
    ousl
    y**
    *
    Mpande:
    yho
    **
    *hewal
    kedt
    othebarar
    eaandAl
    phaf
    oll
    owed
    hi
    m***
    Mpande:eigi
    vemesomet hi
    ngstrong
    l
    apho….i
    chefungi
    feonce(poisonsothatIdi
    e)
    Al
    pha:
    makei
    ttwo
    ***Hismi ndwentt oMasai ….shelooked
    beaut i
    ful
    ….grown….she’sabi tchubbycause
    thatt i
    meshewassl ender….evenherbr east
    s
    aref ul
    lthatti
    met heylookedl i
    ketennisball
    s
    butnow…. .
    .heshookhishead…. ”nahi tcantbe”
    het hought….butthen…..“nah...
    ”hethought
    againshaki nghishead* *
    *

    ONTHEROAD
    Hil
    ls:
    mntasewhathappened….
    didsomet
    hing
    happen
    ***
    Masaicontinuedtocryignori
    ngher
    ….whydi
    d
    hehavetobeSt evensbrother
    ….whydoesnt
    happi
    nesslastinherli
    fe**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:bat
    hongMasawhat
    sgoi
    ngon….
    youknow
    whati
    m cal
    li
    ngMoer
    a
    *
    **shecal
    l
    edMoer
    aMasai
    ’
    stwi
    nsi
    ster
    ***
    Moera:ef
    edi
    lepar
    tyy
    amakgowa(i
    sthewhi
    te
    peopl
    espart
    yover
    )
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wher
    ear
    eyou
    Moer
    a:home
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    okwear
    eonourway
    Moer
    a:what
    sgoi
    ngHi
    l
    lsi
    sMasaok
    Hil
    ls:
    no...
    somethi
    nghappenedandIdontknow
    what….sheranoutoft
    hepartyandshe’
    scryi
    ng
    butshedoesntsaywhatswrong
    Moera:
    okummm hurryI
    ’m wai
    ti
    ng….
    thatr
    ott
    en
    guav
    ahadbet
    ternothur
    therorel
    se.
    ..
    hehheh
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    okshap
    ***af
    tersometimetheyarr
    ivedandgotoutof
    thecarandwentupt othei
    rapartmentandas
    soonast heygotinMasairantoherbedroom
    andshebust edoutwit
    hacr yassheslowlysat
    onherbed, MoeraandHill
    swalkedin***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Masat
    alkt
    ouswhathappened
    ***
    MoerahuggedherandHi
    l
    lsjoi
    nedthem unti
    l
    shecal
    meddown….Moerawipedhert
    ears*
    * *
    Moer
    a:whohur
    tyou.
    ..
    isi
    tSt
    evens
    *
    **sheshookherheadasmor
    etear
    smade
    t
    heirwayout
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    thenwho
    Masai
    :St
    evensbr
    otheri
    sKhai
    ’
    sfat
    her
    Hi
    l
    ls&Moer
    a:WHAT!
    !!
    Masai
    :hel
    ooksl
    i
    kehi
    m….
    hisphot
    ocopyHi
    l
    ls…
    Hi
    ll
    s:Idi
    dntseehimr ememberyourmotherin
    l
    awtooky ouandSt evenst
    ogointr
    oduceyou
    t
    ohiselderbr
    otherandIremai
    nedwi t
    hStevens
    f
    ri
    ends
    Moer
    a:whatdi
    dhesay
    Masai:
    nothingmuchj
    ustt
    hatweal
    readyknew
    eachother
    *
    **Shesai
    dwi
    pinghert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Masai :
    Stevensisgonnaleav
    emeMo…. ihavea
    chil
    dwi t
    honebr ot
    herandim engagedto
    anotherbrother
    ….whycanthappi
    nesslastinmy
    l
    ife….why
    Shesai
    dcry
    ingandthesi
    stershuggedherwi
    th
    Hil
    l
    scryi
    ngtooandMoerajustswall
    owed
    har
    d***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    ***
    Stevensknockedonthedoorandi
    twas
    openedandtherestoodhi
    sbabymama
    Helga*
    **
    Hel
    ga:
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    St
    evens:
    you
    *
    **shel
    aughedmocki
    ngl
    y**
    *
    Stev
    ens:areyougonnal
    etmeinorshoul
    dIgo
    andfindanot
    herpussyt
    osat
    isf
    yme
    *
    **sher
    aisedherey
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Helga:
    where’
    syournewfi
    ance.
    ..
    herpussyi
    s
    notsweetany
    moreSteve
    St
    evens:
    arey
    ougonnal
    etmei
    nornotHel
    ga
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thanannoy
    edv
    oice*
    **
    Hel
    ga:
    mxm
    *
    **shesai
    dmaki
    ngwayf
    orhi
    m andhewal
    ked
    i
    n***
    St
    evens:
    wher
    e’smyson
    Hel
    ga:
    atmymoms
    ***
    henoddedt
    henhesighedandwentt
    osi
    t
    downandhebrushedhi
    sface*
    **
    Hel
    ga:
    whathappened
    *
    **sheaskedwi
    thabor
    edt
    one*
    **
    Stevens:
    Ithi
    nk….
    ithi
    nkMasaiandthat
    shangaanbrot
    herofmineoncehadathing
    going
    Hel
    ga:
    wai
    twhatnow
    *
    **shesai
    dsoundi
    ngi
    nter
    est
    ednow*
    **
    Stevens:whati
    f….
    imeanshedoesntwantt
    o
    tal
    kaboutherbabydaddysay
    inghe’
    sdeadto
    her….whati
    fhe’
    s…..
    fuck!
    !!
    **
    *hesaidr
    ubbinghi
    sfaceandHel ga
    swall
    owedhar
    d….”no”shethoughtasshe
    bl
    inkedr
    api
    dly
    ***
    Hel
    ga:
    whatdoy
    oumeanSt
    evens
    *
    **sheaskedwi
    thherhear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    St
    evens:
    Ineedt
    orel
    ease
    **
    *hesai
    dunbucklinghi
    sbeltandunbut
    toni
    ng
    hi
    spantsandhepul l
    edouthi
    saveragedi
    ck
    st
    roki
    ngitgent
    ly*
    **
    Stevens:
    makemehappybabyandI
    ’
    llmakey
    ou
    happytoo
    Hel
    ga:
    im noty
    ourf
    ianceSt
    evens
    Stev
    ens:y
    ouknowwhatf
    uckt
    hisshi
    tI’
    m not
    aboutt
    obegyounxa
    **
    *hesaidget
    tingupandhefixedhi
    msel
    fthen
    Helgagotupandstoppedhi
    m* **
    Hel
    ga:uyat
    handaukucengwaheh(y
    oul
    i
    ke
    bei
    ngbegged)
    St
    evens:
    arey
    ougonnagi
    vemepussyorwhat
    Hel
    ga:
    IneedR10000f
    ormygi
    rl
    sst
    ri
    p
    St
    evens:
    you’
    resel
    l
    ingnow?
    Helga:
    youchosetomarryherinst
    eadofmeso
    mypussyisnolongerf
    reeforyoumi st
    er..
    .i
    f
    youwantfr
    eepussygotoy ourbori
    ngfiance
    *
    **hesi
    ghedl
    ooki
    ngather
    ***
    St
    evens:
    fine….
    nowgetnaked
    **
    *shesmil
    edandgr
    abbedhi
    sdi
    ckgent
    lyand
    hegasped*
    **
    Helga:i
    m gonnamakey
    ouscr
    eam myname
    outloud….
    .
    *
    **St
    evenssmi
    rkedget
    ti
    ngexci
    ted*
    **
    St
    evens:
    makemehappybaby
    Hel
    ga:
    thenmakey
    our
    sel
    fcomf
    ort
    abl
    edaddy
    Hewentandsatdowncomf or
    tablyandshe
    st
    art
    edstr
    ippi
    ngforhi
    m seducti
    vely
    ***
    St
    evens:
    fucky
    ou’
    regor
    geousmamakhe
    *
    **hesai
    dashi
    sdi
    ckgothar
    derandhar
    deras
    hewat
    chedher
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATHI
    LLSHOUSE

    ***shegotinandf oundherhusbandont he
    phone, theconversati
    onhewashav ingwi t
    hthe
    personseemedt ensecausehekeptbr ushing
    hisrighteyebrowt i
    meandt imeagainandhe
    doest hatwhenhe’ sst r
    essedorangr y
    ….he
    turnedandsawherst andi
    ngneart hedining
    tableandhegav eheraf aintsmi
    leandhe
    droppedt hecallthenhewal kedtoher *
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hey
    ***hegottoherandhepull
    edhercloserbyher
    thickwaistandsmashedhi
    sli
    psonher sand
    kissedthelivi
    ngdayl
    i
    ghtoutofherleavi
    ngher
    br
    eat
    hless*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:wowl
    ooksl
    i
    kesomeonemi
    ssedmet
    oo
    much
    Tar
    ek:
    mor
    ethany
    ou’
    l
    lev
    erknow
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yougood
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    pingof
    fherl
    i
    pst
    ickonhi
    sli
    ps*
    **
    Tar
    :mmmh
    *
    **Hi
    svoi
    cev
    ibr
    atedonhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    sur
    e??
    ***
    * shesai
    dwit
    harai
    sedey
    ebr
    owandhe
    perkedherli
    ps*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    yah….
    il
    ovey
    oubambol
    wam.
    ..
    il
    ovey
    ou
    somuch
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oost
    handwasam
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tarek:j
    ustknowt
    hatev
    ery
    thi
    ngIdoIdoi
    tfor
    us….ial
    wayswantyout
    obehappy
    Shal
    ate….
    yourhappi
    nessmeanst
    heworl
    dto
    meandI ’
    l
    ldoeveryt
    hingt
    omakesur
    eyouare
    al
    wayshappy…
    *
    **hesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    babe
    *
    **heper
    kedherl
    i
    psagai
    n**
    *
    Tarek:i
    m notperfectandI
    ’l
    lnev
    erbebutone
    thi
    ngIknowi sIloveyoutodeathShalate….
    i
    dontthi
    nkIwillbeabletol
    ivewithoutyou
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    babywhat
    swr
    ong
    Tar
    ek:
    ngi
    yakt
    handamama
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oo
    Tar
    ek:nev
    ergi
    veuponme.
    ..
    onuspl
    ease
    bambolwam
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    promi
    seme
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ipr
    omi
    se
    *
    **heki
    ssedherf
    orehead*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    howwast
    hepar
    ty
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhommmh
    ***
    shesaiddr
    amat
    ical
    lyandTar
    eklaughed
    causeheknewmgozi(gossi
    p)i
    saboutto
    happen*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    itwasact
    ual
    l
    yanengagementpar
    ty
    *
    **her
    aisedhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    heban
    ***
    hesai
    dfol
    l
    owi
    nghert
    othel
    ounget
    osi
    t
    down*
    **
    Hil
    ls:mmhshem theri
    ngi stodi
    efornolieand
    thefoodwasfivest
    arrestaur
    antst
    yle.
    ..
    you
    knowt hosef
    ancyfi
    ngerfood
    Tar
    ek:
    mmmh
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    butt
    hepar
    tywasbor
    ingbabel
    i
    key
    ho
    whi
    tepeopl
    est
    uff
    ***Tar eklaughedl ooki ngather
    admi ringly….Hil
    lsisat hickwomanandi m not
    takingaboutt hoset hickwomanwi tht i
    nywaist
    nono. .
    .she’soneoft hosewoment hatwer e
    bor nthickandev eni ftheyt rytolosewei ghti
    t
    wonthappenandt heydon’ tneedt olosei t
    causet hei
    rt hi
    cknessl ooksgoodont hem wit
    h
    theirthickwai st,thickt highs, chubbycheeks
    actual l
    ythickev ery t
    hi ng...she’snotdar k
    skinnedandshe’ snotl ightski nnedei thershe’
    s
    i
    nt hemi ddle….andwhenshesmi lesshe
    brightensupt heroom becauseofherdeep
    dimpl esandshedr i
    v esTar ekcr azy...
    he’smadly
    i
    nl ovewi t
    hherbutt her e’sonl yonet hing
    missi ngi ntheirli
    v es…. achi ld….ont heir
    weddi ngdayshet ookabul letforhi m…. she
    surv i
    vedbutherwombdi dn’t..
    .shenowhav e
    compl i
    cations,shecantcar ryachi l
    df ull
    term…. sof arshe’shadf i
    v emi scar r
    iages….
    Shepr etendst obet hishappyandj oyfulperson
    butTar ekcanseer ightthroughher ….heknows
    she’sdy ingi nsideandi tkil
    lshi mt oknowt hat
    theonet hingt heybot hwantt heycant
    have….y est hear eot herway st ohav eachi ldof
    thei
    rownbutTar ekal sohashi sown
    wishes…. togot hroughpr egnancywi ththe
    womanwho’ sgonnacar ryhisseed, feeli
    ngt he
    babyki ck, doct orsappoi ntmentandhav i
    ngt he
    bestsexwi t
    hapr egnantwomanhasal way s
    beenhi sf ant asyandal sobei ngav ail
    abl einthe
    deli
    v er
    yr oom t owi tnesshischi l
    d’sbirthishis
    dream…. t
    obet heonet ocutt heumbi li
    cal
    cord…..heknowshecantexper iencet hatwi t
    ha
    surrogate* **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    babear
    eyoul
    i
    steni
    ng
    Tar
    ek:
    ye.
    ..
    yeah
    Hi
    ll
    s:soyeahMasaif
    oundoutthatSt
    evens
    el
    derbr
    otheri
    sherbabydaddy
    ….themyster
    y
    man
    Tar
    ek:what
    ….i
    thi
    uyadl
    ala!
    !!(whatsayy
    ou’
    re
    ki
    ddi
    ng)
    *
    **hesai
    dshocked*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    str
    uubaby
    *
    **t
    henshesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hill
    s:i
    m worri
    edabouther..
    .y
    ouknowher
    conditi
    onandIdon’twantherstressingbaby
    ….i
    j
    usthopet heymakeitwit
    hSt evensand
    Alphalet
    tedoesn’
    tcausethem problemswhen
    hefindsoutaboutAJ
    Tar
    ek:
    damn
    Hi
    ll
    s:l
    etmegoshowerwhi
    l
    eyouor
    dermy
    f
    avori
    te
    ***sheper
    kedhisli
    psandgotupandTar ek
    spankedherthi
    cka$$thenhesqueezedit
    getti
    ngabonerinst
    antl
    y….
    she’st
    hef i
    rstt
    hick
    womanhe’ sdat
    ed….hehasalwayshadat hing
    forhourgl
    assfi
    gurewomenbutHi l
    ls….Hi
    ll
    s’
    chubbi
    nessdri
    veshi
    m crazyi
    ncl
    udi
    ngt
    hathot
    stov
    ebet weenherl
    egs*
    * *
    Tar
    ek:
    letmej
    oiny
    oubambol
    am
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsst
    oppedwal
    ki
    ngandshel
    aughed*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:mar
    ababyyousmel
    lfr
    eshl
    i
    key
    ouj
    ust
    t
    ookshowermos
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:thatheatoutsi
    deint
    hepat
    iomademe
    sweatagainsthandwasam
    **
    *Hill
    slaughedandcont
    inuedt
    owal
    kwi
    th
    Tarekbehindher
    ***
    Hil
    l
    s:whatheat.
    ..
    stopl
    yi
    ngMv el
    ase.
    ..
    justsay
    youwantsomeofthist
    hicka$$
    *
    **shesai
    dgr
    abbi
    ngi
    tandhecur
    sed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    f#!
    k!!
    !
    *
    **shelaughedandpi
    ckedupherpaceandhe
    l
    aughed***
    Tar
    ek:
    youknowy
    oucantoutr
    unmebambo
    l
    am
    ***hi
    sphoner angasshegoti nt heirbedroom
    andhel ookedatthecal l
    eri
    dandcl enchedhis
    j
    awst henhedr oppedit….hesighedandwal ked
    i
    nt henansmsr eport
    edonhi sphoneandhe
    openedi t
    ….hereaditandswal l
    owedhar dashis
    heartst
    ar t
    edbeatingfast….
    hishandsshook
    thenhef ol
    dedfiststr
    yingtostopt hem….He
    wentoutoft hebedroom astheshowerr anand
    hewentt opourhi mselfahotdrinkandgul ped
    i
    tatonegot henhecalmeddownt henhet yped
    ansms* **
    Tarek:
    “youdon’
    thav
    etodot
    hatI
    ’
    llt
    ell
    her
    toni
    ght”
    **
    *hesendi
    tanddel
    etedi
    tfr
    om hi
    sphoneand
    wentt
    ojoi
    nhiswi
    fewithaheav
    yhear
    t**
    *
    .
    .
    .

    TOBECONTI
    NUED….
    .

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO

    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER2
    .
    .
    .

    WEEKSLATER
    MASAINAI
    MARAPULA

    ***I’
    m si t
    tingint hebalconyatourapar tment
    try
    ingt omakesenseofwhathappenedweeks
    back...
    .ifoundoutt hatmyf i
    ancé’sbr otheris
    actuall
    ysomeguywhom Ioncesl eptwi t
    hand
    afterhewasdonewi thmeheki ckedmeoutof
    hishotel room likeI’m someusel ess
    prostit
    ute....
    Theguyt r
    eat edmel i
    kegar bage
    andt hewor stpartishel efthisseedi nsideof
    meandIdi dn’tevenknow. ..
    ..
    yesweuseda
    condom butf ewweeksl aterIfoundoutIwas
    pregnantandhewast heonl yguyIsl eptwi t
    h
    andbef orehi m Iwassi nglefor5mont hs....
    May bet hecondom br okeandhedi dn’ttel
    l me
    orher emov editIdon’tknow, whatIknowi s
    he’sthef atherunl essIalsogoti mpregnat edby
    theHol ySpi ri
    t.
    ..
    ..(sigh)
    ThewayIwasdev ast atedaf t
    erhet reat edme
    l
    iket rashIdi dn’tev ent hi nkofdr inkingmor ni
    ng
    afterpill
    sev ent houghweusedpr otect ion
    becauset hoset hingsar en’t100per cent
    saf e.
    ...
    I’
    m her el ooki ngdownatmysonKhai
    anddamnhel ooksl ikehi sf ather..
    ..
    i nev er
    thoughtI ’l
    lev erseehi m agai n..
    ..
    ionlyknewhi s
    nameAl phal ette, Ididn’ tknowev enwher ehe’
    s
    from andwhi cht ribehe’ sf r
    om. ..
    hell Ididn’t
    ev enknowi fhe’ sSout hAf r
    icanornotcausewe
    onl yspokeEngl ishev ent houghi twasbr ief
    bef orehef #ck! dmybr ainsout ,t
    hepi eceofsh! t
    didn’tev enhav eanaccent .
    ..
    .I’
    m sur ei fStevens
    pai dmor eat tent i
    oni nt ryingt obuildsomesor t
    ofr el
    ationshi porev enmadeanef forti n
    spendi ngsomet imewi t hKhai ,hewoul dhav e
    seenhi sol derbr otheri nhi m...
    .

    St
    evenneh.
    ..
    .ei
    shwemet5mont
    hagoand
    niggadeci dedt opr oposeweeksbackt hesame
    dayhei ntroducedmet ohi swhol efami ly
    offi
    ciall
    y.
    ...
    IswearIwant edt odi ethereand
    thenwhenIsawhi m. .
    ..iwi shedt hegr ound
    couldopenandIwoul dgl adlyjumpi nandhi de.
    ..
    (sigh)…..
    Anot herthi nghe’ saf r
    #ak! nsangoma
    l
    ikeaGobel a.
    ..athokozaMkhul u. .
    .y
    esIsawt he
    beadsbutIdi dn’tt hinkhe’ saSangomacause
    event hosewhohav en’ tbeeni nitiat
    edwear
    them, Imeansomeweart hem f orpr otecti
    on
    andIcan’ tdi f
    ferent iat
    ebet weenasangoma
    andani nitiateandar andom per sonwhowear s
    beadsf orpr otection. .
    ..andf orasf arasIknow
    Sangomasar enotsupposedt ol ookl i
    ket hat,I
    meanhot .
    ...ididn’tsmel lMpephoort r
    aditional
    herbsonhi m. .
    ...
    nikkasmel ledlikemi ll
    ion
    doll
    ars...
    (si gh)..
    ..
    .

    Anot
    hert
    hingt
    hatconf
    usesmei she’
    sa
    fr
    #ak!
    nSangomabuthedidn’
    tknowthathehas
    achildoutt here.
    ...
    doesn’ttraditi
    onalhealer
    s
    havesuperpower stoseet hef utureor
    somet hing..
    .(si
    gh) .
    ..
    .t
    hent here’sStevenshow
    doItellhimt hathisbr ot
    heri smyson’ sfather
    wellthat’sifhedidn’tputtwoandt wotogether
    whenIr anof fafterIsawbabydaddy ..
    ..
    idon’t
    thi
    nkhewoul dwantt omar ryme
    anymor e...
    .i
    maginehav i
    ngachi l
    dwi t
    hone
    brot
    herandget ti
    ngmar ri
    edt o
    another...
    (sigh).
    ..
    .yhoMasai wat lawae
    baka(y oujustdidt heunthinkable).…

    ThedooropenedandIt urnedt olookand


    Moer amyt winsi sterwalkedi nholding
    shoppi ngbags. ..
    sheput st hem downand
    wal kedtous. .
    ..shebendandki ssedKhai’s
    forehead...
    .goshshel oveshi m andspoilshim
    rottensodoeshi sgrandmot her(ourcrazy
    mom)andHi ll
    sourot hersi sternotbyblood
    though. .
    ..
    Khai callsmemommyandMoer a
    mamaandhecal l
    sHill
    sMamkhulu.
    ..
    he’
    sa
    smartandcl
    everchi
    ldandIl
    ovehimtobi
    ts,
    I
    can’
    timagi
    nemyl i
    fewit
    houthi
    m***
    Moer
    a:hasi
    tbeenl
    ongsi
    ncear
    obet
    se(he
    sl
    ept
    )
    *
    **Ij
    ustshookmyhead*
    **
    Moer
    a:kengot
    suput
    se(whyar
    eyousul
    ki
    ng)
    Me:
    akat
    supul
    a(i
    m notsul
    ki
    ng)
    Moer
    a:okt
    henwhyt
    hel
    ongf
    ace
    ***
    Irol
    ledmyey
    esather
    ..
    ..
    mxm shecanbea
    bore*
    **
    Me:i
    mjustwor
    ri
    edofhowSt evenwill
    takeoris
    t
    aki
    ngthenewsthatKhai
    ishisbrot
    her’
    schil
    d
    Moera:mxm oho..
    ..
    thatoneleboy el
    l
    owekar e
    guavayagobola(thatyellowonethatlooks
    l
    ikearott
    enguava)wellim sur
    eheal r
    eady
    knows..
    .imeanit
    sbeenweeksandhest i
    l
    l
    haven’
    tcall
    edyou….t
    akey ourl
    ossesMasaand
    mov
    eon
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Me:hejustneedsomet
    imet
    ocal
    m down.
    ..
    i
    l
    ovehim ok
    Moera:mmmmhIal sowoul dlov
    etowear
    nothi
    ngbutexpensi
    vebrandsonlybutIcan’
    t
    aff
    ordtobebrokesoIsettl
    eforsomething
    aff
    ordabl
    esodon’tt
    ell
    meaboutt hatyell
    ow
    one….
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    esagai
    n**
    *
    Me:what??.
    ..
    dudewhatdoest
    hatgottodowi
    th
    whatIsai
    dandy ouknowwearepri
    vi
    leged
    ..
    .st
    oplyi
    ngandbeingdramat
    ic
    Moer a:
    Iknowitgotnot
    hingt
    odowit
    hwhat
    yousaidaboutRG butImademypoi
    ntcase
    closed
    **
    * Ij
    ustgaveherthe“
    wtf”l
    ookt
    henIr
    oll
    edmy
    eyes..
    ..
    ri
    ghtthenmyphoneri
    ngsandi
    t’
    s
    Stev
    ens.
    ...
    goshmyheartnear
    lyst
    opped
    beati
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    anywayIanswer
    edwithmyhear
    t
    beati
    ngfast
    ***
    Me:
    babe
    ***
    Moer
    arol
    ledhereyesandt
    ookKhai
    from me
    andwal
    kedi
    nside*
    **
    St
    evens:
    hey
    *
    **i
    hear
    dhi
    m si
    gh*
    **
    Me:
    Itr
    iedcal
    l
    ingy
    ou
    St
    evens:
    Idi
    dn’
    twannat
    alkt
    oyou
    *
    **ouch*
    **
    St
    evens:
    arey
    our
    eadyt
    ocomecl
    ean
    **
    *youknowwhat
    ,letmegett
    hisov
    eranddone
    wit
    h**
    *
    Me:ummm….
    ther
    e’ssomet
    hingy
    ouneedt
    o
    know
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    St
    evens:
    iml
    i
    steni
    ng
    ***
    Isi
    ghed.
    ..
    f#ckt
    hisi
    shar
    d..
    ..
    i’
    m ev
    en
    shaki
    ng*
    **
    Me:ummm y
    ourbr
    other
    ..
    ..
    he’
    s.
    ..
    he’
    sKhai
    ’
    s
    f
    ather
    *
    **si
    l
    ence*
    **
    Stev
    ens:t
    ell
    mey
    ou’
    renotgonnat
    ell
    him he’
    s
    thefat
    her
    *
    **If
    rowned*
    **
    Me:
    aski
    es?
    ??
    St
    evens:
    dontt
    ell
    him.
    ..
    please
    *
    **Ican’
    tbel
    i
    evet
    his*
    **
    Me:whatdoy oumeanIshouldn’tt
    ell
    him
    Stev
    ens.
    ..
    .he’
    sKhaifat
    herforgoodnesssake
    andwhydon’tyousoundsurpri
    sed
    St
    evens:
    I’
    ll
    rai
    sehi
    m asmyown
    *
    **he’
    scr
    azyt
    hisone*
    **
    Me: y
    ounevershowedi nt
    eresti
    nbuildi
    nga
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    pwithhim andgettoknowhi m si
    nce
    wemetandnowj ustbecausehe’
    sy our
    brot
    her’
    ssonyouwannar ai
    sehim asyourown
    Stev
    ens:i
    m nottheonewho’
    swrongher e.
    ..y
    ou
    haveaf#ck#nchil
    dwithmybrot
    her
    ..
    .ishould
    betheonewho’sangry
    !!!
    ***
    hesoundspissedandIswall
    owed..
    .iputthe
    phoneonloudspeakerandputi
    tonmyl apand
    massagedthesidesofmyhead..
    ..
    thest
    r essis
    showingmeflames***
    Stev ens:thi
    ssh!
    tisgonnadi videmy
    fami ly.
    ..
    .howwil
    li
    tl ookyouhav ingachil
    dwith
    him andmemar ryingyou...
    .y
    ou’ r
    egonnabe
    callednamesandsh! t.
    ..
    .l
    ooky oucan’tt
    ellhi
    m
    I’
    llplayaf at
    her
    lyroletowardsy oursonand
    plushe’ sbeendoinggoodwi t
    houtaf at
    herin
    hislife.
    ..
    whydoy ouwannadi srupthi
    sli
    fehuh
    Me:
    youcan’
    thi
    det
    hathe’
    shi
    sSt
    even.
    ..
    .he
    l
    ooksli
    kehi
    m andwhydon’
    tyousound
    sur
    pri
    sed
    St
    even:
    Iputt
    woandt
    wot
    oget
    her
    …..
    Moer
    a:f
    #tsekRG!
    !(pi
    ssof
    fRG)
    ***
    Iquickl
    yturnedandMoeralookedangry.
    ..
    ok
    howl onghasshebeenstandi
    ngthere..
    ..
    she
    snatchedthephonefrom meandturnedthe
    l
    oudspeakerof fandputi
    tonherear….oohLord
    saveme* **
    Moer a:sebetesesekanaoset sey akae...
    .who
    thef 3ckar eyou...
    ..
    bonamooj ouhond,
    Alphal ett
    ey ourbrotherwil
    l knowt hathehasa
    sonwi thMasaandi fyoucantacceptt hatand
    l
    ov eherr egar dl
    essthenfot sekelakwaa. ...
    o
    naganagor ekwenaf el
    aanal engpi pi
    mol efatshelengheh(wher edoy ougett he
    nerve. .
    ..whot hef3ckarey ou….l ookher ey ou
    dogAl phalett
    ey ourbrot
    herwi l
    lknowt hathe
    hasasonwi t
    hMasaandi fy oucantacceptt hat
    andloveherregar
    dlesst
    henf3ckoff
    ..
    ..
    you
    thi
    nkyou’
    retheonlyonewit
    hadi cki
    nthewor
    ld)
    Me:
    Moer
    a!!
    !
    Moera:heydon’
    tst
    artwit
    hmewenanxa. .
    ..
    isee
    onyakonnyelal
    empy aeeyagao(Iseeyou
    wannash!tyour
    sel
    fwitht
    hisdogofyour
    s)….
    whenitcomestoAJdontpissmeoff
    ***
    itl
    ooksl i
    keStevenssai
    dsomethi
    ngt
    oher
    andtheinsult
    sthatcameoutofhermout
    h
    werejusttoomuchf ormyears*
    **
    Moera:f
    ots#kel
    etlhogoyal
    epr
    emat
    ure(f
    3#k
    youwit
    hapr emat
    urehead)
    *
    **shet
    hrewt
    hephoneatme*
    **
    Moera:i
    m di
    sappoint
    edinyoutwinnie..
    ..
    your
    chi
    ldcomesfi
    rstnotpipi
    (adick)
    ...
    thissh!
    t
    you’
    redoi
    ngkedesperati
    onfel
    a..
    ..
    ican’tbel
    iev
    e
    you
    *
    **shegav
    emeanast
    ylookandwal
    kedaway
    andIsighedandt ookmyphoneandt hecall
    wasdr opped(si gh)..
    .she’sr i
    ghtanddeepdown
    IknowIwoul dnev erdepr i
    vemysonachance
    tomeetandknowhi sfatherbutIloveStevens
    andim scaredt hathewi llleaveme....
    ihavebad
    l
    uckwheni tcomest orelationshi
    psand
    every
    thingwasgoi ngwel lbet weenusuntilI
    methisbr otherandr eali
    zedt hathe’smy
    my st
    eriousbabydaddy ..
    ..Moer awalkedbackto
    me(oohher ewegoagai n)* *
    *
    Moera:osany akong’gafisawena
    wankutlwa..
    ..
    don’
    teverandImeanev ersecure
    adickkaAJ. .
    .ennelabofelo..
    ..
    youdon’twanna
    seetheothersideofme. .
    ..osabatl
    ago
    ngfer
    oladibeteMasai.
    ...
    Phalett
    eisoffl
    imits.
    ..
    .i
    usedtodisli
    kehim mar anouIhatehim nxa
    (don’tmakemegocr azyy ouhearme...
    .dont
    everandImeanev ersecur eadickAJ..
    ..i
    t
    shouldbethelastti
    me. .
    ..
    youdon’twannasee
    theothersi
    deofme. .
    ..dontmakememad
    Masai
    ..
    ..
    Phal
    ett
    eisoffl
    imit
    s..
    ..i
    usedt
    odi
    sli
    ke
    hi
    m butnowIhatehi
    m nxa)
    ***
    shewal kedaway..
    ..goshshe’
    smad...
    ..no
    she’sangry.
    ..
    (si
    gh)Irubbedmyeyestheyar e
    painful
    ..
    .t
    heyusuall
    ygetpainf
    ulwhenIhav ea
    headacheorim str
    essed***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    THEFOLLOWI
    NGDAY

    MOERAZAHRARAPULA

    ***Im holdi
    ngAJandMasai i
    spushingthe
    trol
    ley
    ,wear eatthegrocer
    yst or
    eandy esthi
    s
    twinofmi nedi
    dapol ogi
    zeandshepr omised
    thatshe’l
    lal
    way sputAJfir
    st.Shejustneeds
    somet imetofindawayandcont actbaby
    daddyandt ellhimt hetruthwhichwontbea
    probl
    em causeIhav epeoplewhocangetme
    hiscontacts….Wellshe’ssti
    llhear
    tbroken
    abouttheconv ersati
    onshehadwi t
    hRGbut
    she’l
    lbefine….ipraythattheybreakupforgood
    causehedoesn’ tdeserv eheratall
    ***
    Masai
    :sohowwaslunchwi
    thhi
    sbr
    other
    ..
    .i
    nev
    ergott
    oaskyouabouti
    t
    ***Isighed...
    well Iwenttohav elunchwi t
    hmy
    l
    at efiancé’selderbr ot
    herDrench, thel asttimeI
    sawhi m wast hedayaf terwebur iedAl ex,he
    wasassassi natedonhi swayhomef rom my
    placeay earago(si gh)wel l
    hewasn’ taguy
    whodi dlegalthingsandsoi shisbr other .
    ..
    .i
    foundoutonedaywhenwewer ebei ng
    foll
    owedandheaskedmet otaket hewheel
    andhet ookoutagunIdi dn’
    tev enknowhe
    ownedandst artedshoot i
    ngatt heot hercar ..
    ..
    Wel lIbrokeupwi thhim butnikkawoul dn’tlet
    mebe, hekeptpest eri
    ngmeunt il
    Igav ehim
    anotherchanceandf rom thereonwardhe
    taughtmehowt oshootandf ighttoprotect
    my sel
    f..
    .atleasthepromi sedtomakesur eI
    don’tgett obepartofhi sotherli
    feandhekept
    hispromi seuntilt
    heykill
    edhi mincoldblood
    andev ent odayIdon’tknowwhodi dit
    ...
    .iasked
    hisbrotherandhej usttoldmehet ookcar eofi
    t
    andIshoul dn’tworry
    ** *
    Me:aar
    gjustokhewasj
    ustchecki
    nguponme,
    hewasintownso.
    ..
    *
    **Ij
    ustshr
    uggedmyshoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Masai
    :mmmmh
    Me:
    andwhat
    ’st
    hatsupposedt
    omean
    Masai
    :aft
    erayearhecal
    l
    syouandwant
    sto
    hav
    elunchwit
    hyou
    Me:
    andwhat
    ’swr
    ongwi
    tht
    hat
    Masai:
    nooff
    ensebutyouwereengagednot
    marr
    iedtohi
    sli
    tt
    lebr
    othersowhyishe
    checki
    ngupony
    ou
    *
    **sher
    aisedherey
    ebr
    owatme.
    ..
    .mxm*
    **
    Me:
    tsek
    *
    **shel
    aughed.
    ..
    mxm t
    hisi
    diot
    ***
    Me:
    youcanbeani
    diotsomet
    imes
    *
    **shecont
    inuedtolaughunt
    ilAJshout
    ed
    “
    papapapa”tryi
    ngtogetof
    fmyhold***
    Me:
    AJwhati
    sit
    *
    **het
    ri
    edtowiggl
    eoutofmyhol
    dshout
    ing
    “
    papapapa”
    ***
    Voi
    ce:
    WHATTHEFUCK!
    !!
    ***
    adeepscarymalevoi
    cesaidandwebot
    h
    l
    ookedwhereitwascomingfr
    om andwe
    fr
    oze.
    ..
    ”oohshit
    ”iswhati
    splayi
    nginmy
    head*
    **
    AJ:
    papa
    *
    **hewasnowcr
    ying.
    ..
    .t
    heguyl
    ookedatMasai
    andatAJwi
    thascar
    yfr
    ownonhi
    sface*
    **
    AJ:
    papa!
    !!
    ***hewalkedcloserandtookAJfrom meand
    thi
    slit
    tlebet
    rayerwrappedhisti
    nyhands
    aroundhisneckandher estedhi
    sheadonhis
    shouldersni
    ffi
    ng***
    Hi
    m:whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon
    ***
    hesaidl
    ooki
    ngatMasai
    ..
    .hel
    ookedshocked
    andIcanal
    soseesomeangeronhisface*
    **
    Me:
    shecanexpl
    ain
    ***
    Iwasscar edf ormyt winnie.
    ..
    shelookedl i
    ke
    she’saboutt of ai
    nt .
    ..
    thisnikkalooksscaryand
    i
    ntimidating..
    .thosedar keyeshidesomet hing
    si
    nister,event hatmol eonhischeek, t
    hedar k
    colorofhi sskinandt heblackandgr ayi
    sh
    beardonhi sfacemadehi m aninti
    midati
    ng,
    scary,dropdeadgor geoushandsome
    mot herf
    #ck#r ...
    (phweeeu) .
    ..
    outoftheblue
    Masair anawayl eavingmeandhersonal one
    wi
    tht
    hishandsomecr
    eep*
    **
    Me:
    theF!
    !!Noshedi
    dn’
    t.
    ..
    .oohnooshedi
    dn’
    t
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:what
    ’sal
    lthi
    s….
    what
    sgoi
    ngon
    ***
    Isighed.
    ..
    .yhoIhaveacowar
    dofasi
    ster
    bathong.
    ..
    ibreat
    hedoutl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Me: Well
    he’syoursonandIswearshewas
    abouttotel
    lyou.
    ..
    .shedidn’
    tknowwheretof
    ind
    youandwheny ouf i
    nall
    ymetshewasscared
    causeyouareherf i
    ancésbrot
    her
    ..
    .shedi
    dn’
    t
    knowhowt oapproachy ou
    ***
    isaidthatfastthenilookedatthi
    s
    handsomet inybetray
    erresti
    nghisheadonhi s
    dad’sshoulderl
    ikehehasknownhi m sincehe
    wasi nsi
    deMasa’ sbell
    y(mxm neverev ertr
    ust
    thi
    sgender)***
    Alphal
    ett
    e:cal
    lherandf
    ini
    shshoppi
    ngweneed
    total
    kmeandher
    *
    **Ij
    ustnoddedandcal
    l
    edher
    ..
    ..
    whot
    hef
    #ck
    r
    unawayandleaveshert
    winsist
    erandchi
    l
    d
    wi
    thast
    ranger
    ..
    ..
    yhoMasai!
    !!(cl
    aponce)*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    MASAINAI
    MARAPULA

    ***Idon’tknowwhathappenedbutIj ust
    panickedandf oundmy selfrushingoutoft he
    shop...
    wel l
    mor eliker unningoutoft heshop,I
    onlysnappedoutofi twhenIwasi nt heparki
    ng
    l
    otbyMoer a’scar. ...GoshhowcanKhai dothis
    tome. .
    ..
    i wasn’tready ..
    ..
    ijustgotof fthecall
    withMoer aandIf eel badf orl
    eav i
    ngherand
    Khai al
    onewi thAl phal ette..
    ..
    ij
    ust
    panicked...
    .wit
    hat ail betweenmyl egsIwent
    back...
    .igotinsidet hest oreandsear chedf or
    them andf oundMoer ashoppi ngandKhai was
    sti
    lli
    nAl phalette’
    sar msashewal kedbehi nd
    Moer
    a..
    ..
    iswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandwal
    kedcl
    osert
    o
    t
    hem***
    Me:
    im sor
    ryt
    winni
    e
    ***
    shegavemeameanl
    ookt
    hensheshook
    herhead(ei
    sh)
    ***
    Moer
    a:let
    sfi
    nishupher
    esoy
    out
    wocango
    andt
    alk
    ***Iswall
    owednothingandnodded.
    ..
    .icoul
    d
    feelhiseyesonmebutIcouldn’
    tevenlookat
    him...
    .goshimf#ck#d**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ALPHALETTENTSAKO MABUNDA

    *
    **Ican’tbel
    iev
    ethi
    s..
    ..
    ireal
    l
    ycan’
    tbel
    iev
    e
    t
    his.
    ..
    ..Ihaveason,awholesonandtomeet
    himf ort hefir
    stt imei nagr ocer ystoreis
    j
    ust ..
    ..
    yah...
    ..i
    ml ookingatt hiswomanand
    thinkingaboutt hetimewef #ck#dandhowI
    treatedher .
    ...
    thef actt hatshekeptt he
    pregnancyev ent houghshedi dn’thavet ojust
    makesmer especther ..
    ..
    AfterhowIt r
    eatedher
    shedi dn’thav et okeept hepregnancybutshe
    didandmademeaf ather.
    ..
    .Wel lthesignswer e
    there, t
    hedr eamsandmehear i
    ngachi l
    dcr y
    outl oudoutoft hebl ueandwhenIl ookar ound
    there’snochi ldi nsight .
    ..
    ..
    ijust.
    ...
    .ei
    sh...
    .i
    messeduppr ettybad. ..
    ..
    idon’tev enhav ea
    ri
    ghtt obemadather ,wehadaoneni ghtstand
    whi chwasbadf orher(si gh)..
    ..
    yahnehl i
    feis
    messedup, she’smybabymamaandshe’ s
    engagedt omyy oungerbr other..
    .Any waythey
    paidf orever y
    t hi
    ngandhersi sterleft*
    **
    Me:
    let
    ’sgo
    Her
    :wh.
    ..
    wher
    e?
    *
    **shel
    ooksscar
    ed*
    **
    Me:
    tot
    alk
    **
    *thel
    itt
    lemani
    ssl
    eepi
    ngpeacef
    ull
    yinmy
    ar
    ms* *
    *
    Her
    :wecansi
    tinar
    est
    aur
    antand.
    ..
    .t
    alk
    Me:
    nol
    etsgo
    ***
    Iwenttowardst
    hepar
    kingandshef
    oll
    owed
    behindme***
    Her:Alphal
    ettei
    ..
    .idon’
    tfeel
    comfort
    ablegoing
    wit
    hy ou..
    ..
    let
    sjustgositint
    herest
    aurantand
    t
    alkplease
    *
    **It
    urnedandl
    ookedather
    ***
    Me:
    what
    smaki
    ngy
    ouuncomf
    ort
    abl
    e
    *
    **Sheswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Her:
    pleasegi
    vememysonwewi
    l
    ltal
    ksome
    ot
    hertime
    *
    **Ichuckl
    ed*
    **
    Me:
    hei
    sourson.
    ..
    .ourson.
    ..
    .idi
    dn’
    tabandoned
    y
    ouwithhim andit’
    snotyourfaul
    tthatIwasn’
    t
    t
    her
    eeithersoforpeacetoreinbetweenus.
    ..
    .
    f
    orhi
    ssakel et
    ’snotacti
    rr
    ational
    *
    **shejustl
    ookedatmewi
    thaf
    rownonher
    f
    ace***
    Me:
    nowl
    etsgot
    alkt
    henI
    ’
    lldr
    ivey
    ouhome
    ***Icontinuedtowalktowher emycari s
    l
    eav i
    ngherst andi
    ngthere.
    ..
    .iunl
    ockedmycar
    andopenedt hebackseatdoorandwai tedfor
    her..
    ..
    shel ookedangr
    y(welltough).
    ..
    .she
    reachedt hecarandgotinandIgav eherthe
    l
    ittl
    emanandcl osedthedoorandgoti nsi
    de
    thedriverseatandoffwewent ..
    ..

    Aftersomet i
    mewear ri
    vedandmyr emot
    e
    control
    ledgateopenedandIdrovei
    nand
    parkedandIgotoutandopenedherdoorand
    tookthelit
    tl
    emanandwal kedinsi
    dewhil
    eshe
    fol
    lowedme. ..
    .iwentt
    othebedroom
    downstai
    rsandputoursondownandshecame
    andputhiminacomf or
    tabl
    eposi
    ti
    onandwe
    wentbacktothel
    oungeandsatdown***
    Me:
    somet
    hingt
    odr
    ink
    ***shej
    ustshookherheadno(sigh).
    ..
    .iwentt
    o
    pourheraglassofjui
    ceinst
    eadandtooka
    bottl
    eofbeerformeandputt hegl
    assdownon
    thecoff
    eetableinf
    rontofherandsatdown
    thenIsi
    ghed***
    Me:
    what
    ’shi
    sname
    ***
    sheclearedherthr
    oat.
    ..
    .Icoul
    dseethatshe
    l
    ookeduncomf ort
    ableshekeptplay
    ingwi
    thher
    phonethat’
    sonherhands...
    asformemymi nd
    i
    swor ki
    ngov er
    ti
    me* *
    *
    Her
    :Al
    …..
    Alphal
    ett
    eKhai
    Rapul
    a
    ***
    Ican’
    tbeli
    eveshenamedhi
    m af
    terme..
    ..
    she
    shoul
    dbehat i
    ngmebutshenamedourson
    aft
    erme..
    ..Anywayicl
    ear
    edmythr
    oat*
    **
    Me:
    what
    ’st
    hest
    orybehi
    ndKhai
    Her
    :mymot
    hernamedheraf
    terourl
    atef
    ather
    *
    **Ij
    ustnoddedandopenedt
    hebeerwi
    thmy
    t
    eethandtookasip*
    **
    Me:
    whathappenedt
    ohi
    m..
    .y
    ourf
    ather
    *
    **shebreathedoutandbli
    nkedf
    astpr
    obabl
    y
    t
    ofightbackthetear
    s***
    Her:di
    edi
    nacaracci
    dental
    ongwi
    thmy
    bi
    ologi
    cal
    mother
    **shesighed.
    ..
    ohhhsothemothershet
    alked
    aboutisnotherbi
    ologi
    cal
    mother.
    ..
    mmmh
    ok***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    SHALATEHI
    LLSMTHEMBU
    Tarek:l
    ookIloveyoubabe..
    ..
    il
    iveforyou
    nana..
    .i
    m doi
    ngt hi
    sforus.
    ..
    ididthi
    sforus.
    ..
    i
    l
    ovey oubeli
    eveme
    ***Ijustl ookedathi m. .
    ..myf aceisf il
    ledwi th
    tearsandIkeeponwi pingmysnor twi thmy
    shirt.
    ...
    i cantbel ievehedi dthistome, Il
    ovet hi
    s
    manwi thev erythingi nmeandhedomel i
    ke
    this..
    ..
    i didn’tev enseet hesi gns..
    ..Ial most
    diedonourweddi ngdaybecauseofhi m now
    hehur tmebybr i
    ngi ngat hir
    dpar tyint oour
    l
    ives, ourmar riage. .
    ...t
    hispi eceofsh! tcheated
    andgott hesidedi shpr egnantandnowhe
    want st ot akeherast hesecondwi feknowi ng
    full
    ywel lthatIcan’ tcarr yababyt of ullter
    m
    becauseonourweddi ngday ,Iwasshotbyhi s
    ex...
    .wel lshewant edt oshoothi m andIst ood
    i
    nf r
    ontofhi m. ..
    .nowIr egr etitsheshoul d’
    ve
    kil
    ledhi mi nsteadt hi swor l
    dwoul dbeabet ter
    placewi thouthi m…. .heconf essedl astni ght
    andi vej ustbeeni nhel lsincet hen,atf ir
    stI
    thoughtitsaprankbuti
    tsnot.
    ..
    im hur
    tbeyond
    measur e,Ifeel
    li
    kemyheartwil
    lstopbeat
    ing
    anymi nutenow….if
    eell
    ikei
    m abouttorun
    mad...
    .iraisedmyheadandlookedathim***
    Me:I
    ’
    llnev
    erf
    orgi
    vey
    ouf
    ort
    his
    Tar
    ek:bambolwam l
    ookwe.
    ..
    wecanmakei
    t
    workIpromi
    sedyou.
    ..
    wewil
    l
    *
    **i
    cantbel
    i
    evet
    hisman*
    **
    Me:
    Iwantadi
    vor
    ce
    **
    *hiseyespoppedoutandIsawhi
    shands
    st
    arttoshake*
    **
    Tarek:thatwil
    lneverhappen.
    ..
    .mi
    nanawe
    sohlukaniswaukufaShalat
    e!!
    !(onl
    ydeat
    hwi
    l
    l
    breakusapar tShal
    ate)
    *
    **mor
    etear
    sgushedout
    ***
    Me:IWANTADIVORCETAREK MTHEMBU..
    ..
    I
    WANTITNOW….IM DONE….
    IM DONE….
    I
    ENDUREDALOTFORYOU…. YOURMOTHER
    HATESME, SHEEVENINSULTSMYLATE
    MOTHEREVERYCHANCESHEGETJUST
    BECAUSEIFAILTOMAKEYOUAFATHER…. I
    M
    DONE…..
    THERE’SNOCOMI NGBACKFROM
    THIS….
    IGIVEUP….
    IM DONE!!
    !
    *
    **i
    shout
    edathi
    m**
    *
    Tarek:NGEKEUYITHOLEKI
    MI..
    ..
    NGEKE!!
    !
    (you’l
    lnev
    ergetfr
    om me.
    ..
    never
    !!
    !)
    ..
    ..
    YOUARE
    MYWI FEANDI TWILLREMAINLIKETHAT
    UNTILUMVELINQANGI(GOD)REMEMBERS
    ONEOFUSEVENATTHATYOU’ LLSTILL
    REMAI NMYWI FEEVENINDEATH!!!
    Me:IHATEYOU..
    ..
    GETTHEF#CKOUT.
    ..
    .GET
    OUTNJADINI….
    I’
    LLNEVERFORGI
    VEYOUFOR
    THI
    S….NEVER!
    !!
    ***
    Isai dcr
    yingoutl
    oudandhej ustwalked
    awayl ooki
    ngangryleavi
    ngmecr yi
    ngmyl ungs
    out.
    ..
    .hejusthurtmebeyondrepairandhestil
    l
    hasthegut stoshoutandlookangry….
    f#ck
    him!.
    ..
    .hehur tmedeepl y.
    ..
    .il
    ovehim, Igavehim
    myal landItrustedhim andnowhe’ sdoi ngme
    l
    ikethis..
    ..
    he’sbreaki
    ngmel i
    kethis.
    ..
    ..howdar e
    he..
    ..
    aftereveryt
    hingwe’vebeent hrough...
    .af
    ter
    allt
    hepr omisesandpl edgeshemadet omehe
    breaksmel ikethis**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    MASAINAI
    MARAPULA

    ***
    myphoneringasAlphal
    ett
    eisbusyt
    alki
    ng
    towhomeveronthephoneanditsMoeraagai
    n
    soIanswer
    ed***
    Me:
    twi
    nni
    e
    Moer
    a:ar
    eyouandAJst
    il
    lok
    *
    **i
    sighed*
    **
    Me:
    yeah
    Moera:okcal
    lmeifsomethi
    nghappensf
    or
    nowim goi
    ngtoseeHil
    lsshesoundedabi
    tof
    f
    overt
    hephone
    *
    **i
    justf
    rowned….
    ihopei
    tsnot
    hingser
    ious*
    **
    Me:
    okkeepmeupdat
    ed
    Moer
    a:sur
    e
    *
    **weendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    sor
    ryaboutt
    hat
    ….
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingdown*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    twi
    ns
    ***oohhe’
    sdonewi
    thhi
    sphonecal
    l.
    ..
    .any
    way
    Inodded*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    who’
    stheol
    dest
    Me:
    her
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Icoul
    dtel
    l
    ….sodoesSt
    evensknow
    *
    **i
    swal
    l
    owedhar
    dlooki
    ngdown*
    *
    Me:
    y..
    .y
    eah
    Al
    pha:
    mmhhh
    ***thensilence...
    ..het henhegotupagai nand
    putthebot tl
    eont opoft hecoff
    eetablethen
    camet owar dsme. ..
    .goshmyhear tiseven
    beatingfast..
    ..
    her eachedouthi sbighandt o
    meandhei ndicatedt hatIshouldtakeitandI
    swallowednot hi
    ngandsl owl
    yputmyhandon
    hisandhehel pedmeupt henoutofthebluehe
    pull
    edmei ntohi sbroadandmuscl edchestand
    hehel dmeandIj ustst oodther
    eshocked* *
    *
    Him: t
    hankyouf orkeepingthe
    pregnancy
    ..
    .thankyouf ormakingmeafat
    her
    andim sorr
    yf oral
    lthepainIcausedy
    ou….
    i
    hopeonedayy ou’
    llf
    orgiveme
    *
    ***
    whatt
    he….
    .di
    dhej
    ust
    …..
    ummm y
    ho*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….

    #TODAREI
    STODO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER3

    .
    .
    .
    JABU

    *
    **Ican’
    tbel
    i
    eveSbudi
    dthat
    ,Idi
    dn’
    tev
    en
    knowhehadi tinhi m( sigh)..
    ..imjustgladmy
    brotherst ookcar eofev eryt
    hingandt heyeven
    dealtwi t
    ht hepol i
    cet hatwer ecalledbyt he
    noisynei ghbors...
    .AfterRusl anwi pedoutt he
    scenewher eSbushotAmof rom herbr ainthey
    tookhert othehospi tal...
    .Whatbaf fl
    esmei s
    thatuSbudoesn’ tev enshowr emor seforwhat
    hedi d..
    ..
    .Heatht alkedt ohi m andwhathef ound
    outshockedev eryone....
    hesai dSbusai dshe
    deser vesitandmor ef orhav ingLilekill
    edand
    that’
    swhenweknewt hathehear dust al
    king,I
    event oldmybr otherst hatweshoul dalsowi pe
    Sbu’smemor yaboutt hatshoot ingsceneand
    Ruslansai dev enifhedoes,i twi l
    ltur
    nmyboy
    i
    ntoanangr yhumanbei ngcausehe’ snot
    remor sefulandt here’sj usttoomuchangeri n
    him soheneedst ol etgooft hatangerandsee
    thatwhathedi di swr ongt henhecanwi peof f
    thatscene
    Thingsarest i
    llbadonmysi de,allIdoi sdri
    nk
    tonumbt hepai n,Ist
    il
    lcan’tbelievet hatmy
    l
    itt
    legirli
    sgonej ustli
    kethat .
    ..
    .ican’tseem to
    acceptitinfactIknowInev erwill
    ,shewas
    kil
    l
    edi ncoldblood(swal lowedt eary)..
    ..
    .iwi
    shI
    canturnbackt hehandsoft imeandl eaveAmo
    l
    ikeIwast oldtodo. .
    ..
    iwishIl i
    stenedt o
    everyonewhowar nedmeaboutherr ecent
    changeofat ti
    tude***
    Heat
    h:y
    ouknowber
    vei
    snotasol
    uti
    onr
    ight
    *
    **hesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngi
    n**
    *
    Me:j
    ustl
    etmemour
    nformypr
    incessi
    npeace
    j
    oh
    ***
    Iheardhim si
    gh..
    ..
    he’sbeentherei
    nf actall
    ofthem aret
    hereformebutal l
    Iwantist obe
    onmyownbuthei t
    hesesnamnams(f ools)
    don’tcar
    etheyareallupinmyf acesayi
    ngt hey
    don’twantmet obealonenxa***
    Heat
    h:whi
    l
    eyou’
    rebusymour
    ningourpr
    incess
    don’
    tfor
    getaboutourpr
    ince,healsoneedshi
    s
    fat
    hermoreespeci
    all
    yafterwhathedid
    Me: uzobar
    ight(
    he’l
    lbef
    ine)
    ..
    ..
    angi
    thi
    he
    knowshowt oaim agunandshooti
    ncold
    bloodsouzobaright
    *
    **Isai
    ddi
    smi
    ssi
    vel
    y**
    *
    Heat
    h:f
    #tsek.
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ngrubbi
    shnow
    msunuwakhonxa(youcunt)
    ***hewalkedawaylookingpissedmxm. .
    ..
    i
    conti
    nuedt odr
    inkmybeerwi thmypr incess’
    s
    faceplast
    eredi
    nmymi nd..
    ..
    fuck..
    ..t
    ears
    gushedoutofmyey esasmymi ndwentt ohow
    Ifoundherbodycoveredinbloodonherbed* *
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATI
    ON
    ***
    Kennyslammedi
    ntoherandf
    il
    ledthe
    condom wi
    thhi
    ssemenandhekissedher
    for
    ehead**
    *
    Kenny
    :thanky
    oust
    handwasam (myl
    ove)
    ***
    hesai dsmil
    i
    ngatherandshesmi l
    edbackat
    hi
    m. .
    ..
    hepull
    edoutsl
    owlyandlaidnexttoher
    andpulledhert
    ohischestandheldher*
    **
    Kenny:doy
    ouhavesecondt
    hought
    sabout
    gi
    vingusachance
    *
    **Shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    mj ustscar
    edofwhatpeopl
    ewi
    l
    lsay
    moreespeci
    all
    yyourf
    amil
    y
    Kenny:wel
    lIdon’
    tcar
    ewhatpeopl
    ewil
    lsayas
    l
    ongasIhav eyoubymysi
    denothi
    ngelse
    matter
    s
    ***
    shesnuggl edcl
    oserf
    eel
    inglov
    ed..
    .shewas
    sti
    l
    l hear
    tbr
    okenbyJabu’swordsbutshetol
    d
    herselft
    hatshewontdwell
    onwhathappened
    eventhoughithurttohearhi
    m blamingherf
    or
    herdaughter
    ’sdeath..
    .shest
    il
    lcantbel
    iev
    e
    Jabul
    il
    eisgonej ustli
    kethat
    ***
    Loll
    y:y
    oudoknowt
    heygonnacal
    lmenames
    ri
    ght
    Kenny
    :andpeopl
    ewi
    l
    lloset
    hei
    rteet
    h
    *
    **shel
    aughedandhej
    oinedher
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    ou’
    recr
    azy
    Kenny
    :inl
    ovewi
    thy
    ouy
    eah
    ***
    shebl
    ushedandheki
    ssedt
    het
    opofher
    head*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:whydi
    dIendupwi
    thhi
    m andnoty
    ou
    *
    **Kennysi
    ghed*
    **
    Kenny:becauseIwastoomuchi
    ntomaki
    ng
    moneyandmaki nguthai
    ma(fat
    her
    )pr
    oudthat
    If
    orgottoliv
    ealit
    tl
    e
    *
    **Hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Kenny:i
    mj ustsor
    ryt
    hatIwasn’
    tther
    eto
    prot
    ectyou..
    ..
    .
    *
    **heki
    ssedt
    het
    opofherhead*
    **
    Kenny:buti
    m her
    enowandIwon’
    tletany
    thi
    ng
    happentoyou
    ***
    shesighednotsayi
    nganyt
    hingthenher
    phonerang,sher
    eachedfori
    tanditwasSbu
    cal
    li
    ngherandshequickl
    yansweredsit
    ti
    ng
    up***
    Lol
    l
    y:Sbuhey
    Sbu:
    h..
    hisi
    sLol
    l
    y
    Lol
    l
    y:umm ar
    eyouok
    *
    **hesoundedabi
    tof
    f**
    *
    Sbu:
    umm. ..
    .whe.
    ..
    whenar
    eyoucomi
    ngt
    his
    si
    desisLol
    l
    y
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:umm i
    m notsur
    e..
    .what
    ’swr
    ong.
    ..
    arey
    ou
    ok.
    ..
    .di
    dsomet
    hinghappen
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:Sbu?
    ?
    Sbu:Ineedtot
    alkt
    oyouandnotov
    ert
    he
    phone..
    .i
    ..
    ..
    *
    **Het
    hensni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Sbu:pl
    easemaket
    imeandcomet
    hissi
    de
    si
    sLoll
    y
    *
    **herhear
    tisnowbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:okI
    ’
    llcomet
    hisFr
    idayhow’
    sthat
    Sbu:
    ok
    Lol
    l
    y:Sbuwhat
    ’swr
    ong.
    ..
    .ar
    eyouok
    Sbu:
    i.
    ..
    .idi
    dsomet
    hingbad
    Lol
    l
    y:okokI’
    l
    lcomeonFr
    idayandweummm
    wewil
    ltal
    kabouti
    tok
    Sbu:
    ok
    Lol
    l
    y:okI
    ’
    llcheckony
    oul
    aterok
    Sbu:
    ok
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    landshebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Kenny
    :what
    ’swr
    ong
    Lol
    ly
    :itsSbuJabu’sson.
    ..
    .somet
    hinghappened
    and.
    ..
    .hejustsoundedof
    f
    Kenny:whyi
    shecal
    l
    ingy
    ou.
    ..
    .wher
    eishi
    s
    fat
    herandot
    herf
    amil
    ymembers
    *
    **shel
    ookedathi
    m wi
    thar
    aisedey
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Loll
    y:may
    behechoosest
    otr
    ustmei
    nst
    eadof
    them
    Kenny:Idon’tfeelcomf ort
    ablewit
    hthis
    Lorr
    aine.
    ...
    .heknowsy ou’r
    efarandnowy ou
    gonnagot herewher eelseweshoul dbe
    spendingtimet ogetherthi
    sweekend..
    ..
    you
    knowIpl annedt hi
    sweekendf orustogetto
    knoweachot hersomemor e
    *
    **Lor
    rai
    nebr
    eat
    hedoutget
    ti
    ngof
    fthebed*
    **
    Kenny
    :uy
    aphi
    manj
    e(wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ngnow)
    Lol
    l
    y:mypl
    ace
    **
    *shesai
    dpicki
    nghercl
    othesandget
    ti
    ng
    dr
    essedandKennysi
    ghed***
    Kenny
    :ar
    eyouangr
    yatmenow
    Lol
    l
    y:nopeIj
    ust
    ..
    ..
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lolly:
    Sbui sagoodboyKenny ..
    ..
    respect
    ful and
    kind..
    ..hi
    sf ami lyhelpedmeagr eatdeal.
    ..
    .ifit
    wasn’ tfort hem especi al
    l
    yJabu,Heathandhi s
    grandmot herwewoul dn’
    thavefoundmy
    brother ’
    sbody .
    ...
    andnowSbuwant shelpf rom
    me.Ican’ tbelieveyousomehowf eelentitl
    edt o
    choosewhoIshoul dhel pandwhoIshoul dn’t
    ....
    Sbui sf ami l
    ytomeandi fyoudon’tgetthat
    thenangazi (Idon’tknow)
    **
    *Kennysi
    ghedgett
    ingoutofbedandhetook
    of
    fthecondom onhi
    snowf l
    accidmanhood
    andher
    eachedf
    orat
    issueandwr
    appedi
    twi
    th
    i
    t**
    *
    Kenny: l
    ookIdon’
    tfeel
    enti
    tl
    edorany t
    hingli
    ke
    that.
    ..
    .myquesti
    oniswouldyoufeelhappyifI
    cancelonusandgohel psomeboyorgi rli
    n
    anotherprovi
    nce.
    ..
    aboythathasafatherand
    otherfamil
    ymember swhocanhelphim
    Lol
    l
    y:het
    rust
    edmeKennet
    h
    *
    **shesai
    ddef
    ensi
    vel
    y**
    *
    Kenny:
    thenwhataboutme.
    ..
    whatabout
    us.
    ..
    thi
    sweekendheh
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngpi
    ssedof
    f**
    *
    Kenny:Iplannedthisweekendf or
    us..
    ..
    everyt
    hingispaidandnowy ou’
    redroppi
    ng
    everyt
    hingtogohel paboyt hatyouarenot
    evenrelat
    edt o.
    ..
    ..
    youwantedt hist
    owor k.
    ..
    we
    promisedthatwewi llgi
    vethisourall
    and
    al
    readyim beingsidel
    inedandnotmadea
    pri
    ori
    ty
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Kenny:youcoul
    d’vefor
    cedhimtotell
    youov er
    thephoneandhelpedhimresol
    veitoverthe
    phoneorsuggestedtocal
    lhisf
    atheroruncles
    orsomet hi
    ngbutnotwhatyouj
    ustdidasi fI
    meannot hi
    ngtoyou
    ***
    sheswall
    owedlookingathi
    m. .
    ..
    hel
    ooked
    angry
    ,shewatchedhi
    m picki
    nghisunder
    wear
    andwalki
    ngtothebathroom***
    Kenny
    :lockt
    hedoorony
    ourwayout
    ***sheswal l
    owedhar dast ear
    sf i
    ll
    edherey es
    thenshepi ckedherhandbagandwal ked
    out...
    .i
    nsidet hebathroom Kennycl enchedhi s
    j
    awst ry
    ingt ocalm himselfdown....hedidn’t
    hav eapr oblem withtheboybuthehasa
    problem wi thhisfatheranduncle...
    .whatt he
    grandmot hersaidthatti
    mest i
    llstuckwi thhim
    andhet oldhimselfthatifsheagreest obehis
    he’l
    l makesur eshestaysawayf rom t hem
    especi
    all
    yJabu*
    **
    Kenny
    :damni
    t
    *
    **hesai
    dfeeli
    ngf
    rust
    rat
    edandhegoti
    nsi
    de
    t
    heshower**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    NARRATI
    ON

    ***At3i nthemorninghewasal r
    eadyawake
    busymi xi
    ngherbshe’sgonnauset ohelpKgosi
    hisfr
    iendandpatientwith,
    hefini
    shedmi xing
    theherbshummi nghi sf
    avori
    teancestr
    alsong
    andhewentt ot
    her oom Kgosiwassleepingin
    andhest oodbythebedl ooki
    ngathim...
    .he
    couldseehewasrestl
    essinhissleepandhe
    fel
    tsorryf
    orhi
    m causehe’sbeent hr
    oughhel
    l
    andbackandstil
    lhe’
    sgoingthroughhell
    now* *
    *
    Kgosi
    :takeapi
    ctur
    eitl
    ast
    slonger
    Al
    pha:
    nxIt
    houghty
    ou’
    resl
    eepi
    ng
    Kgosi
    :howcanIsl
    eepwhenal
    lyousmel
    ll
    ikei
    s
    di
    tl
    hare(her
    bs)
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    echuckl
    ed*
    **
    Alpha:getupandshowersoonwewi
    l
    lleav
    efor
    theri
    vertocleansey
    ou
    *
    **Kgosi
    sighedsi
    tt
    ingup*
    **
    Alpha:oohandy ourbrotheriswait
    ingout
    side
    theyardlookingangr y
    ...
    .heneedstochil
    land
    resti
    npeacet hi
    sthingofhi m meddli
    ngin
    l
    ov er
    squar r
    elsisnoton. ..
    .whycanthebehave
    l
    ikeotherancest ors
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheadheadi
    ngf
    ort
    hedoor
    ***
    Alpha:im sti
    ll
    say i
    ngitagai
    n..
    ..
    vanhuva
    l
    ev ukosi
    ni v
    akar at
    anaswi pokoswakona
    (royalt
    ypeopl earetr
    oublesomeev ent
    hei
    r
    ghosts)
    ***
    hewalkedoutandKgosisi
    ghed.
    ..
    hegotout
    ofbedandwenttotheen-
    suit
    eandtooka
    shower
    ***

    ATTHERI
    VER

    ***Al phalettemixedcoi nswi thmut hiina


    plasticbowl chantingthenhet hrewthem insi
    de
    thef l
    owi ngwat erthenhest oodt here
    quietly.
    ..
    .thenoutoft hebl uestrongwi nd
    startedbl owingar oundt hem thent heyhearda
    definingsoundcomi ngfr om thebushest hat
    surroundst her iver..
    .i
    twasaswar m ofbees
    fl
    yingt owar dsthem athi ghspeed* **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:donotpani
    canddon’
    t,
    Irepeat
    ..
    ..
    don’tl
    etyourotherper
    sonal
    i
    tiest
    akeov
    eroral
    l
    thi
    swillbefornothi
    ng
    ***Kgosi swal l
    owedhar dast hebees
    surroundedt hem maki ngbonechi ll
    ing
    noise..
    ..
    theysur r
    oundedt hem f orsomet i
    me
    untilt
    heyf lewawayf rom them andKgosi
    breathedoutl oudrelievedandt hey
    waited..
    ..afterami nuteorsoahugesnakesl id
    outoft hewat erandKgosi heldhispeet i
    ghtas
    i
    twasaboutt ocomeoutasf earcreptinwhil
    e
    Alphalett
    eknel tonthegr oundwi thhishead
    bowed. .
    ..i
    tslit
    heredt owardsKgosi andthat
    peehewashol di
    ngr andownhi slegsashe
    vi
    siblyshook* **
    Kgosi
    :oohGod.
    ..
    oohGod.
    ..
    Alphal
    ett
    e..
    ..
    .
    ***
    hewhisperedandtr
    iedt
    ocal lAl
    phal
    ette..
    ..
    it
    surr
    oundedhimlooki
    ngscarythenitr
    aisedit
    s
    headfaci
    nghim andi
    topeneditsmouthwi de
    ri
    ghtonhisfaceandKgosif
    ainted*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    SHALATE(HI
    LLS)

    ***Myhear ti
    sbleedingandIkeepaski ng
    myselfifi
    m dreamingorwhat .
    ..
    .ican’
    tbeli
    eve
    Tarekisdoingthi
    stome.Ican’ tbeli
    evehe
    choosestobreakmel i
    kethi
    s,Ihavegiventhi
    s
    manmyhear t,
    bodyandsoul andhej usthurt
    s
    mel i
    keImeannot hingtohim***
    Moera:ha’
    ahHi
    ll
    s..
    ..
    youwon’
    tki
    l
    lyour
    sel
    f
    becauseofaman
    **
    * shesai
    dwal ki
    ngf r
    om t
    hekitchenandI
    wipedmyt ear
    sof fwithmyshirt
    ,she’sbeen
    withmesinceIcalledherhere.
    ..
    .she’
    smybest
    f
    ri
    endandsi steralongwit
    hhertwi nsi
    ster
    Masai,wel
    l Masaiismorelikeouryounger
    sist
    ersi
    nceMoer
    aist
    heel
    destandi
    m ol
    der
    thanbot
    hthem**
    *
    Me:
    ithur
    tsMo
    Moera:Iknowbabytr
    ustmeIknow.
    ..
    ij
    ustwi
    sh
    Icantakeawayyourpai
    n
    *
    **Shesai
    dwi
    thapai
    nedl
    ookonherf
    ace*
    **
    Me:howcanhedomel ikethi
    sMo..
    ..
    all
    I’
    veev
    er
    doneisl
    ovehi
    m Mo.
    ..
    .igavehim mywhole
    hear
    tandhedomeli
    ket his
    Moera: he’
    saselfishpigthat
    ’swhy
    ..
    ..
    he’
    sjust
    l
    uckyy oust i
    l
    llov
    ehi m orel
    sehewouldbe
    Hi
    tl
    er’sbi t
    chinhellbynow
    ***t
    rustmeshemeansi t..
    ..
    Moer ais..
    .y
    ahI’l
    l
    j
    ustleav eitatthat..
    .anywayIj ustwipedmy
    fal
    li
    ngt ears..
    .Tarekhashur tmebey ond
    repai
    r..
    .ri
    ghtt henthedooropenedandt hedevi
    l
    himselfwal kedin,Ijustfel
    tmyhear tbeati
    ng
    fastasangerf i
    ll
    edmeup. ..
    .iheardMoer a
    chuckli
    ngnextt ome. .
    ..
    .wellshehat es
    hi
    m..
    ..
    sheal
    waysf
    elthe’
    snotgoodenoughf
    or
    meandIthi
    nkhej
    ustprovedherr
    ight
    ***
    Tar
    :hi
    Moer
    a:ar
    eny
    ainx
    a(he’
    ssay
    ingny
    ainxa)
    **
    *shegotupandwentbackt
    otheki
    tchen.
    ..
    .he
    si
    ghedandcametowardsme***
    Tar
    :ofcour
    seyouwouldcal
    lherwhenwear
    e
    hav
    ingprobl
    emsinourmarr
    iage
    *
    **Ij
    ustchuckl
    ednx.
    ..
    ..
    thi
    smani
    stest
    ingme
    f
    orreal
    ***
    Me:
    probl
    emsTar
    ek?
    ??
    Tar
    :lookst
    handwasam
    Me:
    don’
    tcal
    lmet
    hat
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tar:Iknowy oudon’
    tseeitnowbuti
    m doi
    ng
    thi
    sf orus.
    ..
    .pl
    easej
    usttr
    ustme
    Me:
    leav
    emysi
    ghtTar
    ek
    **
    *Isaidnotevenl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m andIhear
    d
    hi
    m sighi
    ng***
    Tar
    :Il
    oveyoumkami
    ..
    ..
    kakhul
    ufut
    hi(Il
    ovey
    ou
    mywif
    e..
    .al
    ot)
    Me:
    mxm
    Tar
    :I’
    l
    lletal
    lthi
    sdi
    srespectgocausey ou’
    re
    hur
    tbutdon’tmakeitahabitcausenextti
    meI
    won’
    tbet hi
    sunder
    standi
    ng
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaser
    ioust
    one*
    **
    Moera:
    kol
    obeyanodecid(
    a)gononamo
    pel
    aka(api
    gjustdeci
    dedtogetf
    att
    eri
    nfr
    ont
    ofme)
    ***
    shesaidstandingbyt
    hekitchen
    entr
    ance.
    ..
    .shelookspi
    ssed*
    **
    Tar:t
    hisismyhouseMoerainfactIt
    hinky
    ou
    shoul
    dl eave,youhav
    enobusi
    nesswithmy
    marit
    alaffair
    s
    Moer
    a:wel
    ltoughcauset
    hisi
    smysi
    ster
    ’s
    houseasmuchasi
    tsy
    our
    s
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thanat
    ti
    tude*
    **
    Tar
    :she’
    snoty
    ourf
    #ck#nsi
    ster
    !!
    !
    *
    **heshout
    ed*
    *
    Moer
    a:andy
    ou’
    renotmanenough.
    ..
    yourpoi
    nt
    Mrmanwhor
    e??
    ?
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thanat
    ti
    tude*
    **
    Tar
    :whatdi
    dyoucal
    lme
    ***
    hesaidwal
    kingtowardsherreadytodo
    somet
    hinghe’
    llpr
    obablyregr
    etandIgotup.
    ..
    i
    needt
    ost opt
    hisbefor
    eallhel
    lbreakl
    oose*
    **
    Me:
    STOP.
    ..
    STOPI
    TYOUTWO!
    !!
    *
    **Tarstoppedwal
    kinglooki
    ngangr
    ywhi
    l
    eMo
    j
    uststoodther
    eunbothered*
    **
    Moer
    a:THEREASONSHECANTGI VEYOUA
    CHI
    LDISBECAUSESHESAVEDYOUR
    UNGRATEFULA$$….
    OUNGRATEFUL
    WENA…..
    SHESHOULD’
    VELETYOUDI EI’
    M
    SURESHEWOULDBEHAPPI LYMARRI
    EDWI TH
    HEROWNKIDSANDALOVI NGANDFAITHFUL
    HUSBANDBYNOW ANDNOTDEALI NGWITH
    BOFEBEBAGAO(wit
    hyourwhori
    ngways)
    Tar:IwantheroutofmyhouseShal
    ater
    ight
    thi
    smi nut
    e!!
    !
    ***
    hesaidpoint
    ingatherl ookingangryandI
    j
    ustbreat
    hedout .
    ..
    idon’tneedt hi
    s..
    .hewalked
    awayandIjustsatdownf eel
    ingoverwhelmed
    andIheardMoer asigh*
    * *
    Moer a:I’
    m sorryyou’r
    ehur t
    ingbutim notsorr
    y
    fortell
    i
    nghi mt hetrut
    h….yougotshotandIkept
    quiet….hermothertreatsyoul i
    kesh!tandIkept
    quietcausetheyar eyourinl awsbutenoughis
    enoughShal ate….enoughisenough…. gao
    chiwana(y ou’renotaor phan)y ouhavea
    familyanditkill
    smewhenev erIseeyoutr
    ying
    tohidey ourpainwithyoursmi le….i
    tki
    ll
    sme
    Hil
    ls
    *
    **tear
    srandownmycheeksandal
    oudsob
    l
    eftmymouth***
    Moera:
    I’
    ll
    leav
    e..
    ..butI
    ’
    llbebackwhenhe’
    snot
    ar
    ound
    *
    **Ij
    ustshookmyhead*
    **
    Me:
    don’
    tgo.
    ..
    .pl
    ease
    Moer a:
    ikeeponpissi
    nghim offHi
    ll
    s,even
    thoughIhatehi
    m butyousti
    lll
    ovehim soIcant
    punchhim asofyetsoit
    sjustabadideaforme
    tostayhereandFYImaneedst oknowabout
    whatsgoingon
    ***Ijustlai
    dont hecouchandcl osedmy
    eyes...
    .ihaveaterri
    bleheadache,Ihav
    ebeen
    betrayedandmysi st
    erwantst ochokesl
    am my
    husband. ..
    thi
    sismyl i
    fe***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --
    NARRATED

    ATTHERI
    VER

    ***
    Kgosi wokeupwhenwat erwasspl
    ashedon
    hi
    sf ace.
    ..
    hegaspedforai
    randAlphal
    ett
    e
    pull
    edhim upandhestumbledabitandhe
    fi
    nall
    yfoundhisbal
    ance**
    *
    Kgosi
    :wh.
    ..
    whathappened
    Al
    pha:
    youf
    aint
    ed
    ***
    Kgosif
    rownedt
    henher
    emember
    edt
    he
    snake*
    **
    Kgosi
    :the.
    .t
    hehugesnake
    Alphal
    ett
    e:i
    twenttofeed.
    ..
    .shepermi
    tt
    edusto
    usethewaterwhi
    leshegoest ofeed.
    ..
    .come
    **
    *Kgosil
    ookedaround.
    ..
    .hecantbeli
    evehe’
    s
    st
    il
    lal
    ive,
    itwasabouttoeathim..
    ..
    anywayhe
    f
    oll
    owedAlphal
    ett
    ei nsi
    det
    hewat
    erf
    orget
    ti
    ng
    t
    hathewethispants***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    ***t
    heyar enowi nthewoodsandKgosi is
    kneeli
    ngont hegr oundfacingdownashi m and
    Alphalettepr
    ay..
    .aft
    erpray i
    ngAlphalet
    test art
    ed
    chantingancestralchantssummoni ngRi chard
    tojoi
    nt hem thenallofasuddenKgosi feltthe
    hairont hebackofhi sheadstandingandhi s
    shouldersgetti
    ngheav i
    erandheav ieranda
    suddenheadachepouncedonhi m and
    Alphalettest
    oppedchant ing**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    sher
    e
    ***Kgosi
    lookedaroundbuthedidn’
    tseehim
    buthecouldfeelsomeoneorsomet hi
    ng
    standi
    ngbehindhim..
    .hi
    sheartbeatsofasthe
    thoughti
    twouldexplode**
    *
    Alpha:don’
    tbescar
    ed...
    he’
    sangr
    ybuthe’
    syour
    brother
    ,yourbl
    ood.
    ..
    .nowtal
    ktohi
    m..
    ..
    openup
    tohim,befree
    *
    **Kgosi
    swal
    l
    owedhar
    dthenhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Kgosi
    :Ti
    rel
    o..
    ..
    .
    *
    **het
    hensi
    ghedagai
    nfeel
    i
    ngemot
    ional
    ***
    Kgosi :
    I..
    .ihav
    eamul ti
    plepersonal
    itydi
    sorder
    anditsmessi ngwithmyl i
    fe.
    ..
    .ihav
    eki l
    l
    ed
    peoplet osurvi
    veandnowoneoft he
    personaliti
    esSaddam sl
    eptwi t
    hBot l
    haleand
    that’
    sgonnahur tDineowhenshef inds
    out..
    .she’sgonnaleaveme
    *
    **heswal
    l
    owedpai
    nful
    l
    y**
    *
    Kgosi
    :Il
    oveherTi
    rel
    o
    *
    **wi
    ndstar
    tedbl
    owi
    ngar
    oundt
    hem
    v
    iol
    ent
    ly*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tst
    op
    Kgosi
    :i
    m sur
    eyounowknowt
    hatshe’
    smy
    chosenone. ...
    butImadeherangr yandhurther
    feeli
    ngscauseIcoul dn’tsl
    eepwi thher..
    ..
    .i
    couldn’tcauseIf eltguiltyTi
    relo..
    ..
    iwanted
    confirmationinawayt hatyouar eblessi
    ngour
    union..
    ..i
    feltli
    kesl eepingwithherwi llbeme
    spitt
    ingony ourgrav eandmemor y.
    ..
    iwanteda
    signthaty ou’r
    ebl essingus, Ididn’
    tmeant o
    makeherangr yIjust..
    ..
    *
    **heswal
    lowedhardast
    ear
    sgushedout
    f
    all
    ingont
    heground**
    *
    Kgosi:Imissy ou.
    ..
    .imissyousomuch...
    .iwi
    shI
    wastheonet hatgotkil
    ledandnotyou.
    ..
    .iwi
    shI
    cantakey ourplace.
    ..
    ..
    Gautawillgr
    owup
    wit
    houty ou...
    ..
    youdidn’
    tdeservetodi
    e
    Tee.
    ..
    .youdi dn’
    tdeservetodie
    *
    **hesai
    dcr
    yingt
    hent
    hewi
    ndst
    opped*
    **
    Kgosi:
    Iactstrongbuti
    m notbr
    o..
    ..i
    m dy
    ing
    i
    nside.
    ..
    .if
    oughttocomebacktomyf amil
    yand
    youwerekill
    edbeforewecaneven
    reconnect
    ..
    ..
    ifeelemptyatthesamet i
    meim
    angry.
    ..
    im madangr yatourancest
    orsfor
    l
    etti
    ngy oudi
    el i
    kethat
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    ocr
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Richar
    d
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngathi
    m andRi
    chi
    ewascr
    ying
    t
    oo***
    Alpha: nowy ouknowwhathe’ sbeen
    through. .
    ..
    he’snott hesameman
    any mor e.
    ..
    he’ sbroken...
    .hesurvi
    v eddeathand
    heal sohadt ofighttocomehomet oyouand
    ther estofy ourfami ly
    ..
    ..
    evennowhe’ ssti
    ll
    try
    ingt oadj usttohi snewnor mal bei
    nghaving
    mul ti
    pleper sonalit
    iesthatmessuphi sli
    fe
    somet i
    mes. ..
    .deali
    ngwi thyourdeat handalso
    beingst rongf oreveryone...
    .he’
    sonl yhuman
    manandt hei ssomuchhecant ake
    *
    **Ri
    chi
    e’
    sghostl
    ookeddown*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    for
    giv
    ehi
    mforhur
    ti
    ng.
    ..
    what
    ’shername
    Kgosi
    :Di
    neo
    *
    **hesai
    dandsni
    ff
    edwi
    pinghi
    sface*
    **
    Alpha:Di
    neoandgiv
    ehim asi
    gnthatyou’
    re
    blessi
    ngthei
    runi
    onandconti
    nueprot
    ecti
    ng
    them
    Kgosi:i
    m sorrybr
    o..
    ..
    ilov
    eDi neowit
    hallmy
    heartandIpromisetolovethem
    uncondit
    ional
    lyandalsotakecareofherand
    Gauta
    Alpha:andstopmeddl i
    ngintheir
    affai
    rs.
    ..
    .coupl
    esf i
    ghtal
    ltheti
    me. .
    ..
    aft
    erthi
    s
    tal
    ky ouneedtor esti
    npeaceandl etDineo
    go...
    yourdaughterisi
    nsafehandsandy ou
    knowi tsorestandletyourbr
    otherhandle
    thi
    ngs...
    .whenheneedshel phe’
    llcall
    you
    Kgosi:
    andim gonnafindColli
    nsandaf t
    erim
    donedeali
    ngwithhi
    mi m gonnamar r
    yDineo
    andwegonnar ai
    seGaut atogetherbutIneed
    yourbl
    essi
    ngbro..
    .idon’twannafeelli
    keim
    bet
    rayi
    ngyoucauseColetol
    dmehowmuch
    youlov
    edorloveher
    ..
    ..
    atthesameti
    meIdon’
    t
    wannacompeteforher
    ..
    ..
    iwanthert
    obemine
    andminealone
    ***
    thensil
    ence..
    ..
    .t
    henKgosif
    eltahandor
    somethi
    ngt hatf
    eltl
    ikeahandonhisshoul
    der
    andhefroze***
    Alpha:
    rel
    axit
    shim..
    ..hesaysthat’
    sasi
    gnt
    hat
    he’sbl
    essi
    ngyourunionandthat.
    ..
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    snol
    ongerangr
    yaty
    ou.
    ..
    .
    Alpha:hesayshelovesyouandthaty
    oushoul
    d
    takecareofhisdaught
    erandbabymama
    ***
    Kgosi’
    stear
    sgushedoutandhecr
    ied
    pai
    nful
    l
    y***
    Alpha:andhesay saboutColl
    ins.
    ..
    hesayshe’
    s
    i
    npl ai
    nsight..
    ..
    hesaidyoushouldlookat
    obviousplaces..
    ..
    he’
    sri
    ghtunderyournose
    *
    **Kgosi
    wipedhi
    stear
    saf
    terhecal
    meddown
    andhefr
    ownedasRi
    chi
    epul
    l
    edhi
    shand
    back*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    sleav
    ing.
    ..
    *
    **Ri
    char
    dstart
    edwalki
    ngtowar
    dsthel
    i
    ghtbut
    t
    henhestoppedbuthedi
    dn’
    ttur
    n**
    *
    Alpha:hesay
    sgoodluckwi
    thDi
    neocause
    you’r
    egonnaneedi
    t.
    ..
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ookedatKgosi
    frowni
    ng*
    **
    Kgosi
    :whati
    sit
    Alpha:
    he’
    slaughi
    ngbusysay
    ingy
    ou’
    regonna
    needit
    *
    **t
    henRi
    char
    ddi
    sappear
    edi
    ntot
    hel
    i
    ght
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    sgone
    *
    **Kgosi
    gotup*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    let
    sgo.
    ..
    .r
    ememberdon’
    tlookback
    *
    **t
    heywalkedoutofthewoodsandgoti
    nsi
    de
    t
    hecaranddroveoff
    ***
    Alpha:
    okwhat’swr
    ongwithDineo.
    ..
    .whywas
    yourbrot
    herl
    aughi
    ngaty
    oulikethat
    *
    **Kgosi
    sighedbr
    ushi
    nghi
    sheadr
    oughl
    y**
    *
    Kgosi:
    she’
    scrazy
    ..
    .whenshefindsoutabout
    Botl
    haleal
    lhel
    lwi
    llbr
    eakloose
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    elaughedhi
    sassof
    f**
    *
    Alpha:
    wel
    lthengoodl
    uckcausey
    ou’
    regonna
    needit
    Kgosi
    :mxm
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    echuckl
    ed*
    **
    -
    --
    --
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    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER04
    .
    .
    .

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    NARRATED

    Jabu:y
    ousur eshewon’
    tremembert
    hatSbui
    s
    theonethatshother
    ***
    itsonl
    ynowhe’saski
    ngaboutherand
    whetherer
    asi
    nghermindwor kedornot
    ….he’
    s
    beendeali
    ngwit
    hhisdaughter’
    sdeatht
    hathe
    nevercar
    edaboutanyt
    hingelse*
    **
    Ray:Ruusaidshewon’t
    ..
    ..shewastoldt
    hat
    fakeChri
    sti
    anistheonethatsendpeopl
    eto
    shotherassoonasshewokeup
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    ok….Sohowdi
    dhermot
    hert
    aket
    he
    news
    Ray:
    shej
    ustcri
    edandemphasi
    zedonhow
    muchshewarnedherbl
    abl
    abla….
    .any
    wayyou
    good
    Jabu:aahI’
    l
    lbef
    ine.
    ..
    .howi
    sMj
    ,Ihear
    dhe
    brokehisl
    eg
    Ray:mxm thatmumu(fool)he’
    ll
    bef ine..
    ..
    MJi s
    tr
    oublesomeanddadcan’
    thandlehi m
    anymore..
    .assoonashefi
    nisheswr i
    tinghe’s
    comingthissi
    desoIcankeepacl oseey eon
    hi
    m
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Ray
    :nowonaser
    iousnot
    e….howar
    eyoudoi
    ng
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    taki
    ngi
    tonedayatat
    ime
    Ray
    :that
    ’sgood.
    ..
    that
    ’sgoodandSbuhowi
    she
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Jabu:he’sl
    ockinghi mselfinhi
    sr oom and
    doesn’
    ttalktoany one..
    ..
    .idon’
    tknowwhatt o
    doanymor eBigRay ..
    ..
    hegoest oseet he
    ther
    apistwegotf orhim andhej ustsi
    tsther
    e
    andsaynot hi
    ngunt ilt
    hesessionends…. i
    know
    I’
    vebeenupsentandsh! tbut….
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Ray:i
    m worr
    iedabouthim man.
    ..
    ..
    something
    needstobedonebeforehedoessomething
    badtohimself
    Jabu:y
    eah.
    ..
    .idon’
    tev
    enwannasithi
    m down
    andtal
    ktohi
    m causeitendsupi
    nafightso
    yah
    Ray
    :you’
    real
    sogoi
    ngt
    hroughal
    otman
    Jabu:
    evenMshi
    karohasf
    ail
    edt
    omakehi
    m
    tal
    korseet
    hatwhathedi
    dwaswrong
    Ray
    :al
    lwi
    l
    lbewel
    lbr
    os.
    ..
    Jabu:
    yeahI
    ’
    llbel
    i
    evei
    twhenIseei
    thappeni
    ng
    *
    **Raysi
    ghed.
    ..
    .wel
    ltheyt
    alkedsomemor
    e**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Theyj ustfi
    nishedeat i
    ngandnowKgosi
    wenttoliedownabi tandAlphalett
    eisinhi
    s
    Ndumba(ancest ralhut)medit
    atingwhenit
    suddenlybecamequi etandheslowlyopened
    hi
    sey escausehecoul dfeelhewasn’tal
    one
    anymore* **
    Al
    pha:
    Kokwanawaxi
    nuna(gr
    andf
    ather
    )
    *
    **hesai
    dbowi
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Granddad:
    Ukwihi
    ntukul
    uwamehewaxi
    nuna
    (whereismygr
    andson)
    Al
    pha:
    wihi
    Kokwana(whi
    chonegr
    andf
    ather
    )
    Gr
    anddad:
    ngwanawawehe(
    yourchi
    l
    d)
    *
    **Al
    phaswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Al
    pha:Unamananaway
    ehe(he’
    swi
    thhi
    s
    mother
    )
    ***
    thegrandf
    atherl
    ookedathi
    m andshookhi
    s
    head**
    *
    Gr
    anddad:Hi
    kokwal
    ahokayi
    niuhl
    weri
    sa
    Nt
    sakoheh?(whyar
    eyoudel
    ayi
    ngNtsako)
    Al
    pha:Ndzi
    tangut
    ivi
    saKokwana(I
    ’
    lli
    ntr
    oduce
    hi
    m gr
    anddad)
    Granddad:
    Usinyankar
    himan….
    .Ulav
    akov ona
    yi
    ni!
    !(youarewast
    ingti
    me.
    ..
    whatdoy ouwant
    t
    osee)
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaf
    ir
    mtone*
    **
    Alpha:Namet
    waKokwanandzi t
    angut
    ivi
    sa(I
    hearyougr
    anddadI
    ’
    lli
    ntr
    oducehi
    m)
    Gr
    anddad:
    daasr
    ighty
    isona(al
    ri
    ght
    )
    **
    *thenhedi
    sappearedandAlphal
    ett
    esi
    ghed
    r
    ubbinghisf
    ace.
    ..
    .hetookhi
    sphoneandmade
    acall
    ***
    Voi
    ce:
    Tiv
    ular
    hamehe(myf
    ir
    stbor
    n)
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Mhani(
    mom)howar
    eyou
    Mother
    :ngi
    yaphi
    l
    awenast
    handwasam (i
    m
    goodandyoumylov
    e)
    Al
    pha:
    rokur
    ixakumhani
    (im goodmom)
    *
    **hedidn’
    tsoundconv
    inci
    ng….
    .hesi
    ghed
    r
    ubbinghishead*
    **
    Ma:
    wenzeni
    (whatdi
    dyoudo)
    Al
    pha:
    Icomebear
    inggoodandbadnewsMa
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Ma:
    arey
    ousi
    ck?
    ?
    Al
    pha:
    Inev
    ergetsi
    ckMay
    ouknowt
    hat
    Ma:
    thenwhati
    sit
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    yourememberIt
    oldy
    outhatt
    he
    ancest
    orssai
    dihav
    eaboychil
    doutther
    e
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    Ma:
    yes.
    ..
    tel
    lmey
    ouhav
    efoundhi
    m
    Al
    pha:
    heact
    ual
    l
    yfoundme
    Ma:
    heh.
    ..
    .howol
    dishef
    orhi
    mtof
    indy
    ou
    Al
    pha:
    oney
    eart
    hreemont
    hsorf
    our
    Ma:
    heh
    Al
    pha:
    youknowt
    hemot
    herMa
    Ma:
    Ido?
    ??Who’
    sthat
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Imethert
    woy
    ear
    sagoandweummm.
    ..
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Alpha:yeahandIkickedheroutl
    ikeshemeant
    nothi
    ng...
    .it
    reat
    edherli
    kegarbageMa. ..
    .i
    wasn’tonther i
    ghtst
    ateofmind,itwasthat
    ti
    meIf oundoutaboutStevensandHel gasoI
    j
    ustwant edtooffl
    oadbutIendedupl eavingmy
    seedinher
    Ma:whyareyoubeat
    ingar
    oundt
    hebush.
    ..
    who
    i
    ssheNtsako
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    Ma:who’ sMasai.
    ..
    .ionl
    yknowtheMasaai
    peopleinKenya.
    ..
    ory oui
    mpregnat
    eda
    for
    eignerNtsako
    Al
    pha:
    imt
    alki
    ngaboutMasai
    ,St
    even’
    sfi
    ancé
    Ma:
    ithi
    uyadl
    ala(sayy
    ouar
    eki
    ddi
    ng)
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    im not
    ..
    .imj
    ustgl
    adshedi
    dn’
    tabor
    tma,
    Imeanshedidn’
    tevenknowwheretofi
    ndme
    andshest
    il
    lkeptthebabymakesheramazi
    ng
    i
    nmyey es
    *
    **hi
    smot
    herdi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Al
    pha:she’
    snotplayi
    ngusandshe’snot
    movingfr
    om onebrothert
    otheot
    hersodon’
    t
    behardonher
    Ma:sothat
    swhysher
    anawayt
    hatday
    …..
    .does
    St
    eveknow
    Al
    pha:
    yes
    Ma:nowonderhe’shar
    dlyhomesi
    ncet
    he
    engagementpar
    ty
    Ma:what
    ’shi
    sresponse.
    ..
    ihopey
    out
    wodi
    dn’
    t
    f
    ight
    Al
    pha:
    Idon’
    tknowIhav
    en’
    tspokent
    ohi
    m
    Ma:asifyouwouldmxm...
    .y
    azi y
    outwowi l
    lki
    l
    l
    mewi t
    haheartatt
    ack.
    ..
    .y
    hoy aqalai
    nkat
    azo
    manje(nowtroubl
    ehasstart
    ed)
    Alpha:
    Ididn’
    tpl
    anthi
    sMa...
    .imethertwoyear
    s
    agounli
    kehim whosl
    eptandimpregnatedmy
    thenfi
    ancée
    Ma:
    nowIseewhyy ou’
    ret
    ell
    i
    ngmeal l
    thi
    sov
    er
    t
    hephone.
    ..
    .mxm i
    mtoooldfort
    his
    **
    *thenshedroppedt
    hecal
    landAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    br
    eathedout*
    **

    I
    NKGOSI
    ’
    SBEDROOM

    Kgosi
    :whatdi
    dshesay
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Kgosi
    :di
    dsheaskaboutme
    *
    **Col
    ekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Kgosi
    :soshedi
    dn’
    t
    Col
    e:she’
    sstil
    labi
    toutofi
    tandshewas
    wor
    riedaboutGaut
    a
    Kgosi
    :whatdi
    dthedoct
    orsay
    *
    **hesai
    dchangi
    ngt
    het
    opi
    c**
    *
    Cole:she’
    sgonnabef
    ineandsowi
    l
    lthe
    pr
    incess
    Kgosi
    :that
    ’sgoodandhow’
    sGor
    ata
    Col
    e:she’
    sget
    ti
    ngdi
    schar
    gedt
    omor
    row
    Kgosi
    :that
    ’sgood
    Cole:
    andthepaw-pawwer ehereaski
    ng
    questi
    ons,t
    heyaskedGoratasomequesti
    ons
    andtheysaidt
    hey’
    llcometomorrowtotal
    kto
    Dee
    Kgosi
    :mxm t
    hosestupi
    dfool
    s..
    ..
    theycall
    edme
    onmywayhere.
    ..
    .nxasift
    hey’
    l
    lev ensearchf
    or
    Col
    li
    nsorf
    indhi
    m
    Col
    e:wewi
    l
    lfi
    ndhi
    m don’
    twor
    ry
    Kgosi
    :Ti
    rel
    osai
    dhe’si
    npl
    ainsi
    ght
    ..
    ..
    weshoul
    d
    l
    ookatobvi
    ouspl
    aces
    Col
    e:soy
    out
    wot
    alked
    Kgosi
    :yeahsor
    tof
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Kgosi
    :i
    twasintenseandscar
    yman.
    ..
    ..
    i’
    l
    ltel
    l
    youal
    labouti
    twhenwemeet
    Col
    e:damn
    Kgosi
    :IswearAl
    phawal
    oyaman.
    ..
    str
    uu(al
    pha
    i
    sawi zar
    d)
    *
    **Col
    elaughed*
    **
    Kgosi
    :Isweart
    oyou
    Col
    e:Ineedt
    oseet
    hisguy
    Kgosi
    :youwoul
    dn’
    ttel
    lhe’
    sasangomabutt
    he
    sh!
    thedoes
    *
    **hewhi
    stl
    edandCol
    elaughed*
    **
    Col
    e:soRi
    chi
    ebl
    essedy
    all
    *
    **Kgosi
    sighed*
    **
    Kgosi
    :yeah
    Col
    e:t
    hat’
    sgood.
    ..
    oohbef
    oreIf
    orgett
    heKi
    ng
    wasaski
    ngaboutyou
    Kgosi
    :I’
    llcal
    lhi
    m..
    ..
    howar
    ethi
    ngsatt
    her
    oyal
    homestead
    Col
    e:sadmfowethu.
    ..
    .Mmapul
    a’
    sdaught
    ersar
    e
    wal
    kingcor
    pses
    Kgosi
    :Mot
    lal
    epul
    amannotMmapul
    a
    Col
    e:si
    xnoni
    nekuy
    afana(samet
    hing)
    ***
    Kgosichuckl
    ed..
    ..
    anywayt
    heyt al
    kedsome
    moreunti
    ltheyendedthecal
    lthenAlpha
    knockedandwalkedin**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    youneedt
    ost
    artwi
    thmedi
    tat
    ion
    Kgosi
    :heh.
    ..
    mediwhat?.
    ..
    .idon’
    tdot
    hosey
    oga
    thi
    ngsnna.
    ..
    .i
    m astr
    aightdude
    Alpha:ei
    shyahneh.
    ..
    .i
    gnor
    antandf
    ool
    i
    sh
    peopleofhi
    ghstat
    us
    ***
    heshookhi
    sheadandwal
    kedi
    ncl
    osi
    ngt
    he
    door*
    **
    Kgosi
    :sesesalangim notdoi
    ngyogafi
    nish..
    ..
    gaketl
    odonosa( i
    m notabouttost
    ickmyass
    out
    )inquest
    ionabl
    epositi
    onsweari
    ngti
    ght s
    Al
    pha:
    oxeday
    ela.
    ..
    .xenamnam (y
    ou’
    reaf
    ool
    )
    Kgosi
    :tsek!
    !
    ***
    Alphal
    aughedsi
    tt
    ingont
    hebedsohecan
    expl
    ain**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    LORRAI
    NEMPOFU

    ***
    Itookadeepbreathasweappr oached
    Jabu’
    splacecauseIdon’
    tknowwhatt oexpect
    ,
    notfr
    om Sbusi
    sobutfrom Jabu.
    ..
    .ij
    usthopehe
    doesn’tki
    ckmeoutcauset hatwouldbe
    embarrassingandabummerf orSbucausehe
    soundedlikesomethi
    ngbigisbotheri
    ng
    him..
    ..
    thecarstoppedandtheuberdri
    ver
    tur
    nedandl ookedatme***
    Dr
    ivert
    hisi
    stheaddr
    essmam
    Me: y
    eahummm pleasewai
    tabitandl
    etme
    checkift
    her
    e’ssomeonei
    nsi
    de
    ***henoddedandIgotoutandwentcloserto
    thegateandpressedt
    heinter
    com..
    ..
    ri
    ch
    peoplesthi
    ngsinthet
    ownship.
    ..
    .mmmh* **
    Voi
    ce:
    yah
    *
    **oohLor
    dhe’
    shome*
    **
    Me:
    hii
    tsLor
    rai
    ne
    Jabu:
    heh?
    ?
    Me:
    umm i
    tsLor
    rai
    ne
    *
    **Isawt
    hegateopeni
    ng..
    ..
    ummm ohk.
    ..
    .iwent
    t
    othedri
    verandt
    hankedhi
    m whi
    l
    stpayi
    nghi m
    andItookoutmybagandwal kedin.
    ..
    .asi
    m
    appr
    oachingthedooritopenedandtherehe
    i
    s..
    ..
    damnhel ooksl
    ikesh!t*
    **
    Me:
    hi
    *
    **y
    oucanseehe’
    sshockedt
    oseeme*
    **
    Jabu:
    hey
    ..
    .comei
    n
    ***
    Iwal
    kedinandwewentt
    othel
    oungeandI
    putmyhandbagonmylapandmytr
    avel
    ing
    bagonthef
    loor
    ***
    Jabu:
    youl
    ookgood
    *
    **ummm ohk*
    **
    Me:
    thanks.
    ..
    .wel
    lyoul
    ookr
    ough
    **
    * hechuckl
    ed.
    ..
    .wowInev
    erthoughtwewould
    everbethisawkwardt
    owardseachother
    ***
    Jabu:
    li
    fehappened
    *
    **heshr
    uggedhi
    sshoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Me:
    im.
    ..i
    m sor
    ryf
    ory
    ourl
    oss
    *
    **IhopeIdon’topenhisheal
    i
    ngwounds.
    ..
    .wel
    l
    t
    hat’
    siftheyhavestar
    tedheal
    ing*
    **
    Jabu:
    sho
    *
    **t
    hensi
    l
    ence.
    ..
    ohkt
    hisi
    sawkwar
    dyho*
    **
    Me:
    ummm i
    m her
    etoseeSbui
    shei
    n
    *
    **hef
    rowned*
    **
    Jabu:
    umm y
    eah.
    ..
    why
    ..
    .i
    sev
    ery
    thi
    ngok
    Me:
    im aboutt
    ofi
    ndout
    *
    **hegav
    emeaconf
    usedl
    ook*
    **
    Me: hecal
    l
    edmesoundi nghurtorsad.
    ..
    .he
    askedmewheni m comingthi
    ssideandsinceI
    won’tbearoundbyt heweekendIthoughtI
    shouldcomet odayinst
    ead
    ***
    okwhyam Iexplainingmy sel
    fli
    kethi
    s..
    ..hi
    s
    motherwalkedi
    nfrom t hebackyar
    dwipingher
    handsandwhenherey eslandedonmeshe
    smiledwi
    delyandIreturnedthesmilegett
    ing
    upandwemethal fwayandhugged* **
    Ma:
    howar
    eyount
    ombi
    Me:
    ngiy
    aphil
    ama...
    ninani
    njani
    (im good
    ma.
    ..
    howareyou)
    Ma:
    mxm….
    *
    **shesai
    dshaki
    ngherheadl
    ooki
    ngsad*
    **
    Ma:
    aah….i
    mtaki
    ngi
    tonedayatat
    ime
    *
    **t
    henshel
    ookedatJabu*
    **
    Ma:di
    dyouof
    ferhersomet
    hingt
    odr
    ink
    Jabul
    ani
    Jabu:
    sheknowswher
    etheki
    tcheni
    sma
    *
    **wow.
    ..
    ohk.
    ..
    .hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngup*
    **
    Jabu:
    youcangocheckonhi
    minhi
    sroom
    Ma:
    Jabul
    ani
    !!
    !
    **
    *shewarnedhi
    m buthejustwal
    ked
    away.
    ..
    ohkIneedtoseeSbuandleav
    ethi
    s
    pl
    ace**
    *
    Me:
    letmegoseeSbuma
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Ma:
    don’
    tmi
    ndhi
    m..
    ..
    he’
    s.
    .
    Me:don’
    twor
    rymaIunder
    stand.
    ..
    letmegosee
    Sbu
    ***
    Isai
    dstoppi
    ngherandshenoddedl
    ooki
    ng
    sadandIwentup*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED

    ***Lor
    raineknockedonthedoorandSbut ol
    d
    hertocomei nthi
    nkingi
    tshi
    sgrandmotherand
    whenhisey esl
    andedonLorrai
    nehequi ckl
    y
    satuplookingathersur
    pri
    sed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:hi
    *
    **shewav
    edathi
    m br
    ief
    lywi
    thasmi
    l
    eonher
    f
    ace*
    **
    Sbu:
    you.
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    reher
    e
    Loll
    y:yeah.
    ..
    .y
    ougotmeworr
    iedsoIt
    ookt
    he
    fi
    rstfl
    i
    ghtavail
    abl
    ethi
    smor
    ning
    *
    **heswal
    l
    owedhar
    dget
    ti
    ngemot
    ional
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:canIsi
    t
    ***
    henoddedandshedi
    dthenshebr
    eat
    hed
    out**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y: what
    ’sgoingpapa..
    ..
    yousounded
    worr
    isomeov erthephone
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Sbu:
    Idi
    dsomet
    hinghor
    ri
    blesi
    si
    Lol
    l
    y:okumm howf
    aral
    ongi
    sshe
    *
    **Sbuf
    rowned*
    **
    Sbu:
    huh
    Lol
    ly:
    t hegi
    rly
    oui
    mpr
    egnat
    ed.
    ..
    howf
    aral
    ongi
    s
    herpregnancy
    *
    **Sbuf
    rownedsomemor
    ethenhi
    sface
    r
    elax
    ed*
    **
    Sbu:
    Idi
    dn’
    timpr
    egnat
    eany
    onesi
    s
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Lol
    ly:
    okt henwhatdidy
    oudopapa..
    .pl
    ease
    donttel
    lmey outr
    ieddr
    ugsSbusi
    so
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Sbu:
    Ial
    mostki
    l
    ledsomeone
    *
    **herey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    ni?(what
    )
    Sbu:IwasangryandIcoul
    dn’
    tcont
    rolmy
    anger.
    ..
    .al
    lIsawwasredsi
    siandIj
    ustwant
    ed
    herdead
    Lol
    l
    y:her
    ?
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:whoi
    sitSbu
    *
    **shesai
    dascal
    mlyaspossi
    ble*
    **
    Sbu:
    ma.
    ..
    .Amogel
    ang.
    ..
    .papa’
    swi
    fe
    *
    **Shef
    rozeabi
    t**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:whatdi
    dshedo
    *
    **hewaspl
    easedbyherquesti
    oninst
    eadof
    t
    ryi
    ngtor
    epr
    imandorjudgehim***
    Sbu:she’
    sthereasonLi
    l
    edi
    edandshe.
    ..
    .she
    for
    cedhersel
    fonpapawhenhewasdrunk
    *
    **herey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:pl
    easeexpl
    ainsoIt
    rul
    yunder
    stand
    ***
    Sbusi ghedandheexplai
    nedeverythi
    ngand
    bythetimehewasdonehewasacr ying
    mess...
    ..
    Loll
    yheldhimti
    ghtassheal socri
    ed
    unti
    lhewasl eftwi
    thonl
    yhiccups.
    ..
    .shewiped
    hertear
    sof fandki
    ssedhisfor
    eheadmul ti
    ple
    ti
    mes* *
    *
    Loll
    y:i
    tsokpapa.
    ..
    .i
    tsok.
    ..
    .i
    m her
    enowand
    every
    thi
    ngwill
    befine
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    *
    **Lol
    lyst
    ayedwit
    hSbuuntil
    hef el
    lasl
    eep
    t
    henshewentdownst
    air
    sandf oundJabu’
    s
    mot
    herwatchi
    ngtvwhi
    ledr
    inkingtea*
    **
    Ma:
    howi
    she
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandsatdown*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:br
    okenbutuzobar
    ight(he’
    l
    lbeal
    ri
    ght
    )
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Ma:
    butdi
    dhemanaget
    otal
    k..
    ..
    youknow
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ynoddedandJabu’
    smot
    hersi
    ghed*
    **
    Ma:
    hai
    kunzi
    ma(i
    tst
    ough)
    Lol
    l
    y:he’
    sgonnabeal
    ri
    ghtmamadon’
    twor
    ry
    Ma:haiIhopeso.
    ..
    icookedgoanddi
    shf
    or
    your
    sel
    f
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ygotupandwal
    kedt
    otheki
    tchen*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    SHALATE(HI
    LLS)

    ***Myl ifeneh..
    ..
    .anywayImadeanappoi ntment
    wi t
    hal awy erMoer ar ecommendedt omeandI
    hopehe’ l
    lhelpmegetoutoft hismar r
    iageeven
    thoughshesuggest edIwai tf orMat ocome
    from herov erseast r
    ipbef oreImakeany
    decisions. .
    ..
    Wel l
    Moer aandMasai ar
    eagainst
    memaki ngdecisionswhi l
    eim hurti
    ngl i
    kethi
    s
    causet heyknowIl ov eTarwi thmyal lbutit
    s
    notlikehej ustcheat ed,heal sowantt otakehis
    sidechi ckashi ssecondwi feandIcan’ thave
    that..
    ..
    i cantsharehim sosi ncet hedishis
    pregnantandIknowIcan’ tgiv ehi
    m achi l
    dthen
    I’
    ver atherremov emy selffr
    om t he
    equat i
    on. .
    ..
    .i
    m usedt opeopl ehur t
    ingmesoI
    shoul
    dhaveknownt hathe’l
    lal
    sohur
    tme..
    ..
    if
    myownmot hercanbr eakandfai
    lmedi
    smally
    thenwhywouldn’
    tTaral sodot
    hesame**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    hi
    ***
    Ijumpedst ar
    tledandmyhandi nst
    ant
    lywent
    tomychest .
    ..
    sh!tthi
    snikkanear
    lygavemea
    heartat
    tack**
    *
    Me:
    don’
    t….ev
    erdot
    hatok!
    !
    ***Isai
    dnotevenlookingathi
    m andcont
    inued
    searchi
    ngforaff
    ordableapart
    mentsi
    nceI
    stoppedwhenIfelldeepint
    omyt r
    ail
    of
    thoughts*
    **
    Tar
    :Ij
    ustgr
    eet
    edy
    ouShal
    e
    Me:
    hi.
    ..
    happynow
    *
    **i
    m st
    il
    lnotl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m..
    ..
    ineedt ost
    artt
    o
    l
    ear
    ntoli
    vewit
    houthi
    m st
    rai
    ght.
    ..
    .ineedt
    o***
    Tar
    : sothi
    ngshav
    egot
    tentothishuh..
    ..
    you
    di
    srespect
    ingmeli
    ket
    his.
    ..
    im st
    il
    lyour
    husbandShal
    ateandwi
    l
    lremai
    nonet
    il
    ldeat
    h
    *
    **mxm Ij
    usti
    gnor
    edhi
    m**
    *
    Tar:ngi
    khulumanawemanShal
    ate!
    !!(i
    m
    tal
    ki
    ngtoy oumanShal
    ate)
    *
    **br
    eat
    heShal
    e..
    ..
    deepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Me:respecti
    searnedTareknot
    demanded...
    .y
    ou’
    velostal
    lmyrespectsodeal
    wit
    hit
    *
    ***Isai
    dsti
    l
    lnotl
    ooki
    ngathim..
    ..
    il
    ovethi
    s
    manbuthebrokeme..
    ..
    idon’
    tthi
    nkI’
    l
    lev
    er
    r
    ecover*
    **
    Tar:soy ou’
    l
    lbeli
    ket hisunt
    ilwhen.
    ..
    .youdo
    knowsoonerorlatery ouhavetoacceptthe
    wayt hi
    ngsareandweneedt ofi
    ndcommon
    groundandmaket hingswork
    Me:
    you’
    redel
    usi
    onal
    shem
    *
    **Isai
    dtur
    ningmyheadt
    olookathi
    m**
    *
    Tar
    :aski
    es
    Me:
    thi
    s..
    ..
    *
    **Imov
    edmyhandsbet
    weenmeandhi
    m**
    *
    Me: di
    edwheny oudeci
    dedtocheatandgether
    pregnantandi
    tgotburi
    edwheny oudeci
    dedto
    takeherasthesecondwif
    e
    *
    **hecl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Me:I’
    ll
    neverfor
    giveyouTar
    ek.
    ..
    youj
    ust
    showedmehowy oureal
    lyf
    eel
    aboutme...
    .i
    guessyourmotherwasri
    ghtal
    lal
    ong.
    ..
    .shedid
    sayyou’
    lll
    eav
    emef orawomanwho’l
    lgiv
    ey ou
    achil
    dandithashappened
    *
    **Isai
    dwi
    pingmyf
    all
    i
    ngt
    ear
    s**
    *
    Tar
    :wewillnev
    erbeoverShal
    e..
    ..
    youaremy
    wif
    eanditshal
    lremai
    nli
    kethatunti
    ldeat
    hdo
    usapar
    t
    ***
    thenhewalkedaway..
    ..
    nxf3#khi
    m...
    hecan
    gotohell
    forall
    Icarenx.
    ...
    iwi
    pedmytearsoff
    andconti
    nuedtosearchforanapar
    tment*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    LORRAI
    NE

    ***im busyint heki t


    chenwar mi ngupmymi l
    k
    l
    ooki ngatmyphonef orthehundr edth’stime
    hopingandpr ay i
    ngt hatKennycal lsme. .
    ..imiss
    him butmypr idewontal lowmet ocallhim. .
    ..
    i
    hopeandpr ayt hatmecomi ngher ewi l
    lnot
    breakusup. ..
    .i hadt obeheref orSbuandi m
    gladIdidcauseIcoul dseehet r ustedme. ..
    .I
    meanhi sgrandmot hersaidtheysendhi mt o
    talktosomet her api
    sttheytrustedandhej ust
    wentt hereandsai dnothing,sot hef actthathe
    openedupt omemeanshet rust smeandi m
    gladIdidn’tl
    ethi
    m down..
    ..
    itur
    nedwhenIf
    elta
    fi
    gur estandi
    ngbythedoorandit’
    sJabu
    (sigh)*
    **
    Jabu:whatdi
    dyousayt
    ohi m..
    .t
    odaywast
    he
    fi
    rstt
    imehesatwit
    hussince….
    Me:
    Ijustl
    i
    stenedwi
    thoutbei
    ngj
    udgment
    al
    ***
    Isai
    dshr
    uggi ngmyshoul der
    sandt ookmy
    cupashewalkedf ur
    therin.
    ..
    iwalkedpassed
    hi
    m andIf
    elthishandst oppi
    ngme* **
    Jabu:Iheardyou’
    renowdat
    ingy
    ourex-
    husband’sbrot
    her
    *
    **hesai
    dlet
    ti
    nggoofmyupperhand*
    **
    Me:
    yeah.
    ..
    he’
    sthebestsof
    ar
    Jabu:obonagol
    exapwena(doy
    out
    hinki
    ts
    appropr
    iat
    e)
    *
    **si
    gh*
    **
    Me:
    appr
    opr
    iat
    eforwho
    Jabu:howsur
    ear
    eyout
    hathe’
    snot
    hingl
    i
    kehi
    s
    brot
    her
    Me:
    im notsur
    ebutwhoknowsmaybeIgot
    mar
    ri
    edtothewrongbr
    otheri
    nthef
    ir
    stpl
    ace
    Jabu:
    youdi
    dn’
    tjustsayt
    hat
    Me:whatisi
    tJabu.
    ..
    yesKennyi
    sBheki
    ’
    s
    br
    otherandyeswearedat
    ingandy
    esIlov
    e
    hi
    m
    Jabu:
    doy
    ou?
    ?
    *
    **hesai
    dgi
    vi
    ngmeani
    ntensel
    ook*
    **
    Me:
    yeahIdo
    *
    **hel
    ookedatmef
    orsomet
    ime*
    **
    Jabu:
    mmmmhi
    fyousayso
    ***
    thenhewentt owardsthefri
    dgeandIj ust
    walkedoutofthekit
    chen...
    .mxm whatsthat
    “mmhi fy
    ousayso”hej ustdi
    d..
    ..
    Jabucanbe
    ana$$somet i
    mesnx. ..
    theint
    ercom r
    angandI
    wenttoanswerit**
    *
    Me:
    kemang?
    Voi
    ce:
    Lor
    rai
    ne….
    baby
    ???
    *
    **myey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Me:
    Kenny
    *
    **hebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Kenny
    :im sor
    rypl
    easel
    etmei
    n
    Me:
    how….
    howdi
    dyou…
    Kenny
    :Ibookedusi
    ntoahot
    elIcamet
    opi
    ck
    youup
    *
    **“saywhatnow”
    ***
    Jabu:oblomahier.
    ..
    Sbuneedsyousochael a
    daimoegoeav aye….agonakooy angfi
    nish
    andkl
    aar(y ouarestayi
    ngher
    e….Sbuneedsy ou
    sotel
    lthatf
    ooltoleave….y
    ouaregoing
    nowhere)
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    THESEARECHAPTERS05AND9FORTHOSE
    WHODIDNTGETTOREADTHEM,REMEMBER
    THEYWEREDELETEDBYFACEBOOK.

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO!★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER05
    .
    .
    .
    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE
    NARRATED

    Lol
    l
    y:aski
    es?
    ?
    Jabu:you’
    reher
    eforSbusi
    sosoy
    ourl
    i
    ttl
    e
    boyfr
    iendcanwait
    *
    **Lor
    rai
    nej
    ustshookherhead*
    **
    Loll
    y:fi
    rstofal
    lyouhavenoright….
    absol
    utel
    y
    norighttotel
    lmeallt
    hatrubbishJabu….
    and
    secondlyIdonthavet
    osleepher et
    ohelpSbu
    Jabu:soyou’
    llchoosehi
    m ov
    erSbummmh.
    ..
    is
    thatwhati
    tis
    Lol
    l
    y:dontdot
    hat
    ….t
    hat
    slowev
    enf
    ory
    ou
    Jabu:whatsl
    owisyoufucki
    ngyourex’
    sbr
    other
    Lorr
    aine.
    ..
    howdesper
    atecanyoubehuh
    *
    **shesl
    appedhi
    m har
    donhi
    scheek*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:f
    #3ky
    ou
    *
    **t
    henshewal
    kedawaygoi
    ngupst
    air
    sleav
    ing
    himrubbi
    nghi
    scheekwi
    thasmi
    rkonhi
    s
    face*
    **
    Jabu:eysnai
    getawayf
    rom mygat
    ebef
    oreI
    cal
    lthecopsonyou
    Kenny
    :wher
    e’sLor
    rai
    ne
    Jabu:
    eyker
    ef#3kof
    far
    eyoudeaf
    ***
    Kennytookhisphoneandcal
    l
    edhert
    hen
    sheanswered*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    m comi
    ngl
    etmesaygoodby
    etoSbu
    Kenny
    :ok
    **
    *Thenhesighedandwentbackt
    ohi
    scarand
    wait
    edforher
    ***

    I
    NSI
    DETHEHOUSE

    Lol
    l
    y:I
    ’
    llcomeseey
    oubef
    oreIl
    eav
    eok
    Sbu:
    okt
    hanksf
    orcomi
    ngsi
    sLol
    l
    y
    Lol
    ly
    :youdontneedtot hankmepapa..
    .i
    ’l
    l
    al
    waysbethereforyouandr emember
    whenevery
    ouwantt otalktosomeoneI’
    mj ust
    aphonecallaway….
    .i
    tdoesntmatterwhatti
    me
    i
    tisyoucal
    lok
    *
    **Sbunodded*
    **
    Sbu:
    okIwi
    l
    l
    **
    *Theyhuggedagainandshekissedhis
    f
    oreheadandwalkedoutwithherbags….she
    walkedpassedJabusi
    tti
    ngintheloungeandhe
    f
    rownedwhenhesawt hebags**
    *
    Jabu:
    Lor
    rai
    ne….
    *
    **shei
    gnor
    edhim andsheopenedt
    hegate
    t
    hensheopenedthedoorandhechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:soony
    akakor
    apel
    emmh(y
    ouwantme
    tobegyoummh)
    *
    **Shei
    gnoredhi
    m andwal
    kedal
    lthewayt
    o
    t
    hegate**
    *
    Jabu:
    LORRAI
    NE!
    !!
    !
    ***heshout edaf t
    erherbutshej ustwal
    ked
    outsidet hegateandKennyt ookherbagsand
    putt hem ont hebackseatandt heygotinsi
    de
    thecarandKennydr oveoffleavi
    ngjabu
    standi ngtherelooki
    nglikehe’sabouttobust
    out…. heturnedandf oundhismot herst
    anding
    byt hedoorandshej ustshookherheadand
    walkedi nsidethehouse* **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TWOWEEKSLATER

    MASAI

    **
    *Ihonestl
    ydon’tknowwher
    eStevensandI
    st
    and..
    ..
    ihaven’
    tspokent
    ohim si
    ncethatday
    andhe’ shasn’tev entri
    edcalli
    ngme. .
    ..
    ireall
    y
    l
    ov ehim andIpr ayt hatwewor kthi
    ngsoutand
    fi
    ndcommongr oundwi t
    hAl phal
    ett
    ewi th
    concernst oKhai ..
    ..
    Anotherthi
    ngim wor ri
    ed
    aboutHi l
    ls,what ’
    shappeningt oherispure
    selfi
    shnessf r
    om herhusbandandknowi nghow
    muchshel oveshi m Ibetshe’sgonnast ayin
    thatmar r
    iageandt akeallt
    heshitthatcomes
    withit.
    ..
    ..
    event houghshesay sshewant sa
    divorceIknowdeepdownshedoesn’ t,she
    l
    ov esthatbastar d***
    Me:
    Ist
    il
    lthi
    nksheshoul
    dcal
    lMa
    **
    *Isayt
    oMoer
    a, aswepr
    epar
    eour
    sel
    vesf
    or
    workint
    hemor
    ning**
    *
    Moer a:y
    eahIthinksheshoul
    dtoo..
    ..
    knowing
    Hil
    lsTarisgonnasweettalkherandmanipul
    ate
    herintoagr
    eeingtobeinapolygamous
    marriage
    Me:
    buti
    fthat
    ’swhatsher
    eal
    l
    ywantwehav
    eto
    suppor
    therwhet
    herwel
    i
    kei
    tornot
    Moer a: I
    ’
    llonlysuppor therifshereal
    lywant sto
    bepar toft hatcircusandnotbecauseshe’ s
    forcedt oort hatshe’sscaredtolivewithout
    him...
    .gapeTar ekismani pul
    ati
    veandt hinksthe
    wor l
    dr evolvesaroundhi m oritoweshim
    somet hingnxa
    ***
    shedoesn’
    tli
    kehi
    m..
    .wel
    lshedoesn’
    tli
    ke
    anyonet
    obehonest*
    **
    Me:
    webot
    hknowHi
    l
    lsl
    ovest
    hatmanMo
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:yeahthat
    ’sthesadpartaboutt
    hewhole
    thi
    ng.
    ..
    .iknowshedoesn’tevenmeanitwhen
    shesaysshewant sadivor
    ce
    Me:
    eish.
    ..
    lov
    eisaf
    #ck#dupt
    hingneh
    Moer
    a:that’
    swhyaf
    terAl
    exIswor
    etonev
    er
    l
    oveagain
    *
    **Ij
    ustr
    oll
    edmyey
    es*
    **
    Me:
    welll
    oveisabeaut
    if
    ult
    hingMoi
    fyoumeet
    t
    heri
    ghtper
    sontoshar
    ethatlov
    ewi
    th
    Moer
    a:y
    eahr
    ight
    ***sheroll
    edhereyest henwehear daknockon
    thedoorandshewal kedout .
    ..
    .if
    ini
    shedupand
    wenttoseewhoi ti
    s, i
    tsprobably
    Alphalet
    te..
    ..
    he’
    spickingKhai,hesaidhewants
    tospendt hedaywithhi m (eyeroll
    )**
    *
    Moer
    a:l
    ookwho’
    sher
    e
    Me:
    hi
    Al
    pha:
    hey
    ..
    .yougood
    ***Ijustnodded.
    ..
    .i
    m st
    il
    lsur
    pri
    sedthatIhavea
    childwithamanl i
    kehim,iminti
    midat
    edby
    him...hehasthatt
    hingman..
    .t
    hatbonechil
    li
    ng
    thi
    ng* **
    Moer
    a:l
    etmebr
    ingAJ
    ***
    Irai
    sedmybrowather,whydoesshelook
    happytoseeAl
    phal
    ett
    e..
    .hecl
    ear
    edhisthroat
    si
    tt
    ingdownont
    hecouchandIj
    oinedhi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Itol
    dmymot
    heraboutAJ
    ***
    Ijustlookedathim sur
    pri
    sed,
    Idi
    dn’tt
    hink
    he’
    lltel
    lhisparent
    saboutKhaisosoon**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whydoy
    oul
    ookedsur
    pri
    sed
    Me:umm Ithoughtyou’
    l
    lprobabl
    ydoaDNA
    t
    estfi
    rstbef
    oretel
    li
    nganyone
    Al
    pha:
    whywoul
    dIdot
    hat
    ***okwhyishefrowningl
    ikethat
    ..
    .any
    wayIjust
    shrugmyshoulders,
    Imeanpeopl edoDNA
    testswhentheyfi
    ndouttheyhavekidsout
    theretheydi
    dn’
    tknowabout *
    **
    Alpha:
    lookAJismysonandIdon’
    tneedDNA
    test
    stoprovet
    hat
    **
    *probablyhi
    sancest
    orst
    oldhim AJi
    s
    hi
    s..
    .well
    im guessi
    ngt
    heydid*
    **
    Me:
    ok.
    ..
    .ummm hav
    eyout
    alkedt
    oyourbr
    other
    Al
    pha:
    whywoul
    di
    *
    **y
    hobat
    hong*
    **
    Me:causemeandhi
    m ar
    edat
    ingandIhav
    ea
    chi
    l
    dwi t
    hyou
    Moera:
    sowhatdoesyoudati
    ngthatr
    ott
    en
    guav
    ahavet
    odowi t
    hAJ’sfather
    *
    **oohGosh.
    ..
    wassheeav
    esdr
    oppi
    ng*
    **
    Moera:hehasn’tcal
    ledyoumaybebecausehe
    hasmov edonsost opaski
    ngabouthis
    whereaboutsf
    rom hisbrot
    her
    ..
    ..
    it
    ’scl
    eart
    hey
    don’
    tgetalongjeez
    Al
    pha:
    soy
    oudon’
    tli
    kehi
    m
    *
    **hesai
    dtaki
    ngasl
    eepi
    ngAJf
    rom her
    ***
    Moera:yeahthatusel
    essthi
    ngoncebeatherup
    andsincethenIstar
    tedhati
    nghi
    m
    ***
    bat hongMoer
    awhyi
    sshet
    ell
    i
    nghi
    m my
    businessli
    ket
    hat**
    *
    Me:hesl
    appedmeonceMoera..
    .whyar
    eyou
    makingi
    tseem l
    i
    kehe’
    sabusi
    ve
    Moera:may beyoudeserv
    et obeslappedor
    evenbeatentoapulpthatyoulandin
    hospit
    al.
    ..
    .whotal
    ksli
    kethatMasai..
    .abuseke
    abuse..
    ..
    ican’
    tbel
    iev
    ey oujustsai
    dthat
    **
    *shethrewKhai’sbagr oughlyatmeand
    walkedawaylookingangryorisithur
    t
    (
    sigh).
    ..
    .Al
    phal
    ettejustt
    ookt hebagfrom me*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    bri
    nghi
    mlat
    er
    ***
    thenhewal kedoutl
    ooki
    ngpi ssedand
    l
    eavingmef eeli
    ngli
    kesh!
    t.
    ..
    .Moer athenwal
    ked
    outofherbedroom andshepickedherkeys
    fr
    om thetable**
    *
    Me:
    Mo
    Moer
    a:f
    #tsek!
    !!
    ***
    wow...
    thenshewal
    kedout.
    ..
    .iswal
    lowed
    hardandwenttomybedroom andtookmy
    phoneandmadeacal
    l
    ***
    Stevens:
    wowandsher
    emember
    sme.
    ..
    ..
    done
    f#ck#ngmybr
    other
    *
    **whatt
    heact
    ual
    f#!
    k**
    *
    Me:wowStev
    ens.
    ..
    .andwhatst
    oppedy
    ouf
    rom
    cal
    l
    ingme
    ***
    im notgonnaentert
    ainhi
    sstupi
    dand
    unfoundedaccusat
    ionsnxa***
    St
    evens:
    whatdoy
    ouwantMasai
    **
    *hesai
    dcoldl
    yandIswal
    l
    owed.
    ..
    youknow
    what
    ..
    .f
    #!kt
    hisshi
    t**
    *
    Me:It
    hinkweshoul
    d...
    .br
    eakup.
    ..
    imeant
    his
    t
    hingbetweenusi
    s..
    ..
    Stevens:wait.
    ..
    .y
    out hi
    nkwear est
    ill
    a
    thi
    ng...
    ..
    I’
    velongmov edont oawomanwi thout
    baggage. .
    .y
    ouwer eneverwomanenoughf or
    meany way sandf oryourinf
    ormat
    ion..
    ..
    real
    womenwearheel sgirlynotpumpsorallstars
    andsandals..
    ..
    whydoy outhi
    nkI’venevertaken
    youtodecentplaces,causeyou’
    renot
    decent.
    ..
    infactyouandthatLechankane
    brot
    herofmi nedeserveeachother.
    ..
    ..l
    osemy
    numbersledi fl
    apsekaremogoduobar eng
    morothwana!!

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    MOERA

    ***i
    m busyonmyof fi
    cecomput ertypinga
    reportthatisneededbef oretheendoft he
    day..
    ..
    .Thet hi
    ngi sidonthat emyjobbut
    reporti
    ngtor i
    chA- hol
    eswhosi ttheirbutt
    sall
    daydoi ngnothingwhilei workmaya$$of f
    makesmedet estmyj ob..
    ..
    theonl
    yr easoni
    haven’tfal
    lenv i
    cti
    mt omybosses’ lustful
    advancesi sbecauseofmyghet toattit
    udeand
    myv i
    lemout h..
    ..
    .manygi r
    lsherehav efallen
    victi
    m andim gl adim notoneoft hem cause
    thathandsomer i
    chA- hol
    eisasnackt r
    uthbe
    told.
    ..
    .myphoner ingsandIhopei tsnotmy
    bosscauset hathandsomesh! tyA- holeli
    ke
    calli
    ngmet ohi sof fi
    ceevenf orusel essthings
    hecoul d’
    vesai dov erthephonemxm. ..
    .isigh
    whenIseet hatitsmyt wi
    nMasai ,asmuchas
    i
    m st i
    llpi
    ssedatherbuti cantst aymadather
    forlongsor eceivehercal l
    ***
    Me:
    Masai
    *
    **Ihearhersi
    gh*
    **
    Masai
    :i
    m sor
    ry
    *
    **Ij
    ustrol
    lmyeyes.
    ..
    .iknowshealr
    eadyhas
    t
    earsrunni
    ngdownhercheeks,she’
    sacrybaby
    t
    hisone***
    Me:
    itsok
    Masai:i
    tsnotMo.
    ..
    .whydoIal
    waysdat
    e
    abusi
    vejer
    ksandwhenIbreakupwi
    ththem
    theyinsultmeusingthingsiminsecure
    about .
    ..
    .whenim st
    il
    ldati
    ngthem theypretend
    tolikethem butonceIbreakupwiththem for
    treati
    ngmel ikesh!
    ttheysayhurtf
    ulthingsto
    me
    ***
    shesaidcr
    ying.
    ..
    .okwhatt
    hehel
    l
    happened*
    **
    Me:
    arewet
    alki
    ngaboutSt
    evensher
    e
    *
    **Ihear
    dhersni
    ff
    ***
    Me:
    Sai
    ???
    Masai
    :Ibr
    okeupwi
    thhi
    m
    ***
    f#!k.
    ..
    ..t
    hanksGosh.
    ..
    .y
    hoshem hef
    inal
    l
    y
    heardmypr ayer
    s**
    *
    Me:okandwhatdi
    dhesayt
    omakey
    oucr
    yli
    ke
    t
    his
    Masai
    :aremyf l
    apsokar
    emorothwanawa
    mogoduandthathel
    ongmovedon...
    .ar
    eIdon’
    t
    hav
    eclasst
    hat’
    swhyhehasnevertakenmeto
    decentplaces.
    ..
    ..
    hewasmeanMoandhebr
    oke
    myhear t
    ***
    shesniff
    edagain..
    ..
    i knowhowi nsecureshe
    i
    saboutherf l
    apsandt hef actthatStevensaid
    whathesaidIknowherconf i
    dencewentdown
    awholelotofnotches.
    ...iswearim gonnadeal
    wit
    hthatpieceofsh!t.
    ..
    .he’salsogonnapay
    nxa**
    *
    Me:m#r#t
    agae.
    ..
    .w#nyelanxa.
    ..
    .iswearhe’
    s
    gonnar
    egr
    eteverinsul
    ti
    ngyounxa
    *
    **shecriedovert
    hephone.
    ..
    oohmysofty
    t
    win..
    ..
    ihatei
    twhenshe’shur
    tli
    ket
    his*
    **
    Me:don’
    tcr
    yMasa.
    ..
    .isaygoodr
    iddent
    obad
    r
    ubbish
    *
    **shesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Masai:i
    m sorr
    yaboutwhatIsai
    d..
    .i
    m sur
    eev
    en
    Alphal
    ett
    et hi
    nksim somenaï
    vegir
    lwho
    defendsherabuser
    Me:Itol
    dyoutostopcaringaboutwhatpeople
    sayaboutyouMasa.
    ...
    il
    ongt ol
    dy outo
    embraceyouri
    mperfect
    ions.
    ...
    .nooneisper
    fect
    *
    **t
    hedooropenedandi
    nwal
    kedt
    heA-
    hol
    e**
    *
    Me:bonaMasaIhav etogoI’
    l
    lcheckonyou
    l
    aterandnodepressi
    onthi
    sti
    mear oundorel
    se
    i
    m gonnapai
    ntthistownredwit
    hsomeone’s
    bl
    ood
    *
    **Isai
    dthatl
    ooki
    ngatmyboss*
    **
    Masai
    :he’
    snotwor
    thi
    tev
    ent
    houghi
    thur
    tsso
    bad
    Me:
    that
    ’smygi
    rl
    ..
    .okl
    ateraker
    e
    Masai
    :yeah
    Me:
    Ilov
    eyoumyot
    herhal
    f
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oot
    winni
    e
    *
    **thenIdr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landcl
    ear
    edmy
    t
    hroat*
    **
    Me:
    canIhel
    pyouwi
    thsomet
    hingsi
    r
    Him: whenIwal kinyoudropthecall
    ..
    ..
    iwi
    l
    lnot
    waitforyoutof i
    nishgossi
    pingwithwhoev
    er
    youwer egossipingwit
    h..
    .t
    imeismoneyandI
    don’tappreci
    atebeingkeptwait
    ing!!
    ***
    hesai
    dallt
    hatwi
    thaser
    iousf
    aceandt
    one
    andIsi
    ghed*
    **
    Me:
    im sor
    rysi
    rIpr
    omi
    sei
    twon’
    thappenagai
    n
    ***hecli
    ckedhistongueandwal kedout.
    ...
    mxm
    A-hol
    e!!
    !ifonl
    yheknewt hatI’
    m onlyhereto
    gainexperi
    ence,t
    hat’
    sallI
    ’m her
    ef or
    ..
    ..
    itook
    myphoneandwentt omycont actsandImade
    animportantcal
    l*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    mchana
    Me: himal
    ome..
    .ketl
    ofetakowenaafter
    work..
    ..
    kebat
    lagoovalewenakasomet hi
    ng
    (I’
    l
    lcomebyy ourpl
    aceaft
    erworkIneedtotal
    k
    toyouaboutsomethi
    ngimport
    ant)
    Voi
    ce:
    ok
    ***
    thenIdroppedt
    hecal
    landpoppedmy
    knuckl
    es**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(ALPHALETTE)
    Al
    pha:
    andnou….
    whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ***
    hesaidasMpandesatdownsl
    owl
    ylooki
    ng
    pal
    ewithdryl
    i
    ps**
    *
    Mpande:
    eishbaf
    oIdi
    dntsl
    eepawi
    nkl
    ast
    ni
    ght
    Al
    pha:
    whywhathappened
    Mpande: af
    tery
    out oldmeaboutMasaibei
    ng
    yourbabymama…. .igotmadatmadlozi
    andI
    tookisnuff
    ,chi
    ll
    iesandhotwateri
    nacupand
    ngayophahl
    angazo(andIwentt otal
    ktothem
    usi
    ngt
    hem)
    *
    **Al
    pha’
    sey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Al
    pha:sayy
    ouj
    oki
    ngmf
    owet
    hu.
    ..
    youdi
    dntj
    ust
    dothat
    ***
    helookedfreakedoutcauseheknowsy
    ou
    dontdothat
    ..
    .ever**
    *
    Mpande: ehhngabatshelaudotiamadlozi
    ….nga
    bakgwelangegal a.
    ..
    egr eenesuur(ehhIt old
    them sh!
    ttheancestors….Ivomitedgal….
    a
    greenandsourone)...
    ishould’
    veknownt hey
    willr
    etal
    i
    atemxm cowar ds
    ***hegroanedashisst
    omachmadefunny
    noisesandAlphal
    ett
    eputhi
    shandonhi
    sface
    shakinghi
    sheaddefeat
    ed**
    *
    Mpande:Imeanhowcany ourancestorsmake
    t
    hingshappenforyoumfowet hujustl
    ikethat
    mmmh…. yourbabymamai sy ourchosenone
    whil
    eminaIhavetoslaughteracoworagoat
    f
    orthem ortogobathinri
    verthathas
    i
    Nkany
    ambaf
    ort
    hem t
    odosomet
    hingsi
    mpl
    e
    f
    orme
    Al
    pha:
    thi
    sisnotacompet
    it
    ionMpande
    Mpande: Iknow...iknowok…. i
    m noti na
    compet i
    tionwithyouandnev erwillbeIj
    ust
    hav eaproblem witht hem nj
    e…..i
    m gatvol(im
    done)wi t
    ht hei
    rslowpacemi na….iwant
    Moer a….
    theyshoul dmakeherf al
    lfor
    me. .
    .ngi
    funaukushadat hi
    syear(Iwantt oget
    mar ri
    edthisyear).
    ..howcant heyletmehav ea
    threesum withsist
    er skhantii
    sntitthei
    rjobto
    protectmeaar gman
    ***
    Alphashookhi sheaddef eated..
    .Mpandeisa
    speci
    al case..
    .hewant edt otell
    himt hathe’s
    beenmadeawar ethathe’ sbackingatt he
    wrongt ree,t
    hatheshoul dt akeast epbackwi t
    h
    concernst ohisloveinterestbutt henMpande’s
    mothersuddenl yappear edinf r
    ontoft hem and
    sheshookherheadno* **
    Woman:
    dontt
    ell
    him….
    lethi
    mlear
    nthehar
    d
    way
    ***
    thenshedi
    sappearedandAlphasighed
    l
    ookingdown….he’
    susedtoseeingdeadpeople
    appear
    ingi
    nfrontofhimli
    kethi
    sespecial
    lyhi
    s
    ancest
    ors*
    **
    Alpha:sowhydoy oul
    ookt
    hispal
    e..
    .what
    happenedlastni
    ght
    Mpande: i
    sisubafo.
    ..
    eish….
    kuniningi
    gooda(my
    stomachbro….im havi
    ngar unnystomach).
    ..
    i
    cantevenfeelmyassh#l e,
    itsbur
    ningstr
    ong
    mf owet
    hu..
    .ievenseebloodwhenIwi pe
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ookedathi
    mthenhebust
    edoutwi
    th
    l
    oudl
    aught
    er**
    *
    Mpande:
    eish
    ***hesaidget
    tingupandputti
    nghishandon
    hisassasher antothet
    oil
    et….whenhegotto
    thetoi
    lethedi
    dntevengetachancet ocl
    ose
    thedoor,al
    lAl
    phalett
    ehear
    di shim gr
    oani
    ng
    l
    oudlyandotherdi
    stur
    bingsoundsandAlpha
    l
    aughedstandingupandhewentt ocl
    osethe
    doorforhi
    m***
    Mpande:i
    yhooo….
    iy
    hoooo….
    eishngi
    yaf
    a
    mfowethu(i
    m dyi
    ngbro)
    Al
    pha:
    apol
    ogi
    zet
    otheancest
    ors
    Mpande:haimfowet
    huIneedtostandmy
    gr
    oundforthem t
    oseethatImeanbusi
    ness
    Alpha:thengoodainpeacemf o.
    ..
    iwonderhow
    youev enarr
    ivedher
    ewithoutsh!t
    ti
    ngon
    yourself
    Mpande:
    iyhoooo….
    iy
    hoooo….
    iy
    hoooo
    ***Alphalett
    ejustl
    aughedandheleftt
    omi
    x
    someher bsforhimtodr i
    nkt
    hatwil
    lst
    opt
    he
    runnyst omach….aft
    erhewasdonehewent
    backandf oundhim si
    tt
    ingonthest
    oop
    shirt
    less***
    Al
    pha:
    phuza(dr
    ink)
    ***
    Mpandet ookthecupanddrankwit
    houtev
    en
    askingwhathe’
    sdrinki
    ngthenhemadea
    di
    sgustedfacecausetheconcussi
    oni
    s
    bi
    tter*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    our
    eadyt
    oapol
    ogi
    ze
    Mpande:eish.
    ..
    yah….
    iseet
    heyar
    e
    angr
    y..
    .ei
    sh..
    .mya$sjoh
    Alpha:
    y ou’l
    lnev
    erbebiggerthanGodandyour
    ancest
    or sMpande…..
    theyalwayshaveawayof
    doingthingsandweneedt oacceptt
    hat
    Mpande:mxm theyar
    eluckyi
    m notwi
    tht
    hem
    ov
    erther
    eorelse
    Al
    pha:
    Mpande!
    !!
    *
    **hewar
    nedhi
    m**
    *
    Mpande:ei
    shy
    ahi
    zwi
    l
    eindl
    ebebaf
    o(t
    heear
    hashear
    dyou)
    Alpha:howcanyouinsul
    tyourancestor
    sli
    ke
    thatnawe….
    yourl
    ategrandf
    ather.
    ..
    thesame
    manthatleftyoual
    lthef
    leetoft
    axi
    syounow
    ownallbecauseofawoman
    Mpande: IthinkIhav ef allenf orher …. she’smy
    wifeandi tsnotaboutMoer anj ebaf oIal way s
    havet ofightt ogett hings….al way s…. Mkhulu
    l
    eftenemi est hathav emademenowt heir
    tar
    getandhedoesn’ tev enmaket hem atl east
    for
    getaboutmesoIcanenj oymyi nher it
    ance
    i
    npeace…. i
    ’m alway slooki ngov ermyshoul der
    andIdon’ tevenknowwher et heirbeefst arted
    orwhatt heywer eact ual l
    yf i
    ght ingf or...
    ngif
    ela
    i
    zonozi kaMkhul u..
    .i
    m notev enenj oy ingmy
    i
    nher i
    tancecausei t
    sbul letsl eftrightand
    center..
    .deadbodi esbl ahbl ahbl ah...ai
    ngikhathel ebafo(i mt iredbr o)
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:IgetyoumanandIunder standbutdoi
    ng
    whaty oudidisnottheanswer….
    remember
    everyt
    hinghappensf orar
    easonMpandeand
    youmusthav efait
    honGodandy our
    ancestors….remembert hei
    rdelaysar
    enott
    heir
    denialsmf owethu….
    twoy earsI
    ’vebeent
    ort
    ured
    andpuni shedfornotli
    steningandnowIf i
    nall
    y
    seelightattheendoft hetunnel
    Mpande:
    luckyy
    ou
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:nawethei
    sli
    ghtatt
    heendoft
    het
    unnel
    butyou’r
    etoobli
    ndt
    oseeit
    Mpande:
    myl
    i
    ghti
    sMoer
    a
    Al
    pha:
    ory
    ourdownf
    all
    *
    **Mpandef
    rowned*
    **
    Alpha:I’
    mj ustsaying….maybeyou’
    reat t
    racted
    toherwi ldanddanger ousper
    sonal
    ityand
    may bet hat’snotthekindofwomany ouneedi n
    yourli
    febutheyut hi y
    ou’r
    esureabouthert hen
    l
    etsf i
    xt hingswi t
    hboGogonaboMkhul uby
    apologizingandcl eansingghandel
    or abona
    (thesacr edpl acewher ehephahl
    a/talksto
    them)….i
    m suretheyhav ehear
    dy ou….mat i
    ako
    belanaberebereaswi t
    langimfo….im surebate
    chachamelalabarekokonamar abakwat ekofa
    (hotwaterandchi l
    l
    iesisnotchil
    dpl aybro.
    ..
    im
    suretheyarefeel
    ingtheheatwher evertheyare
    butalsomad-angry)….
    andt hat
    ’snotgood
    *
    **Mpandechuckledthenhequi
    ckl
    ygotupand
    r
    aninsi
    dethetoi
    let*
    **
    Al
    pha:dontworrythi
    sisthel
    astt
    imeonya
    (y
    ou’l
    lsh!t
    ).
    ..
    wheny oudonegoandbathand
    wewil
    lleaveforyourpl
    ace
    Mpande:
    iyhooo….
    iy
    hoooo….
    iy
    hooo
    Alpha:
    ongatl
    angelivokokwana….ot
    ateny
    ela
    bhut(donteverunderesti
    mateyour
    ancest
    ors….
    you’l
    lshityoursel
    fbr
    o)
    *
    **hel
    aughedwal
    ki
    ngaway
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    NARRATED(MOERA)

    ***knockofftimecameandasshe’ sbusy
    packingherthings,herheartstar
    tbeati
    ngfast
    al
    l ofasuddent henshef ell
    spaininonher
    heart.
    ..
    shesitsdownabi tasthepainsubsi
    des
    ri
    ghtthenherphoner i
    ngsashermi ndwentt
    o
    hertwinsist
    erMasai ..
    ..
    beforeshecananswer
    herheartski
    psabeat* **
    Moer
    a:he.
    ..
    hel
    l
    o
    Woman:
    hii
    sthi
    sMoer
    a..
    ..
    Masai
    ’
    stwi
    nsi
    ster
    Moer
    a:y
    es.
    ..
    .what
    swr
    ongwi
    thher
    ..
    ..
    issheok
    *
    **shesai
    dpani
    cki
    ng*
    **
    Woman: thi
    sisMeisieIworkwit
    hy our
    si
    ster.
    ..
    .y
    oursist
    erwasgetti
    ngreadytoleav
    e
    asitsknockofft
    imewhenshesuddenl yhel
    d
    herchestandcoll
    apsed.
    ..
    .wecal
    ledan
    ambul
    anceandt
    heyar
    ebusywi
    thher
    **
    *Moer
    ajustcl
    osedherey
    esasherhands
    st
    art
    sshaki
    ngandherhear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast**
    *
    Moer
    a:i
    s..
    ..
    issheal
    i
    ve
    Meisi
    e:y
    e..
    .y
    est
    hepar
    amedi
    cssai
    dshe’
    sst
    il
    l
    al
    i
    ve
    Moera:ok.
    ..
    ummm t el
    l t
    hem t
    otakehertoa
    pri
    vat
    ehospitalandpleasegowi
    thheryou’
    l
    l
    sendmey ourlocat
    ion
    Mei
    si
    e:ok
    Moer
    a:t
    hanky
    ou
    ***t
    heyendedt hecallandMoer aquickly
    grabbedherthingsandl eftbumpingi ntoher
    bossbythecor ri
    dorbutshej ustrushedpassed
    hi
    ml eavi
    ngthebui ldi
    ng...
    .She’snowdr i
    vi
    ng
    whenherphoner eport
    samessageandshe
    opensherWhat sApp,i t
    sMei si
    esendi ngher
    herlocat
    ion.
    ..shejustcont i
    nuedtodr ive..
    ..
    her
    phoneri
    ngsandshequi
    ckl
    yanswer
    sthi
    nki
    ng
    i
    tsher*
    **
    Moer
    a:hel
    l
    o
    Al
    phalet
    te:
    heyi
    tsAl
    phal
    ett
    ewher
    eisy
    our
    si
    ster
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thawor
    ri
    edt
    one*
    **
    Moera:Ijustgotacal
    lfr
    om oneofher
    coll
    eaguesbar eshecol
    lapsedandshewas
    takentothehospit
    al
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:shi
    t.
    ..
    whi
    chhospi
    tal
    ***
    Moerat
    ell
    shim andt
    heyendt
    hecal
    lthen
    shecal
    l
    sheruncl
    e***
    Uncl
    e:mchana
    Moera:LumeMasaii
    srushedtothehospit
    also
    i
    mr ushi
    ngther
    eIwontbeabletocomet oday
    Uncl
    e:whathappened.
    ..
    issheok
    Moer
    a:IsuspectLupus.
    ..
    shewashur
    tand
    cr
    yingsoIt
    hinki
    tgott
    ri
    gger
    ed
    Uncl
    e:damni
    t.
    ..
    .whoorwhathur
    ther
    Moer a:that’sthereasonIwascomi ngtosee
    you.
    ...mpy aengwebar engkeSt ev
    ensbr oke
    herhear t.
    ..
    .amor ogakamapel eandevensaid
    somehur tf
    ul thi
    ngs..
    ..
    y ouknowhowsof tand
    easi
    lyhur tMasai isLumesoshet ook
    everythi
    ngt ohear t
    ...
    .Mpy aelewasev en
    cheatingonher .
    ..
    .isweari m gonnakil
    l
    him..
    ..oneoft heseday sl ekase
    motlhabele. .
    ..
    .heoncebeatherupandIl eti
    tgo
    causeneamor atabutt histi
    mei m gonna
    makehi mt astemywr ath
    Uncle:
    cal
    m down..
    ..
    .wewi
    lldealwi
    thhim wena
    betheref
    orherandwhenshe’sbet
    tercome
    andseeme
    Moer
    a:okMal
    ome
    Uncl
    e:shap
    Moer
    a:shap
    **
    *theyendedthecal
    landshecont
    inuedt
    o
    dr
    ivewithherj
    awsclenched*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    **
    *Moeraisbusypacingupanddownint
    he
    wait
    ingar
    eawhenAl phal
    ett
    ewalksi
    nandhead
    st
    rai
    ghttoher**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    She’
    sgonnabeokcal
    m down
    Moera:youdontknowthat….sheoncesuf
    fer
    ed
    amildheartat
    tackAl
    phalett
    ewhatifshe
    doesntmakeitthi
    sti
    me
    Al
    pha:
    trustmeshewi
    l
    l
    ***
    shesighedandsatdownfeel
    i
    nghel
    pless
    andAlphasatnextt
    oher**
    *
    Moer
    a:wher
    e’sAJ
    Al
    pha:
    wit
    hmymot
    her
    Moer
    a:she’
    scool
    right
    ….
    Al
    pha:
    who
    Moer
    a:y
    ourmot
    her
    Al
    pha:
    yeah
    *
    **t
    henhechuckl
    edl
    i
    ght
    ly*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    sheevencr
    iedwhenshesawhowmuch
    hel
    ookli
    keme….l
    i
    kemylatefat
    her
    *
    **Moer
    anodded*
    **
    Al
    pha:yousai
    dsheoncesuf
    fer
    edami
    l
    dhear
    t
    at
    tack
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whathappened
    *
    **Moer
    asi
    ghed*
    **
    Moer
    a:shehasachr
    oni
    cdeceasecal
    l
    edLupus
    Al
    pha:
    huh?
    ***
    hethenkeptqui
    etabi
    t.
    ..al
    lheheardi
    s
    chroni
    cwhichmeanswhatevershehasi
    snot
    curabl
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’s.
    ..
    what
    sthat
    Moer
    a:i
    tsani
    nfl
    ammator
    ydecease….
    .itmakes
    t
    heimmunesyst
    em t
    oatt
    acksi
    tsowntissues
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    owned*
    **
    Moer a:itscanaf fectthejoi
    ns, skin, kidneys,
    bloodcel ls,
    brain,heartandl ungs…. itsbasi cal
    ly
    oneoft hedanger ousdeceasesoutt hereand
    mostpeopl edon’tknowabouti t
    …..itsasi lent
    ki
    llerAlphalette….i
    tsachr onicdeceasewi thno
    cure….Yest here’
    st r
    eatmentandt hatt r
    eat ment
    cani mpr ovehersy mpt omsbutshemi ghtget
    fl
    ueandheri mmunesy stem fightst hev ir
    us
    andi nsteadofst oppingwhent hef luev ir
    usi s
    gonei tcontinuest ofightandendsupat tacking
    hertissuesdamagi ngherki dney s,hear t,l
    ungs
    andsof ort
    handshedi es….
    sobasi cal
    l
    y
    ever
    ydaycoul dbeherlast
    …..t
    hisisaf uckedup
    worl
    dandwecantst oppeoplefrom being
    mean,rudet oher
    ….herbossmi ghtshoutather
    orshemi ghtfi
    ghtwit
    hhercolleaguesorher
    boyf
    ri
    end
    *
    **shesi
    ghedcal
    mingher
    sel
    fdown*
    **
    Moer a:shemi ghtwat
    chasadmov ieandcri
    es
    herey eball
    soutanditgetstri
    gger
    ed….she
    mightgetupsetatourgov ernmentandhow
    theyar efai
    li
    ngourcountryandourpeopleand
    i
    tget stri
    ggeredsobasicall
    yevery
    daycouldbe
    herlast
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    shandst
    oget
    her
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    whatupsethert
    hist
    ime
    Moer
    a:y
    ourusel
    essbr
    other
    *
    **shesai
    dbr
    eat
    hingheav
    il
    y**
    *
    Moer
    a:t
    hatsonof
    ….Thatbast
    ardi
    nsul
    tedher
    andevensworeatherusi
    ngher
    i
    nsecuri
    ti
    es….
    .hecal
    ledheral
    lsor
    tsofnames
    andIsweartoGodhe’sgonnapaydear
    lyfor
    that
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ecl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Iknowyou’
    reupsetbuti
    m aski
    ngy
    outo
    l
    etmehandl
    ehim….i
    ’
    lldealwi
    thhi
    m myown
    way
    *
    **Shest
    oodupshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Moer a:nope..
    .ineedt
    oteacht hatt
    hingyoucall
    abrot heralessontoneverevermesswi thher
    ….
    Ionlygothimr oughedupwhenhehi therbut
    thi
    stimear oundhe’sgonnalearnthehardway
    Al
    pha:
    Moer
    a…
    Moer a:mymindismadeup….
    i’
    l
    lhandlehim
    my self
    …..y
    oucanwarnhi
    m ornotIdontcare
    oksalayoI’
    l
    ldeal
    wit
    hhim myway
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ookedatherandhecoul
    dtel
    lshe
    meansit….
    hesighedshakinghi
    shead…he
    coul
    dtellt
    hatt
    hisgir
    lisdanger
    ous….
    she’
    snot
    j
    ustyouraver
    agegirl
    ***
    Al
    pha:wel
    lhe’
    smybr ot
    herandI
    ’
    llhav
    etowar
    n
    hi
    mf ormymother
    ’ssake
    Moera:
    dowhaty
    ougot
    tadoandI
    ’
    lldowhatI
    got
    tado
    Al
    pha:just
    ….don’
    tki
    ll
    him….Rememberhe’
    s
    st
    il
    lyournephew’
    suncle
    **
    *sher
    oll
    edherey
    esandsatdownt
    henshe
    si
    ghedl
    oud**
    *
    Moer
    a:khant
    hewhat
    staki
    ngt
    hem t
    hisl
    ong
    *
    **af
    tersometi
    meadoctorandanur
    sewal
    ked
    t
    othem andt
    heyqui
    ckl
    ygotup**
    *
    Doct
    or:Masai
    Rapul
    a’
    sfami
    l
    y
    Moer
    a:she’
    smysi
    sterandhe’
    sherbabydaddy
    Al
    pha:
    hermannotj
    ustbabydaddy
    *
    **Moer
    arai
    sedaney
    ebr
    owl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Moer
    a:si
    ncewhenabut
    i
    Al
    pha:
    howi
    ssheDoct
    or
    *
    **heaskedt
    hedoct
    ori
    gnor
    ingher
    ***
    Doctor:
    y es.
    ..uumm she’sgonnabef i
    ne,she
    j
    ustsufferedapani cattackwhichledhert o
    col
    lapseandi m gl
    adthepar amedicswheret ol
    d
    aboutherhav ingLupuscauset hathelpedalot
    i
    ntopreventingahear tattackfr
    om happening
    *
    **Moer
    asi
    ghed*
    **
    Moer
    a:soshe’
    sgonnabeal
    ri
    ght
    Doct or
    :y esbutsheneedstotakei teasy …. i
    knowi tsnoteasyav oi
    dingcertai
    nt hingst hat
    mightt r
    iggerherLupusbecauseshe’ shuman
    afterallandshe’sshar
    ingthi
    sGodf orsaken
    wor l
    dwi thotherhumanwhol iketopr ov oke
    otherpeopl ebutsheshouldjustav oidst ressf
    ul
    si
    tuat i
    ons,takehermedicati
    onandt akeherdi et
    ser
    iousl
    yandj
    ustav
    oiddr
    ama
    Moer
    a:Iheary
    ouDoc
    Doctor
    :wecantdischargehernow….I’
    dli
    ket
    o
    keepherf
    orthenighttomonitorherLupust
    o
    seeifi
    twi
    llgett
    ri
    ggeredagainornot
    Moer
    a:ok
    Al
    pha:
    canweseeher
    Doct
    or:
    ofcour
    senur
    seher
    ewi
    l
    ltakey
    out
    oher
    ward
    Al
    pha:
    ok
    Moer
    a:t
    hanky
    ouDoc
    **
    *theDoct
    orsmi
    l
    edatherandhewal
    ked
    away**
    *
    Nur
    se:
    thi
    sway
    Moera:
    goonl
    etmecal
    lmymot
    herandsi
    ster
    I
    ’l
    lj
    oinyou
    *
    **Al
    phanoddedandhef
    oll
    owedt
    henur
    se
    whi
    leMoer
    asighedandshesatdownand
    madeacal
    l*
    **
    .
    .
    .

    TOBECONTI
    NUED…
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO

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    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER09

    TSHI
    MOLOGO

    ***I’
    m si tt
    ingher el ookingatt hi
    smanand
    askingmy selfwhatt hehel lam i doi ng….what
    hasgot tent ome. .
    .whot hehel ldoIt hi
    nkI
    am…. Imeany esIdopr ophesypeopl eher eand
    therebutt hat’swher ei tendsbat hong, not
    this….Asf ort hisman, Ihavet ri
    edpour ingwater
    onhi sf acet hinkinghewi ll
    wakeupbut
    dololo...
    not hing…. al
    lIknowi she’sst i
    ll
    aliv
    e….
    Wel litookof fhisbaggydi rt
    yandst i
    nking
    clothes andwhatIsawhasl eftme
    traumat izedt ot hecor e,theguy ’sd#ckwas
    standingf irmi nfactitsstil
    lstandi ng
    fi
    rm. .
    .mmmhy epy ouhear dmer ight .
    ..
    IknowI
    shouldn’ tbesay ingthisbuthe’ sal iveifyou
    knowwhatImeanandi t
    shuge…. thesear ethe
    kindofguyst hatwoul dripy ournanaapar t
    dur i
    ngseximt ell
    you…. I
    tsananacondat hat
    thingandIhav enev erseeni tbef ore,l
    etmej ust
    sayIhav enev erdatedany onewi ththatkindof
    anacondabef or e….I
    m stilltr
    aumat ized.
    ..
    li
    ke
    whowal ksar oundwi t
    ht hatki ndofheav y
    machi nebathong…. li
    keisn’ti theav y.
    ..
    umt hwalo
    wakheawumsi ndiyinili
    keMaZul uwoul d
    say .
    ..
    yho(claponce) …yhohai Tshimostop
    talki
    ngaboutanot herchild’spr ivat
    epar t
    s
    mahn….

    Anywayim nowcl eani


    nghi sbodyandt hewater
    i
    m usi
    ngtocl eanhim ekar eseret senow
    (cl
    ay)….
    itookt hedir
    tywat eroutsideandwent
    todi
    sposeofi tandpour edanothercl eanwarm
    oneandwentbackt ohim andIcont i
    nuedto
    washhisbodyagai n.
    ..
    Shem y enahe’ snotdark
    asinl
    ikedarkhewasj ustdirt
    ybat hong..
    .hi
    s
    col
    orlooksniceonhi m andt het at t
    oos
    compl i
    menthisskincolornicel
    y….okTshimo
    concentrat
    e….concentr
    atemogi r
    l….y
    hoev en
    thisfacemaskI ’
    m wearingisnothelping,
    kganthewhenl astdi
    dt hisguybath
    bathong….any
    wayIknowoncehe’ sthoroughl
    y
    cleanhe’l
    lsmellbett
    er….

    PhweewI m nowdonewi ththef rontsoIt ur


    n
    him sohel aysonhi sfrontandt hehuget attoo
    ofat i
    gercov eri
    nghiswhol ebackcat chesmy
    eye..
    .okthet at
    toosonhi sarmsandneckdi dn’
    t
    shockmebutt hisone...nope…. ev enitsey es
    l
    ooksr eallikei
    tslookingi nt
    oy oursoul ….okI ’
    m
    exaggeratingbutnoman….Any wayi tsnice
    shem butcr eepyatthesamet ime…. OkI’m
    donenowsoI ’
    m putti
    ngl oti
    ononhi sbodyand
    hisd#cki sgetti
    nghar derandhar derand
    harder.
    ..
    yhot hi
    sisnotonbat hong, Iknow
    anotherwomandoi ngt hiswoul dl ikeseei ngall
    thi
    sbuty hohaenotme…. wait.
    ..whati fhe’s
    pretendi
    ngtobepassedout ….
    whatif….
    outof
    thebluehishandgr i
    psmi neti
    ghtandheopens
    hiseyesandl ooksatmewi thascaryfrownon
    hisface…..
    .t
    hescream thatcomesoutofmy
    mout hpeople…..
    i’
    m scr
    eami ngtr
    yingtogetout
    ofhisholdwi t
    hmyhear treadytostoppumping
    bloodwhenhi sgripl
    oosensandhepassesout
    again***

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    NARRATED

    JABU

    ***
    He’sonhi
    swayt oKZN….he’
    srest
    lesswith
    what’
    sbeenhappeni
    ngbetweenhim and
    Lol
    ly….
    it
    snotsi
    tt
    ingwell
    withhi
    m….af tersi
    tt
    ing
    downandanal y zi
    ngt hesi tuationhenowsees
    thathemesseduppr ettybad…. .
    Thet reatment
    he’sbeengi vingheri swr ong, him andLor raine
    hav ehadagoodf riendshi pf orav erylongt ime
    andonet i
    met heyev engav etherelationship
    thingachanceandagai nhewast heonet hat
    messedt hi
    ngsupt hi
    nki nghi snotgoodenough
    forherandnowhehasdonei tagainandt hi s
    ti
    mear oundhecr ossedt hel i
    nepr ettybad…. he
    doesn’tknowhowshe’ llrecei vehim andhow
    ser i
    ousherr elat i
    onshi pwi t
    ht hatguyKenny
    i
    s…. Yeshe’snotr eadyf oranyr omant ic
    relati
    onshipandev ent houghi twashar dto
    acceptt hatLol l
    yhasmov edonandshe’ sev en
    distantbutshecantmov eonwi th
    Kenny ..
    .Never!!!“het hought ”
    ….Af terHeat htold
    himt hekindofbusi nesst hisKennyguyi si nto
    heknewheneedst osav eLol l
    yagai nfrom
    har mswayl ikehedi dy ear sback…. Hisphone
    ri
    ngsandi t
    sRuu. .
    .hef r
    ownsbutanswer s
    any way***
    Jabu:
    didy
    oucal
    lmebymi
    stakewi
    zzy(
    wizar
    d)
    *
    **Rusl
    ansi
    ghed*
    **
    Ruu:
    whatar
    etr
    yingt
    odoJabs
    Jabu:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutnowRuu
    Ruu:
    gobackhome
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    Icant
    Ruu:yougonnamesst
    hingsupmor
    ethant
    hey
    al
    readyare
    Jabu:
    Ineedt
    otr
    yatl
    eastman….
    nothi
    m..
    .i
    ref
    use
    Ruu:
    ifnothi
    mthenwho….
    .y
    ouandhi
    m ar
    ethe
    same
    Jabu:haehheyhaeh….
    dontcompar
    emewi
    th
    thatsonofb#t
    chRusl
    an
    Ruu:
    youdot
    hesamewor
    k
    Jabu:
    mfowet
    hu.
    ..
    don’
    tcompar
    emewi
    tht
    hat
    f
    ool
    **
    *Hesaidwi
    thaf
    ir
    mvoi
    ceandRusl
    an
    si
    ghed*
    **
    Ruu:yougonnaputheri nabadsi tuat
    ion
    Jabs….youabouttomessupherl i
    feandy ou
    don’
    tknowwhatt hatguyi scapableof….
    for
    oncecanty ouputherfi
    rsthuh….canyoujustlet
    herenjoythiswhi
    leitl
    ast
    ***
    Jabuclenchedhi
    sjaws….
    ther
    e’snowayi
    n
    hel
    l“hethought”
    ***
    Jabu:Imaynotber
    eadyforhernow….butt
    he
    ancestor
    ssai
    dshe’
    sminetohave..
    .f
    orever
    Ruu:Idon’tli
    kethischosenonebullshit
    anymorecausei tmakesf ool
    sli
    key out hi
    nkyou
    owny ourchosenones…. youdon’
    t….just
    becauseshe’sy ourchosenonedoesn’ tmean
    she’
    sgonnaf al
    lony ourl
    apandyou’llli
    ve
    happil
    yeverandaf ter….
    other
    sdon’tev enend
    upwiththeirchosenonesbecauset heybehav e
    l
    ikeyou…..y
    ouhadachanceandyoutr
    eatedher
    l
    ikesh!tandnowthatanot
    hermanhastaken
    overyouwannaactli
    keRambo
    Jabu:
    fut
    seknxa
    ***
    thenhedr oppedthecallandhisphonerang
    againandhei gnor
    edit….
    itrangagainandhe
    sti
    l
    lignoredi
    tandcont i
    nuedt odr
    ivethenan
    smspi ngedandher eadit
    ***
    Ruu:“youbett
    eranswerthatdamnphoneorI
    ’l
    l
    sendLaParcaorSaintt
    oy ouri
    ghtnowandim
    notpl
    aying”
    Jabu:
    AAAAHHHH.
    ..
    MOTETAORUSLANMAN
    NXA!!
    !
    **Hi
    sphonerangagai
    nandhebr
    eat
    hedout
    andanswer
    ed***
    Jabu:
    keng(what
    )
    Ruu:
    apol
    ogi
    ze
    Jabu:
    forwhat
    Ruu:
    imlooki
    ngaty
    ounowandIknowy
    ou
    swor
    eatmenowapologi
    ze
    Jabu:
    looki
    ngatmef
    rom wher
    e….
    how
    **
    *hesai
    dlooki
    ngar
    oundandhecoul
    dntsee
    hi
    m***
    Jabu:
    Rusl
    an
    Ruu:
    apol
    ogi
    ze!
    !!
    ***
    hesaidwi
    thaf
    ir
    mvoi
    cet
    hatgav
    eJabut
    he
    chi
    ll
    s**
    *
    Jabu:
    eish….
    shapge(ok).
    ..
    Im sor
    ryf
    or
    swear
    ingatyouman….i
    m sorr
    y
    *
    **si
    l
    ence*
    **
    Jabu:haar
    deman….st
    opbei
    ngl
    i
    ket
    hatI
    ’
    m
    apol
    ogizi
    ngbosso
    Ruu:
    mxm
    *
    **Jabubr
    eat
    hedoutt
    hensi
    l
    ence*
    **
    Jabu:
    forr
    eal
    im sor
    ryman
    Ruu:whyar
    eyouaf
    rai
    dtol
    oveherandmake
    hery
    ours
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Ruu:youcantstandherwit
    hanothermanno
    matterhowgoodorbadt hemanisbutatt
    he
    samet i
    mey oudontwanther….
    tel
    lmehow
    doesthatworkman
    Jabu:
    im gonnahur
    therman
    Ruu:
    andwhosai
    dyou’
    reper
    fect
    ….ofcour
    se
    youwil
    l
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Ruu: yourl
    ifeismessedupman…. andy es
    you’reinnostatetostar
    taromant ic
    relat
    ionshi
    pnow…. you’
    resti
    l
    l i
    naheal i
    ng
    processandy ourdivor
    cewithAmoi ssti
    llbei
    ng
    processed..
    .igeti
    tokItotal
    l
    ygeti tbutthat
    doesntmeany oushouldhurtthepoorgirland
    treatherli
    ketrashandalsomessupherl i
    fe
    andl oveli
    fe
    Jabu:
    he’
    snotgoodf
    orhermanIcanf
    eel
    it
    Ruu:
    nomanwi
    l
    lev
    erbe
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Ruu: f
    ixthingsbetweeny outwo...
    makeher
    tr
    usty ouagain….healherbrokenhear t
    ,theone
    youbr okeandmakey oursel
    fhersaf espacenot
    allt
    hisRambobul l
    sh!tyou’
    vebeendoi ng….be
    betterthattheguyshe’snowdat i
    ngandwat ch
    cracksf r
    om thei
    rrelati
    onshipstartshowing
    whiley ouhealandfixyourselff
    orherar ri
    val
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    dspeechl
    ess*
    **
    Ruu:
    don’tf
    ightthefoolanddon’
    tfi
    ghther
    ….I
    ’
    ll
    bewatchi
    ngy ouclosel
    y
    *
    **t
    henhedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Jabu:
    eish
    ***
    hebrushedhishai
    randbeardf
    eel
    inghotal
    l
    ofasudden….hi
    sphonerangagai
    nandthi
    s
    ti
    meitwasHeat h*
    **
    Jabu:
    eishMshi
    kar
    o
    Heat
    h:wher
    ear
    eyou.
    ..
    ij
    ustgoty
    ourmessage
    Jabu:
    onmywayt
    oKZN
    Heat
    h:hi
    ster
    ri
    tor
    yJabu.
    ..
    arey
    oucr
    azy
    Jabu:
    rel
    ax
    Heath:heyfut
    sek..
    .dontt
    ellmenonsense….
    iget
    i
    tyou’r
    egoingthroughsh!tbutsui
    cide
    Jabu..
    .r
    eall
    y
    Jabu: ebansuici
    deyaengnou(whatsui
    cide
    now) ….doIlookl
    ikeIqual
    if
    ygonnasf
    #besa
    satane(t obesatan’
    sb#tch)….
    Heat
    h:et
    senakaeeobyanong(whatdoest
    hat
    gott
    odowithanyt
    hing)
    Jabu:aker
    eobol
    elakadisui
    cide(y
    ou’
    rebusy
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutsui
    cides)
    Heat
    h:whatt
    hef
    #ckar
    eyougoi
    ngt
    odot
    her
    e
    Jabu:
    toseeLol
    l
    yandal
    sodosomebesi
    ghei
    d
    (busi
    ness)
    *
    **Heat
    hsi
    ghed*
    **
    Heat
    h:i
    veal
    readyconcl
    udedt
    hatguydoesnt
    l
    ikey
    ou
    Jabu: andkamony anyal
    enna(Ihatehi
    m
    too).
    ..wanyontsha(hemakesmesi ck)
    ..
    .o
    mf erol
    adibete….wanshi
    shi
    misa(hedisgust
    s
    me) ….ont
    latsaphinya(hemakesmeangr y)
    Heat
    h:andy
    ou’r
    egoi
    ngt
    her
    etopokeasnakei
    n
    i
    tshol
    eMjava
    Jabu:
    daimanganyal
    aLor
    rai
    ne(t
    hatmani
    s
    notmarr
    iedt
    oLor
    rai
    ne)
    Heat
    h:y
    oukeepsayi
    ngt
    hatasi
    fyouar
    ethe
    onemarr
    iedt
    oher
    Jabu:
    madl
    ozi
    are(ancest
    orssay
    )she’
    smy
    wif
    e
    Heat
    h:nowiseegor
    ewaikut
    lwi
    saka(it
    syour
    f
    ir
    stti
    mewit
    h)thi
    schosenonethi
    ngandyou’
    re
    goi
    ngov
    erboar
    dnow
    Jabu:t
    sek….
    takecar
    eofmysonunt
    ilIget
    back….
    shap
    Heat
    h:besaf
    eandcal
    lforhel
    p
    Jabu:akesnaij
    oh(im notaf
    ool
    ).
    ..
    icant
    ake
    careofmysel
    f.
    ..
    shap
    ***
    theyendedt
    hecallandJabusi
    ghedand
    conti
    nuedtodr
    ive*
    **

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    THEREI
    NEKEHOUSEHOLD

    NARRATED

    *
    **St
    evenswal
    ksi
    nwhi
    stl
    i
    ng*
    **
    MrsRei
    neke:heyheynoti
    nsi
    demyhousej
    ou
    bl
    eksem!!
    !!
    ***hechuckledandfol
    lowedhi
    smot her’
    svoi
    ce
    tothekitchenandhesawsomebabyt oysby
    thelounge,hefrownedandgoti
    nsi
    det he
    kit
    chenandhef oundherbaki
    ng***
    St
    evens:
    thehousehol
    dqueen
    *
    **heki
    ssedhercheek*
    **
    Ma:
    heybaby
    St
    evens:
    Isawbabyt
    oysi
    nther
    e,wasNkaher
    e
    ***
    hesaidopeni
    ngt
    hef
    ri
    dgeandt
    aki
    ngout
    bott
    ledwat
    er***
    Ma:nope….
    youknowHel
    gawi
    l
    lnev
    erbr
    ingNka
    her
    ehersel
    f
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    St
    evens:
    thenwho’
    stoy
    sar
    ethose
    Ma:
    Alpha’
    sson
    St
    evens:
    what
    ..
    ***hest
    oppeddri
    nki
    ngwaterf
    rom thebot
    tl
    e
    andhefrownedl
    ooki
    ngathismother*
    **
    Ma:yep….hebroughthim her
    e..
    .goshhel
    ooks
    l
    ikehi
    m…. heremindedmeofAl phawhenhe
    wasstil
    lababy..
    .icantbel
    iev
    eit….Al
    phai
    sa
    f
    ather….
    final
    l
    y
    *
    **shesai
    dsmi
    l
    ingbusymi
    xi
    ngherdough*
    **
    Stevens:youbroughtthatbast
    ardi
    nsidemy
    father’
    shousema…. howcany oudi
    srespectmy
    fatherl
    ikethat
    !!
    !
    **
    *MrsReinekest
    oppedwhatshewasdoing
    wit
    hafrownonherfaceandfacedSt
    evens*
    **
    Ma:whatdi
    dyouj
    ustcal
    lmygr
    andson
    Let
    lamor
    eng
    St
    evens:
    asonofabast
    ardi
    sabast
    ardand….
    ***
    ahardslapl
    andedonhischeekl
    eavi
    nghis
    cheekcov
    eredwit
    hflour
    ….t
    henshetookthe
    bowl
    witheggs,v
    anil
    laandmi
    l
    kmi
    xtur
    einsi
    de
    andt
    hrewitathi
    sface**
    *
    St
    evens:
    MA!
    !!
    !
    Ma:GETOUTOFMYHOUSENOW BEFOREI
    MOURNYOURSTUPI
    DDEATH….
    STUPIDBOY!
    !!
    St
    evens:
    youhi
    tt
    ingmebecauseofhi
    m ma
    Ma:St
    evensIsai
    dgetTHEF#CKOUTOFMY
    HOUSE!
    !!
    *
    **St
    evenschuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    St
    evens:
    dadwi
    l
    lknowaboutt
    his
    Ma: andy outhinkim scar edofy ourfather….l
    et
    met ellyousomet hingaboutmeboy …..
    yousee
    al
    lthis..
    .thi
    smoneyandal lthi
    ssh! tdoesn’t
    mov eme…. ev eni
    fIl eav eyourf
    at herempt y
    handedIhav easont hathaswor kedhar dfor
    everysh!theowns. ..i
    ’l
    l neverl
    ackany t
    hing,a
    sonwho’ snotat rustf undbaby ….nowi m sick
    andt i
    redofal waystaki ngsh!tfr
    om y ouand
    yourfatherthi
    nkingukut hiIcantmakei t
    withouthim….bothy ouandNt sakoar emy
    babies….igavebirt
    ht oyout wo…. ir
    aisedy ou
    two….y ourhatetowar dshimi suncal l
    edf or
    Letlamoreng….Yout reathiml ikeIdidn’tgiv
    e
    bir
    thtohi m..
    .whatdidheev erdot oyou
    huh…..whydoy ouhat ehi mt hismuch…. you
    camef rom thesamewombf orGod’s
    sake….yousuckedont hesamebr east s!
    !!
    Stevens:heshouldn’texist….ishoul
    dbeyour
    fi
    rstsonandnott hatusel essShangaan…..
    you
    alwaystakehisside!!!
    !youj umpt hr
    oughhoops
    forhim andIhateit….he’
    sawi tchandhe
    shouldn’texi
    stonthiswor ld….youshoul
    d’
    ve
    abortedhim andIwoul dbey ouronl
    yson
    ***
    anot
    herslaplandedonhi
    sfaceandt
    ear
    sran
    downhischeeks***
    Ma:
    getoutofmyhouse.
    ..
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    tht
    ear
    srunni
    ngdownher
    cheeks*
    **
    Stevens:t
    hisismyfat
    her’shousesoI’
    m not
    goinganywhereandthatbastar
    d’schi
    l
    dshould
    neverstepfoother
    eagain!!
    !
    ***
    shechuckl
    edwipi
    nghertear
    soffandshe
    wenttowashherhandsandwalkedt
    othe
    door*
    **
    Ma:fineI ’
    l
    lleavecauseIcantstayinthesame
    houseasy ou….i
    tsyourfat
    her’
    shouseangisho
    andknowi ngy ourfat
    herhe’l
    lj
    usti
    fyyour
    behaviorandhur t
    fulwordssoI’
    lll
    eavemt wana
    kaStev ens
    ***shewalkedoutandSt ev
    ensswallowed
    hard..
    .heheldontothecounterwit
    hhisj aws
    clenched….hehasneverexchangedwor dslike
    thiswithhi
    smot herandseeingherhurtlike
    thatbecauseofhim hurthi
    m buthecanthel p
    i
    t….hehatesAlphalet
    te***
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    NARRATED

    TSHI
    MOLOGO

    ***She’ ssitt
    ingout sidest i
    llshakenbywhat
    transpiredear l
    i
    eron…. .
    afterthewhol egrabbing
    scenesher anout sidescr eami ngandt henext
    doornei ghboraskedwhat swr ongr eadytouse
    hiswhi stletocallforhel pbutTshi mol i
    edand
    toldhert hatitwasaspi dert hatfreakedherout
    andi tlookslikeshebel i
    ev edher ….shehasn’ t
    gonei nsidesincet henandnowshe’ s
    afraid…..whydidshehel phi m, sheev encal l
    ed
    i
    nsi ckf rom wor kforahomel essmant hat
    mi ghthar m her….Sheswal lowedhar dsti
    ll
    feeli
    ngf reakedout ,nowshecanseeshej ust
    shother selfont hef oot….nowshedoesn’ tknow
    howt ohandl
    ethissit
    uat
    ionshejustgott
    en
    hersel
    fint
    o….Shehelpedcl
    eanhim upandnow
    she’saski
    nghersel
    fhowisshegonnahel phi
    m
    causetheghostsaidhedoesn’
    thavemuch
    ti
    meandshedoesn’ twanthi
    mt odieinsi
    deher
    house….

    Shegotupandsl owlywentt opeepinsidethe


    boys-room (backyardroom)sheputhi mi nand
    hewasst i
    ll
    inthatpositi
    onandhi smemberi s
    nowasl eeptoo….Shest oodbyt hedoorlooking
    athim scaredt oapproachhim...
    shebither
    l
    owerl ipshakingwithfearandsheputher
    for
    eheadbyt hedoorf r
    amecl osi
    ngherey esto
    calm herracingheartsoshecangoandcov er
    him withsomet hi
    ng***
    Voi
    ce:
    I..
    .iwonthur
    tyouIpr
    omi
    se
    *
    **shejumpedscreamingagai
    nwhenshe
    r
    eali
    zedthedeepscaryvoi
    ceiscomi
    ngfr
    om
    hi
    m andsher
    anout
    side*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEHOTEL

    NARRATED

    ***Stev
    ensandAl phalett
    e’smotherdecidedto
    bookher selfintoahot eltocalm down...
    she
    didntgot oAl phalette’
    shousecauseshe
    doesntwanthi mi nv
    olvedinthi
    scauseshe
    knowshersonandhowhecangetwheni t
    comest oher…. she’sheartbr
    okenbyherf ight
    withStev ensandt hehurtf
    ulwordshesai d
    aboutAl phaletteandhi sson….Sheblamesher
    husbandf orturningStevensagainstAlphalet
    te,
    shehat est oadmi ti
    tbutshe’
    sawar ethather
    husbandhasnev eracceptedAl phal ettesince
    theystar t
    eddat i
    ng….hehasal way sbeen
    reservedt owar dshim andnev err eall
    yt ri
    edt o
    bondorcr eatesomesor tofrelationshi pwith
    him...
    Thet r
    uthi shehasnev ertreat edhi ml ikea
    sonandi tbreaksherhear tevery dayt hather
    sonhasbeengoi ngthroughal lthisandshe’ s
    sti
    llwiththesamemanev enaf tersomany
    years…..Alphalettestayedwi thhi suncl ebef ore
    hegotmar ri
    edcauset heat mospher eint heir
    housewasj usttoomuchf orachi ldtobearso
    shedeci dedt ol ethim staywithhi suncl eand
    theunclet ookgoodcar eofhi m unt ilshe
    suggest edt hathegoesandst ay sataboar ding
    school whent heunclegotmar r
    iedandshe
    couldseet hewomandi dn’tli
    keAl phalett
    e…. ..

    Theuncleneverchangedtowar
    dsAlphaand
    he’
    sabeenaf at
    herfi
    guresi
    nceeventodayand
    she’
    sgratef
    ulforthat
    …..
    she’
    shurtt
    hatthi
    ngs
    hav eescal atedt othisbet weent he
    brother s….Shehast ri
    edt obr ingt hem closer
    butonl yAlphawast heonewi ll
    ingbutasf or
    Stev ens(sheshookherheadasmor et earsran
    downhercheeks) ….whydi dshest aywitht hat
    man…. shebl ameshi m causeheal somakes
    distasteful r
    emar ksaboutAl phaletteeverynow
    andt henandwhoknowst heki ndofpoi sonhe
    fi
    lltheirsonwi thwheni tsjustt het wooft hem
    causenochi ldcansayal lthosedespi cable
    thingswi thouthi smi ndbei ngpoi sonedata
    youngage….Herphoner i
    ngsandi t
    sher
    husbandandshedr oppedt hecal landcl i
    cks
    hert ongue…. .thenitringsagai nandi tsa
    numbershedoesn’ tknowandsomet hingt el
    ls
    hert oansweri t..
    .shewi peshert earsof fand
    takesadeepbr eathandanswer sit**
    *
    Bahl
    e:Bahl
    eRei
    nekehel
    l
    o
    Dori
    s:hel
    l
    ot hi
    sisDori
    sJohnson….
    mayIpl
    ease
    speaktoAlphal
    ett
    e’smot
    her
    *
    **Bahl
    efr
    owns*
    **
    Bahl
    e:t
    hisi
    sher
    Dori
    s:good.
    ..
    wakhul
    uma.
    ..
    wabol
    abol
    aorwa
    buwaorwaamba
    *
    **shef
    rownedsomemor
    e**
    *
    Bahl
    e:howcanIhel
    pyou.
    ..
    Dor
    isr
    ight
    Dor
    is:
    youhav
    en’
    tanswer
    edmemogi
    rl
    Bahl
    e:ngi
    yakhul
    uma
    Dor
    is:
    goodbuti
    m sur
    eyouunder
    stand
    Set
    swananeh
    Bahl
    e:y
    eah….
    whati
    sthi
    sabout
    Dori
    s:i
    m Masai’
    smot herandIgotyour
    numbersf
    rom yourson….wellhegavet
    hem t
    o
    mydaughterandshegav ethem t
    ome
    Bahl
    e:oohok….
    howi
    ssheandmygr
    andson
    doi
    ng
    Dor
    is:
    good….
    l
    ookmyskati
    m gonnagost
    rai
    ght
    tothepoint….weorshoul dIsayyoursonneed
    topaydamagesandi nt
    roducemygr andsonto
    hisancestors….idontwantprobl
    emsl eBadimo
    (withancestors)sincehisfat
    herkeThokoza
    Mkhulu(isat raditi
    onalheal
    er)
    Bahl
    e:umm ok
    Doris:Ialsospoket omydaughterandshe
    agreedgor eaft
    erthewholedamagesthi
    ngher
    sonshoul dtakeherfat
    her’
    ssur
    namesohe
    doesn’ tencounterpr
    oblemswhenhe’s
    older….rememberdi ancest
    orstsaboThokoza
    dial apisamyskatandIdontwantst r
    essfor
    mybabi es
    *
    **Mr
    sRei
    nekei
    sshocked*
    **
    Bahl
    e:ummm y
    eahIagr
    ee
    Dori
    s:sopleasecont
    actr
    elev
    antpeopleandI
    ’l
    l
    bewaiti
    ngforyouatmyhouse..
    .I
    ’
    llsendyoumy
    l
    ivel
    ocati
    on
    Bahl
    e:okummm I
    ’
    llcal
    lhi
    suncl
    eandl
    ethi
    m
    know
    Doris:greatandmyskatIdon’ twantpeopl e
    who’ l
    lcomewi thdramat omyhouse…. wedoi ng
    thi
    sf ortheboynott obuttheadsandshowgor e
    who’ ssuperiorandsh!t…..ihaveav eryfoul
    mout handl egomoer (a)kamoer (
    a)…..nnake
    kgaolapoodi ball
    skamani cur
    eskat ….ake
    tshamekel we(andIcanf ightalso….iri
    pabul l’
    s
    ball
    sof fusingmymani cureslov e….i
    m badlike
    that)soonl ycomewi thpeoplewhowant sto
    helpourgr andsonandwewi l
    lhav eagoodday
    andenj oyour sel
    vesandbemer ryman. ..
    goba
    monat emanwabonasoy ah(i t
    sgonnabeni ce)
    Bahl
    e:wow…ummm okIhearyou..
    .i
    ’
    llcal
    lhi
    s
    uncl
    e..
    he’
    sagoodmanandafatherfi
    gureto
    hi
    m
    Doris:
    goodandIl i
    ket hefactthaty
    ou’r
    enot
    gi
    vingmeat ti
    tudeitshowsgor ewegonnaget
    al
    ongj ustf
    ineandbegr eatgrandmotherst
    o
    ourgrandson…..
    alr
    ightmyskatr etl
    abuaakere
    (al
    ri
    ghtmyl
    ovewewi
    l
    ltal
    kok)
    Bahl
    e:umm okby
    e
    Dor
    is:
    shapl
    ala
    *
    **theyendedthecal
    landMr sReinekejust
    l
    ookedatherphonestil
    lshocked…..
    thenshe
    l
    aughedshakingherhead***
    Bahl
    e:y
    ho!
    !!

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TAREKMTHEMBU

    ***Ihavebeent r
    y i
    ngtogethol dofShalateandI
    cant….sheblockedmeev erywhere…..
    idont
    knowi fshe’
    sokwher eversheisornot ….Icant
    evencallhersisterscauseIknowbynowt hey
    hatememor ethant heyalr
    eadydi d….
    .Str
    essis
    kil
    li
    ngmeandngaphaSamkei sbusyr eminding
    meev eryf#ck#nsecondsaboutdoi ngrightby
    her….shet oldherfami lyandt hosepeopl e
    showedupatmypar entshouseandy ou
    guessedi tright,mamawel comedt hem and
    assuredt hem andpr omi sedt hem sh! t
    (sigh)…..mypl anhasf ail
    edandIdon’ tknow
    whatt odoany mor e….Theonl yt hingI’
    m
    gratefulforisthefactt hatShal atehasn’ t
    servedmewi thdiv
    or cepaper s,may beshej ust
    needst ocal m downandr eali
    zet hatwecan
    actuallymaket hi
    swor k,thatIlov ehersomuch
    andshel ovesmeasmuch…. y
    eahshe’ l
    lcome
    aroundbutei shIdidn’twannapayl obolaf or
    Samkewi t
    houtherper mi ssionorherpr esence
    there….

    Iwantedevery
    onetoseeauni t
    edf r
    ontbet
    ween
    meandher …..
    toseehersupport
    ingmeasher
    husband.
    ..
    icanti
    magineli
    fewithouther
    ..
    .ineed
    tofightforherwi thever yt
    hingIgot …. Iknow
    peoplewi l
    lsaybutIhav eSamkel o,wel l she’sa
    meanst oanend…. whatIneedf rom herar e
    babiesnjet hat’
    sall….yesshe’ sbeaut i
    ful and
    sexyandshecomesf rom aweal thy
    polygamousf amilywhi chisabonusbutmy
    heartbeatsf oronewomanandonewoman
    onlyandt hat’sShalatewhi l
    eSamkel oi sa
    womant hat’sgonnamakemeaf atherand
    that’
    sar easonIwannamar ryhercauseshe
    knowst heconceptofapol ygamousmar ri
    age,
    shegr ewupi noneandIknowshewontcause
    problemsf ormeandShal ate..
    .she’llknowher
    placeandherpur posei nthismar ri
    age. .
    .His
    phoner angandi t
    ’shismot her ,hesi ghed
    beforeanswer i
    ng***
    Tar
    :Ma
    Khet
    hi:
    babakaboyhowar
    eyou
    Tar
    :goodandy
    ou
    Khethi
    :i
    m ok….
    whendi
    dyoul
    asthearf
    rom y
    our
    fat
    hermyboy
    Tar
    :ummm att
    hemeet
    ingma.
    ..
    why
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tar
    :whenl
    astdi
    dyouseehi
    m ma
    Khet
    hi:
    aagrmay
    beheforgott
    otel
    lmehe’
    s
    goi
    ngononeofhi
    sbusi
    nesstri
    ps
    *
    **shechuckl
    edner
    vousl
    y**
    *
    Tar
    :real
    l
    yma….
    hashedonet
    hatbef
    ore
    Khet
    hi:l
    etmecallhi
    m agai
    nmaybehe’
    sina
    meeti
    ng..
    .sayhi
    toSamkeforme
    ***sheendedthecal
    landTareklookedathis
    phonewithafr
    ownt henhedial
    edhisfat
    her’
    s
    numbersandtheyrangunti
    lheanswered***
    Mazwakhe:
    Dumakude
    *
    **okit
    sbeenawhil
    esincehecal
    l
    edhi
    m by
    t
    hatname“het
    hought”
    ***
    Tar
    :babahowar
    eyou
    Mazwakhe:
    good
    *
    **t
    henTar
    ekcl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Tar
    :ummm umasay
    sshehasntheardf
    rom y
    ou
    i
    nawhil
    enow….
    isever
    ythi
    ngokbet
    weenyou
    Mazwakhe:concent
    rat
    eonyourmarr
    iage.
    ..
    or
    what
    sleftofi
    tandleavemi
    nealoneboy
    *
    **hef
    rownedt
    henheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Tar
    :babamai
    swor
    ri
    ed
    Mazwakhe:
    andShal
    atei
    sbr
    oken
    Tar
    :wow..
    .soy
    ou’
    reworr
    iedaboutsomeone
    who’
    snothi
    ngtoy
    ouattheexpenseofyour
    ownwif
    e..
    .mymother
    Mazwakhe: Idon’
    tknowwhaty ouknowabout
    mar r
    iageanduniti
    ngtwofamili
    esboybutlet
    meschool you….whenyoudecidedtomar r
    ied
    thatgir
    lyouunit
    edt wofamil
    i
    esmeani ngshe
    becameadaught erinourfamil
    y,herf
    amily
    trust
    eduswi thherthatwewi llt
    akecar eofher
    andt r
    eatherwell
    ….asf oryourmot hershe
    knowshershenani gansandwhat st ocomeso
    i
    fy oustil
    lwanttolookathert hesameway
    thenmi ndyourownbusi ness….Icantbeliev
    e
    howmuchofamama’ sboyy ouar e….such
    disappoint
    mentnx a
    ***
    thenhedroppedt
    hecal
    ll
    eav
    ingTar
    ekmor
    e
    confused*
    **
    Tar
    :whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED

    **
    *Jabuknockedonthedoorandwai
    ted….
    aft
    er
    afewsecondthedooropenedandt
    hereshe
    st
    ood***
    Lol
    l
    y:Ja.
    ..
    Jabu
    *
    **shesai
    dshocked*
    **
    Jabu:
    ntwana
    *
    **shel
    ookedathi
    m conf
    usednow*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:whatar
    eyoudoi
    ngher
    e
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:
    okIdeser
    vet
    hat
    …..
    canIcomei
    n
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Idontwantt
    roubl
    eJabu
    Jabu:
    im nother
    etocausetr
    oubl
    e….
    I’
    m her
    eto
    makepeaceandapologi
    ze
    *
    **sher
    aisedaney
    ebr
    owl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Jabu:
    kajaj
    aI’
    vebeenasa$s(IknowI
    ’
    vebeen
    ana$s)
    ***
    shesighedthenmadewayf orhi
    mt oenter
    andhegotinwi t
    htheshoppi
    ngbagsinhi
    s
    hands.
    ..
    sheclosedthedoorandwentt
    ojoin
    hi
    m**
    *
    Jabu:
    IboughtwhatIhopei
    sst
    il
    lyourf
    avour
    it
    e
    **
    *hesi
    ghedwhenhesawshewasn’
    tev
    en
    smil
    i
    ng**
    *
    Jabu:
    If#ck#dupdi
    dn’
    tI
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    ouhur
    tme
    *
    **henoddedswal
    l
    owi
    nghar
    d**
    *
    Jabu:
    whatshoul
    dIdot
    omaket
    hingsr
    ight
    Lol
    l
    y:Idon’
    tthi
    nkt
    her
    e’sany
    thi
    ngy
    oucando
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheadnotagr
    eei
    ngwi
    thher
    ***
    Jabu:retswakgol
    eLoll
    y(we’v
    ecomef ar
    Loll
    y)….
    we’vebeent
    hroughsh!
    ttoget
    hert
    his
    cantbeit
    ***
    Shesighedandmovedtot
    heshoppi
    ngbags
    andunpackedwhathebr
    ought
    ***
    Jabu:
    Lor
    rai
    ne
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabupl
    ease
    Jabu:
    kef
    lopi
    l
    ehaar
    de(Imessedupi
    m sor
    ry)
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngcl
    oset
    oher
    ..
    .t
    oocl
    ose*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    Jabu:
    im notl
    eav
    ingunt
    ily
    ouf
    orgi
    veme
    **
    * shelookedupathi
    m andswal
    l
    owedast
    hei
    r
    eyeslocked***
    Lol
    ly
    :mymanwontl
    i
    kehowcl
    osey
    ouar
    enow
    tome
    Jabu: Icanbendyouhereandnowandt akey
    ou
    from behindandfuckyourbr
    ainsoutand
    ther
    e’snot hi
    nghecandoaboutit
    ***
    sheswal
    l
    owedhardasherhear
    tstar
    ted
    beati
    ngf
    ast
    erandshel
    ookedaway**
    *
    Jabu:
    butt
    hat
    snotwhyim here.
    ..
    im her
    etof
    ix
    mymessandgetyourf
    orgi
    veness
    *
    **hesai
    dtaki
    ngast epbackwi t
    hhishands
    i
    nsi
    dehischi
    nopants….r
    ightthenthedoorbel
    l
    r
    angandLoll
    yclear
    edherthroat***
    Lol
    l
    y:ummm l
    etme….
    gett
    hat
    **
    *shequi
    ckl
    ywenttothedoortaki
    ngadeep
    br
    eathandexhal
    i
    ng….sheopenedthedoor
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:babe
    *
    **Kennygav
    eheraf
    akesmi
    l
    e**
    *
    Kenny
    :st
    handwasam
    ***
    heper kedherli
    psandwalkedinl
    eaving
    Lorrainef
    rozenbythedoor.
    ..
    shesnappedout
    ofitandclosedthedoorandwhenshet ur
    ned,
    shef oundthetwobull
    sfaci
    ngeachotherready
    topounceoneachot her*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TOBECONTI
    NUED….

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER06
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DEHERWARD

    ***Alphal
    ett
    ewal kedinandfoundherl ay
    ing
    thereonthebedwi t
    hanoxy genmaskonanda
    dri
    pi nser
    tedinherlefthand….shefel
    tli
    ke
    someonewasi nsideherroom andsheopened
    herey esandfoundAl phal
    ett
    est andi
    ngnextto
    herbed* *
    *
    Al
    pha:
    hi
    ***
    shesl
    owlyt
    ookoffhermaskwi
    thhershaky
    handandgr
    eet
    edhim back*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whatt
    ri
    gger
    edy
    our
    ….Lupi
    ousdecease
    Masai
    :Lu.
    ..
    LupusnotLu.
    ..
    Lupi
    ous
    *
    **hedi
    dn’tsayany
    thi
    nghejustkeptast
    raight
    l
    ookonhisfaceandshesi
    ghedbiti
    ngherlower
    l
    i
    p***
    Masai:Ste..
    .Stev
    enssendmea….phot oofhi
    m
    andhis….babymamai nbednaked….
    .andhe
    ty
    ped...“t
    hisiswhatIcallareal
    woman”but
    befor
    et hathe….insul
    tedmeusingmy….
    i
    nsecur i
    ti
    es
    ***shesaidt
    akingdeepbr eathswhil
    espeaki
    ng,
    shehasshortnessofbr eath….Ri
    ghtnowshe’s
    feeli
    ngashamedt hatshelethim gett
    oherli
    ke
    that….Al
    phal
    ett
    esighedandhebendt oher
    l
    ev el
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    whati
    nsecur
    it
    ies
    **
    *shedi
    dntsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustl
    ooked
    away*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Iaskedy
    ouaquest
    ionmama
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Masai
    :my
    ….myf
    laps
    *
    **hef
    rowned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whatf
    laps
    *
    **t
    henhi
    sfacer
    elaxedashecaughton*
    **
    Al
    pha:wellIl
    ovedthem andim damnsur
    eIst
    il
    l
    l
    ovethem sof#ckhim….anyt
    hingelse
    ***
    sheswal l
    owedandshookherheadno. ..
    she
    wasn’
    tcomf ortablewithconf i
    dinginhi
    m about
    al
    lherinsecuri
    ties.
    ..ev
    ent houghtheyhavea
    chi
    ldtogethershef actremains,shedoesn’
    t
    knowhimt otrusthiml ikethat***
    Alpha:l
    istenher
    eandl ist
    engood
    mama…. mournyourrel
    ationshi
    pandhealand
    you’l
    lfi
    ndmewai tingforyou..
    .west
    il
    lneedto
    gi
    v eAJasibl
    ingtoplaywi
    thaboStev
    ensar
    e
    confusedsmallboy
    swhost i
    l
    lneedstof
    #ck
    around
    *
    **het
    henkissedhersl
    ight
    lydryl
    ipsasshe
    f
    rozej
    ustst
    aringathi
    m wit
    hshockalloverher
    f
    acethensomeoneclearedthei
    rthr
    oat*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    comeseey
    out
    omor
    row.
    ..
    getwel
    l
    mama
    ***heki
    ssedherfor
    eheadandhewalkedout
    andMoerawalkedtohertwi
    n’
    sbedwi t
    ha
    rai
    sedeyebr
    owandMasai cl
    ear
    edherthroat
    andsheputheroxygenmaskbackonand
    Moeratooki
    toff*
    **
    Moer
    a:expl
    ain
    Masai
    :ther
    e’s.
    ..not
    hingt
    oexpl
    ain.
    ..Mo
    Moera:
    youwer
    eexchangi
    ngspi
    twi
    thhi
    m
    Masai
    Masai
    :heki
    ssedme….nott
    heot
    herway
    ..
    .
    ar
    ound
    Moer
    a:y
    oudi
    dntst
    ophi
    m aker
    e
    Masai
    :wher
    e’smyson
    *
    **shesai
    dtr
    yingt
    odi
    ver
    tthei
    rconv
    ersat
    ion*
    **
    Moer
    a:wi
    thhi
    sgr
    andmot
    her
    Masai
    :mamai
    s..
    .her
    e
    Moer
    a:nobutshe’
    sonherway
    Masai:
    so.
    ..whi
    chgr
    and.
    ..mot
    herar
    eyou.
    ..
    t
    alki
    ngabout
    Moer
    a:y
    ourmot
    heri
    nlawausi
    *
    **Masai
    frownedt
    henherey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Moer
    a:appar
    entl
    ysheev
    encr
    iedwhenshesaw
    hi
    mforthefi
    rstt
    ime
    Masai:
    yho.
    ..
    aki
    tsi
    kereng.
    ..
    mylif
    eneh(y
    hoI
    don’
    tknowwhattosay….
    mylif
    eneh)
    Moera:mmmhsbariwangakaneh(mmha
    br
    otheri
    nlawwho’
    satradi
    ti
    onalheal
    erneh)
    Masai
    :mxm.
    ..
    wagaf
    a(y
    ouar
    ecr
    azy
    )
    ***
    sheputheroxy
    genmaskbackonandMoera
    l
    aughed….
    Moerawasgladshe’
    sokcauseshe
    canti
    magineherl
    if
    ewi
    thouther
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    HAMMANSKRAAL(TEMBA)

    Tshi
    mol
    ogo:
    hicanIhel
    pyou
    ***
    *Shesaidtothemansitti
    ngbyhergate
    l
    ookingdown….helooksli
    keahobo….hi
    s
    cl
    otheslookdi
    rt
    yandt hesmell
    thatcomes
    fr
    om himishorr
    ibl
    e***
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohGodwhat
    sthi
    snow
    **
    *shesaidtohersel
    fbutthefunnyt
    hingi
    sshe
    wasntscared.
    ..
    sheopenedthedoorandgot
    out
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    hicanIhel
    pyou.
    ..
    whyar
    eyousi
    tt
    ing
    here
    ***
    themanrai
    sedhi
    sheadandlookedupather
    andyoucoul
    dseesadnessal
    loverhi
    sface*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    doy
    ouneedf
    ood
    ***
    themanlookeddownagai
    nandsai
    d
    nothi
    ng*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    pleasehel
    phi
    m
    *
    **shequickl
    yturnedandfoundanol
    dwoman
    l
    ookingsadstandingnextt
    ohercar
    ***
    Woman:pl
    easehel
    phim mydaught
    erandGod
    andhi
    sancest
    orswi
    ll
    blessy
    ou….pl
    easehel
    p
    hi
    m
    ***
    shesaidastearsrandownher
    cheeks.
    ..
    Tshi
    mot urnedtol
    ookatt
    hehomeless
    manandhewasnowl ay
    ingont
    hegroundnot
    mov i
    ng**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:oohmyGod.
    ..
    hey
    ..
    .abut
    i.
    ..
    OohGodi
    s
    hedead
    ***asshe’swalkingclosertohi
    m wi t
    hherheart
    poundinghardagainstherchest….she’
    sscared
    thathemi ghtdi
    einfrontofhergate….shegot
    closerabouttotouchhimt henshewokeup
    pantingwithsweatalloverher**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    F#3K!
    !!
    ***shesaidmov i
    ngbackandshebal ancedher
    backwi t
    ht heheadboar d….shet ookoffhernow
    wetpy j
    amat opandshewi pedherf acewi t
    h
    i
    t….shecoul dstil
    lsmel ltheguy ’shorri
    ble
    smel l
    …..
    shecl osedherey esabi tthenshe
    openedt hem andsi ghedcal mi ngherself
    down…. t
    hiswast hefour t
    ht i
    meshehast hi
    s
    dream andi t
    sexact lythesameev ery
    ti
    me…. May besheneedst ogoandconsul t
    somewher e“shet hought ”….shegotoutofbed
    andwor eanot herpy j
    amat opandsheknel tnext
    tothebedandpr ay ed** *
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    I
    NTHEMORNI
    NG

    ***Shef inishedeatingbr eakfastthenshegot


    upandwentt othesi nkandwashedherpl at
    e
    andcupt henshel eftthem ont hedi shr ackand
    shewi pedherhandsandt hesinkt henshe
    si
    ghedandgothert hi ngsandwal kedt ohercar
    aftershel ockedherdoor ….herhear tpounded
    assher ev ersedoutoft heyardandl uckil
    ywhat
    shet houghtshewi l
    lfindwasn’ tther ethenshe
    cl
    osedt hegat eanddr ov eawaygoi ngt o
    wor k***

    LUNCHTI
    ME
    *
    * *
    Sheseat
    ingherlunchwhenherphone
    r
    ings….
    shesighedandansweredi
    t**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    hel
    l
    oMmamogol
    o(aunt
    )
    Aunt
    y:Tshi
    mol
    ogo
    Tshi
    mo:
    gol
    o(aunt
    )
    Aunt
    y:soi
    thasgot
    tent
    othi
    snow
    *
    **Shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutGol
    o
    Aunty
    : Jokobeteaskedtocomeli
    vewit
    hy out
    o
    hel
    py ouaroundt hehousewhi
    l
    ey ougotowor
    k
    andyour efused.
    ..
    why
    Tshi
    mo:Gol
    oIdontneedahel
    perkogame(i
    n
    myhouse)I
    ’
    m act
    uall
    yfi
    neal
    one
    Aunty
    :gagao(y ourhouse)
    ..
    .hehIhel
    pedyour
    motherfi
    ndthatstandngwanyana(gi
    rly
    )….
    .i
    fit
    wasntformenkebeosenal egae(youwouldnt
    haveahome)
    *
    **shesai
    dbi
    tt
    erl
    y**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:well
    thankyouforhel
    pingherbutt
    it
    le
    deedsay
    sthat’
    sherhouseaker
    e
    *
    **Theauntl
    aughed*
    **
    Aunt y:
    youf orgotthatIwast heonet akingcare
    ofy ourmot herwhenshewassi ck..
    .nowt hat
    mydaught erneedshelpompot samasepa
    Tshimol ogo….kedankiey onaee. .
    .ongl
    ebogaka
    plateyamasepa! !!(you’r
    et el
    li
    ngmesh! t.
    ..
    is
    thisthethanksIget ….youthankingmewi tha
    platefullofsh!t
    )
    ***Tshimol ogosi
    ghedast earsfil
    l
    edher
    eyes..
    .i
    tpai nedherthateversincehermot her
    andbr otherpassedonshe’ sbeenal one..
    .her
    closefami lymember sturnedt hei
    rbacksonher
    j
    ustbecausesher efusedt obecont roll
    edby
    them…. .theychangedwhent heyf oundoutt hat
    hermot herandbr otherlefteverythingtheyown
    toherandnoneoft hecl osefami l
    ymember s
    gotany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:Ipai
    dyoutol
    ookafterherwhil
    eIgot
    o
    workMmamogolo….y
    oudidntdoitforf
    ree
    Aunty:
    youev enknowhowt otal
    kbackatme
    Tshi
    mol ogo….mysist
    ermustbetur
    ningi
    nher
    grav
    eshame
    Tshimo:y
    esshe’stur
    ninginhergr
    avebecause
    ofyourevi
    lhear
    tandtreat
    menttowardsher
    chi
    ld!!
    !
    Aunt
    y:or
    eng….(whatdi
    dyousay
    )
    **
    *Tshi
    modr oppedthecallandbreat
    hedout
    wit
    hashakybr eat
    h..
    .herphonerangagai
    nit
    wastheauntandshej ustl
    etitr
    ing**
    *
    Tshimo:mamawhydi dyouleavemeallalone
    todealwithy ourf
    amily….Abutii
    m al
    lal
    oneand
    i
    mt ryi
    ngsohar dtobestrongli
    keyoutaught
    met obuti tgetstoomuchabut i
    ….pl
    easefight
    formelikey oualwaysdidwheny ouwerest i
    l
    l
    ali
    ve
    ***
    shewipedhernowf al
    l
    ingt
    ear
    sand
    conti
    nuedtoeatherl
    unchwit
    haheav
    yhear
    t**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    JABU

    ***IcantbelieveLorrainerightnow…. she
    blockedmynumber s(huf fs)….i
    tsoffi
    ci al
    Ihate
    thatpieceofshi tKenny ,shehast urnedLol l
    y
    againstmeandIhat eit….WellatleastSbui s
    betternow, hecani nteractwi thusnowand
    evenl aughher eandt here..
    .whatevershesai d
    tohim wor kedcausemyboyi sback...yeshe’s
    notf ul
    lbackt ohisoldsel fbutslowlybutsur el
    y
    Ibelievehe’sgonnabeal right
    ...
    myof ficedoor
    opensandi t
    sHeat h** *
    Heat
    h:ol
    a
    Me:sho.
    ..wamoizel
    avroegsodi
    ntshang(why
    ar
    esmi l
    i
    ngliket
    hissoearl
    yint
    hemor ni
    ng)
    *
    **Hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Heat
    h:nnaket
    roil
    ebossoandmymamiwat
    a
    makessur
    epapiwatai
    salway
    shappy
    Me:
    mxm
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Me:
    cany
    oubel
    i
    eveLol
    l
    ybl
    ockedme
    *
    **hef
    rowned*
    **
    Heat
    h:bl
    ockedy
    ouwher
    e
    Me:
    shebl
    ockedmynumber
    s
    Heat
    h:andwhywoul
    dshedot
    hat
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingdown*
    **
    Me:obethil
    edraaikonnadaargoovaleSbu
    andmpy ael
    elentswitswicamebyandtookher
    (shecamet omyhouset otal
    ktoSbuandthat
    dogwithasmalldickcamebyandtookher)
    **
    *Heat
    hlookedatmeconf
    used.
    ..
    eishhecan
    besl
    owthisonewhenhewantst
    o***
    Me: daimoer skondemoj ang…. ei
    sh….yeerne
    kebethil
    et opbr ayaka….
    nekebel a
    str
    aight….nxaay antl
    waelabar i
    ele(that
    bastardthatsf#ck#ngher .
    ..
    eish….iwasmad-
    angrybro….iwasboi li
    ngstr
    aight….nxaaathat
    fooldoesntknowme)
    *
    **t
    hisf
    ool
    laughed*
    *
    Me:
    olagang(whyar
    eyoul
    aughi
    ng)
    Heath:whyar
    eyouangr
    ygor
    eboy
    fri
    endy
    a
    Lol
    lyfet
    chedher
    *
    **hedi
    dntj
    ustaskmet
    hatt
    hisf
    ool
    ***
    Me:
    ony
    akor
    eng(whatar
    eyout
    ryi
    ngt
    osay
    )
    Heat
    h:he’
    sherboy
    fri
    end
    Me:
    yourpoi
    nt
    Heat
    h:hebaan
    *
    **hegav
    emeaconf
    usedl
    ook*
    **
    Me: hehadthenervemf o….
    sebet
    e….t
    hel
    iverto
    comet omyhouseanddemandher ….
    he’
    snot
    evenmar r
    iedtoherkamoobusyokukamar #te
    agoshoshobanaot lakonnagot l
    omo
    cl
    aima…(andhecomest omyhousewit
    hhi s
    wrinkl
    ingbal
    lstocl
    aim her)
    *
    **whyi
    shel
    ooki
    ngatmel
    i
    ket
    his*
    **
    Me:
    keng?(what
    )
    Heat
    h:mhmhnex(nopenot
    hing)
    *
    **hesai
    dshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Me:sowav rost
    anagor
    ewhykel
    esuurso(so
    youunder
    standwhyimthi
    ssour
    /mad)
    Heat
    h:y
    eah.
    ..
    onyokor
    agi
    wabl
    aen(y
    eahhe
    want
    stobebeat
    en)
    Me:remokgaol
    elem#r
    etenxa(andcutof
    fhi
    s
    bal
    l
    s)
    Heat
    h:any
    wayt
    het
    rucksar
    ri
    vedsaf
    ely
    *
    **i
    breat
    hedoutl
    oud….
    whatar
    eli
    ef*
    **
    Me:
    eisht
    hat
    sar
    eli
    efman….
    yeer
    Heath:
    yeahthosepackageswereexpensi
    ve.
    ..
    if
    youknowwhatImeansol osi
    ngt
    hem more
    especi
    all
    ytocops….
    *
    **hewhi
    stl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Heat
    h:mat
    hat
    a(t
    roubl
    e)
    Me:
    yeah
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Heath:
    eishev
    ersi
    nceThandi
    putt
    obedRuui
    s
    scar
    ce
    *
    **i
    chuckl
    ed*
    **
    Me:
    weal
    lwer
    escar
    ceMshi
    kar
    o
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Heat
    h:yeahmaraRuui
    sworse.
    ..
    you’
    dsweari
    ts
    hi
    sfi
    rstchi
    ld….
    any
    wayletmepassbyRuu’
    s
    pl
    acethengoseeNal
    edi
    Me:youjustsawherbefor
    ey oucameher
    e
    man….nomanhemi saaram skepsel
    sabatho
    haw(lett
    hepoorgir
    lbreat
    h)
    Heat
    h:t
    sek!
    !(pi
    ssof
    f)
    *
    **Hesaidget
    tingupandwal
    kedoutl
    eavi
    ng
    melaughi
    ng….
    theset
    wof3ckl
    iker
    abbi
    tshai
    man***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    HI
    LLS

    ***
    Thelastti
    meIsawTar ekwasy ester
    day
    whenhecamebackf rom work….hereceiveda
    cal
    landpanickedt henher ushedout..
    .,
    hedi dnt
    sayanyt
    hinghej ustrushedoutandIhav ent
    seenorheardfrom him again….al
    lIheardwhen
    hewasont hephonewasdontpani candI ’
    llcal
    l
    yourgy naandher ushedout(si gh),Iknow I
    despisehim nowandIcantst andhim butIsti
    ll
    l
    ov ehim andi t
    shur tssobadt hathe’snow
    givi
    nghi sfull
    at t
    enti
    ont otheside
    chick….may beIshoul dj
    ustcountmyl osesand
    l
    eav e….icantcompet ewi t
    hhi schil
    d….he’
    ll
    alwayschoset hem overmecauseIcantgi ve
    him achi l
    dandhi sev i
    lmot herwil
    lmakesur e
    everydayIknowt hatim nolongerapr i
    orit
    y
    (sigh)….

    May bethisisitforus...
    thiswholemar ri
    agewas
    buil
    donanunst ablef oundationandmay bewe
    shouldnthav egottenmar riedinthefi
    rst
    place….Maybei fhesai d“babyImessedupand
    hadaoneni ghtstandwi thsomechi ckandnow
    she’stell
    i
    ngmeshe’ spregnant”i would
    considerforgiv
    inghi m astimewentbybutf or
    hi
    mt osayheal sowantt omar ryhertooisj
    ust
    ast abintheback...helit
    erall
    ytookmyhear t
    andshr editt
    opi eces.
    ..
    Myphoner ingsandits
    him calli
    ngmxm, Ij
    ustdroppedthecalland
    switchedmyphoneof fthenIgotupandwent
    togetr eadytoleaveforthehospit
    al….mamais
    comi ngbackt odayandIneedt oprepare
    my selfmentall
    yforheroutburstwhenshe
    l
    ear nsofmyf ail
    edmar ri
    age(sigh)***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED

    **
    *Tarekt
    ri
    edhernumber
    sagai
    nandi
    tsend
    hi
    mt ovoi
    cemai
    l**
    *
    Tar
    :damni
    t!
    !
    ***
    hecl
    enchedhisj
    awst
    henhewal
    kedi
    nsi
    de
    Samke’
    sward**
    *
    Tar
    :mamakhe
    Samke:
    hey
    *
    **shesai
    daf
    tersheopenedherey
    es*
    **
    Tar:Ihav
    eanimportantmeet
    ingIhav
    etoget
    to.
    ..
    il
    lseeyoul
    aterok
    Samke:
    ok
    *
    **heki
    ssedherf
    orehead*
    **
    Tar
    :takecar
    eofhi
    m ok
    **
    *hesai
    dbrushi
    ngherbel
    l
    yandt
    hebaby
    ki
    ckedandhesmil
    edwidel
    y**
    *
    Tar
    :Il
    ovey
    ouboy
    *
    **heki
    ssedherbel
    l
    y**
    *
    Samke:
    Ilov
    eyoudaddy
    Tar
    :met
    oomamakhe
    ***
    heki ssedherfor
    eheadagaint
    henhewalked
    outtr
    yingHi l
    l
    snumber sagai
    nandli
    kebef
    oreit
    sendhimt ov oi
    cemail
    again*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED

    **
    *Jabudial
    edhernumber
    susi
    nganew
    si
    mcard**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:Lor
    rai
    neMpof
    uhel
    l
    o
    Jabu:
    whydi
    dyoubl
    ockmynumber
    s
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabul
    ani
    Jabu:
    why
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Jabu:
    whati
    fSbuneeds
    Lol
    l
    y:hehasmynumber
    sJabu
    Jabu:
    andwhati
    fhi
    sphonedi
    esorsomet
    hing
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    hoJabuuf
    unani
    (whatdoy
    ouwant
    )
    Jabu:ojolaledaibarinouandwa
    dema….oipotsagoreoQueenEl izabet
    hheh
    (you’
    renowdat ingthatfoolandyousuddenly
    thi
    nksohi ghl
    yofy our
    self….
    youthinkyou’
    re
    QueenElizabet
    hheh)
    Lol
    l
    y:di
    dyoucal
    ltoi
    nsul
    tmenow
    Jabu:Lorrai
    neot senekengmmh. ..
    odronkake
    pi
    piyast l
    ael
    aselesal eZul
    uy aleshoboreheh
    (Lorr
    ainewhathasgot tenintoyoummh…. t
    hat
    uncutdickofthatZulufoolisdr
    ivi
    ngyoucrazy
    heh)
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabuy
    ouhav
    entt
    oldmewhyy
    oucal
    l
    ed
    me
    ***
    shesai
    ddef
    eat
    edi
    gnor
    inghi
    sinsul
    ttowar
    ds
    herman**
    *
    Jabu:
    ngi
    theongi
    blokel
    ani
    (Isai
    dwhydi
    dyou
    bl
    ockme)
    Loll
    y:causeyou’
    rehar
    assi
    ngmeJabu.
    ..
    idont
    evenunderst
    andwhyy ou’
    remad.
    ..
    myboyf
    ri
    end
    camet
    ofet
    chme.
    ..
    myboy
    fri
    end!
    !
    *
    **shesai
    drai
    singherv
    oice*
    **
    Jabu: atwhosehouseheh…. atwhosehouse
    andot seyakaesebet
    esat suaneyagot agwa
    keditshotshwanetsatshukir
    itocomeclaim
    youheh. ..
    areyouhiswi
    fe!!
    !(andwheredi dhe
    getthegut sofachickthati
    sintoxi
    cat
    edby
    sugarant stocomeandcl ai
    my ouheh..
    .areyou
    hiswife)
    Loll
    y:y
    ho….youknowwhat ,ifi
    thappensJabu
    nehIcomet oyourhouseagainwhichIdoubtI
    everwil
    l,
    hewontparkout si
    deyouryardwhen
    hecomest ofet
    chme…. how’sthat
    Jabu:
    oreng(
    whatdi
    dyousay
    )
    *
    **shedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Jabu:
    LORRAI
    NE!
    !!
    ….NX!
    !!
    !
    **
    *hesqueezedhisphoneabi
    tthenhet
    hrewi
    t
    ontopofthetabl
    e**
    *
    Jabu:
    SABS!
    !
    **
    *hecal
    l
    edoneoft
    heguy
    sthatwor
    kfor
    hi
    m***
    Sabel
    o:bozzakazwakal
    a…(bossi
    m comi
    ng)

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    NARRATED

    Moera:
    Ijusthopeshedoesntcauser
    uckus
    whenshegetshere
    Masai
    :oho…
    **
    *shetookadeepbreat
    h..
    .shewasst
    il
    lhav
    ing
    di
    ffi
    cul
    tywit
    hbreat
    hing*
    **
    Masai
    :asi
    f
    **
    *theyl
    aughedbutt
    heycoul
    dseeShal
    ate
    wasnther
    self
    ***
    Moer
    a:Hi
    l
    lsar
    eyouok
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hedi
    dntcomehomel
    astni
    ght
    *
    **shesai
    dandtearsr
    andownhercheeksand
    Moeracl
    enchedherj
    aws*
    **
    Moer
    a:t
    hatpi
    eceof
    ….
    Masai
    :MOno
    Masai
    :i
    m sor
    ryHi
    l
    ls…
    **
    *shebreat
    hedi
    nandsher
    eleasedhebreat
    h
    asMoerawentcl
    osert
    ocomforther
    ***
    Masai
    :Iknowhowmuch….y
    oul
    ovehi
    m
    ***
    shebreat
    hedi
    nandr
    eleasedherbr
    eat
    h
    again*
    **
    Masai
    :Icant
    ….i
    cantbel
    i
    eve….he’
    stheone
    doi
    ngt
    his
    Hi
    ll
    s:I.
    ..
    ithi
    nkhelovesher
    ….icantcompete
    wi
    thher….she’sgi
    vi
    nghim whatIcant
    ..
    .ishoul
    d
    j
    ustcutmyl osesandl
    eave
    *
    **shesai
    dbet
    weenhersobs*
    **
    Moera:i
    knowithur
    tsandi
    m sor
    ryy
    ou’
    regoi
    ng
    t
    hroughthi
    sbabes
    **
    * Hi
    l
    lssobbedunt
    ilshecamedown..
    .she
    wipedhertear
    sandtookadeepbreat
    h***
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    vedecidedt
    omov eoutandgoseet
    hat
    l
    awyeryourecommendedforme
    Masai
    :Hi
    l
    ls…
    Hil
    ls:depressi
    onisknocki
    ngonmydoorMasa
    andIdontwannagobackt ot
    hatpl
    ace
    again….i
    ttookalotfr
    om metomoveonfr
    om
    Mhlaba’sdeath
    *
    **t
    het
    winsswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Moer
    a:what
    everdeci
    siony
    oumakewewi
    l
    l
    suppor
    tyou100per
    centmnt
    ase
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsnodded*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:okenoughaboutmypr
    oblems….MasaMo
    t
    oldmeaboutyouandMkhuluAlphal
    ett
    e
    *
    **Masairol
    l
    edherey
    esandMoer
    aandHi
    l
    ls
    l
    aughed*
    **
    Masai
    :ther
    e’snot
    hing….t
    her
    e….
    *
    **shet
    ookadeepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Masai:
    he’
    ssti
    l
    lStevens….bl
    oodbr
    otherandi
    m
    nott
    hatki
    ndoflady
    Moer
    a:ohobusyact
    ingl
    i
    kemot
    herTher
    esa
    *
    **Masaishowedhert
    hemiddl
    efi
    nger.
    ..
    ri
    ght
    t
    hentheyheardcommoti
    onint
    hecorr
    idort
    hen
    t
    heshestood***
    Dor
    is:
    ooohmybaby
    ….ngwanakabat
    hong
    ***
    sherushedtoMasaiandhuggedhert
    hen
    shebrokethehugandkissedal
    lov
    erher
    f
    ace*
    **
    Masai
    :Maaast
    op
    Dor
    is:
    hai
    suka….
    you’
    l
    lal
    way
    sbemybaby
    *
    **shefixedherbl
    anket
    sthenki
    ssedher
    f
    orehead***
    Dor
    is:
    howar
    eyouf
    eel
    i
    ng
    Masai
    :bet
    tert
    hanmaa.
    ..
    bane(y
    est
    erday
    )
    ***
    thenshetur
    nedandwenttoMoeraand
    huggedherandki
    ssedherf
    orehead*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    hibaby
    Moer
    a:mama
    Dor
    is:howareyoufeel
    i
    ngmybaby….
    iknowi
    t
    mustbehardseei
    ngMasalay
    ingt
    here
    *
    **Moer
    ajustshr
    ug*
    **
    Moer
    a:i
    mjustgl
    adi
    twasj
    ustapani
    cat
    tack
    **
    *shebrushedhercheekgent
    lywi
    than
    emoti
    onallookonherface*
    **
    Dori
    s:got
    lol
    okababyok(ev
    ery
    thi
    ngwi
    l
    lbe
    fi
    nebabyok)
    ***
    Moer anoddedthenshewentt oHil
    lsand
    huggedherlongerandHil
    l
    sbl i
    nkedfastfi
    ght
    ing
    hertear
    sbackt henDor
    isbrokethehugandshe
    cuppedherface***
    Dor
    is:
    whatdidt
    hatbi
    gheadedZul
    uboydot
    his
    t
    imearound
    ***
    sheaskedwit
    hast er
    nv oi
    ceandthetwins
    l
    ookedateachotherwhil
    eHllst
    earsrandown
    hercheeks*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    ooohsomeonei
    sgonnapaydear
    ly….
    **
    *Shesaidpull
    ingheri
    ntoanot
    herhugand
    Hil
    l
    sjustsobbed***
    Moer
    a:ey
    eye
    *
    **shewhi
    sper
    edt
    oMasai
    ***
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….
    (
    SEEYOUONMONDAY….
    GOODNI
    GHT!
    !!
    !)

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER07

    Hil
    l
    s:hecheat
    edandgotthewomanpregnant
    andhesai
    dhewantstotakeherast
    hesecond
    wif
    e
    Dori
    s:t
    hisf
    ool
    ..
    .iknewhewasl i
    kehisfather
    butpol
    ygamy.
    ..
    evenhisf
    athercoul
    dn’thandl
    eit
    Moer
    a:whatdoy
    oumeanmama
    Dori
    s:doy
    ouwantt
    obepar
    toft
    hatci
    rcus
    Shal
    ate
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Hil
    l
    s:Isti
    lll
    ovehim mama...
    alotbut….hehur
    t
    me..
    .hebrokemyhear t
    ….igavehim myalland
    hestabbedmei nthebackandbr oughtathi
    rd
    par
    tywho’spregnantforhi
    schildinour
    marri
    age
    *
    **shesai
    dsobbi
    ng*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    oohmybaby
    ***shesai
    dpul l
    ingherintoanembr aceandshe
    cri
    edinherar mswhi chledtothetwins’
    tear
    s
    randownt heircheekstoo….af
    tersometime
    Hil
    lscalmeddownandDor i
    swipedhertearsof
    f
    withherdesignerscarf
    ***
    Dori
    s:mamaisher
    enowandshe’
    l
    ltakecar
    eof
    ever
    ythi
    ngok
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsnoddedandsheki
    ssedherf
    orehead*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    MrsLULU nocr
    yingassombl
    i
    ef(pl
    ease)
    ***
    Masaiwipedhertearsofflaughinglight
    ly
    andMoeraandHi l
    lslaughed….eversinceMasai
    gotdi
    agnosedwithLupusDor iscallsherMrs
    LULUasani nsi
    dejokeandMasai doesnttake
    off
    ensetoit
    ….anywayDor i
    stookoutherphone
    andmadeacal l
    ***
    Voi
    ce:
    Idi
    dn’
    tknowunt
    ilr
    ecent
    lyDar
    ri
    n
    Dor
    is:
    mynamei
    sDor
    isMazwakhe….
    Dor
    is!
    !!
    *
    **Mazwakhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    befor
    eyoushoutandcur
    seatmeI
    di
    dntknowok
    Dori
    s:howdarehehurtandembar r
    assmybaby
    l
    ikethi
    sMazwakhe….doesthi
    sbigheadedboy
    knowwhot hehell
    Iam….doesheknowwhati m
    capabl
    eofhuh….icanr
    uinhim andever
    ythi
    ng
    heholdsdear
    ..
    .howdarehehurtmybaby
    Mazwakhe:
    cal
    m downDar
    ..
    .imeanDor
    in
    Dor
    is:
    ITSDORI
    S..
    .DORI
    S..
    .WHATSSOHARD
    ABOUTCALLI
    NGMETHAT! !
    !
    Mazwakhe:youweremyDar
    ri
    nbeforey
    ou
    changedyournameandy
    ou’
    llal
    waysbemy
    Darr
    in
    Doris:F#ckyou….y
    oufai
    ledmeMazwakheso
    dontt el
    lmenonsenseandnevertel
    lmethat
    rubbishnonsenseagai
    norI’
    ll
    tellt
    hatv
    asplanka
    (assl ess)y
    oucallawi
    fethetrut
    h
    Mazwakhe:
    uyangi
    thukamanj
    eDor
    is(y
    ou’
    re
    i
    nsul
    ti
    ngmenowDor i
    s)
    Dori
    s:ungit
    shel
    audodi
    naweangi
    thi
    (you’
    re
    al
    sotell
    ingmerubbi
    sh)
    ***
    Mazwakhebr eathedinandouttr
    yingtocalm
    hi
    mselfdown….Dorisistheonl
    ypersonthatcan
    ti
    ckhim offl
    i
    kethisandhedoesntdoany t
    hing
    abouti
    t.
    ..wel
    lhecandosomet hingaboutitbut
    ci
    rcumstanceswontl ethi
    m***
    Mazwakhe:
    ifIdi
    dntst
    il
    ll
    ovey
    ouIwoul
    ddeal
    withthatr
    ott
    enanddi
    srespect
    ful
    mout
    hof
    yours!
    !!
    Dor i
    s:asif.
    ..
    owel emapant a(y oubecame
    weak)t hedayy oufail
    edme…. .anywayy ou’r
    e
    nottheonewhodeser vesmyi nsult
    s….
    Tomor rowthere’sameet ingaty ourson’ s
    houseat3pm andMazwakhe…. hebettermake
    i
    tt othatmeet i
    ngorI’l
    lsearchf orhim and
    embar rasshimi npubli
    candt hemedi awi l
    l
    knowabouthi swhor ingway s.
    ..thi
    nkabouty our
    reputati
    onsohebet t
    ernotpushmet omy
    l
    imi t
    s…. hebett
    ernot!!!
    *
    **t
    henshedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Dori
    s: nxa..
    .nonsense….l
    i
    kefatherl
    ike
    son..
    .wastefulsperm….condom nkebee
    thi
    betsemasepaaa. ..
    nxa(acondom woul
    d
    havest oppedallthi
    ssh!tnxa)
    *
    **t
    hesi
    ster
    slookedathershocked*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mamawast
    hat
    ….Tar
    ek’
    sfa.
    ..
    fat
    her
    Dori
    s:mmmhmxm otletsekamasepaleene
    (yesmxm he’
    sal
    sof
    ullofsh!
    t)
    ..
    .bl
    oodyswine
    **
    * t
    hesist
    ersl
    ookedateachot
    herwi
    tht
    hei
    r
    eyespoppedout*
    **
    Dori
    s:t
    her
    e’sameet
    ingwi
    thy
    ourhusbandand
    i
    nlawstomorr
    ow
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Moer
    a:mamai
    sn’
    titt
    oosoon…
    Dori
    s:ony akaShal
    atealuzeweightfi
    rstka
    st
    ress(youwantShal at
    etoloseweightfir
    st
    wit
    hstress)fori
    ttobetheri
    ghttime
    Moer
    a:noImean…
    ***
    shesaidlooki
    ngatHil
    lswholooked
    spooked….ameeti
    ngwiththei
    nlawstomor
    row
    wasjusttoosoonforher
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    Moer
    a
    Moer
    a:ma
    Dori
    s: neverquesti
    onmewheni tcomesto
    seri
    ousmat t
    ersorelseotlosweladikanot
    sa
    dimpyat sedingweok(y ou’l
    ldi
    eforother
    people’smistakes/
    sins)
    Moer
    a:y
    esmam
    Dor
    is:
    goodgi
    rl
    Dori
    s:kanedoct
    ory
    agaokemang(who’
    syour
    doct
    or)
    Masai
    :Doct
    orVanNi
    eker
    k
    Dor
    is:
    kel
    ebur
    u?(he’
    swhi
    te)
    *
    **sheaskedwi
    thadi
    sgust
    ingf
    ace*
    **
    Masai
    :ey
    amama
    Moer
    a:bat
    hongmay
    ouwer
    emar
    ri
    edt
    oawhi
    te
    man
    Dor
    is:
    andy
    ourpoi
    ntbabygi
    rl
    Moera:whyt
    hatf
    acewheny
    oursur
    namei
    s
    Johnson
    Doris:
    hewasawhi t
    eEngl i
    shmanandt his
    doctorkeleburu(isawhi t
    eAf r
    ikaner).
    ..nkoko
    (grandma)mademyl atefatherwearr okol e
    tuku(adr essandaheadcov er
    )tohidet hat
    he’saboydur i
    ngaparthei
    dsot hepol i
    cedoesnt
    takehim whentheywentar oundtakingbl ack
    boysfrom thei
    rhomesf orGodknowswhat
    *
    **shecl
    i
    ckedhert
    ongue*
    **
    Dori
    s:whoknowsmay bethat
    ’swhyIendedup
    asat r
    ansgenderwoman….may beitaf
    fect
    ed
    hi
    m psy chol
    ogi
    cal
    lyandmental l
    yandthatalso
    mutatedhisgenesandIinher
    iteditwhenIwas
    conceiv
    ed
    ***
    thegirl
    swant edtolaughsobadl ycauseshe
    al
    way ssaysthiswhenev ershehasan
    encounterwithanAfri
    kanerper sonbutthey
    couldntbecausetheydidn’twanttobeinsul
    ted
    at*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    mxm any
    wayl
    etmegof
    indhi
    m Mr
    s
    Lul
    u….maraarek#ff
    #rmonnakomokgaola
    m#ret
    e….waitkemonna??(buti
    fhecal
    l
    smea
    k#f
    f#rI’
    l
    lri
    phisbal
    lsoff
    ..
    .wai
    the’
    saman??
    )
    Moer
    a:mmh
    Dorismxm i m sureopal eekarev ampi re….mo
    alengonkgaekar emaf ofaaat hapileakgogo
    yasesot ho.
    ..
    im sureoaper elemasepal emeno
    amay ell
    owishmxm…. im sureomf adi fake
    smiletsamabur ut owardsblackpeopl e
    especial
    lywhenhel earnsofmysur namenxa
    bloodyracist
    s(mxm i m sir
    ehe’saspal easa
    vampi r
    e…I ’
    m surehe’sev esmellinglikeawet
    hardbodychi cken...
    I’
    m surehe’sev enwear ing
    sh!tt
    yclotheswithy el
    lowishteeth..
    .mxm….I ’
    m
    surehe’sgonnagi vemet hosefakesmi les
    whitepeoplegivet owardsblackpeopl e
    especial
    lywhenhel earnsofmysur namenxa
    bloodyracist
    s)
    ***
    shewenttoMasai andkissedherf
    orehead
    andshewalkedoutcall
    ingoutforanurseand
    t
    hegi
    rl
    sbust
    edoutwi
    thl
    aught
    er*
    **
    Moer
    a:yhommalonakedr
    amaqueenbat
    hong
    (y
    hoyourmot
    herisadr
    amaqueen)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youmeandr
    ag-
    Queen
    *
    **mor
    elaught
    er*
    **
    Masai
    :st
    opguy
    sst
    op
    ***
    sheswit
    chedheroxygentankonandputher
    oxygenmaskonherface**
    *
    Hil
    l
    s:l
    etl
    abelaswaMasai lebusyletshega
    bat
    hobabagolo(you’
    lldi
    eMasai busy
    l
    aughi
    ngatol
    dpeople)
    *
    **mor
    elaught
    er*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TSHI
    MOLOGO
    ***Im comingf rom wor kdri
    vinghomeandI ’m
    ti
    redashel l….todaywasabusydayandIhar dly
    hadt i
    met or estmyf eet,wellri
    ghtnowf or
    someunknownr easonmyhear tkeepsski pping
    abeatev erynowandt hen….andnoti na
    romant i
    cwayno…. morelikesomet hingbadwi l
    l
    happenori saboutt ohappen…. I’
    m dr i
    ving
    carefull
    yont her oadcausemay bet hefeeling
    I’
    m hav i
    ngmi ghtbebecauseofanacci dent…i
    j
    ustbr eathedoutl oudcauseIj ustdr oveinmy
    streetsafely….whenIgotbyt hegat emyhear t
    almostst oppedwhenIseeahomel essman
    sit
    tingbyt hegat e….I
    ’m sl
    owl ydri
    vingtowar ds
    thegat eandst opbyt hegat eandIopenedt he
    carwi ndowhal f* *
    *
    Me:
    h..
    .hi
    *
    **t
    heguydoesntmov eorli
    fthi
    sheadjustli
    ke
    i
    nmydr eamsorvi
    sionsandmynervesdecide
    t
    ohitr
    ooftop***
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o..
    .abut
    i??
    *
    **St
    il
    lnot
    hing*
    **
    Me: dontdot
    hisTshi
    mo.
    ..
    pleasedon’
    tdot
    his
    I
    ’m beggingy
    ou
    ***i
    saytomysel
    f.
    ..
    ideci
    detosi
    tinsi
    det
    hecar
    forabi
    tthent
    henmyst upi
    dsel
    fdeci
    desto
    openmycardoor**
    *
    Me:
    sh#t
    !
    ***
    isaidasigotoutofthecarandtookast
    ep
    cl
    osertothehomelesshobolooki
    ng
    man...
    F3#kthesmellcomingfr
    om himis
    horr
    ibl
    e***
    Me:
    ashee(hi
    ).
    ..
    arey
    ouok….
    ummm
    *
    **i
    lookedar
    oundt
    henl
    ookedbackathi
    m**
    *
    Me:
    arey
    ouhungr
    y
    ***
    themandidntanswermehej ustsl
    owl
    y
    rai
    sedhi
    sheadandl ookedupatmeanddear
    Lordial
    mostfai
    nted….t
    hisi
    sthesameguyi
    sawinmydreamsorv isi
    ons….
    theguymade
    gest
    urespeopl
    emakewhent
    heyaskf
    orf
    ood
    andiswall
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Me:
    umm ohhokl
    etme…umm
    ***
    iwentt othecarandopenedt hebackseat
    andtookmyempt ylunchboxandopenedt he
    boxofpi zzaandtookoutsl i
    cesofpizzaand
    putthem onmyl unchboxandt urnedandwent
    togivei
    tt ohim….hequicklytookitandst
    arted
    eati
    ngfast ,
    shame...
    afterhewasdonehegav e
    met helunchboxandhegotupandwal ked
    away ….
    nodankienyanav elemxm * **
    Me:
    hey
    ….sor
    ry.
    ..
    abut
    i
    ***hej
    ustkeptwalki
    nglimpingabit
    ..
    .damn
    he’shugeli
    keagiant.
    ..
    iswearit
    sli
    kehe’sfr
    om
    Nigeri
    a,Ghana,
    Congoet c.
    ..
    yeahhi
    sheightand
    bodystruct
    urebel
    ongsthere***
    Me:
    Gosh.
    ..
    Voi
    ce:
    hel
    pmyson.
    ..
    pleasehel
    phi
    m
    ***ashakyvoicesai
    dandi qui
    cklyturned
    aroundtoseewhosai dthatbutthereisno
    one….iqui
    cklytur
    nedtolookatthedi r
    ecti
    ont
    he
    manwentandhe’ snoti
    nsite*
    **
    Me: okhewasher eri
    ght
    ….heat
    emypizza….
    i
    meani m st
    il
    l hol
    dingmynowemptylunch
    box….myancest orsyousawhimri
    ght
    ..
    .i
    m not
    l
    osingmymi ndright
    ….
    *
    **i
    saidt
    omysel
    ffeel
    i
    ngl
    i
    kei
    m aboutt
    olose
    mymind*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    NARRATED
    ***Alphal
    ettewal kedinsi
    deMasai ’swardand
    foundherasl eep…. AJisnowwi thMoer a,ittook
    al otofconvincingf r
    om Alphal
    ettetotakeAJ
    from hismot her….shet r
    iedall
    thet r
    ickst o
    makehi ml etherhav ehimf orafewday sbut
    Alphalett
    ecoul dntbuthepr omisedtobr inghim
    toheragai n….Hest oodnexttothebedand
    l
    ookedathersl eepinglookingsoinnocent ***
    Masai
    :you’
    rebei
    ngcr
    eepyy
    ouknow
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ithoughty
    ou’
    reasl
    eep
    Masai
    :yourper
    fumegav
    eyouaway
    Alpha:i
    tsni
    cetober
    ecogni
    zednotonl
    ybyy
    our
    handsomelooks
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edr
    oll
    i
    ngherey
    es*
    **
    Masai
    :whosai
    dyou’
    rehandsome
    Al
    pha:
    mymot
    her
    Masai
    :ohoi
    tsherdut
    ytol
    i
    etoherchi
    l
    dto
    boosthi
    ssel
    fest
    eem andconf
    idence
    **
    *Alphal
    ett
    elaughedshowi
    nghi
    sbeaut
    if
    ul
    whit
    eteeth*
    **
    Masai:el
    egorewher edoTsongaguysget
    suchbeauti
    ful
    teeth(wheredoTsongaguys
    getsuchbeauti
    ful
    teeth)
    ***
    shesaidt
    oher
    sel
    fandAl
    phal
    ett
    elaughed
    again*
    **
    Masai
    :sh#tIsai
    dthatoutl
    oud?
    ?
    ***
    henodded….
    thenhisfacebecame
    seri
    ous….
    hecoul
    dn’tbeli
    evet
    hatthi
    sist
    he
    samewomanhet reatedli
    ket
    rash**
    *
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:wi
    l
    lyouev
    erf
    orgi
    veme
    Masai
    :huh?
    *
    **shewasconf
    used*
    **
    Al
    phalet
    te:whatIdi
    dtoy
    oubackt
    henwi
    l
    lyou
    ev
    erforgi
    veme
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Masai
    :why
    ..
    .whydi
    dyout
    reatmel
    i
    ket
    hat
    ***
    hesi
    ghedandsatdownthenher
    ubbedhi
    s
    handst
    oget
    herl
    ookingdown**
    *
    Alphal ett
    e: al
    lIcansayi swemetatthewr ong
    placeandatt hewr ongti
    me….iwentthereto
    releasest r ess..
    .mybr ot
    her…Stev
    ens….f#ck#d
    myt henf ianceeandgotherpr egnant….iwasnt
    i
    nt her ightst ateofmi ndandmyai m wasto
    meetasl ayqueenorev enaprosti
    tut
    et o
    releaseandof f
    loadonherthenpayher
    afterwar ds
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Masai
    :soIl
    ookedl
    i
    keapr
    ost
    it
    ute
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:what
    ….nono…
    ***
    hesaidl
    ookingupatherthent
    hedoor
    openedandherdoct
    orwalkedin*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:sh!
    t…
    ***
    hisphoner
    angandhelookedatMasai
    and
    shewaslooki
    ngawayfr
    om him***
    Doct
    or:
    aft
    ernoon
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:doc
    *
    **hel
    ookedatMasai
    agai
    n**
    *
    Alphal
    ett
    e:I’
    ll
    cally
    oul at
    er.
    ..
    pleaseanswery
    our
    phonesowecanf i
    nishthi
    stalkbefor
    ethat
    misunderst
    andingruinus
    *
    **t
    henhewal
    kedoutanswer
    inghi
    sphone*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    THEFOLLOWI
    NGDAY

    *
    **Hi
    ll
    sdidntsl
    eepawi
    nklastni
    ghtandto
    makethi
    ngsworseDor
    ismadehersleepatt
    he
    apartmentwi t
    hherphoneof f
    ….r
    ightnowshe’ s
    ti
    red,sl
    eepyandner v
    ous..
    .shewonder showt he
    meet i
    ngwi l
    lgoknowinghowmuchDor i
    sand
    hermot herinlawhat
    eeachot her….
    Shesi ghed
    deeplyasthecardroveinsideheryardand
    therearetwomor ecarsparkedinsi
    de***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    “Godpl
    easet
    akecont
    rol
    ”
    ***shesil
    entl
    ysai
    dwithhereyesclosedbr
    ief
    ly
    thensheopenedthedoorandwal kedoutthen
    shef ol
    lowedMoeraandDoristothe
    door….Dori
    sdidn’
    tev
    enknockshej ustwal
    ked
    i
    nf oll
    owedbyherdaughter
    s***
    MmaTar
    ek:
    lookwhatt
    hecatdr
    aggedi
    n..
    .nxa
    ***
    Hil
    lslookeddownwhenhereyesmetwit
    h
    herhusband’sandDor
    isf
    rownedlooki
    ngat
    MmaTar ek*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    thosewi
    thoutassshoul
    djustshuti
    t.
    ..
    nxa
    **
    *shewalkedf
    urt
    heri
    nthenHil
    lsandMoer a
    gr
    eetedt
    heelder
    sbutonl
    yTarek’
    sfatherand
    hi
    suncl
    efr
    om hi
    smot
    her
    ’ssi
    degr
    eet
    ed*
    **
    Dor
    is:comesi
    ther
    e
    *
    **t
    heywentandsatnextt
    othei
    rmot
    her
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    TheMt
    hembus
    *
    **t
    hemengr
    eet
    edherback*
    **
    Dori
    s:i
    m gonnagost r
    aighttothemat t
    ersinceI
    havepl
    acestobe….im hereconcer
    ningmy
    daught
    erShalat
    e..
    .y
    ourdaughterinlaw….she
    tol
    dmeaboutherhusband’ sshenanigansand
    i
    m heretohearfr
    om thehorsesmout habout
    whathetol
    dmydaught er
    MmaTar
    ek:
    aski
    es
    Dori
    s:Mazwakheim notheretofightor
    exchangewor
    dswithy ourwif
    e..
    .please
    repr
    imandhercausey ouknowhowr ott
    enmy
    mouthis
    *
    **Mazwakhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    Tar
    ekwear
    eher
    ebecauseofy
    ou
    andwhaty
    oudi
    dsoanswerher
    MmaTar ek:
    mysondoesnthav et
    oanswerto
    them Mazwakhe….
    shefai
    l
    edt ogi
    vehim achi
    l
    d
    andhewentt ol
    ookforasecondwif
    etodo
    so..
    .si
    mple
    Dor
    is:
    isi
    t
    MmaTar
    ek:
    yes
    Dor
    is:
    ok
    *
    **shel
    ookedatTar
    ek*
    **
    Dori
    s:andyoust
    il
    lstandbyyourdeci
    sionof
    t
    akingyourpr
    egnantsidechi
    ckasyoursecond
    wif
    e
    *
    **Tar
    eksi
    ghed*
    **
    Tarek:
    canItal
    ktomywi
    feinpr
    ivat
    efi
    rst
    ….i
    needtotal
    ktomywif
    efi
    rst
    Dori
    s:ok….
    Shal
    egot
    alkt
    oyourhusband
    nt
    omboo
    ***
    Shalat
    el ookedatDori
    sconfusedandshe
    gotupslowl yj
    ustasTarekdi
    dandt heywent
    outsi
    dethroughthesidi
    ngdoor***
    Tar
    ek:
    soy
    out
    oldherhuh
    **
    *shedi
    dntsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustf
    oldedher
    ar
    msandlookedaway**
    *
    Tar
    ek:
    doy
    ouev
    enl
    ovemeShal
    ate
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    lookatwho’
    stal
    ki
    ng….
    Tar
    ek:what sthatsupposedtomeanhuh…. y
    ou
    di
    dntsleepathomel astni
    ght.
    ..
    iwasworr
    ied
    si
    ckcalli
    ngy ouandy ourphonewassendi
    ng
    mestraighttovoicemail
    Hill
    s:andit
    sokf ory
    outosl
    eepout
    sideaker
    e….
    It
    sokf oryoutoruntoy
    ourhoeandleav
    emeall
    aloneinthehouse
    Tar
    ek:
    shehadcr
    ampsand…
    Hil
    ls:Idontcar
    eifsheevendiedal
    ongwiththat
    bastardshe’
    scarry
    ing.
    ..
    idontcar
    e….i
    m done
    wit
    hthi
    ssham ofamar
    ri
    age….
    im done
    Tar
    ek..
    .done!
    !!
    ***
    shesai
    dwitht
    earsrunni
    ngdownhercheeks
    andhechuckl
    edshaki
    nghishead*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    you’
    recal
    l
    ingmychi
    l
    dabast
    ardShal
    ate
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    you’
    l
    lhearf
    rom myl
    awy
    er….
    ***
    shewalkedawaybutTar
    ekgr
    abbedherar
    m
    andti
    ght
    enedthegri
    p***
    Tarek: soy ouwantedmet ost ayfai
    thf
    ul toa
    barrenwomanandmi ssachanceofbei nga
    fat
    her ….you’r
    eherecall
    ingmysonabast ardbut
    youf ail
    edt ogivemeone…. she’snoteven
    mar ri
    edt omebutshe’ sgivingmesomet hingI
    l
    ongt ohav e….
    inst
    eadofmaki ngt hi
    swor k
    you’reher ethr
    owingtantr
    umsandact i
    ng
    chi
    ldish
    *
    **hesaidangri
    lyandshel ookedathim wit
    h
    moretearsgushi
    ngout .
    ..
    shecouldntbel
    ievehe
    j
    ustcall
    edherbarren.
    ..
    thatbrokeherhearteven
    mor
    e**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:thenl
    etthi
    sbar
    renwomango…. t
    his
    marr
    iagei
    sover….
    nowgetyourhandsoffme
    *
    **Tar
    ekchuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    whodoy
    out
    hinkwi
    l
    llov
    eyouot
    hert
    han
    meShalat
    e
    Voi
    ce:
    herf
    ami
    l
    y
    ***
    theytur
    nedanditwasMoer
    a..
    .she’
    s
    angry….
    mad-angr
    y***
    Moer
    a:l
    etsgoHi
    l
    ls….
    ***
    shel ookedatTar
    ekwi
    thanangr
    ylookon
    herface***
    Moer
    a:i
    fIwer
    eyouIwoul
    dletherar
    m go
    *
    **Tar
    ekchuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Tarek:yougonnacomeback…..
    youl
    oveme
    Shalat
    e….iownyourhear
    tthesamewayyou
    ownmi ne….t
    hisi
    shomef oryou
    *
    **hesai
    dhi
    tt
    inghi
    schest
    ***
    Tar
    ek:
    andy
    ouknowi
    t
    *
    **hel
    ethergoandshewal
    kedi
    nsi
    de*
    **
    Moer
    a:wat
    chy
    ourbackwena
    *
    **t
    henshef
    oll
    owedHi
    l
    lsi
    nsi
    de*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    baby
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im.
    ..
    goi
    ngt
    o..
    .packmyt
    hings
    *
    **shesaidwi
    thabreakingvoi
    ceandt
    ear
    s
    r
    unningdownhercheeks***
    MmaTar
    ek:
    mxm
    Moer
    a:l
    etsgo
    *
    **t
    heywal
    kedaway
    ***
    MmaTarek:
    shebet
    ternott
    akeany
    thi
    ngt
    hat
    bel
    ongstomyson
    Mazwakhe:
    Khet
    hiwe!
    !
    Uncl
    e:si
    sit
    hisi
    snothowy
    oubehav
    einf
    rontof
    t
    hei
    nlaws
    MmaTarek:Ineverl
    i
    kedthi
    sgi
    rlf
    ormysonso
    whyshoul
    dIpr et
    endnow
    *
    **Dor
    isl
    aughed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    say
    sacheat
    ingwhor
    e
    MmaTar
    ek:
    uthi
    niwena(whatdi
    dyousay
    )
    Doris:maybeyoushoul dgetdownfr
    om your
    highhorseandtellyourhusbandwhofat
    hered
    yout woyoungestchil
    dren….i
    meanyourtwins
    ***shegotupandpickedherhandbagasthe
    room becametense…..Khet
    hiwefr
    ozeand
    becamepal ei
    nstant
    ly**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    MaxKhoza….
    ri
    ngsabel
    lnt
    omboo?
    ??
    ***
    Khet
    hiweswal
    l
    owedhar
    dtr
    yingt
    okeep
    cal
    m***
    MmaTarek:
    I..
    .i
    ..
    .idontknowwhaty
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ng
    about
    Dori
    s:mxm….ihaveal
    l yourf
    il
    es
    ntomboo….
    conti
    nuetreati
    ngmydaughterl
    i
    ke
    tr
    ashandI’
    l
    lendthissham ofamarr
    iagenxa
    *
    **Shef
    oll
    owedt
    hegi
    rl
    s**
    *
    Uncl
    e:Khet
    hiwewhati
    sshet
    alki
    ngabout
    Khet
    hi:shehat
    esmebhut
    isoshe’
    l
    lsay
    anyt
    hingtomakemefi
    ghtwi
    thmyhusband
    **
    *theunclelookedathert
    henatMazwakhe
    whowasl ookingdown***
    Uncl
    e:Sbar
    i
    ***
    Mazwakhegotupandwenttothebackyar
    d
    wherehi
    ssonisandhefoundhimlooki
    ng
    downwithhi
    shandsontoponhisheadandhis
    el
    bowsonhisthi
    ghs*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    I’
    veneverbeendi
    sappoi
    ntedi
    nyou
    l
    ikeIam wi
    thyounow
    *
    **Tar
    ekcl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    goodl
    uckwi
    thy
    ourdeci
    sions
    *
    **het
    urnedr
    eadyt
    owal
    kaway
    ***
    Tar
    ek:
    baba
    *
    **hest
    opped*
    **
    Tar
    ek:shel
    ovesme….shejustneedstocal
    m
    downandreal
    izet
    hatwecanmakei twor
    k….i
    havegr
    eatpl
    ansforusshejustneedstotr
    ust
    me
    *
    **hi
    sfat
    herchuckl
    edf
    eel
    i
    ngsor
    ryf
    orhi
    m**
    *
    Mazwakhe:Iwasoncel
    i
    keyou….
    andguess
    what….
    .shenev
    ercamebackt
    ome...
    iwatched
    anot
    hermanmakeherhappy
    Tar
    ek:
    notShal
    ate.
    ..
    shel
    ovesmeandIknowi
    t
    *
    **hesai
    dsoundi
    ngsur
    eofhi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Mazwakhe:youseet hosetwowoment hey’
    ll
    makesuresheforgetsy ou….ev
    enifitmeans
    shemovestoanot herconti
    nentt odosothey
    wil
    lmakeithappen….thi
    st i
    mear oundyoujust
    shoty
    oursel
    font hefootmyboy
    ***
    thenhewalkedawayleav
    ingTar
    ekt
    hinki
    ng
    aboutwhathejustsai
    dtohi
    m* *
    *

    I
    NSI
    DETHEHOUSE

    Khet
    hiwe:
    baba
    ***
    Mazwakhewalkedpassedhert
    owardst
    he
    doorandout
    sidehewentandKhethi
    we
    swall
    owedhard**
    *
    Uncl
    e:wenzeni
    Khet
    hiwe(whatdi
    dyoudo
    Khet
    hiwe)
    Khet
    hiwe:
    letmegocheckonmyson
    ***shewalkedawayignor i
    ngherbr other
    …..af
    ter
    somet i
    meDor i
    s, MoeraandHi ll
    swal keddown
    stair
    swithherbags..
    .hereyesar ebloodshotred
    andswollen….theywalkedst r
    aighttothedoor
    andwalkedout…Tar ekswal l
    owedhar dwhen
    hesawt hatshedidn’
    tev enlookhisway ***
    MmaTarek:
    dontwor
    rysoonyou’
    l
    lforgetabout
    her
    ..
    .umamakaboyi
    stheret
    ocomf ortyou
    Tarek:didIsayIwantt
    oforgetabout
    her!
    !!
    ….justt
    akeyourbr
    otherandleav
    emy
    house!!
    !
    *
    **hesnappedatherandhegotupandwent
    i
    nsi
    de….hetookhi
    scarkeysandwal
    kedout*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    TOBECONTI
    NUED….

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER08
    .
    .
    .
    NARRATED

    TWODAYSLATER

    ***WellMasai gotdischar gedandshe’ snow


    backatt heapartment ….Asf orHi ll
    sev ersince
    theyleftherhouseshehasn’ tbeenher sel
    fand
    Dorissuggestedt hatshel eav eswi thhert o
    keepacl oseey eonherunt ilshe’ssureshe’ s
    backt oherusual selfagai n…. Theyar eal l
    wor r
    iedaboutherandt hef actt hatshehas
    closedev er
    yoneouti sn’ thel ping….Anyway
    Masai andMoer awal kedi nsi deDor i
    s’
    s
    bedroom andt heyf i
    ndherr epackingher
    cl
    othesni
    cel
    yinsi
    dehert
    rav
    eli
    ngbag.
    ..
    she’
    s
    neatl
    iket
    hat
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    keng(what
    )
    Moer
    a:ummm ma.
    ..
    there’
    ssomethi
    ngwe….
    i
    meanMasai
    want
    stot al
    ktoyouabout
    ***
    Dorisf
    rownedwhi
    l
    eMasai
    swal
    l
    owed
    hard*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    Ihopey
    ou’
    renotpr
    egnantagai
    nMasai
    Masai
    :bat
    hongmamanoi
    m not
    Dor
    is:
    goodnowkeng(whati
    sit
    )
    *
    **Masaisi
    ghedandl
    ookeddownbi
    ti
    ngher
    l
    owerl
    ip*
    * *
    Moer
    a:shef
    oundherbabydaddy
    *
    **shesai
    dqui
    ckl
    yandMasaigavehert
    he
    “
    wtf”l
    ookandMoeraj
    ustshr
    ugged*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    foundhi
    m wher
    e
    *
    **Masai
    breat
    hedoutl
    oud….
    itwasnowor
    nev
    er*
    **
    Masai
    :webumpedi
    ntohi
    m att
    hegr
    ocer
    yst
    ore
    andKhai
    cri
    edf
    orhi
    m
    *
    **Dor
    isputherscar
    fdownwi
    thaconf
    used
    f
    rownonherface***
    Dor
    is:
    expl
    ainf
    urt
    hercausei
    m conf
    used
    Moera:
    keNgakamama(he’ saTr
    adi
    ti
    onal
    Heal
    ermama)andIdontknowhowbutKhai
    r
    ecogni
    zedhi
    m….hecri
    edforhi
    m
    Dor
    is:
    Modimowakgotso...
    NgakaMasai
    (Lor
    d
    ormercy
    ….aTr
    adi
    ti
    onalHealerMasai
    )
    Masai
    :Idi
    dntknowhewasonemama
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngscar
    ed*
    **
    Moer
    a:hedoesn’
    tlookl
    i
    keonemama
    Dori
    s:youknowwhatIdontcar ei
    fhe’sa
    sangoma, moloiormmamogashwa(a
    tr
    adit
    ionalhealer
    ,wit
    chorevenawater
    spi
    rit
    )….t
    ellhi
    mt hatheneedst
    obeher ewi
    thi
    n
    anhourorI
    ’
    llgofi
    ndhi
    m mysel
    fandri
    phis
    bal
    l
    soffwit
    hmyownt wohandsforwhathedi
    d
    tomydaughter
    *
    **t
    hegi
    rl
    sswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Moer
    a:t
    hat
    snotal
    lmama
    Dor
    is:
    whati
    sitnow
    Masai:
    he’
    sSt
    evensel
    derbr
    other
    ….wel
    lhal
    f
    br
    other
    Dor
    is:
    yhoAmen!
    !!
    ..
    .goandcal
    lhi
    m….
    now!
    ***
    Masai si
    ghedandwal
    kedoutt
    henMoer
    abi
    t
    herlowerli
    p**
    *
    Moer
    a:dontbetoohar
    shonhim
    mama….rememberhedi
    dn’
    tabandonorr
    eject
    t
    hepregnancy
    Dori
    s:whatdidIsayaboutgett
    ingi
    nvol
    vedi
    n
    t
    hingsthatdoesn’
    tconcer
    ny ou
    Moer
    a:she’
    smyt
    winmama
    Dor
    is:
    doy
    out
    woshar
    ekuku(apussy
    )anda
    womb
    Moer
    a:bat
    hongmama
    Dori
    s:di
    dthi
    sboyf
    #cky
    out
    ooandgety
    ou
    pr
    egnant
    *
    **Moer
    arai
    sedherhandsi
    ndef
    eat
    ***
    Moer
    a:y
    homamaIwasj
    ustsay
    ing
    Dori
    s:whatIwantt
    ohearfrom y
    ouisyou
    tel
    l
    ingmewheny ou’r
    eleav
    ingt
    hatusel
    essj
    ob
    ofyour
    sthenI’
    ll
    li
    sten
    Moer
    a:int
    womonthst
    imemama….renov
    ati
    ons
    atmycompanywi
    l
    lbedonebyt
    hen
    Dor
    is:
    nowy
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ng….
    .anddi
    cli
    ent
    s
    Moer
    a:Igoti
    tundercont
    rol
    don’
    twor
    ry
    Dori
    s:goodnowgoandcheckonShal at
    e….i
    dontwantherbei
    ngleftal
    oneforal
    ong
    ti
    me….she’
    sonasuicidestageandi
    m not
    taki
    nganychances
    Moer
    a:bat
    hongmama
    Dori
    s:Iwasoncether
    esoIknowwhati
    m
    t
    alki
    ngaboutgir
    ly
    *
    **Moer
    awal
    kedoutshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Moer
    a:di
    dyoucal
    lhi
    m
    *
    **Masai
    shookherheadno*
    **
    Masai:
    im scar
    ed...
    youknowmamaMo….
    yho
    she’
    sgonnagril
    lthepoorguy
    Moera:
    youhav
    enochoi
    ce.
    ..
    letmegocheckon
    Hi
    ll
    s
    ***
    shewalkedwayl
    eav
    ingMasaibusy
    contempl
    ati
    ngonwhet
    hert
    ocall
    Alphalet
    teor
    not***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE
    Al
    pha:
    how’
    syourst
    omach
    Mpande:
    muchbet
    terbuti
    tsst
    il
    lfeel
    sfunny
    *
    **hesai
    drubbi
    ngi
    t**
    *
    Mpande:
    nginenki
    nganomsuzonj
    e(i
    m hav
    ing
    t
    roubl
    ewithint
    ensefar
    ti
    ng)
    *
    **Al
    phal
    aughed*
    **
    Mpande:
    angisuzi
    angisuzi
    ngi
    yenzaumr
    ivi
    thi
    baf
    o(Icantstopfar
    ti
    ngbro)
    *
    **mor
    elaught
    erf
    rom Al
    phal
    ett
    te*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    woohok
    ***
    Mpandewhi
    stl
    eddr
    amat
    ical
    l
    yshaki
    nghi
    s
    head*
    **
    Mpande:
    ifIf
    artnowy
    ou’
    l
    lfai
    ntbaf
    oimt
    ell
    i
    ng
    you
    Al
    pha:
    thef
    art
    ingwi
    l
    lst
    opdon’
    twor
    ry
    Mpande:
    ehIhopesocausey
    eert
    hesmel
    li
    s
    hor
    ri
    ble
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ejustshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Alpha:Iwantt
    odoawelcomingcer
    emonyf
    or
    Juniorandtoal
    soi
    ntr
    oducehimtomy
    ancestors
    Mpande:
    that
    ’sgood.
    ..
    that
    ’sgood
    *
    **hesai
    dnoddi
    ngwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ooknhi
    s
    f
    ace**
    *
    Alpha:
    yeahit
    stimebutbef
    orethatIhav
    eto
    payfordamagesandmakethingsri
    ghtwit
    h
    Masaiandherfamil
    y
    Mapande:y
    eahandt
    ryandaski
    fhecanuse
    yoursur
    name
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghedbr
    ushi
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:y
    eah..
    .i
    vebeenthinki
    ngaboutt
    hatal
    ot
    l
    atel
    y….
    ij
    usthopethey
    ’ll
    agree
    Mpande:i
    ftheyl
    ovetheboyt
    heywil
    l.
    ..
    you’
    re
    notj
    ustl
    i
    keanyor di
    nar
    ymanAlpha….Andyour
    ancest
    orsar
    esav
    ageandst
    ubbor
    n
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:IjustwishGazankul
    uwasherewit
    h
    us….ei
    shIdontknowwhatt odoanymore
    mf owethu….i
    ’v
    et ri
    edever
    ythi
    ngandther
    esul
    ts
    arethesame…. he’
    l
    lcomeback
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Mpande:
    eishyahneh.
    ..
    butkuzol
    ungahav
    e
    f
    ait
    h(allwi
    llbewel
    lhavefai
    th)
    **
    *Tshepowal
    kedtothem….he’
    stheboy
    Al
    phalet
    tet
    ookinandtookcareof
    ***
    Tshepo:
    Uncl
    e
    *
    **hesai
    dast
    heydi
    dthei
    rwei
    rdhandshake*
    **
    Mpande:aowboy
    za….
    howwasny
    uvesi
    (
    uni
    versi
    ty)
    *
    **Tshepol
    aughed*
    **
    Tshepo:
    itwasok.
    ..
    babaunj
    ani
    (howar
    eyou
    baba)
    Al
    pha:
    boy
    za
    *
    **hesatdown*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youl
    ooksad….
    what
    swr
    ong
    *
    **Tsheposi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshepo:
    nyaopeshav
    etakenov
    erma’
    syar
    d
    baba
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    ait
    hoseaddict
    edleechesnxa.
    ..
    dont
    wor
    rywewil
    ltakecar
    eofitok
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Alpha:
    talk.
    ..
    icanseey
    ouwantt
    osay
    something
    *
    **hebr
    ushedhi
    sheadl
    ooki
    ngdown*
    **
    Mpande:umi
    thi
    sil
    emf
    ana(di
    dyoui
    mpr
    egnat
    e
    someoneboy
    )
    Tshepo:
    huh….
    ummm noof
    cour
    senotuncl
    e
    Mpande:
    thenwhati
    sit
    *
    **Tsheposi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshepo:
    Iwast
    hinki
    ng
    Mpande:hai
    ucabangakakhul
    utheseday
    sneh
    (y
    outhinkalott
    hesedaysneh)
    Tshepo:
    uncl
    e…
    Mpande:sor
    ryngiyadl
    ala.
    ..
    khul
    umake(sor
    ry
    i
    m ki
    dding.
    ..
    tal
    kthen)
    *
    **Tsheposi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshepo:i
    vebeensavi
    ngupsomemoneyf
    rom
    myallowancet
    oerectat
    ombstonef
    orma
    Al
    pha:
    ok….
    that
    sgoodmyboy
    ..
    .t
    hat
    sgood
    Tshepo:
    umm Isawacheaperonef
    orl
    i
    ke
    R5000
    Alpha:
    okIknowaplacewheret
    heysel
    lni
    ce
    onesandtheyar
    echeapaswellsowewil
    lgo
    tomorr
    owaf t
    ery
    ourcl
    asseshow’st
    hat
    *
    **Tsheposmi
    l
    edwi
    del
    y**
    *
    Tshepo:
    ok.
    ..
    thanky
    oubaba
    Al
    pha:
    nowgoandeatt
    henr
    est
    Tshepo:
    ok
    *
    **hegotupandwal
    kedawaysmi
    l
    ing.
    ..
    thi
    s
    meantalotf
    orhi
    m**
    *
    Mpande:
    he’
    sagoodboywi
    thagoodheadon
    hi
    sshoul
    der
    s
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    Ial
    readyboughtheragoodtombst
    one
    theonl
    ythi
    ngthatslef
    tisfori
    ttobeer
    ect
    ed….
    i
    wanttoseehisfacewhenheseesit
    *
    **Mpandesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    ncoohy
    ouhav
    eagoodhear
    tshems
    Al
    pha:
    tsek
    *
    **Mpandel
    aughed*
    **
    Mpande:
    sohowmuchdi
    dthet
    ombst
    onecost
    Al
    pha:
    40gr
    and
    *
    **Mpandewhi
    stl
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    yahnehsomedeadpeopl
    ear
    elucky
    shem
    Al
    pha:
    mxm
    Mpande: i
    tsthetr
    uth..
    .imeanyou’
    renoteven
    rel
    atedtoherorhersonbuty ou’
    respendi
    ng40
    grandforhertombstone
    Alpha:bloodmakesy our el
    atedMpandebut
    l
    oy alt
    ymakesy oufami l
    y.
    ..t
    hatshouldbey our
    mot toinli
    femor eespeciall
    ycausey ou’
    rein
    thetaxiindustry….
    itshouldbel oyal
    tyor
    nothing….thisboyeversinceItookhi mi nhas
    beennot hingbutloyaltome…. hehashadmy
    backev ent houghheshoul dn’t
    ….Heseesa
    fatherinmeandt hat’
    swhatIi ntendt obeto
    him
    Mpande:okIunder
    standbutbecar
    eful
    baf
    o….asformeevenifyou’
    rel
    oyalt
    omeI
    wontt
    rusty
    ou….
    i’
    vebeenbet
    ray
    edal otof
    t
    imesbefor
    esotr
    usttomeexpensi
    ve
    Al
    pha:
    andIunder
    stand
    ***
    Alpha’
    sphonerangandi
    twasMasai.
    ..
    his
    heartski
    ppedabeatt
    henhecl
    ear
    edhisthroat
    andheanswer ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    mama
    **
    *Mpandewi
    ggl
    edhi
    sey
    ebr
    owssmi
    l
    ingat
    hi
    m***
    Masai
    :heyPhal
    ett
    e
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    ouok
    Masai:
    yeahumm Itol
    dmamaabouty
    ou….
    that
    you’
    reAJ’
    sfat
    herandstuf
    f
    Al
    pha:
    ok.
    ..
    howdi
    dshet
    aket
    henews
    Masai
    :l
    etsjustsayy
    ouhaveaboutanhourt
    o
    makei
    there….shewant
    stoseeyouasinnow
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    oki
    m onmyway
    Masai
    :andPhal
    ett
    e??
    ?
    Al
    pha:
    yeah
    Masai
    :bepr
    epar
    edf
    orany
    thi
    ng….
    she’
    scr
    azy
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    thanksf
    ort
    heheadsup
    Masai
    :okshap
    Al
    pha:
    shap
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    landAl
    phal
    ett
    erubbedhi
    s
    f
    ace**
    *
    Mpande:
    what
    Al
    pha:
    mot
    heri
    nlawwant
    stoseeme
    *
    **Mpandel
    aughed*
    **
    Mpande:
    ayey
    e
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    say
    sshe’
    scr
    azy
    Mpande:
    canIcomewi
    th….
    ineedt
    oseeMoer
    a
    Al
    pha:
    real
    l
    yMpande
    Mpande:
    what
    Al
    pha:
    mxm
    *
    **hegotupandwal
    kedaway
    ***
    Mpande:youcantgott
    her
    ealonewhatifshe
    att
    acksyou.
    ..
    youneedmyprotect
    ionandplusI
    needtoseeMoeraman
    *
    **hesai
    dalsoget
    ti
    ngupandf
    oll
    owi
    nghi
    mto
    t
    hehouse**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    NARRATED

    TSHI
    MOLOGO
    ***Shecl osedthedoorandl ockedi tand
    automat i
    callyopenedhergat erushi ngt othe
    garage….she’slate..
    .shesleptlatelastni ght
    bingewat chingaser i
    esonNet f
    li
    xandnowt he
    repercussionsaregonnagetherawar ningat
    wor k….Assoonasshewal kspastt hegat e
    rushingtoopent hegar agedoorsomet hing
    outsidethegat ecatchesherey e….shest opson
    hert r
    acksandmov est owardsthegat eandy ep
    i
    tst hathoboguyl ayingont hepav ement * *
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    no.
    ..
    no….
    no
    *
    **shesai
    dshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    hel
    l
    o….
    .hel
    l
    ooo
    ***
    theguydoesntmovethenherhear
    tstar
    ts
    beati
    ngfast
    ….whati
    fhe’
    sdead“shethought”
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    abut
    i….
    hel
    l
    o
    ***
    shesaidmovi
    ngclosertohim andsti
    llt
    he
    guydoesntmove….
    sher eachesforher
    cel
    lphonei
    nsi
    deherbagandqui ckl
    ylookedup
    whensheheardav
    oiceofawomanspeaki
    ngi
    n
    f
    rontofher
    ***
    Woman:pl
    easesav
    ehi
    m….
    im beggi
    ngy
    ou
    pl
    easesav
    emyson
    ***
    itwasawomanbeggedcry
    ing….
    .shelooked
    sad….y
    oucoul
    dseehur
    tall
    overherface**
    *
    Woman: pl
    easedon’ tcallanambulance…. he
    wontmakeiti ft
    heyinjecthim wit
    ht heir
    medici
    ne….
    pleasesav ehim…. healhim my
    daught
    erandhi sancestorsandmy selfwewi l
    l
    blessy
    ou….pleasemydaught er
    ….hedoesnt
    havemucht i
    me…. nakokombel a(im beggi ng
    you)
    ***shepleadedwithTshi
    moget ti
    ngonher
    kneesandTshi moswal l
    owedhard….shelooked
    aroundandf orsomeoddr easonthewereno
    peopleont hestr
    eet….
    it
    sjusttooquietf
    orher
    l
    iking**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    im notanur
    se….
    yesIwor
    katt
    he
    hospi
    tal
    buti
    m notanur
    semama
    Woman:pleasehel
    phi
    m mydaught
    er….
    im
    beggi
    ngyouhedoesn’
    thav
    emuchtime
    Tshi
    mo:
    don’
    tdoi
    tTshi
    mo….
    pleasedon’
    tdoi
    t….
    *
    **shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    f**
    *
    Tshimo:AAARGGG….
    F#CK!!
    !….
    .idon’tknowwhy
    thi
    sishappeni
    ngt
    omebuty ouhav esome
    expl
    aini
    ngtodomyancest
    ors….
    i canttaket
    his
    anymore
    ***Shethenrushedtotheguyandt hesmell
    comi ngfr
    om him washorri
    ble….
    sheclosedher
    eyesandhel dherbreat
    handputhert wo
    fi
    nger sonthesideofhisnecktofeelhi
    spul
    se
    andluckil
    yitsther
    e***
    Tshi
    mo:
    pheeewww
    **
    *shesai
    dasshemov
    edbackt
    ocat
    chher
    br
    eath*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    howt
    hehel
    lam Igonnahel
    phi
    m….
    how
    am Igonnadr
    aghi
    minsi
    de….
    he’
    sagi
    ant
    bat
    hong
    ***
    shesaidt
    ohersel
    ffeel
    i
    ngf
    rust
    rated….she
    l
    ookedatthewomanbutshewasjustlooking
    athersoncr
    ying*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:thi
    nkTshi
    mo.
    ..
    thi
    nk….
    ummm r
    ight
    ….ok
    Ihopei
    tworks
    **
    *Sheturnshi
    m ar
    oundandgrabshi
    m under
    hi
    sarmpit
    sanddraggedhi
    minsidet
    heyard**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    MASAI

    **
    *Ther e’saknockont hedoorandmyhear t
    st
    art
    sbeat i
    ngf astcausethatmightbe
    Al
    phalette….Moer agetsupandgoest ocheck
    whoitis….afteraf ewsecondsshewalkedin
    wi
    thhi
    m…. damnhel
    ookshot
    ….goshst
    opi
    t
    Masa.
    ..
    stopit
    ***
    Moer
    a:ar
    eyour
    eadybabydaddy
    *
    **shewhi
    sper
    edt
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Me:
    Mo
    Moer
    a:keng(what
    )
    ***
    i gavet
    he“wt
    f”l
    ookandshej
    ust
    shrugged*
    **
    Moer
    a:MaKhai
    ’
    sdadi
    sher
    e!!
    !
    *
    **sheshout
    ed*
    **
    Me:
    youbi
    atch!
    !!
    *
    **i
    whi
    sper
    edt
    ohergi
    vi
    ngherameanl
    ook*
    **
    Moer
    a:s#ckmyd#ckbi
    atch
    **
    *shestuckhertongueoutatmeandlaughed
    walki
    ngaway.
    ..
    nxa….Alphasatdown….
    goshI
    di
    dntevenoff
    erhi
    m aseat .
    ..
    yhoMasai
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    whydi
    dnty
    out
    ell
    mey
    ouwer
    e
    di
    schar
    ged
    Me:umm t
    here’
    sal otgoi
    ngon…. mysisterHil
    ls
    i
    snotoksoeveryt
    hingjusthappenedsof ast
    andwewereall
    wor ri
    edaboutherthatitsli
    pped
    mymind
    *
    **goshwhyam Ir
    umbl
    i
    ngl
    i
    ket
    his*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    didsomet
    hinghappent
    oher
    Me:
    ummm pr
    obl
    emsi
    nhermar
    ri
    age
    ***
    ihopeheget
    sit
    scauset
    hat
    sal
    lIcan
    share*
    **
    Al
    pha:oohIgeti
    t….
    dontwor
    rywi
    tht
    imeshe’
    l
    l
    befi
    ne
    ***ij
    ustnoddedandmamagr aceduswi thher
    presencehol dingKhaiinherar msandassoon
    asthisbetray erseeshisfatherhescreamed
    andwi ggl
    edoutofma’ shol dandr ushedto
    hi
    m…. Alphalet t
    epickshim upandhugshi m
    smili
    ngwi dely ….
    ncoohthisiscut ebutthatl
    ook
    onma’
    sfacei
    sdeadl
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    MrsRapu…
    Me:
    MrsJohnson…
    *
    **i
    cor
    rect
    edhi
    m qui
    ckl
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:r
    ight
    ..
    .Mr
    sJohnsoni
    tsni
    cet
    ofi
    nal
    l
    y
    meety
    ou
    Dor
    is:
    mmmhIhopey
    oudi
    dn’
    tusewi
    tchcr
    aft
    onmygrandson
    Me:
    mama
    Dor
    is:
    kengwena(what
    )
    ***
    yhoIkeptqui
    et.
    ..
    Godpl
    easet
    akecont
    rol
    I’
    m
    beggi
    ngyou***
    Doris:Imeanhe’sknowny ouforli
    ketwo
    secondsandalreadyhe’sscreamingpapaasif
    neomot i
    isaphuwanawhenMasaIwasst il
    l
    pregnant(asifyouwer esleepi
    ngwithMasai
    whenshewasst i
    ll
    pregnant)
    ***Goshletmedi ethi
    sinst
    ance….please..
    .l
    et
    me. .
    .y
    hot hi
    swoman….Al phal
    ett
    ej ustclear
    ed
    histhroatI’
    m surehedoesn’
    tevenknowhowt o
    respondt othat
    ***
    Dori
    s:banabadionenightstandtsagotlhoka
    condom….bonaotshwanaby anglewenaekar e
    neoganamol at
    o(oneni ghtstandbabi
    es
    wit
    houtacondom….lookathowhel ookslike
    youasifyoudeni
    edhim)
    Me:
    mama
    Dor
    is:
    kengMasai
    (whatMasai
    )
    Me:
    pleasedon’
    t…
    Dor
    is:
    don’
    twhat
    ***
    i j
    ustkeptquietembarrassedtothe
    core….Al
    phalet
    teclearedhisthroat
    ..
    .y
    oucan
    nowseehe’ suncomf ort
    able***
    Alpha:
    ummm fir
    stl
    yIwouldl
    iket
    oapologi
    ze
    forhowIt
    reat
    edyourdaught
    erMrsJohnson….
    i
    wishIdidt
    hingsdi
    ff
    erent
    lyandIhumbl
    y
    apologi
    ze
    Dor
    is:
    whatIwantt
    oknowi
    swhy
    *
    **y
    ho*
    **

    NARRATED

    Al
    pha:t
    het r
    uthi
    sIfoundoutt
    hatmybrother
    sl
    eptwit
    hmyt henfi
    anceandgotherpr
    egnant
    soIwenttoCapetowntounwindandoff
    load….
    ***
    hel
    ookedatMasai
    whowasl
    ooki
    ng
    down*
    **
    Alpha:thetrut
    hisIwasl ooki
    ngforsl
    ayqueens
    tohav efunwithbutIgothookedtoMasai .
    ..
    i
    couldseeshe’ si
    nnocentandnotthekindof
    womanIshoul ddowhatIwantt odowi t
    hbutI
    couldn’thel
    pmy sel
    f….i
    gotdraggedtoherand
    herpersonalit
    y….
    iregr
    ettedwhatIdidtoherbut
    mymi st
    akewasmyr eact
    ion…..
    ishoul
    d’
    vebeen
    nicerbutIpani
    ckedandkickedheroutwhi
    chI’
    l
    l
    foreverr
    egret
    Dor
    is:
    mmmh
    Alpha:thethi
    ngisim wil
    li
    ngtowaitf
    orherto
    heal ma….f
    rom whatIdidtoherandwhatmy
    brotherdi
    dt oher
    ….iwannamakehermi neand
    bythatImeanmywi fe
    **
    * Masai
    ’
    seyespoppedoutandDor
    isr
    aisedan
    eyebrowl
    ooki
    ngathim**
    *
    Alpha:Idontcarewhatmyf amil
    ywil
    lsayor
    whatpeoplewi l
    lsaysinceshewasengagedto
    Stevens….i
    sawherf i
    rstandthi
    stimearoundi
    m
    notlett
    inghergo
    ***
    Moer aiseavesdr
    oppi
    ngsmil
    i
    ng….
    shefans
    hersel
    fblushi
    ngtakenbyAl
    pha’
    swor
    ds**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    mmmh
    *
    **shegotup*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    comeher
    eMasai
    *
    ***
    Masaigotupslowlyandwentclosert
    oher
    mot
    herandDorisbal
    ancedwithherandgoton
    t
    opofthecouchandstoodthere*
    **
    Masai
    :mamawhatar
    eyoudoi
    ng
    Dor
    is:
    shhhh.
    ..
    don’
    tmov
    e
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eisconf
    used*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    etl
    amo(comeher
    e)
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    egotupandwentcl
    osert
    oDor
    is
    l
    ooki
    ngfr
    eakedoutabi
    t**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    closerboy
    *
    **Al
    phalet
    tegotcloser
    ….Dor
    iswasabittal
    ler
    t
    hanhim nowthatshewasst andi
    ngontopof
    t
    hecouch….she’
    sashor twomanbynature.
    ..
    not
    t
    ooshortbutshort
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    lookmei
    ntheey
    es….
    dit
    abadi
    mat
    lhong
    boy
    ***
    Alphadidwhil
    eMasaiwishedfort
    hegr
    ound
    toopenandshejustdi
    vesinandhide
    for
    ever….
    Dori
    slookedatherwit
    hascaryl
    ook
    onherface**
    *
    Dori
    s:i
    fyouhur
    tmydaughterandpreci
    ous
    gr
    andsonIwil
    lputabul
    l
    etbetweenyoureyes
    l
    ookingaty
    ouli
    kethi
    sunti
    lyoutakeyourl
    ast
    br
    eath….
    **
    * shesai
    dpoint
    ingatherareabet
    weenher
    eyeswithheri
    ndexfi
    nderlooki
    ngscar
    y**
    *
    Masai
    :ooohGODt
    akemenow
    *
    **shesai
    dtohersel
    flooki
    ngdownr
    eadyt
    odi
    e
    f
    rom embarr
    assment***
    Al
    pha:
    ye.
    ..
    yesmam
    Dori
    s:Idontcar
    ei fyourf
    atherisMamogashwa
    (awaterspir
    it
    )andy ougotinit
    iat
    edfor12
    year
    sunderwat er,y
    ouhurtmybabi esI’
    l
    lcome
    aft
    eryougunsbl azi
    ngok
    *
    **Al
    phaswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    yesmam
    Dor
    is:
    nowi
    tchcr
    aftonmybabi
    esboy
    Al
    pha:
    yesmam
    Dori
    s:andIknowr el
    ati
    onshi
    pswill
    haveups
    anddownsandf ight
    sandsof or
    th.
    ..
    im not
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutthat….i
    m surey
    ouknowwhati m
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutrightboy
    Alpha:
    yesmam Iknowwhaty
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ng
    about
    Dor
    is:
    goodgladweont
    hesamepage….
    hel
    p
    medownfrom her
    e
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ehel
    pedherdownandshesmi
    l
    ed
    l
    ooki
    ngathi
    m***
    Dor
    is:
    Ili
    key
    ou.
    ..
    takecar
    eofmybabi
    esok
    Al
    pha:
    Iwi
    l
    lIpr
    omi
    se
    Dor
    is:
    good….
    Masai
    giv
    ehi
    m somet
    hingt
    o
    dr
    ink
    ***
    Masai hel
    dherheadfeel
    ingdizzyal
    lofa
    suddenandshet hr
    ewherselfonthe
    couch.
    ..
    Alpharushedt
    oher***
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    ouokmama
    Dor
    is:
    MissLuLu?
    ??
    Masai
    :mama
    *
    **shesai
    dtr
    yingt
    ocal
    m her
    sel
    fdown*
    **
    Dori
    s:i
    m donet
    hreat
    eni
    ngy
    ourmannowcal
    m
    downhaw….Moera!
    !!
    Moer
    a:mama
    Dor
    is:
    bri
    ngMasai
    ’
    smedi
    cat
    ion
    *
    **Shel
    ookedatMasai
    ***
    Doris:ojolalengakaboweakabof el
    emy
    skat….gomoer skondnou….ofuthi
    saby ang
    dikulanelegodi pei
    taotat
    azelaso(y ou’r
    e
    datingat radi
    ti
    onalheal
    ernowsobei ngweak
    mustendmyl ove….t
    hingsarenol
    ongerthe
    same….howarey ougonnahelphi
    spati
    ents
    whenyou’r
    ethisweak)…..
    nomanholdthebull
    byit
    shornsandshowt hi
    sLupusmasepa(sh!
    t)
    ***
    Alphal
    ettewant edtolaughsobadbuthe
    hel
    dhimsel f
    …..AnywayMasai drankher
    medicati
    onandt heyleftthem al
    one….Alpha
    shookhisheadnotbel i
    ev i
    ngwhatj ust
    happened….alaughescapedhi smout hashe
    shookhishead…. Masaiendedupj oini
    nghim
    andtheylaughedt oget
    her *
    **
    Al
    pha:
    yho
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    pinghi
    stear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Al
    pha:yhokufambayi
    kuv
    onast
    rai
    ght(seei
    ng
    i
    sbeli
    evingst
    rai
    ght
    )
    Masai:
    im sor
    ryaboutal
    lthat
    ….i
    didt
    ell
    you
    she’
    scrazy
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    *
    CHAPTER9GOTOCHAPTER5*
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER10
    .
    .
    .
    NARRATED(TSHI
    MO)

    *
    **Shewal
    kedbacki
    nsi
    det
    her
    oom*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ihav
    eagunandIknowhowt
    ousei
    t
    Man:
    goodt
    oknow
    *
    **HecanspeakEngl
    i
    shandhi sBar
    ryWhi
    te’
    s
    v
    oicei
    samaz i
    ng“shethought
    ”**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    who.
    ..
    whoar
    eyou
    ***
    theguykeptqui
    etabi
    tmaki
    ngaf
    aceasi
    f
    he’
    stry
    ingtothi
    nk*
    **
    Man:
    i.
    ..
    idon’
    tknow
    *
    **Tshi
    mosi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    wher
    ear
    eyouf
    rom
    Man:
    Idon’
    tknow
    Tshi
    mo:doy
    our
    ememberany
    thi
    ngabout
    your
    sel
    f
    *
    **het
    houghtf
    orabi
    t**
    *
    Man:aname..
    ..Ntsako.
    ..
    .idon’
    tknowi
    fit
    smi
    ne
    orsomeoneel
    se’sandy ou
    Tshi
    mo:
    me?
    ??
    *
    **sheaskedshockedandhenodded*
    **
    Man:
    Ifeel
    naked
    **
    *hereyesqui
    ckl
    ywentt
    ohi
    spr
    ivat
    esandshe
    cl
    earedhert
    hroat
    ***
    Tshimo: i
    ..
    .iwasbathi
    ngy ouandIr
    anoutwhen
    Ireal
    izedthatyou’
    reactuall
    yawake
    *
    **shewal
    kedi
    nthenst
    oppedmi
    dway
    ***
    Tshimo:ifyou’
    reaserialki
    ll
    erknowt hatIsaved
    youandbat hedyousobef oreyouthinkof
    ki
    lli
    ngmer ememberI ’
    lltor
    menty ouasaghost
    andifyou’r
    ear api
    stknowt hatI’
    l
    lri
    py ourhuge
    dickoffandfeeditt
    omynei ghbour
    ’sdogandi f
    uthweleI’
    ll
    makesur ey ouaretheonet obe
    sacri
    fi
    ced
    Man:Idon’
    tev
    enknowwhoIam sor
    elaxIwont
    hur
    tyou
    Tshi
    mo:
    imj
    ustsay
    ing
    ***
    shepr
    oceededt
    ogr
    abt
    hebl
    anketand
    cover
    edhi
    m***
    Tshi
    mo:
    arey
    oucomf
    ort
    abl
    e
    Man:
    canIhav
    eapi
    l
    low.
    ..
    please
    Tshi
    mo:
    umm sur
    e
    ***
    shewentt ogetpil
    lowsandhelpedputone
    oft hem underhi
    sneckandheadwhi l
    esti
    ll
    careful
    aroundhim andshepul
    ledachairand
    satdown* **
    Tshi
    mo: y
    ousai
    dyourememberme.
    ..
    howwhen
    I
    ’venev
    ermetyoubef
    ore
    Man:Idon’tknowbutyou’
    rei
    nmymind
    l
    ike.
    ..
    .l
    ikeI
    ’
    v eknownyoumywhol
    eli
    fe
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    that
    ’sj
    ust
    ..
    .cr
    eepy
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Tshi
    mo: Ihadadr eam abouty
    ouanda
    woman...ol
    dwomancr yi
    ngaskingmet ohelp
    you.
    ..
    .i
    tlooksli
    keshe’syourmot herbecause
    shekeptsaying“helpmyson”
    *
    **t
    hemanswal
    l
    owedl
    ooki
    ngupatt
    her
    oof*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:eishokummm l
    etmegomakey
    ou
    somethi
    ngtoeat
    Man:
    Icantf
    eel
    mybodyf
    rom myneckdown
    *
    **hesai
    dwit
    hapainedv
    oiceandshef
    roze
    t
    henshef
    rowned*
    **
    Tshimo:buty
    ougr abbedmeandev
    enj
    ustnow
    yourhandmov ed
    Man:Icanonl
    yfeel
    andusemyr i
    ghthandand
    al
    souseorfeelmy.
    ..
    .pr
    ivat
    epar
    tthat
    ’si
    t
    ***yepyourdi
    ckcanworkperf
    ectl
    yfi
    ne“she
    thought
    ”thensheshookherheadsnappi
    ngout
    ofitandshegotup**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:I’
    ll
    beback.
    ..
    letmegomakey
    ou
    somethi
    ngtoeat
    ***
    shewalkedoutandbr
    eat
    hedoutassoonas
    shegotoutsi
    de*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    whatt
    hehel
    lar
    eyoudoi
    ng
    Tshi
    mo.
    ..
    yhoy
    ou’
    rear
    iskt
    akershem
    *
    **shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    f**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    yeswhatar
    eyoudoi
    ngTee
    ***
    shejumpedwi thherhandonherchest
    l
    ookingaroundbutt here’
    snooneinsight
    ..
    ..
    she
    knewthatvoicev erywell
    causeonlyoneperson
    cal
    ledherthat.
    ..
    .herlat
    ebr ot
    her
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --

    NARRATED(
    LORRAI
    NE)

    ***JabuturnedandfacedLol
    lyt
    henhesmil
    ed
    takingastepback..
    ..
    hethenwal
    kedtowar
    ds
    Lollyst
    il
    lsmili
    ng**
    *
    Jabu:
    I’
    ll
    cal
    lyousowef
    ini
    sht
    hatt
    alk
    *
    **heki
    ssedhercheekandwal
    kedout*
    **
    Kenny
    :howcoul
    dyou
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:howcoul
    dIwhat
    Kenny
    :HOW COULDYOULETTHATBASTARD
    I
    NSIDEYOURHOUSELORRAINE.
    ..
    .AREYOU
    NOW TALKI
    NGTOHIM..
    .YOUPLAYINGMEFOR
    AFOOLNOW HUH
    ***
    shetookast
    epbackf
    rom hi
    mlooki
    ng
    scared*
    **
    Kenny
    :IM TALKI
    NGTOYOUDAMNI
    T!!
    !
    ***
    shemov edbackunt
    ilshe’
    sbyt
    hedoorand
    sheopenedit
    ***
    Lol
    l:I
    ..
    .it
    hinky
    oushouldleave..
    .i
    m..
    .i
    m not
    comfort
    ablewit
    hyourbehav i
    ourri
    ghtnow,i
    m
    act
    uall
    yscaredsopl
    easel eave
    ***
    Kennystoppedmovi
    ngtowar
    dsherandhe
    chuckl
    edshakinghi
    shead*
    **
    Kenny
    :sonowy
    ou’
    rescar
    edofmebecauseof
    hi
    m
    *
    **shecl
    osedherey
    esabi
    t*
    **
    Loll
    y:ar
    e..
    .ar
    eyout hepossessi
    vety
    peKenneth
    causethi
    sbehaviourri
    ghtnowisnot
    normal.
    ..
    areyouoneoft hoseguyst
    hatdon’t
    careaboutanexplanat
    ionbutconcl
    udethings
    i
    nt hei
    rheadbasedonwhatt heythi
    nktheysaw
    orsee
    Kenny
    :excuseme.
    ..
    dontpl
    aymi
    ndgameswi
    th
    mewoman
    Loll
    y:youdon’tevencar
    eaboutmyr easonsof
    all
    owinghi min.
    ..
    youcoul
    d’vejustsatdownand
    said“explai
    n”butnoyou’
    reherelookingli
    ke
    you’r
    er eadytobeatt
    heshitoutofme
    Kenny
    :soy
    out
    hinki
    m abusi
    venow
    *
    **shej
    ustshookherheaddef
    eat
    ednow*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:pl
    easel
    eav
    eKennet
    h
    Kenny
    :noIwantt
    oknowwhaty
    oumeanabout
    al
    lthatsh!
    tyouj
    ustsai
    d
    Lol
    l
    y :
    thisi
    smypl acenotoursandwhenIsay
    l
    eave,youshoul
    dactuall
    yleave!
    !!
    ***hel ookedatherwi thanangr ylookonhi s
    faceandhewal kedt owardsherandshecl osed
    herey esr eadyt orecei veanybeat ingbutt hen
    hej ustwal kedout .
    ..shesl owlyopenedherey es
    andhewasgonet henshequi ckl
    ycl osedt he
    doorandl ockedi tthenshel eanedoni twithher
    backassheshookv igorouslywi t
    hpeer unning
    downherl egs,shesl iddownast ear sburned
    herey est henev entual l
    yrandownhercheeks
    asshest ar t
    edsobbi ng. .
    ..
    hermi ndwentt oher
    ex-husbandandsheswor eshej ustsawhi m
    throughKenny ’
    sey eswhenhemov edclosert o
    herl ookingt hatangr y,whatwoul df oll
    owaf t
    er
    thatwoul dbesl aps,kicksandpunchesf r
    om
    him. .
    ..thenshehear daknockbyt hedoort hat
    near lymadeherhear ttoal mostst opbeat i
    ng* **
    Jabu:
    Lol
    l
    y
    ***
    shebr
    eat
    hedoutt
    henaloudsobescaped
    hermout
    handshecr
    ieduncont
    rol
    l
    abl
    y* *
    *
    Jabu:
    Lor
    rai
    ne!
    !!
    ***
    hesaidknocki
    ngonthedoorandmov
    ingt
    he
    doorhandl
    eroughl
    y**
    *
    Jabu:Lor
    rai
    nebul
    a(open)ori
    m br
    eaki
    ngt
    he
    doornow
    **
    *shet
    ri
    edtocalm downandwi
    pedherf
    ace
    wit
    hhert
    -shi
    rt
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:keshapJabu(
    im ok)
    ..
    ..
    justgo
    Jabu:im sur
    eawankutlwapil
    a(im sureyou
    di
    dn’thearmeproper
    ly)
    ..
    ..
    isai
    dopent hi
    sdoor
    orim breaki
    ngi
    tdownthisi
    nstant
    ***
    shesniffedandgotupf rom t
    hef l
    oorsti
    ll
    vi
    sibl
    yshaking..
    ..
    thephysi
    cal,mentaland
    psychol
    ogicaltr
    aumaofwhatBheki herex-
    husbandputhert hr
    oughhitherunexpectedl
    y
    andnowi t
    sl i
    keshe’srel
    iv
    ingthatphaseinher
    l
    ifeagain.
    ..
    .YesKennydi
    dn’thi
    therorat
    tempt
    tobutthewayhewasangr yandmov ing
    towardshershouti
    ngbroughtbackmemories
    shethoughtshedealtwi
    th..
    ..
    Anywayshe
    openedherdoorwi t
    hhershakyhandsand
    peepedoutathim* *
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:keshapJabu(i
    m okJabu)
    Jabu:
    didhehi
    tyou
    ***
    heaskedl
    ooki
    ngangryreadyt
    omur der
    someoneandsheshookherheadno*
    **
    Jabu:
    don’tpr
    otect
    shi
    m Lor
    rai
    neThando
    Mpofu..
    .dont
    Lol
    ly
    :I’m notIswear
    ..
    ..
    hedi
    dn’thi
    tme...
    i
    j
    ust.
    ..
    .hewasshout i
    ngandIgottr
    igger
    ed
    nj
    e..
    .I
    ’
    llbef i
    ne
    *
    **shesai
    dsni
    ff
    ing*
    **
    Jabu:thenletmei
    nandl
    etmeseef
    ormy
    sel
    f
    ukuthi
    y ou’
    reok
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    *
    **shesai
    dsi
    ghi
    ngandcl
    osi
    ngherey
    esabi
    t*
    **
    Jabu:
    letmeseef
    ormy
    sel
    f
    ***
    shethoughtabouthermessedupl
    eggi
    ngs
    andpeeont hefl
    oor*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:I
    ’
    llbef
    ineJabu.
    ..
    ipr
    omi
    se
    ***shetri
    edt ocloset hedoorbutJabupushed
    i
    topenandwal kedin...
    helookedaroundthe
    room thenbackatherandshel ookeddown
    embar r
    assedandasobescapedhermout has
    sheshookt ryingtost ret
    chandpullhershirt
    downt ocov erherdr enchedleggi
    ngswhichwas
    ani mpossibletasktodo* **

    -
    --
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    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(
    MOERA)
    Uncl
    e:sowhati
    sitt
    haty
    ouwantmet
    odeal
    wit
    h
    Moer
    a:somefool
    whohasbeenget
    ti
    ngaway
    wi
    thwaytoomuchtowar
    dsMasai
    *
    **Theuncl
    esatbackandcr
    ossedhi
    slegs
    l
    i
    steni
    ng***
    Uncl
    e:i
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Moera:
    Masai’
    sexboyf
    ri
    endStevensRei
    neke.
    ..
    .
    heoncehi
    therandnowhe’
    sbeencheatingon
    herandal
    sosaidsomehur
    tfulwordst
    oher
    **
    *theuncl
    esi
    ghedt
    aki
    ngasi
    pfr
    om hi
    s
    dr
    ink**
    *
    Uncl
    e:tel
    lmehere..
    ..
    soyougonnahur
    teach
    andeverymanthathurt
    sMasai
    *
    **Moer
    afr
    owned*
    **
    Uncl
    e:Moer
    a..
    ..
    Masai
    isnotmar
    ri
    edsoi
    nthi
    s
    worl
    dshe’
    sgonnameetfool
    swhoar
    est
    il
    lboys
    orjustf
    uckboys.
    ..
    whoarenott
    hecommitt
    ed
    ty
    pes..
    ..
    whopret
    endtolov
    eyoubutt
    heyknow
    al
    ltheywantf
    rom youi
    spussy
    Moera:heaskedhertomarr
    yhi
    m sohewasn’
    t
    j
    ustpassi
    ngtime..
    .it
    hink
    Uncle:Iengagedmynowgirl
    fr
    iendsoshestays
    fait
    hfulandloyal
    tomeforsometimebutI
    knowI ’
    llnev
    ermakehermywi f
    e..
    ..
    she’
    snotthe
    kindofwomanIwoul dwanttospendther
    est
    ofmyl if
    ewith
    *
    **herey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Moer
    a:Uncl
    e!!
    !
    Uncle:it
    ’sthetr
    uth.
    ..
    ..
    sheeatsmymoneyandI
    eatherpussy .
    ..
    uyangini
    kangiy
    amunika
    ever
    y oneishappy..
    ..
    thedayI’
    llmeett
    heone
    tr
    ustmeI ’
    l
    lengagehert odayandthefol
    l
    owi
    ng
    weeki m marryi
    ngher
    Moera:howlonghavey
    ouengagedBat
    habi
    l
    e
    f
    or.
    ..
    itsBat
    habil
    eri
    ght
    Uncl
    e:yeah.
    ..
    .i
    tsbeenei
    ghtmonthsnow.
    ..
    .ionl
    y
    wentgokokotaandthat
    ’sal
    lshe’
    sgonnaget
    Moer
    a:uncl
    enodi
    srespectnehbuty
    ou’
    ret
    rash
    *
    **t
    heuncl
    elaughed*
    **
    Uncle: t
    sek...
    .i
    m nott r
    ash, I’
    v echeat edonher
    multipleti
    mesandshe’ sst i
    llholdingonf or
    masepa(f orsh!t)
    ...
    .shedoesn’ tloveher self
    enought owal kaway ,nowwhatwoul dt hiski nd
    ofwomant eachmyki ds..
    .gor eokgot l
    ella
    masepa(t hatyout akesh! t)justf orlove. ..
    .hai
    wenaemany ana..
    ..
    akekgot l
    hel l
    emasepa(wai t
    ami nute..
    .idon’tt
    akesh! tfrom any one)sowhy
    wouldIwantmywi f
    eandki dsgor eba
    kgotlhell
    emasepa(t otakesh! tfrom
    anyone) .
    ..
    .iwantawomanwi tha
    backbone. ..
    whost andshergr ound...
    .who
    doesn’ttakeshi tf
    rom any one. .
    ..
    awomanwhoI
    knowwi l
    lleavemei fIcheatorhi ther .
    ..
    i cando
    anythingtoBat habil
    eandIknowshe’ llstay
    becauseshedoesn’ tlov eher selfenought o
    walkawayjustbecauseoffi
    nanci
    al
    dependencemor eespeci
    all
    ytheki
    ndof
    l
    ifest
    ylei
    m gi
    vingher
    *
    **Moer
    asi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:wel
    lIf
    eelsorr
    yforhershem.
    ..
    imean
    you’
    rewast
    ingherti
    meLume
    Uncle: she’
    swast i
    ngherownt i
    me. .
    ..
    i meanthis
    womanhasadegr eeandshecantf i
    ndaj ob
    shest udiedf orsoinsteadofwor kingatar etai
    l
    stor
    eorsomet hingshesay sshe’ snott hat
    desper atebutshe’sbr okeli
    kewhatt hef#ck,it
    s
    mymoneyandnother sandsheai ntgonnaget
    evenacentf r
    om itevenifIdieorwebr eak
    up..
    ..
    ifIdeci det ol
    eavehert omor rowshe’ ll
    commi tsuicidecauseshedoesn’ tev ensav e
    themoneysheget sf r
    om me. ..
    .she’st oo
    comf ortabl
    eandoneoft heseday sthef atl
    ady
    i
    sgonnasi ngl ikenakanaet loll
    ast r
    aight
    Moer
    a:y
    hohai
    shem moj
    olawany
    esa
    (relat
    ionshi
    pshurt
    s).
    ..
    .waitbutStev
    ensnever
    blessedMasawi t
    hmoney ..
    .well
    heboughther
    thingsli
    kegif
    tst
    hatI’
    lladmitbutIdon’
    t
    rememberhersay i
    ngthathegav ehermoney
    Uncle:t
    henMasai wasaf ool
    ..
    ..
    daimoegoeat e
    forfr
    eeandnowhe’ sgone...
    .i
    tsgoodt oget
    sickfr
    om yourcheati
    ngboy f
    ri
    endwhobl esses
    youwithmoney‘ THATYOUSAVE’ thant oget
    sickfr
    om abrokeorstingya$sboyfriend..
    ..
    Moer
    a:wel
    ltr
    ue
    *
    **shesai
    drai
    singhergl
    ass*
    **
    Uncle:yahit
    ’sthetrut
    h...
    doyouknowhowl ong
    queuesatapubl iccli
    nicareandhowrude
    nursesare..
    .idon’
    tevenwannat oucht
    hepubli
    c
    hospit
    al t
    opic
    ***Moerabust
    edoutwit
    hloudlaughterand
    peopl
    einsi
    dethekasi
    rest
    auranttheyarein
    l
    ookedatthem***
    Moer
    a:Lumeosav
    age
    *
    **t
    heuncl
    elaughed*
    **
    Uncl
    e:i
    mj ustt
    ell
    i
    ngt het
    rut
    h..
    .butbona,
    that
    fool
    wil
    lpayforhi
    tti
    ngMasai
    *
    **Moer
    asi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:
    yeahIdon’
    twanthi
    m deadcausehe’
    s
    AJ’
    suncleaf
    teral
    l
    Uncle:
    myboyswil
    lroughenhim upandhewi
    l
    l
    neverl
    ayahandonanotherdefencel
    ess
    womanagain
    Moer
    a:danki
    eLume
    Uncl
    e:t
    ell
    meaboutAJ’
    sfat
    her
    Moer
    a:butIt
    oldy
    ouov
    ert
    hephonemoes
    Uncl
    e:mor
    eli
    key
    oupr
    aisedhi
    m
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Moer
    a:Idi
    dn’
    t
    Uncl
    e:doy
    ouhav
    eacr
    ushont
    hisguyMoer
    a
    Moer
    a:bat
    hongMal
    ..
    .
    Uncl
    e:don’
    tli
    etome!
    *
    **hesai
    dint
    err
    upt
    ingher
    ***
    Moer
    a:i
    ts.
    ..
    it
    snotacr
    imet
    o
    Uncl
    e:Moer
    a
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Moera:
    Iwontactoni
    tmal
    omeIpr
    omi
    se.
    ..
    .i
    t
    l
    ooksli
    kehe’
    sint
    oMasa
    Uncle:
    youshouldn’
    thaveacrushonhi
    m
    per
    iod..
    ..
    he’
    syourtwin’
    sbabydaddy
    Moer
    a:Iknow
    Uncl
    e:t
    henwhy
    Moera:Idon’tknow..
    .i
    tjusthappened..
    ..he’
    s
    handsome...
    ..
    hehasagoodhear tandt here’
    s
    j
    ustsomet hi
    ngabouthi m..
    ..
    alli
    nallhe’sjustmy
    ki
    ndofman. ..
    .heremindsmeofAl ex,
    wel l
    wit
    houtthegift
    *
    **t
    heuncl
    esi
    ghedshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Uncle:al
    lIcansayi
    sit
    ’swr
    ongtoseeyou
    si
    ster’
    smanorbabydaddythatway
    ..
    ..
    itwi
    ll
    causeproblemsbet
    weenyoutwo
    Moer
    a:Isai
    dIwon’
    tactoni
    t
    Uncl
    e:fornow.
    ..
    .feel
    ingsgrowgi r
    lyand
    someti
    mesy oufailt
    ocont r
    olthem theny
    ouact
    onthem andal
    lhellbreaksloose
    ***
    Moeradidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustsi
    pped
    herdr
    ink*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(MASAI
    )

    ***
    Im atAl
    phalet
    te’
    shouse. .
    .yesy
    ouheardme
    ri
    ghti
    m atbabydaddy ’
    shouseandImustsay
    i
    tsbeauti
    fulshem..
    ..
    .eventhedecoisr
    eall
    yni
    ce,
    Imustsayhehast astecauseImeanIdidn’
    t
    picturehiml i
    vinginahouset hisbeautiful
    , not
    thatim under mini
    nghim orlookingdownon
    him nopej ustthatIhadthi
    sment al
    it
    yt hat
    sangomasputal l
    thei
    rfocusandmoneyon
    theirgif
    ts..
    .yeahsomethinglikethat.
    ..
    .allIcan
    sayi s,t
    hishousedoesn’ tbelonginthiski ndof
    neighbourhood* **
    Al
    pha:
    yougood
    ***
    hesaidgiv
    ingmemydr i
    nkandsitt
    ingnext
    tomewhi l
    eKhaiplayedonthecarpet
    ..
    ..
    hejust
    gothereandaskedforhis“
    toys”mxm li
    tt
    le
    betr
    ayer*
    **
    Me:yeahjustmyjoi
    nsarepainf
    ult
    odayandI
    t
    hinkim comingdownwithf
    luebutI’
    l
    lbe
    f
    ine.
    ..
    im usedtoal
    lthi
    s
    Al
    pha:
    shoul
    dIt
    akey
    out
    othehospi
    tal
    Me:
    Ithoughty
    ou’
    dsayl
    etmemi
    xsomeher
    bs
    f
    oryou
    *
    **Isai
    dsmi
    l
    ingl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m andhechuckl
    ed
    l
    i
    ght
    ly*
    **
    Alpha: manypeopl edon’ttr
    ustnaturalherbs
    fr
    om sangomasespeci al
    lyi
    ftheyar ereal
    lynot
    i
    nt otradit
    ionalheal
    ersandst uff
    ,theyonlytrust
    sciencemedi ci
    nesmadei nthelapnott he
    medi cinesfrom naturegi
    vent ousbyGodand
    discov er
    edandst udiedbyourancest ors
    *
    **wel
    ltr
    ue*
    **
    Me: f
    ormei t
    snotl iket hat..
    ..
    thet hingisjustl i
    ke
    sci
    entistsorphar maci sts,letpeopl eknow
    abouttraditi
    onalher bst hatcur esorhel ps
    manageacer taindeceasesmor eespeci ally
    i
    ncurabledeceases, traditi
    onal healersdon’ tlet
    i
    tknownt othepubl icunl essy ougov isi
    tt hem,
    somet i
    mest heydon’ tevent ellyou, t
    heyjust
    giv
    ey ouanal readymi xedbot tlewi thnoi nfoof
    what’sinsideandt elly outogodr inktwiceor
    thr
    eet i
    mesaday. .
    ..Iknewf r
    om awor k
    coll
    eaguet hatthere’saher bthathel psmanage
    bett
    erdi abet
    esi t
    scal l
    edShi no...
    .somet hing
    andi
    tshel
    pingherdi
    abet
    icbr
    otheral
    ot
    ***
    Isawhim smi
    l
    ingl
    i
    kehe’
    simpr
    essedor
    somethi
    ng**
    *
    Me:yeahyeahy
    eahitsShenongomaf
    ior
    somethi
    ngli
    kethat
    Al
    pha:
    imi
    mpr
    essed
    Me:soyahy ou’
    llf
    indthatther
    eareherbsthat
    hel
    pswithLupusdeceaseandy out
    radit
    ional
    heal
    erswit
    hmuchknowl edgeknowaboutt hem
    butyoukeepingquiet
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:wellt
    hereareherbsont heshelvesbut
    peoplehardl
    ybuyt hem..
    ..
    you’l
    lfi
    ndoutt hatthe
    bottl
    eofmut ihelpswit
    hdiff
    erentail
    ment sor
    deceasesony ourbodybuttheyprefertodr i
    nk
    tenpil
    lsperdayandbei nj
    ectedwith
    substancesintothei
    rbodythathelpsforthat
    smallperi
    odoft hatti
    methere’
    ssomenotsoo
    goodst er
    eotypearoundtr
    aditi
    onalhealersand
    peoplear
    ewaryandaf r
    aidofthem becauseof
    that
    ,someevenvisi
    tthem atnightcausethey
    don’
    twanttobejudged
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Alpha: i
    tsjustsadbutheyt hisisnotourwor ld,
    wear eall heretov i
    sitandsoonwegonnago
    j
    oint hesameancest or smostcal l
    demons. ..
    .imaginecal l
    ingy ourownl atemot her,
    father,si
    blingsinf actyourwhol efamilyli
    neage
    demonswhi leyouhav et heirDNAr unning
    throughy ourv ei
    nsbutheywear enotthereand
    wenotgonnagot hereorst artat opi
    cabout
    i
    t..
    ..AnywayIhar dlygetsi ckt hat’
    swhyIdon’ t
    hav eamedi calaid...
    .ialway sdrinkmer e(mut i
    )
    alway s.
    ..
    iguesst hat’
    swhymysper msar ethis
    strong
    **
    *hesai
    dlooki
    ngatKhaiandIf
    rownedat
    hi
    m..
    .i
    tst
    oosoon,waytoosoon***
    Al
    pha:
    comeonmamaweneedt
    otal
    kabout
    howj uniorwasconcei ved,
    itwasn’tina
    pleasantwaybuthe’ snotami st
    ake...
    .i
    shoul dn’thavet r
    eatedyoulikehowIdi dtwo
    year sbackandI ’
    llf
    oreverr
    egretitsoweneed
    tot alkabouti tunti
    lwenol ongerfeelawkward
    talkingabouti toryounotrelivi
    ngthatpainf
    ul
    exper ience..
    .weneedt omov ef r
    om itoneway
    ort heeot her
    *
    **Isi
    ghed*
    **
    Me:
    Ithi
    nki
    tst
    oosoon
    Al
    pha:
    okbutt
    hinkaboutwhatIj
    ustsai
    dal
    ri
    ght
    *
    **Ij
    ustnodded*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    THOKOZAMKHULU
    Al
    pha:eyeywar
    asamahn(y
    ou’
    remaki
    ngnoi
    se
    man)
    **
    *theguyhewaswithattheengagementpar
    ty
    walksi
    nwithanot
    heryoungman***
    Youngman:
    dumel
    ang(hel
    l
    o)
    ***
    hesai
    dhumblyi
    nar
    espect
    abl
    emannerand
    Ismil
    edathi
    m**
    *
    Me:
    hiokae(hi
    howar
    eyou)
    Youngman:
    ket
    eng(i
    m good)
    Youngman:
    baba
    Al
    pha:
    boy
    za.
    ..
    .wher
    edi
    dthi
    sfool
    findy
    ou
    Youngman:
    downt
    her
    oadatt
    hekot
    ajoi
    nt
    Alpha:umm mamat hisi
    sTshepohe’ smyboy,
    myf i
    rstbornnotbiologi
    cal
    lybutyeahyouget
    i
    t..
    .il
    earnedfather
    hoodt hr
    oughhim bytaki
    ng
    careofhim...
    .l
    et’
    sjustsayIstoppedbei
    nga
    boyandgr ewupandbecameamanbecauseof
    him..
    ..
    **
    *okwow...
    alr
    ightatl
    easthe’
    srespect
    ful
    and
    helooksl
    i
    keagoodboy *
    **
    Alpha:
    andBoyzathi
    sisMasai
    ,Juni
    or’
    smot
    her
    andsoontobethewomanofthi
    shouse
    *
    **t
    hehel
    l
    ***
    Tshepo:
    nicet
    ofi
    nal
    l
    ymeety
    ou.
    ..
    ummm
    Mpande:
    youcancal
    lhermamat
    oo
    ***
    someonegetmet
    hehel
    loutofher
    e..
    ..
    isee
    Tsheposmi
    li
    ng**
    *
    Tshepo:
    nicet
    ofi
    nal
    l
    ymeety
    oumama
    Me:
    nicet
    omeety
    out
    ooTshepo
    **
    *Ismil
    edathi
    mthenhel
    ookedandsmi
    l
    edat
    Khai
    ***
    Youngman:
    heyy
    oungone
    **
    *hesai
    dpicki
    nghim upandhewalkedaway
    wit
    hhim.
    ..
    theywentt
    owardstheki
    tchen
    ar
    ea**
    *
    Alpha:
    whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatmywomanl
    i
    ke
    that
    *
    **whyi
    shesay
    ingi
    m hi
    swomanl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ***
    Mpande:causeshelooksl
    i
    kemywoman.
    ..
    wel
    l
    shehassomef eat
    uresmywomanhas
    ***
    waithe’
    sinterestedinMoera.
    ..
    yhothe
    sebet
    e(nerve/li
    ver)thi
    sguyhas..
    ..
    Moeraasi
    n
    Moeramyt win.
    ..
    .howt hehel
    lishegonna
    handl
    eher.
    ...
    yho(cl apone)*
    **
    Mpande:
    im Mpandebyt
    heway
    ..
    ..
    sohowi
    s
    she
    Me:
    ummm she’
    sgood
    Mpande:
    mmh..
    .soMasai
    doyouthi
    nkshe’
    l
    l
    agr
    eetobemi
    newhenIappr
    oachher
    *
    **y
    hohesai
    dwhennoti
    f**
    *
    Me:
    ummm
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tanswert
    hatmama
    Mpande:
    ij
    elousyy
    ani
    Thokozani
    Al
    pha:
    tsek
    Mpande:
    mxm.
    ..
    somamakaboywi
    l
    lshe
    *
    **whyist
    hisguyput
    ti
    ngmeont
    hespotl
    i
    ke
    t
    his*
    **
    Me: doy
    ouwantt
    het
    rut
    horf
    ormet
    oboost
    yourego
    **
    *Al
    phal
    ettelaughs.
    ..
    igiv
    ehim ar
    epri
    mandi
    ng
    l
    ookandhekeepsqui etbuty
    oucouldseehe
    want
    stolaugh***
    Mpande:
    thet
    rut
    hmamakaboyandal
    sohow
    t
    ogether
    ***
    hesai
    dsit
    ti
    ngmovingtotheedgeofthe
    couchwi
    thhi
    shandsclampedtoget
    her.
    ..
    .ok*
    **
    Me: she’scrazybutprotecti
    veov erherloved
    ones....
    shecanuseagunandal sof i
    ghtmor e
    l
    ikedef endhersel
    f.
    ..
    .noof fencebutshehas
    neverdat edsomeonel i
    key ouandbyt hatI
    meansomeonewhodr esseslikeyouort alks
    l
    ikey ou..
    .shehasdatedcor porateguysy ou
    knowandshel ovesacer tai
    nlifest
    yleother
    thant hatshe’
    samazing, hasagoodhear tand
    she’
    sal ovi
    ngpersonwi thameant emper .
    ...
    j
    ust
    don’tcrossher
    Al
    pha:
    yep
    *
    **i
    frownedathi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    att
    hehospi
    talshewasf
    uri
    oussoIgota
    gl
    i
    mpseofwhosheiswhenshe’
    spissed
    Mpande:that
    ’sal
    l.
    ..
    .it
    houghty
    ou’
    l
    ltel
    lme
    yi
    sfebeorsomethi
    ng..
    ..
    ***sot hi
    sni kkathoughtI ’
    l
    ltellhim myt win
    starteddat i
    ngmar r
    iedmanaf terherex
    died...
    wagaf aoo(he’ scrazy)..
    .he’l
    lseefor
    himsel fthekindofmoni edguy sMoer a
    dates....
    ifshewant stogot ot heMal dives
    tomor rowshewi ll
    goandshewon’ tuseev ena
    centofhermoneyt hat’sthekindofmenshe
    f@ckswi th..
    .butheyshemi ghtlikehimy ou’l
    l
    nev erknowwi thabetrayercalledahear t
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    real
    l
    yman.
    ..
    youhadt
    ouset
    hatwor
    d
    Mpande:ei
    shhaar demahnmamakaboy ..
    .i
    tendtof
    orgetthatim notsupposedtoswear
    aroundi
    mportantwomenandchi ldr
    eninour
    l
    i
    ves
    *
    **what
    ..
    .notwomeni
    ngener
    al?
    ***
    Me:
    itsok
    *
    **i
    tsnot
    ***
    Mpande:
    yahmanhaar
    deneh
    *
    **Ij
    ustnodded.
    ..
    TshepoandKhai
    wal
    kedback
    i
    nlaughi
    ng***
    Khai
    :mamabona
    *
    **he’
    sshowi
    ngmeaf
    ancybabycup*
    **
    Tshepo:
    itsj
    uicei
    nsi
    deIhopey
    oudon’
    tmi
    nd
    Me:
    nopei
    tsst
    il
    labi
    tear
    lysohe’
    l
    lbef
    ine
    Tshepo:
    ok.
    ..
    .ummm wegonnachi
    l
    lout
    side
    whil
    eweeat
    Mpande:don’
    tfor
    gett
    ocall
    thatboyandtel
    l
    hi
    m Iwanttoseehimtomorr
    owmor ni
    ng
    Tshepo:
    okuncl
    e
    ***
    hewal kedoutwithKhai
    ..
    oktheyseem t
    obe
    gett
    ingalongjustf
    ine.
    ..
    ait
    hisbabyi
    sjust
    somethingelseshem***
    Mpande:
    sowhenar
    eyousl
    eepi
    ngov
    ermama
    kaboy
    *
    **what
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    MpandeMpandemahn
    Mpande:whatimjustaski
    nghawsothatIwont
    come.
    ..
    phelaIal
    soneedy ouat
    tent
    ion
    *
    **wowIj
    ustgi
    ggl
    ed.
    ..
    thi
    sguyi
    sjust
    ..
    .y
    ah*
    **
    Mpande:
    plusim sur
    eyout
    wowi
    l
    lbef
    #cki
    ng
    l
    iker
    abbi
    ts.
    ..
    .t
    hisone
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngatAl
    phal
    ett
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Iwontr
    epr
    imandy
    ouagai
    n
    Mpande: hef#cks.
    ..
    .oncehest
    art
    swith
    you..
    .he’
    l
    l ev
    enf#cky ouwhenyouev
    ent aki
    nga
    sh!t
    *
    **Modi
    mo*
    **
    Alpha:otakonny
    elenemanj
    eni
    (yougonnash!
    t
    yoursel
    fnow)
    Mpande:sorr
    yf orsweari
    ngmamakaboybut
    don’
    tworryhe’sagoodmanandhe’ sgonna
    tr
    eatyougood, spoi
    lyouandtr
    eatsy
    oulikean
    egg.
    ..
    shem yenahe’sasof t
    ywhenhewantsto
    *
    **hesai
    dscr
    atchi
    nghi
    sgoat
    eebear
    d**
    *
    Mpande:
    butmdav
    aso(
    sex)
    *
    **hewhi
    stl
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    uyal
    idl
    aimomozi
    ..
    .kakhul
    ufut
    hi(he
    eat
    sp#ssyandalot
    )
    ***
    Alphaislooki
    ngdownprobabl
    yembar
    rassed
    andim embar r
    assedt
    oo.
    ..
    thenheget
    supand
    str
    etches*
    **
    Mpande: st
    opthi
    sthingofpl
    ayingit
    safe.
    ..
    playi
    nghardtogetandbeingawkwar
    d
    aroundeachother.
    ..
    .y
    ouhaveachi l
    d
    together
    ..
    .hehasseenyounaked.
    ..
    jol
    ani
    (dat
    e)
    andf @ckthengetmarri
    edandmakemor e
    babiesman...
    .l
    if
    eistooshor
    thaw
    ***
    hewalksawayt
    henst
    opsandt
    urnst
    olook
    atus*
    **
    Mpande: bazokt hathelauny eny iandits
    dir
    ectedtot hebot hofy ou. .
    ..
    niy asabanaingathi
    youarest i
    lli
    nschool ,
    ev enki dsi nschoolthese
    daybay ashelast r
    aight(t hey’l
    l asky ouout
    str
    aight).
    ..
    .ukbonamanj e, ushel amanj eand
    nij
    olamanj e(heseesy ounow, asksy ouout
    nowandy oudat enow)andhef #cksy ou
    tomorrow, i
    fyou’ r
    eluckyt hesamedaynotwhat
    youtwoar edoi ng..
    .jol
    ani (dat e)y ou’r
    emaking
    thi
    ngsawkwar df orusmanhaw
    *
    **hewal
    kedt
    owar
    dst
    heki
    tchenar
    ea*
    **
    Alpha:
    im sor
    ryaboutt
    hat
    ..
    .it
    hinkhef
    orgott
    o
    takehi
    smedicine
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★ TODAREI
    STODO★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER11
    .
    .
    LORRAI
    NE

    *
    **l
    etmediet
    hisi
    nst
    ant
    ..
    ..t
    hisembarr
    assment
    i
    sgonnast
    aywi
    thmefortherestofmyli
    fe*
    **
    Jabu:im gonnaasky
    ouonel
    astt
    ime.
    ..
    ..
    what
    di
    dt hatbastar
    ddo
    *
    **hel
    ooksl
    i
    vid*
    **
    Me: hej
    ustscar
    edmebycomi ngt
    owar
    dsme
    shouti
    ng.
    ..
    .it
    houghthe’
    ll
    hitmebuthedi
    dn’
    the
    walkedoutwhenItoldhi
    mt o
    ***Isaidsobbing..
    ..
    heclenchedhi sj
    aws
    l
    ookingdownt henhewal kedtomeandoutof
    thebluehepi ckedmeupandwal kedtothe
    bathroom wit
    hme. .
    ..
    wegott hereandheputme
    downandf il
    ledt hebatht
    ubwi thwaterand
    foam bath**
    *
    Jabu:
    takeof
    fyourcl
    othes
    Me:
    huh
    Jabu:I’
    veseenyounakedbef
    oreLol
    l
    ysot
    ake
    offyourcl
    othes
    ***yesbutthatwasyearsback.
    ..
    .bat
    hongt hi
    s
    guy...
    .ij
    ustsi
    ghedandwai t
    edforthebat
    htubt o
    fi
    llupthentookoffmyclothesandIgotinside
    thebathtubwhilehepickedmycl ot
    hesandl ef
    t
    thebathroom wit
    hthem...
    .it
    ookadeepbr eath
    andrel
    axedi
    nthewater
    ...
    .myl
    if
    ewil
    lnev
    er
    knowpeaceandIdon’
    tthi
    nkthi
    slov
    ethi
    ngi
    s
    forme***

    NARRATED

    *
    **Jabuputhercl
    othesi
    nsi
    deherwashi
    ng
    machi
    neandhewentbacktothebat
    hroom**
    *
    Jabu:
    eisht
    hatmachi
    neofy
    our
    siscompl
    i
    cat
    ed
    ***Lor
    rai
    neopenedhereyesandtol
    dhim what
    topressandhewentbackthensooncame
    backandhesatont heedgeofthebat
    htuband
    sighedpoppi
    nghisknuckl
    es*
    **
    Jabu:Iknowhi
    sbrotherabusedy
    oubutwhatI
    wanttoknowishowmuchdamagewasdone
    toyouforyout
    oreactli
    kethat
    *
    **Lor
    rai
    neswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Jabu:
    kaj
    aja(Iknow)i
    tsnoteasyt
    otal
    kabout
    i
    tbutIwantt
    oknow
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    ly
    :heusedtosl
    ap,
    punchandki
    ckme
    whenev
    erhefel
    tli
    kei
    t
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Loll
    y:Idi
    dgethelpbutsomesituati
    onsj
    ust
    tr
    iggeryouandyoustartr
    eli
    vi
    ngthat
    tr
    aumat i
    zi
    ngti
    meofy ourli
    feagainbutI
    ’
    llbe
    fi
    ne
    *
    **Jabudidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    nghejustkeptqui
    et
    l
    ookingdownforsometi
    me***
    Jabu:
    im sor
    ryf
    orhowIt
    reat
    edy
    ou
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ydi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:Iwasindenial
    andImesseduppr
    ett
    ybad
    Lorr
    aine.
    ..
    idon’
    tknowwhattodotomakeitup
    toyouandt omakeyoufor
    giv
    eme
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ysni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Loll
    y:why..
    .whatdi
    dIdotoy
    outogett
    hat
    tr
    eatmentfrom youandt
    ogetbl
    amedfory
    our
    daughter
    ’sdeath
    *
    **Jabucl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Loll
    y:Iwantt
    oknowJabucauset
    hatbr
    okemy
    hearttot
    hecore
    Jabu:Iwaswr ongt
    osayal
    lthat
    ..
    ..
    itwaspai
    n
    andregrett
    alki
    ngandi
    m sor
    ry
    Lol
    l
    y:t
    hat
    ’snotwhatIwantt
    oknow
    Jabu:
    im notr
    eadyt
    otal
    kabouti
    t
    Loll
    y:t
    henl
    eave.
    ..
    thedayy
    ou’
    l
    lber
    eadyy
    ou
    knowwheretofi
    ndme
    *
    **her
    aisedhi
    sheadandl
    ookedather
    f
    rowni
    ng***
    Lol
    l
    y:t
    samay
    aJabu(l
    eav
    eJabu)
    ***
    hesighedandhegotupandl
    eftt
    he
    bathr
    oom andLor
    rai
    ne’
    stear
    sgushedoutand
    shesobbed**
    *
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --

    HI
    LLS(
    SHALATE)

    ***I
    m sitti
    ngi nmama’ sbeaut i
    fulgardent aking
    i
    ni t
    sbeaut yandt hef r
    eshsmel l t
    hathasf i
    ll
    ed
    theair.
    ..
    .she’sintof l
    ower sandt hisgarden
    l
    ooksamazi ngandt hegar denershehi red
    knowshi sjobshem.I m backhomeandImust
    sayit’
    sbeent ough, i
    mt akingev erydayasi t
    comesandIcansaysomeday sar ebetterthan
    othersandi m gladmamai snotpushy .
    ..My
    mar ri
    agenehorshoul dIsaymydead
    mar ri
    age..
    .isti
    llcan’tbelieveTardi dandsai d
    thattome, Iwashur tandbr okent hathe
    cheatedbuthi m cal l
    ingmebar renjustbr oke
    memor ethatIal readywas. ..
    ..
    Hecal l
    edme
    barren,Isti
    llcantbel i
    evei t
    ***
    Voi
    ce:Ihopeoplanneravacat
    ionyou’
    llhav
    e
    af
    teryourdi
    vor
    ceisfinal
    notdisui
    cideor
    st
    ayinginapol
    ygamymar ri
    ageShalat
    e
    ***I
    t’
    sthehousehel p..
    ..
    wecal lheraus’ Vee,her
    namei sVelemina..
    .She’
    scr azylikemamaand
    wedon’ ttr
    eatherli
    keahousehel p..
    ..
    she’sli
    ke
    familyandshetreatsusgoodandwegi veher
    therespectshedeser v
    es..
    ..
    She’ sloyaltomama
    shem nol i
    es.
    ..
    .youshouldfindt hem gossi pi
    ng
    aboutsomeoney hoyou’l
    lfeelsor ryforthat
    person* *
    *
    Me:
    bat
    hongaus’
    Veesui
    cidev
    ele
    Vee:gapel
    onama2000galetshepi
    si(y
    ou
    2000gener
    ati
    oncantbet
    rust
    ed)
    Me:
    mel
    e2000
    Vee:hai
    suka.
    ..
    youmaynotbeonebuty
    oul
    ook
    l
    ikeone
    *
    **shesai
    dsit
    tingdownnextt
    omeandI
    l
    aughedli
    ght
    ly*
    * *
    Vee:Paul
    oskebosso..
    .gardeneesmartman
    (Paulosi
    stheboss.
    ..
    thisgardeni
    sbeaut
    if
    ul)
    Me:
    mmmmh
    *
    **Isai
    dsmi
    l
    ingt
    henIsi
    ghed*
    **
    Vee:ev er
    ythi
    ngwillbefi
    ney ou’
    ll
    see..
    ..
    okgonne
    gomov eronfrom Mhlaba’
    sdeathsomet hi
    ng
    thatbroughtyoudownt oyourkneessomonna
    keeng(sowhati saman) ..
    ..
    worstpartwasle
    Zululemmagwewas#f ebe(wor stpartaZul
    u
    onewi thawh#r eofamot her)
    Me:
    haai
    aus’
    Vee
    Vee:keng.
    ..
    kesonav el
    e(what.
    ..
    sheis)
    ..
    ..
    anywaydoy ourememberthepromiseyou
    madet oyoursi
    ster
    *
    **Iswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandl
    ookeddown*
    **
    Vee:
    don’tdowhatshedi d.
    ..
    .ev
    enafterDori
    s
    br
    oughtthatfooldownt ohiskneesandmade
    l
    if
    emi ser
    ableforhim buthe’
    sst i
    l
    lal
    ive.
    ..
    .hi
    s
    mot
    hersti
    l
    lseeshi
    m andMhlabaisgonesono
    maniswort
    hyouki
    ll
    ingyour
    sel
    ffor
    *
    **Isni
    ff
    edast
    ear
    srandownmycheeks*
    **
    Vee:ev enifyoukil
    lyoursel
    forstressyour
    self
    todeathhewi l
    lmov eonandmar r
    ythatgi
    rland
    l
    ivehappi l
    ylefamilyyagagwewenaot labeo
    l
    ebusyoi melwakemmul al
    a(wi t
    hhisfamil
    y
    andy ou’l
    lbetheonedead) ..
    ..
    soacceptthathe
    hurtyouandst artheal
    ingformt hatpai
    nthen
    div
    orcei fyoucantsharehimt henmour nyour
    mar r
    iageandmov eon...
    .Li
    feistooshortr
    ato
    l
    aka
    Me:Idon’
    tknowhowt
    omov
    eonandaccept
    t
    hatit
    sover
    Vee:don’
    tfor
    cet
    hings.
    ..
    .t
    akey
    ourt
    ime.
    ..
    .ial
    so
    tookmytime
    *
    **Il
    ookedatherwi
    pingmyt
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Vee:
    Iwasoncemar
    ri
    ed
    Me:
    noo
    Vee:yepandIl ov edhim shem infactI
    worshipedthegr oundherwal kedonandt hat
    wasmyf ir
    stmi stake..
    ..youseewewer eonce
    happy,het r
    eatedmegoodandmademehappy
    shem butkabat i
    i star
    tedhavingprobl
    emswi t
    h
    myut erus.
    ..
    sekgowal ala(Engli
    shlal
    a),
    uterus
    wenaaaa
    *
    **Shesaidt
    hel astpar
    tdramat
    ical
    l
    yandI
    f
    oundmy sel
    flaughing*
    **
    Vee:mydi schargewassmel l
    ingreall
    ybadand
    i
    tgotwor sewhenIcoul dn’tholdmypee
    anymoreandIwasal waysi npain,nekenkga(I
    smell
    edr eall
    ybad)Shal ateev enafterbathing
    sti
    l
    lnegot shwana(Iwoul dst i
    l
    lsmel l
    ),Iused
    towearanadul tdiaper..
    ..
    soonedayIwentt o
    seeanotherdoct ortoknowwhatIcandocause
    Iwasinandoutofhospi t
    al andthedoct orthat
    hel
    pedatt hehospi t
    al t
    oldmeonet hi
    ngandI
    j
    ustcouldn’tacceptwhathet oldme. .
    ..
    af t
    er
    somet est
    sheal
    sosai
    dIneedt
    oremov
    e
    i
    t..
    .Yho.
    ..
    *
    **shecl
    appedherhandsdr
    amat
    ical
    l
    y**
    *
    Vee:hesaidIeit
    herremov eitorli
    vel
    ikethi
    sfor
    therestofmylif
    eandt hatitwil
    lgett
    oapoi nt
    whereitwil
    ltur
    nintocancersot hesecond
    opini
    onandthepainIfeltmademespeakwi t
    h
    thenowexandweagr eedt hati
    mr emovingit
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Vee:thesur gerywentwel landwi t
    htimeI
    heal
    edandt hat’swhenmasepa(sh#t )start
    ed
    happeni ng.
    ..
    .tonkiele(thatdonkey)st art
    ed
    changingandIknewhe’ scheating.
    ...
    iusedto
    beghim aski nghim whyhe’ streati
    ngmel i
    ke
    that
    ,whyhedoesn’ tsl
    eepathomeany more,
    whyhedoesn’ tlookatmel i
    keheusedt o,why
    hedoesn’ ttouchmeany mor ebuthewoul dget
    madandhi tmebutIwoul dsti
    llfor
    givehim
    shem....theonlytimehewoul dtouchmei sif
    he’sdr unkandhe’
    dbecomerough..
    ..
    hewould
    turnintoananimalandwhenhe’sdoneI
    ’l
    lbe
    l
    ef twithbrui
    sesandanachi
    ngbodyand
    bleedingnunuandhurtf
    ulwordshecannever
    takeback
    *
    **y
    ho*
    **
    Vee:butIwouldst
    il
    lcookforhi
    m,cl
    eanthe
    house,r
    especthi
    m andevenwashhiscl
    othes.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shechuckl
    edshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Vee:nekelebari
    yong(Iwasaf ool
    )...
    .any way
    whenhest ar
    tedcall
    i
    ngmemosadi waModi mo
    deepdownIknewIl osthim butIwasi ndeni al
    shem,Iconti
    nuedtobet hegoodwi feunt ilone
    dayhecamehomewi thawomanandt oldme
    togosleepintheguestbedroom causehe
    wanttosleepwit
    hheronourmat ri
    moni al
    bed.
    ..
    .if
    oughtShalat
    ebuthewasst rongert han
    mesohebeatmeupbl ackandblueandhe
    l
    ockedmei ntheguestbedroom andIcoul d
    heart
    hem hav
    ingsexi
    nmybedr
    oom,
    mybed
    **
    *tearsar
    er unni
    ngdownmycheeks.
    ..
    ..
    men
    ar
    et r
    ash..
    ..
    wowIcantbeli
    evet
    his*
    **
    Vee:It
    ri
    edmult
    ipl
    eti
    mest
    otakemyli
    febut
    GodandmyAncestor
    swoul
    dsay.
    ..
    jyi
    smal
    (you’
    recr
    azy
    )
    *
    **shel
    aughed.
    ..she’
    sst
    rongshem*
    **
    Vee: onedayhebackhomeandheki ckedme
    outinsulti
    ngmeandf ort hefi
    rstti
    mesi ncehe
    start
    edchangi nghecall
    edmeashe- man, are
    kenny omba( hesaidim barr
    en)..
    ..
    hesai di
    m
    notwomanenoughsi nceIdon’ thavea
    womb. ..
    .hesaidIshouldbecomegaynowsi nce
    i
    m wombl essandhesai dallthatinfrontofthe
    neighbourskicki
    nganddr aggingmeout
    *
    **shet
    ookadeepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Vee:l
    ongst
    oryshortIpi
    ckedmy sel
    fupwiththe
    hel
    pofmyaunt,mayhersoul r
    estinpeaceand
    Imustsayi
    twasn’teasyatal
    l
    ...
    .i
    tsnever
    easy .
    ..
    ..andIf oundaj obher eandy ourmother
    neh, t
    hatwomankest arri
    ngsadi
    ghumghedl el
    a..
    ..
    shesawt hepaininmyey es
    andsai dt hatwhenev erIwantt otalkshe’s
    there..
    ..Thenonedayi tbecamet oomuchwhen
    Ibumpedi ntomyexandt hewomanhecheat ed
    withandshewaspr egnantwhi letheexwas
    holdingababygi rli
    nhi sar ms.
    ..
    .iopenedupt o
    Deeandshegotmehel pandhereIam t oday
    ***
    wow. .
    .i
    m herecr
    yingmyeyeball
    soutand
    she’
    scool l
    ikeacucumber
    ..
    ..
    .iguessshehas
    healed*
    **
    Vee:soIsurvi
    vedal
    lthatandsowil
    lyou.
    ..
    .dont
    rushthi
    ngsanddon’
    twai tf
    orhi
    skarmatov i
    sit
    him wenafocusonyouandhealandleav
    e
    everyt
    hingt
    oGodand. .
    .Dori
    s
    *
    **If
    oundmysel
    flaughi
    ngwi
    tht
    ear
    sal
    lov
    er
    myface*
    **
    Vee:
    all
    Iwantf
    rom y
    oui
    stoal
    l
    owy
    our
    sel
    fto
    feelthepai nt henst artheal ingandy ou’ llsee
    everythingwi llbef i
    ne. .
    ..
    Mhl abaal l
    owed
    depressi ont ot akeov erandsheki ll
    edher self
    fortonki el
    a. ...
    .wabonadepr essionkemasepa
    daideng. ..
    .ot l
    ai potsagor emot hooshap
    causewat shegaandopi laobeoi pot segor e
    wasgl owerkhant eogl owerdepr essi on
    mmh. ...
    depr essionel ey onaemogl owi sangso
    wear enotwai ti
    ngf ordepr ession,nowwe
    gonnagogetdr unkcauseDor isisnotcomi ng
    backt odayosai lojewamoghel e..
    ..
    .(Mhl aba
    all
    oweddepr essiont ot akeov erandsheki ll
    ed
    herselff orthatdonkey .
    ...youseedepr essioni s
    sh#tty ..
    .you’llthinktheper soni sf i
    nebecause
    she’sl aughi ngandshel ooksbeaut i
    f ul and
    you’l
    l event hi nkshe’ sgl owi ngbuty ou’ l
    lfindout
    she’sgl owi ngdepr ession. .
    .depr essionwi llbe
    thecul pritsowear enotwai ti
    ngf or
    depressi on...nowwegonnagoandgetdr unk
    causeDor i
    si snotcomi ngbackt oday , t
    hegi r
    lis
    goingt ogetf #ck#d)
    Me:
    ausVeet
    hat
    ’smymom
    Vee:
    hai
    suka.
    ..
    yourmom waj
    ewav
    ele
    *
    **Igi
    veupwi
    thhershem*
    **
    Vee:asIwassay ing..
    .wegonnagetdr unk,
    dance,crythenpassoutandwenat omor r
    ow
    you’
    llcontactt
    hattherapistDeefoundforyou
    andyou’llgogethelp.
    ..asker
    elal
    a
    ***
    Inoddedt
    henbr
    eat
    hedoutandshest
    ood
    up***
    Vee:oohIal
    sohav
    esomeweed.
    ...
    ebet
    ha
    st
    rongsoareye(it
    sst
    rongsol
    etsgo)
    ***y
    ouheardright
    ...
    ..
    she’sover40witha
    bangerbodyandshedr inksandsmokesweed
    l
    ikecrazybutthefacesay sngiy
    aphuzaand
    kakhul
    uf ut
    hi(Idr
    inkal ot)butweloveherl
    i
    ke
    that
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    NARRATED(Tshi
    mol
    ogo)

    **
    *Tshi
    mowalkedinwit
    hfoodandsheputt
    he
    pl
    atedownl
    ookingatt
    hemy st
    eryman*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    youcanteatl
    yi
    ngl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ..
    .okI
    ’
    llbe
    back
    ***shewalkedoutagai nandt heguybr eathed
    out..
    ..
    hedoesn’ tunderstandwhyshe’ shel
    ping
    him outli
    ket his, shedoesn’ tevenknowhi mt o
    behelpinghiml iket hi
    s..
    ..
    itkil
    lshimt hat
    besidesnothav ingcont r
    ol overhisbodyhe
    al
    sodoesn’ tknowwhohei s..
    ...
    .hedoesn’tev en
    knowt hatthenameher emember sishi sor
    someoneel se’ s..
    ..heclosedhi sey esforabr ief
    secondandhesawnumber sonaphone. .
    ..l
    ike
    someonewasdi alli
    ngthem. ..
    .Hequi ckl
    y
    openedhi sey esandsuddenl ydev el
    opeda
    headache...
    .hecl osedhi sey esagai nandt he
    headachewentawaysl
    owlyandheopenedhi
    s
    eyeswhenTshimowalkedi
    n***
    Tshimo:r
    ightyouneedtogetdressedandI
    needtohelpyoutositupsoyou’l
    lbrushy
    our
    teet
    handeat
    *
    **heswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Tshi
    mo: sawar
    a(don’
    twor
    ry)I
    ’
    veal
    ready
    seenyounaked
    ***hesi
    ghed...
    ”t
    hisgi
    rlisweir
    d”he
    thought
    ..
    ..
    anywayshehel pedhim getdressed
    andhismemberbet rayedhim..
    ..
    hest oodfir
    m
    andTshimot ri
    edbyallmeanst oi
    gnor eitwhil
    e
    theguyisjustembarrassed***
    Tshi
    mo:therewegosoIhavetoputy
    ouonthe
    fl
    oorsoI
    ’l
    lturnthemat
    tr
    essthi
    ssi
    deandI’
    l
    lbe
    abl
    etoputpill
    owsonthewal
    lsoyou’
    l
    lsi
    tupok
    ***
    hej ustnodded.
    ..
    hehatedthis.
    ..
    ..
    he’stwi
    ce
    hersizeandont opofthatshe’
    sshor t
    ..
    ..
    ”why
    di
    dn’tIjustdi
    e”hethought.
    ..
    .anywayshe
    draggedhimf rom t
    hemat t
    ressandshe
    changedi t
    spositi
    onandpushedi tt
    ot hewall
    thenshepul l
    edhim backonthemat t
    ressand
    putpil
    lowsont hewallandhelpedhim situp
    withhisbackagainstthewallt
    henshesat
    downbr eathi
    ngheav i
    l
    y..
    ..
    hewasi mpressedby
    herstrength*
    **
    Man:
    youok
    Tshi
    mo:
    oboi
    may
    eer(y
    ou’
    reheav
    y)
    Man:
    whyar
    eyoudoi
    ngt
    his
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandshr
    uggedhershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:becauseIt
    rustmygi
    ftandIhav
    ea
    goodhear
    t
    Man:
    youcouldbeputti
    ngy
    ourl
    if
    eindanger
    mama..
    ..
    whatyou’
    redoi
    ngi
    sri
    sky
    *
    **shei
    gnor
    edt
    hat“
    mama”par
    t**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:l
    ikeIsai
    dIt
    rustt
    hegif
    tIhav
    e,It
    rust
    GodandItr
    ustmyAncest
    ors
    Man:evenatthaty
    oushouldn’
    tbet
    oot r
    usti
    ng
    rememberthedevi
    lissl
    yandhecanpretendto
    beyourgui
    dessoy ouhel
    pandhestri
    kes
    *
    **Tshi
    moswal
    l
    owedhar
    dlooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Man:im nott
    ryi
    ngt
    oscar
    eyoubutj
    ustbe
    car
    eful
    ***
    shenoddedandshegotupandwal
    ked
    out**
    *
    Man:shi
    t.
    ..
    icangi
    veadv
    icesaboutt
    hedev
    ilbut
    If
    ail
    torememberwhoIam
    ***hesaidtohimsel
    fsi t
    ti
    ngtheret
    henshe
    walkedbacki nandputawashi ngbasinwit
    h
    wat eri
    nsideandputtoothpast
    eona
    toothbrushshe’
    sholdingandshegav eitt
    o
    him* **
    Tshi
    mo:
    thi
    syoucandoy
    our
    sel
    f
    ***
    henoddedlooki
    ngatherandshedidn’
    tlook
    happy
    ..
    ..
    heslowlybr
    ushedhi
    steethandafter
    hewasdoneshet
    ookt
    hedi
    rt
    ywat
    erand
    wal
    kedout*
    **
    Man:
    eish
    ****
    shecamebackandgav ehim afacecl
    oths
    andhewi pedhismouthandhandandshegav e
    hi
    m hisfoodthenhegrabbedherhandandher
    eyespoppedoutasshel ookedathimtensed
    andheslowlyletgoofherhandandshemov ed
    awayfrom him wi
    thherheartbeat
    ingfast
    ***
    Man:im sor
    ry.
    ..
    .Ij
    ustwant
    edt
    osayi
    m sor
    ry
    aboutwhatIsai
    d
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Man: af
    terIsai
    dt hataboutt
    hedev
    ily
    ou
    changedandi m sorr
    y
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo:youshoul
    dn’
    tapologi
    ze...
    .i
    m notmad
    atyou.
    ..
    .i
    m madcauseyou’reri
    ght..
    ..
    imtoo
    tr
    usti
    ngandIalwaysgethurt.
    ..
    alwaysbutI
    nev
    erl
    ear
    n..
    .myki
    ndhear
    tist
    obebl
    amed
    ***
    hesighedandt
    ookthespoonandst
    art
    ed
    eati
    ngslowl
    yasshewalkedout
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    LATERON

    JABU

    ***Iknowshet oldmetoleavebutIcant .
    ..
    she’s
    notokandi m notabouttoleaveherli
    ket his.
    ..
    ..
    i
    knowshe’ smadcauseIcantt ell
    herwhyI
    tr
    eat edherl
    i
    ket hatandwhyIsaiditsherf ault
    Lil
    eisgonebutIcantt el
    lhershe’smychosen
    oneandmydaught erisgonecauseIdidn’ t
    l
    istentothei
    rwar ni
    ng..
    ..
    Asforthatbastardone
    dayisoneday ,fornowRuu’sadv i
    ceiswor king
    i
    nmyf avourbutifitst
    opsworki
    ngi
    m doi
    ng
    thi
    ngsmyway .
    ..
    .myphoneri
    ngsandit
    ’sa
    numberIdon’trecogni
    ze*
    **
    Me:
    sho
    Voi
    ce:
    h..
    .hi
    Jabui
    tsmeAmogel
    ang
    ***
    Ifel
    tmyinsi
    destur
    nandmyhandsst
    art
    shaki
    ngasangert
    akesover
    ***
    Me:
    ony
    akang(whatdoy
    ouwant
    )
    Amo:
    im sor
    ryJabupl
    easef
    orgi
    veme
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Jabu:
    ISAI
    DWHATDOYOUWANTMAHN!
    !!
    ***
    hesaidshout
    ingst
    andi
    ngupwhichmade
    Lorr
    ainet
    ostart
    lei
    nsi
    dethebedr
    oom**
    *
    Amo:
    tomeetandt
    alk.
    ..
    .pl
    ease
    Jabu: i
    m surebaol
    oyawena..
    ..
    inf
    actbal
    oibao
    berekisawena(im sur
    eyou’r
    ebewit
    ched..
    .i
    n
    factthewitchesar
    eusingyou)
    Amo:
    babyi
    m..
    ..
    Jabu:heiheihei
    ...
    .babymomang..
    ..
    wa
    tshwareganeh..
    .kebabyyagaonna
    *
    **Amokeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Amo:Iwanttof
    ixthingsJabupl
    easejust
    ..
    .f
    or
    SbuJabulet
    sfi
    xthingsforhi
    m heneedsboth
    hi
    sparent
    s
    Jabu:
    aski
    es
    Amo: i
    m hismot herandnothingwi l
    lchange
    that..
    .il
    ovet hatboyJabuandi m sureitski
    ll
    i
    ng
    himt hatthingsbet weenusar eli
    ket hisandim
    will
    ingtof allpregnantagaintoreplacewhatwe
    l
    ost .
    ..
    .im wil
    lingtodoany thingtohav eyou
    forgivemeJabu
    ***
    Jabuchuckl ednotbel
    ievi
    ngthatthat’
    swhat
    hemarried.
    ..
    .heaskedhimselfi
    fhewast hat
    bli
    ndtohavef all
    entoher
    ...
    hewasconf used
    causetheAmohedat edandmar ri
    edisnot hi
    ng
    l
    ikethi
    sAmo. ...
    somethi
    ngmustbewr ong
    causenobodychangesl
    i
    kethi
    sorshewas
    pret
    endi
    ngallal
    ong“heaskedhi
    mself”*
    **
    Jabu:Iwouldsayt samothwasacauseekareo
    gafi
    sakebadi mobutnowenaonot lhoka
    weskoppiesfela.
    ..
    stopcall
    i
    ngmeompot sa
    masepa...
    inf
    actompot sannyw#n#...
    .mot#t#
    fel
    anxay oushould’vebeentheonewho’sdead
    notJabuli
    le.
    ..
    .OREYOUWANTTOREPLACE
    MYDAUGHTERTHEONEYOUANDYOURCULT
    BOYFRIENDKI LLEDHEH. ..
    .YOUWANNA
    REPLACEHERWI THYOURBEWI TCHED
    WOMB. ..
    .ONTLWAELANNYW#N#
    AMOGELANG. .
    ..WANNYELA
    MSUNU. .
    ..WANTLWAELAWENANXA. .
    ..
    never
    cal
    lmewankut l
    wa...
    .nev
    erever
    Amo:
    Jabu
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Jabu:
    FOTSEK!
    !!
    !
    *
    **t
    henhedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landt
    hrewhi
    sphone
    againstthewal l
    screami
    ngwhi chmadeLol l
    yto
    j
    umpf r
    ightened,she’
    sbeenstandingthere
    l
    isteni
    ngandl ookingathi
    m ashei nsult
    edhis
    wife..
    ..
    hepacedupanddownt r
    yingtocalm
    downandt earsrandownhischeeks...
    ..
    he’
    s
    evenshaking* *
    *
    Jabu: kohealerbyangheh.
    ..
    .kohealerbyang
    Lorrai
    nesf #beseselebusysengf ounel
    a..
    ..
    ko
    healerbyangLollympotse(howam Igonna
    heal..
    ..
    howam Igonnaheal Lorr
    ainewhent hat
    b#tchi sbusycall
    ingme..
    ..
    howam Igonnaheal
    Loll
    yt el
    lme)
    ***
    Lorr
    ainestoodt
    her
    enotknowi
    ngwhatt
    o
    sayordo***
    Jabu:shekil
    ledmydaught erLoll
    y.
    ..myonl y
    daughter
    ..
    ..
    naesal encosiLoll
    ybutobodi le
    botl
    hoko..
    ..
    botl
    hokoLolly(shewasst i
    l
    l ababy
    andshediedapai nful
    death..
    .apainfuldeath
    Lol
    ly)
    ***
    sherushedtohi
    m asherownt
    earsbetr
    ayed
    herandshehuggedhi
    m andhehel
    dont oher
    ti
    ghtbr
    eakingdowncryi
    ng***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    AFTERSOMETI
    ME

    Jabu:
    Ineedt
    oli
    edownabi
    t
    Lol
    l
    y:okl
    etsgoy
    ou’
    l
    lsl
    eepi
    nthebedr
    oom
    ***t
    heywenttot
    hebedroom andshelookedat
    him sur
    pri
    sedwhenhetookoffhiscl
    othesand
    remainedwit
    honlyhi
    sbri
    efsthenhesatatthe
    edgeofthebed*
    **
    Jabu:don’
    tyouhavepai
    nki
    l
    lersforthi
    s
    headachei
    m havi
    nglesl
    eepingpi
    ll
    snyana
    Lol
    l
    y:ummm l
    etmegogett
    hem
    **
    *shewal
    kedoutandsooncamebackwi
    tha
    gl
    assofwat
    erandgavehimthepi
    l
    lsandt
    he
    gl
    ass**
    *
    Jabu:
    Thaa(t
    hanks)
    **
    *hedrankt hepi
    ll
    sandshetookthenow
    emptyglassandputitawayandhelaiddown
    onthebedf aci
    ngthecei
    li
    ng..
    ..
    herey
    eswentto
    hi
    sd#ckpr i
    ntandsheswallowedhardand
    l
    ookedawayqui ckl
    y**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:wi
    l
    lyoubeok
    Jabu:
    yeahl
    etmeshutey
    eforabi
    tandI
    ’
    llf
    ine
    Lol
    l
    y:ok
    *
    **shet
    ookt
    hegl
    assandwal
    kedout
    ***

    FOURHOURSLATER

    *
    **Lor
    rai
    nei
    swat
    chi
    ngTVeat
    ingsnacksand
    al
    sor
    eadi
    ngherf
    avour
    it
    enov
    elonFacebook*
    **
    Jabu:
    comeandsl
    eepi
    tsl
    ate
    *
    **Jabu’
    ssl
    eepyv
    oicest
    art
    lesher
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:ei
    shJabuy
    ouscar
    edme
    Jabu:
    aski
    est
    laot
    lor
    obal
    a(sor
    rycomeand
    sl
    eep)
    *
    **shecl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    tsokI
    ’
    llsl
    eepher
    eont
    hecouch
    ***
    hewal kedfurt
    heri
    nandt ooktheremoteand
    switchedofftheTVthenwenttocheckifthe
    doorislockedandtooktheglassandbowl of
    snacksshewasf easti
    ngonandhet ookthem
    tothekitchenandheswi t
    chedofftheli
    ghts*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu.
    ..
    Jabu:
    let
    sgo
    *
    **hesai
    dhel
    pingherupandshesi
    ghedasshe
    f
    oll
    owedhimt
    ot hebedr
    oom..
    ..
    shegoti
    nand
    t
    ookof
    fhergownashegotunder
    cov
    ers*
    **
    Jabu:
    what
    Lol
    l
    y:not
    hing.
    ..
    .
    Jabu:
    okt
    hent
    laor
    obal
    e(okt
    hencomeand
    sl
    eep)
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ysi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:y
    oudoknowi tsinappr
    opri
    ater
    ight
    ..
    ..
    you
    sti
    l
    lmar r
    iedandIhaveaboyfri
    end
    Jabu:
    andIdon’
    tcar
    e..
    .comet
    obedt
    uu
    ***
    hesaidopeni
    ngt hecoversonhersi de
    yawni
    ngandshesl owlywentt othebedandgot
    i
    nandJabuf i
    xedthecov er
    sf orher.
    ..
    hepulled
    hercl
    oserandsher est
    edherheadonhi schest
    andheheldherti
    ghtandclosedhi seyes***
    Jabu:
    don’tov
    erthi
    nki
    t.
    ..
    wear
    enotf
    #cki
    ng
    werej
    ustshari
    ngabed
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandr
    elaxedabi
    t*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    m st
    il
    langr
    yaty
    ou
    Jabu:
    mmmmhIknow
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thasexysl
    eepyv
    oice*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:andi
    m notr
    eadyt
    ofor
    giv
    eyou
    Jabu:
    IknowandIwontgi
    veupunt
    ily
    oudo
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    ouhur
    tmeJabu
    *
    **heki
    ssedt
    het
    opofherhead*
    **
    Jabu:im sor
    ryandi
    m gonnabesor
    ryf
    ort
    he
    restofourli
    ves
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Jabu:
    andpleasedon’
    tbet
    ooangr
    yatme.
    ..
    .Sbu
    andIneedy
    ou
    *
    **sheclear
    edherthr
    oatandkeptqui
    et.
    ..
    .”
    what
    t
    hehellam Idoi
    ng”shet
    hought**
    *
    Jabu:
    goodni
    ght
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    that
    ir
    edandsl
    eepyv
    oice*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TAREK

    ***
    Im busyhi tt
    ingitfrom behindsp#nki ngher
    j
    ell
    yb#t tasI m dri
    ll
    inginherdeeper ..
    .she
    moansoutl oudholdingt i
    ghttothebedsheet s
    whileIgroan...
    .Imustsayherp#ssyi ssweetor
    i
    sitbecauseshe’ spregnant,anywayi conti
    nued
    togoi nandoutofhergr oaningenj oy i
    ng
    my selfwhenmyphoner ang...
    .ij
    usttookapeek
    ont hescreenst i
    llf
    #ck#ngherf r
    om behi ndwi t
    h
    sweatal lovermeandwhenIsawwhot he
    cal
    lerismyhear tnearlystoppedbeat ing..
    ..
    i
    don’tevenknowwhenIpul l
    edoutofSamke
    andr ushedt omyphonebutIdi d...
    .iquickly
    answer edittry
    ingtocont rolmybr eathing***
    Me:
    stha.
    ..
    sthandwasam.
    ..
    babyi
    sthaty
    ou
    ***
    Icanfeel
    Samke’
    sey
    esonmeandi
    m sur
    e
    she’
    sli
    vi
    dbynowmxm tsek!
    !*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yeswenal
    emar
    #t#amanny
    ane
    *
    **t
    henshegi
    ggl
    ed.
    ..
    whatt
    he.
    ..
    .*
    **
    Me:
    Shal
    atear
    eyou.
    ..
    .ar
    eyouhi
    gh
    Hill
    s:Ij
    ust...
    ij
    ustwantedtotell
    youthati
    m
    divor
    cingyouandt hatI’
    vejustr
    eali
    zedgoreI
    ’v
    e
    beenmi ssingout.
    ..
    igotf#ckedbyamanwi tha
    huged#ckandImustsayi m ahappy
    woman. ..
    hegav ei
    ttomegoodandhemademy
    toescurl
    ***
    thenshegiggl
    edagai
    nandIf
    eltmyhear
    t
    shutt
    ert
    opieces***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    damnt
    hissh#ti
    sgood
    Me:
    Shalat
    edon’
    tpl
    ayli
    kethi
    sok..
    .pl
    easehur
    t
    meanyhowyouwantbutnotl
    iket
    his
    Hi
    ll
    s:whosai
    dim pl
    aying.
    ..
    .bannabaj
    akukuka
    montl
    ekamokadi bazookawenaobusyo
    cheatakant switswieo(menar ebusyeati
    ng
    thecookieoutt herewit
    hbazookasandy ou’
    re
    busycheatingwi thasmalld#ck)..
    .soyoucan
    givethataveraged#ckofy our
    st oyourbaby
    mamacausennaI ’
    vegotmyselfanewbazooka
    andhe’sloadedandhandsomet oo.
    ..
    .t
    hankyou
    forcheati
    ngskat
    *
    **thenshelaughedanddr
    oppedthecallandI
    l
    ookedatmyphonewi t
    hmyhandsshakingand
    myheartbeati
    ngatanabnormalr
    ate..
    ..
    f#ckI
    t
    hinkim gonnahaveahear
    tatt
    ack***
    Samke:
    arey
    ouok
    **
    *Ijustshookmyheadandsl
    owl
    ysatdown
    wit
    hmyhandonmychest *
    **
    Samke:
    Tar
    ek.
    ..
    ***
    Ihopeshe’
    splayi
    ngwithme..
    ..
    ihopewhat
    shesai
    disnottr
    ue..
    .noshecant
    ..
    .shel
    ovesme,
    shewontdothattome***
    Smake:
    oohmyGoshi
    m cal
    l
    inganambul
    ance
    okhol
    don.
    ..

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED

    *
    **Meanwhil
    eausVeeandHi
    l
    lsar
    ebusy
    l
    aughi
    ngthei
    rb#tt
    soff
    ***
    Vee:
    yhoShal
    atey
    ougothi
    m good
    ***
    Hill
    scontinuedt
    olaughunti
    lshechockedon
    herownsal i
    vaandshecougheduncont r
    oll
    ably
    unti
    lshestoppedthenshetookanotherpuff
    andreleasedandconti
    nuedtolaughwhich
    madeausVeet oj
    oinherandtheylaughedthei
    r
    b#tt
    sof f*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    IWASDI SCHARGEDFROM THEHOSPI
    TALBUT
    IM STI
    LLNOTWELLPLEASEUNDERSTAND
    ANDBEARWI THME.
    ..
    MYEYESARENOTA- OK
    BUTIMANAGEDTOTYPEANI NSERTFOR
    YALL..
    .ENJOY!

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER12
    .
    .
    .
    NARRATED(TSHI
    MOLOGO)

    ***She’sbusyprayi
    ngtryi
    ngtoconnectwi t
    h
    Godandhergui desaboutthesituat
    ionshe’s
    i
    n...
    .she’
    sdeepinherprayerwhenachi l
    li
    ng
    demon- l
    ikescr
    eam fi
    ll
    sherbedroom andachi l
    l
    randownherspi ne,
    shef r
    eezesbutthensnaps
    outofitandshecontinuestoprayharder*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    stop
    ***
    shest opsprayingwi
    thherhear tpoundi
    ng
    hard..
    .sheknowst hi
    svoi
    ceev eryti
    meshet ri
    es
    tohelpsomeoneandshedoesn’ tknowhowt o
    goabouti ti
    tgi
    v esheri
    nstruct
    ions..
    ..
    soshe
    quickl
    ystoodupandwentt oswitchont he
    l
    ightsandscansherbedr oom* **
    Tshi
    mo: GodandmyAncestor
    spleasebewith
    me..
    .pl
    easeprot
    ectme.
    ..
    .what
    ’sgoi
    ngon..
    .t
    alk
    tomepleasewhat’
    sgoi
    ngon
    Voi
    ce:
    redandwhi
    tecandl
    es.
    ..
    taker
    edand
    whi
    tecandl
    es
    ***shequi
    cklyreachesforthem andasshe
    tr
    iestoli
    ghtther edonesinceonlyt
    hewhit
    e
    onewasl i
    tthev oicespoke**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    hel
    phi
    m..
    .t
    aket
    hem andgoandhel
    phi
    m
    ***
    shefrownedthenitcli
    ckedthatshe’
    snot
    al
    oneinherhome, ther
    e’samanshe’ s
    supposedtohel
    p. .
    .al
    arm bell
    sranginherhead
    aspanictookoverandshegotupandgat her
    ed
    herthi
    ngsandrushedoutpr ayi
    ng***
    Tshimo:Modi
    mowakawenamongadi wago
    l
    oka,wenaKgoshi yadi Kgoshi
    ,wenaTauy aba
    Juta,wenaModi
    mowaBadi mobakakaor apel
    a
    papakekgopel
    at shir
    eletso.
    ..
    ebalennale
    monnay oomor omet senggorekemot huseka
    orapelamon’
    gadi wagol oka
    *
    **sheopenedhi
    sdoorandwhatshesaw
    madehershakei
    nherboots*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(ALPHALETTE)

    ***
    He’ ssl
    eepi
    ngpeacef
    ull
    ydreamingst
    andi
    ng
    ontopofamount ai
    nwithhisfat
    herbyhi
    ssi
    de
    tal
    king***
    Alpha:bababutwhydoIhav etobetheoneto
    payof ft
    hedebt.
    ..
    .il
    oveherbabaandIcanthur
    t
    her.
    ..
    .she’
    ssickandhermotheriscr
    azy
    *
    **hesai
    dpl
    eadi
    ngwi
    thhi
    sfat
    her
    ***
    Fat
    her
    :it
    sei
    thery
    ouory
    oursonNt
    sako
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Father
    :don’
    tbel
    ikeme...
    .dowhatyouar
    e
    askedandrememberthere’
    sareasonwhyt
    hey
    arepushi
    ngfort
    hist
    ohappen...
    .
    Al
    pha:
    whyme
    Father
    :causeyou’retheonebesidesGazankul
    u
    whocanpul l
    itoffandpl usGazaisnotonthe
    ri
    ghtstat
    eofmi ne..
    ..
    .whathewentthrough
    messedhim up...
    .he’
    l
    l pull
    thr
    oughbuthewont
    besameany mor esot heycantl
    ethim dot
    his
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ebr
    ushedhi
    sface*
    **
    Father:notever
    ythi
    ngisati
    tseem withthi
    s
    requestjustt
    rustusandpayoffthisdebtt
    hat’s
    gonnabecl earoffyouandtheenti
    regenerat
    ion
    goingforward..
    ..
    notonl
    yyoursonswi l
    lsuf
    fer
    butGazankulu’stoocauseyou’
    rethechosen
    ones
    *
    **t
    hent
    hef
    atherf
    rowned*
    **
    Fat
    her:t
    heynowknowhe’sal
    i
    ve.
    ..
    .goandhel
    p
    hi
    m...
    .HELPHIM NTSAKO
    ***
    thenhepushedhim of
    fthemountai
    nandhe
    fel
    ltothebot
    tom scr
    eaminghi
    slungsout
    scaredandhewokeupgaspingforai
    r**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    hel
    phi
    m
    ***ashe’stryi
    ngt ocal
    m hi sbreathingdownhi s
    mindwentt oGazankul uandhequi ckl
    ygotout
    ofbedandher ushedout .
    ..
    ..
    Hegoti nsidehis
    Ndombabar efootandqui cklyreachedf orhis
    Ancestralcl
    othandwr appedi taroundhi swaist
    andher eachedf ormpephoandl i
    titthenhe
    reachedforhisAncest ralbonesandsnuf fand
    hepour edthesnuf font opofhisgoatski n
    smallmatandhespoket othebonesand
    empt i
    edthebagf i
    ll
    edwi ththem andhel ooked
    atthem frowning***
    Al
    pha:okmpheref
    ere.
    ..
    thwadi
    may
    amabona
    i
    sh.
    ..
    setl
    hakook.
    ..
    .l
    egwamel a
    magudusha.
    ..
    mmmhokIsee
    ***
    hepickedthebonesandputt hem insidethe
    bagandputitawayt henhereachedforahuge
    cl
    aypotandlitanotherbunchofmpephoand
    putiti
    nsi
    dethenher eachedforhismut hi
    mixedwithLi
    on’sfat/oi
    landrubbeditonhi s
    handsandfaceandt henhereachedf oranother
    oneandhepour edi nsidethepotchant i
    ng
    things....
    her eachedf oranot heroneanddi dt he
    samet hing. .
    ..
    her eachedf ora2l it
    r ebottl
    eof
    pet r
    ol andpour edt wodr opsi nsi
    det hepotand
    bluef l
    amer oseupashechant edthenhe
    reachedf orhissteel spearandchant edsome
    wor dsl ookingupandhi sbodyst artedshaking
    assweatcov eredhi swhol ebody .
    ..hiseyes
    turnedal lwhi t
    eandhi sv oi
    cechangedashe
    chant edcal l
    ingoutal l
    hisAncest orstell
    ing
    them t ogoandpr otectGazankul uthenhe
    changedl anguagesandst artedchant i
    ngina
    foreignl anguagef orsomet ime***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(
    TSHI
    MO)

    *
    **Wi
    tht
    wol
    i
    tupcandl
    esTshi
    moi
    spr
    ayi
    ng
    hardastheguyi sscr
    eamingpainf
    ull
    ywithhis
    eyesshut..
    ..he’
    sly
    ingonhisbackinacross
    posit
    ionfacingupevenhisar
    msar espreadout
    onhissideswi t
    hhisent
    ir
    ebodyshaking..
    ..
    he’
    s
    bl
    eedingonhi sfor
    eheadbutyoucan’
    tseet he
    wound***
    Tshimo: wenaKony anay agolokakaobi tsa
    Tauy abaJut aker etheogal eMangel oiagaoa
    makget hwa. .
    .etlangl etl
    orelwanela...
    .ngwana
    wagaoashuot l
    hokat husoModi mowaka, o
    tl
    haset swekedi raKgoshi yadi Kgoshi.
    ...
    kere
    tl
    ooMongadi wagol okaot heogekabogol oba
    gaol eMangel oiagaoamakget hwaot lo
    mol wanel a..
    ..
    Tlooommey eletsogolagaol ele
    halalelang....
    thi
    belamol ekoModi mo
    waka. ..
    thibelamol ekoKgoshi yadi
    Kgoshi ..
    ..
    thibelamol ekoTauy a
    baJut a..
    ..
    Thibelamol ekowenaModi mowa
    Badimobaka. .
    ..
    kaobi tsakalebitsol
    aJeso
    Kresteker ebont shabogol obagaokamonna
    oo..
    .bontshamatlaagaoTauy
    abaJut
    aka
    ene.
    ..kgalemel
    alenyat
    soModi
    mowaka
    ***
    shepr ayedhardcryingandshoutingtoa
    pointthatherbodyst artedshaki
    ng..
    .the
    candlesf l
    ickedviol
    entl
    yasshepr ayed..
    .she
    couldf eelsomesor tofpresencebehindheras
    shepr ayedhar d.
    ..
    .Asfortheguy(MrD)hi s
    screamsdi eddown* **
    Man:pl
    ea.
    ..
    .pl
    eas.
    ..
    .pl
    eas...
    please.
    ..
    .net
    shi
    ket
    e
    ni
    famba(letmego) .
    ..
    pleas.
    ..
    ***
    hesaidsoundingli
    kehe’
    sbeggingand
    Tshimodidn’tst
    opshecont
    inuedtoprayt
    hen
    hekeptquietbuthi
    sbodysti
    llshook*
    **

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    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED
    ***Alphalett
    et henstabbedi nsi
    det heclaypot
    stil
    lchantinginaf oreignlanguageandt he
    fl
    ameschangedcol ourt oredlikethecol ourof
    bloodandscr eamingsoundscameoutoft he
    pot..
    ..hepull
    edt hespearoutandst abbedagain
    andagai nandagai nt henhest oppedwhent he
    screami ngsoundsdi edandhi seyeschanged
    backt onor mal andhel ookedatt hef l
    ames* **
    Al
    pha:
    diemby
    ana(di
    edog)
    ***hesaidbr eat
    hingheav i
    lywithascar yf rown
    onhi sface..
    .hethenpul ledoutt hespearand
    thet i
    pofi twascov er
    edwi thbloodandheputi t
    ont opoft hepott henhegotupandwal ked
    out...
    ..
    hecamebackwi thabucketf i
    ll
    edwi th
    wat erandhet ookabot tl
    ewi thwateryliquid
    i
    nsideandheopenedi tandpour edinsidet he
    pott henhef i
    ll
    edt hepotwi t
    hwat erandy oucan
    seet hatthewat erinnowr edincolour.
    ...he
    chant edsomewor dsandhegotupandhe
    walkedoutcl osingandl ockingt hedoor* **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(TSHI
    MO)

    Tshi
    mo: t
    hanky ouGod.
    ..
    thankyouMangeloia
    makgethwa..
    .t
    hankyouJesus..
    ..
    thankyouour
    Ancest
    ors.
    ..
    .myGuidesthankyou..
    ..
    thanky
    ou
    somuch...
    ***
    shesaidwipingherf
    aceandhegotcloser
    andtouchedhisarmsandmov edthem t
    olay
    ontopofhisstomachandsheclosedhereyes
    wit
    hherhandsont opofhi
    s***
    Tshi
    mo: aMohauwaModi
    mo, kabel
    ole
    matshi
    disodi
    beler
    onakanakotsotl
    he.
    ..
    Amen
    **
    *thensheopenedhereyesandshelookedat
    hi
    m. .
    ..
    shegotupandgothisfacecl
    othand
    ti
    ssueandshewi pedthebloodof fwitht he
    ti
    ssuethenshewi pedhi
    sfaceandsatt here
    l
    ookingathi m wi
    thasadl ookonher
    face.
    ..
    ..
    shegotupandwentt olockt hemai n
    houseandshecamebackandl ockedt hedoor
    thenshesatont heedgeoft hemat tresst he
    mani ssleepi
    ngonandshesi ghed***

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    -

    THEFOLLOWI
    NGDAY

    NARRATED(TSHI
    MO)
    Man:
    mama….
    mama….
    *
    **Tshi
    moqui
    ckl
    ywokeupandshookhi
    m**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ntsako…Nt
    sakowakeup….
    wakeup
    *
    ***
    hequi
    ckl
    yopenedhi
    sey
    esandy
    oucoul
    d
    seepani
    conhi
    sface*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    itsok…i
    tsok
    ***
    hepulledhert
    ohisbodyandheldhert i
    ght
    usi
    ngbot harmswithhishear
    tbeati
    ngfastand
    Tshimolethim…aft
    ersomet i
    mehel oosened
    hi
    sgr i
    pandshemov edfr
    om hi
    sbodyand
    l
    ookedathim andhewi pedsweatoffhisface
    wit
    hbot hhands*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    yourot
    herhand
    *
    **hel
    ookedathi
    slef
    thandandsi
    ghed*
    **
    Man:
    Iguessso
    *
    **hesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Man:
    youdon’
    tlookgood….
    what
    ’swr
    ong
    Tshi
    mo:
    youdon’
    trememberwhathappenedt
    o
    you
    Man:
    whatdoy
    oumean
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandt
    oldhi
    m whathappened*
    **
    Man:
    soIwasn’
    tdr
    eami
    ng
    Tshi
    mo:
    whatdoy
    oumean
    Man: Iwasinahutf il
    ledwithsmokeandt he
    wast hi
    sman…. ugl ylooki
    ngman…hekept
    sayingIescapedf rom himt hi
    nki
    nghewontf ind
    meagai n….hekeptsay i
    ngIcosthim al otand
    thatim precioust ohim…. hecutmyf orehead
    andt wohumanoi dthingswereholdingmy
    wristsonbot hsi deandIcoul dn’
    tmov e
    them…. hesai dheknowsmybr otherisnotthe
    onehel pingmeandt hathewillf
    indoutwho
    challengedhi m anddeal withhim orher
    *
    **Tshi
    moswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Man:hesai
    dhim andhi
    sthingshav
    ebeen
    sear
    chi
    ngformesinceIescaped
    Tshi
    mo:
    thi
    sisbad…r
    eal
    l
    ybad
    Man:youshouldj
    ustl
    etmegomama….
    idon’
    t
    wantt
    oputy ourl
    i
    feindanger
    Voi
    ce:
    no
    *
    **Tshi
    mogotst
    art
    ledandshel
    ookedar
    ound
    t
    henshesi
    ghedasshecal
    msdown* *
    *
    Tshimo:no….t
    her
    e’sar
    easonwhyy
    oucame
    hereNtsako
    Man:
    butt
    hatman
    Tshimo: Imanagedtodefeathimlastnightso
    hecanbr ingiton…..
    mymot herwhenshewas
    sti
    llali
    veusedtotell
    met hatmoloitshwanetse
    atshabewenanotgor ewhenot shabeyena(a
    witchissupposedtobescar edofyounotf or
    yout obescaredofhim orher)
    ….you’rel
    ightand
    heorshei sdarknessandli
    ghtalway swinsat
    theend
    *
    **t
    hemansi
    ghed*
    **
    Man:
    youdi
    dn’
    tgethur
    tri
    ght
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    justhav
    eaheadacheIhar
    dlysl
    ept
    Man:
    youshoul
    dgoandsl
    eepI
    ’
    llbef
    ine
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:youneedt obat
    handeatt
    henIneedto
    goseeadoctorforalet
    terf
    ormyboss….
    idon’
    t
    wannal
    osemyj ob
    ***
    *heclosedhi
    sey
    esabi
    twi
    thaheav
    y
    heart
    ***
    Man:
    youshoul
    dgot
    owor
    kthenI
    ’
    llbef
    ine
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ineedaf
    ewday
    sof
    fany
    way
    s
    *
    **shegotup*
    **
    Tshimo:l
    etmeprepar
    ey oubathi
    ng
    water….
    wait
    …canyoufeelyourwhol
    ebodynow
    ***
    Hemovedhislef
    tar
    mt r
    iedtot
    wisthi
    sbody
    andhi
    sbodyagreed….
    hetwist
    editt
    othesi
    des
    andbot
    hhiseyesandTshi
    mo’spoppedout
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohmyGod
    **
    *hetr
    iedt
    omov ehi
    sbodysohesitsupand
    sl
    owlyhemanagedwi
    thhi
    sheartbeati
    ngfast
    **
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    goodLor
    d!!
    !.
    ..
    mov
    eyourl
    egs
    **
    *hetr
    iedthengr
    oanedwi
    thpai
    nandhe
    st
    opped***
    Tshi
    mo:
    you’
    reheal
    i
    ng
    *
    **shesai
    dsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    letmebr
    ingy
    ouwat
    ersoy
    oubat
    h

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(
    TAREK)

    ***
    Hismot heri
    sinhiswar dbei
    ngdramati
    cand
    Tarekisannoyedli
    kecrazy,al
    lhi
    smindis
    thi
    nkingaboutisHil
    l
    s..
    ..
    ifshesaidwhatshe
    saidtohurthi
    m orifwhatshesai
    distrue.
    ..
    .Hi
    s
    heartstar
    tedbeati
    ngfastashepict
    uredher
    beingf#ck#dbyanotherman..
    ..
    Themachines
    start
    edbeepingloud*
    **
    Khet
    hiwe:
    oohmyGodmybaby
    ***
    hetookdeepbr
    eathsashetr
    iedtocal
    m
    downandtheyst
    oppedbeepi
    ng***
    Khet
    hiwe:
    boy
    zaar
    eyouok
    *
    **heal
    mostr
    oll
    edhi
    sey
    esather
    ***
    Tar
    :yeahi
    m ok
    Khet
    hiwe:
    don’
    tscar
    emel
    i
    ket
    hatagai
    n
    Tar
    :it
    snot
    hinghect
    icandI
    ’
    llbef
    iney
    oudon’
    t
    hav
    etoworry
    Khet
    hiwe:
    don’tt
    ell
    methatnonsense….
    you’
    re
    mysonIwill
    alwayswor
    ryaboutyou
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Khet
    hiwe:
    umamakaboysai
    dyouhadt
    his
    pani
    catt
    ackri
    ghtaf
    tery
    out
    alkedt
    othat
    usel
    essgi
    rl
    Tar:l
    eav
    emywi feoutoft
    hismaandcanyou
    stopcal
    l
    ingherusel
    esscausebel
    i
    evemeshe’
    s
    not
    Khethi
    we:yessheis…shefail
    edasa
    woman…shef ai
    ledtogiv
    ey ouachi
    l
    dbecause
    ofherusel
    esswomb
    Tar:enough!!
    !…that’
    smywi f
    eandIloveher
    wit
    hev eryt
    hinginme…. nowIseethateveryone
    wasr i
    ghtabouty ou….
    thatwomancan’ tgi
    veme
    chi
    ldrenbecauseshesav edmyli
    fe….i
    couldbe
    deadorpar al
    yzednowbutbecauseofheri m ok
    *
    **Khet
    hiwer
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Khethi
    we: It
    oldyouIdon’tappr
    oveofherand
    shedoesn’tfi
    ttobey ourwif
    ebutyoudidn’
    t
    l
    ist
    en…looknowy ou’rehavi
    ngpanic
    att
    acks….usel
    essil
    lnessesforweakfool
    s…all
    becauseofthatgir
    l
    Tar
    :leav
    emot
    her
    Khet
    hiwe:
    angi
    zwanga(whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    )
    Tar
    :Ineedt
    orest
    …pl
    ease
    *
    **shechuckl
    edbi
    tt
    erl
    y**
    *
    Khet
    hiwe:al
    lbecauseIt
    oldy
    out
    het
    rut
    hyou
    don’
    twanttohearnxa
    ***shepi
    ckedherbagandki
    ssedhi
    scheek
    thenshewalkedoutmumbli
    ngthi
    ngsandhe
    sighed*
    **
    Tar:Ihopeyouwereonl
    ytr
    yingt
    ohur
    tme
    Shalatecausei
    fyoudi
    dcheatonmeall
    hel
    lwi
    l
    l
    breakloose
    *
    **hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    flooki
    ngangr
    y**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    MOERA

    ***BeforeMasai l
    eftf
    orwork,sheaskedt hatI
    takeAJf rom daycaretobabydaddy’splace
    afterworkcausebabydaddyi sbusysohewont
    beabl etofetchhi
    m andshe’sgonnahav ea
    busydayt odayandshe’ll
    knockofflate,
    soi m
    aboutt oknockoffwhenmyphoner i
    ngsandi ts
    Alex’sbrother*
    **
    Me:
    hel
    l
    o
    Dr
    ench:
    Mohowar
    eyou
    Me:
    im goodandy
    ou
    Dr
    ench:
    im good….
    iwasj
    ustchecki
    ngupony
    ou
    Me:
    oohokt
    hanks
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat*
    **
    Dr
    ench:
    sohowhav
    eyoubeen
    Me:
    I’
    vebeengood…wor
    kst
    ressnj
    e
    Drench:
    oksot
    ell
    mewhyy
    ou’
    rest
    il
    lwor
    king
    again
    *
    **Il
    aughed*
    **
    Me:
    exper
    ienceDr
    e…exper
    ience
    Drench:welli
    fyouweremineI
    ’dmakesurey
    ou
    getthatexper
    iencewhi
    ley
    ou’r
    etheboss
    *
    **hesai
    dser
    iousl
    y….
    mmmhok….any
    wayIj
    ust
    l
    aughed*
    **
    Me: wellIhaveever
    ythingplannedout…thi
    sway
    whenIl eaveI’
    ll
    leav
    ewi thsomecl i
    entssoIm
    notjustslavi
    ngawayf orthatarr
    ogantfoolfor
    nothing
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Drench:Il
    oveyourwayoft
    hinki
    ngand
    analysi
    ngthi
    ngs
    Me:
    youhav
    etobesmar
    tify
    ou’
    reahust
    ler
    Dr
    ench:
    true
    Me:
    sohowy
    oudoi
    ng…how’
    sev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    Dr
    ench:
    im maki
    ngmoneysoi
    m happy
    *
    **Il
    aughed*
    **
    Dr
    ench:looki
    m comingthatsi
    dei
    nthr
    ee
    weeks’
    timesoletsdolunch
    Me:
    okI
    ’
    llseey
    out
    hen
    Dr
    ench:great….enj
    oyt
    her
    estofy
    ourdayand
    gr
    eetyoursisters
    Me:
    wil
    ldo…by
    e
    *
    **heendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Me:
    ok!
    **
    *Igotupandpackedmyt hi
    ngsandasi
    m
    walki
    ngtot
    hedooritopenedandinwal
    kedMr
    ar
    rogant
    Boss:
    goi
    nghomeal
    ready
    Me:
    yepi
    tsknockof
    fti
    me
    Boss:
    mmmmh….
    MrSmi
    thi
    shappywi
    thy
    ouI
    wonderwhaty
    ouf edhim causehe’
    snev
    er
    happywi
    thanyt
    hingthatone
    Me:
    Ijustknowhowt
    odomyj
    obsi
    r
    Boss:mmhsother
    e’sawor
    kfunct
    ionon
    Satur
    daysoIwast
    hinki
    ngt
    hatwegotoget
    her
    Me:
    im sor
    rysi
    rbutIcantmakei
    t
    **
    *hefr
    ownedandcl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    …mxm
    st
    upi
    dfool
    ***
    Boss:Idi
    dsayi
    t’
    saworkfunct
    ionandwe
    mightgetmor
    ecli
    ent
    ele
    Me:andmyfamil
    ycomesf
    ir
    st.
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    eSusan
    she’
    sal
    sogood
    *
    **andeasi
    l
    yf#ck#bl
    e**
    *
    Boss:
    don’
    ttel
    lmeaboutSusanIwantt
    ogo
    wit
    hyou
    **
    *oohnowIsee…shehasalr
    eadyfal
    l
    env
    ict
    im
    orshet
    hreat
    enedtor
    eporthi
    m***
    Me:
    wel
    lIcantmakei
    t…sor
    ry
    **
    *Iwalkedpassedhi
    m andhegr
    abbedmy
    ar
    m* *
    *
    Boss:
    arey
    oudef
    yingmeMi
    ssRapul
    a
    Me:yesandnev
    ert
    ouchmel
    i
    ket
    hisev
    er
    agai
    n…si
    r
    **
    *Isai
    dlooki
    ngst rai
    ghti
    ntohi
    sey
    esandhel
    et
    goofmyar m chuckli
    ng**
    *
    Boss:
    Iseey
    oudon’
    twantt
    ocont
    inuet
    owor
    k
    her
    emmh
    *
    **Ismi
    l
    edamused…t
    hisf
    ool
    nxa*
    **
    Me: ev
    enifyoumakemel oosethisj
    objust
    knowI’l
    lfi
    ndanot heroneMrMsi bi….t
    his
    companyisnott hetopbestinthecount ryi
    ts
    j
    ustoneoft hebestandwi thmyr eputat
    ionim
    sureIwon’tjobhuntforlong
    **
    * t
    henIwalkedoutandhel
    dthedoor…he
    cl
    ickedhi
    stonguefumingandhewalkedout
    thenIl
    ockedthedoorandwalkedaway…t
    his
    foolwi
    l
    lbeshockedwhenhel ear
    nwhoIam
    andwhereIcomef r
    om Iswearhe’
    ll
    fai
    nt**
    *

    -
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    -

    NARRATED

    ***Moeragotoutoft hecarandtookAJoutof
    thecaralongwi t
    hhisbagsandshecl osedthe
    doorandl ockedthecar….shet
    henwal ked
    i
    nsidethey ardandstrai
    ghttothedoor….she
    knockedandaf terafewsecondsthedoor
    openedandMpandesmi l
    edather***
    Mpande:
    hey
    Moer
    a:hi
    Mpande:
    comeoni
    n
    *
    **het
    ookAJf
    rom her
    ***
    Mpande:champlamachamp…y esShangaan
    boy
    ….mfanamalome….di
    ntshang(whatsup)
    Aj
    :adi
    nchi
    (not
    hing)
    Mpande:
    shomf
    anaka(y
    esmyboy
    )
    ***
    hesaidwalki
    ngfurt
    herinwit
    hthem wi
    th
    Moeralooki
    ngaroundthehouseimpr
    essedand
    shesatdowncomf or
    tabl
    y***
    Mpande:Al
    phawi l
    lbewit
    hy ounowusasebusy
    nent
    ozakhezo’khokhobakhe(he’
    ssti
    l
    lbusy
    wit
    hhisancest
    ralthi
    ngs)
    Moer
    a:ok
    ***
    Tshepowal kedinwi
    pinghishandsandwhen
    AJsawhi m hescreamedgetoutofMpande’s
    hol
    dandMpandeputhi m downandher anto
    Tshepowhol aughedandpickedhi
    m upwi t
    h
    Moerafrowning***
    Tshepo:
    youngone
    ***t
    heydi
    dt heirhandshakeand
    hugged…Tshepowal kedtoMoeraandhe
    greet
    edherr espect
    ful
    ly
    ….hecoul
    dtel
    lshe’
    s
    Masai’
    stwin* *
    *
    Tshepo:
    dumel
    ang
    Moer
    a:hel
    l
    o
    Tshepo:
    lekae(howar
    eyou)
    Moer
    a:ket
    engabut
    iwena(i
    m goodandy
    ou)
    Tshepo:
    im good
    Mpande:
    thi
    sisJuni
    orsaunt
    ,hi
    smot
    her
    ’st
    win
    Tshepo:
    yeahIcant
    ell
    theyki
    ndal
    ookal
    i
    ke
    *
    **hel
    ookedatAJ*
    **
    Tshepo:di
    gwai
    l
    emf
    anaka? (ar
    eyouhungr
    y
    myboy )
    ***
    AJnoddedandtheywal
    kedt
    otheki
    tchen
    chatt
    ingandMpandecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oatsi
    tti
    ng
    down* *
    *
    Mpande:Moer
    aneh…i
    m Mpande….
    idon’
    tknow
    i
    fyourememberme
    Moer
    a:mmmmh…sohowl
    ongwi
    l
    lAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    t
    ake
    Mpande:
    rel
    axuy
    aqedamanj
    e(he’
    l
    lbedone
    j
    ustnow)
    Moer
    a:ok
    Mpande:
    sodoy
    our
    ememberme
    *
    * *
    Moerasi
    ghedboredcausey
    esshedoesand
    r
    ightnowsheregr
    etssl
    eepi
    ngwit
    hhi
    m* *
    *
    Moer
    a:y
    eahweoncef
    #ck#d
    *
    **shesai
    drol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    **
    Mpande:
    yeahcr
    azysh!
    tneh
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Moer
    a:mmmmh
    Mpande:soIknowwedon’
    tknoweachother
    andyou’
    reMasai’
    stwi
    nsoi
    twill
    lookawkwar
    d
    i
    fsomet
    hingbet
    weenushappenbut
    …
    Moera:nothingbet
    weenuswi llhappensothe
    wontbeanyawkwar dness….
    imeany eswe
    onceslepttoget
    herwhichwasaonceof ft
    hing
    andami stakebutwewer edrunkanditwasl i
    ke
    twoyearsback
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oatandsmi
    l
    edsl
    i
    ght
    ly*
    **
    Mpande: Iknow…IknowbutImeanwe
    complementeachot hermmasandi m
    someonewho’ sstr
    aightforwar
    danddoesn’
    t
    beataroundthebush…IlikeyouandIwoul
    dli
    ke
    totr
    yloveandar el
    ationshi
    pwithyou
    ***hesaidgiv
    ingherapantydr
    oppersmi
    l
    ebut
    Moer aj
    ustrai
    sedaneyebrowwithafr
    ownon
    herface*
    **
    Moer
    a:i
    m noti
    nter
    est
    ed
    Mpande:
    what
    Moer
    a:noof
    fencebutj
    ustbecausemysi
    ster
    hasababywi t
    hAlphalet
    tedoesn’tmeanI ’l
    l
    datehi
    sfri
    endsorcousinsorwhat ever….f
    irstl
    y
    you’
    renotmyt y
    peabut i
    andsecondl yyoucan’ t
    aff
    ordmeandt hir
    dlycanwedr opthisbefor e
    youembarrassyoursel
    ffur
    thermor e…please
    ***
    Mpandeswall
    owedhardandchuckledl
    i
    ght
    ly
    tr
    yingtogr
    abhol
    dti
    ghtatwhati
    sleftofhi
    s
    ego***
    Mpande:
    sowhat
    ’sy
    ourt
    ype
    Moer
    a:noty
    ou…l
    i
    keIsaidpl
    easest
    opy
    ou’
    re
    maki
    ngmeuncomfor
    tabl
    enow
    ***
    shesai
    dlooki
    ngaroundget
    ti
    ngimpati
    ent
    nowandMpandeswal l
    owedhardagai
    nthenhe
    cl
    enchedhi
    sjaws**
    *
    Moer
    a:sot
    ell
    memor
    eaboutAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    *
    **Mpandedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Moer
    a:Mpande
    Mpande:
    what
    *
    **hesnappedandsher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Moera:Iaskedy
    out
    otel
    lmemor
    eabout
    Al
    phalett
    e
    Mpande:
    why
    *
    **hesnappedatheragai
    n**
    *
    Moera:causehehasachil
    dwit
    hmyt
    winsoI
    needtoknowmor eabouthi
    m
    *
    **shesai
    drol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:whydon’
    tyouaskmet
    hen
    ***
    shesmi l
    edshylybutAlphalet
    tedidn’
    tsmil
    e
    backthensheclearedherthroatandstopped
    smili
    ng**
    *

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    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED….
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER13

    Moer
    a:Mpande.
    ..
    Mpande:
    what
    *
    **hesnappedandsher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Moera:Iaskedy
    out
    otel
    lmemor
    eabout
    Al
    phalett
    e
    Mpande:
    why
    *
    **hesnappedatheragai
    n**
    *
    Moera:causehehasachil
    dwit
    hmyt
    winsoI
    needtoknowmor eabouthi
    m
    *
    **shesai
    drol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:whydon’
    tyouaskmet
    hen
    ***
    shesmi l
    edshylybutAlphalet
    tedidn’
    tsmil
    e
    backthensheclearedherthroatandstopped
    smili
    ng**
    *
    Moer
    a:y
    ouhav
    eabeaut
    if
    ulhouseher
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngar
    ound*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    sho….
    wher
    e’smyson
    Mpande:
    wit
    hTshepo
    ***hesaidstandi
    ngupandwal ki
    ngaway ….he
    want edtocrushherli
    tt
    leatt
    itudecausehecan
    ber udeandmeani fhewant sto…togiv
    eher
    thatmeant axidr
    iverat
    tit
    udeorclapbackbut
    hest i
    lll
    i
    kesherandshe’ sst
    il
    l Masai
    ’ssi
    sterso
    walkingawayi st
    hebestoption…Alphal
    ette
    l
    ookedathi m ashewal kedawayandhe
    sighed***
    Moera:soar
    en’tyougonnashowmearound….
    i
    wanttoexpl
    orethisbeaut
    if
    ulhouse
    Al
    pha:
    youmay
    bebeMasai
    ’
    stwi
    nbuty
    ou’
    re
    not
    hingt
    omesowhywoul
    dIshowy
    ouar
    ound
    myhouse
    ***hesaidlooki
    ngatherwithhi
    shandsi nhi
    s
    pocketandaf rownonhisface.
    ..hewaspissed
    offthatsheembarrassedMpandel i
    kethat
    withoutevenconsi
    deringhi
    sfeeli
    ngs**
    *
    Moer
    a:bat
    hongAl
    Al
    pha:
    itsAl
    phal
    ett
    etoy
    ou
    ***
    hesaidwit
    haserioust
    oneandt hesmil
    eon
    herfacef
    adedthenshegotupcleari
    ngher
    thr
    oatembarr
    assedandshepickedherhand
    bag***
    Moer
    a:Ishoul
    dgo
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    wal
    kyouout
    ***
    sheswallowedandf akedasmilethenshe
    walkedtowardsthedoorinhersti
    l
    ettoslooki
    ng
    goodinherwor ksui
    t….
    theywalkedtowardsher
    caroutsi
    dethegateandhest oodtherel
    ooking
    atherassheopenedt hedr
    iversidedoorand
    bendoverwi t
    hherti
    ghtassalloutthereand
    putherhandbagt ot
    hepassangersi deandshe
    stoodstr
    aight**
    *
    Moer
    a:I
    ’
    llseey
    ouar
    ound
    Al
    pha:whaty
    ousai
    dtoMpandewasr
    udeand
    mean
    Moer
    a:aski
    es
    *
    **shesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    Alpha:bei
    ngniceandconsi
    der
    atesomet
    imes
    wontkilly
    ouespecial
    l
    ytosomeonewholi
    kes
    youlikehedoes
    Moer
    a:y
    ouwer
    eeav
    esdr
    oppi
    ng
    Al
    pha:youcoul
    d’
    vej
    ustl
    ethi
    m downeasynot
    whaty
    oudid
    Moer a:Idon’
    thavethatpat
    ience….whenyou
    startl
    iki
    ngsomeoneAl phalookaty our
    sel
    fand
    atthatpersonthenaskyourselfi
    fyou’r
    eboth
    onthesamel ev
    elandifyesthenmakey our
    movenotwhathedi d….l
    ookatmet henathim,
    doyouthinkIwouldwanttobeseeni npubl
    ic
    wit
    hhim especi
    all
    ytothekindofspotsIhand
    outat
    ….ij
    ustsavedhimt heembarr
    assment
    *
    **Al
    phashookhi
    sheadmor
    epi
    ssed*
    **
    Alpha:thenyoushouldalsostopcrushi
    ngover
    mecausey ou’
    renotmyt ypeorinthesame
    l
    ev el
    asmeandy ou’
    renotthekindofwomanI’
    ll
    taketomymot herorevenintr
    oducetomy
    ancestors…inf
    acttheywoul ddi
    sownmei fI
    everint
    roducey outothem orstar
    tli
    ki
    ngyou
    l
    ikethat..
    ..
    *
    **shelookedathi
    m shockedbl
    i
    nki
    ng
    r
    apidl
    y***
    Alpha:y
    ou’r
    enotmyt y
    peandnev erwil
    lbe
    becauseofthatmeanandr udeatti
    tudeyou
    havegoingon….concentr
    ateongetti
    ngfucked
    bymar r
    iedmanandst opcrushi
    ngonMasai ’s
    manandasf orMpandehe’
    llgetovery
    ou,
    I
    meanther
    e’snothi
    ngspeci
    alaboutyou
    any
    ways
    ***thenhewal kedawayl eav
    ingherf r
    ozen
    wher eshe’sstanding….shefinal l
    ymov edand
    goti nsidet
    hecarandcl osedt hedoorandsat
    theref orawhil
    est i
    llshockedbywhathe
    said…. nooneandImeanonehasev erspoken
    toherl iket
    hat….andsheaskedher sel
    fhowhe
    knewshel i
    keshimt hensher emember edthat
    he’sasangomaandshesi ghedandswal lowed
    hard, shestar
    tedthecaranddr oveaway
    gettingangryashi swor dsplay edinherhead***

    I
    NSI
    DETHEHOUSE

    Al
    pha:
    yougood?
    ??
    *
    **Mpandecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Mpande:
    yeahI
    ’
    llbef
    ine
    Al
    pha:
    youst
    il
    ll
    ikeher
    ??
    *
    **heaskedbrushi
    nghi
    seyebrowandsatnext
    t
    ohim onthebenchint
    hebackyar
    d**
    *
    Mpande: y
    ep...
    .idon’
    tknowwhybut,Iknowwe
    canbeapowercoupl emeandher..
    ..
    her
    fei
    sti
    ness,toneddownabi tl
    ooksgoodonher
    Al
    pha:
    youcal
    lthatbei
    ngf
    eist
    ybr
    o
    Mpande:
    youwon’
    tunder
    standman
    Alpha:sheembarr
    assedy
    ouandwasr
    ude
    dude..
    ..
    shebel
    it
    tl
    edyou
    Mpande:
    Iknowhowt
    owi
    nherov
    erman
    ***
    Alphajustshookhi shead.
    ..
    hewi shedhef el
    t
    badforhowhespoket oMoerabutwi t
    hthe
    wayhespoket oMpandeandbel it
    tl
    edhi m she
    deserv
    edit,maybet hatwil
    lbr
    ingherdownt o
    eart
    handshe’ dstopt hi
    nki
    ngthatshe’sthebest
    thi
    ngcreatedaft
    erbr ead“hethought”***
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    ATDORI
    S’SHOUSE

    Dori
    s:andnowwhat ’
    swr ongwithy
    ou.
    ..
    keng
    ekar
    eobethi
    lekedipatj
    et saFel
    o(whydoyou
    l
    ookhighwit
    hFelo’
    sweed)
    **
    *Hi
    ll
    sraisedaneyebr
    owl
    ooki
    ngatDor
    isand
    AusVeejustl
    aughed**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    what
    Hi
    ll
    s:whatdoy
    ouknowaboutdi
    pat
    jet
    saFel
    o
    mama(aboutFel
    o’sweedmama)
    Dori
    s:akat sofalannaHill
    s..
    ..
    oskansheba
    wanyat
    sa...
    .thisoldbonesdibleksemawoman
    ontopsterek...
    .kell
    i
    sapoonnaskat .
    ..
    .pooe
    mpotsaphini yakaratayabanka(i m notold
    Hil
    l
    s..
    ..
    .don’tlookatmeandbel itt
    leme. .
    ..
    thi
    s
    ol
    dbonesar
    eapr owi
    thwomanontop.
    ..
    .imake
    amancryl
    ove.
    ..
    .amanwil
    lvol
    unt
    ari
    l
    ytel
    lme
    hi
    scar
    dpin)
    *
    **Vel
    emi
    nai
    slaughi
    ngherassof
    f**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    for
    getIasked
    AusVee: youshoul
    dn’
    thaveaskedinthef
    irst
    place..
    ..
    anywayHunadimyskatdon’twor
    ryka
    oo...
    .kemot shwer
    ekagearone(I’
    mt aki
    ng
    careofher )
    Dor
    is:
    im notev
    engonnaask.
    ..
    letmef
    reshen
    upandI’
    l
    lbeback
    *
    **shewal
    kedawayandHi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Iwonderhowpapahandl
    edher
    AusVee:
    lov
    elal
    a..
    ..
    andnotj
    ustanyl
    ove,
    true
    l
    oveandaccept
    ance
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    IthoughtIhadi
    twi
    thTar
    ek
    AusVee:
    wecansayy
    oudi
    dandmay
    behej
    ust
    di
    dn’twi
    thy
    ou
    *
    **Tear
    sfi
    l
    ledherey
    es*
    **
    Hil
    l
    s:maybeim bei
    ngpuni
    shedf
    ort
    hatt
    hree
    sum ausVee
    AusVee:heysabatlombora..
    ...
    didn’
    thecheat
    kathatski
    nnyb#tchbar ekemangt hatPAy a
    gae.
    ..
    .sodon’
    tdot hat(heydon’tbore
    me...
    .di
    dn’
    thecheatwi t
    hthatskinnyb!tch
    what’
    shernamet hatPAofhi s.
    ..
    .sodon’ tdo
    that
    )
    *
    **shewi
    pedhert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    may
    bei
    tjustwasn’
    tmeantt
    obe

    -
    --
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    --
    -

    LATERATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    Masai
    :hey
    ***shesaidwalkinginsidet hekitcheninher
    sweat pantsandahood, shel ef
    therov erni
    ght
    bagi ntheloungeaftergr eeti
    ngTshepoand
    kissi
    ngAJ. ..
    .Al
    phasmi rkedather .
    ..
    .hedidn’t
    understandwhyhewasf eelingwhathe’ s
    feeli
    ngf orhert
    hisstrongl y,
    may beitsher
    humbl enature“hethough” ..
    ..
    orhersmi leand
    thetwi t
    chinhereyeswhenshesmi les,heloves
    her***
    Al
    pha:
    hey
    Masai
    :thoset
    woar ei
    nsepar
    ableandt
    heyj
    ust
    knowneachotherl
    i
    kerecent
    ly
    Alpha:t
    hepowerofnatur
    all
    oveandext
    reme
    connecti
    on.
    ..
    .sonoki
    ssnonothi
    ngforme?
    Masai
    :ki
    ss?
    ?
    Al
    pha:
    yeahl
    i
    ket
    his
    **
    *hegrabbedherwaistandgavehera
    br
    eat
    htaki
    ngkissthatl
    eftherbr
    eat
    hless*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    thi
    ski
    ss
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngi
    ntoherey
    es*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    stopfi
    ghti
    ngit.
    ..
    .t
    here’
    snomut
    iinv
    olv
    ed,
    nol
    ovepoti
    onjustl
    ove..
    ..
    tr
    uelov
    e
    *
    **shelookedawaywi
    thherhear
    tbeat
    ing
    f
    ast**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whatdoy
    ousay
    ?
    Masai
    :i
    ..
    ..
    ummm
    ***
    shebreathedoutandtr
    iedt
    omov
    efr
    om hi
    m
    buthet
    ightenedthegri
    p**
    *
    Masai
    :thet
    rut
    hisi
    m scar
    edandIdon’
    tknow
    why
    Alpha:
    Iknowwhy
    ..
    ..
    .ihur
    tyouMasai
    andi
    tsok
    tohavedoubt
    s
    Masai
    :imti
    nycomparedtoy ouPhal
    ett
    e..
    ..
    itwi
    l
    l
    l
    ookli
    keim dat
    ingasugardaddy
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    thav
    eanot
    herexcusesot
    hat
    ’s
    whatshecameupwithandhelaughedwit
    hhis
    deepvoi
    ceanditwasanicet
    hingtosee.
    ..
    .she
    smil
    edlooki
    ngathi
    m embarr
    assed***
    Al
    pha:don’
    tyouknowyoual
    readyhav
    eachi
    l
    d
    wi
    ththesugardaddy
    ***
    shelaughedhi
    tt
    inghi
    mlight
    lyandhepull
    ed
    hercl
    oserandwrappedbot
    hhisarmsaround
    herbody**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    wegi
    vi
    ngusachancer
    ight
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandcl
    osedherey
    es*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tfi
    ghti
    t
    **
    *sheopenedherey
    esbit
    ingherbot
    tom li
    p
    wit
    hherhearthammeri
    ngagai
    nstherchest*
    **
    Masai
    :ok
    *
    **hesmi
    l
    edwi
    del
    y**
    *
    Alpha:andbygiv
    ingusachancei
    tmeanssex,
    ki
    ssing,cuddl
    i
    ngandallt
    heworksnotusj
    ust
    getti
    ngtoknoweachother
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    *
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ..
    .ij
    ustwannabesur
    e
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Masai
    :thewor
    ks
    ***
    hecaughtonandsmashedhisl
    i
    psonher
    s
    andtheyki
    ssedpassi
    onat
    ely
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ***Theyarenowwatchi
    ngTVaftereat
    ingand
    Tshepowenttobat
    hAJ...
    .Al
    phal
    ettecl
    earedhi
    s
    throat
    ***
    Alpha:Ihadanotsoni
    ceconv
    ersat
    ionwi
    th
    yourtwin
    *
    **shegotof
    fhi
    schestandl
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Alpha:
    youknowMpandel
    ikesherr
    ightsohe
    tol
    dherandshewasmeanandwhenIsay
    meanImeandegr
    adi
    ngmean
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandsatst
    rai
    ghtl
    ooki
    ngdown*
    **
    Alpha:soIbr
    uisedherego..
    .abi
    t.
    ..
    .i
    mtel
    l
    ing
    youthi
    ssoy ounotsurpr
    isedwhenshegives
    meat t
    itudef
    rom nowon
    Masai
    :how’
    sMpande
    ***
    shesai
    dplayi
    ngwi
    thherf
    inger
    sandAl
    pha
    hel
    dherhands*
    **
    Alpha:
    he’
    ll
    befineandherbei
    ngmeanl
    i
    ket
    hat
    hasgotnot
    hingtodowithyou
    Masai:she’
    smyt winAl
    phaandherbad
    behav
    iorref
    lectbadonme
    Al
    pha:
    say
    swho
    Masai
    :Iknewsomet
    hingli
    kethiswil
    lhappen
    whenhetoldmehel
    ikesher.
    ..
    .she’
    sli
    kethat
    Alpha:enoughabouther.
    ..
    .Mpandeistheone
    thatl
    ikesherandwear enotgett
    inginvol
    ved.
    ..
    .i
    saidwhatIsaidtohertoshowhert hatshe
    needstotoneitdownabi
    tandt
    hat
    ’si
    t.
    ..
    .wenot
    gett
    ingi
    nvolv
    ed
    *
    **hesai
    dpul
    l
    inghercl
    oser
    ***
    Alpha:
    any
    wayAJi
    ssl
    eepi
    ngwi
    thhi
    sbr
    other
    toni
    ght
    Masai
    :no
    Al
    pha:
    Aji
    ssl
    eepi
    ngwi
    thTsheponi
    ght
    ***
    hesaidwithacommandt oneandshe
    bli
    nkedfastf
    orabitsur
    pri
    sedbythetonet
    hen
    shelookedaway*
    **
    Alpha:r
    ightnowwegonnabat hinmuthit
    o
    cl
    eanseour sel
    vesandim gonnaer
    asethebad
    experi
    encey ouhadwit
    hme
    ***
    hesaidpull
    ingherhandandheputi tonhi
    s
    bulgeandherheartnear
    lystoppedwhenshe
    rememberedhowhugehei s***
    Masai
    :cl
    e..
    ..
    cleanse?
    ?
    *
    **TshepoandAJwal
    kedbacki
    nthel
    ounge
    andMasaiqui
    ckl
    ypul
    l
    edherhandf
    rom Al
    pha’
    s
    har
    don***
    Tshepo:
    hai
    wenawar
    opa(hai
    you’
    recheat
    ing)
    AJ:
    kwenaol
    opangaa(y
    out
    heonecheat
    ing)
    Al
    pha:abutioropakangfano(whati
    syour
    br
    othercheati
    ngwithboy
    )
    *
    **hesai
    dtaki
    ngAJf
    rom Tshepo*
    **
    Tshepo:
    wewer
    epl
    ayi
    ngr
    ockpapersci
    ssor
    s
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingdownandMasai
    laughed*
    **
    Masai
    :thanky
    ouf
    orbat
    hinghi
    m abut
    i
    Tshepo:kemfanakasawaradi
    mamzo(he’
    s
    myy oungerbr
    osodon’twor
    rymot
    her
    )
    Masai
    :di
    mamzo?
    ??.
    ..
    .im nott
    hatol
    ddude
    *
    **Tshepol
    aughed*
    **
    Tshepo:
    okmami
    *
    **shej
    ustshookherheadandshel
    aughed*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    ATMASAIANDMOERA’
    SPLACE

    Sel
    i
    na:
    hesai
    dthat
    ..
    ..
    ouch
    ***
    Moeratookal
    argegul
    pfr
    om herdr
    inkand
    nodded*
    **
    Moer
    a:hewassomeangi
    rl
    ..
    ..
    isweari
    tsl
    i
    keI
    smel
    l
    edli
    keshi
    ttohi
    m
    Sel
    ina:
    butnawegi
    rl
    ,he’
    syourt
    win’
    sbaby
    daddy
    *
    **Moer
    arol
    l
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Moer
    a:Iknowt
    hatok
    Sel
    i
    na:
    thenwhyar
    eyoucr
    ushi
    ng
    Moer
    a:noi
    m not
    Seli
    na:thenwhyar
    ey ouupsetanddri
    nki
    ng
    yoursel
    ftoacoma..
    .mxm pleaseb!
    tch
    Moer
    a:l
    etsj
    ustdr
    opi
    tok
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nat
    ookasi
    pfr
    om hergl
    ass*
    **
    Sel
    ina:whatyoudoi
    ngiswant i
    ngtol
    oseyour
    twi
    n..
    ..
    youneverhaveacrushonyoursi
    ster
    ’s
    babydaddyorboyfr
    iendorevenanex
    dude..
    ..
    youdon’
    tdothat.
    ..
    .i
    mjustsay
    ing
    Moer
    a:Isai
    dlet
    sdr
    opi
    t
    Sel
    i
    na:
    wedr
    oppi
    ngi
    t
    Moer
    a:good.
    ..
    sowhathappenedwi
    thuguy
    Sel
    i
    na:
    mxm oho
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    tol
    i
    ligi
    rl
    *
    **Moer
    alaughedoutl
    oud*
    **
    Seli
    na:If
    akedeverythi
    ngMo, f
    rom fakingto
    enjoybei
    ngmuf f
    edbyhi mtopretendingtofeel
    hi
    m orevenenjoyi
    nghi mtofaki
    ngan
    orgasm..
    ..
    hewast heworstever
    *
    **Moer
    aisst
    il
    ll
    aughi
    ng*
    **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    guesswhathesai
    daf
    ter
    war
    ds
    Moer
    a:mmh
    Seli
    na:ket
    laobol
    ayanonozaandi
    mli
    kewhat
    thef#ck
    *
    **l
    aught
    er*
    **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    hai
    moneyneh

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(TAREK)

    Duma:
    wil
    lyoust
    op
    Tar
    :whati
    fshewasn’
    tjoki
    ng
    Duma:
    youj
    ustgotoutofhospi
    tal
    duder
    elax
    Tar
    :howcanIr
    elaxwhenmywi
    fei
    sbusydoi
    ng
    Godknowwhat
    Duma:
    shedi
    dsayshewant
    sadi
    vor
    ce
    Tar:
    noonei sgett
    ingadi
    vor
    ceher
    e..
    ..
    she’
    sin
    herfeel
    sshe’l
    lbeback
    Duma:
    whydoIfeel
    li
    keyou’
    rei
    ndenialman.
    ..
    .i
    meanyouhav
    eSamkeandshe’
    spregnant
    Tar:don’
    ttel
    lmeaboutt hatone.
    ..
    .sheshould
    j
    ustgivebirt
    hshe’sstar
    tingtoannoyme...
    .andI
    knowmywi f
    e,she’
    sjusthurtandnowshe’s
    tr
    yingtohurtmebyl y
    ing
    **
    *Dumajustshookhi
    sheadasTar
    ektr
    ied
    Hil
    l
    snumberswithanewsimcar
    dagai
    nandit
    wasoff
    ***
    Tar:wher
    ethef
    ucki
    sshe.
    ..
    .whyi
    sherphone
    off
    ***Dumajustsi
    ghedandsatbackandwat
    ched
    hisfri
    endpaci
    ngupanddowni nhi
    sli
    vi
    ng
    room* *
    *
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(LORRAI
    NE)

    ***She’ssi t
    tingi nthelounger el
    axi
    ngcat ching
    uponherf av oriteseries,
    Jabul eftt
    omeet
    someoneandev enthoughshewasn’ tpl
    eased
    thathesaidhe’ l
    lbeback, fornowshe’ s
    enjoyi
    ngherownspaceandpr aysthatJabu
    retur
    nstot akehi sbagandl eavesforGaut eng
    butwhoi ssheki dding,wet al
    kingaboutJabu
    here.
    ..
    .She’sdi sturbedwhenherphoner ings
    andshesi ghswhensheseeswhoi tis**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:hey
    *
    **hekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:hel
    l
    o
    Kenny
    :di
    dyousl
    eepwi
    thhi
    m
    Lol
    l
    y:huh
    Kenny
    :di
    dyou,
    yesorno
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:i
    m notacheatKennysonoIdi
    dn’
    tandI
    cantbel
    ieveyouaskedmethat
    Kenny
    :youl
    yi
    ngt
    ome
    *
    **hewascol
    d**
    *
    Lol
    ly:KennyI’
    veknownJabuf orl
    ikeforeverand
    herespectsmei nthatmanner..
    ..
    idon’tknow
    whatbeefy ouhavewithhim butpleasedonot
    i
    nvolvemeKenny ,takeitupwithhim mant o
    mananddon’ tgetmei nvol
    ved
    Kenny:youl
    ethi
    m sl
    eepatyourpl
    aceandi
    m
    supposedtobeokwit
    hthat
    Lol
    ly
    :andI
    ’v
    esl eptathi
    spl
    acewhenev
    erIhad
    nowher
    etosleep
    Kenny
    :youknowwhat
    ..
    ..
    it
    sei
    thermeorhi
    m
    Lol
    l
    y:aski
    es?
    ?
    Kenny:im notaboutt
    ocompet
    ewi
    thhi
    m
    Lorr
    aine.
    ..
    .youchose
    Lol
    ly
    :wow..
    .soyou’
    ret
    hreat
    enedbyamar ri
    ed
    manKenneth.
    ..
    .amarr
    iedmanthathasbeen
    l
    ikeabr
    othertomeforyear
    sandy ear
    s
    Kenny:
    im nott
    hreat
    enedbythatpieceofsh!
    t
    andneveri
    nsul
    tmel i
    kethatagai
    n
    Lol
    l
    y:t
    henwhyar
    eyouact
    ingl
    i
    ket
    his
    Kenny:y
    ouknowwhat..
    .f
    uckthi
    ssh!tnxa.
    ..
    .t
    his
    i
    smyt urfandnoonei
    nsult
    smelikehedidand
    getawaywithi
    t
    ***thenhedr oppedt hecallandshesighed
    ...
    .shedoesn’ tunderst
    andwhyKennyi sacting
    l
    iket his..
    ..
    shejustdoesn’tunderst
    andit.
    ..
    .her
    phoner angagainandi t
    sJabu. .
    ..
    shebreathed
    outl oudandanswer ed***
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    Jabu:
    whatshoul
    dIbr
    ingf
    ordi
    nner
    *
    **shecl
    osedherey
    esdef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:
    babe?
    ??Lol
    l
    y??
    Loll
    y:Jabust
    opcall
    i
    ngmebabepl
    ease.
    ..
    .st
    op
    you’
    recompli
    cat
    ingmyl
    if
    e
    Jabu:don’
    twor
    ryI
    ’
    llbr
    ingy
    ourf
    avor
    it
    e..
    ..
    see
    youlat
    er
    **
    * t
    henhedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    last
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledher
    eyes**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEKHUMALO

    Snakes:
    you’
    rebei
    ngt
    oomuchhaw
    Jabu:
    toomuchy
    ani
    .
    ...
    wazi
    ni(whatdoy
    ou
    know)
    Snakes:i
    m happi
    l
    ymar
    ri
    edandst
    il
    ll
    ovemy
    beauti
    ful
    crazywi
    fe
    Jabu:
    mxm Idon’tknowwhatshe’ssti
    l
    ldoi
    ng
    wit
    hyounobubi(withyourugl
    yface)
    *
    **ev
    ery
    onel
    aughed*
    **
    Snakes:
    ngizokthukangomthakat
    hil
    owakho
    wesf#b#unyenent shebe(I
    ’
    lli
    nsul
    tyouwit
    h
    yourwhorewitch)
    Jabu:
    f#sek(
    pissof
    f)
    Snakes:
    nawe(
    yout
    oo)
    Jabu:
    mxm
    Jay
    :ar
    eyout
    wodone
    *
    **hesai
    dbor
    edbyt
    hei
    rsquabbl
    es*
    **
    Jabu:
    no.
    ..
    ..mar
    #taoSnakes
    Snakes:
    nawemas#ndakho
    Jabu:nxal
    ent
    jebey
    amas#pa(nxawi
    thy
    our
    sh!
    ttybear
    d)
    Snakes:yeahyabolaphofozaukhuluma
    i
    qini
    so..
    ..
    iyenzaamas#palentshebe(yeahyou
    seether
    ebr oyou’
    retell
    i
    ngthetruth.
    ..
    .mybear
    d
    i
    sdoingthet hi
    ngs)
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    l
    ingbr
    ushi
    ngi
    t**
    *
    Snakes:
    Ishoul
    dhooky
    ouupwi
    thmybar
    ber
    ***
    hesaidshowinghi
    m hi
    snicelycutbeardand
    Jabujustshookhi
    sheadandhesi ghedhe
    couldseeit
    sawasteofti
    mear gui
    ngwi t
    h
    hi
    m* **
    Jabu:
    sowhatdoy
    ouknowabouthi
    m
    *
    **heaskedl
    ooki
    ngatJase*
    **
    Jase:
    ahht heboringstuf
    f.
    ..
    .i
    ntogun
    smuggli
    ng...
    drugs,humantraf
    fi
    cki
    ng,
    fr
    aud.
    ..
    .uyaboranje
    Jabu:
    humant
    raf
    fi
    cki
    ng.
    ..
    .hehi
    dthatv
    erywel
    l
    Jay:he’
    sacowardthatone.
    ..
    .hehi
    desint
    he
    backli
    keab#tch.
    ..
    .Sam theCongol
    esebacki
    n
    PTAi
    stheonet
    hatdoest
    hedi
    rtwor
    k..
    .
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu: Sam thatCongolesef#cktheonethat
    thinkshe’sthe“i
    t”sh!tjustbecausewelethi
    m
    thinkthat.
    ..
    ..
    doesheev enknowSam can’ tbe
    trusted,hecanbetrayyoujustli
    kethat
    Snakes:whathappenedt
    otal
    ki
    ngabout
    i
    ntshebeyam (mybeard)
    *
    **t
    heyal
    ll
    ookedathi
    m wi
    thf
    rowns*
    **
    Jabu:
    real
    l
    yKhumal
    o
    Snakes:ngi
    yabuza..
    .wewer
    et al
    ki
    ngaboutmy
    beardthenextthi
    ngaboSam bayangenai
    ntoy
    a
    hl
    angahlanganalapho(Sam ent
    ersandthi
    ngs
    getsmixedupthere)
    Jase:
    Mambawhooohman
    *
    **Snakesshookhi
    sheadandgotup*
    **
    Jabu:
    uyaphi
    (wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng)
    Snakes:
    wear
    enott
    alki
    ngaboutmycut
    ebear
    d
    mos
    *
    **hewal
    kedaway
    ***
    Jabu:
    real
    l
    ySnakes
    Jay:
    he’sbored.
    ..
    uyamborauKennycausehe’
    s
    anamateurandthere’
    snothi
    ngint
    erest
    ing
    ngaye
    Jabu:
    Snakesi
    swei
    rd
    *
    **hecamebackagai
    n**
    *
    Snakes:konj
    ewher
    edi
    dyousaymywi
    fewent
    wit
    hy oursJase
    Jay:cantyouj
    ustl
    etNt
    ombi
    breat
    hemf
    owet
    hu
    assombliefman
    Snakes:
    noi
    mtheai
    rshebr
    eat
    hes
    **
    *hetookouthi
    sphoneandcal
    ledherwal
    king
    awayandtheKhumal
    osshookthei
    rhead**
    *
    Jabu:
    what
    sgoi
    ngonwi
    thhi
    m
    Jase:hewasdi
    agnosedwi
    thhi
    ghbl
    ood
    pressur
    eandgoutandhe’
    sact
    ingl
    i
    keababy
    ..
    .
    Jabu:
    gout
    ??
    **
    *Jabuaskedwithasmil
    eonhi
    sfaceand
    Snakescamebacksul
    ki
    ng***
    Jay
    :don’
    tev
    ent
    hinkabouti
    tJabu
    Jabu:
    Idi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng
    *
    **Jaysi
    ghedshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Jay
    :whatnow
    *
    **heaskedSnakes*
    **
    Snakes:
    athit
    hreemor ehours.
    ..
    .weneedto
    l
    eaveNatalunt
    ombi uyazil
    aul
    ala(Nt ombii
    s
    doi
    ngasshepl easeshere)
    Jay
    :don’
    tletherheary
    ousayt
    hat
    Snakes:
    kungconoangi
    bulal
    engiyafavelemos
    (i
    tsbett
    ershekill
    smeim dyi
    ngmos) ..
    ..iswear
    Ntombidoesn’
    tloveme.
    ..
    .ngi
    yagula.
    ..
    .icould
    dropdeadanyminut
    eandy
    enashe’
    soutt
    her
    e
    enjoy
    ingher
    sel
    f
    Jase:
    Nhl
    akast
    oppl
    easeoknott
    oday
    Snakes:
    Ibl
    ameyou.
    ..
    .idon’
    tknowwhybutI
    bl
    amey ounxa
    *
    **hewal
    kedawayagai
    n**
    *
    Jay
    :yourBPi
    snotev
    enhi
    ghy
    etNhl
    aka
    Snakes:
    ngi
    yaf
    a(i
    m dy
    ing)andy
    ousayt
    hatJay
    ***hesaidcomi ngbackandallt
    hiswhileJabu
    i
    sl ooki
    ngatt hem wit
    hafrownonhi sface
    shockedt hattheyar
    eactual
    lyenter
    tai
    ninghis
    crazybehav i
    or***
    Jay
    :what
    ’ski
    l
    li
    ngy
    ou
    Snakes:Ihavehighbloodpressur
    eand
    ungenzangithukuthel
    engaphamyf eet
    hurt
    ..
    ..
    ngiyot
    shelauNt ombi
    (andy ouar
    e
    makingmeangr yontopofthatmyfeet
    hurt
    ..
    .i
    m goingtotellNtombi)
    *
    **hewal
    kedawayagai
    n**
    *
    Jay
    :sor
    ryaboutt
    hatman.
    ..
    .ai
    uNhl
    aka
    Jabu:
    itsj
    ustBPandGout
    Jase:don’
    tlethi
    m hearyousayt
    hatcauset
    o
    hi
    mt heyaredeadlyandneedatt
    ent
    ion
    ***
    Jabujustshookhi
    sheadandJase
    chuckl
    ed***
    Jase:t
    here’
    snoBPorGoutl ahe’
    sjustmadt hat
    Kennyisnotachal
    lenge,t
    hathe’
    sanamat eur
    andthatt
    here’
    sactual
    lynothi
    ngi
    nteresti
    ng
    abouthi
    m anditst
    rueyourenemyisbor i
    ng,he
    doesn’
    tevenknowhowt ohidehi
    ssh! t
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jay
    :any
    waywhatdoy
    ouwannadot
    ohi
    m
    Jabu:
    gethi
    m ar
    rest
    edf
    orhumant
    raf
    fi
    cki
    ng
    Jay:itwontholdyouknowthat
    ..
    .hemightbean
    amat eurbutheknowspeoplei
    nhighplaces
    aroundhere
    Jase:get
    ti
    nghim ar
    rest
    ed.
    ..
    .whaty
    ou’
    real
    aw
    abi
    dingcit
    izennowJabu
    *
    **Jabul
    aughed*
    **
    Jabu:IjustwantLor
    rai
    net odoubthimthat
    ’sal
    l
    causeIknowshewi ll
    ..
    ..
    ithi
    tsclosetohomefor
    her.
    ..
    ..
    idon’twannagoonhar d..
    ..
    iknowLol
    ly
    andthis..
    ..
    thi
    swil
    lbr
    eakt hem up
    *
    **t
    het
    winsl
    aughed*
    **
    Jase:
    slymov
    e
    *
    **Jabuj
    ustchuckl
    ed*
    **

    -
    --
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    --

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER14
    .
    .
    .

    NARRATED

    ***Alphalettebat
    hedfir
    standnowaner vous
    Masai i
    st aki
    ngherbathtoo..
    ..
    Alphaisalso
    nervousbuthewontshowher .
    ..
    hehopesf rom
    tonightonwar dshe’l
    latl
    easterasethebad
    exper i
    encesext heyhadyearsbackandcr eat
    e
    newmemor i
    esandanewamazi ngexperience
    forher .
    ..
    .shecomesoutwi thatowel wrapped
    aroundherbodyandi mmedi at
    elyheget san
    er#ction..
    ..**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    “f#ckshe’
    sgor
    geous”
    ***hethoughtandhegotupandwentt oher
    andsheshy l
    ylookedathischesti nsteadofhis
    facesincehistallandhelif
    tedherchi nupand
    kissedherslowlyandpassi onat
    elypul l
    ingher
    closerandshef el
    thishardmachi nepocking
    her..
    .shepull
    edawayf rom thekissf eel
    inghot
    andshecl earedherthroatandtriedt omov e
    awayf rom hi
    m butshef ai
    led***
    Al
    pha:
    whati
    sit
    Masai
    :nothi
    ngummm pheew.
    ..
    imj
    ustner
    vous
    t
    hat’
    sall
    Alpha:
    thenl etmet aket helead.
    ..
    .j
    ustl
    etgoand
    tr
    ustme...
    .letmewor shipthisbody
    mamas. .
    ..
    letmeer aset hebadexper i
    enceyou
    hadwithmey ear
    sago
    ***
    hesaidwit
    hasexyv oi
    ceandshefel
    twet
    downtherei
    nstant
    ly.
    ..
    shest
    oodonhertoes
    andki
    ssedhisli
    psandheimmediat
    elytook
    botht heirtoweloffandhegr abbedhera$$and
    pickedherupandshewr appedherl
    egsar ound
    him andhewal kedtowar dsthebedwithheras
    theyki ssedandheputheront hecomf ybed
    andgotbet weenherl egscaressi
    ngher
    body .
    ..theyconti
    nuedt okisswithhi
    mt ouching
    andsqueezi ngwherehecanonherbody .
    ..
    his
    j
    oy sti
    ckl eakedpr#cum andhewant edt obe
    i
    nsi deheri mmediately#remov ed

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED(MOERA)

    ***
    She’
    sbusycall
    i
    ngMasai
    andshe’
    snot
    answer
    inghercal
    l
    s**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:
    andnou
    Moer
    a:she’
    snotanswer
    ingherphone
    Sel
    i
    na:
    who
    Moera:Masai
    ..
    .mxm ev ersinceshestart
    ed
    spendi
    ngti
    mewi t
    hAl phaletteshe’si
    gnori
    ngme
    andmyphonecalls.
    ..l
    er enaretlojol
    a(wewi l
    l
    al
    sodate)
    ..
    .wewillf
    indourownv er
    y-v
    erytoo
    mxm
    Sel
    i
    na:
    wow
    **
    *shesaidsit
    ti
    ngdownandgr
    abbi
    nghergl
    ass
    ofwineandtakingasi
    p**
    *
    Moer
    a:what
    Sel
    ina:Inev
    erthoughtI
    ’
    llseey
    oul
    i
    ke
    thi
    s..
    ..
    moreespecial
    l
    yoveramanMoer
    a
    Moer
    a:whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    Seli
    na:j
    eal
    ousl
    yiswrit
    tenallov
    eryou
    fr
    iend.
    ..
    Masaii
    sprobablybei
    ngf#ck!
    dbyher
    babydaddynowthat’
    swhyshecantanswerher
    phoneandyou’
    redist
    urbingher
    Moer
    a:Masai
    woul
    dnev
    erdot
    hat
    Sel
    i
    na:
    andwhynot
    Moera:Iknowmysi
    sterok.
    ..
    .she’
    sprobabl
    y
    gonnagivehi
    mtheni
    netydayr ul
    eorsomethi
    ng
    *
    **shesai
    ddi
    smi
    ssi
    vel
    yandSel
    i
    nal
    aughed*
    **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    oki
    fyousayso
    Moer
    a:Iknowso..
    .shewoul
    dn’
    tdot
    hat
    ..
    .she’
    s
    t
    ooshythatone
    ***
    Sel i
    nashr uggedhershoul der
    s...
    .shecouldn’
    t
    beli
    ev ewhatshewaswi tnessing..
    ..t
    heperfect
    Moer aRapul af all
    i
    ngf orhert winsister
    ’sbaby
    daddyandact ingi toutlikethis,notevenhiding
    i
    t..
    .sheneedst obr ingherdownt oear t
    hface
    downwi t
    ht hisr evelat
    ionandsheknowsa
    perfectpersont odot hatforher...
    .she’
    sbeen
    missgoodyt ooshoesf orfartoolongt hi
    sone”
    shet hought* **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    cheer
    stol
    i
    fechomzaza
    *
    **Moer
    achuckl
    edandt
    heycl
    i
    ckedt
    hei
    r
    gl
    assesandSel
    i
    nal
    ookedathersmi
    l
    ing*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    #r
    emov
    ed

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATWORK(MASAI
    )

    ***Im busyr eplyi


    ngt omywor kemailstry
    ingt
    o
    i
    gnoremyachi ngvjay-j
    ayandal sothinki
    ng
    aboutMoer a, ourconv ersat
    ionandhowshe
    droppedt hecal l
    afteri t
    oldherIsleptwith
    Alphal
    ette..
    ..myof ficedooropenandi ncame
    myt wi
    nandshe’
    skeepi
    ngast
    rai
    ghtf
    ace.
    ..
    ok
    ent
    lekwhat
    ’sgoi
    ngon**
    *
    Me:
    heyy
    ouok
    *
    **Isai
    dasIcl
    osedmyl
    apt
    op*
    **
    Moer
    a:Ican’
    tbel
    i
    eve.
    ..
    .ican’
    tbel
    i
    evey
    ousl
    ept
    wi
    thhi
    m
    *
    **It
    ookadeepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Me:wei
    narelati
    onshi
    pMoeraandIl
    ovehim
    sowhat
    ’swi
    ththi
    satti
    tudet
    hingy
    ouhave
    goi
    ngon
    *
    **shechuckl
    edput
    ti
    ngherbagont
    opofmy
    t
    able*
    **
    Moer
    a:whyy
    oummmmh
    Me:
    aski
    es
    Moer
    a:whydoy
    oual
    way
    s..
    .
    ***
    shetookadeepbr
    eathandpickedherbag
    andshewalkedt
    owardsthedoor*
    **
    Me:
    Moer
    a!!
    !
    **
    *Icall
    edaft
    erherandshejusti
    gnor
    edmeand
    walkedout
    ..
    ..
    whatthehel
    ldoesshemeanby
    “
    whyme”* **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    THREEDAYSLATER

    (
    TSHI
    MOLOGO)

    ***Thelastfewday shav ebeenhect ic,Ntsako


    cannowwal kev ent houghheget stir
    edf astbut
    hislegscanwor kfine..
    ..
    It
    ’sabitawkwar dnow
    thathecandot hingsf orhimselfcauseIwas
    usedt ohel
    pinghim outbutatl eastIdon’thave
    tobathhim.He’sbeenhav ingfl
    ashbacksabout
    hispastbuthesai dhecantputev ery
    t hi
    ng
    togethertogetani deaofwhohei sbutmy
    guidest ol
    dmehe’ l
    l r
    ememberwhohei swhen
    thetimei sright..
    ..Yahnehl if
    e. .
    ..
    whowoul d
    havet hought .
    ..
    .imeani mlit
    erallyli
    vingwi tha
    manandIknownot hingabouthi m andf unny
    enoughIt rusthi m, Iknowi m playingwi thfir
    e
    butIcanthel pit.
    ..
    .I
    m sur emyl atebr otherand
    l
    atemot herar eangr ylooki
    ngatmel ivi
    ngwi tha
    manIknownot hingaboutImeanr i
    ghtnowI
    evenlefthimi nmyhouse, themai n
    house. .
    ..
    Whati foneoft heseday sIfindmy
    houseempt ywithal lmyfurnituregoneal ong
    withhim. .
    ..
    y ahnehIdi dn’
    tknowi m suchar i
    sk
    takerbut .
    ..
    .butItrustGodandmyAncest or
    s***
    Voi
    ce:
    youhav
    est
    art
    edwi
    thy
    ourzoni
    ngout
    moments
    *
    **mxm t
    hisgi
    rl
    ***
    Me:Iwasn’
    tzoni
    ngoutSihl
    e..
    .iwas
    t
    hinki
    ng.
    ..
    twodif
    fer
    entt
    hings
    ***
    she’
    ssit
    ti
    ngdownnextt
    ome.
    ..
    .y
    hocantshe
    seeIj
    ustwannabeal
    one**
    *
    Si
    hle:
    mmhsowhatar
    eyout
    hinki
    ngabout
    *
    **shel
    ovesnewst
    hisone.
    ..
    .agossi
    pIt
    ell
    y
    ou***
    Me:
    not
    hingmuch.
    ..
    justl
    i
    fei
    ngener
    al
    ***she’
    sroll
    inghereyesmxm b#tch..
    ..
    shesoo
    want stoknowaboutmyl if
    eandthatwi l
    lnev
    er
    happenshem. ..
    .idon’
    twannabeat opi
    c
    everyonetal
    ksaboutwhent heyar
    ebor edin
    thi
    shospital**
    *
    Si
    hle:
    any
    way
    ,di
    dyouseet
    henewdoct
    or.
    ..
    .y
    ho
    gi
    rl
    ***shesaysclappi
    ngherhands
    dramat i
    cal
    ly.
    ..
    .t
    hewayIwanttotr
    oll
    myey
    esat
    herrightnow***
    Me:
    mhIsawhi
    m
    Si
    hle:
    Iswearj
    ustl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m Ij
    ustgetan
    or
    gasm.
    ..
    .t
    hewayhe’
    shandsome
    *
    **Lor
    dhav
    emer
    cy*
    **
    Me:
    bat
    hongSi
    hle
    Si
    hle:
    imtel
    li
    ngy
    ou.
    ..
    .Zul
    uguy
    sar
    ehandsome
    bat
    hong.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Ij
    ustl
    aughed*
    **
    Si
    hle:
    mxm bonaoo
    *
    **Il
    ookedov
    erandi
    twasoneoft
    henur
    ses*
    **
    Sihle:youshould’
    veseenhersmil
    ingl
    ikea
    retardtothenewdoct orl
    eseshwaphanxa
    (wi thherfl
    ata$$)
    ***
    Ijustl
    aughed.
    ..
    yhobasadibanal
    edr
    ama
    shem (womanar eful
    lofdr
    amashame)**
    *

    NARRATED(TSHI
    MO)

    *
    **she’
    sbusyupl
    oadi
    ngpat
    ient
    sfi
    l
    esi
    nthe
    system whensheseesthenewdoct orwal
    k
    i
    nsidethePharmacywi t
    hanol dwhi
    te
    woman. .
    ..
    hehelpedhersitdownandhecame
    tothecounterandsmil
    edather *
    **
    Doc:
    ummm Tshi
    mol
    ogo
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngathernamet
    ag*
    **
    Doct
    or:
    hi
    Tshimo:hiDoc.
    ..
    whatareyoudoi
    nghere.
    ..
    .a
    nursecoul
    d’vebr
    oughtherher
    eyouknow
    **
    *shesai
    dsmil
    ingandhechuckl
    edshowi
    ng
    hi
    sperf
    ectwhi
    teteet
    h**
    *
    Doct
    or:Iwant
    edanexcuset
    ost
    ret
    chmy
    l
    egs.
    ..
    it
    sbeenabusyday
    **
    *theybot
    hlaughedl
    i
    ghtl
    yashegavehert
    he
    woman’sfi
    leandhecl
    ear
    edhist
    hroatl
    ooki
    ng
    ar
    oundthePharmacy*
    **
    Doct
    or:
    howl
    onghav
    eyoubeenwor
    kingher
    e
    Tshi
    mo:
    thr
    eey
    ear
    s
    *
    **shesai
    dasshegotbusyont
    hecomput
    er*
    **
    Doct
    or:
    bef
    oret
    hatwher
    edi
    dyouwor
    k
    Tshi
    mo:
    Chr
    isHani
    Bar
    agwanat
    hasanur
    se
    Doct
    or:
    wowandy
    ou’
    real
    soaPhar
    maci
    st
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    yeahIal
    sost
    udi
    edt
    obeaPhar
    maci
    st
    *
    **hesmi
    l
    edi
    mpr
    essed*
    **
    Doct
    or:
    wer
    en’
    tyouhappybei
    nganur
    se
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:l
    etsj
    ustsaynursi
    ngwasn’tmyf
    ir
    st
    l
    oveandnowim happywhereIam
    ***
    shedidn’twannadisclosethereal
    reason
    shedecidedtoleavenursing.
    ..
    shedoesn’tl
    i
    ke
    tal
    kingaboutit
    ***
    Doct
    or:mmmmhi nt
    erest
    ing.
    ..
    .so.
    ..
    .idon’
    tseea
    ri
    ngonyourf
    ingerdoesthatmeany ounot
    marr
    ied
    **
    *shesmil
    edasshegotuptogopickthe
    woman’smedi
    cat
    ionbythecount
    ers**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    yepi
    m not
    Doct
    or:
    why
    *
    **hesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:why?
    ??Bat
    hongDoc.
    ..
    .icantmar
    ry
    mysel
    fcani
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Doct
    or:
    wel
    lyoucan.
    ..awomani
    nIndi
    adi
    d
    *
    **t
    heybot
    hlaughed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    im nott
    hatdesper
    atef
    ormar
    ri
    agei
    m
    sorr
    y
    ***
    theylaughedagainthenshepackedwellt
    he
    woman’smedi cati
    oninasmallpaperbackand
    putinsi
    deherinvoi
    ceslip*
    **
    Tshi
    mo: shoul
    dIexpl
    ainherdosagest
    oheror
    youwil
    l
    Doct
    or:
    don’
    tworr
    yI’
    l
    lexpl
    ainever
    ythi
    ngt
    oher
    son,
    he’
    scomingt
    opickherup
    Tshi
    mo:
    okt
    henhav
    eal
    ovel
    ydayDoc
    Doct
    or:
    samet
    oyouTshi
    mol
    ogo.
    ..
    samet
    oyou
    ***hesmil
    edatheradmiri
    nglyt
    henhechuckled
    andwentbackt otheol
    dwomanandhehel ped
    herupthentheywalkedoutandsatout
    sideby
    thebenchesastheywait
    edforhersonto
    arr
    ive**
    *
    Ol
    dwoman:
    she’
    sbeaut
    if
    ul
    Doct
    or:
    who
    Oldwoman:
    theladyi
    nthePhar
    macy
    ..
    ..
    mar
    ry
    herandl
    i
    vehappil
    yev
    erandaft
    er
    *
    **t
    hedoct
    orchuckl
    edt
    henhesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Doct
    or:whosai
    dIwanthermam.
    ..
    .i
    mjust
    nat
    ural
    l
    yfri
    endl
    y
    Oldwoman:keepl
    yi
    ngt
    oyoursel
    fandthey
    ’l
    l
    snat
    chhert
    hosewhoseeherwort
    h..
    ..
    uhhmy
    soni
    sher
    e
    *
    **t
    hewhi
    tewoman’
    ssonr
    ushedt
    othem*
    **
    Guy:
    im sosor
    rydoct
    ori
    mlat
    e..
    .t
    raf
    fi
    cisa
    ni
    ghtmare
    Doct
    or:
    don’
    tworryabouti
    t.
    ..
    letmeexpl
    ainher
    medi
    cati
    ondosagestoyou
    ***hedi dandt hewomanhuggedt heDoctor
    andshel eftwithherson..
    ..Docsi ghedandhis
    mindwentt oTshi mol
    ogo...
    .hernicechubby
    face,smi leandheronedi mpl eonherr i
    ght
    cheekaddedt oherbeauty..
    .shewasshor t
    though. ..
    wel lnottooshortbutshewas
    shor t
    ...
    .hedi dcat chagli
    mpseofherbodywhen
    shewasbusyandshe’ swell str
    uctured.
    ..
    his
    beeperr angpul li
    nghim outofhi sthoughtsand
    het urnedi toffandchuckledshaki nghishead
    ashewentbacki nsi
    de***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    NARRATED(TSHI
    MO)

    ***Shedri
    vesthr
    oughthegat eandpar ksthe
    carandgetsoutthenshepr oceedstogocl ose
    thegateandshetakesherhandbagand
    l
    unchboxbagoutandcl osedandl ocksthecar
    thenshewalkstothebackoft hehouse...
    .she
    fi
    nds“Ntsako”si
    tt
    ingoutsidethebackbedr oom
    l
    ookingli
    kehe’si
    ndeept houghts..
    ..
    sheclears
    herthr
    oatandhequickl
    yl ookstowardsher **
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    heyy
    ouok
    *
    **hesi
    ghsandsi
    tspr
    oper
    ly*
    **
    Hi
    m:i
    tsknockof
    fti
    meal
    ready
    Tshi
    mo:
    yeah.
    ..
    arey
    ouok
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Hi
    m:Ican.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    m:Icanr
    ememberev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    Tshi
    mo:
    heh
    *
    **sheasksshockedwal
    ki
    ngcl
    osert
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Hi
    m:Ir
    ememberwhoIam
    ***
    sheputherhandbagandl
    unchboxbag
    down**
    *
    Him: mynamei sHosi GazankuluMabundaand
    everyonecal l
    smeGaza. ..
    .iwasbor nandbredin
    Mpumal angaBushbuckridge,Ihavethree
    sibl
    ingsandonei sdeceased. .
    .ihaveacousin
    ngwanar angwaneAlphalett
    eNt sakoMabunda
    whom i m closetoi
    nf actwebehav elike
    twins..
    .almostthesameageandwewoul ddi
    e
    foreachot her
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ntsako?
    ??
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    yeah.
    ..
    .ir
    emember
    edhi
    snamei
    nst
    eadof
    mi
    ne
    *
    **hechuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    wow
    **
    *hegotupandi t
    snowshereal
    izedthathis
    cr
    ushes,theonesshel
    endtohi
    mt hatherlat
    e
    motherusedweren’
    tnextt
    ohi
    m* **
    Tshi
    mo:
    wher
    ear
    eyourcr
    ushes
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngar
    ound*
    **
    Gaza:
    Idon’
    tneedt
    hem any
    mor
    e
    Tshi
    mo:
    noway
    s
    ***
    Shewassur pr
    isedandshockedatthesame
    ti
    me...
    hejustchuckledandwalkedcl
    osertoher
    l
    impingalit
    tl
    eandsheputherhandsonher
    mouthastonished..
    .hepul
    ledheri
    ntoahugand
    heheldhertightgetti
    ngemoti
    onalhi
    mself**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    ..

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER15
    .
    .
    .

    NARRATED

    *
    **Sheopenedt
    hewi
    ndowandspr
    ayedher
    per
    fumei
    nsi
    det
    her
    oom*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youok
    *
    **shenoddedf
    ixi
    ngherhai
    randmakeup*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ilov
    eyouMasai
    ***
    hesaidlooki
    ngatherandshestoppedwhat
    she’
    sdoingandshelookedathi
    m ashelooked
    atherl
    ovingl
    y..
    ..
    shebl
    ushedshy
    lyandshe
    l
    ookeddown* **
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    Alpha:enought
    ofightal
    ongsi
    demeagainst
    anythi
    ngandevery
    onewho’ sagai
    nstus?
    ?
    ***
    shesighedandnodded. .
    ..
    shehasnev
    erfelt
    l
    ikethi
    sbefore.
    ..
    .sheneverexpect
    edtofal
    lfora
    guysofastandhar d*
    **
    Masai
    :yeah
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Masai
    :Idon’
    tknowwhat
    ’shappeni
    ngt
    ome
    but
    ..
    ..
    *
    **shekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Alpha:Ihavealreadyfal
    l
    enforyoutooMasa
    andi m notashamedt oadmiti
    t.
    ..
    .iwanna
    protectyouwithallIhav
    eandlovey ouli
    key
    ou
    deserve
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedemot
    ional
    ***
    Masai:Ial
    sowannalov
    ey oul
    ikeyou
    deserv
    e...
    att
    hesametimeim af
    rai
    d
    Phalet
    te.
    ..
    .af
    rai
    dofy
    ourfamil
    y
    Al
    pha:
    afr
    aidofmyf
    ami
    l
    y??
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Masai
    :whentheyfindoutwearet
    oget
    her
    ,I
    meanithasn’
    tbeenlongsi
    nceIbr
    okeupwit
    h
    St
    eve
    ***
    heclenchedhisjaws.
    ..
    .hi
    sbrot
    heri
    rkshim
    andthefactthatshesai
    dhisnamesbringsa
    bi
    ttert
    asteinhismouth**
    *
    Masai
    :theygonnaj
    udgemePhal
    ett
    e
    Alpha:t
    hei
    rjudgment swon’tstopmef rom
    l
    ov i
    ngyou.
    ..
    .i
    twon’ tst
    opmef r
    om spoili
    ngyou
    andgivi
    ngyout hebestinli
    fe.
    ..
    .thei
    rjudgment
    s
    won’tst
    opmef r om wif
    ingyourass
    ***hesaidget t
    ingcl
    oset oherandhepul ledher
    closerandpeckedherl i
    ps.
    ..
    .shewr appedher
    armsar oundhi swaistandsher estedherhead
    onhi schestandhewr appedhisarmsar ound
    heri naprotecti
    vemanner .
    ..
    .she’sscared,
    scar edoftheunknown. .
    ..
    scaredthatshe’ s
    fall
    inghardforhim andhemi ghthurtherlikeal
    l
    herexes* *
    *
    Alpha:Ihavet
    ogoandseemy
    mot her
    ..
    ..
    somethi
    nghappenedi
    nthathouse
    andshel ef
    t
    *
    **sher
    aisedherhead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    shet
    hinksIdon’
    tknow
    *
    **hesi
    ghedl
    ett
    inghergo*
    **
    Masai
    :what
    Alpha:shelefthometogostayatahotelf
    ora
    coupleofdays..
    ..
    iknowshedoesthatt
    ocalm
    hersel
    fdownandIknowi tsbecauseofher
    husbandandsonnxa
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheadget
    ti
    ngupset
    ***
    Masai
    :thengoandcheckuponher
    ***
    thedoorhandlemovedandtheybothl
    ooked
    ati
    t..
    .shewentandunl
    ockedi
    t,shefel
    t
    embar r
    assedwhenshesawthatitwasher
    boss***
    Masai
    :bossl
    adyhi
    ***
    shel
    ookedbet weenAlphalet
    teandMasai
    wit
    hastr
    aightfaceandsher oughl
    yputt
    hefi
    le
    shewasholdi
    ngonMasai ’schestandMasai
    hel
    dontoitfeel
    ingdisr
    espected**
    *
    Yol
    anda:
    thenumber
    sdon’
    taddup.
    ..
    fi
    xthem
    *
    **shet
    hensmi
    l
    edatAl
    phal
    ett
    eandshe
    walkedfur
    theri
    nst
    ret
    chi
    ngherhandf
    ora
    handshake***
    Yol
    anda:Yol
    andaBanda.
    .idon’
    tthi
    nkwehav
    e
    metbefor
    e
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ejustl
    ookedatherhandandather
    f
    ace*
    **
    Alphal
    ette:
    you’r
    equiterudeforanugl
    y
    chick.
    ..
    .f
    ixyouratt
    it
    udesinceyoucantdo
    anythi
    ngabouty ourface
    ***Masai’
    seyespoppedoutashewal
    ked
    towardsherandhepull
    edherchi
    nupandhe
    kissedherli
    ps*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    seey
    oul
    aterwhenIdr
    opJuni
    orof
    fok
    *
    *shenodded*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ilov
    eyou
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    *
    **heki
    ssedherf
    oreheadandwalkedout
    l
    eavi
    ngMasaiandherboss.
    ..
    .Masaicl
    ear
    edher
    t
    hroatf
    eel
    i
    nguncomf
    ort
    abl
    e**
    *
    Masai
    :l
    etmewor
    kont
    hese
    Yolanda:t
    hisisyourf i
    rstv er
    balwarning..
    ..
    thi
    s
    offi
    ceisnotabr othelwer eyouhav esexwi th
    rudemenMasai ...
    .iwillnottoler
    atenonsensei n
    mycompany .
    ..
    ..
    nev ertr
    yt hatstuntagainor
    you’l
    lfi
    ndyourselfwithoutaj obnxa
    ***
    thenshewalkedt
    othedoort
    henst
    opped
    andturned*
    **
    Yol
    anda:
    Iwantt
    hatf
    il
    ebyt
    heendoft
    heday
    ***
    shetur
    nedandwal
    kedoutandMasai
    si
    ghed.
    ..
    shewentt
    oherdeskandt
    ookher
    phoneandmadeacal
    l*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    mybaby
    ..
    ..
    howar
    eyou
    *
    **Masai
    sighed*
    **
    Masai
    :i
    mr eadyt
    oleav
    ethi
    sjobmama.
    ..
    iv
    ehad
    i
    twit
    hYolanda
    Dor
    is:
    leav
    eev
    ery
    thi
    ngt
    ome.
    ..
    .ser
    veherwi
    tha
    r
    esi
    gnat
    ionl
    ett
    erandI
    ’
    llhandl
    ether
    est
    Masai
    :okt
    hanky
    ou
    Dori
    s:how’
    sy oursi
    ster
    ..
    ..
    itr
    iedcall
    ingherand
    herphonej
    ustrangunanswer ed.
    ..
    .iwant
    edto
    tal
    ktoheraboutyourvi
    sit
    orst hi
    sweekend
    **
    *Moerahasbeenignori
    ngMasai
    toobutshe
    wontt
    ellt
    hei
    rmotherthat*
    **
    Masai
    :mamaitsj
    ustdamagesbat
    hong.
    ..
    im not
    get
    ti
    ngmarr
    ied
    Dori
    s:mmmmhify
    ousayso.
    ...
    any
    wayt
    ell
    that
    bi
    gheadcal
    l
    edMoerat
    ocall
    me
    Masai
    :ok
    Dor
    is:
    Ilov
    eyouby
    e
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oomamashap
    ***
    theyendedt hecal
    landshesi
    ghedsit
    ti
    ng
    down..
    .shewasdonewi ththi
    spl
    aceespeci
    all
    y
    wit
    hYol anda*
    **
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    GAZANKULUMABUNDA

    ***Isti
    llcantbel ieveit.
    ..
    .icantbel ieveI
    rememberwhoIam. .
    ..
    I’
    vebeenwr eckingmy
    headt ry
    ingt orememberwhoIam andt oday
    afterTshimol ef tforwor ki fel
    tthist i
    rednessall
    overmybodyandmyey el
    idsf el
    theav ierand
    heav i
    erandsl eept ookov er..
    ..
    WhenIwokeup
    thefir
    stt hi
    ngIdi dwasr eachf ormyphoneon
    thesidedr awerandt hewasnosi dedr awer.
    ..
    .i
    l
    ookedar oundandi minat otall
    ydi f
    ferent
    room. .
    .iswearmyhear tnear lystoppedwheni t
    allcamecr ashingdownonme. .
    .t
    he
    memor i
    es...
    ever ything.
    ..
    .ihadat erri
    ble
    headachef orlikemay beanhourorsot henit
    stoppedandsl eept ookov eragai n..
    .when
    Tshimodisturbedmef rom myt errainof
    thought
    s,ithasn’tbeenlongsinceIwokeup
    andcamet ositoutsi
    detogetsomef r
    eshai
    r
    andtothink..
    .wearenowsi tti
    ngint hemain
    houseandwear ebotheat i
    ngsilentl
    y *
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    arey
    oumar
    ri
    ed
    *
    **f
    #ck!Icantl
    i
    etoher
    ***
    Me:
    unf
    ort
    unat
    elyy
    eah
    ***shecl
    ear
    shert
    hroatandcont
    inuedto
    eat..
    ..
    whyar
    eweactingweir
    dtowardseach
    othernow**
    *
    Me:
    what
    ’supwi
    tht
    hewei
    rdnessbet
    weenus
    Tshi
    mo:t
    here’
    snoweirdnessNt
    sa.
    ..
    imean
    Gazaimj
    usttr
    yingt
    o..
    .
    *
    **shekeepsqui
    et*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    kids
    Me:one.
    ..
    .aboy
    ..
    ..Ny
    iko,
    aver
    ysmar
    tboyI
    mustadd
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Tshimo: oohyahIbroughtyouaphone.
    ..
    it
    s
    nothingexpensi
    vejustsoyou’dcal
    lmeif
    anythinghappens
    ***
    shesaidthelastpartwi
    thalowt oneandshe
    gotupandwentt owardsherbedroom and
    camebackwi thaphonebox .
    ..
    .t
    hisgi rl
    isan
    angel
    ,shecaresandkindhear
    ted..
    ..she
    deser
    vestobepr otect
    edandtreatedl i
    kean
    egg**
    *
    Tshimo:youcancal
    lyourfamil
    ymember
    sim
    suretheyar
    edeadworriedabouty
    ou
    Me:
    youshoul
    dn’
    thav
    ebutt
    hanky
    ou
    ***
    shenoddedandsatdownagai
    nandt
    akes
    herpl
    ate*
    **
    Me:
    im notgonnal
    eav
    eyouTshi
    mol
    ogo
    Tshi
    mo:youaremarri
    edNtsa.
    ..
    Gazaandy
    ou
    haveachi
    ldt
    hatmisseshi
    sdad...
    .
    NARRATED

    Gaza:i
    tscompl
    icat
    edmama. .
    .ver
    ycompli
    cat
    ed
    butasformyson..
    .I
    ’
    llseehim andever
    y
    memberofmyf amil
    yt hatmatter
    stomeorthat
    deser
    vestobeseenbyme
    *
    **shef
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    your
    ememberwhathappenedt
    oyou
    aker
    e
    Gaza:
    andi
    m notr
    eadyt
    otal
    kabouti
    t
    *
    **heputhi
    spl
    atedown*
    **
    Gaza:
    Ihopeyouunder
    stand.
    ..
    .whent
    het
    imei
    s
    ri
    ghtI
    ’
    llt
    ell
    you
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandnodded*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:ok.
    ..
    youneedahai
    rcutandy
    ourbear
    d
    tr
    immed
    ***
    Gazachuckl
    edtouchi
    nghisov
    ergr
    own
    beardandbadl
    ookinghai
    r**
    *
    Gaza:whati
    fIusedt
    ocutmybear
    dcompl
    etel
    y
    of
    f..
    ..
    *
    **Tshi
    mogotupwi
    thherpl
    ate*
    **
    Tshi
    mo: i
    fyoudidthennevercutitcompletel
    y
    off
    ..
    .j
    ustt
    rimitni
    celycauseIthi
    nky ou’
    l
    llook
    morehandsome
    ***
    shewal
    kedawaynotreal
    izi
    ngwhatshej
    ust
    sai
    dandGazasmil
    edwidely
    * *
    *
    Gaza:
    yout
    hinki
    m handsome
    ***shestoppedonhertracksfr
    owningandshe
    tur
    nedt olookathi
    mt hensher emembered
    whatshesai dandqui
    cklywalkedtowardsthe
    kit
    chenwhi chmadeGazat olaugh**
    *
    Gaza:
    momma
    Tshi
    mo:
    eishNt
    sako-
    Gazaeaty
    ourf
    oodt
    uu
    *
    **hel
    aughedl
    i
    ght
    lyt
    henhepi
    ckedhi
    spl
    ate
    andhissmil
    edi
    sappear
    edashestar
    edi
    nto
    spacewit
    hascaryl
    ookonhi
    sface**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    NARRATED (
    THEREYNEKEHOUSEHOLD)

    ***
    Alphalettepackedhi
    scarandgotoutt hen
    heclosedt hedoorandwalkedtowar dsthe
    maindoor .
    ...
    heopenedthedoorandwal kedin,
    hegreetedt hehousehelpr
    espectf
    ul l
    yandt he
    househelpt oldhi
    m hi
    smot heri
    sint he
    backyardandhepr oceededther
    e..
    ..Hismot her
    tur
    nedtol ookwhenshehear dfootstepsand
    shesmi l
    edwhenshesawt hatit
    ’sherson* **
    Ma:
    heybaby
    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    ekissedhercheekandhesatdown
    nexttoher
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    whathappenedt
    hist
    imear
    oundma
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Ma: ahhnot
    hingmuch,Ij
    usthadafal
    loutwi
    th
    yourbrot
    herandIj
    ustneededtobr
    eathe
    Alpha:
    letmeguesshi
    sfat
    hersuppor
    tedhi
    sil
    l
    behavi
    orri
    ght
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Ma:
    justl
    eti
    tgo
    Alpha:
    whyareyousti
    l
    lwit
    hhim ma..
    ..
    you’
    renot
    happy,i
    sthi
    swhatyouwantCl
    airt
    oalsoputup
    withwhenshe’
    sal
    somarri
    ed
    Ma:
    Isai
    dleti
    tgoNt
    sako!
    !
    *
    **hechuckl
    edandhegotup*
    **
    Ma:
    uyaphi
    manj
    e
    Alpha:awayfr
    om all
    these..
    ..
    .y
    oudon’
    tcar
    e
    howseeingyoutreat
    edlikethi
    sdoestome
    so..
    ..
    doy ouma..
    ..
    mydoor swil
    lal
    waysbeopen
    t
    oyouandCl ai
    rthedayy
    oudeci
    det
    oput
    y
    oursel
    ffi
    rstandchoseyou
    Ma:
    heht
    hisboy
    ..
    ..
    .whosai
    dim nothappy
    Al
    pha:
    nev
    ermi
    ndt
    hen
    *
    **heki
    ssedhercheekandwal
    kedawayand
    MrsRey
    nekesighed**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTHEBUI
    LDI
    NG

    ***
    Jabuandhisbrot
    her
    sarewal
    kingar
    oundt
    he
    bui
    ldi
    ngi
    nspecti
    ngitwi
    tht
    heconstr
    act
    ion
    manager
    ***
    Ray
    :ev
    ery
    thi
    ngl
    ooksgood
    *
    **he’
    simpr
    essed*
    **
    Manager
    :yes,
    justmi
    nort
    ouchupsher
    eand
    t
    her
    eandwer
    egoodt
    ogo
    Heath:sowhencanweexpectt hebuil
    dingkey
    s
    sotohandt hem overtothenextpeopl
    et ot
    ake
    overthenextfaceofthisproj
    ect
    Manager
    :int
    woweeks’
    timesi
    r
    Heath:okgood.
    ..
    letusnotkeepy
    ou,
    youcango
    backtoworknow
    ***Henoddedandtheyall
    shookhishandand
    hewentbacktowor kandthebr
    othersst
    ood
    therel
    ooki
    ngaround***
    Jabu:
    Icantbel
    i
    evet
    hisi
    sfi
    nal
    l
    yhappeni
    ng
    Ray:beli
    eveitman. .
    ..
    thi
    sri
    ghther
    eisa
    generati
    onallegacyforourki
    dsand
    grandchi
    ldr
    en
    *
    **t
    heyal
    lnodded*
    **
    Heat
    h:soanywor
    dfr
    om Lol
    l
    y
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghedandheshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Heat
    h:di
    dyoucal
    lherj
    ustt
    ocheckuponher
    Jabu:yahbutshedi dn’tgiv
    eany thi
    ngup...
    ..
    i
    meant hel eakedinfoaboutdaai moegoebei ng
    i
    nvestigatedf orhumant raff
    icki
    ngisalloverthe
    i
    nternet,hewasev enar r
    estedandr el
    easedon
    bai
    lbutshe’ sst i
    l
    lquietnxa
    Ray
    :soy
    ouexpect
    edhert
    orunt
    oyou
    Jabu:
    that
    ’sexact
    lywhatsheshoul
    d’
    vedone
    bi
    gRay
    *
    **Rayshookhi
    sheaddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Ray:you’
    removingtoof
    astman...
    .r
    emember
    you’
    resti
    llmar
    ri
    edandwej ustbur
    iedour
    pri
    ncessbuther
    ey ouar
    erunningaft
    eranot
    her
    woman
    Jabu:eehvagmanbi
    gRaykaboDrPhi lbagao
    (eehbigRayst
    opwit
    hyourDrPhi
    ltendenci
    es)
    Ray:i
    t’
    sthet
    ruthandyouknowit
    ..
    ..
    youhaven’
    t
    heal
    edJabu,you’
    rest
    il
    lhur
    ti
    ngandyoucant
    br
    ingLol
    l
    yint
    oal
    lthat
    Jabu:
    Ilov
    eher
    Ray:youalsolovedAmoi nfactIknowdeep
    downbehi ndallt
    hathur tyoustil
    ll
    ov eher,
    you’
    restil
    lhopingthisisallj
    ustadr eam and
    you’
    l
    l wakeupandshe’ sstil
    lyouridealwoman
    andprincessissti
    llali
    ve
    **
    *Heat
    hsighedandJabuj
    ustkeptqui
    etwi
    th
    hi
    sjawscl
    enched**
    *
    Ray :
    don’tbr
    ingLoll
    yintoal
    lthatorelseyou’l
    l
    bleedonherandr ui
    nthingsfurthermore.
    ..
    ..
    heal
    fi
    rst.
    ..
    .l
    etherdateyourbestversionnota
    versi
    onofabl eedi
    ngmant hatwi ll
    puni
    shher
    forAmo’ssins
    Heat
    h:he’
    stel
    l
    ingt
    het
    rut
    hman
    Jabu:
    arey
    oubot
    hdone
    Heat
    h:f
    otsek!
    !!
    Jabu:
    lwenaf
    otseknxa
    *
    **hewal
    kedaway
    ***
    Heath:oksal
    ayotsebegaenaskhur umelo
    (
    whet heryoul
    ikeitornotaneardoesn’
    thavea
    l
    id)
    ..
    ..youhear
    dhim msono
    **
    *heshoutedaft
    erhi
    m andRaysi
    ghedast
    hey
    wentaf
    terhim**
    *
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Hedroveinsi
    dehisyardandhegotoutas
    hi
    select
    ri
    cgateclosed.
    ..
    .hecl
    osedthedoor
    andwentinsi
    dethehouseandhe’sshockedby
    whathefi
    nds* *
    *
    Jabu:
    andnou.
    ..
    .whol
    ety
    oui
    nmyhouse
    *
    **heaskedl
    ookingl
    i
    vidandAmoswal
    l
    owed
    l
    ooki
    ngdown* *
    *
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :Idi
    d
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    pingherhandswi
    thherapr
    on*
    **
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :yout
    woneedt
    otal
    k
    Jabu:t
    alkaboutwhatmahuh.
    ..
    .t
    alkabout
    what.
    ..
    .wil
    ltal
    ki
    ngbri
    ngbackmychil
    d!!
    !
    Hismot her:
    tal
    kinghel
    psJabu..
    .youneed
    cl
    osure...
    sheneedstoanswerallyour
    questi
    onssoy ou’l
    lbeabl
    etomov eon.
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    re
    stuckmyson. .
    ..
    youneedtomov eandshecan
    helpyoumov esoy ou’
    l
    lstar
    tyourheali
    ng
    process
    **
    *thei
    nter
    com r
    angandJabuwentt
    ocheck
    whoiti
    sfumingwit
    hanger
    ***
    Jabu:
    whot
    hef
    ucki
    sit
    !!
    !
    Voi
    ce:
    isthi
    sabadt
    ime.
    ..
    it
    sokI
    ’
    llcomeback
    some.
    ..
    Jabu:
    Lor
    rai
    ne?
    ??
    *
    **shekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Jabu:
    Lol
    l
    y
    *
    **hecal
    l
    edhernamegent
    lyandshesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Lol
    ly
    :im..
    .i
    m sor
    ryt
    obot
    hery
    ou.
    ..
    .idi
    dn’
    tknow
    wheretogo
    ***hequi
    cklyopenedt hegat eandr ushedt othe
    doorandgotoutf oll
    owedbyhi smot her.
    ...
    she
    walkedinl
    ookinghor ri
    ble.
    ..
    .she’swear i
    ngt i
    ghts
    andabaggysweat erandsleeper s.
    ..
    .herfaceis
    pinkandhereyesar eswollenandpuf fy
    ..
    ..he
    rushestoherandhol dshert i
    ghtasshedr ops
    herhandbagandcr iestohischestpai nfull
    y***
    Hi
    s.mother
    :whathappened.
    ..
    .Lor
    rai
    ne.
    ..
    .ooh
    Nkosi
    yam whathappenedmtanami
    *
    **shesai
    drushi
    ngtothem..
    ..
    .bythedoorAmo
    i
    sfumingwit
    hangerl
    ookingatthem***
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --

    ATMASAIANDMOERA’
    SPLACE
    ***Masaiwalksinwi t
    hshoppi ngbagsful
    lof
    groceri
    esandsheputt hem ontopofthe
    counterandshet akesof fherbl
    ock
    heels.
    ..
    .Moera’
    sbedr oom dooropensand
    Moer awalksoutwear i
    nghergownandshe
    stopsonhert r
    acks***
    Moer
    a:oohi
    tsy
    ou
    Masai
    :hi
    Mo
    Moer
    a:mmmh
    *
    **whyi
    ssheact
    ingl
    i
    ket
    his“Masai
    t
    hought
    ”**
    *
    Masai
    :whatdi
    dIdot
    oyouMoer
    a
    Moera:kabonasangomael eyagaoy aogafi
    sa
    neh(Iseethatt
    radi
    ti
    onaldoctorofyour
    sis
    dri
    vi
    ngy oucr
    azyneh).
    ..
    iwouldn’
    tbesurpri
    sedif
    hegivesyoumorati
    so(alovepotion)
    shem
    *
    **Masai
    sighed*
    **
    Masai
    :whyar
    eyouacti
    ngl
    i
    kethisMo..
    ..
    since
    whenarey
    outhi
    srudet
    ome..
    ..
    .whatdi
    dIdot o
    you
    Moer
    a:y
    ou’
    renott
    hatspeci
    alMasai
    please
    *
    **shesai
    dwalki
    ngtowar
    dst
    heki
    tchenand
    t
    ookoutbott
    ledwat
    er
    Voice:babekonjeyousaidwhatsyour
    address..
    ..
    iwanttoorderi
    nfood,Idon’
    thav
    e
    thestrengt
    htogoout
    ***amanonlywear i
    nghi sboxerswalkedoutof
    Moer a’
    sbedroom busyonhi sphonetor eal
    ize
    thatMasaiwasi nther oom...
    .Moeraclearedher
    throatandt
    heguyl ookedupandi mmedi ately
    hishandwentt ohispr i
    vatescoverthetent
    formedbyhiser ectd#ck* **
    Man:
    ummm hi
    Masai
    :hi
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thast
    rai
    ghtf
    aceandt
    heguy
    l
    ookedoveratMoerat
    henbackatMasai
    andhe
    t
    urnedandwentbacktoMoera’
    abedr
    oom**
    *
    Masai
    :real
    l
    yMoer
    a
    Moer
    a:don’
    tst
    artwi
    thmewenanxa
    Masai:
    wepromisedtoneverbr
    ingguy
    shere
    forasl
    eepoverortohav
    esexforKhai
    ’ssake
    andnowyou’
    redoingthi
    s
    Moera:
    sam bor
    aMasai tuuassombl
    i
    ef(don’
    t
    bor
    emeMasai please)
    ***
    shesaidwalki
    ngawaygoi
    ngbacktoher
    bedroom andMasai
    shookherheadandshe
    si
    ghed***
    Masai
    :Lor
    dwhat
    ’shappeni
    ngwi
    thmyt
    win

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #2DAREI
    S2DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    (THI
    SCHAPTERI SDEDI
    CATEDTOALLOF
    YOUFORYOURPRAYERS, UNDERSTANDING
    ANDPATIENCE.
    ..
    THANKYOU...
    .IAPPRECIATE
    ALLOFYOUSOMUCH. ..
    ENJOY!)
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER16
    .
    .
    .
    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Jabupickedherupandshewr appedher
    armsaroundhisneckandlaidherheadonhis
    shoul
    derandJabuwal kedtowardsthedoor
    whil
    ehismot herpi
    ckedherbagonthefloor
    ***
    Jabu:
    chi
    ft
    a(mov
    e)
    Amo:doy ouseewhatyouaredoi
    ngasthe
    ri
    ghtt
    hingJabu.
    ..
    .howdareyoudothist
    ome
    Jabu.
    ..
    .howcanyouembarrassmeliket
    hat
    Jabu:kaobonaobethakeny anyaza
    wena..
    ..
    chif
    tabef
    oreonnyela(i canseey
    ou’
    re
    ondrugs..
    ..
    movebefor
    eIfucky ouup)
    ***shelookedathim witht
    ear sinhereyesand
    thatdidn’tevenmovehim onebi t,
    shemov ed
    thenJabuwal kedi
    nwi t
    hLorraineandhewent
    upstai
    r swithhertothemasterbedr oom andhe
    putheront hebedandshehel dont ohim as
    shesni ff
    ed* *
    *
    Jabu:
    oval
    enna(
    tal
    ktome)
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etwhi
    l
    eshe’
    sst
    il
    lsni
    ff
    ing*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:hewasar
    rest
    edf
    orhumant
    raf
    fi
    cki
    ng
    *
    **Jabukeptqui
    et*
    **
    Lol
    ly:
    Iwassl eepi
    ngwithahumantraf
    fi
    cker
    Jabu.
    ..
    .thesamekindofpeoplet
    hatki
    dnapped
    andkil
    ledmyy oungersi
    ster
    Jabu:
    youdi
    dn’
    tknowLol
    l
    y
    Lol
    l
    y:wai
    t.
    ..
    .y
    ouknew
    *
    **Jabudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    nghej
    ustsi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    Jabu:wouldyouhav ebeli
    evedmewhenIt ol
    d
    youwhi l
    eyouwerest i
    l
    linthehoney
    moon
    face.
    ..
    .youwoul
    dn’thavebeliev
    edmeLol l
    y
    i
    nsteady ouwoul
    dhav ethoughtimtry
    ingtouse
    myt r
    ickstobr
    eaky ouup
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:rememberyouj
    ustf
    orgav
    eme.
    ..
    .y
    ou
    wouldn’thav
    ebel
    i
    evedmeIknow
    ***Shejustheldontohimt ightandheki ssed
    herforeheadholdi
    nghert i
    ghtt oo.
    ..
    .r
    ightthen
    thedooropenedandi nwal kedJabu’smom
    withaglassfil
    ledwithwatermi xedwi t
    hhsugar
    fol
    lowedbyAmoandwhenAmosawt hem
    cuddli
    ngl i
    kethatherangershotup* **
    Mom:
    situpanddr
    inkmygi
    rl
    ***sheslowlygotof
    fJabu’
    shol dandsatup
    andherey esmetwithAmo’ sandshecouldsee
    shewasl ivi
    d,shesi
    ghedandt ookthegl
    ass
    withhershakyhandsfrom Jabu’smom andshe
    drankslowly***
    Amo:doyouallseethiswholethi
    nggoi
    ngon
    asr
    ightmmh..
    ..
    maIknowImessedupbutt hi
    s
    embarr
    assmentisitnecessar
    y
    **
    * shesai
    dwi
    thashakyv
    oiceandt
    ear
    sinher
    eyes***
    Mom:Jabugohavethatt
    alkwi
    thy
    ourwi
    fe.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    ll
    st
    ayher
    ewithLor
    rai
    ne
    Jabu:
    butma
    Jabu:
    hamba(
    go)Jabuman!
    Jabu:
    kazokal
    aneh(I
    ’
    llbebackok)
    ***Loll
    ynoddedanddrankhermi xtureandhe
    sighedandgotoffthebedandwal kedoutof
    thedoorfol
    lowedbyAmo. ..
    .theywentdown
    stair
    sandJabupacedar oundhi slounge
    calminghi
    mselfdownwhi leAmoj ustsatt
    her
    e
    givi
    ngoutthisi
    nnocentgir
    l f
    açade* **
    Amo:
    im sor
    ryJabu.
    ..
    isweari
    ..
    .
    Jabu:
    stopr
    ightt
    her
    e
    *
    **shekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Jabu:youcheat
    ingwasn’tami st
    ake,youtryi
    ng
    tochangemewasn’tami stake,youdrugging
    meandf orci
    ngyour
    selfonmewhi chkil
    ledmy
    daughterwasn’
    tamist
    akesodon’ tev
    enl i
    e
    Amogelangbecausey
    ou’
    l
    lpi
    ssmeof
    fmor
    e
    thanIal
    readyam
    ***
    shekeptquietlooki
    ngdownassheregrett
    ed
    eachandeverybaddecisionshemade.
    ..
    .Jabu
    satdownonanot hercouchandhel
    ookedat
    her*
    **
    Jabu:
    whyAmogel
    ang.
    ..
    .why
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thabr
    eaki
    ngv
    oice*
    **
    Jabu:whydidy
    oubr eakmel i
    kethi
    sheh.
    ..
    .why
    breakourf
    amil
    ylikethi
    s..
    .wanonkhawata(you
    j
    usthurtme)asifImeannot hi
    ngtoyou
    Amo:
    im sor
    ry
    *
    **shesai
    dsobbi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:
    Igavey
    ouever
    ythi
    ng.
    ..
    .Il
    ovedy
    oul
    i
    ke
    youweret
    heonl
    ywomanonear th
    Amo:
    Jabui
    m sor
    ry
    Jabu:i
    tsoverj
    oh.
    ..
    im done.
    ..
    .iwi
    ll
    neverf
    orgi
    ve
    youforwhatyoudi
    d..
    .idon’
    tevenknowwhy
    you’
    resti
    llal
    ive.
    ..
    .nkebekegobodi
    sil
    e(I
    shoul
    d’vekil
    l
    edy ou).
    ..
    .t
    hiswor
    ldi
    sjustt
    oo
    smallf
    orthebot hofustoshar
    e
    Amo:itsnotov
    er..
    ..
    im gonnafi
    ghtforour
    marri
    ageJabu.
    ...
    im notgi
    vingup.
    ..
    .I
    ’l
    lfi
    ghtunt
    il
    youseehowsor r
    yIam
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:
    keepf
    ight
    ingnt
    omboowhi
    l
    eImov
    eon
    Amo:
    wit
    hherr
    ight
    *
    **sheaskedwithabr
    eaki
    ngv
    oiceandJabu
    j
    ustkeptqui
    et*
    **
    Amo:I
    ’dr
    atherdi
    ethanwat
    cht
    hatwhor
    etake
    awaymyfamil
    y
    **
    *Jabulookedathersur
    pri
    sedt
    hatshe
    swore.
    ..
    .hecoul
    dn’
    tbeli
    evet
    hatt
    hiswashi
    s
    Amo* *
    *
    Jabu:okIthi
    nkyou’
    veov
    erst
    ayedy
    our
    vi
    sit
    ..
    ..
    vaya(go)
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngupandsodi
    dAmo*
    **
    Amo:Jabupl
    easedon’
    tdothi
    s..
    ..
    wecanf
    ight
    thi
    sbabyi
    m sor
    ryImessedup
    Jabu:
    vay
    aAmogel
    ang
    Amo:Idi
    dn’
    tknowhe’
    sacul
    ti
    st.
    ..
    .idi
    dn’
    tknowI
    swear
    Jabu:
    ker
    il
    evay
    a(Isai
    dgo)
    Amo:Noooo!I
    m notgoinganywher
    eleavi
    ng
    youwit
    hher.
    ..
    .can’
    tyouseewhatshe’
    stry
    ingto
    doJabuheh.
    ..
    i wi
    ll
    notlosey
    outoher..
    .NEVER!
    Jabu:gett
    hefuckoutofmyhouseAmogel
    ang
    befor
    eIlosei
    t
    Amo:
    no
    Jabu:ontl
    waelany wannabyanong..
    ..
    ontl
    waela
    mar et
    eatonki wena..
    ..
    you’
    restandi
    ngthereka
    dibrai
    dstsaosetlhefal
    aekar emegwapay a
    tonkietl
    hafunnekempy ay
    asgaf il
    ebo
    yell
    owboneekar eguavayaobol a(you’
    re
    standingtherewithyourwor
    noutbr ai
    dst hat
    l
    ookl ikedri
    edmeatofadonkeyt hatwas
    chewedbyar avingmaddogwithy ourli
    ghtskin
    thatlookli
    kear ott
    enguavaand.
    ..)otlompot sa
    mar eteaoshoshobana
    Mom:
    HAIJABULANI
    !!
    !
    *
    **Shesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngdownt
    hest
    air
    s**
    *
    Jabu:GETTHEF* CKOUTOFMYHOUSE
    AMOGELANGBEFOREMMAOAUTLWAKA
    STITCHSEASEKEREI LE(yourmot her’
    sst
    itch
    shegot)WHENSHEPUSHEDTHI SEMPTY
    HEADOFYOURSSEKGAOGA(t ear)
    ...
    .OSKA
    NTEKATUMELOAMOGELANGKETLAO
    BONTSASTORY. ..
    NETFLIX MOSOSHANGUVE
    WANKUTLWA!(don’ ttestmeAmogel angI’
    l
    l
    showy ouastor
    y..
    .Net
    fli
    xhereatSoshanguve
    doy ouhearme!
    )
    Mom:
    Amogel
    angl
    eav
    eman
    Amo:
    im notgoi
    ngmama.
    ..
    im gonnaf
    ixmy
    mar
    ri
    age
    Jabu:okaony
    akovaya(oky
    oudon’
    twantt
    o
    go).
    ..
    ok.
    ..
    wai
    tforme
    *
    **hewal
    kedt
    owar
    dshi
    sst
    udy*
    **
    Mom:Amogel
    angt
    samay
    a(go)y
    oucansee
    he’
    sangr
    y
    Amo:
    she’
    sgonnat
    akehi
    m mamaIcant
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Mom:youl
    osthi
    mthemomenty
    oul
    ett
    hedev
    il
    usey
    ouAmo
    Amo:
    Ilov
    ehi
    m mama.
    ..
    .il
    ovehi
    m Iswear
    **
    * bythisti
    meherfaceispinkasshe
    cr
    ies..
    ..t
    heyhear
    df ootst
    epsandwhenthey
    l
    ookedhewashol dingagunputti
    ngi
    na
    si
    lencer* *
    *
    Mom:
    Jabu!
    !
    *
    **shesai
    dpani
    cki
    ngwi
    thherhandsont
    opof
    herhead*
    **
    Jabu:obonapopey ewhenyoulookatme
    aker
    e..
    ..kenyakobont
    shammaokaj eno(you
    seeafool whenyouseeri
    ght.
    ..
    .t
    odayIwanna
    showy ouyourmother)
    ***
    Amogelangscreamedandsherant
    othe
    door,
    openeditandranout
    side*
    **
    Mom:Jabul
    ani
    putt
    hatgunawayr
    ightt
    his
    moment!
    !
    Jabu:y
    oul
    etheri
    nsidemyhousema. .
    ..
    the
    samewomanthatcheat
    ed,
    forcedherselfon
    meandkil
    l
    edmydaughteryouletheri
    nsidemy
    house
    Mom:Iwant
    edy
    out
    ogetcl
    osur
    eandheal
    my
    son
    Jabu:am Iheali
    ngnow...
    .di
    dIgetcl
    osur
    eafter
    speaki
    ngtoher .
    ..
    .Nooooo!noIdi
    dn’
    tbutshe
    j
    ustmadet hingsworse!!
    *
    **hi
    smot
    hercr
    ied*
    **
    Jabu:
    stayoutofmybusi
    nessmaplease..
    .l
    et
    medealwiththi
    ngst
    hewayIseef
    it
    ...
    im no
    l
    ongerachil
    d!!
    ***
    thenhewentbacktohi
    sstudyandputthe
    gunwhereitwasandhesatonhischai
    r.
    ..
    he
    bowedhisheadandsobbedpai
    nful
    ly*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    * *
    *He’sbusyputti
    ngtradit
    ionalherbsinside
    dif
    ferentbottl
    esout
    sidehistradit
    ionalhut
    whistl
    ing.
    ..t
    odaywasabusydayf orhim wi t
    h
    pati
    entslini
    nguplookingforhelpev enthe
    fol
    lowingdayhewi l
    lbebusycausehe’ staking
    someoft hem totherivert
    ocleanset hem. .
    .hi
    s
    phonerangdist
    urbi
    nghim..
    ..
    hewi
    pedhi
    s
    handsandpickedthecal
    l
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    hel
    l
    o
    *
    **t
    heper
    sonj
    ustkeptqui
    etandhef
    rowned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Icanhearyoubr
    eat
    hingnowt
    alkori
    m
    dr
    oppi
    ngthi
    scall
    *
    **Hesai
    dfi
    rml
    y**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    Ntsako
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    oze*
    **
    Voi
    ce:Nt
    sakohemi
    naGaza(Nt
    sakoi
    tsme
    Gaza)
    **
    * Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    dast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledhi
    s
    eyes**
    *
    Al
    pha:hemani
    bit
    irhameherhaswi
    kwembo
    (whati
    smyancest
    ralname)
    Gaza:
    Thamboleny okayaseManzi
    ni.
    ..
    you
    werei
    nit
    iat
    edunderwater.
    ..
    .wehav
    eadark
    secr
    etwevowedtotaket
    othegr
    ave.
    ..
    .me,
    you
    andbabaaboutAunt
    yandMpho
    *
    **Alphal
    ett
    eclosedhisey
    esandthet
    ears
    r
    oll
    eddownhi scheeksandhequi
    ckl
    ywiped
    t
    hem off*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    wher
    ear
    eyou.
    ..
    .i
    m onmyway
    Gaza:
    I’
    ll
    piny
    oumyl
    ocat
    iononWhat
    sApp
    ***Al
    phalet
    tedroppedthecallandhequi ckl
    y
    putever
    ythi
    nginsidehisancestr
    alhutandhe
    l
    ockeditandquicklywenttotakeashowerand
    hegotdressedandt ookhi
    sgun, wall
    et,phone
    andcarkeysandhesai dgoodby et
    ohi sson
    Tshepoandleft
    ***

    _
    ___

    TSHI
    MO’
    SHOUSE
    ***Al
    phapar kedout sidethegat eandashewas
    abouttocal lGazat hedoortot hemai nhouse
    openedandoutcameGaza. .
    .Alphalett
    ebend
    andheldhi skneesl ookingdownashef eltdizzy
    abit.
    ..di
    fferentemot ionswerer unningthrough
    hismind..
    ..hekeptsay i
    ng“f*
    ck...f
    *ck”overand
    overagaint r
    y i
    ngt ocalm down...
    .Thegat e
    openedandhesl owlystoodupr ightandt ears
    randownhi scheeks....
    .Hequicklyrushedt o
    him andtheyhuggedashesobbedpai nfull
    y
    withGaza’st earsrunningdownhi scheeks
    too***
    Gaza:i
    tsoki
    m st
    il
    lal
    i
    ve.
    ..
    ifoughtandcame
    back
    *
    **t
    heyheldonforsomet imeuntil
    theybr
    oke
    t
    hehugandwi pedthei
    rtearsoff
    ..
    ..
    thent
    hey
    l
    ookedateachotherandlaughed***
    Al
    pha:
    im mor
    emuscl
    edt
    hany
    ounow
    Gaza:
    fornow.
    ..
    im goi
    ngbackt
    othegy
    m
    ***t
    heylaughedandAlphalockedhiscarand
    theywentinsi
    de.
    ..
    .theysatdownont hecouch
    andAlphasighedrubbinghiseyes*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Isear
    chedev
    ery
    wher
    efory
    ou
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    youwoul
    dn’
    thav
    efoundme
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    elookedathi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:Aunty
    ,hersonMduandmymot heri
    nlaw
    sol
    dmet oawit
    chdoct
    or..
    .idon’
    tknowif
    Marinaknewornotbutthosethreesol
    dmeor
    str
    okeadeal wi
    ththewi
    tchdoctor
    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    equi
    ckl
    ygotupandhepacedup
    anddown***
    Al
    pha:
    Iknewauntywasinv
    olv
    edsomehow
    i
    ncl
    udi
    nghisusel
    esssonbutMar
    ina’
    smot
    her
    Gaza:shehatesmet hatoldwit
    ch.
    ..
    .remember
    sheoncetoldmet omyf acethati
    m notgood
    enoughforherdaughter
    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    ejustshookhi
    sheadandhesat
    down***
    Al
    pha:
    howdi
    dyouescape?
    *
    **Gazasighedandher
    ubbedhishands
    t
    ogetherasall
    thememori
    esoccupi
    edhis
    mind**
    *
    Gaza: onedayIwokeuponl ytofindchainst hat
    wer eusedt okeepmecapt ivelooseforsome
    reason...
    thenIheardav oicetelli
    ngmet or un..
    ..
    i
    gott hechainsoffandsear chedf ormycl ot
    hes
    sinceIwasnakedandIwor ethem andr anout
    ofthatmudhouse. .
    ..
    iwasweakbutIpushed
    my selfunti
    lIlookedbackandIcoul dn’
    tseet he
    mudhouseany more..
    ..
    ireachedt hemai nroad
    andsi nceIwasst il
    ldi
    sorientatedIcrossedt he
    roadwi thoutl
    ookingbothway sandt hat’
    swhen
    Igotknockedoutbyacar
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:f
    *ck!
    !
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngdownandGazacl
    enchedhi
    s
    j
    awst
    henhecont
    inued*
    **
    Gaza:Iwokeupnotf arf
    rom t
    hemainr oad
    i
    nsideasmal lhol
    ethatwasprobabl
    ymadeby
    rai
    nwithoutanymemor yofwhoIam. .
    ..
    *
    **hechuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Gaza: I
    t’
    sfunnyhowInowr ememberevery
    thi
    ng
    thathappenedwhenIlostmymemor y.
    ..
    ..
    li
    ke
    howi sthatpossi
    bleNt
    sako
    Al
    pha:
    itbaf
    fl
    esmet
    oo
    Gaza:anywayIwasi npain,bl eeding..
    ..iwent
    i
    nsidetheforestandIf oundast ream t hereand
    Icl
    eanedmy self..
    ..Idon’
    trememberwhat
    happenednextt henIremembert akinganap
    i
    nsideatruckthatwaspar kedataf i
    ll
    ingst ati
    on
    andIwokeupi nhospitalIthinkinWi t
    bankt hen
    Iheardavoicetelli
    ngmet or unaf terIthinkt wo
    weeksthereandt ot el
    lyout het ruthIdon’ teven
    rememberhowIgotoutoft hathospi tal
    *
    **hebr
    ushedhi
    shead*
    **
    Gaza: thenextthi
    ngsIfoundmy selfherei
    n
    Hammanskr aaloutsi
    dethisgate..
    ..ido
    rememberhergi vi
    ngmef oodandIdon’ t
    rememberwher eIwentorwer eIst ayed
    here...
    .t
    henIrememberf all
    ingsickandIf ound
    my selfhereagainandIwokeupi nher
    backr oom..
    ..
    shetookcareofme, fed
    me. .
    .prayedforme
    *
    **hesmi
    l
    edt
    hent
    ookadeepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Gaza:she’
    sGodsendman. ..
    .shecould’
    vecall
    ed
    thecopsoranambulancebutno. .
    ..
    she’
    sgift
    ed
    soshesaidshesawmaandmabeggedhert o
    helpmeandshedid.
    ...
    im her
    et odaybecauseof
    her.
    ..
    iowehermyli
    feman
    Alpha:
    whatshedidcould’
    veputheringreat
    dangerbutshest
    il
    lhel
    pedy ou.
    ..
    .ir
    especther
    *
    **Gazasmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:yeahshe’
    soneofakindandI’
    ll
    li
    vet
    he
    restofmydaysoneart
    htakingcar
    eof
    her
    ..
    ..
    shecould’
    veref
    usedt
    ohelpmecauseI
    wasastrangerman..
    ..
    smel
    l
    ingwit
    hamemory
    l
    ossbutshehelpedme
    Alpha:hernotcall
    ingthecopsorsendi
    ngy ou
    tohospitalsavedyourli
    fecausethewi
    tch
    doctorwasl ooki
    ngforyouthat’
    swhymaIsai d
    youshoul drunwheny ouwereinhospi
    tal
    that
    ti
    me
    *
    **Gazanoddedandhesi
    ghedandsatback*
    **
    Gaza:
    how’
    sev
    ery
    one
    Alpha:okconsi
    der
    ing.
    ..
    .babai
    ssti
    ll
    searchi
    ng
    foryouandNy i
    koasksaboutyouever
    ytimeI
    callhi
    m
    *
    **Gazacl
    osedhi
    sey
    escl
    enchi
    nghi
    sjaws*
    **
    Gaza:
    whataboutMar
    ina
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ekeptqui
    etabi
    tthenhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    she’
    sseei
    ngMduandshegav
    ebi
    rt
    htoa
    babygir
    l
    *
    **at
    earr
    andownhi
    scheeks*
    **
    Alpha:
    Ny i
    kostay
    swi t
    hbaba,shedidn’
    tev
    en
    fi
    ghthim whenhetookhi
    m...
    im sor
    ryman
    *
    **Gazawi
    pedhi
    stear
    s**
    *
    Gaza:
    whyi
    sshedoi
    ngt
    hist
    omeman
    Alpha:hermothercont
    rol
    sherman..
    ..
    that
    womani sawi t
    ch,whatev
    ershesay
    st ohershe
    agreesjustl
    ikethat
    Gaza:didshetel
    lhertosleepwi t
    hMduandget
    pregnantt
    oo..
    ..
    imeanwhenIf oundoutabout
    herandMdusheapol ogizedandsaiditwasa
    mistakeanditdi
    dn’tmeanany thi
    ngmeaning
    sheknewsheknowi nglyfuckedupbigti
    me
    Alpha: Iknowok...
    iknow.
    ..
    imjustgl
    adyou
    di
    dn’ tkil
    lthem pai
    nti
    ngyourhandswit
    hthei
    r
    uselessandev ilbl
    ood
    **
    *Gazaswal
    lowedwhenhethoughtoft
    hatday
    hefoundt
    hem t
    oget
    her.
    ..
    .hewassoangryall
    hesawwasr ed..
    ..
    hewasreadytogotojai
    lfor
    murderbutAlphalett
    est
    oppedhim..
    ..
    hisvoi
    ce
    ranginhisheadashewar nedhi
    m nottokil
    l
    them..
    ..Gazasighedandhegotupandwentt o
    getthem dri
    nksandsnacksthenhesat
    down* *
    *
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    our
    eadyt
    ofaceev
    ery
    one
    Gaza:
    doesshev
    isi
    tNy
    iko
    Al
    pha:
    yeahshedoes
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Gaza:
    thebabyi
    shi
    s??
    ?
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    itl
    ooksli
    kei
    tbecausehet
    akescar
    eof
    herandthebaby
    *
    **hebi
    thi
    slowerl
    i
    p**
    *
    Gaza:
    Ist
    il
    ll
    oveherandIhat
    ehersomuchat
    t
    hesametime
    *
    **t
    henhel
    ookedatAl
    phal
    ett
    e**
    *
    Gaza:
    howpossi
    blei
    sthat
    Al
    pha:
    ver
    ypossi
    ble
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:hernameisTshimol
    ogo,she’
    sshor
    tbut
    nottooshortandshe’
    sbeaut
    if
    ul
    *
    **t
    heychuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:she’
    saf
    eist
    yonebutki
    ndhear
    tedand
    gi
    fted
    Al
    pha:gi
    ft
    edasi
    nbacksi
    degi
    ft
    edorgi
    ft
    ed-
    gi
    ft
    ed
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    bot
    h
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:buti
    m notgonnacrosst
    hatl
    i
    ne.
    ..
    .she’
    s
    deart
    omesobl eedingonheri
    snotanopti
    on
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    enoddedagr
    eei
    ngwi
    thhi
    m**
    *
    Alpha:im gl
    adyou’r
    eali
    veman..
    ..Iprayedt
    hat
    wef i
    ndy ouali
    ve.
    ..
    .wesear
    chedev ery
    whereI
    meanev enwher eyouhadtheaccidentwe
    searchedeverywhere
    ***
    Gazajustsighedwit
    hhisey escl
    osed..
    .he
    di
    dn’twannat al
    kaboutwhathewentt hr
    ough
    butbett
    erNtsakothanastrangerwho’d
    questi
    onhisinsani
    tywhenhespeaksabout
    wit
    chcraft
    ***
    Gaza:
    pleasemakemesomet
    hingt
    ohel
    pme
    for
    get
    *
    **Hesai
    dwi
    thabr
    okenv
    oice*
    **
    Gaza:
    Iwannaf
    orget
    Alphalette:youneedtofacet
    het raumaf i
    rst
    Gee...
    .faceitheadonandstar
    ty ourheali
    ng
    processt henI’
    llgi
    vey
    ousomet hing..
    .y
    ouneed
    tobeal ri
    ghtforbabaandmoreespeci all
    yNyiko
    **
    *Gazar
    ubbedhist
    earsof
    fandAlphal
    ett
    e
    wentt
    ositnextt
    ohi
    m andhesqueezedhi
    s
    shoulderastearsrandownhischeeks...
    .He
    knewhedi dn’thav
    et obest
    ronginfrontof
    Alphalet
    tecausethey’v
    eseeneachot herat
    thei
    rwor st
    ***
    Al
    phalet
    te:
    wegonnagothr
    oughthi
    stoget
    her
    man..
    ..
    wegonnafi
    ghtt
    hist
    raumaandconquer
    i
    tli
    kewealwaysdo
    *
    **Gaza’
    sphonerecei
    vedamessagei
    twas
    f
    rom Tshi
    mo***
    Tshimo:‘hey.
    ..
    im gonnabehomeabi tl
    ate
    today.
    ..
    im goi
    ngoutwi t
    hmycolleaguesfor
    somedr i
    nks..
    .iknowtomorrowi
    m goingwor k
    sodon’tworryIwon’tdri
    nktoomuch...
    .don’
    t
    waitup’
    *
    **hecl
    i
    ckedhi
    stongueget
    ti
    ngagi
    tat
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’swr
    ong
    Gaza:
    canyoubel
    ievethi
    sgirl
    .
    ...
    she’
    sgoingout
    onaWednesday.
    ..
    .WednesdayNtsakoand
    tomor
    rowshe’
    sgoingtoworknxa
    *
    **Al
    phaj
    ustl
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:uriekamina(she’ssay
    ingtome)don’
    t
    waitup.
    ..
    .don’
    twai
    tupy amatjemba.
    ..
    .msono
    wadon’twaitup
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngup*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    oyakwi
    ni(wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng)
    Gaza:coll
    eaguest
    amat
    jembanxa(shi
    tt
    y
    col
    leaguesnxa)
    ***hewenttotheki
    tchenandpouredhimsel
    f
    somewat erandfi
    nishedthegl
    assatonego
    thenheheldthesi
    nkwi t
    hbothhandslooki
    ng
    down* *
    *
    Gaza:shedoesn’tthinknxa...
    .doessheknow
    howdanger ousitisoutthere..
    ..
    womenar e
    ki
    dnappeddai l
    y..
    .somear ekill
    edandsomear e
    tr
    affi
    ckedandshe’ sgoingoutwi thst
    upid
    coll
    eaguestodrinkandcomi nghomel at
    e..
    ..
    a
    ndzibiwansatinehmar alowuwakokoma
    engakondlelayakoy aatoil
    etul avampama
    yakohi saahenhlakanhlokoleswakuby ongo
    byay enabyitl
    hel
    elaekaresetmode. .
    ..
    engakoo
    nav ir
    usaby ongwenibyayenanxa(Idon’ thita
    womannehbutt hatshortonethat’sshortli
    ke
    apat hthatl
    eadst ot
    hetoil
    etneedsahotsl ap
    ont opofherheadsot hatherbraincangot o
    resetmode...It
    hinkshehasav irusinherbrain
    nxa)
    ***
    Al phalet
    tet
    riedtohol
    dhi
    slaughbuthe
    couldn’tsohelaughedpi
    ssi
    ngGazaoffthe
    more* **
    Gaza:
    fot
    sekohl
    ekay
    ini
    (pi
    ssof
    fwhatar
    eyou
    l
    aughi
    ngat)
    Al
    pha:
    whyar
    emad
    Gaza:
    makendeawenaNt
    sako
    *
    **Nt
    sakol
    aughedsomemor
    e**
    *
    Gaza:nxa..
    ..
    ifIcal
    lherandrai
    semyconcer ns
    she’
    ll
    thinkim cont
    roll
    ingherandifIdon’
    tand
    somethingbadhappenst oherI’
    ll
    nev erf
    orgi
    ve
    my
    sel
    f
    **
    *hesai
    dtohimsel
    fpacingupanddown
    br
    ushi
    nghisheadandAlphal
    ettestopped
    l
    aughi
    ngandhelookedathim wit
    haf rown*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Gaza
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    tanswerhi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Gazankul
    u??
    ?
    **
    *helookedatAl
    phaandhi
    seyesarenowr
    ed
    asifhewascryi
    ngbuthewasn’
    t*
    **
    Alpha:i
    tsok..
    .calm down.
    ..
    .cal
    lherandaskher
    topinyouherl ocati
    onwhensheget st
    owhere
    she’sgoi
    ngwi thhercoll
    eaguesandwel lt
    akei
    t
    fr
    om there.
    ..
    I’
    l
    l givethel
    ocati
    ontoJavasto
    sendhisboyst okeephersaf e
    *
    **Hecoul
    dnowseehewascal
    mingdown*
    **
    Gaza:
    ok.
    ..
    eish.
    ..
    *
    **her
    ubbedhi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Gaza:Idon’
    twantanyt
    hingbadtohappent
    o
    her
    ..
    ..
    shemeansal ott
    omeNt sako
    ***
    hesaidwit
    haseri
    oustoneandAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    couldseehemeansever
    yword**
    *
    Al
    pha:Iseet
    hat
    ..
    .iguessI
    ’
    llal
    sor
    eactl
    i
    ket
    hat
    i
    fitwasMasai
    ***
    Gazalookedathi
    m wi
    thar
    aisedey
    ebr
    ow
    andAlphachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ihav
    easonandababymama
    Gaza:
    what
    ..
    .noIhav
    en’
    tgonet
    hatl
    ongman
    Al
    pha:
    Iknow
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    *
    Alpha:
    your
    emembertwosomet hi
    ngyear
    s
    backyouwer
    eoutofthecount
    ryandIwentt
    o
    CapeTownwithMpande
    Gaza:y
    eahIremember .
    ..
    .Mpandehadathr
    ee
    somewithsi
    stersandyousmashedsome
    i
    nnocentl
    ookinggi
    rlyoucoul
    dn’
    ttakey
    oureyes
    of
    f
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed.
    ..
    .
    Al
    pha:
    shef
    ell
    pregnant
    Gaza:
    thef
    ..
    ..
    what
    Alpha:
    Istar
    teddr eami
    ngaboutherandababy
    cryi
    ngthenonedaywasgr ocer
    yshoppingandI
    heardababycryingcal
    li
    ngforhi
    sdad..
    ..i
    tur
    ned
    andIalmostdiedofshockbhuti
    Gaza:
    wow
    Alpha:y
    eahman.
    ..hi
    snamei sAl
    phal
    ett
    eKhai
    butIcal
    lhi
    m AJ.
    ..
    Alphal
    ett
    eJuni
    or
    Gaza:
    ofcour
    sey
    ouwi
    l
    l
    *
    **t
    heychuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    damny
    ouar
    eaf
    atherbr
    o
    Alpha:yeahandIlov
    eev er
    yminuteofitandI
    l
    ov ehertoo.
    ..
    thi
    sweekendim goi
    ngt opay
    damagesandmay belobol
    abutim confl
    i
    cted
    wi
    thaski
    nghert
    omar
    ryme
    Gaza:
    youal
    readydat
    ingher
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    stheonemanbut
    ..
    .ei
    sh
    Gaza:
    what
    Al
    pha:t
    here’st
    hegener at
    ional
    cur
    seIneedt
    o
    l
    if
    tandshe’sgonnaleaveIknowitt
    hat’
    swhy
    i
    m conf
    li
    ctedwithaskinghertomarr
    yme
    *
    **Gazashookhi
    shead*
    **
    Gaza:wany
    a..
    ..
    wapengaNt
    sako(
    youar
    ecr
    azy
    Ntsako)
    Gaza:there’
    snogenerat
    ionalcurseyou’re
    obl
    igatedtoli
    ft
    ..
    ..
    wereyoutherewhent hatol
    d
    manr apedthatman’sdaught
    er .
    ..
    .di
    dy ousend
    hi
    m orf or
    cethegir
    ltokil
    lher
    self..
    ..
    hemaybe
    ourancestorbutwewerenott here.
    ..
    Al
    pha:
    youdon’
    tgeti
    t.
    ..
    itmi
    ghtt
    ogooursons
    man
    Gaza:
    Igeti
    tandl
    ett
    hem t
    ryi
    twi
    thoursonsI
    dar
    ethem nxa.
    ..
    .
    ***
    hesaidangryhedidn’
    tunder
    standwhyt
    hey
    choseAlphacausethearemanymalesint
    hei
    r
    famil
    yandextendedfamil
    y**
    *
    Gaza:Iknowsomeonefr
    om ourli
    neageneeds
    tomarryawomanf r
    om t
    hatman’sli
    neageto
    endthecurse.
    ..
    wel
    lf*
    ckthem andt
    heircur
    ses
    nxa
    Al
    pha:
    Gaza
    Gaza:no.
    ..
    letthem dealwi
    ththatrapi
    sti
    nthe
    af
    terl
    i
    feandl eaveyouthef*ckalone
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:you’r
    enotmar r
    yingnowitchdoctors
    daughternomatt erhowbeautifulandinnocent
    l
    ookingshemaybe. ..
    .y
    ougonnamar ryforl
    ove
    notobli
    gati
    on..
    .iknowt heychosey oucause
    theyknowIwasn’ tgonnadoi t
    ..
    ..anita
    baphahlahipel
    epel enamat i
    akuhi sabanya
    nxa(Iwasgonnacommuni catewi t
    hthem
    usi
    ngchi
    l
    li
    esandhotwat
    er)
    *
    **Al
    phal
    aughedshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    theygonnadeal
    wit
    hyouf
    orsay
    ingt
    hat
    Gaza:Idon’tcare..
    ..
    i t
    oucheddeathandit
    rej
    ectedme. .
    .andpl ustheyknowtheyare
    wrongtheyar ejusttooembar r
    assedto
    acknowledget hattheymessedupandt hatt
    hey
    could’
    vedealtwi t
    ht hatalongt
    imeago
    Alpha:wel
    lIdreamtofmyf athersayi
    ngI
    shouldtr
    ustthem..
    ..
    theyhaveapl an
    Gaza:t
    hatplanshoul
    dnoti
    ncludeyoumarry
    anygi
    rlfr
    om thatf
    amil
    yper
    iod..
    .orpel
    epel
    eand
    hotwateri
    tis
    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    elaughedasGazat
    ookhi
    sphone
    andcall
    edTshimo***
    Tshi
    mo:
    heyGeear
    eyouok
    *
    **her
    aisedabr
    ow*
    **
    Gaza:
    Gee
    Tshi
    mo:it
    syournewnicknameandyoudon’
    t
    haveachoi
    cebuttoaccepti
    t.
    ..
    .ar
    eyouok
    **
    *hechuckl
    edshakinghi
    sheadwhil
    eAlpha
    wasreadi
    nghim andfi
    nal
    lyhesawwhathe
    wassuspect
    ingandhesighed*
    **
    Gaza:im notok..
    .igotyourmassage...
    im not
    t
    r y
    ingtocontrolyouorstopyouf r
    om hav i
    ng
    funbut.
    ..j
    ustbecar ef
    ulmama. .
    ..
    im notatease
    withyourouti
    ng..
    ..maybeitsbecauseofwhatI
    wentthrough..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandr
    ubbedhi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Gaza:j
    ustpinmeyourlocat
    ionwhenyouget
    ther
    esoI’
    llknowwheretolooki
    f.
    ..
    somethi
    ng
    badhappenstoyou
    Tshi
    mo:not
    hingbadwill
    happent
    ome.
    ..
    my
    gui
    deswoul
    d’vewarnedmesorel
    ax
    Gaza:somet
    imesancestorsusesomeoneel se
    t
    owar nyou.
    ..
    alwaysrememberthat.
    ..
    .dont
    for
    gettopi
    nmey ourcur
    rentl
    ocat
    ionwheny ou
    gett
    her
    e
    **
    *thenheendedt
    hecal
    landsi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    ng
    hi
    sey es*
    **
    Alpha:what
    ’swr
    ongwi
    thy
    ourey
    es.
    ..
    youkeep
    rubbi
    ngthem
    Gaza:
    theybecomebl
    urr
    yti
    meandagai
    n
    Al
    pha:
    gochangeweneedt
    ogo
    *
    **Gazal
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:
    im notl
    eav
    ingt
    odayNt
    sako.
    ..
    i’
    l
    lbef
    ine
    Al
    pha:
    itcoul
    dbesomet
    hingser
    iousGaza
    Gaza:Isai
    dno.
    ..
    may
    bet
    omor
    rowbutdef
    ini
    tel
    y
    nottoday
    *
    **hesai
    dfi
    rml
    yandAl
    phaj
    ustshookhi
    shead
    l
    ooki
    ngathi
    m***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    --
    HOURSLATER

    HAMMANSKRAAL

    ***Gazaissitt
    inginthel
    oungel ooki
    ngathi
    s
    phone...
    .Al
    phalett
    ejustl
    eftandhe’ssti
    ll
    wait
    ing
    forTshimot osendhim herlocati
    onandshe
    hasn’t.
    ..
    shelongknockedof fatworkandhe’
    s
    wor r
    ied.
    ..
    .
    Gaza:
    “may
    beshef
    orgot
    ”
    *
    **het
    hought
    ***
    Gaza:
    may
    beIshoul
    dcal
    lher
    *
    **hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Gaza:nahIdon’twannal
    ookcreepyand
    cont
    roll
    ing.
    ..
    shewil
    lsendthel
    ocati
    on
    ***
    hesai
    dtohi
    mself.
    ..
    .helookedathi
    sphone
    andpi
    ckedi
    tupthenhelookedatthet
    imeand
    heputi tdownandsatbackont hecouch. .
    ..
    then
    heleanedf orwardandpi ckedhisphoneand
    l
    ookedatt hetimeagai nandputi tbackagai n
    andher ubbedhiseyest r
    yingtocal m himself
    down. .
    ..
    thenhehear dt hegat eopeni ngandhe
    quicklypickedhisphoneandwentt ot hedoor
    andopenedi tandshewasdr ivi
    ngi n..
    .he
    breathedoutf eel
    ingrelieved..
    ..
    thegat eclosed
    andshegotoutwi t
    hgr ocer yshoppi ngbags
    andherhandbag. ..Gazawentt ohel pherwi t
    h
    thebagswi t
    houtthem say i
    ngany thingtoeach
    otherandt heywenti nside...
    ****

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    MASAI(NARRATED)

    *
    **She’
    sont
    hephonewi
    thHi
    l
    ls(
    Shal
    ate)
    ***
    Masai
    :i
    mtel
    l
    ingy
    ousi
    s..
    ..
    Moer
    ajustswi
    tched
    uponme
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whathappened.
    ..
    didy
    out
    wof
    ight
    Masai:notthatIremember..
    ..
    thelastt
    imewe
    werecool i
    twaswhenIaskedhert odropoff
    Khaiathisfather
    ’shouseandt hi
    ngschanged
    fr
    om there.
    ..
    .mxm oooh..
    ..
    *
    **sher
    emember
    edsomet
    hing*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    what
    Masai
    :sheembarr
    assedAl
    phal
    ett
    e’sbr
    other
    andPhal
    ett
    eputheri
    nherpl
    ace
    Hil
    l
    s:sowhyar
    eyoucat
    chingst
    raybul
    l
    ets
    now..
    ..
    whyi
    sshemadatyou
    Masai
    :Idon’
    tknowsi
    s..
    ..
    may
    bebecausehe’
    s
    myman
    Hi
    ll
    s:wahlany
    aMoera(Moerai
    scr
    azy).
    ..
    .dont
    wor
    ryI’
    ll
    tal
    ktoherpl
    usi
    m comi
    ngthatsi
    de
    t
    omorrow
    Masai
    :youser
    ious
    *
    **shesai
    dsoundi
    ngexci
    tedandHi
    l
    ls
    l
    aughed**
    *
    Hil
    ls:
    yep..
    .icantputmyli
    feonholdbecauseof
    aman. .
    ..
    amant hatisenj
    oyi
    nghisli
    fewit
    hhis
    babymama
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hil
    ls:
    im gonnaserv
    ehim wi
    thdi
    vor
    ce
    papers.
    ..
    im doneMasa
    Masai:youknowIsupportwhateverdeci
    sion
    youmakesoi fyouwanttodivorcethendivor
    ce
    i
    tis.
    ..
    .iknowyouthoughtaboutitt
    horoughlyso
    dowhaty ougot
    tado
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hil
    ls:yeahcausepol
    ygamy.
    ..
    yhoaahehhIjust
    cant.
    ..
    .icantshar
    eaman..
    ..
    ij
    ustcant
    ..
    .idon’
    t
    haveitinmeMasa
    Masai
    :sameher
    esi
    s..
    .idon’
    twantst
    ress.
    ..
    you
    knowmyLupusmi ghtf
    lar
    eupandIendup
    l
    osingmyl i
    fe..
    .mysonisstilly
    oung..
    ..i
    m sti
    ll
    youngsoaf t
    erStevensItoldmy sel
    fthatim
    alwaysgonnar emovemy selffr
    om stressf
    ul
    sit
    uat
    ions..
    ..
    that’
    swhyim mov ingoutof
    Moera’sapartment..
    .
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wai
    tami
    nut
    e..
    .y
    ouwhat
    Masai:Icantl
    ivewit
    hherany moreHills.
    ..
    .she
    nowbr i
    ngsmeni ntheapart
    mentandwhenI
    confr
    ontedhershewasr udetome. .
    ..
    shehas
    thi
    srudeatti
    tudetowar
    dsmet hatIdon’t
    underst
    andandIjustcantstandit.
    ..
    .ineedt o
    prot
    ectmypeaceatal lcost
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:I
    ’
    lltal
    kt oherIpr
    omi
    se.
    ..
    .i
    ’
    llf
    indoutwhat
    t
    heactualprobl
    em is
    Masai
    :thanky
    ou
    Hi
    l
    ls;
    noneedt
    othankme.
    ..
    wear
    esi
    ster
    s
    ***wel
    ltheyspokesomemor ethent
    heyended
    thecal
    l.
    ...
    herphonerecei
    vedamessageandit
    wasAlphalett
    e..
    .shesmil
    edshy
    lyasshe
    openeditandreadit***
    Alpha:
    ‘i
    m abouttoleav
    emyplacet
    ocomepi
    ck
    youandAJup. .
    ..
    ineedyou!
    ’
    **
    *itr
    ead.
    ..
    .shefrownedbecausesomet
    hing
    wasoffwi
    thi t
    ***
    Masai
    :‘ar
    eyouok.
    ..
    what
    ’swr
    ong’
    Al
    pha:
    ‘mybr
    othert
    heonet
    hatdi
    sappear
    edi
    s
    al
    i
    veandhe’
    snotok’
    *
    **shequi
    ckl
    ycal
    l
    edhi
    m andheanswer
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    hey
    Masai:
    oohmygoshIcantbel
    i
    evei
    t.
    ..
    .y
    oumust
    berel
    i
    evedbaby
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:happyandrel
    ievedyeahbut.
    ..
    .hewent
    throughsomet er
    ri
    fyi
    ngstuffandIwonderi
    f
    he’
    l
    lev
    erheal
    Masai
    :ohhGod.
    ..
    .whatcanIdobabe
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ineedy
    ou
    Masai
    :l
    etmepack.
    ..
    dri
    vesaf
    elyok
    Al
    pha:
    ok.
    ..Il
    ovey
    ou
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    ***
    hedroppedthecal
    landshestoodupt
    ogo
    packandthedooropened.
    ..
    .i
    ncameMoera*
    **
    Moer
    a:hi
    Masai
    :hi
    ***
    shewalkedt
    oherr
    oom andMoer
    acl
    ear
    ed
    herthr
    oat**
    *
    Moera:afri
    endofminewho’
    sapropert
    yagent
    sai
    dy ou’
    rel
    ooki
    ngforanapar
    tmenttobuy
    **
    * Masaist
    oppedwalki
    ngandshecl
    osedher
    eyesforasecthensheopenedt
    hem and
    t
    urnedt
    olookather
    ***
    Masai
    :yeahIt
    hinki
    tst
    imeIl
    i
    vedal
    onewi
    thmy
    son
    *
    **Moer
    alaughedmov
    ingcl
    osert
    oher*
    **
    Moera:kaet
    lhomphapi
    piy
    alechanganey
    ho(I
    r
    espectaShangaan’
    sd*
    ckyho)
    Masai
    :cany
    ouj
    ustst
    opMoer
    a!
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thanangr
    yvoi
    ce*
    **
    Masai:what’
    swr ongwithyou..
    ..
    whatdi
    didot
    o
    youmar aheh.
    ..andyeskaer at
    apipiya
    l
    echanganeneor eng(andyesIdolovea
    Shangaan’
    sd* ckso)
    *
    **Moer
    alaughedcl
    appi
    ngherhands*
    **
    Moera:y
    ouknowwhatwhat ev
    er..
    ..
    he’sgonna
    l
    eaveyouli
    ketheyal waysdo..
    ..
    whowoul dwant
    tocommittosomeoneasweakasy ou.
    ..
    .y
    ou
    mightdi
    eanymi nute..
    ..
    remembery ouli
    veon
    borr
    owedti
    mel ala
    ***
    Masaisl
    appedherhar
    donhercheekt
    hat
    shesawstar
    sforafewsecond*
    **
    Masai:
    f*cky
    ouMoer
    a..
    .y
    oucangot
    ohel
    lfor
    al
    lIcar
    enxa
    ***assheattempt edtowalkawaywithtear
    sin
    herey esMoer agrabbedherbyhergown
    tur
    ningherar oundandshepunchedMasai on
    herfaceknocki ngherouti
    nstant
    lyandshehit
    thefloorhar
    d* * *
    Moera:
    youslappedmeMasai
    ..
    ..
    youhav
    ethe
    gut
    stoslapmenow...
    meMoera!
    !!
    **
    *sheshoutedatanunconsci
    ousMasaiwit
    h
    bl
    oodcomingoutofhernoseandshefroze
    wit
    hherheartbeat
    ingf
    astasshesawthatshe
    wasn’
    tmov i
    ng***
    Moer
    a:oohmyGodwhathav
    eIdone.
    ..
    .
    .
    .
    .

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    ..
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER17
    .
    .
    .
    ATTSHI
    MO’
    SPLACE

    Gaza:
    youdi
    dn’
    tgo
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    yeah
    Gaza:
    why
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    n..
    .t
    heyar
    epacki
    nggr
    ocer
    ies
    i
    nthecupboar
    ds**
    *
    Tshi
    mo: Iunderstoodwhaty ousaid.
    ..
    .whenit
    comestomygi ftormyspi ri
    tuali
    tyIt
    akeany
    advi
    ceormassageser i
    ouslyIdon’tj
    ustcastit
    awayjustli
    kethat..
    .ianalyz
    ei tandconnectwith
    myguidesandaskt hem togi vemeasi gn..
    .
    andplusIwasn’tfeelingtheout i
    nganyways..
    ..I
    j
    ustwantedt ofi
    tinnj e
    Gaza:youdon’
    tneedt
    ofiti
    nmama...
    .you’
    re
    per
    fectthewayyouar
    e..
    .t
    rustmeonthat
    Tshi
    mo:y
    ou’
    rej
    ustsay
    ingt
    hatt
    omakemef
    eel
    bett
    er
    *
    **shesai
    drol
    l
    ingherey
    es*
    **
    Gaza:i
    mtell
    ingyouthetr
    uthmama.
    ..nev
    er
    gi
    veintopeerpr
    essure
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ithi
    nki
    m ki
    ndaj
    eal
    ousofher
    *
    **shesai
    dpout
    ingandGazaf
    rowned*
    **
    Gaza:
    jeal
    ousofwho
    Tshi
    mo: mycoll
    eague.
    ..
    .t
    heonet hatorgani
    zed
    theouti
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    shegotengagedyesterdayand
    shewantedtogooutandcelebrateher
    engagement
    Gaza:
    soy
    ou’
    rej
    eal
    ousoft
    hat
    *
    **hewasconf
    used*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:notthat..
    ..
    she’
    sget
    tingmar
    ri
    edGee
    andI’
    vebeensingl
    eformonths
    Gaza:
    so
    Tshi
    mo: don’
    tsayso. .
    ..
    .ipr
    obablyhav easpider
    webdownt here..
    ..
    .i
    maginecutti
    ngt hegrassall
    thedamnt i
    meandnogamei sev erplay
    edthere
    mxm. .
    .maybeIshouldjustlett
    hegr assgrow
    andaf or
    estisformedcausegwat shwanamos
    *
    **Gazal
    ookedatherwi
    thashockedl
    ook*
    **
    Tshi
    mo: somegi rlsareluckyshem...
    .thr
    ee
    monthsintoar elat
    ionshipandshe’s
    engaged.
    ..may besheusedmakhananav i
    sta
    mxm. .
    .makhananav i
    staornotshe’slucky
    shem andIwi shherwel li
    nhersoont obe
    marri
    agebecauset hat’
    sallsomeofusar e
    goodat..
    .wishingtheluckyoneswel li
    ntheir
    marri
    ageswhi lerelemaf etwa.
    ..
    .l
    if
    eisunf ai
    r
    yho
    *
    **Gazaj
    ustshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Gaza: marr
    iageisov er
    rat
    edmama. .
    ..wel
    l some
    aregoodbutsomenotsogood. ..i
    fy ou’
    rel ucky
    youmi ghtendupwi thagoodpar tnerandl i
    ve
    happilywit
    hchallengeshereandt her eofcour se
    butifnotyou’l
    ll
    iveinhellandifthathappens
    i
    t’seit
    heryouleav ewil
    li
    nglyorutlelehi t
    lhelor a
    wenar alendzhakuandeni kaboki si(orl ayi
    ng
    ony ourbackinacof fi
    n)sodon’tjustwanna
    marrycauseev eryoneisdoingitory out hink
    yourtimeisrunningout..
    ..
    gwany iwa(i tsbad)
    outtheremama..
    ..
    abant
    ubayagowi
    sha
    (peoplearegoi
    ngthr
    ought
    hemost)
    *
    **Tshi
    mol
    aughedatt
    hel
    astpar
    t**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:mxm say
    samar
    ri
    edman
    *
    **Gazakeptqui
    et*
    **
    Tshimo: youknowmyl astrel
    ati
    onshi
    pwas
    wit
    haguyIt houghtwasabachel oronl
    ytof
    ind
    outthathe’sactual
    lymarriedwit
    hkidsandt
    he
    wif
    ewaspr egnantalso.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shel
    aughedr
    emember
    ingev
    ery
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:t hef
    ool ev
    enboughtafull
    yfur
    nished
    apar
    tmentinKarenParkwhereIusedtovisi
    t
    hi
    mj ustt
    ocoverforhi
    sli
    es.
    ..
    .sat
    annxa!
    *
    **Gazaf
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngather*
    **
    Tshimo:
    hewouldli
    eandsayhe’sgoi
    ngona
    busi
    nesstr
    ipkhant
    enopesephi
    nyasel
    a(that
    far
    t)wasgoinghometohi
    swi f
    e
    Gaza:
    Ihopey
    ouwal
    kedawaymama
    *
    **shesi
    ghedsi
    tt
    ingdownont
    hebar
    stool
    ***
    Tshi
    mo: Iev
    entual
    lydi
    dbutIlovedhi
    m Geeso
    muchIsawaf uturewi
    thhi
    m....
    heeventri
    edto
    conv
    incemet ostaybysay
    inghe’sgonna
    di
    vorceheraft
    ershegiv
    esbir
    thblahblahblah
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Tshimo:Iwasnaï
    veGee...
    .damnistayed.
    ..
    ifeel
    l
    ikeafoolnowthatIt
    hinkabouti
    t..
    .ist
    ayed
    causeIwasdesperat
    e..
    ..
    andthef
    unnyt hi
    ngisI
    sti
    l
    lam
    *
    **shel
    aughedwi
    tht
    ear
    sinherey
    es*
    **
    Tshimo: i
    m desper
    ateforaf ami l
    yofmyown
    causei mlonel
    yIhavenoone. ...i
    t’
    sjust
    me...
    ...
    GeeIhurtanotherwomanbydat i
    ngher
    husband, ev
    enthoughIdidn’tknowatf i
    rstbutI
    eventuall
    ydidandIchoset ostayr egar
    dless
    becauseofdesperati
    on...
    ..Ievenlostcont act
    withmygui desbecauseIchoset ostaywith
    thatkindofmanandhur tanotherwoman
    **
    * Tear
    srandownhercheeksandshequi
    ckl
    y
    wipedthem***
    Tshi mo: theypunishedmeGee. ...
    everythingin
    myl i
    fewasf al
    li
    ngapart..
    ..Ionceev engota
    verbal war ni
    ngatmyol djobf r
    om myboss
    becauseIusedt oskipwor kandcr ymy selfto
    depr essionwhenhewentt ov isithiswi f
    e...
    .unti
    l
    onedayIhadadr eam ofmymot herandshe
    wasl i
    vi
    d...shescoldedmei nt hatdr eam, she
    saidshe’ sgonnat akemet ocomeandj oinher
    sincei mf ail
    ingmy sel
    finthel andoft he
    l
    iving...
    .shewasl ivi
    d,I
    ’venev erseenherl ike
    thatwhenshewasst i
    llal
    ive..
    ..irememberI
    wokeupsweat i
    ngandshaki ngandaf terthatI
    wal kedawayandIhav ebeensi nglesince. .
    .
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    whydoyousayyou’
    rel
    onely
    ..
    .don’
    tyou
    havef
    ami
    lymembers.
    ..
    cousi
    ns.
    ..
    auntsandso
    on
    Tshimo: theydon’ tli
    keme. .
    ..t
    heynev ereven
    l
    ikedmymot herandbr othersoim all
    alone..
    .andi mtalkingabouthersi stersand
    brothersandev enmygr andparents..
    ..
    idon’t
    knowwhyev ent oday..
    .theyjustneverhidthat
    theydon’tlikeus, theytreatedusdi ff
    erentl
    yand
    theystil
    ltreatmel i
    ketrashev entoday .
    ..
    mom
    knewwhybutshenev ert ol
    dme. .
    ..whenI
    askedhershewoul dgetsadandt hatwill
    just
    messupt her estofherdaysoIst oppedaski ng
    *
    **sheshr
    ughershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Gaza:wellnotanymore.
    ..
    .y
    ouhav emeandmy
    br
    others.
    ..
    ..f
    rom her
    eonwar dsneverf
    eel
    lonel
    y
    whenim stil
    lal
    ivemamaok
    ***
    shelookedathi
    m wi
    tht
    ear
    sinherey
    esand
    shenodded***
    Tshi
    mo:
    thanky
    ou
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thabr
    eaki
    ngv
    oice*
    **
    Gaza:
    youdon’
    tneedt
    othankme.
    ..
    ..
    alway
    s
    remember ..
    .bl
    oodmakesy ourel
    atedbutl oy
    alt
    y
    makesy ouf amil
    y.
    ..
    .anyoneespeci al
    lythose
    thatyoushar ebl
    oodr elat
    ionswit
    h, i
    ftheyare
    notloyaltoyoutheyar enotyourfamilythey
    j
    ustr el
    atedtoyoubybl ood
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Gaza:andim notl
    eavi
    ngforgood..
    ..
    ij
    ustneed
    toseemysonandf at
    herandcheckonmy
    busi
    nesses..
    ..
    wewillt
    alkovert
    hephoneand
    evenvideoal
    lever
    yday
    *
    **t
    earsrandownhercheeksandshewi
    ped
    t
    hem off
    ***
    Gaza:you’
    repar
    tofmyl
    i
    fenowmama.
    ..
    .bet
    ter
    getusedtoitok
    ***
    shenoddedwipi
    nghertearsof
    fandhe
    pul
    ledherupandhehuggedherti
    ghtandshe
    wrappedherar
    msaroundhiswaistandr
    ested
    herheadonhisl
    owerchest*
    **
    Gaza:
    Ical
    l
    edNt
    sakot
    odayandhecame
    ***
    shetr
    iedtogetoutofhi
    shol
    dtol
    ookathi
    m
    buthedi
    dn’tl
    ether
    ***
    Gaza:t
    omor r
    owImightbeleav
    ingwit
    hhim but
    I
    ’l
    lbeback..
    ..
    iwon’
    tgobacktoBushbuckr
    idge
    wit
    houtseei
    ngyou
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandsi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    ok
    Gaza:i
    m notl
    eav
    ingy
    oual
    onemama.
    ..
    .y
    ouar
    e
    apartofmeok
    ***
    shenoddedandheki
    ssedheront
    opofher
    head*
    **

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATMASAIANDMOERA’
    SAPARTMENT

    *
    **Moer
    aisbusypaci
    ngupanddowncr
    ying
    andt ryingt ofindasolutiontothepr oblem she
    created. .
    .shelookeddownathert winwhowas
    sti
    llpassedoutont hefloorbleedingwor separt
    Alphalet tehasbeencal li
    ngMasai forsome
    ti
    menowandshel etthephoner i
    ngt o
    voicemai l
    ...
    .Shequicklymov edthet ablethat’
    s
    ont hel oungematandputi tontopofacouch
    thenshegr abbedherlegsandpul l
    edheront op
    ofthel oungematandwentt ofindaseal t
    ape
    andwr appedherwi ththeloungematt henshe
    putt het apear oundtheloungematandshesat
    downont hefl
    oorandl ookedatt heloungemat
    whileshaki ngandsobbi ng***
    Moera:i
    m sor
    rybut
    ..
    ..
    youcan’
    thav
    eital
    l
    ...
    you
    can’
    t.
    ..
    .il
    ovey
    oubutyoucan’t
    ***
    shesni
    ff
    edandsobbedforsomet
    imethen
    shepi
    ckedherphoneandmadeacal
    l
    ***
    Dr
    ench:
    thi
    sisani
    cesur
    pri
    se
    *
    **hesai
    dsoundi
    nghappyt
    hatshecal
    l
    ed
    hi
    m**
    *
    Moer
    a:hel
    pmeDr
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Dr
    ench:
    sh*
    tummm.
    ..
    wher
    ear
    eyou
    *
    **shehear
    dsomeshuf
    fl
    ingf
    rom hi
    ssi
    de*
    **
    Moer
    a:It
    hinkIki
    l
    ledher
    **
    *theshuffl
    ingstoppedasshesai
    dthatina
    whispershakingwit
    htearsal
    lov
    erherface*
    **
    Dr
    ench:
    kil
    l
    edwho
    Moera:Masai.
    ..
    .mytwin..
    ..
    iswearDr
    eIdi
    dn’
    t
    meant oIswear.
    ..
    sheslappedmeandI
    punchedherIthi
    nktoohar d
    Drench:
    sh*
    tok.
    ..
    cal
    m down.
    ..
    .di
    dyoucheckher
    pulse
    *
    **sheshookherheadnol
    i
    kehecanseeher
    ***
    Dr
    ench:
    Moer
    a!!
    Moer
    a:no
    Drench:
    checkherpul
    seandwe’
    l
    ltakei
    tfr
    om
    t
    here
    Moer
    a:Ial
    readywr
    appedherupwi
    tht
    hel
    ounge
    mat
    Drench:wi
    thoutchecki
    ngherpul
    sef
    ir
    stMoar
    e
    youkiddi
    ngme! !
    !
    Moer
    a:Ipani
    ckedok
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Drench:she’
    sy ourt
    winMonotsomer andom
    person.
    ..
    .unwrapherandcheckherpulseandi f
    she’sal
    ivecallanambul
    anceandifnotst ayput
    someonewi ll
    comeandt akecar
    eoft hebody
    *
    **shecr
    ied*
    **
    Moer
    a:Idi
    dn’
    tmeant
    oki
    l
    lher
    Drench:youdon’
    tknowi
    fshe’
    sdeadornot
    ..
    ..
    do
    asItell
    you..
    .now
    Moer
    a:ok
    Dr
    ench:
    Moer
    anowanddon’
    tdr
    opt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    shegotupandwentt ogetaknifeandshe
    cutthesealt
    apeandunwrappeditaroundthe
    l
    oungematandal sounrol
    l
    edthematandshe
    l
    ookedatMasai..
    .shesl
    owlywentcloserand
    checkedherpul
    seanditwasther
    e* **
    Moera:oohmyGosh..
    .Dreshe’
    sstil
    lal
    i
    ve..
    .what
    i
    fshetell
    sonmeDr e.
    ..
    ican’
    thavethat
    ..
    ..
    they’
    ll
    hat
    eme. .
    ..
    shecan’
    tal
    way swinDreshecan’t
    Drench:heyhey !
    !!That’
    syourf*ckentwin
    Moera. .
    ..
    thesweetgi rl
    youalwayspr ot
    ected
    fr
    om har m’ swayandnowy ouwannaend
    her.
    ..
    .arey ououtofy ourf*
    ckenmi nd!!
    !.
    ..
    .Now
    getri
    doft hesealtapeandcallanambul ance
    andst oppi ssi
    ngmeof f
    *
    **shesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Drench:yousai
    dsheslappedy oufir
    stsoyou
    weredefendi
    ngy our
    sel
    f.
    ..
    .Alextr
    ainedyouso
    yourpunchisnotanormal woman’spunchso
    cal
    lanambul
    anceandgeti
    ttoget
    herf
    orf
    *cks
    sake
    ***shegotupwentt odisposeoft heseal t
    ape
    andshecamebackandt ookherphoneand
    droppedthecallandshecal l
    edanambul ance
    andsattherelookingatMasai unconsciouson
    topoftheloungemat .
    ..
    mi nut
    esl at
    ersheheard
    aknockont hedoorandshequi cklygotupand
    wenttoopent hi
    nkingit
    ’sthepar amedicsbut
    shegottheshockofherl ife***
    Alpha:
    isev
    ery
    thi
    ngok.
    ..
    .wher
    e’sMasai
    andmy
    son
    ***hesaidfr
    owni nglooki
    ngathermessedup
    face.
    ..hewasbr eat
    hingheav i
    lycauseonhis
    wayher ehestartedhavingabadf eeli
    ng.
    ..
    he
    evencalledGazaandMpandet otell
    them t
    obe
    safeandwhenhi smindwentt oMasaihe
    thoughtmay beitsherLupusact i
    ngupagainso
    hedr oveher
    elikeamani ac*
    **
    Moer
    a:she.
    ..
    .ummm
    **
    *shesaidshakingandhepushedheroutof
    t
    hewayandr ushedinandwhathesawwasl i
    ke
    ablowtothechestforhi
    m...
    .herushedtoher
    wit
    hhishandsshakingnotbeli
    evingwhathe
    wasseei
    ng***
    Al
    pha:
    baby
    ..
    .Mamakhe.
    ..
    ***
    hesaidhit
    ti
    nghercheekgentl
    ywithhis
    shaki
    nghandsandshedidn’
    tmov e.
    ..
    he
    checkedherpul
    seanditwastherebutnow
    weak***
    Moer
    a:I
    ..
    .ical
    l
    edanambul
    ancei
    tsoni
    tsway
    ***shesaidshaki
    ngandAl phalookedather
    bri
    eflysotoaskherwhathappenedandhi s
    eyescaughtt hebruisesonherrighthand
    knuckles..
    ..
    .hecl
    enchedhisjawsand
    concentratedonMasaiwi t
    hhismi ndrunni
    ng
    wil
    d* **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    ..
    .babyopeny
    ourey
    espl
    ease
    ***stil
    lnot hing....ri
    ghtthent heyhear daknock
    andMoer awentt oopenandi twast he
    paramedi cs...
    .theyr ushedt oMasai andAlpha
    mov edawaysot heygetbusywi thher..
    ..
    he
    l
    ookedar oundt hel oungeandhecoul dsee
    wher eshef ellandi tlookedl i
    keshewas
    draggedt ot hecar pet..
    ..hesawt hetableont op
    ofthecouchandwhenhel ookeddownhi sey es
    caughtakni feont hecar petandhewentt oit
    ast hePar amedi cswer ebusywi thMasai and
    al
    soaski ngquest i
    onst oMoer awhowascr yi
    ng
    unabl etot ellthem whatact uallyhappenbut
    shecoul danswerwhent heyaskedherwhet her
    ornotshehasamedi cal aidori fshehasany
    chronicdi seases. .
    ..het ookouthi s
    handker chi efandpi ckedi tupandhecoul dsee
    asmal lseal tapeoni tthenhet urnedtoMoer a
    whohadherey espoppedoutl ookingathi m
    andwhathe’ shol ding***
    Par
    amedi
    c:y
    ou’
    l
    lri
    dewi
    thusorf
    oll
    owus
    *
    **t
    heyaskedMoer
    a**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    sri
    dingwi
    thy
    ou
    ***t
    heyl ookedathimt henatMoer aandthey
    pushedt hest r
    etcheroutsidewherepeople
    wherewat chi
    ngandwhi sper i
    ngaskingeach
    otherwhathappenedwhi l
    eMoer afoll
    owedthe
    paramedi cstotheambul ance...
    .Al
    phawentto
    Masai’sbedr oom andpickedi nsi
    deandhisson
    wassl eepingpeacefull
    yt henhewentbackt o
    theloungeandt ookouthi sphoneandmadea
    call
    ***
    Voi
    ce:don’
    ttel
    lmeyou’
    recancel
    l
    ingyourv
    isi
    t
    wit
    hyourpeopl
    efort
    hisSatur
    dayboy
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    noi m notma.
    ..
    ..
    im cal
    l
    ingcause
    something.
    ..
    badhappened
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etandhermindwentt
    othebad
    f
    eeli
    ngshehadearli
    eron*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    aremybabi
    esok
    *
    **shesai
    dinawhi
    spert
    one*
    **
    Alpha:Masai
    ..
    .if
    oundherbr
    uised,
    bleedi
    ngand
    unconsci
    ouswithMoera
    *
    **Dor
    iskeptqui
    et*
    **
    Dori
    s:obatl
    agonthaorengmosi
    mane(what
    ar
    ey ouact
    uall
    ytr
    yingt
    osayt
    omeboy)
    Alpha: Idon’
    tknowwhathappened. .
    ..Igothere
    andIf oundMoer awi thtear
    sal lov
    erherf ace
    and...
    .Ipushedmy selfi
    nandIf oundMasai
    bruised,bleedingandunconsci ousont opof
    thecar pet.
    ..
    itl
    ookslikeshewasdr aggedt othe
    carpet...
    .Moeraalsohasbr uisedknuckl es..
    ..
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thacal
    mvoi
    cebuthewasf
    umi
    ng
    i
    nsi
    de***
    Alpha:Ial
    sofoundaknifeonthecarpetwi
    th
    smallsealt
    apeonit.
    ..
    ..
    idon’
    tknowwhat
    happenedherebutdealwit
    hitbefor
    eIdoma
    causeifIdokut akunuheni xi
    dumbu
    kungafangimunu(y ou’
    ll
    smel ladeadper son’
    s
    bodywher ethere’
    snone).
    ..
    .shewast akento
    thehospital
    I’
    llkeepyouupdateduntilyouget
    hereoryoucancal ly
    our.
    ..
    .otherdaughter
    ***thenhedr oppedt hecall
    looki
    ngangr y .
    ..
    .he
    wentt othekitchenandopenedt hedustbinand
    foundt herestoft heusedsealtapeandhe
    closedhi seyesthenopenedt hem. .
    ..
    hef ounda
    shoppi ngbagandhepi ckedtheusedseal t
    ape
    andputi tinsi
    deandhewentt ot akethekni fe
    too...
    .helookedatt heloungematandy ou
    couldseei twasj ustrol
    ledoverandunr oll
    ed
    again..
    .heclenchedhi sjawswithhishands
    shakingandhewentt oMasai’sbedroom t o
    takehisson* **

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL
    ***Alphalettewal kedi nholdinghissl eepingson
    andhef oundMoer asitti
    ngint heemer gency
    sit
    tingroom st aringi ntospace. .
    ..
    hesatdown
    andl ookedatherr eadi ngher .
    ..
    .hewi shedhe
    couldst rangleherunt i
    lshet ookherl ast
    breath..
    ..hersightmadehi mf eelsicktot he
    stomach. .
    .hechuckl edshaki nghisheadr ight
    thenhehear dMpande’ svoiceandMpande
    rushedt oAl phalettelookingwor r
    ied* **
    Mpande:
    howi
    sshe
    Al
    pha:
    Ijustgother
    e..
    .whydon’
    tyouaskher
    **
    *helookedoverandsawMoer alooki
    ngnot
    sogood..
    .hewenttoherandsatnexttoher
    ***
    Mpande:
    howi
    sshe
    *
    **sheshr
    ughershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Moer
    a:t
    heyar
    est
    il
    lbusywi
    thher
    *
    **shesai
    dinawhi
    spert
    one*
    **
    Mpande:
    don’
    twor
    ryuzobar
    ightok
    *
    **shenoddedwi
    pinghert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whyMoer
    a
    *
    **hecoul
    dn’
    thol
    dhi
    msel
    f..
    ..
    hewasangr
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whatdi
    dshedot
    oyou
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Mpande:
    Alphi
    ezi
    khi
    phani
    (Al
    phi
    ewhat
    ’s
    goi
    ngon)
    Al
    pha:
    thi
    sbi
    tchat
    tackedMasai
    ..
    ..
    herownt
    win
    Mpande:
    heh
    ***
    hesaidshockedandhemov edawayf r
    om
    Moerawhor ol
    l
    edherey eslucki
    lytheydi
    dn’t
    seehercauseshe’
    slookingaway *
    * *
    Al
    pha:
    andIwannaknowwhy
    Mpande:
    shedi
    dwhat
    Al
    pha:
    Isai
    dwhydamni
    t!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dwithanangryvoi
    ceandMoer
    a
    l
    ookedathi
    m str
    aighti
    ntheey
    es**
    *
    Moera:t
    hat’
    sbetweenmeandhersostayout
    ofourbusi
    nessandplusshesl
    appedmefi
    rst
    andIwasdefendi
    ngmy sel
    f
    *
    **Alphal
    ettechuckl
    edpi
    ssedtothecor
    ewhi
    l
    e
    MpandelookedatMoerashockedandhe
    movedfurt
    herawayfrom her
    ***
    Mpande: hehimohl
    olo.
    ..
    .asweetgi
    rl
    disappearedandHel
    gasurfacednj
    alonj
    e(just
    l
    ikethat)..
    ..
    what‘
    scookingaft
    erbaki
    ngla
    Alphie
    Al
    pha:Mpandemeetthereal
    Moera.
    ..
    .t
    he
    j
    eal
    ous,env
    ious,
    pret
    enti
    ousandevi
    lMoera
    ***
    shehuffedandl
    ookedawaywi
    thherchest
    goingupanddown***
    Alpha:t
    hatdaysheembarr
    assedyou..
    ..
    iwal
    ked
    heroutandtol
    dherwheretogetoffandIt
    hink
    that’
    swhereever
    ythi
    ngst
    artedr
    ightMo
    Mpande:
    what
    ’st
    hisal
    laboutAl
    phi
    e
    Alpha:thi
    sthinghasacr ushonmeorshej ust
    enviesMasai causeMasai usedtotell
    met hat
    she’sroot
    ingf orust
    obeacoupl esoIthinkI t
    ’s
    mor eofenvyt hanacrush..
    .whydoy outhink
    shewasaski ngy ouaboutmei nsteadthatday
    **
    *Mpandekeptqui
    ett
    hinki
    ngt
    henhecl
    enched
    hi
    sjaws*
    **
    Alpha: Masai hasal way sbeent heweakone
    betweent hem, wel l
    that’swhatshe
    thought .
    ..
    .whil
    et hisbi t
    chwasal waysthe
    protector.
    ...t
    hef ighter..
    ..
    theirpi l
    l
    arof
    strength..
    ..
    shel ovest heat tentionandtopl ay
    heroine,tobeneededandpr aised..
    ..
    Masai
    trustedherandt hatmadeherf eeli
    mpor t
    ant
    andsuper i
    ortoher .
    ..
    .Masai al
    way sneededher
    andshef edof fthatunt i
    l Icameandt ookov er
    thenshest ar
    tedf eelingusel essandnotneeded
    ....
    andr i
    ghtthent hat’
    swhent hebeastcame
    outandshest art
    edgi v
    ingMasaanat ti
    tudeand
    showi nghert ruecol ours
    *
    **Mpandel
    ookedatMoer
    awi
    thaf
    rownonhi
    s
    f
    ace*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    am Il
    yi
    ngMo
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Alpha:wher
    ewer ey ougoingtodumpher ..
    ..I
    sawt hekni
    feandt hetapeandal sonoti
    cedthe
    l
    oungematwasr olledup.
    ...
    didyouroll
    herup
    anddecidedotherwisebeforeyoucouldgoand
    dumphersomewher e
    Mpande:Al
    phaut
    hini
    manj
    e..
    ..(
    Alphawhatar
    e
    yousayi
    ngnow)y
    oumeanshewant edt
    oget
    r
    idofevi
    dence
    Alpha:st
    oppretendingMoeraIknowandsee
    therealy
    ou..
    ..showy ourt
    ruesel
    fandstop
    givi
    ngoutthi
    scar i
    ngpersonthat
    ’snoty
    ouand
    youknowi t
    Moera:
    F*CKYOU.
    ..
    .ANDGOTOHELL!!
    !.
    ..
    ..
    .I
    TS
    ALLYOURFAULTALLOFIT.
    ..
    .YOUWERENOT
    SUPPOSEDTOLOVEHER NXA
    ***
    shesai dgett
    inguproughl
    ywakingup
    AJ..
    ..heopenedhiseyesandwhenhesawhis
    fat
    herhesmi ledbri
    efl
    yandsleept
    ookover
    again***
    Mpande:ubi
    pol
    arl
    o(t
    hisonei
    sbi
    pol
    ar)
    Moera:
    bipol
    arkemmaonx
    a(bi
    pol
    ari
    syour
    mother
    )
    *
    **andshewal
    kedaway
    ***
    Mpande:at
    hiumawenzanil
    o(whatdi
    dshe
    sayaboutmymother
    )
    ***
    Heaskedgett
    ingupandAl
    phal
    ett
    ebreat
    hed
    outcal
    mingdownandheshookhi
    shead***
    Al
    pha:
    lethergoshe’
    snotwor
    thi
    tman
    *
    **Mpandesatdownagai
    nandt
    heykeptqui
    et
    *
    **
    Mpande:
    didwhatj
    usthappened.
    ..
    justhappen
    *
    **heaskedst
    il
    lshocked*
    **
    Alpha:f
    *ck.
    ..
    .itki
    l
    lsmeinsidethatIcan’
    tdo
    anythi
    ngtothatbit
    chcauseitwil
    lhurtMasai
    andmysoont obei nl
    aws..
    ...
    yesesmmmmh
    *
    **hesai
    dcl
    enchi
    nghi
    sjaws*
    **
    Mpande:
    oki
    tdi
    dhappen
    *
    **hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    fandhel
    ookeddown
    t
    hinki
    nghar
    d**
    *

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATDORI
    S’SHOUSE

    *
    **she’
    scr
    yingandVeei
    sconsol
    i
    ngher
    ***
    Dori
    s:Ishoul
    d’v
    edonesomethingbackthen
    Vee.
    ..
    ..
    ishoul
    d’vedonesomethi
    ngbackthen
    whenAuntMar i
    atoldmeaboutwhathappened
    tomaandauntMasi andt
    hecurse
    Vee: youdidn’tknowt hecurseonlyhappenst o
    twingi r
    lsonly.
    ..
    thatsangomadi dn’
    ttel
    lyou
    that.
    ..youthoughtsinceitdi
    dn’taff
    ectyouand
    yourt winsist
    erandy oucleanseditended
    there..
    ..Leyenaler*
    tenyanalagagwel agoj ewa
    kedi bokonxa...
    .whatkindofasangomai she
    thatmi ssessuchaser i
    ousandlif
    ethreatening
    detail
    Dori
    s:whydidmamadot hist
    ousmara.
    ..
    .and
    AuntMasiwhydidshecursemamal
    ikethat.
    ..
    di
    dn’tshet
    hinkofus
    Vee: shewasangr yanddyingandy ourmot her
    didn’tevenshowanyr emorsetowhatshe
    did.
    ..howcany ougiveyourtwinslowpoi sonall
    foraman. .
    .l
    ikeshekill
    edhim slowlyasshe
    pretendedt obetakingcareofher ..
    ..
    .noman
    mmewagaooneanal eav ui
    li
    ghar tkago
    bolell
    a(y ourmot herhadanev i
    l hearti
    mt el
    li
    ng
    you)
    Dor
    is:
    eveni
    fIgetMoer
    ahel
    phowwi
    l
    lweknow
    i
    fthecurseisupli
    ft
    edandagainthei
    r
    rel
    ati
    onshipwi
    llneverbesameagain.
    ..
    .i
    should’
    vedonesomet hi
    ngVeenowmybaby
    mightbedeadorlayingint
    hehospit
    alfi
    ght
    ing
    forherl
    ife
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    yingpai
    nful
    l
    y**
    *
    Dori
    s:t
    hetradi
    ti
    onal
    doctorpassedonsodid
    AuntMari
    a..
    .wher
    ewill
    Igethelpandwil
    li
    twork
    Vee:wewil
    lconsul
    tunt
    ilwefi
    ndhel
    pnowlet
    mepackforusbecausetomorr
    owmorni
    ngyou
    needtobestr
    ongforMasai
    Dor
    is:
    whataboutHi
    l
    ls
    Vee:wewi l
    ltel
    lhertomorr
    owmor ning.
    ..
    .l
    ether
    sl
    eep..
    .she’
    sstressedaboutf
    acingthat
    mgodoy i(dog)soletherr
    esttoni
    ght
    ***shenoddedandVeegav eherhersl
    eepi
    ng
    pil
    lsandwenttopackf ort
    hem..
    ..
    sheneeded
    thesleeptoni
    ghttodealwit
    hthestor
    m she’
    s
    abouttoface***
    -
    --
    --
    --
    --
    -

    ATTSHI
    MO’
    SHOUSE

    ***AlphalettecalledGazaandt oldhim about


    Masai beinginhospi t alandwhathappened,
    thenhet oldhim Mpandewi llbri
    nghi m acar,a
    cardandt heclot heshel eftathishousewhen
    hecamet ov i
    sitthel astt i
    me. ..
    Hedi dn’thavea
    problem wi ththatbuthewaswor riedabout
    Alpha.Thef actthathesai dt ohi mt hatitki
    ll
    s
    himt hathecan’ tdoany thingt otheot hertwin
    sist
    ercauseMasai andhi ssoont obei nlaws
    willbehur tpissedhi m of f..
    ..hewasangr y
    becauseoft hebet r
    ay aloff ami l
    ymember s,the
    samepeopl ethatar esupposet opr otectand
    beloy altoy ouandt hist i
    mei twaswor secause
    i
    twasMasai ’
    stwi n.
    ...someonesheshar eda
    wombwi thforni
    nemont hsandt hatwas
    sickeningtohim.
    ..
    .hesatupont hebedand
    tookhi sphoneandwentt ohi
    snot esandhe
    openedt heonlyonethat
    ’sther
    eandhel ooked
    atallthenameswr it
    tent
    herethenheadded
    anotherone***
    Gaza:IguessI’l
    lhavetost
    artthi
    slistfr
    om the
    bott
    om now. .
    ..
    she’
    sluckyshegottol i
    ve.
    ..
    .she
    shoul
    dt hankNtsako’
    sconsciousforthatnxa
    ***
    heclenchedhisj
    awslooki
    ngathername
    gett
    ingangryagai
    n..
    ..
    hel
    aidbackonthebed
    l
    ookingupattheceil
    ingi
    magini
    nghowhe
    shoulddoit
    ***

    -
    --
    --
    --
    --

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER18
    .
    .
    .
    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    ***Al
    phal
    etteisalreadybackatt hehospital
    ,
    MpandeleftwithhissonAJt heprev
    iousnight
    andhetookhi mtohi smot her’
    shouse..
    .He
    al
    readyt
    oldheraboutMasai bei
    ngadmi t
    ted
    andshedidn’thaveapr oblem wit
    htakingcare
    ofhergr
    andson.Hesl eptinhiscari
    nthe
    parki
    ngl
    otr i
    ghtafterhet al
    kedtothedoctor,
    hishearti
    sheavyandhe’
    stryi
    ngbyallmeans
    tostaystrongf
    orMasaiandhisson.
    ..
    .Hi
    s
    phoneringsandit
    sGazacall
    i
    ng***
    Al
    pha:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    heyhowi
    sshe
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    nottoobadbutshehasn’
    twokenup
    si
    ncet
    heyputheri
    naninducedcoma
    Gaza:
    whatdi
    dthedoct
    orsay
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Alpha:thatshepr obabl
    ypassedout
    i
    mmedi atelyafterthepunchandwhenshehi t
    thegroundt hewasnosuppor tfr
    om herbodyto
    minimizet heladingsoshehi tthegr
    oundhar d
    mor eespeci al
    lywi t
    hherhead
    *
    **her
    ubbedhi
    sheadcl
    enchi
    nghi
    sjaws*
    **
    Alpha:
    thedoct
    orsai
    dtheyt
    ookherforaCT
    scanandshehassomeswell
    ingonherbr
    ainso
    t
    heyaremonitor
    ingi
    tandgi
    vinghermedi
    cat
    ion
    t
    ostopit
    ..
    ..somethi
    ngl
    iket
    hat
    Gaza:
    eish
    Alpha:shehasadi seasecall
    edLupussoher
    bodyisweakandsheal sohasaweaki mmune
    system andhert winknowst hatbutshesti
    l
    lhit
    herthathard..
    .andwhatki ndoffistdi
    dshehit
    Masai wit
    ht hatdidthistoher
    Gaza:mmmmhmay
    beshe’
    staki
    ngdef
    ence
    cl
    assesor
    ..
    .
    ***
    hekeptquietasi
    fhe’
    sthi
    nki
    ngof
    somet
    hing**
    *
    Gaza:
    orsomeonet
    rai
    nedherorsomet
    hing
    Alpha:yeahmaybebutt odot hatt
    ohertwin.
    ..
    .i
    meanshe’ snotevenremor sef
    ul.
    ..
    shekept
    sayingIshoul
    dn’thav
    el ovedMasai asi
    fMasa
    doesn’tdeser
    vetobel oved
    Gaza:
    wany
    anxa
    Alpha:Ishoul
    d’
    vedonebackgroundcheckson
    theRapulafamil
    ywhenIf oundoutIhavea
    chil
    dwi t
    hMasaandmay besomethingabout
    Moer athetwi
    nwouldhav epoppedout.
    ..
    Ther
    e’s
    somet hi
    ngoffaboutherman
    Gaza:
    offhow
    *
    **heaskedcur
    iousl
    y**
    *

    Alpha:Ial
    way sthoughtshe’ sov er
    prot
    ecti
    ve
    overMasai andagainsheusedt orout
    eforus
    wabonat henal lofasuddenshechangedand
    It
    ’snotaboutherhav ingacr ushonme, t
    hisis
    somet hi
    ngdeepi mt ell
    i
    ngy ou. .
    ..
    ican’
    tfi
    gure
    outwhatbutsomet hingisoff .
    ..
    kunuhwa
    mat j
    imbala(somet hingisof fhere)andim
    gonnaf i
    ndoutwhat ’sgoingoncauseshecan’ t
    changeoutoft heblueunl essshehasbeen
    pretendi
    ngallalong
    Gaza: ormay beshe’ sjealousofhert winand
    feelslikeshedeser vesMasai ’
    s
    happi ness..
    ..
    t herearepeopl eli
    ket hatoutthere
    Imeanl ookatMdu, whathedi dt ome. .
    ..i
    t
    mi ghtnotbet hesamecauseMasai andMoer a
    aret winswhi leMduandIar ecousi ns.
    ..
    .butin
    ourcul turehe’ smybr othercausehi smot her
    andourf ather saresibli
    ngssowegr ewup
    beingcl oset het hr
    eeofussoy ah,imaginehim
    sleepingwi thmywi feandget ti
    ngherpr egnant
    thenboastabouti ttomeandhe’ snotev en
    remor sefulabouthi sbet r
    ay al
    causeIknowhe’ s
    stil
    lf*ckingheraswespeak
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:f
    amil
    yhimat
    ji
    mbasomet
    imes(f
    ami
    l
    yis
    shitsomet
    imes)
    Gaza:
    youcansayt
    hatagai
    n..
    ..
    lookIneeda
    fav
    our
    Al
    pha:
    iml
    i
    steni
    ng
    Gaza:
    canIhav
    eJavas’
    snumber
    sIneedhi
    mto
    hel
    pmewithsomet
    hing
    Alpha:ummm ok..
    ..
    ihopei
    tsnotaboutdeali
    ng
    withMduandhiscrewman...
    .wetalkedabout
    thi
    sGee...
    .y
    ouneedtohealfi
    rst
    ..
    ..
    .Revengeis
    sweeterwhenbestserv
    edcold
    Gaza:im notgonnast
    rikenowsor el
    axIjust
    needinfoaboutsomeoneandf orhisbrot
    her
    Heatht ocomeandinstal
    lsecuri
    tycamera’
    s
    heresinceimleavi
    ngforawhile,IwantTshi
    mo
    tobesaf e
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed.
    ..hewasr
    eli
    eved*
    **
    Alpha:okIgety
    ounow..
    ..
    i’
    ll
    sendthem t
    oyou
    j
    ustnowbutIneedt ot
    ell
    him abouty
    our
    reappear
    ancefi
    rst
    Gaza:
    yeahy
    ouknowhowcr
    azyhei
    s
    Alpha:
    wel
    lhejustlosthisdaught
    ersometime
    backandhe’
    ssti
    llstruggl
    ingwit
    haccept
    inghi
    s
    l
    osssodon’tbeinsensit
    ive
    Gaza:
    what
    ..
    ..
    whathappened
    Alpha:hiswif
    ef *
    ckedacul ti
    stwhot ransfer r
    ed
    hisspir
    it
    ualsnaket ohersoshewi l
    ltransferit
    toJabuandJabuwoul dt r
    ansf eri
    ttotheir
    daughterforsacri
    fi
    cialpurposes..
    ..
    Theb* stard
    waski l
    l
    ingtwobi r
    dswi thonest one,sacri
    fici
    ng
    Jabu’sdaughterandalsohav inghiswi f
    e
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    whati
    sthi
    swor
    ldt
    urni
    ngi
    ntomar
    a
    Al
    pha:
    sohe’
    sfi
    ndi
    ngi
    thar
    dtomov
    eon
    Gaza:
    Iwoul
    dtooman.
    ..
    any
    waydon’
    tfor
    gett
    he
    numbers
    Al
    pha:
    sur
    ewewi
    l
    ltal
    klat
    er.
    ..
    shap
    Gaza:
    Shar
    p
    ***hedroppedthecal
    l andhesi
    ghedcl
    osinghi
    s
    eyesthenheopenedt hem agai
    nandst
    arted
    thecar.
    ...
    heneededtoshowerandcheckonhis
    sonthenhe’ll
    comebackt obebyMasai’
    sside
    *
    **

    _
    ___

    JABU’
    SHOUSE
    ***Loll
    ywal kedi
    nthekit
    chenandf oundJabu
    stari
    ngout sidet
    hekit
    chenwi ndowwithacupin
    hi
    sr ighthandandthelefthandinsi
    dehisl
    eft
    pocket .
    ..
    ..
    Sheclear
    edherthroatandheturned
    andl ookedather**
    *
    Jabu:
    heyy
    ouar
    eawake
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    eahwhat
    ’sf
    orbr
    eakf
    ast
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngar
    oundandJabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    cer
    eal
    ..
    ..Mal
    eftear
    lyi
    nthemor
    ning
    Lol
    l
    y:umm why
    *
    **shesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:
    wehadaf al
    loutyest
    erday
    about
    ..
    ..
    Amo..
    ..
    idi
    dn’
    tli
    kewhatshedi
    d..
    ..
    iknow
    shemeantwel
    lbutshejust
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    sface*
    **
    Jabu:Iwasn’
    treadyt
    ofaceher.
    ..
    .herbei
    ngher
    e
    messedmeupsomemor e.
    ..
    iwasn’tr
    eadyt
    o
    faceher
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ysi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:i
    m sorr
    ybutlikeyousai
    d..
    .shemeant
    well
    ..
    ..
    shethoughtshewashelpinghersonto
    fi
    ndclosur
    ecauseshecantbar etoseehim
    suff
    erwhil
    eshej ustsi
    tsanddonothing
    **
    * Jabusighedputti
    nghiscupofcoffeeontop
    ofthecount erandhesighedf
    acingupwi t
    hhis
    eyesclosed...
    .het
    henlookedatLoll
    ywho
    l
    ookeddownbecauseshecoul dn’tmaint
    ain
    eyecontact***
    Jabu:
    wenahowar
    eyouf
    eel
    i
    ngt
    oday
    *
    **shej
    ustshr
    uggedhershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:Ihonest
    lydon’
    tknow
    Jabu:
    uzobar
    ightdon’
    twor
    ry
    ***
    shewenttoswitchonthekettl
    eandtookout
    acleanmugandpour edcoff
    eeinsi
    deand
    powdermil
    kandshewentt ositononeofthe
    barst
    ool
    sintheki
    tchen***
    Lol
    l
    y:Iwast
    hinki
    ng
    Jabu:
    mmh
    Lol
    ly
    :Iwanttomovefr
    om KZNt
    othi
    s
    si
    de..
    ..
    .per
    manent
    ly
    *
    **Jabul
    ookedathersur
    pri
    sed*
    **
    Jabu:
    what
    Lol
    ly:
    y eahImeanmyf amilyorwhatisl eftof
    myfami lyisthissideandIj ustdon’
    tfeelsafe
    anymor ethere..
    ..
    hewasr eleasedonbai lso
    whatifhet raff
    icsmet oojustbecauseI
    dumpedhi m
    Jabu:lethimtry.
    ..ekannamot howamat homo
    wagobonanogay amosadi eya
    peri
    otong..
    ..
    yesesakanny elabosepaka
    molomost r
    uu(he’ l
    lbethefir
    stpersonev
    erto
    seeaf emalesnakeoni t
    sper i
    od.
    ..
    yeseshe’l
    l
    poopusi nghismouthforreal)
    *
    **Lol
    l
    ylaughed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:bat
    hongJabu
    *
    **shel
    aughedsomemor
    e**
    *
    Jabu:kaochael a(imt el
    li
    ngyou).
    ..
    .sodon’
    t
    worrymanbuti fyoufeel l
    i
    kethemov eiswhat
    youneedt hengorightahead.
    ...
    putyourthi
    ngs
    i
    nor derandI’
    ll
    suppor tyoual
    ltheway
    Lol
    l
    y: t
    hankyou.
    ..
    .butIf
    eelsor
    ryformy
    employeeswhocan’tmovewithme
    ***
    shesaidgoingt
    opourhotwatertohercup
    andaddedf r
    eshmil
    kfrom t
    hef
    ri
    dgeandshe
    wenttositdownagai
    nandshestir
    redher
    coff
    ee**
    *
    Jabu: t
    henopenabr ancht hissi de.
    ..
    thosewho
    cantmov ewi l
    lremaint hatsideandkeept he
    businessgoing...
    youcanev env entureinto
    otherbusi
    nessest hi
    ssidewhi leyourInteri
    or
    Designbusinessi srunningt hatside..
    ..
    you
    al
    readyhavesomeoner unni
    ngi twheny ou’r
    e
    notaroundsot hinkabouti tt horoughly
    ***
    shesmil
    edlooki
    ngathi
    m..
    ..
    sheneverget
    usedtohowsmarthei
    sandhowbusiness
    ori
    ent
    atedhei
    s***
    Jabu:
    what
    Lol
    l
    y:mhmh
    ***
    shesai
    dshakingherheadsmil
    i
    ngabi
    tthen
    shetookasi
    pfrom hercof
    fee*
    **
    Jabu: i
    mt hinkingy oushouldal sofocuson
    Gov er
    nmenti nt eri
    ordesign,Cor porat
    einter
    ior
    design,Healthcar esoonandsof orthandnot
    j
    ustResi dentialandHospi tali
    ty...
    .t
    here’
    smoney
    i
    nt hatindustryy oujusthav etoknowpeopl e
    whoknowsot
    herpeopl
    eandy
    ou’
    reset
    Loll
    y:Iknowi t’
    sjusthar
    dt ogetatender
    especiall
    yinGov er
    nmentorCor porat
    e..
    ..
    it
    ’s
    eit
    hery ousleepwithsomeonet ogetitoryou
    pay..
    .IrememberIoncewentt opitchmy
    presentati
    ont osomecompany ,theywantedto
    revampt heircompany..
    ..
    andyoucanguess
    whatthatf oolwantedmet odowi t
    hhimt oget
    thejob...
    .ir
    efusedandIdidn’
    tgetit.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:soIfocusedmor eonsmal l
    ercompani es,
    Residenti
    alandHospital
    it
    y..
    ..
    ther
    earecr eeps
    outthereandwi t
    hwhatI ’
    vebeenthroughi m
    j
    ustscaredt hati
    tmighthappenagainandI
    knowi fi
    tdoesIwi l
    lnevercomeoutoft hathole
    **
    *sheshrughershoul
    der
    sandcontinuedt
    o
    dr
    inkhercoff
    eeandJabujustsi
    ghed***
    Jabu:r
    etl
    obar
    ightdon’
    twor
    ry(
    wewi
    l
    lbef
    ine
    don’
    tworr
    y)
    Lol
    ly
    :cal
    lyourmom Jabuandf
    ixt
    hingsandcal
    l
    SbutooImisshi
    m
    Jabu:
    wenacal
    lhi
    m hau
    Lol
    l
    y:mxm wabor
    a
    Jabu:goboral
    etsul
    ulel
    elagaolapi
    pienyane
    (thatZul
    uofyourswit
    hasmallpeni
    sistheone
    thati
    sbori
    ng)
    *
    **hesai
    dchuckl
    i
    ng*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    oudi
    dn’
    tjustsayt
    hatJabu
    ***
    shesai
    dlooki
    ngathi
    m andhej
    ustsmi
    rked
    andputhi
    scupinthesi
    nk*
    **
    Jabu: onaganagor emokebukay aHl
    omut he
    wife...
    .agonaboMghel eleboChawemo, mo
    ker enadidomanedi skhokhotsakasi.
    ..
    mapara
    agoj akolesenkengwhi l
    eoutt hereokopanale
    boBheki l
    eboKennymakhenzo. .
    ..
    baobat l
    ao
    bont shamr iv
    ithigi
    rl
    ...
    batl
    aobont shakukuya
    tshoswanebant sebar entokaziochamega
    (youthinkthisisHlomuthewi f
    ebook..
    .there’
    s
    noMghel eandChaweher e,herei
    tsuswel l
    knownhar d-coreguysofthehood...
    .whileout
    thereyoumeetBheki s’andKenny
    makhenzos’ .
    ...t
    hosewill
    showy ouhellonearth
    girl.
    ..
    .t
    hey’
    llshowy ouanant’sp*ssyasy ou
    blushcauset heycall
    edyoumyl ady)
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Jabu: leratadil
    oboLor r
    aineman. .
    ..
    rel eteng
    renaboMj avalaitshotl
    abl aenso..
    .aimar ar e
    tl
    ar engasker eBatswanabar atagore“ peloeja
    serati
    ”t henael ejengge. .
    .elenyofeel eny ofe
    untill
    ebul egamat lholebonegor ethisi sli
    fe
    notsomef i
    cti
    onalbook( youli
    kethings
    Lorraineman. ..
    .whydoy ouallowyour selvesto
    sufferlikethi
    s..
    .aiwhatcanwesayBat swana
    l
    ikest osaya“ lovi
    nghear tknowsnobounds”
    thenlett heheartdealwithy ouall
    ..
    .itshoul d
    chowy oualluntil
    y ouopeny oureyesand
    real
    iset hatthi
    sisr eal
    lif
    enotsomef i
    ct i
    onal
    book)
    ***
    heshookhisheadandwal
    kedawaydi
    all
    i
    ng
    hi
    smot herl
    eavi
    ngLol
    lywi
    thhermout
    hhung
    open*
    **

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    ***Doris,VeeandHill
    swalkedtowher e
    Alphalet t
    eandMpandear eandimmedi atel
    y
    whenDor i
    ssawhowdr ai
    nedAlphalet
    telooked
    tearsst art
    edrunni
    ngdownhercheeks...The
    guysst oodupast heyapproached,
    greeti
    ngare
    exchangedandev er
    yonesitsdown***
    Dor
    is:
    how’
    smybaby
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    l
    lbef
    inewi
    tht
    ime
    ***
    Mpandel ookedatHi
    ll
    swhof elt
    uncomfort
    ablewithhi
    spresence..
    ..
    Shehadl
    ost
    abitofweightbutshewasstil
    lathickmama
    wit
    hglowingskin.
    ..
    ..
    whenyoulookatheryou
    wouldthi
    nkshe’sBubuDlamini’
    stwin***
    Dor
    is:whatdi
    dthedoct
    orsayandwher
    eis
    Moera
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:well
    thedoct
    orsaidshepassedout
    whentheblowhi
    thersobytheti
    meshel anded
    onthefl
    oorshehi
    tithar
    dwithherhead
    **
    *Hil
    lsandDor
    iscr
    iedwhi
    leVeecomfor
    ted
    Dori
    sastear
    srandownhercheeks*
    **
    Alpha:theytookherforaCTscanandt hey
    foundoutt hatshehassomeswel l
    ingonher
    brai
    nsot heyputheri
    naninducedcomasot he
    swelli
    nginherbr ai
    nsubsi
    deswiththehelpof
    medication..
    ..agai
    nherLupusdiseaseis
    worri
    sometoherdoct
    orcausei
    fsheget
    san
    i
    nfecti
    on.
    ..
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Alpha: butshe’
    llbeok...
    .Sheneedsourpr ayer
    s
    socomeoutoft hi
    sstronger..
    .she’
    si napri
    vate
    highcar eroom ri
    ghtnow. ..
    idi
    dn’twanther
    shar i
    ngherspacewi thany onetoav oid
    i
    nf ecti
    ons..
    ..
    youcanv isi
    therany ti
    mey ouwant
    there’snov i
    sit
    inghourst her
    e
    *
    **mor
    ecr
    ies*
    **
    Dori
    s:thankyouson.
    ..
    you’
    l
    lsendmeani
    nvoi
    ce
    andI’
    ll
    payy ouback
    Alpha:she’
    sthemotherofmychi
    ldandIl
    ove
    herma. .
    ..
    iwannamakehermywifesothi
    sis
    met aki
    ngcareofmysoont obewif
    esoplease
    l
    etme
    **
    *Dor
    isnoddedfeel
    i
    ngov
    erwhel
    med.
    ..
    .shest
    il
    l
    bl
    ameshersel
    f**
    *
    Vee:haimetlhol
    ogay abonakeboMoshehel a,
    l
    er onaraebonashem (Mosesi snottheonly
    onewhosawunt hinkabl
    ethings,weareseei
    ng
    them t
    oo). .
    ..
    .wi
    thjustonepunchandMasai i
    s
    i
    ncoma. ..
    .el
    egor elesuregoreshepunched
    herhela(areyousur eshejustpunchedher)
    *
    **nooneanswer
    edher
    ***
    Vee:
    yho
    *
    **shecl
    appedherhandsi
    nadr
    amat
    icway
    ***
    Hil
    l
    s:asat
    radi
    ti
    onal
    heal
    erdoy
    out
    hinkshe’
    l
    l
    beok
    ***ShesniffedwipinghertearsoffandMpande
    l
    ookeddown. .
    ..
    hewasf eel
    ingsomet ypeofway
    abouther..
    ..ev
    enherv oi
    cesoundedsweeti nhi
    s
    ears..
    .heshookhisheadget ti
    ngridofthose
    thoughts.
    ..
    .shenothistypeandnev erwill
    be
    that’
    swhywhent heyhadthatt hr
    eesum he
    f*ckedMoer amor ethanher..
    .hecoul
    dn’teven
    kissherorgodownonherl ikehedidwi t
    h
    Moer
    a**
    *
    Alphalett
    e:yesshewill
    ..
    .i
    m notworr
    iedabout
    herbeingokphy si
    call
    yim worri
    edabouther
    ment alstat
    e..
    ..
    shel
    oveshertwinsandthisi
    s
    gonnabeahugebl owf orherwhenshewakes
    up..
    .herLupusmi ghtfl
    areupbecauseofstress
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    butshe’
    l
    lbeokdon’
    twor
    ryt
    oomuch
    Dor
    is:
    wher
    eisKhai
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    ssaf
    ewi
    thmymot
    her
    *
    **Dor
    isnodded*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    Ineedt
    oseeher
    Alpha:
    she’si
    nther
    e..
    .t
    henur
    sest
    ati
    onedt
    o
    careofherwi
    lll
    etyoui
    n
    ***
    Dor i
    sgotupwithVeeandtheywal
    kedtoher
    pri
    vatehighcarewar
    dwhileHil
    l
    sstay
    ed
    behind.
    ..
    .she’
    l
    lgowhentheycomeout**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    pleasedon’
    thar
    m her
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ookedathersodi
    dMpande*
    **
    Hill
    s:Iknowy ouloveMasaandy ou’r
    eangry
    thatMohur tthemot herofy
    ourchil
    d
    but..
    .pl
    easethinkofmama. .
    ..
    Letherhandl
    eher
    thebestwaysheknowshow
    Al
    pha:
    whydoy
    out
    hinkIwoul
    dhur
    tMoer
    a
    Hil
    ls:
    causeri
    ghtnowIfeell
    i
    kebeat
    ingt
    heshi
    t
    outofherf
    orwhatshedid
    *
    **Mpandechuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Mpande:withthoseti
    nnysoftl
    ookinghands
    ungazodl
    ala.
    ..
    .uMoel
    awillsendyoustr
    aightt
    o
    heavenwithj
    ustaslapImeanl ookatwhatshe
    di
    dt oherownt wi
    n
    ***
    Hill
    sgavehi
    m adeat
    hst
    areandhe
    chuckl
    ed**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Mpandeno.
    ..
    Mpande:
    ngi
    yazi
    buzel
    anj
    ehaw(i
    mjustaski
    ng)
    causeshe’
    ssur
    eshecant
    akeont
    hemi
    ght
    y
    Helga
    Al
    pha:
    notnowmanei
    sh.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hewar
    nedhi
    m**
    *
    Mpande:
    aiokke
    *
    **heshr
    uggedhi
    sshoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Hil
    l
    s:WellMrt
    heseti
    nnyhandsmanagedto
    hol
    dyourti
    nnyd*ckt
    hatti
    mesoim sur
    ethey
    canpunchMohow’sthat
    Mpande:
    aski
    es
    Hil
    ls:mxm youpeoplewi
    thsmal
    ldisabl
    ed
    penisesbar
    kalot.
    ..
    lebor
    agore(youareabor
    e)
    ***shesaidwithanatt
    it
    udeandMpandegotup
    angri
    lyandAlphapull
    edhim downr
    oughl
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:wenzani
    ..
    ..si
    t!
    !!
    !(whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng.
    ..
    .
    si
    t!
    !!
    )
    Mpande:
    wena.
    ..
    ..
    wenakhul
    ubuswe.
    ..
    fet
    i
    boomboom nok’
    nukaut
    hini(y
    oubi gf
    atwi
    th
    yoursmel
    l
    yselfwhatdi
    dy oujustsay
    )
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngather
    ***
    Alpha:t
    hat’
    senoughman...
    ..
    wear
    eint
    he
    hospit
    alforf
    uckssake!
    !!
    !
    ***hesaidwithanangr yvoicet hatstart
    ledHil
    ls
    whileMpandej ustpointedatHi ll
    swi t
    hhi sego
    bruisedandHill
    sdecidedt oconcent rateonher
    phonescr ol
    li
    ngonherFacebookt i
    melineto
    avoidcryi
    ng,she’shur tbyMpandewor ds..
    .
    bodyshami ngherlikethat.
    ..herdisl
    ikeforhim
    grewst r
    ongerafterwhathej ustsai
    d* **

    _
    ___

    LATERONATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    *
    **Jabu’
    sint
    ercom r
    angandi
    twast
    he
    poli
    ce.
    ..
    heaskedhi msel
    fwhatt heywantedin
    hishouse,heopenedforthem andwaitedby
    theopendoorast heywal
    kedt owardshim wi
    th
    Amobehi ndthem andhesighedshakinghis
    head***
    Pol
    i
    ce:
    gooddayMrVi
    l
    akazi
    Jabu:
    sho.
    ..howcanIhel
    pyouof
    fi
    cer
    s
    **
    *hesaidl
    ookingatAmowhol
    ookedaway
    whenthei
    reyesmet***
    Poli
    ce:MrsVilakaziher
    easkedusto
    accompanyhert othishouset
    ocomeandt ake
    herthi
    ngs.
    ..
    .shesaidshedoesn’tf
    eelsaf
    etodo
    soalonesi
    ncey ouhav eatemper
    ***
    Jabuchuckl
    edshakinghishead..
    ..
    hehada
    l
    ottosaybuthedecidedotherwisecausehe
    couldt
    ell
    shedidn’
    ttel
    lthem abouthim poi
    nti
    ng
    agunather**
    *
    Jabu:okshecancomeinat seyemarat
    haa
    gae(andtakeherr
    ags).
    ..
    .butyoutwostay
    out
    side
    Pol
    ice2:di
    dn’
    tyouheart
    hepartwhereIsai
    d
    shesaidyouhaveatemperMrVil
    akazi
    ***
    hesaidwit
    hafir
    mv oiceandJabu
    chuckl
    ed.
    ..
    amusedthathethi
    nksthatt
    onewi
    l
    l
    scarehi
    m***
    Jabu:
    Ihav
    eat
    emperAmogel
    ang.
    .
    *
    **heaskedherandshedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:wowok. ..
    anywaythesoonershe’
    soutof
    myl i
    fet
    hebet terbutt
    hetwoofy ouarenot
    all
    owedinsidemyhouse. .
    ..
    youwannaplant
    thi
    ngsandf rameme. .
    ..l
    etauwekechelet
    ey a
    bri
    bekal ebona(y oumustbedrunkbybr i
    be
    moneyy oulikecoll
    ect
    ingIsee)
    ***
    Amofeltherhear
    tbr
    eaki
    ntopi
    ecewhenhe
    sai
    dthat
    ***
    Pol
    i
    ce1:
    that
    ’saser
    iousaccusat
    ionman
    Jabu:
    suemet
    hennxa.
    ..
    .nowar
    rantt
    oent
    ermy
    housemeansnoentr
    ybutdi
    etowenaar(t
    his
    wit
    ch)canent
    erandtakemar
    athany
    anaagae
    (herrags)
    Pol
    ice2:t
    heny ou’
    ll
    standherewi
    thusf
    orher
    saf
    etyim sur
    ey ouunderst
    and
    Jabu:
    makei
    tqui
    ckwenaIhav
    epl
    acest
    obe
    ***Hesaidannoyedandt hepoli
    ceoffi
    cers
    sighedandtoldAmot ogoin.
    ..
    .Shewentin
    upstair
    sandshegott othemainbedroom and
    tearsfi
    ll
    edhereyes.
    ..
    .t
    hiswasonceher
    mat r
    imonial
    bedroom whereshelosther
    virgi
    nit
    yandmadeherbabygi r
    l.
    ...
    tear
    sran
    downhercheeksandshequi cklywipedthem
    off***
    Amo:youhavetodothi
    stosaveyourmarri
    age
    Amo.
    ..
    .Ifyoudon’
    tyou’
    l
    llosehi
    mt oher
    ..
    .she’
    l
    l
    l
    iv
    eyourli
    fewhil
    eyousuffer
    **
    *shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    fandtookoutapacket
    wit
    hmuthii
    nsi
    deandshespri
    nkl
    edsmall
    amountofi tundert hemat tress, shet henwent
    tothemount edwal l unitwardrobeandshe
    spri
    nkledsomeofi tonJabu’ sclot hesmaki ng
    surethemut hi i
    snotv i
    sibl
    ethenshewentt o
    hisshoesandspr inkl edsomeofi t
    .Shewentt o
    hisdrawers( underpant s)andspr inkledsomeof
    i
    ttheretoot henshequi ckl
    yputt hepacket
    i
    nsideherbagandt ookouthert rav ell
    ingbag
    andst ar
    tedpacki nghert hi
    ngs....Soonaf terthe
    dooropenedandAmoj umpedst artledwi t
    hher
    heartbeati
    ngf astandJabuwal kedi nf i
    nding
    herpacking** *
    Jabu:awautl
    wagekere(di
    dn’
    tyouhearwhen
    Isai
    d)Ihav
    eplacest
    obe
    Amo:
    i.
    ..
    i.
    ..
    im al
    mostdone
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thherhear
    tst
    il
    lbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    Jabu:al
    mostdoney
    amasepa..
    ..
    fet
    sadaar
    befor
    eonnyel
    anxa(fi
    nisht
    her
    ebefor
    eIdeal
    wit
    hy ounxa)
    ***t
    henhewal kedoutl eavingthedooropen
    cli
    cki
    nghi stongueandAmobr eathedoutwi t
    h
    herhear tbeati
    ngf ast.
    ..
    .shefini
    shedpacking
    someofhercl othes,shoesandbagsandt ook
    them downst ai
    rs..
    .shef oundLorraineandJabu
    sit
    ti
    ngi ntheloungeandangerf i
    l
    ledher
    heart
    ...
    .shehatedLor rainewithev eryf
    ibr
    ein
    herbodyandev ent houghshef eltbadatfirst
    forwhatshedi di nthemai nbedr oom nowal l
    thatfeeli
    ngisoutoft hewi ndow* **
    Amo: youcoul
    dn’
    tevenwaitf
    ormetopackup
    andleaveandalr
    eadyyou’
    remaki
    ngyour
    sel
    f
    themadam ofthehouse
    Lol
    ly:
    im gonnai
    gnor
    eyoucausey
    ou’
    renot
    thi
    nki
    ngstrai
    ght
    *
    **Amol
    aughed*
    **
    Amo:enj
    oymyhousewhi l
    eitl
    astmogi
    rland
    rememberwhatt
    heLor
    dhat hj
    oinedt
    ogether
    l
    etnomanputasunder
    ..
    .al
    waysremember
    t
    hosewor
    ds
    Loll
    y :
    Iwoul dremembert hosewor dsi
    fIwas
    sl
    eepi ngwi t
    hhim butim notf*
    ckingyour
    husbandsweet y.
    ..
    he’sj
    ustdonewi thyourev i
    l
    sel
    f...
    .may beyoushouldlookinthemi rr
    orfirst
    beforey oublameot her
    s..
    ..
    noonesendy out o
    f*
    ckacul t
    ist,y
    oudidoutofy ourfreewil
    l.
    ..
    look
    i
    nt hemi rr
    oranduy ekel
    eukus’bora(andst op
    boringus)
    *
    **Amot
    ri
    edt
    osaysomet
    hing*
    **
    Jabu:eyeybannabagaobaoyemetsekont
    le
    sovaya(y ourmenar
    ewait
    ingf
    oryououtsi
    de
    soleave)
    ***
    Shehuf f
    edandt ookherthi
    ngsoutsi
    deand
    Jabubendandputhi selbowsonhiskneesand
    heclosedhiseyeswhileswall
    owingahuge
    l
    ump. .
    ..
    hecouldn’
    tbeli
    evehismarri
    agejust
    endedliket
    hat.
    ..
    .Thewomanhel ovedandstil
    l
    l
    ove,thechurchgoingwomanwhocapt uredhis
    heartandmadehim wanttomar ryandbui
    l
    da
    stabl
    ehomef orhi
    skidsjustchangedto
    somet hi
    ngev
    ilj
    ustli
    kethat**
    *
    Amo:
    aski
    esIshoul
    d’
    vej
    usti
    gnor
    edher
    Jabu:
    y oucanuset
    heBmw. ..
    tel
    lGogo
    somethingcameupandIcoul
    dn’tmakei
    t
    **
    *Hesaidgi
    vi
    nghert
    hecarkey
    sandLol
    l
    y
    si
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:ok.
    ..
    you’
    l
    lbef
    iner
    ight
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:I
    ’
    llseey
    oul
    ater
    Jabu:
    sho
    ***
    shesighedandgotupandshetookherbag
    andwalkedoutwithaheav
    yhear
    t.
    ...
    Shehated
    seei
    nghiml i
    kethat
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    FAMILY.
    ..
    SOMEONEREPORTEDCHAPTER14
    SOKEDIISRESTRICTEDFROM POSTI
    NG.
    ENJOYTHENEXTCHAPTER.PLEASELEAVEI
    F
    YOUDON'TLIKETHESTORY.NONEEDTO
    REPORTANDRUI NITFOREVERYONE.

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER19
    .
    .
    .
    ATMOERA’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Moer aisinDrench’
    sar
    m asheconsol
    es
    her.
    ..
    she’ssnif
    fi
    ngandhekeepsbr
    ushingher
    arm gent
    ly**
    *
    Dr
    ench:don’
    tbeaty
    our
    sel
    fupev
    ery
    thi
    ngwi
    l
    lbe
    al
    ri
    ght
    *
    **shesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Moera:not
    hingwi
    l
    lbealr
    ightDre.
    ..
    .myf
    ami
    l
    y
    wi
    llhat
    emeandIcan’thavethat
    Dr
    e:howsur
    ear
    eyout
    hatt
    heywi
    l
    lhat
    eyou
    Moer
    a:she’sthebabyofthef
    amil
    y.
    ..
    .ev
    ery
    one’
    s
    f
    avor
    it
    e..
    ..
    theygonnahatemeIknow
    *
    **Dr
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Dr
    e:y
    oudon’
    tknowt
    hatMo
    Moer
    a:IknowDr
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dget
    ti
    ngof
    fhi
    shol
    dandshel
    ooked
    athi
    m**
    *
    Moera:hersangomaboyfri
    endt
    ookthekni
    feI
    usedtocuttheseal
    tapeandtheusedseal
    tape
    Iusedtowrapthecarpet
    Dr
    e:wha.
    ..
    itol
    dyout
    ogetr
    idoft
    hatMo!
    !!
    Moer a:Iforgott
    hekni f
    eok...
    iwaspani cki
    ng
    buttheseal t
    apeIthrewitawayandhef oundi
    t
    whenIl eftwiththeambulance..
    .whatifhe
    bewitchesmeusi ngthem orhegivesthem to
    thepoliceifMasai opensacaseagai nst
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thashakyv
    oice*
    **
    Moer
    a:nowIknowwhyhesai
    dIshoul
    dleav
    e
    wi
    tht
    heambulance
    ***shewipedhert
    ear
    sof
    fwi
    thhershaky
    hand***
    Dr
    e:don’
    twor
    ryI
    ’
    llt
    akecar
    eofi
    t
    Moera:
    howam Igonnafaceev
    ery
    one.
    ..
    .who
    knowsmaybeheal
    readytol
    dmamaeveryt
    hing
    *
    **shecov
    eredherf
    aceandshecr
    ied*
    **
    Moera:
    Iwi
    shAl
    exwasst
    il
    lali
    ve.
    ..
    .maybeby
    nowIwoul
    dbehappi
    l
    ymarr
    iedfarawayfr
    om
    her
    Dr
    e:don’
    ttal
    kli
    ket
    hat
    ..
    ..
    she’
    syourt
    win
    Moer
    a:Iwi
    shshewasn’
    t
    Dr
    e:don’
    tev
    ersayt
    hatMoer
    a!!
    !
    Moer a:youdon’tknowhowmyl i
    fehasbeen
    l
    ikeDr e..
    ..
    toberecognizedandappr eci
    atedI
    hadt ohidehowIf eelandbet her
    ef orherandI
    l
    ostmy sel
    falongtheway .
    ..
    .Meal ways
    protecti
    ngherandbei ngthereforhermademy
    presenceacknowl edged
    *
    **Dr
    enchj
    ustl
    ookedather
    ***
    Moera:she’
    sbeensickforaslongasIcan
    rememberandallt
    heattenti
    onwenther.
    ..
    .”l
    e
    samokwat i
    sathat
    a”(don’tmakehertoo
    angr
    y).
    ..
    .“Masaiojel
    e”(didMasai
    eat)..
    ..
    tl
    hat swadi j
    wanaMoer adijoi
    nt sagaedi
    botlhokokaj eno, wabonaopal l
    etselegoy a
    sekolong. .
    ..otladi tl
    hatswakamosogeal e
    betere”(washt hedishesMoer aherj ointsare
    painful,
    y oucanseeshedi dn’tevengot o
    school today .
    ..
    she’ l
    lwasht hem tomor rowwhen
    she’sbet ter)....
    nyweeny weeny weenxa. .
    .she
    alway sget sev erygoodt hi
    ngandi t
    ’snotf ai
    r
    *
    **sheputherhandsonherf
    ace*
    **
    Moer a:shealway sgetsthebestt hi
    ngsi nl
    ife
    whileIalway shavet osuffertogetthem...
    .i
    m
    theonet hatconv i
    ncedhernott oabor tandnow
    she’shappywi t
    hherboy fri
    endandi m cast
    asideasi fIdon’texist
    ..
    ..
    She’shappyandi m
    miserable..
    ..
    .ishouldbetheonewho’ shappy
    Dre..
    .ihavealway sbeent hereforhernowwhy
    can’tsheletmebehappyj ustforonceDr e
    ***
    Dredidn’
    tknowwhatt
    osayt
    oher
    ..
    ..
    he’
    sjust
    shocked***
    Dre:howMo...
    isshemay
    bebl
    ocki
    ngy
    ourway
    t
    oy ourhappi
    ness
    *
    **Shel
    ookedawaynotsay
    ingany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Dr
    e:Moer
    a..
    .
    Moer
    a:l
    et’
    sjustdr
    opi
    t.
    ..
    youwon’
    tunder
    stand
    Dr
    e:doy
    ouper
    hapsenv
    yyourt
    win
    Moer
    a:canwej
    ustdr
    opi
    tpl
    ease
    ***
    shesai
    dgett
    ingupandDr eshookhishead
    notbel
    i
    evi
    ngwhathejustheard..
    ..
    wasthi
    sthe
    Moeraheknowsandlovessecretl
    y**
    *
    Moera:andnoIdon’
    t.
    ..
    .il
    oveMasaishe’
    smy
    twin.
    ..
    wesharedawombt oget
    her
    ..
    .sost
    op
    assumingthi
    ngspl
    ease
    ***
    Asshe’saboutt ogotothebat
    hroom t
    her
    e’s
    aknockont hedoor,shemovedtothedoort
    o
    seewhoitis..
    .assheopensthedoorshe
    fr
    eezesshaking***
    Moer
    a:ma.
    ..
    mama
    ***
    Dor i
    sgr
    absherwi
    thhergownandpushed
    herinsi
    der
    oughl
    yandDregotup***
    Dr
    e:what
    ’sgoi
    ngo.
    ..
    .
    **
    *hesawt hati
    twashermot herandher
    mother
    ’sfri
    end..
    ..hi
    seyeslandedont he
    sj
    ambok( alongstif
    fwhip)Veeisholdingand
    heswall
    owedhar d***
    Moer
    a:mamai
    ..
    ..
    **
    *aloudsl
    aplandedonherf
    aceandDr
    ejust
    cl
    osedhisey
    es***
    Dor
    is:
    soy
    ouwannaki
    l
    lyoursi
    sterMoer
    a!!
    !
    Moer
    a:nomamai
    twasami
    stake
    *
    **shesai
    dhi
    dingherf
    acewhi
    l
    ecr
    ying*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    oll
    elangheh.
    ..
    oll
    elang!
    !!(whyar
    ecr
    ying)
    Vee:wenammaspeker
    eabor
    ehwa!
    !!(y
    ou
    col
    ouredper
    sonl
    eave!
    !)
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngatDr
    e**
    *
    Dr
    e:canweall
    calm downandt
    alk.
    ..
    .hi
    tt
    ingher
    won’
    tsol
    veanyt
    hingplease
    *
    **Dor
    isl
    ookedatDr
    e**
    *
    Dori
    s:VeetshwarababyJakeMat l
    alamoke
    deal
    elethisboykabonagaitsigor
    eaborehwa
    erayagoreng(Veecomeandhol dbabyJake
    Matlal
    aheresoIdealwit
    hthisboyIseehe
    doesn’
    tknowwhatleavemeans)
    ***
    Veegottothem andheldMoerawhowas
    tr
    yingt
    ogetouthermot her
    ’shol
    dcry
    ingand
    shegavethesj
    ambokt oDoriswhowentcl
    oser
    toDrewholookedspookedmov i
    ng
    backwards*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    whatdi
    dyousay
    Dre:
    lookmam Ijustsai
    dyoushoul
    dsi
    tdown
    andtal
    k..
    ..
    beat
    ingherwon’
    tsol
    veanyt
    hing
    Dori
    s:andr
    emi
    ndme.
    ..
    .whoar
    eyout
    othi
    s
    fami
    ly
    Dr
    e:Icareaboutherok.
    ..
    .she’
    smyl
    ate
    br
    other
    ’sfi
    ancée
    Dori
    s:di
    dImay ber
    ecei
    velobol
    amoneyfr
    om
    yourbr
    otherormaybemeethiminper
    son
    *
    **Dr
    eswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Dor i
    s:osany akont l
    waelamasepaboy( don’
    t
    pissmeof fboy )
    ..
    ..ringny
    anay atwobob(a
    twocentr i
    ng)andy outhi
    nky ouhav eari
    ghtto
    sayany t
    hinginthisf amil
    y..
    ..
    nowtakey ourl
    ight
    skinnedselfandf* kofbeforeowel akemadi a
    kgofa(bef or
    ey oucat chstraybul
    let)
    *
    **Dr
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Dre:Ineedtomakesureshe’
    ssaf
    ema.
    ..
    .she
    acknowledgest
    hat.
    ..
    ***
    thewhi
    plandedonhisar
    m goi
    ngt
    ohi
    sback
    andhescr
    eamedt aki
    ngcov
    er*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    OUTNOW!
    !!
    Dr
    e:damni
    t.
    ..
    arey
    oucr
    azy
    ..
    .ar
    eyououtofy
    our
    f
    *ckenmi
    nd.
    ..
    .doy
    ouknowwhoIam
    Moer
    a:mamast
    oppl
    ease
    *
    **shebeggedhermot
    her
    ***
    Dori
    s:osanalemolomowenababyJake(y ou
    st
    il
    lhavemouthtotal
    kbabyJake)
    ..
    ..
    andwena
    DrPhil
    you’
    resti
    l
    lhere!
    !!
    Dre:
    im notl
    eavi
    ngherwi
    thy
    ou..
    .y
    ou’r
    e
    cr
    azy..
    ..
    she’
    snotsaf
    ewit
    hyouhere.
    ..
    eishdamn
    i
    t
    ***
    hesai drubbi
    ngwherehecoul dreachand
    Dorisrushedtohim wi
    ththewhipaimedhi gh
    andDr epull
    edouthisgunf r
    om hisbackand
    pointeditt
    oherandDor i
    sstoppedonher
    tr
    ackswhi l
    eVeeandMoer ascr
    eamed* **
    Dr
    e:st
    opok!
    !
    Dori
    s:poi
    nti
    ngagunatanoldwoman.
    ..
    ..
    you
    knowhowt ochooset
    hem Moer
    ashem
    Moer
    a:Dr
    est
    oppl
    ease.
    ..
    ..
    putt
    hegundown
    *
    **shebeggedhi
    m**
    *
    Dori
    s:sonowy ouwannashootmeboy .
    ..
    .y
    ou
    can’
    tfi
    ghtmemant omansoy our esortt
    o
    gunsnow..
    ..
    obatlar
    etshamekegun- gun
    now..
    .youwantmetogograbmi neandshow
    youhowaguni susedtocowardslikeyou
    ***Dresi
    ghedshockedathowcr azyandhecti
    c
    thiswomanis...
    .hehasnev ermetsomeonel ike
    her..
    .y
    ou’dswearshe’spartoft hemaf i
    aor
    somet hi
    ng.
    ..
    .hecantbeliev
    et hatshe’snotev
    en
    scaredofagunpoi nt
    edatherwhi leMoera
    l
    ooksspookedev enthoughshewasonce
    trai
    nedonhowt oshootbyAl ex***
    Dre:Idon’
    twannashooty
    ouIj
    ustwanty
    out
    o
    calm downthat
    ’si
    t
    *
    **hesai
    draisi
    nghisgunupi
    nasurrender
    modethenputitonhi
    sbackagai
    n**
    *
    Dr
    e:lookIunder
    standthaty
    ou’
    reangryand
    di
    sappoint
    edatherbutshewasonlydefendi
    ng
    her
    sel
    f
    Dor
    is:
    youst
    il
    lhav
    emout
    htot
    alkhuh
    ***
    shesaidrushi
    ngtohi
    m andherantothe
    doorandthesjambokl
    andedonhisbackand
    hescreamedasheopenedthedoorrunni
    ng
    outsi
    de***
    Dor
    is:
    nxa
    *
    **sheclosedt
    hedoorandlockedi
    tthent
    urned
    t
    oMoer awhowasstil
    lcry
    ing***
    Dor
    is:
    arey
    e..
    .f
    rom t
    het
    op.
    ..
    .i
    mli
    steni
    ng
    *
    **Moer
    alookedathermot
    herscar
    ed*
    **
    Dori
    s:obat
    lagobolel
    akampamaMoer
    a!!
    !
    (youwantaslapt
    obeablet
    otal
    kMoer
    a!!
    !)
    Moer
    a:no
    Dori
    s:oemet
    seng!
    !!(whatar
    eyouwai
    ti
    ng
    for
    !!
    !)
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustcr
    iedand
    Dor
    iswentcl
    osert
    oherandshehi
    dherf
    ace*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    Moer
    a
    Moer
    a:mama
    Dori
    s:obat
    lagonny
    a(y
    ouwantt
    oshi
    t
    your
    sel
    f)
    Moer
    a:no
    Dor
    is:
    thenwhatdi
    dyoudot
    oyourt
    win
    *
    **st
    il
    lwi
    thherf
    acehi
    dden*
    **
    Moer
    a:shesl
    appedmeandIpunchedher
    Dor
    is:why
    *
    **shekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Vee:
    praatmanMoer
    a(t
    alkmanMoer
    a)
    Dori
    s:she’sgonnawakeupandt el
    lmet
    hetrut
    h
    soit
    sbetterIheari
    tfr
    om you.
    ..nowwhydi
    d
    youtwofight
    *
    **Moer
    asni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    bol
    elaman!
    !!
    (t
    alk)
    *
    **shesai
    dhi
    tti
    ngherwit
    ht hesj
    ambokonher
    l
    egsandshescreamedcr
    ying***
    Dor
    is:
    tal
    k
    ***shej
    ustcr i
    edtryi
    ngtogr abthesjambokbut
    Veeheldherar mst ur
    ningheraroundabitand
    thesjambokl andedonherbut tandshejumped
    screaming..
    ..
    anotherwhiplandedonherbutt
    andanot heroneandanot herone***
    Moer
    a:IHATEHEROK.
    ..
    .IHATEHER!
    !!
    *
    **Dor
    isst
    oppedandVeel
    etgoofher
    ***
    Moer
    a:YESIHATEHER!
    !!
    **
    *Dori
    slookedatheraspai
    nchokedher
    ..
    .i
    t
    wasreal
    lyhappeni
    ng***
    Vee:
    howcany
    ouhat
    eyourt
    winsi
    sterMoer
    a
    Moera:mamayouchasedDreoutandl
    efther
    her
    e..
    ..
    you’
    reahy
    pocri
    te.
    ..
    .whyi
    sshehere
    **
    * shesai
    dpointi
    ngatVeeandVeer
    aisedher
    eyebrowsshocked**
    *
    Moera:Drecan’
    thav
    easaybutshehasthe
    r
    ighttohaveoneandther
    ightt
    ojudgeme
    Vee:
    hehBahur
    utsebant
    set
    se!
    !!
    ***
    sheclappedherhandsnotbel
    i
    evi
    ngwhat
    shejusthear
    d**
    *
    Dori
    s:VeepleasegoandpackMasai
    ’
    scl
    othes
    andtoi
    let
    ri
    esalsopackKhai
    ’st
    oo
    ***
    VeelookedatMoerawithadi
    sgustedl
    ook
    onherfaceshaki
    ngherheadandshewentto
    Masai’
    sbedroom andDor
    issi
    ghedlooki
    ngata
    sni
    ffi
    ngMoera***
    Dor
    is:
    whydoy
    ouhat
    eher
    *
    **shesai
    ddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Moer
    a:shealwaysgetstheat
    tent
    ion.
    ..
    .y
    ou
    al
    waysputherfi
    rstbef
    oreme..
    ..
    youdon’tl
    ove
    meli
    keyoudohermamaandy ouknowi t
    Dor
    is:
    howcany
    ouev
    ensayt
    hatMoer
    a
    ***
    sheaskedwi
    thapai
    nedtone.
    ..
    shecoul
    dn’
    t
    bel
    iev
    ewhatshewashear
    ing***
    Moer
    a:i
    t’
    str
    ue
    Dori
    s:she’salwayssickMoer a.
    ..
    .you’
    veseen
    heratherlowestwher ewet houghtwemi ght
    l
    oseher .
    ..
    .whereshecan’ tevengetoutofbed
    orli
    ftafi
    ngertof eedherself.
    ...
    whereshecan’t
    evenwipeherselfcleanaf t
    ertakingashitcause
    ever
    ymuscl ejoinfrom headt otoeispai
    nf ul
    andstif
    f
    *
    **Moer
    adi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Dor
    is:everydayi
    safightf
    oryoursi
    ster
    Moera..
    ..
    every
    daycouldbeherl
    ast.
    ..
    .
    Moer
    a:whataboutmet
    henmama
    Dor
    is:
    whatdoy
    oumean
    Moera:
    shoul
    dIalsogetat
    ermi
    nal
    diseaset
    o
    gett
    heatt
    ent
    ionIdeser
    ve
    ***
    Dori
    sjustcl
    osedherey
    esshaki
    ngher
    head*
    **
    Moera: i
    mt i
    redofalway sbei
    ngther
    efor
    her.
    ..
    .shegetsev er
    ythi
    ngwhileIhav
    etofi
    ghtto
    geteverythi
    ng..
    ..
    nowshehasamant hatl
    oves
    herandIhav etogoar oundkissi
    ngugl
    yfr
    ogs
    togetamant hatwilll
    oveme
    Dor i
    s:Moer ay ouf i
    nishedschool f
    ir
    stcause
    yoursister’
    sLupuswaswor sewheny out wo
    didMat ri
    c..
    ..shehadt odropoutcauseshewas
    constantlyatt hehospi talbedr i
    dden..
    ..
    .you
    wentt oVar sit
    yfirstwhenshewasi nMat r
    ic
    str
    ugglingcausesomeday sshewoul dbef ine
    whi l
    esomeday sshewoul dbesi ckand
    forgetf
    ul..
    ..
    youf oundaj obf i
    rstwhil
    eshewas
    str
    ugglinginVar si
    tybecauseherbr ainfoggot
    wor sesoshewasf or getf
    ul atti
    mes
    ***
    Tearsr
    andownDor
    isey
    esaspai
    nchoked
    her*
    **
    Doris:
    shelovesAccounti
    ngbutsheendedup
    doingacoursethatdoesn’
    tchal l
    engeher
    becauseofherbrainfog.
    ..
    .shewoul df
    orget
    Accounti
    ngequationsandgr aphsduri
    ngatest
    andsheendedupf ai
    l
    ing
    Moera:
    mamaitdoesn’
    tchanget
    haty
    oul
    ove
    hermoret
    hanme
    Dori
    s:didn’
    tyouhearwhatIj
    ustsaid
    Moera..
    ..
    whyonal epel
    oempeso(whyar ethi
    s
    hear
    tl
    ess)...
    .soyou’
    vebeenpr
    etendingal
    l
    al
    ongtocar eforher
    Moer
    a:i
    m donewi
    tht
    hisconv
    ersat
    ion.
    ..
    .
    Dor
    is:y
    oursi
    steri
    sinhospit
    alMoer
    a..
    ..i
    nan
    i
    nducedcoma..
    .doyouevencar
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thabr
    eaki
    ngv
    oice*
    **
    Moer a:
    otengaker
    ewenamma(y ouar
    e
    avai
    lablemama).
    ..
    .y
    ougiveherall
    thecarei
    n
    theworldandf
    orgetaboutpoorMoera
    *
    **aslapl
    andedonMoer a’
    sfacet
    henawhip
    l
    andedonherarm andbackandshecr
    ied
    movingawayfr
    om Dori
    s***
    Dori
    s:I’
    l
    lexor
    ciseyoukathissjamboktotake
    outthi
    sdemont hathaspossessedyou.
    ..
    .t
    hat’
    s
    yourtwi
    nforheaven’
    ssake
    *
    **Moer
    acr
    iedr
    unni
    ngawayf
    rom Dor
    is*
    **
    Moera:shecandieforall
    Icare.
    ..
    .ihat
    eal
    lof
    you..
    .y
    oualwaystakehersideasifshewas
    creat
    edbyspecialsper
    msnxa
    ***shesaidlimpingtoherbedroom fastand
    l
    ockedher selfinsi
    de..
    ..
    Dor
    isheardhercry i
    ng
    painful
    l
    yandshet hrewthesjambokont he
    fl
    oorandt hrewher sel
    fonthecouchandput
    herhandsont opofherheadandcr i
    ed...
    ..
    Vee
    stoodbyt hedoorasherey esfil
    l
    edwi thtears
    andast heyfellshewipedthem offandwent
    i
    nsi det
    hebedr oom toconti
    nuepacking***
    _
    ___

    ***Joe(Tshimo’sex)isdonewashi nghiscar
    nowhe’ sbusypoli
    shingi
    twhist
    li
    ng, he’sinsi
    de
    hisyar
    dwi ththegateopenedwhilethe
    hosepipeiswateri
    nghislawnoutsidet he
    gate.
    ..
    hisphoneringsandhedoesn’ trecogni
    ze
    thenumber sbutheanswersanyway * *
    *
    Joe:
    Joespeaki
    ng
    *
    **t
    hecal
    l
    erkeepsqui
    et*
    **
    Joe:
    hel
    l
    o??
    ?
    *
    **st
    il
    lnot
    hing*
    **
    Joe:
    eisht
    hisst
    upi
    dnet
    wor
    k..
    ..
    Hel
    l
    o..
    .
    *
    **st
    il
    lnot
    hing*
    **
    Joe:
    eishnxa
    *
    **hedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landcont
    inuedt
    opol
    i
    sh
    hi
    scar
    ..
    .hi
    swi
    fegotoutoft
    hehouse*
    **
    Wi
    fe:
    babyf
    oodi
    sready
    **
    *Joesighedannoyedbyherandhef
    akedhi
    s
    smil
    elookingather
    ***
    Joe:
    im comi
    ngl
    etmef
    ini
    shher
    efi
    rst
    Wi
    fe:
    ok
    *
    **shewenti
    nsi
    dewi
    thherhugebel
    l
    y**
    *
    Joe: all
    sheknowsi stogetpr egnantsoshecan
    eatlikeapi gandf i
    nishmyf oodnxa. .
    ..
    5kidsas
    i
    fshedoesn’ tknowwher eaclini
    cisfor
    preventionnxa...
    may beIshoul dstopsleeping
    withher .
    ..
    .imeani m beingservedsomewher e
    bettersoIdon’ tneedherpussy
    anymor e..
    .nxa..
    .f
    ive.
    ...
    imagineonet wot hr
    ee
    fourf i
    veandi m surebynexty earshe’l
    lbe
    pregnantagai nnxanot hi
    sneedst ostopman
    **
    *hesai
    dtohimselfasheconti
    nuedpol
    ishi
    ng
    hi
    scarannoy
    ed..
    ..
    hisphonerangagai
    nandthis
    t
    imei
    twashi
    sbestf
    ri
    endsoheanswer
    ed*
    **
    Joe:
    Mat
    amel
    a
    Mat
    a:sho-
    shoov
    aar(wher
    ear
    eyou)
    Joe:
    kontl
    ungkebusykat
    ransi
    e(atmyhouse
    i
    m busywi
    thmycar)
    Mat
    a:okar
    ewest
    il
    lmeet
    ingl
    ateron
    Joe:
    forsur
    eman.
    ..
    forsur
    e
    Mat
    a:Ihopey
    out
    houghtaboutwhatIt
    oldy
    ou
    Joe:i
    m notscareofhim man..
    ..i
    ’
    lltakeherr
    ight
    underhisnose.
    ..
    imeanwhost ay sathis
    gi
    rlf
    ri
    end’shouse..
    ..
    onnerrabaki..
    .sbar
    a
    makoti.
    ..
    wannyeladaail
    ait
    ie.
    ..
    .hedoesn’t
    deserv
    emyTshi mo
    Mata:j
    ustt
    readcaref
    ull
    yrememberwedon’
    t
    evenknowwhohei s.
    ..
    hecoul
    dbe
    danger
    ous.
    ..
    .imeandidyouseehi
    stat
    toos
    Joe:
    f*ckhi
    stat
    toos.
    ..
    im notscar
    edofhi
    m
    Mata:
    aial
    ri
    ghtshapI
    ’
    llseey
    oul
    ater
    ..
    .ke
    t
    shwerest
    okosamepako(Ihav
    ehoneyswi
    th
    r
    oundasses)
    *
    **Joewhi
    stl
    edexi
    ted*
    **
    Joe:
    okl
    aterman
    ***Matalaughedandhedr oppedt hecal
    l t
    hen
    outoftheblueJoef r
    ozeandhel ookedonhi s
    chestandhewasbl eeding..
    .anotherbullethit
    hi
    m onhi sstomachandanot heronequi ckl
    yhit
    hi
    m onhi sforeheadandwentoutont heback
    ofhisheadandhef ellt
    othegr ounddeadwi t
    h
    hi
    sey esopened. .
    ..
    .asil
    encerwasusedsot he
    wasnol oudsoundofagun. ...Apassenger
    windowofabl ackcarclosedandt hecardr ove
    off***

    _
    ___
    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL
    ***Al phai sinsideMasai ’spriv
    atewar d
    alone. ..
    heaskedt henur sest ati
    onedt ocaref or
    herdur i
    ngt hedayt ogiv ehim someal onet i
    me
    withher .
    ..
    ..He’smassagi ngherfeetgent l
    ywi th
    l
    ot i
    onmi xedwi t hnat ur
    al herbsfrom his
    Ndumba( Ancest r
    al hut)tohelpwi thbloodflow
    sinceshe’ snotmov ingar oundcauseshe’ si
    n
    ani nducedcoma. ..
    ..he’stell
    i
    ngheraboutt he
    vacat ionhe’spl anningf orthem causeshe
    needsi twhent hedooropensandi ncame
    Stev ens...
    .Alphast oppedwhathe’ sdoingand
    angert ookov erhim ashel ookedathi sy ounger
    brother ..
    ..
    .Stevensj ustlookedatMasai f
    rozen
    andt earsfil
    ledhi sey es***
    Al
    pha:
    whatt
    hehel
    lar
    eyoudoi
    ngher
    e
    St
    evens:
    wil
    lshebeok
    *
    **heaskedl
    ooki
    ngconcer
    ned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Iaskedy
    ouaquest
    ion
    St
    even:
    Mat
    oldme
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    et*
    **
    St
    even:
    whathappened.
    ..
    .wassher
    obbed?
    *
    **heaskedconcer
    ned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    noneofy
    ourbusi
    ness
    Stev
    en:ordi
    dyouhi
    ther
    ..
    .imeany
    ouhav
    ea
    temperandweal
    lknowi
    t
    Al
    pha:
    nkongwangwakosan
    *
    **hesworeathi
    mfor
    get
    ti
    ngt
    heyshar
    ea
    mother
    ***
    Alpha:mak*
    ndeawenanat atanawena..
    .o
    bolabol
    amatjemba.
    ..
    .obol
    abolany*
    pfint
    sena
    nxa
    Stev
    en: okIdon’tunderst
    andyoubutIknow
    you’
    reinsult
    ingme....
    ..
    youseewhati
    mt al
    ki
    ng
    about.
    ..
    y ouhaveat emper
    *
    **Al
    phagotupf
    rom hi
    schai
    rlooki
    ngangr
    y
    andhewentcl
    osert
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whyar
    eyoust
    il
    lher
    e
    Steven:Icar
    eabouthert
    ooandIst
    il
    ll
    oveher
    regardl
    ess
    Alpha:wel
    lshelovesmenowandshe’sover
    younowgobackt othatbabymamayou’
    rest
    il
    l
    f*cki
    ngandstayfarawayf r
    om mywoman
    St
    evens:you’
    renotevenashamed.
    ..
    eat
    ing
    wher
    ey ourbr
    otherat
    e
    Alpha:Iatefirstr
    emember .
    ..
    you’
    retheonethat
    l
    ikeseat i
    ngwher eI’v
    eeatenandplusit’
    sa
    famil
    yt hi
    ngr emembery oustar
    teditandwi
    th
    herim notjusteatingim wi
    fi
    ngaswel l
    *
    **St
    evenscl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Alpha:y
    ou’r
    esti
    l
    laboyStevens.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llshowyou
    howar eal
    womani str
    eatedsogof*ckAids
    ri
    ddenwh*reswit
    hgraveyardwombscause
    that’
    swhatyoul
    ovedoinganddeservetohave
    *
    **St
    evensgr
    abbedAl
    phal
    ett
    ebyhi
    sshi
    rt
    l
    ooki
    ngangry
    ***
    Alpha:
    getyourf*ckenhandsof
    fmeboybef
    ore
    Ihavethem t
    urnedintof
    rogs
    *
    **St
    evensl
    etgoofhi
    m**
    *
    St
    evens:acowardwhoal
    way
    sthr
    eat
    ensme
    wi
    thwitchcr
    aft
    Alpha:
    saysamanwhohi
    desunderdaddy
    ’s
    ball
    sallt
    hedamnt
    ime
    St
    evens:
    atl
    eastIhav
    eone
    Al
    pha:
    notf
    orl
    ong
    *
    **St
    evensf
    rowned*
    **
    St
    evens:
    whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    Al
    pha:
    not
    hingnowleav
    e..
    .y
    ourbadaur
    awi
    l
    l
    makemywomansick
    Stev
    ens:whatdidyousayaboutmyf
    ather
    Shangaankwerekwer
    eboy
    ***
    Alphalett
    egrabbedStevensbyhisshirtand
    pushedhimt owardsthedoorwithhimtryingto
    getofhisholdbutitwasaf ut
    il
    ethingto
    do..
    ..
    heopenedt hedoorandpushedhi m
    outsi
    dehar dandhelandedonhi sbutt
    ..
    .nurses
    j
    umpedst ar
    tl
    ed***
    Alpha:t
    hisbastardshoul
    dnev erbeall
    owedin
    hereorI’
    llhaveanyonewho’sondut ywhenhe’
    s
    all
    owedinagai nfi
    redandblackl
    ist
    edallov
    er
    thecountr
    y .
    ..
    .That’
    showmuchpowerIhav e.
    ..
    .
    nowcallsecurit
    ytothrowthistr
    ashoutnow
    nxa!!
    !
    ***t
    henhewenti nsidethepr i
    vatehighcare
    war dandwentst raighttothebat hr
    oom tocalm
    himsel fdown. ..
    ..Thosewor ds“Shangaan
    kwer ekwer eboy ”arepar tofhistraumatic
    verbal abuser ender edbySt evensandhisf at
    her
    growi ngup. .
    ..
    Hedi dgot otherapybutthose
    wor dsal wayst r
    iggersomet hi
    ngi n
    him....
    scratcheshi swoundsev enthoughthey
    hav
    eheal
    ed*
    **
    Alpha: calm downNt sako..
    ..
    soony ougonna
    rej
    oice...
    .seeingpaininhiseyes..
    .seei
    nghim
    breakingdownwi llbefulf
    il
    li
    ngandt heworst
    partisy ouwon’ tberesponsibl
    eforanyofitso
    calm downThambol enyoka.
    ...
    ***hesaidlookingathimselfont
    hemirr
    or..
    ..he
    thensawhi sfatherstandi
    ngbehi
    ndhim and
    theylockedeyesf orsomet i
    meandhe
    disappeared.
    ..
    .Alphalookeddownandsi
    ghed
    thenhewentbackt oMasai **
    *

    _
    ___

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    *
    **He’st
    akinganapinhi
    sbedr oom.
    ..
    aft
    erLol
    l
    y
    l
    efthetr
    iedtokeephi
    mselfbusywit
    hsome
    paperwor kbuthi smi ndr efusedto
    concentrate.
    ..
    .sohedeci dedt ogot akeanapt o
    reboothisbrainandmay behecangetsome
    workdonecausehi sempl oyeesneedst oget
    paidinacoupl eofday s..
    ..
    .Nowhe’ sdr eaming
    ofhislatebabygi rlholdinghi shandst i
    ght
    cryi
    ngt r
    yingtopul lhim outoft hedar kholehe
    sli
    ppedandf ellinto..
    ..
    he’shol di
    ngont othe
    edgeoft hehol esohedoesn’ tdropinsideand
    Jabuli
    leistryi
    ngt opul lhim outwi t
    hhert iny
    hands* **
    Li
    l
    e:papa.
    ..
    papa.
    .phuma(
    comeout
    )
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Li
    l
    e:papaphuma
    **
    *hecoul
    dfeel
    himsel
    fsl
    i
    ppi
    ngi
    nsi
    de
    sl
    owly
    ***
    Lil
    e:nooobhut
    ilet
    shel
    ppapa.
    ..
    .bhut
    isheshi
    sa
    (br
    otherhur
    ryup)
    *
    **Jabuwant
    edt
    osaysomet
    hingbuthi
    sli
    ps
    fel
    tliketheyaregluedt oget hersotearsj
    ustfel
    l
    uncontroll
    ably
    ..
    ..
    het henf eltahandgr abbinghi
    s
    l
    egi nsidethedarkholepul linghim down
    roughlyandhef el
    l i
    nsidet hedar kholetr
    yingto
    scream outloudbuthi slipsst i
    llf
    eltgl
    ued
    together**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER20
    .
    .
    .

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    ***He’stakinganapi nhi sbedr oom. .


    .aft
    erLoll
    y
    l
    efthet r
    iedt okeephi msel fbusywi thsome
    paperwor kbuthi smi ndr efusedto
    concentrate..
    ..
    sohedeci dedt ogot akeanapt o
    reboothisbr ainandmay behecangetsome
    wor kdonecausehi sempl oyeesneedst oget
    paidinacoupl eofday s..
    ..
    .Nowhe’ sdr eaming
    ofhislatebabygi rlholdinghi shandst i
    ght
    cryi
    ngt r
    yingt opullhim outoft hedar kholehe
    sli
    ppedandf elli
    nto..
    ..
    he’shol di
    ngont othe
    edgeoft hehol esohedoesn’ tdropinsideand
    Jabuli
    leistryingtopul lhim outwi t
    hhert iny
    hands* **
    Li
    l
    e:papa.
    ..
    papa.
    .phuma(
    comeout
    )
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Li
    l
    e:papaphuma
    **
    *hecoul
    dfeel
    himsel
    fsl
    i
    ppi
    ngi
    nsi
    de
    sl
    owly
    ***
    Lil
    e:nooobhut
    ilet
    shel
    ppapa.
    ..
    .bhut
    isheshi
    sa
    (br
    otherhur
    ryup)
    ***Jabuwant edtosaysomet hingbuthislips
    fel
    tliketheyaregluedt oget hersotearsjustfel
    l
    uncontroll
    ably.
    ..
    .hethenf eltahandgr abbinghis
    l
    egi nsidethedarkholepul linghim down
    roughlyandhef elli
    nsidet hedar kholetr
    y i
    ngt o
    scream outloudbuthi slipsst i
    llf
    eltgl
    ued
    together**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    JABUWAKEUP!
    !!
    ***
    Av oi
    cesaidtohi
    m ashe’
    sfal
    li
    nginsi
    dethe
    hol
    e..
    .heknowsthevoi
    cebutwit
    hhowscar ed
    heishecan’tqui
    temakesur
    ewhoi tbel
    ongs
    to*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    Isai
    dwakeupdamni
    t!
    !!
    ***hef el
    tli
    kehewasbei ngsl appedonhi s
    cheek...
    ..
    nowhecant ell
    he’sdr eamingbecause
    thevoicekeepssay ingheshoul dwakeup. .
    ..
    He
    tri
    edt owakeupbuthecoul dn’t
    ,hef eltl
    i
    kehis
    soulisleavinghisbodyashest rugglesto
    breathe..
    ..
    Het henfeltagushofwat erpour i
    ng
    alloverhimf r
    om abov eashekeptonf al
    li
    ng
    i
    nsidet hedarkholet henhewokeupgaspi ng
    forair.
    ..
    Hej umpedfrom t hebedr unningaway
    whilehe’sbusygaspi ngf orairbutCast i
    el
    stoppedhi m..
    ..hef
    oughtt ogetoutofCast i
    el’
    s
    holdbutt heVampi sst rongert hanhim* **
    Cast
    iel
    :st
    opi
    tit
    ’smeCass!
    !!
    **
    *hestoppedfight
    ingandrai
    sedhi
    seyeswi
    th
    hi
    sbodyv i
    sibl
    yshakingandtheymetwi
    th
    Cast
    iel
    ’
    scoldey es***
    Casti
    el:
    cal
    m downbef
    orey
    ouhav
    eahear
    t
    at
    tack
    Rusl
    an:
    breat
    hei
    nandoutsl
    owl
    y
    ***
    hesaidashewalkedar
    oundt hebedr
    oom
    wit
    haser i
    ousl
    ookonhisface.
    ..
    .Casti
    elhel
    ped
    Jabutositont
    hebedbutbefor
    eJabucoul dsi
    t
    Ruslanst
    oppedhi
    m* **
    Rusl
    an:
    don’
    tsi
    tther
    e
    *
    **t
    heyst
    opped*
    **
    Rusl
    an:
    hecansi
    tont
    hecouch
    ***
    Cast i
    eltookawetJabut othecouchand
    Jabuslowl ysatdownwi pinghi sf acewi thhi
    s
    wett-shi
    rt..
    ..
    Het ookof ft het -shirtand
    conti
    nuedt owi pehi sfacewi thhisbodyst i
    ll
    shakingfrom fear...
    .Hecoul dn’tbelievethat
    wasjustadr eam. ..
    Itfeltreal tohim, hesawhi s
    daughterandheev enfelthert ouch.Shewas
    tr
    yingtosav ehim andhecoul dn’tbel i
    eve
    i
    t..
    ..
    Heputt heshi rtonhi sf aceandhe
    sobbed..
    ..Casti
    el squeezedhi sshoul dergentl
    y
    tr
    yingnott obreaki tashecomf ortedhi m***
    Cast
    iel
    :i
    tsokman.
    ..
    it
    sok
    Rusl
    an:whowasi
    nher
    ewho’
    snotsupposedt
    o
    behere
    **
    * Jabust
    oppedcry
    ingandhesni
    ff
    edand
    wipedhisfacet
    henheclear
    edhi
    sthroat
    ***
    Jabu:Amo.
    ..
    .shecameescort
    edbyt
    wopol
    i
    ce
    off
    icer
    stot
    akeherbel
    ongings
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    laughed*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :youj
    oki
    ngr
    ight
    ***
    Jabushookhi
    sheadnoandRusl
    anj
    ust
    shookhi
    shead**
    *
    Rusl
    an:
    tel
    lmey
    oucomei
    nher
    ewi
    thher
    ***
    heaskedsti
    ll
    mov i
    ngaroundthebedroom
    openi
    ngall
    thecupboardsandthewalluni
    t
    wardr
    obedoors***
    Jabu:
    no.
    ..
    *
    ***
    hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:shetoldt
    hepoli
    cethatIhaveatemper
    sotheywantedhert
    oenteralone“forsaf
    ety
    purposes”
    Cast
    iel:
    sheplannedevery
    thi
    ngperfect
    ly.
    ..
    wel
    l
    hermistakei
    ssheforgotaboutus
    *
    **Jabuf
    rownedconf
    used*
    **
    Jabu:
    what
    ’sgoi
    ngon
    Ruslan:
    you’
    rel
    osi
    ngy
    ourpl
    otJabuandi
    m not
    happywithy
    ou
    ***
    Jabul ookedathi
    m wi
    thhi
    sredey
    es
    confused***
    Casti
    el:
    youhavebecomeweak...
    .Losi
    ng
    pri
    ncessmadey ouvul
    ner
    ableandseem weak
    manandi t
    snoton..
    ..
    youneedtofindyour
    sel
    f
    agai
    nman. .
    ..
    thi
    sisnoton
    Jabu:whati
    sgoingon.
    ..
    .whatdi
    dAmo
    pl
    an..
    ..
    skhi
    phani(what
    ’sgoingon)
    Rusl
    an:
    sheputj
    ujui
    nher
    e
    Jabu:
    juj
    u??
    ..
    ..
    juj
    ukemangby
    anong(who’
    sjuj
    u)
    Cast
    iel
    :mut
    hiy
    out
    aikop(y
    ouf
    ool
    )
    *
    **Jabuf
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngf
    rom Casst
    oRuu*
    **
    Jabu:
    what
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thal
    owt
    one*
    **
    Casti
    el:youshouldn’thaveletherent erthe
    housealoneJabuman. ...
    whereisy ourmot her
    ,
    whydidn’tyourmot hergoupst air
    swi th
    her.
    ..
    .t
    hatb* i
    tchi
    sr esponsibleforprincesses
    deathandy oustil
    ll
    etheri nyourhouse. ..
    why
    di
    dn’tyoupackhersh* tyoursel
    fandhav ethem
    deli
    veredtowhereshest ays.
    ..
    .youhadal lthe
    ti
    mei nthewor l
    dtodot hatmanei sh
    *
    **Jabudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :you’
    rest
    art
    ingt
    opissmeof f
    now..
    ..
    dealwi
    thherorI
    ’
    lldoi
    tforyou..
    .i
    nfact
    youknowwhat,l
    eavehertomeI’l
    ldealwit
    hher
    myself
    *
    **t
    heyhear
    dsomeoner
    unni
    ngupt
    hest
    air
    s**
    *
    Heat
    h:Jabu.
    ..
    .Jabu!
    !!
    *
    **hesaidscreami
    nghi
    snameasher
    ant
    othe
    mainbedroom***
    Rusl
    an:
    don’
    tent
    ert
    her
    oom Heat
    h
    **
    *hesaidst
    oppi
    nghi
    m onhi
    str
    acksout
    side
    bythedoor
    ***
    Heat
    h:wher
    e’sJabu.
    ..
    .eehJav
    as?
    ???
    Jabu:
    kegr
    andj
    oh(i
    m good)
    **
    *Heat
    hbendhisbodydownwar
    dsandhel
    d
    hi
    skneesbr
    eat
    hingoutrel
    i
    eved*
    **
    Heat
    h:f
    *ck!
    !!
    **
    *het
    ookouthi
    sphoneandcal
    l
    edhi
    s
    gr
    andmot
    her*
    **
    Gogo:
    Shaka
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thashakyv
    oice*
    **
    Heat
    h:he’
    sokgogo.
    ..
    Rusl
    anandCast
    iel
    got
    her
    efi
    rst
    *
    **gogobr
    eat
    hedoutr
    eli
    eved*
    **
    Gogo:
    oohNkosi
    yam ngi
    yabonga(oohmyGod
    t
    hankyou)
    Heat
    h:I
    ’
    llupdat
    eyoulat
    ersthandwasam.
    ..
    .l
    et
    mefi
    ndoutwhathappened
    Gogo:oktel
    lhi
    mt ocal
    lme.
    ..
    .noLor
    rai
    nei
    s
    worr
    iedabouthi
    m
    Heath:
    don’
    tal
    l
    owhertocomeher
    easofy
    etI
    ’
    ll
    t
    elly
    ouwhenshecancome
    Gogo:
    okmyboy
    ..
    .kul
    ungi
    l
    e..
    ..
    *
    **t
    henheendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Heat
    h:Ruuwhat
    ’sgoi
    ngon
    Ruslan:yourbr
    otherdoesn’tli
    stent hat’
    swhat’s
    goingon...
    .Hel
    etAmoi nsidehi shouseal one
    andshedi dthi
    ngsinhere..
    .callthattradi
    ti
    onal
    healerf
    ri
    endofy ourshere.
    ...
    thisroom needs
    cl
    eansingbeforeIcandomyt hi
    ngs. .
    ..
    itr
    eeks
    wi
    tchcr
    aft
    Heat
    h:youal
    lowedAmot
    oent
    ery
    ourhouse
    al
    oneJabul
    ani!
    !!
    ***
    heshout edandJabudidn’tsay
    anythi
    ng.
    ..
    .Jabucoul
    dn’tbel
    ieveheletherr
    uin
    andhurthi
    m again**
    *
    Casti
    el:
    you’
    ll
    shoutathi
    mlater
    ..
    ..
    fornowcal
    l
    thatmermantocomeandcleansehere
    *
    **Heat
    hkeptqui
    etcal
    mingdown*
    **
    Heat
    h:Ican’
    tbel
    i
    evehel
    etherent
    ert
    hehouse
    al
    onenxa
    Ruslan:Heathcalm downandbri
    ngrubbish
    bagsweneedt otakeoutal
    lofJabu’
    sclothes,
    shoesandundi esbutyou’
    renotal
    lowedinhere
    unti
    lit
    scleansed
    Heat
    h:ok
    *
    **hewentdownst
    air
    s**
    *
    Jabu:
    why
    *
    **hesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :youhav
    enor
    ightt
    oaskwhy
    Jabu:uyany
    awena.
    ..
    doyouknowhow
    expensi
    vemycl
    othesar
    e
    Casti
    el:
    wel
    ltheywi
    l
    lbebur
    nedsomakepeace
    wit
    hit
    Jabu:
    don’
    tpl
    ayl
    i
    ket
    hatman
    Rusl
    an:
    stopi
    tCass
    Cass:why
    ..
    ..
    imeanweshoul
    dpuni
    shhi
    m by
    burni
    nghi
    sclot
    hes
    Jabu:saysamanwear i
    ngski
    nnyjeanska
    potr
    isiekareodlal
    arugby(
    withcalfmuscl
    es
    asifyouplayr
    ugby)
    Cass:
    tseksboshwa(j
    ail
    bir
    d).
    ..
    weshoul
    d’
    vel
    et
    hi
    m di
    eRuu
    Heat
    h:her
    etheyar
    e
    *
    **Rusl
    anwentt
    otaket
    hebi
    gbl
    ackpl
    ast
    ic
    bagsandgav
    ethem t
    oCast
    iel
    ***
    Ruu:
    you’
    l
    lfi
    ndusdownst
    air
    s
    *
    **Cassnodded*
    **
    Rusl
    an:
    let
    ’sgo
    **
    *hesaidtoJabuandJabul
    ookedat
    Cast
    iel
    ***
    Jabu:don’tbur
    nmyclot
    hesmankaof r
    aiza(i
    m
    beggingyou)somearel
    imit
    edaddi
    ti
    onand
    theyhavesenti
    ment
    alval
    uejoh
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    smi
    rked*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :l
    ookwho’
    sbeggi
    ng
    Jabu:mar
    aCass-Casssaichunadaidengkao
    fr
    aizaj
    oh(don’
    tdoitim beggingy
    ou)
    Rusl
    an:
    let
    ’sgo.
    ..
    .hewon’
    tbur
    nthem he’
    s
    pl
    ayi
    ngwit
    hy ou
    Jabu:
    mxm kukuy
    agaoy
    aobol
    aCass
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    laughedoutl
    oudasJabuandRusl
    an
    walkedout.
    ..
    .t
    heywentdownst
    air
    swi
    th
    Heath**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    **
    *Alphal
    ettewal
    ksoutofMasai
    ’sr
    oom when
    hi
    sphoneringsandi
    tsHeat
    h***
    Al
    pha:
    heyman
    Heat
    h:shoman.
    ..
    howar
    eyou.
    ..
    how’
    smadam
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    l
    lbef
    ine.
    ..
    she’
    saf
    ight
    ert
    hisone
    Heat
    h:that
    ’sgood.
    ..l
    ookIneedaf
    avourman..
    ..
    i
    knowyou’r
    egoingthrought
    ought
    imeswith
    madam inhospi
    tal
    butJabuneedsyourhel
    p
    man
    Al
    pha:
    iml
    i
    steni
    ng
    ***
    hesaidashewalkedt
    othewait
    ingarea
    chai
    rsandsatdownandHeatht
    oldhim what
    happened*
    **
    Alpha:Iknewsomet
    hingwasupbutwi t
    hthe
    waymymi ndi
    soverworki
    ngsinceMasaii
    s
    hospit
    ali
    zedandGazareachi
    ngout.
    ..
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:Ij
    ustdidn’
    thav
    eti
    met oconsul
    twit
    h
    vhokokwane( myAncest
    ors)tofi
    ndoutwher
    e
    thebadfeeli
    ngIhadwascomi ngfr
    om
    *
    **hesi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    sneck*
    **
    Al
    pha:Ij
    ustt
    houghtt
    hebadf
    eel
    i
    ngi
    sabout
    Masai
    orGaza
    Heat
    h:don’
    tworryabouti
    tIunder
    stand
    man.
    ..
    you’
    restr
    essedsodon’tworr
    yabouti
    t
    pl
    usCasti
    elandRuslangother
    einti
    me
    Al
    pha:
    howi
    she
    Heat
    h:al
    i
    vebutshaken
    Alpha: kahlekahlethatwomanol av
    atil
    o
    ri
    ngobaahenhl akanhl okorihuma
    halephambeni (act
    uallythatwomanneedst o
    behi tbylightni
    ngont opoft heheadandi t
    shoul dcomeoutofherpr i
    vates.
    ..nxaxi
    t*mbo
    xay enaman. ...
    anywaywhatcanIdot ohel
    p
    Heat
    h:Ruusai
    dsomet
    hingaboutcl
    eansi
    ng
    Alpha:yah..
    .thewholehouseneedscleansi
    ng
    notjusthisbedr oom.
    ..
    .l
    etmegohomeand
    consultonhowIshoul dperfor
    mt he
    cl
    eansing...
    ..I’
    l
    lseeyoulat
    er
    Heat
    h:t
    hanksman.
    ..
    ThokozaKhehl
    a!
    Al
    pha:
    Thokoza!
    *
    **t
    heyendedcallandasAlphal
    ett
    ewasabout
    t
    ostanduphesawDor is,
    VeeandHi l
    l
    swalki
    ng
    t
    ohim..
    ..
    Dori
    slookedli
    kethewholeworl
    dwas
    onhershoul
    der
    s..
    ..
    shel
    ooksl
    i
    ket
    her
    e’snol
    i
    fe
    l
    efti
    nher***
    Dor
    is:
    myboy
    **
    *shehuggedhi
    m andheexchanged
    gr
    eet
    ingswit
    hHil
    l
    sandVee***
    Dori
    s:VeeandHil
    l
    syoucangoinandseeMasa
    Ineedtotal
    ktoAl
    phaaboutsomet
    hing
    **
    *Theynoddedandwal
    kedawayandshe
    si
    ghedandsatdownsodidAl
    phal
    ett
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    isev
    ery
    thi
    ngokma
    Dor
    is:
    Ineedy
    ourhel
    pson
    Al
    pha:
    oki
    mli
    steni
    ng
    *
    **Dor
    issi
    ghed*
    **
    Dori
    s: whati
    m aboutt otel
    lyouisaf ami
    ly
    secretandIneedy ourhelpandIalsoneedt o
    knowi fwhat
    ’shappeni ngbetweenthetwinsis
    becauseofit.
    ..
    .i
    mt ell
    ingyouasy ourpat
    ient
    andy ouasmyt radit
    ionhealernotmy
    daught
    er’
    sboy
    fri
    end
    ***
    hesi ghedhedidn’tl
    ikebei
    ngcal
    l
    edher
    boyfr
    iend..
    .ri
    ghtatthismomentheknewhe
    needstochanget hat***
    Al
    pha:
    Iunder
    standma
    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    elookedathercur
    iousl
    ywai
    ti
    ngf
    or
    hertotal
    kandDorissi
    ghed***
    Dor
    is:
    youseemyson. ..
    thetwi
    ns’
    motherandI
    wer
    etwins..
    ..
    andIwasbor namal
    e..
    ..
    insi
    mple
    t
    ermsimt r
    ansgender
    ***
    Alphalett
    erai
    sedhiseyebr
    ows
    surpri
    sed..
    ..
    well
    nottoosurpr
    isedcausehe
    couldtel
    lsomethingwasoffabouther.
    ..
    .y
    es
    shedoesn’thaveanyfeat
    uresthatshowthat
    shewasbor namal ebuthervoice.
    ..
    mhmh* **
    Al
    pha:
    ummhohk
    Dor
    is:i
    m gl
    adwegotthatoutoft
    he
    way.
    ..
    ..
    anywayourmot
    herwasnotani
    ce
    person.
    ..
    shewaspr et
    entious,envi
    ousanda
    j
    ealousperson. .
    ..
    irememberr el
    ati
    veswould
    comet ovisitusandshewoul dseem happyto
    seethem,t heywoul dbet alki
    ngandlaughing
    andthemomentt heyleav eshewouldsaynasty
    thi
    ngaboutt hem, cursingatthem andlaughi
    ng
    atthei
    rmisf ort
    unes
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Doris:t
    henouraunthert wi ngotsick,shegot
    di
    agnosedwi t
    hdiabetesandourmot hertook
    herinsinceherhusbandwaswor kingandout
    oftheblueshedi edmy steri
    ousl
    yandev er
    yone
    stoppedv i
    sit
    ingusort al
    kingtous....
    .r
    umours
    ofourmot herkil
    l
    ingourauntwentar oundand
    wet houghttheyarejustrumoursandusel ess
    gossipbut..
    ..
    *
    **shesi
    ghedshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Dor
    is:t
    woyearsl
    aterourmot
    hergotsi
    ckand
    wefoundoutt
    hatshe’
    sHIVposi
    ti
    veandshe
    didn’
    ttakehermedi cat
    ion.
    ...
    evenafterwe
    foundoutshestil
    lrefusedt r
    eatmentandshe
    endedupdy ingbutbeforeshedi edshetol
    dus
    thatnowshecanf inall
    yrestcausehert wi
    nhas
    beentroubl
    ingherinherdr eams...
    .
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Dor i
    s:Aft
    erherburialMmamogol o(el destaunt)
    toldmet hatourmot herfedhertwinslow
    poisonwhenshewassi cksothatwhenshe
    diestheywillsayi
    twast hedi
    abetesthatkil
    led
    her..
    .anditwasallbecauseofaman. ...
    her
    twin’shusband
    ***
    Al phal
    ett
    ecl
    osedhi
    sey
    esandopenedt
    hem
    again***
    Doris:shesaidshewentt oconsul
    tsecretl
    y
    causet hei
    rsist
    erwasnotget t
    inganybetter
    andourmot herwasagainstt
    hatidea.
    ..
    theytol
    d
    herhert wi
    ni stheonekil
    li
    ngherwithsl
    ow
    poison,sosheconf ront
    edmom andmom l ost
    i
    tandt oldherhertwin’
    shusbandwas
    supposedt oherssinceshesawhimfir
    stand
    hertwi
    ni sevilf
    orsnatchi
    ngamant hatwas
    meantf orhersoshedeservestodi
    eslowlyand
    pai
    nfull
    y
    *
    **shewi
    pedhert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Doris:whatt heydi dn’tknowi shert winwas
    l
    istening.
    ..t
    heyhear dsomet hingf all
    ingbehi nd
    them andwhent heyl ookeditwasourmot her’
    s
    twin..
    ..
    andast heycal ledanambul ancef orher
    that’
    swhenshecur sedmom. ..
    .bef oreshet ook
    herlastbreat hshesai dallt
    het wingi r
    lsfrom
    mom’ sli
    nagewi llkilleachothersl owlyand
    painfull
    yjustlikesheki ll
    edher.
    ..Mom di dn’t
    takewhatshesai dser iousl
    ybutMmamogol o
    did
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    sbear
    d**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    wher
    eist
    hehusband
    Dor
    is:
    hewasbr
    okenmyson.
    ..
    I’
    venev
    erseena
    mancryl
    ikethat
    ..
    ..
    soaft
    eraunty
    ’sbur
    ial
    hel
    eft
    andweneverheardfr
    om hi
    m again
    Alpha:he’
    sstil
    lali
    veandheknowswhat
    happenedtohi swif
    eandhe’ssti
    llhol
    dinga
    grudgeagainstyourmother
    ..
    ..
    .hi
    sgrudgeis
    whatissti
    llkeepi
    ngthecurseworking
    ***
    Dori
    scl
    osedherey
    esandsheshookher
    head*
    **
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandr
    ubbedhi
    sfor
    ehead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    eish
    Doris:
    Ihadaf al
    loutwithMoer aandt hethings
    shesaidaboutMasai ar
    ewor ri
    some. ...
    she
    thi
    nksIloveMasai morethanher .
    ..
    thatIdon’t
    giv
    ehert heatt
    enti
    onshedeser ves,sheev en
    saidshehatesMasai...
    .ever
    ythi
    ngi sjusttoo
    muchson. .
    ..
    idon’
    tevenknowwher etost art
    fi
    xingthi
    ngs
    *
    **shesi
    ghedwi
    thaheav
    yhear
    t**
    *
    Doris:.
    ..
    kamoIoncewentt oconsul
    tandIev en
    paidthesangomaal otofmoneyandhedi da
    ri
    tualandsaidthecur sehasbeenl i
    ft
    ed..
    ..I
    beli
    evedhim andrelaxedt hi
    nkingal
    liswellbut
    nowIseet hatoldfool l
    ied..
    ..
    nxahe’
    sluckyhe’s
    dead
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ekeptqui
    etst
    ari
    ngi
    ntospace*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    Alpha
    **
    *stil
    lnot
    hingthensheshookhi
    m andhe
    bl
    inkedrepeat
    edlythenhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alphalette:im gonnabef r
    ankwithyouma. .
    ..
    thepr oblem hererightatthismomenti sy our
    daught erdatingandl usti
    ngov erwrongmen. ..
    .
    Moer al i
    kesdat i
    ngmar r
    iedmenort aken
    men. .
    ..she’smost l
    yat t
    ractedtothem than
    singleguy sandqui tefranklysomemar ried
    womenoutt herepr aydangerousprayersma
    andwi l
    lresortstodanger ousway stoprotect
    theirhomesandmar r
    iages
    Dor
    is:
    wai
    twhat
    ..
    ..
    *
    **sheasksshocked*
    **
    Alphalette:i
    m nott ry
    ingt ospeaki l
    lofherbut
    she’sbeensl eepingwi t
    ht hewr ongmant hi s
    ti
    mear ound. .
    ..
    thewifefoundsomet hingt hat
    belongst oherandi t
    ’sani ntimat ethi
    ng...yes
    thecur seisst i
    llt
    hereandi tssl owlybuildingup
    butit’
    snott hemai nfactoratt his
    moment ...
    .t
    hatwomandi dherr esearchand
    foundoutal lsheneedst oknowaboutMoer a
    andsheknowshowt odest royhercompl et el
    y..
    ..
    eventhemar ri
    edmanhasl ostintereston
    Moer a. .
    .youcanaskedherhehasn’ tcalledher
    i
    nawhi l
    enow
    ***
    Dori
    slookedatAl
    phal
    ett
    eincompl
    ete
    shock*
    **
    Al
    pha:asforherf
    eel
    i
    ngneglect
    edthathappens
    i
    nmostfami l
    i
    esandther
    apymighthel
    p..
    ..
    i
    meanIalsogrewupfeel
    i
    ngli
    kethatsowecan’t
    bl
    amet
    hecur
    sef
    ort
    hat
    Alpha:wheny ouhavetimecomet omyhouse
    andwewi llseewhatwecandot odealwiththe
    curse..
    .it
    hinkIknowhowt oendthiscursefor
    goodbutasf orMoera...
    sheneedscleansi
    ng
    andaser iousonei nfactal
    lofyouneedone. .
    .
    Moer aneedst ochangeherway sma. .
    ..
    **
    *hecoul
    dn’
    ttel
    lheraboutMoer
    alust
    ingov
    er
    hi
    m***
    Alpha:fornowIneedt ogoseeanotherpati
    ent
    ofmi nethentomorrowIneedtotakemy
    brotherhome...
    .he’
    sbeenmissi
    ngforsome
    ti
    meandhel osthismemorynowher egainedi
    t
    andr eachedoutsoIneedtotakehim back
    home
    **
    *Dori
    sswallowedandshesighed.
    ..
    .hermi
    nd
    wasonMoer adati
    ngmar r
    iedmen..
    ..
    ”WasAlex
    marr
    iedtoo”shethought
    ***
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:ma?
    ??
    *
    **shecl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Dori
    s:y
    e..
    .y
    esI
    ’
    llcomet
    oyourhousewheny
    ou
    ar
    eback
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    enodded*
    **
    Alphal
    ett
    e:l
    etmegoandpr
    epar
    emythi
    ngs.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    ll
    comeseeMasaibefor
    eIl
    eavet
    omor
    rowandI’
    ll
    bri
    ngAJt oo
    *
    **Dor
    isnodded*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    thanky
    ou
    *
    **shehel
    dhi
    shand*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    keepi
    ntouch
    ***shenoddedandl
    etgoofhi
    shandandhe
    gotupandwalkedaway*
    **
    Dor
    is:y
    hoJehovahwaNasar
    etha.
    ..
    .kal
    ekwaor
    kat
    lhol
    lwanah
    _
    ___

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    I
    NTHELOUNGE

    Rusl
    an:
    let
    ’st
    alk
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    sface*
    **
    Ruslan:i
    tsei
    thery
    ouforgi
    veAmoandseepast
    herevil
    deedsortakeheroutofy
    ourli
    fefor
    goodbecausewecan’tgoaroundinci
    rcl
    esli
    ke
    thi
    sman
    Heat
    h:seepastwhat
    ..
    ..hel
    lnosheneedst
    ogo
    Rusl
    an:
    it’
    shi
    sdeci
    sionHeat
    hnoty
    our
    s
    Heat
    h:t
    henhebet
    termaket
    her
    ightonecause
    hmmm
    *
    **hechuckl
    edl
    ooki
    ngpi
    ssedof
    f**
    *
    Rusl
    an:
    whati
    sitgonnabej
    abu
    Jabu:
    whatdi
    dshedo
    Heat
    h:y
    ou’r
    esti
    ll
    asking.
    ...
    youhaveti
    met oask
    st
    upi
    dquesti
    onsJabuafterwhathappened
    Jabu:
    eishvaagmankengkawena(ei
    shst
    op
    manwhat ’
    swrongwi
    thyou)
    Heat
    h:Ishoul
    dbeaski
    ngy
    out
    hat
    !!
    !
    Rusl
    an:
    guy
    spl
    easenotnow
    *
    **Casscamedownst
    air
    s**
    *
    Heat h:noRuui m si ckandt iredofJabu
    protecti
    ngthatbi tch..
    .youthi nkyou’retheonl y
    onehur torbrokenbyLi l
    ebei ngkil
    ledl i
    ket hat
    huh...wel
    lnewsf lashwear eal lhurtand
    broken...
    .wealll
    ov ethatlit
    tlegirl
    ..
    ..
    .event oday
    Lesedi asksmeabouther ,aboutwhenshe’ ll
    comeback. .
    ..
    Sbui sawal kingshellofhi msel f
    becausehel ovedhi sli
    ttl
    esi stersomuch. ..
    .
    Naledi i
    snowov erpr otecti
    v eofourki ds,she
    wakesupcountl
    essti
    mesinthemiddl
    eofthe
    ni
    ghttocheckonthel
    it
    tl
    eonestoseeift
    hey
    ar
    estil
    lal
    ive
    Cast
    iel
    :cal
    m downHeat
    h
    Heath:don’
    ttel
    lmet ocalm downCass. .
    ..
    i
    underst
    andhe’shurtandIwi l
    lnev ersetti
    me
    forhi
    mt ohealorforhimt oacceptherdeat h.
    ..
    .i
    underst
    andhe’ssti
    llhurt
    ..
    .igetallthatbutwhen
    i
    tcomest oAmoIwon’ tunderstandshit.
    ..
    .i
    wantherdeadorgonef r
    om ourl i
    vesandt hat
    ’s
    i
    t
    ***
    Jabusi
    ghedandcl
    enchedhi
    sjawsl
    ooki
    ng
    down**
    *
    Rusl
    an:
    herdeat
    hwon’
    tbr
    ingbackLi
    l
    eHeat
    h
    Heat
    h:i
    twi
    l
    lmakemehappy
    Jabu:thi
    sisnotaboutyouHeat
    h..
    .t
    hisi
    snot
    someLer at
    oshit.
    ..
    .she’
    ssti
    l
    lmywifeev
    en
    thoughIdon’twantherback
    Heath: awif
    ethatf uckedanotherman...
    awife
    thatwantedtochangey outosomeoney ou’
    re
    not..
    ..
    awifethatembar r
    assedyoui nfr
    ontof
    hersandy ourfamily..
    ..
    awifethathasahandi n
    yourdaughter’
    sdeat h..
    ..awif
    et hatfor
    ced
    herselfonyou.
    ..shouldIgoon
    *
    **Rusl
    ansighedandhegotupandwent
    t
    owardsthekit
    chen*
    **
    Heath:you’r
    ebeingselfi
    shJabu. .
    ..
    y oudon’t
    evenputy oursel
    finSbu’
    sshoes. ..
    .hemi sses
    hisfat
    her,youronlysonhasr esortedtomov e
    aroundhousesofhi sunclescausehef eels
    l
    onelyinthishousecausehehat esseeingy ou
    l
    ikethi
    s...
    causehef eel
    sneglected
    Jabu:
    ENOUGH!
    !!
    Heat
    h:F*CKYOU.
    ..
    .IHOPESHEKI
    LLSYOU
    NEXTTIMENX
    ***
    hegotupandst
    art
    edwal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    he
    door*
    **
    Cass:
    Heat
    hcomeon.
    ..
    ***Heignoredhim andwalkedoutslamming
    thedooronhi swayoutandCasssi ghed
    l
    ooki ngatRuuwho’ sst
    andingbythekit
    chen
    entranceholdingabeer***

    _
    ___
    _

    STI
    LLATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    Ruu:
    im st
    il
    lwai
    ti
    ngJabu
    Jabu:
    whatdi
    dshedo
    ***
    Ruusighedandhewal
    kedt
    othem andsat
    down**
    *
    Ruu:pouredmut hi
    underthemat t
    ressandon
    al
    lyourclothesandshoes..
    .isawsomeonebutI
    wasn’tsureofwhom thepersonwast hat
    ’swhy
    Iaskedyouwhowasi
    nyourbedr
    oom t
    hat
    shouldn’
    tbet
    her
    e
    *
    **Jabubr
    eat
    hedoutcal
    minghi
    msel
    fdown*
    **
    Jabu:
    what’st
    hepur
    poseoft
    hatmut
    hi.
    ..
    whati
    s
    i
    tsupposedtodot
    ome
    Ruu:
    tomakey
    ouandLol
    l
    yfi
    ght
    ..
    ..
    Cass: putitstraightf
    orwar dman. .
    ..
    itwasf or
    yout obeatt heshi toutofLollystraightt
    o
    death...
    .i
    schithoJabu. ..
    .ischi
    thosokut hi
    ubulaleuLolly..
    .Shehat esLoll
    ywi thheralland
    blamesherf orherf ai
    ledmar ri
    age...
    .ithi
    nkshe
    can’tstomachLol lyli
    vingherlif
    e
    Ruu:i
    fwedidn’twakeyouupyouweregoi
    ngto
    beunderhercontr
    ol.
    ..
    ..
    shewasgoi
    ngtocont
    rol
    you
    Cass:mkhovu..
    ..
    thenewMpi yakhe
    Zungu.
    ..
    ..
    andshewasal sogonnat ur
    nyouint
    o
    si
    yoyoyo.
    ..
    adamnf ool
    ngaphaLollywoul
    d’
    ve
    beenyourpunchingbag..
    .al
    lyouhadtodowas
    l
    ayont hatbedwi thherandtheangeryouf eel
    wheny outhinkaboutAmo, t
    hebetrayal.
    ..
    .t
    he
    hat
    redy oufeel t
    owardsherwil
    lbetransfer
    red
    toLol
    lytimest en..
    ..
    Ruu:andwear
    esayi
    ngLol
    lybecauseshecal
    l
    ed
    hernamewhenshewentt
    oseethat
    wit
    chdoct
    or
    Jabu:
    eish.
    ..
    **
    *herubbedhi
    sfaceasmanyemot
    ionst
    ook
    overhi
    m***
    Jabu:whyisshedoingt hi
    stome..
    .sothehur t
    i
    m goingthroughisnotenoughforhernowshe
    wantstoturnmei nt
    oherlapdog..
    ...
    elegor e
    whodidImar ryCass..
    ..
    wheredi
    dIgowr ong
    mfowethu..
    ..
    wasIblindedbylov
    et hatIdidn’
    t
    seehertr
    uesel f
    Cass: y
    outhi
    nkamanli
    keherfat
    herwouldgive
    bir
    thtoagoodwoman..
    ..
    nahman...
    .andplus
    chil
    drenwhogrowupwi
    thextr
    emelystri
    ct
    parentshidetheirtruesel vesgrowingup..
    ..
    they
    l
    ivetheirli
    vestot heirpar ent
    sstandardsand
    onlyshowt heirt
    ruesel veswhenoneorbot h
    parentspasseson. ...
    i meanl ookather
    brother.
    ..
    ..
    youwon’ tr ecognizehim whenyou
    seehi m now..
    .hedr i
    nksandsmokesnow
    Jabu:
    howdoy
    ouknowt
    hat
    *
    **Casssmi
    rked*
    **
    Cass:
    t opassti
    meIcheckonthel
    ivesofour
    enemies..
    ..
    .i
    tkeepsmebusyandenter
    tai
    ned
    *
    **Jabugi
    veshi
    m awei
    rdl
    ook*
    **
    Cass:y
    ouwon’
    tunder
    stand.
    ..
    it
    ’saVampi
    re
    thi
    ng
    ***
    hesai
    ddismi
    ssi
    vel
    yandJabuj
    ustshookhi
    s
    headdef
    eat
    ed**
    *
    Ruu:
    let
    ’sl
    eav
    eall
    that..
    ..
    all
    youneedt odoi s
    st
    opwaiti
    ngt
    ogetclosurefrom herman. .
    ..
    just
    di
    vor
    cethent
    akeyoursonaf terhefi
    nisheswi t
    h
    hisexamsandgoahol i
    daysomewherefarand
    regr
    oupandrebuil
    dy ourfat
    herandson
    rel
    ati
    onshi
    p..
    .comebackabet t
    erman
    *
    **ThedooropenedandHeat
    hwal
    kedi
    n**
    *
    Heat
    h:Al
    phai
    sonhi
    sway
    Ruu:
    good
    Cass:
    Ithought“
    Mrpi
    ssedof
    f”her
    elef
    t
    Heat
    h:upy
    our
    sman
    **
    *hesaidshowinghi
    mthemi
    ddl
    efi
    ngerand
    Cast
    iel
    laughed*
    * *
    Casti
    el:youtwomakemel augh..
    .t
    omorrow
    you’l
    lbebestfriendsagai
    nforget
    ti
    ngthatyou
    foughttoday
    ...
    .Tom andJerr
    y
    Jabu:
    Tom andJerr
    ykedai
    potr
    isvanjou(Tom
    andJerr
    yist
    hatcal
    fmuscl
    eofyours)
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    laughed*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :seebestf
    ri
    endsagai
    n
    Heat
    h:mxm
    ***
    hewal
    kedoutagai
    nandCast
    iel
    laughed
    somemore*
    **
    Rusl
    an:
    you’
    rev
    eryst
    upi
    dCass
    *
    **Hesai
    dshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER21
    .
    .
    .

    ***
    Alphalett
    edidgot oJabu’shouseandhe
    cl
    eansedt hewhol ehouseandJabu’sclothes
    andheal socleansedJabuandor deredthatno
    oneshoul dsl
    eepi nthehouseforthr
    ee
    days..
    ..
    Jabu,HeathandAl phaarenowout side
    whil
    eRusl anandCast i
    elarei
    nsidethemai n
    bedroom busy***
    Cast
    iel
    :okwhat
    ’sgoi
    ngon
    Rusl
    an:
    amonst
    erwascr
    eat
    edman
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    sface*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutMadou
    Ruslan:whatim aboutt
    oshowy oukeepitt
    o
    yourselfCass.
    ..
    .wearenotget
    ti
    nginvol
    vedwit
    h
    thi
    s..
    ..
    letthi
    ngsplayout
    ..
    ..
    .
    Cast
    iel
    :cany
    ouj
    ustbef
    rankwi
    thme
    ***
    Rusl
    anputhishandsonhiscryst
    al bal
    land
    hi
    seyesturnedal
    lwhit
    eandhechant edaspell
    usi
    nganancientl
    anguageandthecrystalbal
    l
    showedthem somet
    hing.
    ..
    Cast
    iel
    :damn.
    ..
    ..
    Ruslan:
    wegonnasi
    tbackandwat
    ch.
    ..
    im
    ser
    iousCast
    iel
    *
    **hesai
    dst
    il
    lwi
    thhi
    sey
    esst
    il
    lwhi
    te*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :Iheary
    ouman
    Rusl
    an:
    good
    **
    *thenhi
    sey
    est
    urnedbackt
    onor
    mal
    andhe
    si
    ghed***
    Rusl
    an:
    letmeputapr
    otect
    ionspel
    li
    nher
    e
    Cast
    iel
    :sboshwaneedst
    omov
    eoutandbuy
    anot
    herhouse
    Rusl
    an:
    yeahy
    ou’
    rer
    ightbutf
    ornowheneedsi
    t
    OUTSI
    DE

    Jabu:
    thaaf
    orcomi
    ngman
    Alpha:
    don’tdothatman.
    ..
    youknowwehav
    e
    eachother
    ’sbacks
    Jabu:y
    eahbutst
    il
    lthanks.
    ..
    .mybodyev
    enf
    eel
    s
    l
    ight
    Al
    pha:
    that
    ’sgoodt
    ohear
    Jabu:Igotacall
    from Geeman.
    ..
    itf
    eltwei
    rd
    heari
    nghisvoi
    ce
    Heath:yeah.
    ..
    .whi
    chremi
    ndsmethatIhavean
    appoint
    mentwi t
    hhimtomor
    rowmorning
    Al
    pha:
    abouti
    nst
    all
    i
    ngt
    hesecur
    it
    ysy
    stem
    Heat
    h:y
    eah
    Jabu:
    he’
    spr
    otect
    iveoft
    hiswomanneh
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    andi
    twor
    ri
    esme.
    ..
    .
    Heat
    h:why
    Alpha:he’sabouttocomplicat
    ethegir
    l’
    sli
    fe
    man. .
    ..
    hehasn’tdeal
    twithwhathewent
    throughwhenhedi sappearedandhealso
    hasn’tdealtwi
    thhiswifecheati
    ngonhim wit
    h
    Mdu. .
    ..
    .t
    henewbaby ..
    ..
    .t
    hebetrayal
    ofafamily
    member ..
    .icangoonandon
    Jabu:andpeopl
    ewanty
    out
    oforgetabout
    ever
    ythi
    ngandmoveonasi
    fyou’
    rear obot
    mxm
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngatHeat
    h**
    *
    Heat
    h:whyar
    eyoul
    ooki
    ngatmel
    i
    ket
    hat
    Jabu:
    JudasI
    scar
    iot
    Al
    pha:
    hebaan
    Heat
    h:soi
    m Judasf
    ort
    ell
    i
    ngy
    out
    het
    rut
    h
    Jabu:
    whatt rut
    h..
    ..
    thatIshouldt
    urnmyheart
    i
    ntostoneandnotf eelanyt
    hing.
    ..
    ..
    atl
    eastMa
    wasbettershewant edmet oget
    cl
    osure.
    ..
    .whereelseever
    yonewantmet
    omov
    e
    onjustl
    i
    ket hatasifInev
    erlov
    edher
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etcausehecouldsenset
    he
    t
    ensi
    onbetweenthebrot
    her
    s***
    Heat
    h:mxm y
    oudon’
    tgeti
    tandy
    ounev
    erwi
    l
    l
    Alpha:bol ova(guys)domeonef avour
    assombl i
    ef..
    ..
    don’
    tletyourdif
    ferencesabout
    Amocomebet weeny ou.
    ..
    .HeathrespectJabu’
    s
    decisionmanev enifyoudon’tagreewi thhow
    he’shandli
    ngt hi
    ngsandJabuunder st
    andthat
    Heat hisj
    ustwor r
    iedaboutyoulikey ou
    woul d’
    vebeenwor ri
    edabouthimi fhewasi n
    yourshoes
    Jabu:t
    heydon’
    tgeti
    tAlphaandi
    mti
    red.
    ..
    .i
    don’
    twantherbackIj
    ust.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    nooneget
    sitsol
    et’
    sjustdr
    opi
    t
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghedhedi
    dn’
    twannaget
    i
    nvol
    vedwi
    tht
    his.
    ..
    hehasal
    othe’
    sdeal
    i
    ngwi
    th
    *
    **
    Alpha:
    letmegetgoingIst
    il
    lneedtogocleanse
    attheri
    verbef
    oreIpassbyGaza..
    .shapmaji
    ta
    Heat
    h&Jabu:
    shap
    **
    *Hegotinsi
    dehi
    scaranddr
    oveof
    fand
    Heat
    hsighed*
    **
    Heat
    h:r
    eshapr
    ight(wear
    egoodr
    ight
    )
    Jabu:shoketl
    areng..
    ..Modi moar eore
    i
    tshwarel
    emelatoyaronaj aakaleronare
    i
    tshwarel
    ababamol atoler ona(yeahwhatcan
    Isay.
    ..
    .Godsaysfor
    giveusourt r
    espassedasif
    weforgivet
    hosewhot respassagainstus)
    Heat
    h:i
    m notev
    engonnacommentont
    hat
    **
    *heshookhisheadandtheysawCast
    iel
    and
    Rusl
    anwalki
    ngoutofthehouse**
    *
    Rusl
    an:
    comeandl
    ockup
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghedandwal
    kedt
    owar
    dst
    he
    house*
    **

    _
    ___

    ATTSHI
    MO’
    SHOUSE

    ***Alphal
    ett
    eopenedt hegateandwal ked
    i
    nsidet heyar
    d..
    ..
    ther
    ear etwocar spar kedon
    thedr i
    vewayandher ecognizest heonehe
    sendt oGazabuthedoesn’ trecognizet he
    smal l
    eroneandheconcl udest hatitbelongst
    o
    theladyofthehouse..
    .hegetst ot hedoorand
    knocksandt hedooropensandTshi mo
    opens* **
    Al
    pha:
    hi
    ***
    Tshimoseesthebeadsandbendsherknees
    abitandhi
    tsherpal
    mst oget
    herl
    ooki
    ng
    down***
    Tshi
    mo:
    ThokozaMkhul
    u
    *
    **asmi
    l
    ereachesAl
    phal
    ett
    e‘sf
    ace*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    for
    giv
    eme.
    ..
    .ThokozaGogo
    ***
    shestoodupstr
    aightlookingupathi
    m and
    shesmil
    edherbeauti
    fulsmile***
    Tshi
    mo:
    nost
    ressKhul
    u
    *
    **shesai
    dsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    ismybr
    otherGazai
    n..
    .mynamei
    s
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e
    Tshimo:oohyeshedidtel
    lmehisbr
    otheri
    s
    comingbuthesaidNtsakonot
    Alphal
    ett
    e..
    .pl
    easecomein
    *
    **hewal
    kedi
    n**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    myot
    hernamei
    sNt
    sakobyt
    heway
    *
    **Shesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo: oohoknicetofi
    nal
    lymeet
    you.
    ..
    .pl
    easesi
    t.
    ..
    I’
    llgocal
    lhi
    m
    ***Alphanoddedandshewal kedawayandhe
    si
    ghed. .
    .she’sdamnbeaut i
    fulnowonderhi s
    brotheristhisprotect i
    veofher .
    ..
    .andhersmi l
    e
    “het hought ”
    ..
    .hesmi ledshakinghi shead...
    her
    soothingaur aisrefreshingandhersmi lejust
    makesy ousmi letoo...
    .Shehasabeaut iful
    smi l
    e“het hought”.
    ..
    .sher emindshi m of
    Masai ’
    ssoot hingaur a..
    .hesighedandshook
    offthoset houghtsandhi smi ndwentt oMasai
    andhet ookouthi sphoneandashe’ saboutt o
    callthehospi t
    alGazawal kedinfollowedby
    Tshimo....
    Hegotupandt heybrohugged* **
    Alpha:
    youl
    ookgoodwi
    tht
    henewhai
    rcutand
    tr
    immedbeard
    *
    **Gazal
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    thanksman.
    ..
    comemama
    *
    **Tshi
    mowentcl
    osert
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:t
    hisi
    sTshimol
    ogo.
    ..
    .myheroi
    ne,
    my
    pr
    ayerwarr
    iorandmyAngeloneart
    h
    ***shelookeddownshy l
    yandAl phalookedat
    herwi t
    hasmi leandGazacl ear
    edhi sthroat
    l
    ooki ngathi sbrotherwhowasadmi ri
    ng
    Tshimo. .
    .hecoul dn’
    tbel i
    evehowshor tshe
    i
    s...
    Wel lshe’snotbadbutGazanev erwentf or
    shortgirl
    sbef ore,helov esthem tal
    landslender
    withmodel sbodi es...
    justl
    ikehiswifeandany
    otherwomanhedat edbef or
    ehemetMar i
    na
    hi
    swi f
    e...
    AlphalookedatGazaandf oundhim
    fr
    owni nglookingathi m* **
    Al
    pha:
    ummm yeahni
    cet
    ofi
    nal
    l
    yputaf
    acet
    o
    anameTshi
    mo
    Tshi
    mo:
    sameher
    e
    Gaza:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    pleaseexcuseusmama
    Tshimo:oknoprobl
    em.
    ..
    .ni
    cemeet
    ingy
    ou
    Alphal
    ett
    eNtsako
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    sho
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohbef
    oreIf
    orget
    ..
    .shoul
    dIser
    vey
    ou
    now
    *
    **sheaskedGaza*
    **
    Gaza:
    don’twor
    ryI’
    l
    ldoitwenagoandr
    esty
    ou
    hadalongdayatwork
    Tshi
    mo:
    ok.
    ..
    feel
    athomeNt
    sako
    Al
    pha:
    yesmam
    *
    **shewenttoherbedr
    oom andGazast
    ood
    t
    herelooki
    ngatAl
    phawithaseri
    ousl
    ookonhi
    s
    f
    ace***
    Al
    pha:
    what
    Gaza:
    don’
    ttur
    nusi
    ntoenemi
    esbyl
    ust
    ingov
    er
    her
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    owned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    what
    Gaza:t
    hoset
    hought
    skeept
    hem t
    oyour
    sel
    f
    Ntsako
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    ownedsomemor
    e**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutman
    Gaza:
    exact
    lyt
    hat
    *
    **hesatdownandsodi
    dAl
    pha*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whywoul
    dyousayt
    hatt
    omeGee
    Gaza:
    she’
    sof
    fli
    mit
    sAl
    pha.
    ..
    .of
    fli
    mit
    s!!
    **
    *Al
    phalet
    techuckl
    ednotbel
    i
    evi
    ngwhathe
    waswit
    nessing***
    Al
    pha:dudeIdon’tevenseehert
    hatway .
    ..
    ..
    she
    j
    usthasthatni
    ce,soothi
    ngauraaboutherand
    abeaut
    ifulsmi
    le.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Alpha:youneedtodealwit
    hy ourwifecheat
    ing
    ony ouman...
    .i
    m notMdu..
    ..i
    m notjeal
    ousof
    youorwantev ery
    thi
    ngyouhav e.
    ..
    .getover
    yoursel
    fmani t
    snotcute
    *
    **Gazadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Alpha:you’
    l
    lloseshort
    yifyoukeepact
    ingli
    ke
    thi
    s..
    ..
    youtwoar enotevendati
    ngbutyou’
    re
    alr
    eadybeingpossessiv
    e..
    .gethol
    dofyour
    self
    andfixyourshit
    *
    **hegotup*
    **
    Gaza:
    sitdownandst
    opbei
    ngemot
    ional
    Al
    pha:
    wahl
    any
    alookwho’
    stal
    ki
    ng
    *
    **Gazagotup*
    **
    Gaza:I
    ’l
    lbr
    ingourf
    oodanddr
    inks.
    ..
    .Tshi
    mo
    cooked
    ***Alphasighedandsatdown.
    ..
    Gazabrought
    theirfoodanddrinksandt
    heyatewat
    ching
    Tv***
    Gaza:
    how’
    sMasa
    *
    **hechangedt
    het
    opi
    c**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    l
    lbef
    ine
    Gaza:
    shehasn’
    twokenupy
    et
    Al
    pha:
    no
    Gaza:wecanpost ponet
    het r
    ipNtsako.
    ..
    ican
    j
    ustcallbabaandaskhim nottotel
    lanyone
    aboutmyr eappear
    ance.
    ..
    .hecancomet hi
    sside
    toseemeandIcangobackwi t
    hhim andyou’l
    l
    fol
    lowlater
    *
    **Al
    phadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Gaza:j
    ustthi
    nkaboutittonight.
    ..i
    m backman
    andyoudon’thavetodoev eryt
    hingalone.
    ..
    .now
    weshareresponsi
    bil
    it
    iesli
    keweal way shave
    Alpha:mxm Ican’
    tbel
    i
    evey
    out
    houghtIwant
    yourshortbaseGee
    Gaza:
    Ithoughtwear
    eov
    ert
    hatNt
    sakocome
    on
    Al
    pha:
    youdi
    dn’
    tev
    enapol
    ogi
    ze
    Gaza:
    sor
    ry.
    ..
    happynow
    Al
    pha:
    youdon’
    tev
    enmeani
    t
    Gaza:
    howdoy
    ouknow
    Al
    pha:
    Ijustknowok
    Gaza:nawenastoplookingatherl
    ikethatwit
    h
    t
    hatstupi
    dsmileony ourface.
    ..
    im sureyou
    wouldn’
    twantmelookingatMasai li
    kethat
    Al
    pha:
    whatsmi
    l
    e
    Gaza:t
    hat“
    youar
    emycr
    ush”smi
    l
    e..
    .idon’
    tli
    ke
    i
    tperi
    od
    *
    **Al
    phal
    aughed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    needst
    oknowaboutt
    his
    *
    **Gazal
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:y
    ouwouldtel
    lyourgi
    rl
    fr
    iendt
    haty
    ou
    haveacrushonanot
    herwoman
    Alpha:I
    ’l
    ltel
    lheryout
    hinkIhav
    eacr
    ushon
    yourlov
    einterestwhi
    chIdont
    Gaza:
    whatl
    ovei
    nter
    est
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    *
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    sgonnadr
    ivey
    oumad.
    ..
    .she’
    s
    al
    readydr i
    vingyoumadandy ou’
    renoteven
    dati
    ng...
    .you’r
    eevenaccusi
    ngmeofwant i
    ng
    her.
    ..
    .pl
    easedeal wi
    thyouri
    nsecuri
    ti
    esand
    stopbleedingonsomeofus
    Gaza:
    arey
    oudoneDrPhi
    l
    Al
    pha:
    mxm
    Gaza:
    anywayhow’
    sJabu.
    ..
    yousai
    dyouar
    e
    goi
    ngtohi
    shouse
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:aithatwifeofhisplantedmut hiinhi
    s
    houseandadanger ousone. .
    ..
    itwasgoi ngt
    o
    makehi m hurthischosenone. ..
    .t
    hatwoman
    hasturnedintosomet hingIdon’t
    understand..
    ..
    .andim notevensur ehe’sgonna
    endupwi t
    hhischosenone. ..
    .everyt
    hingisj
    ust
    messedup
    Gaza:oki
    ml ost.
    ..
    whatchosenonenow..
    ..
    you
    tol
    dmeabouthi swif
    esleepi
    ngwi t
    hacult
    ist
    andthatr
    esult
    edinthei
    rdaughterdyi
    ngand
    nowy
    ou’
    resay
    inghehasachosenone
    Alpha:
    heal
    way
    shadonebuthe’
    stoobl
    i
    ndt
    o
    seeit
    ***
    Alphasi
    ghedandhetol
    dGazaev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    aboutJabuandAmo**
    *
    Gaza:
    damnandshedoesn’
    tlear
    nneh
    Alpha:t
    hisgir
    lnev eracceptedJabuashei s..
    ..i
    thi
    nkshewasal way sembar r
    assedbyhi m. .
    .you
    knowJav asGee....
    he‘ l
    lal
    way sbeJabuev enif
    hecanbeabi ll
    ionairebutshet houghtshecan
    changehim andtur nhimt olooklikeHeathand
    BigRaybutJabuwi l
    l al
    waysbeJabu, soher
    envygrewandbr oughtoutherot hersideand
    shestart
    edcrushingonHeat handt hat’swhen
    shestoppedfeeli
    ngJabubutt hepr oblem is
    Javasloveshermanandhe’ sfi
    ndingithardt o
    l
    etgoandacceptt hathismar ri
    ageisov erand
    thathefail
    edatfindingloveagain
    Gaza:
    yahneh
    Alpha:butwhathedoesn’tknowisloveis
    stari
    nghimint hefacebuthe’
    stoobli
    ndand
    brokentoseeit..
    .t
    hat’
    swhyIsayitwill
    bea
    mi r
    aclei
    fhim andhischosengettogetherand
    falli
    nloveandbuildafamil
    ybecauseAmo
    messedupourboy
    Gaza:
    may
    beheneedssomehel
    p
    Alpha:hi
    sbrot
    herst
    ri
    edtotalktohi
    m butI
    don’tt
    hinkheevenl
    i
    stenedtothem
    Gaza:
    may
    bet
    heydi
    dn’
    ttr
    yhar
    denough
    Al
    pha:
    ormay
    beav
    acat
    ionmi
    ghthel
    p
    Gaza:
    mmmmhmay
    be.
    ..
    .
    ***hesaidst ar
    ingi
    ntospacewithhisj
    aws
    clenched...
    .hethenbli
    nkedfastandst
    opped
    thenhest artedeat
    ing*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youok
    Gaza:
    yeahi
    m good.
    ..
    ..
    soshoul
    dIcal
    lbaba
    t
    omorrow
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:ial
    readytol
    dMasai’
    smot heri
    mleav
    ing
    tomorrowsol et
    sgetthi
    soveranddone
    with.
    ..
    ..
    wewi l
    lpassbyMa’shousebefor
    ehi
    famba(wego) .
    ..
    ihav
    en’
    ttol
    dheraboutyou
    beingfound
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    okaslongasy
    ou’
    renotunderpr
    essur
    e
    t
    henitscool
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmh

    _
    ___

    ATAMO’
    SHOME

    ***
    Thet
    womenbur nedajackal
    ’
    stai
    lonthekey
    hol
    eoft
    hebackdoorforsometimeasthey
    worebr eat
    hingmasksandwhent heywer e
    sati
    sfi
    edwi ththeamountofsmoket hatgotin
    thehouset heybendtheburglardoorupwar ds
    tocreateaspacet oentert
    hehouse....
    .They
    usedtheirtechni
    cstoopent hedoorandsl i
    d
    downt hebendbur gl
    ardoorandwenti nside***
    Man1:
    let
    ’smakethi
    squi
    ck..
    .ineedt
    orestI
    hav
    ealongjour
    neyt
    omorrow
    Man2:
    vel
    eyoul
    eav
    ingmebehi
    nd
    Man;yousai
    dyou’
    l
    lcomeonSat
    urdayor
    Sundaymoes
    Man1:
    eishok
    ***Theygoti ntheroom andf oundAmo’s
    mot hersleepingandcont i
    nuedtoburnthe
    Jackal ’
    stail
    untilt
    heywer esati
    sfi
    edaboutthe
    amountofsmokef il
    li
    ngtheroom thenthey
    wentt otheot herbedroom andAmowas
    sleepingthereanddi dthesameandst ood
    therewat chi
    nghersl eepi
    ng***
    Man2:
    arey
    ousur
    eaboutt
    hisman
    Man1:
    hundr
    eds.
    ..
    .sheneedst
    ogo
    Man2:ai
    ok
    ***Theycar efull
    ypickedAmoandt ookhert o
    theloungeanddi dthesamewi thher
    mot her
    ...
    ..
    theywentbackt othebedr oomsand
    tur
    nedt hem upsi dedownmaki ngsur ethey
    don’tmakel oudnoisef orthenei ghboursto
    hear..
    ..
    thent heyturnedt heloungeupsi dedown
    tooandMan2wentt ofi
    llabuckethef oundi n
    thebathroom wi thwat erandwentbackt ot he
    l
    oungeandpour edt hewat eront hem....
    they
    wokeupgaspi ngforairandwhent heysaw
    gunspoi ntedatt hem theyt r
    iedtoscr eam but
    theguy sindicatedtheyshoul dn’tmakenoi se***
    Man1:
    youscr
    eam y
    oudi
    eit
    ’sassi
    mpl
    east
    hat
    Amo:pl
    easedon’
    tkil
    lusi
    m beggi
    ngyou.
    ..
    you
    cant
    akeanyt
    hingbutpl
    easedon’
    tki
    l
    lus
    Man1:
    didIsayt
    alk!
    !
    **
    *hesaidangr
    il
    yandAmokeptqui
    etwi
    thf
    ear
    al
    loverherf
    ace**
    *
    Man1:
    ndodat
    aket
    heTVt
    othecar
    Man2:
    huh.
    ..
    oohy
    ah
    ***
    heclearedhi st
    hroatandwenttot
    akethe40
    i
    nchfl
    atscr eenTVandhet ookt
    heburgl
    ardoor
    keysi
    nt hekitchenandopenedthebur
    glardoor
    andwalkedoutwi ththeTV* *
    *
    Amo’
    smother
    :mysonpl
    easey
    oudon’
    thav
    eto
    dot
    hi.
    ..
    .
    ***
    theguyhi therwit
    hthebackofhisgunand
    shecollapsedonthefloor
    ..
    .AsAmowasabout
    toscream theguycrookedhisgunandsheput
    herhandsonhermout hcryi
    ngsil
    entl
    ylooki
    ng
    athermot herunconsci
    ousonthef l
    oor**
    *
    Man1:
    youknowIhat
    ewomenl
    i
    key
    ou
    *
    **Amojustcr
    iedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m shaki
    ngwi
    th
    f
    ear*
    **
    Man1: youhadasecondchancei nlif
    eandy ou
    decidedt omaket hewr ongchoi ce..
    ..
    you
    should’vecount edy ourl osesandmov edon
    andt r
    ustmenoneoft hiswoul dbehappeni ng
    butnoty ouri
    ght .
    ..
    .nott hemi ghtyAmo, youdo
    knowt hatwitchcraftisaddi t
    iver i
    ght.
    ..
    .i
    t’
    sli
    ke
    theny aopedr ug,oncey oustar ti
    t’shardto
    stop..
    .mostt imespeopl edon’ tevenwantt o
    stopthat ’swhyy ouwant edtot urnyour
    husbandi nt
    oapl ayt hingy oucancont r
    olfor
    yoursel fi
    shreasonsr i
    ght
    *
    **Amocont
    inuedtocrywit
    hherhandonher
    mout
    hshaki
    ng..
    .sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Man1: onyourwayt ohel
    lal
    way sthi
    nkoft he
    secondchancei nl
    ifeyouwastedbecausey ou
    thoughtosgora..
    .y
    ouf or
    gotthaty
    ourhusband
    haspeoplewhoact ual
    lycar
    eabouthim....I
    don’tki
    lli
    nnocentwomensoknowt hatyou’r
    e
    onthelistofevi
    lones
    *
    **t
    hent
    hreebul
    l
    etspenet
    rat
    edherchest
    ..
    ..
    he
    usedagunwi thasil
    encerandshefell
    ont he
    fl
    oorasshestruggl
    edtobreathasblood
    chokedherandthemancr ouchednexttoher
    andgrabbedherlef
    thandroughlywit
    hglov es
    onandremov edherexpensi
    veweddingring***
    Man1:
    youdon’
    tdeser
    vet
    oweart
    his
    ***hestooduprightandpoi
    ntedthegunather
    againandshelookedathim begginghi
    m with
    herey esandheshotheronherheadandshe
    tookherlastbr
    eathastheothermanwal ked
    i
    n* **
    Man2:
    damn
    Man1:
    letchecki
    fwedi
    dn’
    tleav
    eanyt
    racesof
    us
    ***t
    heycheckedandwalkedoutl
    eav i
    ngthe
    doorandburglardoorwi
    deopen.
    ..
    .theygotin
    thecarpar
    kedt hr
    eehousesawayfrom t
    he
    cri
    mesceneandgoti nthent
    heydroveoff*
    **
    Man2:
    whatar
    ewegonnadowi
    thsmal
    lTV
    Man1:Idon’
    tknow...
    you’
    ll
    seewhatt
    odowi
    th
    i
    tbutdon’
    tkeepitorsel
    li
    tyour
    sel
    f
    *
    **t
    heot
    herguynoddeddri
    vi
    ngast
    heyt
    ookof
    f
    t
    hei
    rmasksandhandglov
    es***

    _
    ___

    ATTSHI
    MO’
    SHOUSE

    **
    *Tshi
    moj umpedupf
    ri
    ghtenedwhenshef
    elt
    afi
    gurecl
    i
    mbonherbed* *
    *
    Gaza:
    rel
    axi
    tsmeGaza
    *
    **shehel
    dherchestasherhear
    tbeatf
    ast
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:ar
    eyououtofyourmi
    nd.
    ..
    .y
    oual
    most
    gavemeahear
    tatt
    ack!
    !!
    Gaza:sor
    ry.
    ..
    icoul
    dn’
    tsleepsoIthoughtI
    shoul
    dcomeandcuddl ewithyou
    Tshi
    mo:
    real
    l
    yGaz
    a
    Gaza:
    yeah.
    ..
    .ihav
    eakeysoIdi
    dn’
    twanna
    wakeyouupbyknocki
    ng
    *
    **shecoul
    dn’
    tbel
    i
    evewhatshewashear
    ing*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    bat
    hong
    Gaza:canwej
    ustsleepplease..
    .ij
    ustwanna
    cuddl
    esoIcansleep.
    ..
    im nervousabout
    tomorrowso.
    ..
    *
    *shesi
    ghedandlai
    ddown.
    ..
    Gazaj
    oinedher
    i
    nsi
    dehercov
    ersandhel
    dherfr
    om behi
    nd***
    Tshi
    mo:
    nof
    unnybusi
    nessandImeani
    t
    Gaza:Ipromi
    seandplusIcan’
    thav
    es*
    xunt
    il
    i
    m cleansedsor
    elaxmama
    Tshi
    mo: st
    il
    lthi
    siswr
    ong.
    ..
    .weshoul
    dn’
    tbe
    cuddl
    ingli
    kethi
    syouaremarr
    ied
    Gaza:canwesl
    eeppleaseIhav
    eal
    ongj
    our
    ney
    aheadtomor
    row.
    ..
    pleasemama
    *
    *shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    oohandifyoufeel
    somet hingpoki
    ngyou
    i
    nthemorningdon’
    tpani
    c..
    .healwayshasa
    mindofhi
    sown
    Tshi
    mo:
    yhoModi
    mowaka!
    !!
    **
    *hechuckl
    edandpul
    l
    edhercl
    oserandcl
    osed
    hi
    seyes**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER22
    .
    .
    .
    ATHEATH’
    SHOUSE(
    2h30i
    nthemor
    ning)

    ***
    Jabuwal kedinsidethehousewit
    hSbu
    l
    ookingangryandhewentt otheki
    tchenand
    pouredwaterinagl assandaddedsugarand
    sti
    rr
    edthegl assthenhegav ei
    ttoSbuwho
    l
    ookedshaken* **
    Jabu:
    dri
    nkup
    **
    *Hedr
    ankall
    ofitandputthegl
    assdownand
    hesl
    owl
    ysatonthechai
    r**
    *
    Jabu:
    whathappenedandnol
    i
    esSbusi
    so
    ***
    Sbuswal
    lowedhardandhel
    dti
    ghtt
    ohis
    school
    bagandatearrandownhi
    scheekand
    hewi
    pedi
    t**
    *
    Sbu:Iwentt
    her
    e..
    ..
    to.
    ..
    .t
    otal
    ktoher
    ..
    ..
    to.
    ..
    to
    askherwhyshedi
    dwhatshedidand..
    ..
    *
    **hebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Sbu:Ifoundt
    hebackdooropenedwi
    de...
    .i
    knockedbutnooneansweredsoIwalkedin
    andthat’
    swhenIfoundthem
    ***
    tearsrandownhischeeksashesobbedand
    Jabujustlookedathi
    m...
    thi
    swasamessand
    heneededt othi
    nkfast
    ***
    Jabu:odenkagorekesnaiSbu..
    ..
    obona
    popeyegeontebel
    etse(youthi
    nkim af
    ool
    Sbu..
    .y
    ouseeaf oolwhenyoulookatme)
    ***Sbushookhisheadnoasheshookwith
    fear.
    ..
    .hedidn’
    tli
    ket
    helookhi
    sfat
    herhason
    hisface**
    *
    Jabu:whatwer
    eyoudoi
    ngt
    her
    eatt
    hist
    imeof
    thehour
    ***
    Sbudi dn’tsayanythi
    ngandJaburai
    sedhi
    s
    handt oslaphim buthehel
    dhimselfasSbuhi
    d
    hi
    sf acewi t
    hhisschoolbag**
    *
    Jabu:onyakonny
    elaboy(y
    ouwannash*
    t
    yoursel
    fboy)
    Sbu:
    nobaba
    Jabu:thentalkcausegenkagot shwarakalaka
    l
    etsogoot sogammuchar engkofr
    ij
    ing(cause
    i
    fIlaymyhandsony ouyou’l
    lwakeupatthe
    mortuaryinthefreezer
    )
    *
    **Sbushookwi
    thf
    ear
    ***
    Sbu:
    i.
    ..
    iwentt
    her
    etoscar
    eher
    Jabu:
    Orescar
    e..
    .scar
    eSbu?
    ??
    ***henoddedandJabul ookedathowhewas
    cl
    ingingtohisschoolbagandhesnatchedit
    fr
    om him andSbul ookedathi
    m withhiseyes
    poppedoutasheopenedi t
    ..
    ..
    hetookoutthe
    brownenv el
    opinsi
    deandhesawgl ueinther
    e
    andar edmar kpenandar edli
    qui
    dthatl
    ooked
    l
    ikebloodinsidethebag.
    ..
    .Sbuoutoff
    earhe
    gotupf r
    om thechairandattempt
    edtorunout
    ofthekit
    chenbutj abugr
    abbedhishoody
    pul
    linghim back*
    * *
    Jabu:runagai
    nandonnyel
    a..
    ..
    runagai
    nand
    you’
    ll
    seewhatI ’
    l
    ldot
    oyou!
    !!
    ***hesaidtoSbuashehi dhisf acethi
    nking
    Jabuisgonnasl aphim. .
    ..
    Jabupushedhi mto
    thechairhewassi t
    tingonbef or
    eheat tempted
    torunandSbusatdownshaki ngwithtears
    runni
    ngdownhi scheeks...
    ..
    Jabut ookoutthe
    glue,marker,
    schoolbagandt hebottl
    eandhe
    putthem ontopoft heki t
    chencount erandhe
    openedt hebrownenv elopeandhewas
    shockedbywhathef inds***
    Jabu:
    whatt
    hehell
    isthi
    s..
    .whatdoy
    ouhav
    e
    thi
    smanypi
    ctur
    esofJabuli
    le
    *
    **Sbudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:
    tal
    kman!
    !!
    *
    **heshout
    edathi
    m andSbushookwi
    th
    f
    ear*
    **
    Sbu:Iwas.
    ..
    .gonnapastethem al
    lov
    ert
    hei
    r
    l
    ivi
    ngroom t
    ot ort
    ureher
    *
    **Jabuj
    ustl
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Sbu:
    Iwant
    edhert
    othi
    nkshe’
    sgoi
    ngcr
    azy
    Jabu:
    Sbu.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesai
    ddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Sbu:sheki ll
    edherbaba. .
    ..
    shet ookheraway
    from usandshemov esonasi fnot hing
    happened. .
    ..
    i sawher.
    ..
    .shedoesn’ tev enshow
    thatsher egretswhatshedi d..
    ..
    shewasev en
    l
    aughi ngwi t
    hsomewomeni nar estaurant
    l
    ookinghappywhi l
    ewesuf fertheaf termat
    hof
    heract i
    ons
    Jabu:howwereyougoi
    ngt
    oent
    erthe
    house..
    ..
    andhowdi
    dyouev
    engett
    here
    Sbu:
    myfri
    endbo.
    ..
    bor
    rowedhismom’
    scarand
    heal
    soknowshowtopickl
    ocks
    *
    **Jabuf
    rowned*
    **
    Jabu:
    wai
    twhatf
    ri
    end?
    ..
    .y
    ouwer
    enotal
    one
    ***
    Sbushookhi sheadandJabutur
    nedaround
    andkickedthebarst
    oolandi
    tfel
    lonthef
    loor
    makingnoise**
    *
    Sbu:he’s.
    ..
    he’smywitnessthatIdi
    dn’
    tki
    ll
    her.
    ...
    wefoundthedooropenedandwesawt he
    bodiesthi
    nki
    nggogoisal sodeadandheran
    out.
    ...
    whenIdecidedt
    of oll
    owhim hehad
    dri
    venawayl eav
    ingmet here
    Jabu:osthuphet
    hu(af ool
    ).
    ..
    .bareshowme
    yourf
    riendsandI’
    ll
    tel
    lyouwhoy ouare.
    ..
    ***
    Sbulookeddownembarr
    assed..
    .hecouldn’
    t
    bel
    iev
    ehistrust
    edf
    ri
    endranandlefthi
    mt here
    al
    one***
    Jabu:
    whatki
    ndofaf
    ri
    endl
    eav
    esy
    oubehi
    nd
    l
    i
    ket
    hat
    *
    **Sbudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:Iwantal
    lhisdetail
    ..
    .wherehe’sfrom, hi
    s
    namesandsurname, whatheeatsf orbreakfast
    ,
    l
    unchandsupper ,hisshoesize.
    ..
    hisparents’
    namesandwher et heywork.
    ...
    imean
    ever
    ythi
    ngandy ourstupidfr
    iendshipends
    now!!
    !
    ***
    Heathrusheddownt
    hest
    air
    swithagunon
    hi
    shandsandhesawJabuandSbui nthe
    ki
    tchenar
    eaandhewenttot
    hem putti
    nghis
    gunaway***
    Heat
    h:what
    ’sgoi
    ngon.
    ..
    .what
    swi
    tht
    henoi
    se
    ***hesaidashiseyeslandedonthebarstoolon
    thefloorandhelookedatSbuwear i
    ngallblack
    from headtotoeandhef rowned
    confused...
    Sbushookwithfearashelookedat
    Heath...
    .heknewhemi ghtgetana$$whoopi ng
    from him***
    Jabu:Mshi kar
    othi
    sboyotl
    ompol
    ayakapel
    o
    str
    aight(thisboyi
    sgonnagi
    vemeahear
    t
    att
    ack)..
    .ei
    sh..
    ..
    *
    **her
    ubbedhi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Jabu:
    igotacal
    lfr
    om hi
    m andhewascr
    ying
    andhetol
    dmetocomeandf et
    chhi
    m
    Heat
    h:f
    etchhi
    mfr
    om wher
    e
    Jabu:
    Amo’
    spl
    ace
    Heat
    h:heh?
    ??
    ***
    hesai
    dlooki
    ngatSbut
    henhel
    ookedat
    Jabu*
    **
    Jabu:Iwentt hereconfusedgorewhati she
    doingthere..
    .iev
    enhadscenar iospl ay
    inginmy
    headasIdr ovelikeamani acthinkingmay be
    Amosendpeopl etokidnaphim andwedi dn’
    t
    hearanythingkhantino,JamesBondwa
    fonkhongher ewenttherehimsel fandguess
    whatIfoundt here
    ***
    hesighedr
    ubbinghiseyes..
    .hecoul
    dn’
    t
    bel
    iev
    eshe’sgonejustl
    ikethat
    * *
    *
    Jabu:
    Amo’
    sdeadbodyandhermot
    her
    Heat
    h:wai
    twhat
    *
    **heey
    eswentt
    oSbu*
    **
    Sbu:Idi
    dn’
    tki
    l
    lherIswearIf
    oundt
    hem l
    i
    ke
    that
    Heat
    h:WHATWHEREYOUDOINGTHEREI
    N
    THEFIRSTPLACEATTHI
    STI
    MEOFTHE
    HOUR!!
    !
    Jabu:
    ar et
    opast
    eLile’
    spi
    ctur
    esal
    lov
    ert
    he
    l
    ivi
    ngroom t
    otor
    tur
    eher
    Heat
    h:wagaf
    aSbu?(ar
    eyoucr
    azySbu)
    *
    **Sbushookhi
    sheadl
    ooki
    ngscar
    ed*
    **
    Heat
    h:f
    *ck!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dashehel
    dont
    otheki
    tchencount
    er
    l
    ooki
    ngdown**
    *
    Jabu:
    didy
    out
    ouchany
    thi
    ngi
    nthathouse
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thal
    owt
    one*
    **
    Sbu:It
    ouchedherandhermot
    hert
    o..
    .t
    oseei
    f
    theyar
    esti
    llal
    i
    ve
    Heat
    h:wereyouwear
    inggl
    oveswheny
    ou
    t
    ouchedthem
    Sbu:
    n..
    .no.
    ..
    **
    *Jabusl
    appedhi
    m ontopofhi
    sheadbiti
    ng
    hi
    slowerl
    i
    pandSbucriedasheblockedhi
    s
    sl
    aps**
    *
    Heat
    h:y
    ho.
    ..
    Amen!
    !!
    **
    *hesai
    dashewentt
    ot hefri
    dgecausehef
    elt
    hi
    sthr
    oatdr
    yupi
    mmedi atel
    y***
    Jabu: damni tSbu!!!Uyahlany
    ayi
    ni(ar
    ey ou
    crazy)..
    .whywoul dy outouchsomeonewhom
    youcancl earlyseei sdeadhehandwithout
    gloves..
    .wit
    houtgl ovesSbu
    Sbu:
    Iwasn’
    tthi
    nki
    ngst
    rai
    ghtbaba.
    ..
    ipani
    cked
    and.
    ..
    ..
    i.
    ..
    .ij
    ustsawbl
    oodev
    ery
    wher
    eandI
    j
    ust.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    ocr
    y**
    *
    Heat
    h:y
    ho
    Jabu:
    deal
    wit
    hthisboybef
    oreImur
    derhi
    m
    wit
    hmybarehandsnxa
    *
    **hewal
    kedaway*
    **

    _
    ___

    *
    **STI
    LLATHEATH’
    SHOUSE

    (From nowonIwontposts*xscenesher
    eon
    Facebookyou’
    l
    lfi
    ndthem onthesamechapter
    s
    I
    ’l
    lpostonVisi
    onar
    yWr i
    ti
    ngsandWat t
    pad)

    #MDAVAZO
    ***
    hesaidashereleasedhisl
    astdropinsi
    deof
    herandhecoll
    apsedont opofher
    ...
    .af
    tersome
    ti
    meher ai
    sedhisheadandheper kedherli
    ps
    ***
    Heat
    h:Ineededt
    hat
    ..
    ..
    thanky
    ouObi
    m
    ***
    shejustnoddedandhesli
    doutandhewent
    togetthetowelandhewipedhimselft
    henher
    andhel ai
    ddownandpulledhertohischest
    andkissedherfor
    eheadandtheyslept
    ***
    .
    .
    ***
    Heathwokeupt ohisphoneringi
    ngandhe
    l
    etgoofNal edi.
    ..
    ..
    hewasnowcuddl i
    ngher
    fr
    om behind.
    ..
    ..hereachedforhisphoneand
    checkedthetimeandi t
    saround6i nthe
    morning.
    ..
    heanswer edthecall
    ***
    Heat
    h:sho
    Man:
    bossmankeShapi
    ..
    .Det
    ect
    iveBal
    oyi
    Heat
    h:shoShapi
    ..
    .Di
    ntshang(what
    ’sup)
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    gogobe(thingsarebad).
    ..
    I’
    vebeen
    t
    ryi
    ngtocall
    Jabubuthe’snotansweri
    ng
    Heat
    h:he’
    sprobabl
    yst
    il
    lsl
    eepi
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    dint
    shang
    (what
    ’swrong)
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    im her
    eathi
    sinl
    awshouseboss
    man
    *
    **Heat
    hbi
    thi
    slowerl
    i
    pthenhespoke*
    **
    Heath:umm ok...whatar
    eyoudoi
    ng
    ther
    e..
    ..
    don’ttel
    lmei t
    sanot
    herAmo
    scandal.
    ..
    yeeerthatwomankeatt
    ent
    ion
    seeker.
    ..
    .whatdidshedonow
    ***
    Naledi
    turnedandl
    ookedathi
    m whenshe
    heardAmo’sname***
    Detect
    ive:
    youshoul
    dcomedownher
    ewi
    thhi
    m
    bossman
    Heat
    h:what
    ’sgoi
    ngonShapi
    ro
    *
    **heaskedpr
    etendi
    ngt
    obewor
    ri
    ed*
    **
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    justcomedownher
    e
    Heath:eimanShapi
    rojustt
    ell
    mewhat’
    sgoi
    ng
    on..
    ..
    doyouwantmet odriv
    ether
    ewi
    thJabu
    forusel
    esssh*
    t
    ***
    Naledisi
    ghedandshesatupwit
    hhernunu
    thr
    obbing.
    ..
    .Any
    waythedet
    ecti
    vesi
    ghedtoo
    overt
    hephone* *
    *
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    kecr
    imesceneher
    e
    Heat
    h:aski
    es
    Detecti
    v e:i
    tlooksli
    kearobberygonewrong
    andt hehousel ooksmessedupl i
    ketheywere
    searchingforsomet hi
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    butwewillknow
    soongor ewhathappenedherecauseleTVit
    wast aken
    Heat
    h:i
    sev
    ery
    oneok
    *
    **t
    hedet
    ect
    ivesi
    ghed*
    **
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    eishboss.
    ..
    .sor
    rybutt
    hemadam
    didn’
    tmakeit
    ..
    .hermotherwasknockedoutbut
    themadam ei
    sh...
    youshouldcomenowcause
    herbrot
    herf
    aintedandtheyjustt
    ookhi
    m and
    themothert
    ot hehospi
    tal
    *
    **Heat
    hrubbedhi
    sey
    eskeepi
    ngqui
    et*
    **
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    bossman.
    ..
    .hel
    l
    o..
    ..
    hel
    l
    o..
    .
    Heat
    h:ei
    shl
    etmegowakeJav
    as
    Det
    ect
    ive:
    sho.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llupdat
    eyou
    Heat
    h:y
    oudot
    hat
    **
    *thenhedroppedthecal
    landsi
    ghed.
    ..
    thi
    s
    wasit“het
    hought”*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :what
    ’swr
    ong.
    ..
    whathappened
    Heat
    h:ahhbar
    eAmowaskill
    edi
    nahouse
    r
    obbery
    ..
    .l
    etmegowakeJav
    as
    ***
    hesaidwit
    habor edtonebutdeepdown
    he’
    sworri
    edaboutSbu. .
    ..he’
    swrit
    inghi
    slast
    paperi
    ntwoday s’ti
    meandwhathewi t
    nessed
    andthepossi
    bil
    i
    t yofhim gett
    ingarr
    est
    ed
    st
    resseshi
    m up*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :what
    ..
    ..
    ohhmyGosh
    Heat
    h:y
    eah.
    ..
    letmegowakeJabuup
    Nal
    edi
    :wai
    tbaby
    ..
    ..
    youdon’
    tseem hur
    t
    Heath:whyshouldIObi
    m. .
    ..
    thatwitchhas
    causedmybr ot
    hermoreharmt hangood...
    .now
    Li
    leoimelakemmu(Li l
    eisdead)becauseof
    hersoIsaygoodr i
    ddentobadr ubbish
    ***
    Heki ssedherfor
    eheadandgotoutofbed
    nakedandher eachedforhi
    spyjamapant
    s,
    worethem andhewal kedoutbaref
    oot
    edas
    Naledisatther
    eshocked***
    Nal
    edi
    :yho
    **
    *Shecl
    appedherhandst
    oget
    heri
    na
    dr
    amati
    cway* *
    *
    .
    .
    ***Heat hknockedonJabu’sbedroom and
    openedt hedoorandhewal kedinandfound
    Jabul yi
    ngonhi sbackwit
    hhisarm onhis
    foreheadfacingupwithhi
    sey esopenedli
    kehe
    wast hinki
    ngdeeplyandhesighed***
    Heat
    h:Shapi
    cal
    l
    edme
    ***Jabuclosedhisey
    esanddidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng
    thenheopenedt hem agai
    nandHeath
    sighed**
    *
    Heath:weneedtogot ot
    hecr
    imescene
    becauseifyoudon’
    tshowupi
    twil
    ll
    ook
    suspici
    ous
    Jabu:
    didy
    oudoi
    t
    *
    **Heat
    hrai
    sedhi
    sey
    ebr
    ows*
    **
    Heat
    h:namey
    oudeyaskt
    hatMj
    ava.
    ..
    .me
    Heat
    h
    Jabu:y
    ouwantedherdeadsokedenkeeng
    Heathheh(sowhatshoul
    dIthi
    nk)
    *
    **Heat
    hchuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Heath:i
    m notpissedbecausey ou’reaccusi ng
    mebutpi ssedbecausey ouknowt hat ’
    snotmy
    sty
    leandIwoul dn’tquench(ki l
    l)herliket hatin
    herhomeandt r
    aumat izethepoorol dwoman
    l
    ikethat.
    ..
    ..sonoIdi dn’t
    ..
    ..andthet r
    ut hisi was
    goingtodealwithhermywaybutIguess
    someonebeatmet oit.
    ..nowlistenher esi nce
    wegott hatoutoftheway ,don’
    tev eriny ourl i
    fe
    accusemeofsh* tyoudeyhear .
    ..
    .iwillnott ake
    thi
    snonsensef r
    om y ouagai nJabu. .
    .never
    accusemeofsh* tyoudeyhearmewel lwel l
    Jabu:
    olwel
    ang(whyar
    eyouf
    ight
    ing)
    Heat
    h:hai
    fokman
    ***
    Jabubithi
    slowerli
    pandhesatupwi t
    hhis
    l
    egsonthef l
    oorandhelookedatHeat
    hwi t
    ha
    seri
    ousl
    ookonhi sf
    ace***
    Jabu:al
    lofyouwantedhergonesowhatwasI
    supposedtothi
    nk.
    ..
    .nowmysonmi ghtbe
    accusedofki
    l
    li
    ngher
    Heath:wenay oudeycr azy..
    .naj ujudeymake
    yougopongpongi nthatyourst upid
    head..
    ..
    don’ttrymeooo. ..
    nott odaywheni m
    str
    essedaboutSbuJabu. ..
    .igov omi tal
    lmy
    i
    nsultsont hatstupidheadofy ourst hat
    ’sfullof
    Amo’ssh* tandt raumati
    zey ouf ort herestof
    yourmiserableli
    fesodon’ ttrymeooo. .
    .iswear
    Igoentery oujustnow(I ’
    llbeatt hehel loutof
    you)..
    ..
    mxm don’ tlookformyt roubl e
    Jabu..
    ..
    don’twakeasl eepingbeast ...
    .nowst op
    all
    thisnonsenseandgetupf rom t hatbedand
    l
    etsgo!!!
    *
    **hesai
    dwalki
    ngtowar dsthedoornowt
    alki
    ng
    t
    ohimsel
    flooki
    ngpissed***
    Heath:busychochochochochochov omi
    ting
    rubbi
    sh..
    ..
    hethi
    nksIwillquench(kill
    )thatthing
    andleaveherbodyther
    easev i
    dence...
    mxm
    thaaatuf
    iakwa..
    .imaginethei nsul
    t.
    ..
    .she
    wouldhavedisappear
    edwi thoutatracebutno
    thi
    smumut hi
    nksimthatsl
    oppynow..
    .nxat
    he
    i
    nsult
    ..
    ..
    hedeywakeanddecidet
    ocarrykat
    a
    katacomemysidethi
    searl
    ymorningmxm
    ***Hesaidasher antedal
    oneloudenought o
    hearhim wi
    thapi ssedofft
    onegoi ngbackto
    themainbedr oom andJabujustsighedandhe
    closedhi
    sey esandopenedt hem againandhe
    tookhisphoneandmadeacal l*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :sboshwa
    Jabu:
    sho.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:Amowasshotandki l
    ledatherhomeand
    themotherknockedout
    ..
    .i
    tlooksli
    kearobber
    y
    gonewrongbutwebot hknowt hatmi
    ghtnotbe
    thecase
    Cast
    iel
    :may
    bei
    twashaw...
    .orwhaty
    ouwant
    metocomeandconsol
    eyousboshwa
    Jabu:
    Idon’
    thav
    eti
    mef
    ory
    oursh*
    tCass.
    ..
    all
    I
    wanttoknowiswasisy
    ou.
    ..Imeany
    oudi
    dsay
    you’
    l
    lhandlehery
    our
    sel
    f
    *
    **hesai
    dcal
    mlyandCast
    iel
    laughed*
    **
    Casti
    el:
    imlaughi
    ngbecauseIknowyouar e
    bewit
    chedsothisi
    snotyou..
    ..
    maybeit
    ’sthe
    mkhovuinyouwakingupbecausethecreatori
    s
    dead.
    ..
    ..
    .
    *
    **t
    henhebecameser
    ious*
    **
    Castiel:don’tinsultmelikethi
    severagain
    Jabu....
    agunandr obbery,r
    eal
    lyman?..
    ..
    .i
    m
    surey ou’rehighf r
    om thatsagethemerman
    burnedi ny ourhouse...
    ..
    ungazongi
    jwaelakabi
    anddon’ tevent hinkofinsul
    ti
    ngRuuby
    questioninghi mt oo..
    ..
    **
    *Jabusi
    ghedcauseit
    struei
    t’
    snothi
    m...
    they
    wouldhav
    efoundherbodyinpi
    ecesi
    fitwas
    hi
    m** *
    Jabu:
    it’
    snott
    hat.
    ..
    .i
    t’
    sjust
    ..
    ..
    Casti
    el:haaistopitmanwhat’swr ongwith
    you..
    ..
    .whydoy ouev
    encarewhodi dit
    ..
    ..
    .i
    m
    sureyou’r
    epossessedbyadepr essedand
    sexuall
    ystar
    v eddemonfrom thepi t
    sofhell
    wena...
    thi
    sisnotnor mal
    ..
    .i
    m comi ngthereand
    youbetterber eadyt
    oaskmet hatquesti
    on
    facetoface
    ***
    thenhedr oppedthecallandJabusi
    ghedas
    hefeltaheadacheattacki
    nghim...
    hel
    aiddown
    againandclosedhiseyes..
    .st
    ressi
    sgoingto
    ki
    llhi
    m “het houghtt
    ohi mself
    ”***

    _
    ___

    ATAMO’
    SHOUSE

    **
    *It
    ’spackedoutsi
    dethegat
    easJabuand
    Heathparkthei
    rcar
    ..
    .Jabut
    akesadeepbr
    eat
    h
    andsi
    ghs*
    **
    Heat
    h:ar
    eyour
    eady
    Jabu:
    I’
    ll
    nev
    erber
    eady
    ..
    .l
    etsj
    ustgo
    ***
    theygotoutoft hecarandwalkedinsi
    de
    i
    gnoringthelocalpaperj
    ournal
    i
    stsaskingthem
    questi
    ons..
    .theywalkedt
    owher eDetecti
    ve
    Baloyi(Shapiro)i
    sandfoundhim wi
    ththetwo
    poli
    cement hataccompaniedAmot oJabu’s
    pl
    acet hatti
    meandJabusi ghedasthey
    approachedt hem***
    Heat
    h:bant
    ubomt
    het
    ho
    *
    **t
    heygr
    eet
    edback*
    **
    D.
    Bal
    oyi
    :thi
    sisDet
    ect
    iveMnguni
    andDet
    ect
    i.
    ..
    .
    Jabu:
    iswhatHeat
    htol
    dmet
    rue
    *
    **Hesai
    ddi
    stur
    bingDet
    ect
    iveBal
    oyi
    ***
    D.
    Bal
    oyi
    :unf
    ort
    unat
    elyy
    es.
    ..
    .t
    hef
    orensi
    cteam
    i
    sbusyi
    nsi
    de
    ***
    HeathandJabu’shear
    tsbeatf
    ast
    erbutt
    hey
    keptt
    heircool
    ***
    D.
    Mnguni
    :youwoul
    dknowangi
    thi
    *
    **Hesai
    dtoJabuwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    s
    f
    ace*
    **
    Heath:
    what
    ’sthatsupposedtomean.
    ..
    doy
    ou
    havesomet
    hingony ourmindDet
    ect
    ive
    D.Mnguni
    :Ithinkweshoul
    dhav et
    his
    conver
    sat
    ionatt hepol
    i
    cestat
    iondon’
    tyou
    thi
    nkMrVilakazi
    Jabu:
    aski
    es
    Heath:ar
    eyouar
    rest
    ingmybr
    otherDet
    ect
    ive
    sh*
    t..
    .ohhImeanMnguni
    D.
    Mnguni
    :whatdi
    dyouj
    ustcal
    lme
    Heath:
    Detect
    iveMnguni
    orar
    eyouhear
    ing
    t
    hingsnowDetecti
    ve
    D.
    Noah:ok.
    ..
    oklet
    ’sal
    lcal
    m down..
    ..
    MrVil
    akazi
    whatmypart
    nerherei
    stry
    ingtosayishe
    woul
    dli
    ket
    oasky ousomequest
    ionwi
    th
    r
    egar
    dstowhathappenedher
    e
    Jabu:
    howwoul
    dIknowwhathappenedher
    e..
    .i
    j
    ustgother
    e
    D.Mnguni
    :didy
    ou..
    imeannotlongagowe
    accompani
    edhertoyourhousesoshetakes
    herthi
    ngsandnowshe’ski
    ll
    edbrut
    all
    y
    Heath:okt
    hat
    ’senough.
    ..
    .i
    smybr
    otherunder
    ar
    restorwhat
    D.
    Mnguni
    :Isuggesty
    ouf
    oll
    owust
    othepol
    i
    ce
    st
    ati
    ont
    ofindout
    ***
    Heathchuckledlooki
    ngpissedoffandJabu
    si
    ghed..
    .he’
    swor r
    iedaboutthefor
    ensicteam
    fi
    ndinghisson’
    sfingerpr
    int
    sonbot hvict
    ims**
    *
    D.
    Noah: lookj
    ustfol
    l
    owust othepol
    ice
    st
    ation.
    ..
    wehav esomequesti
    onsforMr
    Vi
    lakaziherewewouldl
    ikeforhi
    mt oanswer
    Heat
    h:okdoesheneedt
    ocal
    lhi
    slawy
    er
    D.
    Mnguni:whywoul
    dheneedonei
    fhe’
    s
    i
    nnocent
    Jabu:i
    nnocentpeoplegotojailal
    lthe
    ti
    me...
    .ankeresal
    onaketj
    ot j
    o,gojamagweny a
    l
    enonedi mpabobomba, gor obalalegophiny
    a
    marageel emmerekoonawal epal l
    a
    (becauseal l
    youknowistakebr i
    bes,eat
    fat
    cakesanddev el
    opbigbell
    ies,tosleepandt
    o
    far
    tbutasf ordoi
    ngyourj
    obsy ouf ai
    l)
    *
    **Heat
    hchuckl
    ed*
    **
    D.
    Noah:you’
    rebei
    ngdi
    srespect
    ful
    nowMr
    Vi
    l
    akazi
    *
    **hel
    ookedatHeat
    hignor
    ingt
    hedet
    ect
    ive*
    **
    Jabu:nxalet
    sgogett
    hisov
    eranddonewi
    th
    Mshikaro
    Heath:
    I’
    ll
    cal
    lCassont
    heway
    ..
    ..
    he’
    satmy
    housenow
    *
    **Jabunoddedandt
    heywal
    kedawayf
    oll
    owed
    bythetwodetect
    iveswhil
    edetect
    iveBal
    oyi
    stay
    edbehind.
    ..
    hesighedandscrat
    chedhis
    headthenhewalkedtothehouse***

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    ***
    Moerawal kedinsideMasai’sroom andshe
    si
    ghedlookingatherl ay
    ingtherenot
    mov i
    ng.
    ..
    .Shef ur
    therwalkedinandstoodby
    herbedandl ookedather***
    Moer
    a:hi
    *
    **t
    henshegi
    ggledandputherhandonher
    moutht
    omuffl
    eherlaught
    henshestopped*
    **
    Moera:oohIforgoty oucan’
    tgreetbacksorr
    y
    t
    winny..
    ..
    forwhatitsworthim sorr
    yforhit
    ti
    ng
    youthathard.
    ..
    .youjustmademeangr ywhen
    y
    ousl
    appedme
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:
    MabeatmeandDr
    enchupbecauseof
    you
    *
    **sheshookherhead*
    **
    Moera:Iswearshe’sl
    uckyshe’
    sourmot
    heror
    i
    sitourmother-
    father
    *
    **shehuf
    fedr
    oll
    i
    ngherey
    es*
    **
    Moera:she’sluckycauseifnotshewoul dbe
    worsethatyouar enow...
    .canyoubel i
    eveshe
    embarr
    assedDr ench,
    shehi thim wit
    ha
    sj
    ambokasi fhe’ssomesmal lchild
    mxm...
    she’sluckyshem. .
    ..Anywaywher e’
    syour
    man..
    ..
    ididn’tseehim whenIcamei nIhope
    he’
    snottiredofy oualr
    eady
    ***
    shewalkedt
    oherothersi
    deandshel
    ooked
    atthebeepi
    ngmachi
    ne***
    Moer
    a:Iguesst
    hepay
    ingdamages“
    get
    -
    toget
    her”thi
    ngythatissupposedt ohappenthis
    weekendwon’ thappenmmh. ..
    .anditsally
    our
    faul
    takerenkebeoseweak(causei fyouwere
    notweak)itwouldhappenev ent houghenoba
    didamagesf el
    a,it
    snotli
    kehe’smar r
    yingyou
    *
    **sheshr
    ugged*
    **
    Moera:any wayIhopeyouwontopenacase
    wit
    ht hepolicewhenyouwakeupcauset hat
    wouldbet heendforusIpromiseyou..
    ..
    andyou
    bett
    ertellt
    hatboyfr
    iendofyour
    stostayoutof
    ourbusinesscauseIknowpeoplewhoknow
    peoplewhocanhel pmedeal wit
    hnuisance
    peopleli
    terall
    y
    *
    **shesi
    ghedcal
    mingdown*
    **
    Moera:soyouhitmeandIhi tyoubackandI
    j
    usthappentobestrongerthanyout hat
    ’swhy
    youarehereandim not
    ...
    wearesquar enowso
    whenyouwakeupf rom heredon’tyoudareact
    l
    ikeavict
    im causey
    ou’renot.
    ..
    ..youhitmeand
    Idefendedmy sel
    f..
    ..
    it
    shi
    ghti
    mey
    oust
    opped
    acti
    nglikeav i
    cti
    m andmakemel
    ookl
    i
    keabad
    person..
    .i
    tsendsnowMasa
    Moera:sowheny ouwakeupy oubetterhave
    mybackl i
    keIhavebeenhav i
    ngyoursallt
    hese
    year
    s..
    .t
    ellev
    eryonethatwhathappenedwasa
    momentofhi ghemotionsandthatyouforgi
    ve
    meandwear ecoolok
    ***thedooropenedandAl phalett
    ewalkedi
    n
    andMoer afrozeasshel ookedathim...
    He
    wal kedi
    nholdingabunchoff lowersandheput
    them ontopoft hesidedrawerandhebendand
    kissedMasai’sdryl
    ipsandl ookedatherwi
    tha
    smi leonhi
    sfaceignoringMoer a***
    Alpha: Ntsakowamina(myj oy
    )..
    ..
    ihav
    ea
    feel
    ingy ou’l
    lwakeupanyti
    mef r
    om now..
    .t
    he
    dream Ihadofy ouhasputasmi l
    eonmy
    face..
    .damnImi ssyou.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Moer
    acl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Moer
    a:umm hi
    Al
    pha:
    you’
    rest
    il
    lher
    e
    **
    *hesaidnotev
    enl
    ooki
    ngatherandshe
    swal
    lowed**
    *
    Moera: she’smyt wi
    nAlpha..
    .myfamil
    yandnot
    yourssodon’ tyoueversaythattome..
    ..
    you
    shouldn’tevenbehere..
    .MasaiandImayhave
    ourdiff
    er encesbutIl
    oveher
    Alpha:
    that’
    snotwhatyourmothersai
    dwhen
    sheconfront
    edyou.
    ..
    .it
    houghtyousai
    dyou
    hatedher
    ***
    hesaidstandi
    ngupstrai
    ghtl
    ooki
    ngather
    andfoundhereyespoppedout*
    **
    Moer
    a:mamadi
    scussedourf
    ami
    l
    ybusi
    ness
    wi
    thyou
    Alpha:no...y
    oufor
    gotIseeandknow
    thi
    ngs..
    ..
    im notj
    ustyourr
    egularsangoma
    Moer a.
    ..
    .iknowyouwantedtogetridofher
    wheny
    out
    houghtshe’
    sdead
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Iknowy
    ouf
    *ckmar
    ri
    edman
    *
    **shecl
    enchedherj
    aws*
    **
    Alpha:andIknowyou’r
    ejealousofy
    our
    twin.
    ..
    youenvyhereventhoughyouthi
    nkshe’
    s
    weak..
    ..
    *
    **heputhi
    shandsi
    nhi
    spocket
    s**
    *
    Alpha:It houghty ougenuinel
    ycaref orMasai
    whenwemet ...
    .it
    houghtyouwerer ootingfor
    ust obet oget herbutnowIseeev erything
    clearl
    y.
    ....y
    out houghtI’l
    luseheranddumpher
    andy ou’llplayheroinetoherbutIfellforher
    andi mt heref orherandy oucan’
    thav e
    that.
    ..
    .yousuddenl yenvi
    edherandwant edwas
    shehas. ..me...y
    ouf eedofherpai
    ny oudemon
    *
    **shelookedathim wi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonher
    f
    ace..
    ..
    .she’
    sangrynowreadyt
    obust**
    *
    Alpha: Idon’tl
    ikeyoucausey ou’
    repretent
    ious
    andy ou’retoogoodati t
    ...
    .nowli
    stentome
    good. .
    ..y
    oust ayawayf rom Masai andmeand
    I’
    l
    l keepy ourev i
    lsecretaboutwhaty ouwant ed
    todot oherbodywheny outhoughtshe’s
    dead...
    .itsassimpl easthat
    Moer a:Masaiwil
    lal
    way sneedme
    Alphalet
    te.
    ..
    .wesharedawombandthat
    ’sa
    bondy ouwillnev
    erbreak
    Alpha:t
    rustmeIdon’twannabreakitcauseI
    knowshel ovesyoueventhougholebolobol
    o
    (PuffAdder)inherl
    if
    ebutwhatim sureofis
    you’l
    lbetheonethatwil
    lbreakt
    hebond
    yoursel
    f
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Imeany
    ouhav
    eal
    readyst
    art
    ed
    Moera:I
    ’l
    lmakesur esheleavesyou.
    ...
    .y
    ou
    don’
    tdeserv
    eher .
    ..
    .youhaveturnedheragai
    nst
    meandshe’llsoonseey ouforwhoy ouare.
    ..
    .i
    woul
    dn’tbeshockedi
    fyouusedmuthit
    omake
    usfi
    ghtcauseyoucantst
    andthecompeti
    ti
    on
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    echuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Alpha:wapenga(y ouarecrazy)wenastr
    aight
    up...
    .t
    hewivesofthemar r
    iedmeny oukeep
    f*ck*ngwi
    llcont
    inuetodealwithyouunti
    lyou
    runmad...
    youhav en’
    tseennothingyet
    *
    **shebi
    therl
    owerl
    i
    plooki
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Moera:
    y ou’
    l
    lbesor
    ryoncei
    m donewi
    thy
    oui
    m
    t
    ell
    i
    ngy ounxa
    ***shewalkedawayandoutoft heroom and
    Alphajustsighedshakinghi
    sheadthenhe
    turnedtoMasai andfoundherwit
    hherey es
    openedblinkingrapi
    dlywit
    hafrownonherf ace
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER23
    .
    .
    .
    (NOTHAPPYWI
    THTHELOW AMOUNTOF
    COMMENTSANDIWAI
    TEDTOSEEIFYOU
    ‘
    LLREACHTHETARGETWI THOUTMEASKI
    NG
    ANDGUESSWHAT..
    ..HAIANYWAYENJOY!
    )
    ATTHEPOLI
    CESTATI
    ON

    ***
    Thedet ect
    iveshavebeenquestioni
    ngJabu
    aboutAmo’ sdeathandJabuhasbeenkeepi ng
    qui
    etlookingboredandt hatpi
    ssedoffthe
    Detect
    ivessomemor e*
    **
    D.
    Noah:youdoknowthatkeepi
    ngqui
    etmakes
    t
    hingsworsef
    oryour
    ight
    Jabu:l
    etlanchael
    awheny ou’r
    edonecause
    l
    angrasetsaandkeopaket l
    hogo(you’
    l
    ltel
    lme
    wheny ouaredonecauseyou’r
    ebusymaking
    noi
    seandIhav eaheadache)
    D.
    Noah: nt
    hweyat
    ell
    a(t
    hist
    hingi
    s
    di
    srespect
    ful
    )
    Jabu:
    eishTrevorNoahgochecki
    fmyl
    awy
    er
    hasarr
    ivedornot
    *
    **Det
    ect
    iveMnguni
    grabbedJabuwi
    thhi
    sshi
    rt
    andpul
    ledhi
    m cl
    osert
    ohi
    sfacel
    ooki
    ng
    angr
    y**
    *
    D.Mnguni
    :youthi
    nkthisi
    sjoketoy ouneh..
    ..a
    womanwaski l
    l
    ed...
    .awomant hati
    sy ourwife,
    youdon’
    tevenlookli
    keyoucare!!
    Jabu:
    off
    encenumberoneDet
    ecti
    veandI
    ’
    ll
    makesuremylawy
    erknowsaboutit
    D.
    Mnguni
    :yout
    hinky
    ouknowt
    hel
    awneh
    *
    **hesai
    dchuckl
    i
    ngandhel
    etgoofJabu*
    **
    D.Mnguni
    :wearethelawandy ouarethe
    numberonesuspect.
    ..
    .iknowyouki
    ll
    edheror
    hir
    edsomeonetodoi tforyouandt
    rust
    me...
    .wewon’
    trestunti
    lyouspendt
    her estof
    yourl
    ifei
    njai
    l
    Jabu:Jai
    ldoesn’tscar
    emeDet
    ect
    ive.
    ..
    ..
    .t
    he
    onl
    ythingthatscaresmei
    sLaPar
    ca..
    ..
    youcan
    askmybr otherHeath
    OUTSI
    DE

    ***
    Cast ielgotoutoft hecarandhequi ckly
    openedanumbr ell
    aandhecl osedthedoorand
    l
    ockedi tthenhewal kedinsidethepoli
    ce
    st
    at i
    onwear i
    ngaDol ce&Gabbanacust om
    made, tail
    oreddoubl e-br
    eastednav yblue
    st
    ripedsui tfeel
    inghimsel f.
    ..
    .Heat
    hspot t
    edhi
    m
    ashewal kedinsidethebui l
    dingandhegotup
    fr
    owni ngasCasscl osedt heumbr el
    la*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :howdoIlook.
    ..
    .i
    m aCanal
    isuitbuy
    erI
    swearIdi
    dn’
    tknowD&Ghasni cesui
    tstoo
    *
    **heaskedt
    urni
    ngar
    oundshowi
    ngHeat
    h**
    *
    Heath:
    waitaminut
    e..
    .i
    sthi
    smyexpensi
    vesui
    t
    you’
    reweari
    ng
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thhi
    sey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Cast
    iel
    :i
    tlooksgoodonmeneh
    Heat
    h:ar
    eyououtofy
    ourmi
    nd.
    ..
    whogav
    eyou
    mysui
    t.
    ..
    .youknowwhatt
    akei
    tof
    fnow!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngpi
    ssed*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :takewhatoff.
    ..
    .ar
    eyoucr
    azy
    ..
    ..
    thi
    ssui
    t
    wasmadef orme..
    ..
    lookatme
    Heat
    h:Cast
    iel
    im notpl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thy
    ou
    Casti
    el:
    Icouldn’tcomeandr epr
    esentJabu
    weari
    ngt r
    ackpant sandsneakersandaround
    neckshir
    t..
    ..
    ineedt ol
    ooksharpasal awyer
    haw
    Heat
    h:nott hissuitCast
    iel
    man..
    ..
    andhowdi
    d
    yougeti
    t.
    ..don’ttell
    mey ouent
    eredmy
    matr
    imonial bedroom
    Casti
    el:Iaskedf
    orper
    missi
    onf
    rom y
    our
    beaut
    ifulwife
    *
    **Heat
    hrubbedhi
    sfaceget
    ti
    ngf
    rust
    rat
    ed*
    **
    Heath:ar
    ethosemyexpensiveshoes..
    ..
    andmy
    bel
    tandwat ch.
    ..
    .Cast
    iel
    whatthef*
    ckiswr ong
    wit
    hy ou.
    ..
    areyououtofyourmind!
    !!
    **
    *ever
    yoneinsi
    dethepoli
    cestat
    ionl
    ookedat
    hi
    m asheshoutedandCasti
    elj
    ustsmil
    edashe
    movedhi
    sfeetchecki
    ngthem out
    ***
    Casti
    el:
    theyar
    eni
    ceneh.
    ..
    .damny
    ouhav
    e
    tast
    e
    Heath:i
    m gonnaquench(ki
    l
    l)y
    ouimtell
    i
    ng
    you.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llsqueezet
    hevampirel
    if
    eoutofyou
    Casti
    el:asl
    ongasIgettobeburi
    edweari
    ng
    thi
    ssuitandshoes.
    ..
    youcanki
    l
    lmeallyouwant
    bro
    ***
    thenhelaughedgivingHeaththeumbrel
    la
    andhewalkedt ot
    hecount erl
    eavingHeat
    h
    defeat
    edbutalsopissedaswel l
    ***
    Heath:
    Isweart
    odayi
    snotmyday.
    ..
    ever
    yone
    deycarr
    ykat
    akatabr
    ingmywaymxm
    *
    **hesatdownandwai
    tedf
    ort
    hem*
    **
    .
    .
    BYTHECOUNTER

    Cast
    iel
    :hel
    l
    oMroffi
    cer
    ..
    ..
    adv
    ocateMontei
    ro
    her
    eandim her
    easJabul
    aniVi
    l
    akazi
    ’
    slawyer
    Off
    icer
    :okl
    etmegocal
    lthedet
    ect
    ivei
    nchar
    ge
    oft
    hecase
    Cast
    iel
    :mmmmh...
    ..
    tel
    lhi
    mtomakei
    tqui
    cki
    l
    eftmywif
    enakedonthebed
    ***
    theof f
    icerclear
    edhisthroatandhewalked
    away ..
    ..
    .aftersomet i
    mehewal kedbackwi t
    h
    detectiv
    eNoahandt hedetecti
    vestoppedon
    hi
    st rackswi thhiseyespoppedout **
    *
    Of
    fi
    cer
    :her
    eist
    hedet
    ect
    ive
    ***
    Hesai dtoCast
    ielandCasskeptast r
    aight
    l
    ookonhi sfaceasher ecognisedthe
    detect
    ive.
    ..
    .Thedetecti
    veclearedhisthr
    oatas
    heapproachedCass* *
    *
    D.
    Noah:
    MrMont
    eir
    o
    Casti
    el:
    detect
    ive.
    ..
    .idi
    dn’
    tknowy
    out
    heone
    handl
    ingthi
    scase
    *
    **Thedet
    ect
    ivecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oatagai
    n**
    *
    D.
    Noah:
    thi
    sisadel
    i
    catecase.
    ..
    ani
    nnocent
    womanwaskil
    l
    edbrut
    all
    y
    Casti
    el:
    mmmmhi nnocenty
    ousay.
    ..
    sowhyis
    mybr ot
    herquest
    ionedlikeacr
    imi
    nalorhe’
    sa
    suspect
    ?
    D.
    Noah:
    bro.
    ..
    brot
    her
    Cast
    iel
    :mmmmh.
    ..
    .
    D.
    Noah:
    I..
    .idi
    dn’
    tknowy
    out
    woar
    erel
    ated
    Casti
    el:enoughchi
    tchat
    ti
    ngt
    akemet
    omy
    cl
    ientdetect
    ive
    ***Thedetecti
    velookedar
    oundandhecl eared
    hi
    st hroatandlettheway.
    ..
    .heopenedthedoor
    andt heywalkedinandassoonasJabusaw
    Castielherai
    sedhi sey
    ebr
    owssur pri
    sedbyhis
    dressingcodecausehehasnev erseenhim
    weari
    ngsuchast y
    li
    shandexpensi
    vel
    ooking
    sui
    tbefore.
    ..
    det
    ecti
    veMngunist
    oodupquickl
    y
    ashiseyesmetwithCast
    iel
    ’
    sandhelookedat
    hi
    m shocked***
    Cast
    iel
    :Ihopey
    oudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngt
    othese
    twoSboshwa
    Jabu:
    Iknowt
    hedr
    il
    lman
    Cast
    iel
    :good.
    ..
    .
    **
    *her
    ubbedhi shandstoget
    herasdetect
    ive
    Noahwhisperedsomethi
    ngtohispar
    tnerand
    hi
    spart
    nerlookedspooked**
    *
    Cast
    iel
    :sowhyi
    smycl
    i
    enther
    edet
    ect
    ives?
    D.
    Mnguni
    :Idi
    dn’
    tknowy
    ouar
    eatt
    hissi
    deof
    t
    hecount
    ry
    Casti
    el:whywoul dyouknowt hat.
    ..
    wearenot
    famil
    y,fr
    iendsoracquaintancesandim not
    hereforcatchingupim hereformycli
    ent.
    ..
    .now
    whyisMrVi l
    akaziher
    e..
    ..
    whatarechargi
    nghi m
    wi
    th
    *
    **Det
    ect
    iveMnguni
    clear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    D.Mnguni:
    he’
    snotunderarr
    estasofyet
    ..
    ..
    he’
    s
    onlyher
    eforquest
    ioni
    ngconcer
    ninghi
    swife’
    s
    death
    Jabu:Iwantt
    oopenacaseofassaul
    tformpy
    a
    ee(thisdog)
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngatDet
    ect
    iveMnguni
    ***
    Jabu:Ineedtoteachhim al essont onev ergrab
    aman’ sexpensi
    veshir
    tliket hat.
    ..
    .ontlwaela
    masepaoo. .
    ..
    obusyontshwar aekarekel e
    panti
    ti
    ..
    ..
    onaganagoret hisshi r
    tkej umpsuite
    orangenxa(he’sful
    lofshi tthisone....
    busy
    grabbi
    ngmeasi fim aprisoner ..
    ..
    het hi
    nksthis
    shir
    tisanorangejumpsui tnxa)
    Cast
    iel
    :real
    l
    ydet
    ect
    ive
    D.
    Noah:
    canweal
    lcal
    m down
    Jabu:
    sat
    lompot
    sa(don’
    ttel
    lme)t
    ocal
    m
    downwena.
    ..
    .whydi
    dn’ty
    outel
    lhi
    mt ocal
    m
    downwhenhegrabbedmeli
    kethat
    Cast
    iel
    :Jabu.
    ..
    *
    **hest
    oppedhi
    m**
    *
    Jabu:
    mxm ar
    eyouchar
    gingmeorwhat
    D.Mnguni
    :youcangobutwewill
    call
    youin
    agai
    nifsomethingcomesupsodon’
    tleav
    ethe
    prov
    inceorcountr
    y
    Cast
    iel
    :i
    sit
    ?
    *
    **boththedet
    ect
    ivesl
    ookedateachot
    her
    t
    henlookedatCast
    iel
    ***
    Casti
    el:i
    t’
    sar obberygonewr ongandi fmy
    br
    otherhereorany oneclosetohim get s
    ar
    restedforherdeathcauseIknowt heyare
    i
    nnocenttheny outwopopey eswi l
    lshareacel
    l
    wit
    hVi per
    ..
    ..
    themany oubetr
    ay ed
    ***
    thetwodetect
    ivesswal
    l
    owedhar
    dwi
    tht
    hei
    r
    heart
    sbeat
    ingfast**
    *
    Castiel:i
    m surehe’
    l
    lgiv
    emehal fofhi
    sweal
    th
    forbringingyoutwotohim onasil
    ver
    plat
    ter..
    .gooddaygentl
    emen
    *
    **hel
    ookedatJabu*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :l
    etsgoman
    **
    *Jabugotupandheshoweddetect
    ive
    Mngunithemi
    ddl
    efi
    ngerandhefol
    lowed
    Cast
    iel
    outoft
    heint
    err
    ogati
    onr
    oom* **
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DETHEI
    NTERROGATI
    ONROOM

    D.
    Mnguni:Ihatet
    hisVil
    akazi
    t hugnxa.
    ..
    .iknow
    heki
    l
    ledher..
    ..
    myinst
    inctneverli
    estome
    *
    **her
    ubbedhi
    sheadr
    oughl
    y**
    *
    D.
    Mnguni
    :andthi
    sweir
    dcr
    eep.
    ..
    .whyi
    shet
    his
    si
    deIt
    houghthe’
    sst
    il
    li
    nKZN
    *
    **hesai
    dpaci
    ngupanddown*
    **
    D.
    Noah:
    hesai
    dJabui
    shi
    sbr
    other
    D.
    Mnguni
    :ei
    sh
    *
    **hesai
    dashesatdown*
    **
    D.
    Noah:l
    et’
    sleav
    et hi
    splacesowecant
    alk
    pr
    oper
    lyt
    hesewallshaveears
    *
    **Det
    ect
    iveMnguni
    sighed*
    **
    D.
    Mnguni
    :ei
    sht
    hiscasewasgonnagi
    veust
    he
    pr
    omoti
    onwedeser
    ve
    D.
    Noah:
    weneedaqui
    ckpl
    anasap.
    ..
    let
    sgo
    *
    **t
    heywal
    kedout
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    OUTSI
    DETHEPOLI
    CESTATI
    ON
    **
    *Jabu,HeathandCast
    iel
    arest
    andi
    ngnextt
    o
    Heath’
    scar**
    *
    Cast
    iel
    :don’tbet
    oohardontheboy
    ..
    ..
    he’
    s
    goi
    ngthroughalotandt
    hat
    ’swhati
    smaking
    hi
    m acti
    rrat
    ional
    l
    y
    Jabu:he’
    swrit
    inghi
    sexamsCass..
    ..
    hewas
    supposedtobeinhi
    sroom st
    udyi
    ngandnot
    play
    ingboJamesBondinthemiddleoft
    he
    ni
    ght
    Cass:yousti
    lldon’tgetitdoy ou..
    ..
    all
    thisis
    yourfaul
    t.
    ..
    ..
    youletdepressiont akecontrolof
    youandy ouforgotabouty ourson...
    .yousonis
    cryi
    ngoutforhelp..
    ..
    he’sactingoutcausehi s
    fat
    herisnotthereforhim whenheneedshi m
    themost
    *
    **Jabudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Heath:
    he’sturningint
    oy oury
    oungersel
    fandi
    f
    you’
    renotcarefulhe’l
    lendupinj
    ailt
    oo
    *
    **St
    il
    lJabudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng.
    ..
    thent
    heysaw
    thedetecti
    vesdr
    ivi
    ngoutoft
    hepol
    i
    ce
    stat
    ion***
    Cast
    iel
    :I’
    l
    lhandl
    ethem my
    sel
    f
    Jabu:
    oldacquai
    ntancesofy
    our
    s?
    *
    **Cassf
    ixedhi
    ssui
    t**
    *
    Cast
    iel
    :ol
    dcl
    i
    ent
    s..
    ..
    gent
    sletmel
    oveandl
    eav
    e
    you
    ***
    hewal kedtohiscarandheopeneditand
    gotinsi
    det henhecl
    osedtheumbrell
    aandput
    i
    tont hepassengerseat*
    **
    Heat
    h:wai
    tmysui
    t!
    !!
    **
    *Cast
    iel
    qui
    ckl
    ycl
    osedt
    hedoorandhedr
    ove
    of
    f**
    *
    Heat
    h:mgodoy
    iwenj
    anxa
    *
    **hesai
    dshout
    ing*
    **
    Jabu:
    he’
    swear
    ingy
    oursui
    t??
    Heat
    h:myexpensi
    vesui
    tMj
    ava.
    ..
    .ionl
    ywor
    eit
    oncenxa
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Heat
    h:mxm Casskem*
    t*t
    *st
    rai
    ghtnxa
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghedandhel
    ookeddown*
    **
    Jabu:
    whocoul
    d’
    veki
    l
    ledher
    Heat
    h:wat
    homa(y
    ou’
    rest
    art
    ing)
    Jabu:
    ket
    homaeng(whatam Ist
    art
    ing)
    Heath: canwenott alkabouther.
    ..
    .i
    mt i
    redof
    hearinghernameJabu. .
    .t
    hiswomanhast aken
    overy ourl
    ifeandheadt oapointthatyou’renot
    yourselfanymor e.
    ..
    .y
    ousonneedsy outsetsa
    gorewhoki lledhershouldn’
    tevenbeapr iori
    ty
    ri
    ghtnow. ..
    .yoursonshouldbe..
    .weneedt oget
    ri
    doft heforensicreport
    ***
    Jabusi
    ghed..
    ..
    hewasdr
    ainedandt
    ir
    ed
    aboutt
    hewholethi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:whydon’
    tyouallwantt
    ounderst
    andwhy
    i
    mf eel
    i
    ngli
    kethi
    s..
    ..
    thi
    sisnotaboutme
    wantingherbackwhenshewasst il
    lali
    ve..
    .t
    his
    i
    saboutme. .
    ..
    t heloveIfeltforher..
    ..
    igaveher
    myal l
    ..
    ..
    myev eryt
    hing..
    ..
    itrustedherwi t
    hmy
    heartandmyson’ shear t
    ..
    .It houghtthi
    swasi t,
    fi
    nall
    yImett heoneandIdi dn’tevenholdback
    andallofasuddeny ouwantmet oeraseall
    thatj
    ustli
    ket hat..
    ...
    thehear tdoesn’
    twor kli
    ke
    thatHeathithast hemi ndofi t
    sown
    Heat
    h:l
    etsj
    ustgoJabu
    Jabu: noy ougonnal i
    sten..
    ..t
    hatwomanbef ore
    shechangedshemademehappy .
    ...
    shebr ought
    j
    oyi ntomyl i
    feandson’ sli
    fe.
    ..
    .shebecamea
    mot hertoSbuandmademewantt obeabet ter
    man. .
    ..sheoncet ur
    nedmyhousei ntoa
    home. ...
    sheoncemademeapr oudmant o
    hav eawi felikeher
    ..
    ..
    .andy oual lwantmet o
    forgetall t
    hatandforgetjustlikethat..
    ..that
    sheoncemeantt hewor ldtome. ..
    im nota
    robotHeat hIhaveaf uckenhear tandbl ood
    runningt hroughmyf uckenv eins
    Heat
    h:y
    oudon’
    tgeti
    tdoy
    ou
    Jabu: noy oudon’tgetit
    ..
    ..
    .icantswi
    tchoffhow
    Ifeel becauseallofyouwantmet o.
    ..
    im nota
    fuckenr obot..
    .il
    ovedthatwoman
    whol eheartedl
    y...
    youallar
    ecal l
    ingmeweak
    butfor getthati
    m humant oo...
    .whosaidmen
    can’tbebr okentoo..
    ..
    whosai dmencan’ tfi
    ndit
    hardt omov eontoo
    *
    **Heat
    hswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Jabu: whycan’ty
    a’l
    lletmebehumanj ustt
    his
    once...
    .l
    etmebebr oken...
    letmemour nmy
    mar r
    iageanddaughter ’
    sdeat hinpeacewi thout
    ya’
    llthi
    nkingIhavebecomeweak. .
    ..
    .youare
    supposedt obemysuppor ti
    ngsy stem but
    you’r
    et heonesthatarebashi ngme. .
    ..i
    m
    actuall
    ydisappoi
    ntedespeci all
    yinyoucause
    youknowme, youknowhowIf eltaboutherand
    howhappyIwasunt ilshechanged. ..
    youknow
    howmyhousewasonceawar m homebef ore
    shechanged
    *
    **Heat
    hsi
    ghed*
    **
    Heat
    h:Iunder
    standmani
    t’
    sjust
    ..
    .
    Jabu: noy oudon’tandnev erwi ll
    ..
    ..
    .it
    ’shar dto
    l
    etgoandacceptt hatmymar riagehasf ai
    led
    l
    iket hi
    s...t
    hatIgavemysonat asteofawar m
    happyf ami l
    yonlyforittocrumbl ewi thinabl i
    nk
    ofaney e..
    ..
    thi
    sisnotaboutAmoi t’
    saboutme
    fail
    ingmysononceagai n..
    .ibroughtt hat
    womani nt
    oourl i
    vesandt r
    ust edherwi t
    hmy
    sonandnowmysoni sscarredf orli
    fe...
    .iwas
    somuchi nlovethatIdidn’
    tev enseer edflags
    abouther“ i
    ftheywer ether
    ei nthef i
    rst
    place”..
    ..if
    eelli
    keaf ail
    ure,
    Ifailedmyki ds.
    That ’
    swhyIcan’ tev enfaceSbu
    Heat
    h:damn.
    ..
    lookmani
    m sor
    r.
    ..
    Jabu:
    let
    ’sj
    ustdr
    opi
    t
    *
    **heopenedt
    hedoorandgoti
    n**
    *
    Heat
    h:Mj
    ava.
    ..
    .ei
    shdamni
    t
    *
    **Heat
    hal
    sogoti
    nsi
    dethecarandhest
    art
    ed
    i
    tbuckl
    i
    ngupandhedr
    oveoff***

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    ***Dori
    s,Hi
    l
    ls,AJandAlphal
    ett
    earewait
    ingi
    n
    thesit
    ti
    ngareanotsay
    inganyt
    hingasher
    doctori
    sbusyexamini
    ngher***
    Dori
    s:isawMoerawalki
    ngoutandshej
    ust
    passedusli
    keshedi
    dn’tev
    enknowus
    *
    **shechuckl
    edwi
    pinghert
    ear
    s**
    *
    Dor
    is:Idon’
    tknowwhereIwentwr
    ongwi
    th
    her
    ..
    ..
    ihopeshedidn’
    thur
    tMasai
    Al
    pha:
    noshedi
    dn’
    t
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mamasomet
    hingi
    swr
    ongwi
    th
    Moera..
    ..
    shecantchangeoutoft
    hebl uel
    i
    ke
    that
    ..
    ..
    Mol ovesMasaimamasoIt hink
    somethingiswrongwit
    hherimtel
    lingyou
    *
    **Noonesai
    dany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s: l
    ooknowathowshei
    gnor
    edus.
    ..
    .my
    si
    sterMowill
    neverdot
    hat
    *
    **Dor
    issi
    ghed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    mmhIheary
    ou
    ***Alphalett
    ejustkeptqui
    etandhej ust
    concentratedonhissonwho’ splayi
    ngagame
    onhisphonesi tti
    ngonhislap..
    ..
    Theygotup
    whent heysawt hedoctorapproachi
    ngthem**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    doct
    orhowi
    sshe
    Doctor:
    she’
    sawakeandthegoodpar tisthat
    sherememberswhosheis,whereshe’sfr
    om,
    herson,boy
    fri
    end,
    motherandsist
    erssoit’
    s
    safetosayshe’
    sgonnabeok..
    .wit
    ht i
    me
    ofcour
    se
    Hi
    ll
    s:oohThanky
    ouLor
    d..
    ..
    yhoModi
    mokea
    l
    eboga
    *
    **Dor
    ishuggedthedoct
    orf
    eel
    i
    ngr
    eli
    evedand
    t
    hedoctorsmil
    ed**
    *
    Dor
    is:
    thanky
    ousomuchdoct
    or
    Doctor
    :it
    sokmam. .
    ..
    youcangoandsee
    her
    ..
    .she’
    sbeenaski
    ngforherson
    Dor
    is:
    okok.
    ..
    .et
    lapapa
    *
    **shet
    ookAJ*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youcangoinmamaIneedt
    omakean
    i
    mport
    antphonecal
    l
    ***
    theywalkedawayandAl
    phasatdownand
    cal
    ledGaza***
    Gaza:
    Ntsako
    Al
    pha:
    bhut
    ..
    .she’
    sawake
    Gaza:
    Masai
    ??
    Al
    pha:
    yeah
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Gaza:
    eishf
    inal
    l
    y..
    ..
    howi
    sshe
    Alpha: she’
    sgonnabeok. .
    .ummm canwedrive
    toMPal i
    tt
    lel
    atersoIspendsometimewith
    her..
    .iknowhowi mportantthi
    str
    ipi
    stoyouso
    givemeaf ewhour swi
    thherandwewill
    leave
    Gaza: don’
    tworryabouti
    t.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    lldr
    ivedownther
    e
    aloneandwai tf
    oryouataBnBandy oucan
    driv
    edownt omorr
    owandwewi l
    lgohome
    together.
    ..
    .how’
    sthat
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ekeptqui
    etabi
    t*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youcanj
    ustwai
    tformeGee
    Gaza:don’
    tovert
    hinkt
    his.
    ..
    .Wenajustspend
    t
    odaywi t
    hyourwomanandI ’
    llseeyou
    t
    omorr owwhenyouarri
    ve.
    ..
    I’
    ll
    pinyoumy
    l
    ocati
    onassoonasIf i
    ndtherightBnB
    Al
    pha:
    whydon’
    tyouwantt
    owai
    tforme
    Gaza:
    causeIhav
    esomet
    hingsIneedt
    otake
    car
    eof
    Al
    pha:
    whatt
    hings
    Gaza:
    per
    sonal
    thi
    ngs
    Al
    pha:Gee..
    .Nyamsor
    oluya(t
    hatwi
    tchdoct
    or)
    i
    sdead..
    ..
    iendedhim sodon’
    tgoaf
    ter
    hi
    m..
    .he’
    sdead
    Gaza:he’
    slucky.
    ..
    .andim sor
    ryt
    odisappoi
    nt
    youbutmyper sonalr
    easonshasgotnothi
    ngto
    dowithmyenemi es..
    ..
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:don’
    twor
    ryaboutme.
    ..
    .wenaconcent
    rat
    e
    onyourwomanandI’l
    lseey
    outomorrow
    Alpha:pl
    easedon’
    tdosomet
    hingy
    ou’
    l
    llat
    er
    regret
    Gaza:
    goti
    t
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    cany
    oubel
    i
    eveMoer
    athr
    eat
    ened
    me.
    ..
    .shet
    hreat
    enedt
    obr
    eakMasai
    andIup
    *
    **hechuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    thi
    sgi
    rli
    sdel
    usi
    onal
    Gaza:Iseeshe’
    sgonnabeapr
    obl
    em f
    ory
    ou
    andyourwoman
    Alpha:don’
    twor
    ryIknowhowt ohandl
    e
    her.
    ..
    .she’
    sasmallchi
    l
    dthatone
    Gaza:
    mmmmh
    *
    **t
    henhekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    sohow’
    sTshi
    mo
    *
    **not
    hing*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    hel
    l
    o..
    .
    *
    **st
    il
    lnot
    hing*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Gaza
    *
    **Gazacl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Gaza:
    yeah
    Al
    pha:
    ner
    ehow’
    sTshi
    mo
    Gaza:
    she’
    sgood
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    snotsul
    ki
    ngt
    haty
    ou’
    rel
    eav
    ing
    Gaza:i
    m notl
    eavi
    ngimjustgoi
    ngtoseemy
    fat
    herandson.
    ..
    getcl
    eansedandcheckonmy
    busi
    nessesandI’
    l
    lbeback
    Al
    pha:
    you’
    remov
    ingt
    hissi
    de
    Gaza:
    yeah.
    ..
    wit
    hmyson.
    ..
    .
    Al
    pha:
    forher
    Gaza:
    formy
    sel
    f
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whatabouty
    ourbusi
    nessesGee
    Gaza:don’
    tdothat
    ..
    ..
    ihav
    emadeupmymi nd
    wenaallIneedf
    rom youi
    syoursuppor
    tandfor
    youtohavemyback
    **
    *Alphasi
    ghed.
    ..
    hedi
    dn’
    tunderst
    andthi
    snew
    Gaza..
    ..
    hej
    ustdi
    dthi
    ngsdi
    ff
    erentl
    yfr
    om the
    ol
    dGaz
    aandi
    tfr
    ust
    rat
    eshi
    mtot
    hecor
    e**
    *
    Gaza:
    lookl
    etmegetr
    eadywewi
    l
    ltal
    k..
    .shap
    Al
    pha:
    shap
    *
    **Theyendedt
    hecal
    landAl
    phal
    ett
    ecal
    l
    ed
    Mpande**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DEMASAI
    ’
    SWARD

    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im gl
    ady
    ou’
    reoksi
    s
    Masai
    :yeahmet
    oo
    ***
    sheforcedasmil
    ethenshelookedather
    sonwho’snowlayi
    ngontopofhersingi
    nga
    songthatheonl
    yunderst
    and*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    thi
    ssongofhi
    s
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    sodoy
    our
    ememberwhathappened
    Masai:
    canwenott al
    kaboutthat
    ..
    ..
    ij
    ustwanna
    getbet
    terandgetoutofher
    e
    *
    **Dor
    issi
    ghed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    she’
    syourt
    winMasai
    Masai:mamapl ease.
    ..
    .dontdelaymyheal
    ing
    processbyst
    ressingmeup. .
    .idon’
    twannatal
    k
    aboutit
    Dor
    is:
    hai
    ket
    lar
    eng(hai
    whatcanIsay
    )
    Masai:Hil
    lscany oupleasecallthepropert
    y
    agentIwasgoi ngt omeett ogov i
    ewthe
    apartmentImi nterest
    edi n.
    ..
    wellthat
    ’sift
    hey
    di
    dn’ttakeit.
    ..
    .youcanv ideocal l
    mewheny ou
    aretheresoIseei tt
    oo..
    .idon’tknowwher emy
    phoneis..
    .hernumber sar estoredasAgent
    Phil
    i
    leShandu
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    oknopr
    obl
    em.
    ..
    any
    wayl
    etmel
    oveand
    l
    eaveyou.
    ..
    .ineedt
    odr
    opt
    heseof
    fatTar
    ek’
    s
    of
    fi
    ce
    Masai
    :di
    vor
    cepaper
    s?
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yep.
    ..
    .t
    odayIwokeupf
    eel
    i
    ngcour
    ageous
    Masai
    :yeswenagi
    rl
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsl
    aughed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    I’
    ll
    seey
    oul
    aterneh
    Masai
    :ok
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lski
    ssedhercheek*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    byeKhai
    Khai
    :by
    e
    *
    **hesai
    dwavi
    nggoodby
    etoherandshe
    l
    aughedwal
    ki
    ngout
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    im gl
    ady
    ou’
    reokmybaby
    Masai
    :i
    m gl
    adi
    m okt
    oomama
    *
    **Dor
    issi
    ghedandshegotup*
    **
    Dori
    s:l
    etmegi veyouandyourboy
    fri
    endsome
    ti
    metotalk.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llseeyoui
    nanhourorsothere’
    s
    somethi
    ngIneedt odo
    Masai
    :ok
    **
    *shekissedherf
    oreheadandKhai
    ’
    sandshe
    walkedoutandKhaidi
    dn’tev
    encryf
    orher
    ..
    ..
    Masaisighed*
    **
    Masai
    :heypapa.
    ..di
    dyoumi
    ssme
    AJ:
    mmh.
    ..
    lookmommy
    **
    *hesaidshowinghim whathedi
    dwi t
    hhis
    f
    inger
    sandMasai giggl
    edbutshestopped
    whenAlphal
    ett
    ewalkedin***
    AJ:
    papal
    ook
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:hey
    Masai
    :hey
    Al
    pha:
    wher
    eist
    hesmi
    l
    eyouj
    ustgav
    eAJ.
    ..
    i
    al
    soneedi
    t
    **
    *shesi
    ghedandl
    ookedawayashet
    ri
    edt
    o
    ki
    ssher*
    **
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:okwhat
    ’sgoi
    ngonmamakhe
    ***
    shekeptqui
    etandAlphalet
    tegavehi
    sson
    hi
    sphonetodestr
    ucthim..
    .hepickedhi
    m up
    andputhi
    m onachairandopenedagamef or
    hi
    m* **
    Alphal
    ett
    e:wenotgonnadothisMasa.
    ...
    ifwe
    haveaproblem wet
    alkaboutandf
    ixit
    ..
    .sil
    ence
    i
    snotanopt ion
    Masai
    :soyouknewallal
    ongthatMoera
    want
    edyou..
    ..
    youknewwhyshewasl i
    kethat
    t
    owardsmeandy oukeptqui
    et
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    soy
    ouhear
    dus
    Masai
    :why
    Al
    pha:
    becauseIdi
    dn’
    twanty
    out
    wot
    o
    f
    ight
    ..
    ..
    youl
    ovehermylovesoimaginei
    fIsai
    d
    y
    oursist
    erhasacrushonme..
    ..
    itwoul
    dlook
    l
    i
    keim comingbet
    weenyoutwoorIwanty ou
    t
    ohateeachother
    Masai
    :butyouwatchedmestr
    essedthat
    maybeIdi
    dsomethingwrongt
    oher .
    ..
    .youknew
    whyshewasliket
    hatandyoukeptquietabout
    i
    t
    Al
    pha:
    cal
    m downok
    *
    **Shebreat
    hedoutandshequickl
    ywipedher
    t
    earsof
    fsohersondoesn’tseehercr
    ying*
    **
    Masai:
    myheartissorePhal
    ett
    e..
    ..
    it
    ’ssosor
    eI
    f
    eell
    ikeri
    ppi
    ngitoutofmychest
    ***shesaidasmor euncontr
    oll
    abletear
    scame
    outandAl phacuppedherfacethenhekissed
    herlipsasmor etear
    srandownhercheeks...
    he
    wipedt hem butt
    heykeptfal
    li
    ng***
    Al
    pha:
    youwer
    eawakeal
    lal
    ong
    *
    **shenodded*
    **
    Masai:IwokeupandIwasal oneinthe
    room..
    ..
    icoul
    dn’
    tr eachtheemergencybutt
    on
    soIthi
    nkfell
    asleepagainandIhear dher
    ..
    .at
    fi
    rstIt
    houghtIwasdr eamingbut.
    ..
    .shesaid.
    ..
    ..
    Al
    pha:
    shhh.
    ..
    im her
    e..
    ..
    Masai:
    yousai
    dshewant
    edt
    ogetr
    idofmy
    body
    ***
    shesai
    dinawhi
    sperwi
    thherbot
    tom l
    i
    p
    shaki
    ng**
    *
    Alpha:don’tstressmamapl ease..
    ..
    youaresick
    andy ouknowst ressisnotgoodf oryou..
    ..
    cal
    m
    down. .
    .t
    rustmeok. .
    ..
    iloveyousodamnmuch
    andIwi l
    lmov emount ainsforyou.
    ..
    .i
    m notjust
    passingbyi m heretost aypermanently
    ..
    ..
    Masai
    :butwhyi
    sshe.
    ..
    Alpha:
    she’
    salwaysbeenl
    ikethat..
    ..
    it
    snotyour
    faul
    tshe’
    sjustt
    oogoodatpretendi
    ng..
    ..
    now
    youneedt oli
    vey ourl
    ifetotheful
    l
    est.
    ..
    .stand
    yourground.
    ..
    .standony ourown..
    .makeiton
    yourownandshowhert hatyoucandoi t
    withouther
    ..
    ..
    you’renotgulli
    bleMasai
    ..
    ..
    you
    j
    usthav ebeenleaningony ourtwi
    nandt rust
    ing
    herwithyourli
    feandi twasokcausey out wo
    sharedawomb
    *
    **hewi
    pedhert
    ear
    sof
    f**
    *
    Alpha:letherdemonsdeal wi
    thher..
    ..
    donot
    hateherwenaj ustliveyourli
    feandlether
    destroyhersel
    f..
    .iknowithurtsNtsakowa
    mina...
    trustmeIknowandi m gonnabeher ef
    or
    younott ooverwhelmy oubutt osupporty
    ouok
    ***
    shenoddeddoingbr
    eat
    hingexer
    cisest
    o
    cal
    m her
    selfdown**
    *
    Al
    pha:l
    eti
    tsi
    nki
    n..
    ..
    don’
    tfor
    cei
    t.
    ..
    .t
    akei
    tone
    st
    epatati
    meok
    *
    **shenoddedandheper
    kedherl
    ipsagai
    n
    t
    henanursewalkedi
    nwit
    hatrayoffood*
    **
    Nurse:her
    eisyourf
    ood..
    .y
    ouneedtoeatso
    you’
    llbeabl
    etotakeyourmedi
    cine
    Masai
    :thanky
    ou
    Nurse:i
    t’
    sali
    ghtmealt
    hou.
    ..
    .mashedpot
    atoes,
    gr
    av y,
    vegi
    esandfi
    sh.
    ..
    .
    Masai
    :thanky
    ou
    Nurse:pr
    esstheemer
    gencybut
    toni
    fyouneed
    any
    t hi
    ngelse
    Masai
    :Iwi
    l
    lthanky
    ou
    *
    **t
    henur
    sesmi
    l
    edandshewal
    kedout
    ***

    _
    ___

    ***
    Hill
    swal kedinsi
    dethebuildi
    ngandshegot
    i
    nsidetheel ev
    atorandpressedthefl
    oorshe’
    s
    goingto..
    .soontheelev
    atordooropenedand
    shewal kedouttaki
    ngadeepbr eath.
    ..she
    foundhisPAnoti nherdeskandshepr oceeded
    tohisoffi
    ce..
    ..
    sheknockedont hedoorbutno
    oneanswer ed,sheknockedagainandst il
    lno
    oneanswer edsoshet ookanotherdeepbr eath
    andsheopenedt hedoorandwhatshef ound
    brokeherheartsomemor e.
    ..
    .Shef oundhim
    havings*xwithawhi t
    ewoman. ..t
    heyarebot h
    buttnakedandt hewomani slayingonthet abl
    e
    onherbackwi thherlegswideopenedand
    Tarekisstandi
    ngbet weenherlegsandhe’ s
    busypoundingathermer cil
    esslygroani
    ng* **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ta.
    ..
    .Tar
    ek
    ***
    shesai dinawhispertoneast earsrandown
    hercheeksandhedi dn’tevenhearher...
    .hejust
    conti
    nuedt oravagethepoorwoman. .
    .shetook
    adeepbr eathandwal kedf
    urtherinwithher
    bodyfeeli
    ngweak. .
    ..
    Tarekcamebackt ohis
    senseswhenhehear dheelscli
    ckingont he
    fl
    oorandhet urnedhisheadandhi sey
    es
    poppedoutwhenhesawhi swifelooki
    ngpal e
    wi
    tht
    ear
    sal
    lov
    erherf
    ace.
    ..
    .

    Heimmedi atel
    ypull
    soutoft hewomanf eel
    ing
    l
    ikehishear tisabouttostopbeat i
    ngany
    second...
    .he’
    snotev enwear i
    ng
    protect
    ion..
    ..Hil
    l
    sthrowst hebrownenv el
    ope
    nexttohim ont hefloorandshet urnedand
    walkedbackt othedoormaki ngsureshe
    doesn’tcoll
    apseasshest art
    sfeeli
    ngdizzy*
    * *
    Tar
    ek:
    Babe.
    ..
    it
    ’s.
    ..
    it
    ’snotwhaty
    out
    hinkIswear
    ***
    hesai
    dashequickl
    ypickedhi
    sunderwear
    andheworei
    tasshewalkedoutslowl
    y***
    .
    .
    .

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO

    **
    *SORRYFORDI
    SAPPEARI
    NG..
    .HAIKUNZI
    MA
    KWAHEALTHDEPARTMENTBUTYA’LLKNOW
    I
    M AFI
    GHTERSOLETSCARRYON* **

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER24
    .
    .
    .
    ***Shegoti nsidehercarandl etoutal oudcry
    asherhear tbrokeintopieces. .
    ..
    Sheputher
    headont hest eer
    ingwheel andshecr ied
    painful.
    ..
    Yesshe’ sdivorcinghi m butshestil
    l
    l
    ov eshim andt oseehimi nthatpositi
    onwi t
    h
    anotherwomanbr okeherhear tandthewor st
    partisitwasn’ tevenwi t
    ht hebabymama
    meani ngit’spossiblethathe’ sbeencheat i
    ng
    withdifferentwomenal llongev enbeforethey
    separated...Shecalmeddownandwi pedher
    tearsoffandshet ookadeepbr eathand
    buckledupandshest artedt hecaranddr ove
    outoft hepr emises***

    ***
    She’slostinherthought sashermindkept
    goingbackt othes*xsceneshewi t
    nessed
    whensuddenl yshehearsahootofacarand
    whenshecomesbackf rom herthoughtsshe
    seesacari nfrontofhernotmov ingasthe
    tr
    affi
    cli
    ghtst urnedr
    ed..
    ..shehit
    sherbreaks
    butit
    ’stoolateasshebumpsi ntothebackof
    thecarscreami ngandshaki ng..
    ..
    thedr i
    verdoor
    from t
    heot hercaropensr oughlyandout
    comesMpandef umingwi t
    hanger ...
    ..
    Hil
    ls
    unbuckleshersaf et
    ybeltwithhermi ndtryi
    ngto
    makeoutwhatj usthappened. .
    ..
    ..
    ..sheopens
    herdoorcr yi
    ngandshaki ngunawar ethatthe
    owneroft hecarshej ustbumpedi ntois
    Mpande* **
    Mpande:uy
    ahlany
    ay i
    niwenasf
    eb.
    ..
    .(ar
    eyou
    outofy
    ourmindbitc.
    ..
    .)
    ***
    hest
    oppedtal
    ki
    ngashesawthati
    tsHi
    l
    ls
    andHi
    ll
    sal
    sorecogni
    sehi
    m***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im.
    ..
    .i
    m sor
    ..
    ..i
    m..
    ..
    sosor
    ry
    *
    **shesai
    dshaki
    ngandal
    socryi
    ngand
    Mpandesi
    ghedrubbi
    nghi
    sheadroughl
    y**
    *
    Hil
    l
    s: I
    ’
    llpayf
    ory
    ourcart
    obef
    ixedpl
    easedon’
    t
    cal
    lthecops
    Mpande:
    okpeopl
    emov
    eri
    ghtal
    ongt
    her
    e’s
    not
    hingt
    oseeher
    e
    ***
    *Hesaidtodri
    ver
    sdri
    vi
    ngsl
    owlytoseewhat
    happenedandpeopl
    ewhowerenowt aki
    ng
    vi
    deosandpict
    uresoft
    heacci
    dent
    ***
    Mpande:
    heyf
    osekman.
    ..
    .ani
    zway
    ini
    ..
    .
    ***
    hesaidshouti
    ngandonedr
    iversnuckhi
    s
    headouthi
    swi ndowl
    ooki
    ngbackatMpande**
    *
    Dri
    ver
    :haifoseknawemsunu.
    ..
    .t
    hisi
    snoty
    our
    fat
    her
    ’sroad
    Mpande: Ij
    ustmemorizedyournumberpl
    ate
    shlama..
    ..
    ihopeyouhaveinsur
    anceanda
    funeral
    cover
    ***
    hesaidtakingouthi
    sgunandt hedri
    ver
    qui
    cklyspeedoffandpeopledispensedas
    Mpandeputhi sgunback.
    ..
    .helookedatHil
    ls
    whowasmaki ngacall
    toherinsurancewit
    hher
    handsshaking**
    *
    Mpande:
    gohomewewi
    l
    ltakecar
    eoft
    hisl
    ater
    wheny
    ouar
    ecal
    m
    Hil
    ls:i
    m sor
    ry.
    ..
    im sosor
    ry.
    ..
    ..
    iwasn’
    tlooki
    ng
    and..
    ..
    .
    ***
    shebreat
    hedi
    nandoutt
    ryi
    ngt
    ocal
    m
    down**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:Ifoundhim hav
    ings*xwithsomewhi
    te
    womanandi .
    ..
    ..
    ishouldn’
    thav
    edr i
    veni
    nmy
    st
    ate.
    ..
    im sor
    ry
    ***
    shesai
    dwipi
    nghertear
    soffwi
    thhershaky
    handsandMpandesi
    ghed***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ipr
    omi
    seI
    ’
    llf
    ixy
    ourcar
    ..
    .ipr
    omi
    se
    Mpande:
    stayher
    edon’
    tmov
    e
    ***
    het urnedthehazar dsofhercaronandhe
    wenttohi scarandst arteditandwait
    edf ort
    he
    tr
    affi
    clightstoturngreenandhedr ovepastt he
    tr
    affi
    clightsandpackedhi scaronthesideand
    hegotoutandcl osedt hedoorandwalkedback
    toHil
    ls’car.
    ..
    she’snowi nsi
    dehercartr
    yingto
    cal
    m down*
    **
    Mpande:
    letmehel
    pyouout
    ***shel ookedathim confusedashepul l
    edher
    outoft hecarandshehel dont ohi
    m asher
    kneesbecamewobbl y..
    ..
    Mpandebal ancedher
    andsl owlytheywenttothepassengersideand
    hehel pedhergetinandhecl osedthedoorand
    wentbackt odri
    versi
    deandgoti nthenhe
    turnedthehazardsoffashest art
    edt hecarand
    wai t
    ed***
    Mpande:
    doyouhav
    esomeoney
    oucancal
    lto
    comeyoupi
    ckup
    Hil
    ls:
    MoerabutIdon’
    tthi
    nkshewil
    lcomeor
    answermycall
    sandIcan’tcal
    lMaorausVee
    ***shesai
    dsniff
    ingandMpandesighedashe
    drovepassedthegreentr
    aff
    icl
    ight
    sandhe
    packedbehindhiscarandswit
    chedthecar
    off***
    Mpande:
    sowhatar
    ewegonnado.
    ..
    .ihav
    e
    pl
    acest
    obe
    *
    **shesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    itsokIcandr
    ive
    Mpande:dri
    vehowwheny
    ou’
    reshaki
    ngl
    i
    ke
    t
    his.
    ..
    eish
    ***
    hesi
    ghedasshedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng.
    ..
    .af
    ter
    somequi
    etti
    mehespoke**
    *
    Mpande:thatt
    imeint
    hehospi
    tal
    uthei
    pipi
    lami
    l
    enzani(whatdidy
    ousayaboutmyp*ni
    s)
    ***
    Hill
    sfrozeandsheswal
    l
    owedhard.
    ..
    .she
    di
    dn’tunderst
    andwhyhewoul
    dbri
    ngthatup
    now***
    Mpande:
    ngi
    yabuzaweNt
    abeni
    (im aski
    ngHi
    l
    ls)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youal
    socal
    l
    edmef
    eti
    boom boom
    Mpande:welly
    ou’renott
    hatbigsoI
    exagger
    atedabitcauseyoubrui
    sedmyegobut
    Iknowmyd* ckisnotsmallsowhyipi
    piandnot
    i
    khanda(thehead)ormybr owneyesoreven
    mybigfeet
    ..
    .whyi pipi
    pho.
    ..
    ipipil
    ami
    l
    akwenzaniwal
    i
    t hukakangaka(whatdidmy
    d*
    ckdot oyoufory outoi
    nsultitt
    hatmuch)
    *
    **shesi
    ghed.
    ..
    .shecoul
    dn’
    tbel
    i
    evet
    hisguy
    ***
    Hil
    l
    s:sorr
    yforbr
    uisi
    ngy
    ouregoIj
    ustgot
    def
    ensiv
    enje
    Mpande: okmanj eungizwekahl ewenaumama
    wokuBr uis(a)amaEgowebant ubesi li
    sa.
    ..
    .
    angi
    shay iabafazikodwanextt imeukhul uma
    amasimbangepi pi l
    ami ngiyokshay ange
    spi
    nningki ckekhandabesengi kushay enge
    chokesl am mangi qedangi thir
    esti npeace
    yeUnder takeruziny el
    e( nowl i
    stent omeMi ss
    egobruiser. .
    ..
    idon’tbeatwomenbutnextt i
    me
    youtalksh* taboutmyp* nisI ’
    llhi
    ty ouwitha
    spi
    nningki ckony ourheadt henI ’
    l
    lchokesl am
    youandwheni m doneI’lluseunder taker’
    srest
    i
    npeaceandy ou’l
    lsh*ty ourself
    )
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsf
    oundher
    sel
    flaughi
    ngoutl
    oudand
    Mpandej
    ustsmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:uy
    ahl
    eka(y
    ou’
    rel
    aughi
    ng)andi
    m
    ser
    ious
    Hi
    ll
    s:aski
    esbutwrest
    li
    ngmov
    es
    Mpande..
    ..
    real
    l
    y??
    ?
    *
    **shesai
    dasshecont
    inuedt
    olaugh*
    **
    Mpande:
    what
    ’swr
    ongwi
    tht
    hem
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    ummm not
    hing
    *
    **shesai
    dasshehel
    dherl
    aughi
    n**
    *
    Mpande:
    ory
    ouwantmet
    oshowy
    ounow
    ***
    hesai
    dopeninghisdoorandsheshookher
    headnohol
    dinginherl
    aughter
    ***
    Mpande:
    ngint
    swenbukabi(imt
    oogood)wi
    th
    t
    hosemov esMrsegobr
    uiser
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    don’
    tcal
    lmet
    hat
    Mpande:
    okNt
    abeni
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    real
    l
    ynow
    Mpande:
    mmmmhi
    tsui
    tsy
    oubet
    ter
    *
    **shel
    ookedaway
    ***
    Mpande:songit
    shel
    ela..
    ..ut
    hiy
    ouf oundwho
    andwhobedlana(nowt ellme.
    ..
    .y
    ousaidyou
    foundwhoandwhof *ck*ng)
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Hi
    ll
    s:mysoont
    obehusbandandsomewhi
    te
    woman
    Mpande:mmmmh. ..
    .souguyut handaothekeni
    boknukawetchi
    ckenfeat
    hers(sot heguylikes
    womenwhosmel lli
    kewetchickenf eat
    hers)
    **
    *shel
    aughednotl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m andhe
    smil
    edagai
    n**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    stopok
    Mpande:imtel
    li
    ngy
    ou.
    ..
    .bay
    anuka(t
    heysmel
    l
    )
    mostofthem..
    ..
    soy
    oualmostki
    ll
    edme
    becauseoft
    hat
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Mpande: you’
    renotseri
    ous.
    ..
    ..sowil
    l y
    ou
    for
    givehim...
    areyouoneofthose
    ababekezelayoamasimba(whot ol
    eratesh*
    t)
    i
    nar elat
    ionship
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Iser
    vedhi
    m wi
    thdi
    vor
    cepaper
    s
    Mpande:
    mmmmht
    hat
    ’sgood
    ***
    shetookadeepbr eath.
    ..
    .shedidn’
    t
    underst
    andwhyshewasst il
    lher
    ewi t
    hhi
    m and
    tel
    l
    inghim al
    lthese.
    ..
    .he’
    sthesameguythat
    cal
    ledherfat
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:It
    hinki
    mfi
    nenow.
    ..
    .icanbeabl
    etodr
    ive
    mysel
    f.
    ..
    .
    Mpande:
    I’
    ll
    sendy
    oumyi
    nvoi
    cet
    hen
    *
    **shet
    ookadeepbr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    ok.
    ..
    thanksf
    or.
    ..
    .ev
    ery
    thi
    ng
    *
    **henoddedandopenedthedoorandgotout
    t
    henhewenttohiscar*
    **
    Hil
    l
    s:todayi
    sreal
    l
    ynotmyday
    ..
    .shootIdi
    dn’
    t
    askforhi
    snumbers
    ***sheopenedherdoortoaskf orhisnumbers
    buthewasal readydri
    vi
    ngaway ..
    ..
    .shesi
    ghed
    andgotoutofhercarandwentt oseethe
    damageandshesi gheddef
    eated..
    .shewentto
    thedriv
    ersideandgotinthenshedr oveoff
    ***

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL

    ***
    Alphal
    ett
    ewenttothecaf
    eter
    iat
    obuyMasai
    andhissonsnacks**
    *
    AJ:
    mommy
    Masai
    :yespapa
    AJ:
    amandushdushdushdush
    *
    **hesai
    dimi
    tat
    ingagunshot
    ***
    AJ:
    awomandot
    his.
    ..
    *
    **hesai
    dandhei
    mit
    atedsomeonef
    all
    i
    ng*
    **
    AJ:
    andmant
    ookr
    ingandl
    eav
    e
    Masai
    :heh
    *
    **shesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    AJ:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    ..
    mommy
    Masai
    :yespapa
    AJ:
    don’
    tcr
    y
    Masai
    :buti
    m notcr
    ying.
    ..
    yousee
    *
    **shesai
    dsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    AJ:notl
    i
    kehihi
    hi.
    ..
    .don’
    tcr
    ymommy
    ..
    ..
    Khul
    u
    don’
    twanty
    outocry
    *
    **Masai
    frownedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Masai
    :whi
    chKhul
    u
    AJ:
    ^wakhul
    umi
    Nkhosi
    ..
    ..
    wenawakhul
    umi
    ndabasemkhodoNkhosi.
    ..
    ohhohhahh.
    ..
    .aha
    ahah..
    ..
    Khul
    umiKhosi
    ..
    ..
    ^
    **
    *hesangplayi
    ngwithhi
    sf i
    nger
    sandMasai
    j
    ustl
    ookedathim notsur
    ewhatt omakeof
    whatj
    usthappenedandthissongofhi
    s**
    *
    Masai
    :Khai
    AJ:
    mommy
    Masai
    :whi
    chKhul
    u
    AJ:
    myKhul
    u..
    ..
    Masai
    :youhav
    eaKhul
    u
    AJ:
    mmmmh
    *
    **hesai
    dnoddi
    ng*
    **
    Masai
    :youmeanKhul
    uatgogo’
    shouse?
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheadno*
    **
    Masai
    :ok.
    ..
    wher
    edoeshest
    ay
    AJ:wakhul
    umi Nkhosi
    ..
    ..
    wenawaKhul
    umi
    ndabasemkhodoNkhosi.
    ..
    ohhohhahh.
    ..
    .aha
    ahah.
    ..
    .Khul
    umi
    Khosi
    ..
    ..
    **
    *hesangnotanswer
    inghi
    smot hert
    hen
    Al
    phal
    ettewal
    kedinandAJstoppedsingi
    ng*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    lookwhatIboughty
    ouchamp
    ***
    AJsmi l
    edandAlphal
    ett
    egavehi
    m his
    gummybear sjel
    l
    ysweetsandhegaveMasai
    hersnackstooandhecoul
    dseesomethi
    ng
    wasbotheri
    ngher**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’swr
    ong
    Masai
    :AJjustsai
    dsomethi
    ngweir
    dtome.
    ..
    .he
    sai
    dKhul
    udoesn’twantmetocr
    y
    *
    **Al
    phaf
    rowned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whi
    chKhul
    u
    *
    **sheshr
    uggedhershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Masai:Idon’
    tknowandIt hinkhewatcheda
    mov i
    ehe’snotsupposedtowat chatyour
    mother’
    splace.
    ..
    .hewastelli
    ngmeaboutaman
    shooti
    ngawomanandt akingherri
    ng
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    tal
    ktoMaaboutt
    hatdon’
    twor
    ry
    *
    **shenoddedandopenedt
    hepl
    ast
    ic*
    **
    Masai
    :andt
    hiswei
    rdsonghekeepssi
    ngi
    ng
    t
    hatonl
    yhecanunder
    stand.
    ..
    .ai
    Al
    pha:
    whi
    chsong
    Masai
    :Ithi
    nkit
    sinZul
    uorsomet hi
    ng.
    ..
    .Imean
    hedoesn’
    tevenknowI
    sizul
    u..
    ..
    .aiy
    ourson
    Phal
    ett
    e
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    elookedathi
    sson*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    champ
    AJ:
    mmmmh
    ***
    heansweredchowi
    ngonhi
    sjel
    l
    ysweet
    s
    noddi
    ngasifhe’
    sdanci
    ngt
    oasong**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    singt
    hesongy
    ouwer
    esi
    ngi
    ngf
    or
    mommy
    *
    **Heshookhi
    sheadno*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    pleaseboysi
    ngf
    ordaddy
    **
    *heshookhi
    sheadnoagai
    nandhehummed
    asongeati
    ng*
    **
    Masai
    :yoursoni
    swei
    rd
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Alpha:he’
    sourson.
    ..
    rememberwemadehi
    m
    together
    Masai
    :mxm l
    i
    kef
    atherl
    i
    keson
    *
    **Al
    phal
    aughed*
    **

    _
    ___

    Man:im sorrybutIcan’thelpyou.
    ..
    .Icanonly
    giveyouclari
    tyonsomeoft hequesti
    onsthat
    aretr
    oubli
    ngy ou.
    ...
    im gonnabet r
    uthf
    ulwith
    youson..
    ..
    ..whatyouhav eis..
    ..
    bey
    ondmy
    powers
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedandt
    hemanl
    ookedar
    oundhi
    s
    ancest ralhutandi twasf il
    ledwi thblacksmoke
    ont hecei lingt
    hat’
    smov i
    ngar oundi n
    circles...heswallowedhar dandhesi ghed
    l
    ooki ngdown, heneededt ot r
    usthi sancest or
    s
    forpr otectioncauset hisisbey ondhi m..
    ..
    he
    closedhi seyesandhecoul dseet hedar k
    shadowofsomesor tofamy sticalmonst er
    out sidehi sy ar
    dstandi ngtherel ookinginside
    hisy ar d...
    .heknewt hiswasbey ondhi spower s
    asast rongandwel lknownt r
    aditionalhealer
    buthi sancest orstoldhim nott ot urnhim
    away * *
    *
    Gaza:
    thenwhocanhel
    pme
    Man: t
    heonl ymanIknowt hatcanhel pyoui sin
    Congoinar emot evi
    ll
    ageandagai nhemi ght
    betr
    ayy ouandst abyouint hebackcausewhat
    youhave, t
    oamanl i
    kehimi str
    easure..
    ..
    ifyou
    gotohimf orhelpim af
    raidt her
    e’sahigh
    possi
    bil
    itythatyoumightnotmakei tback. .
    .he
    wil
    lneverletyougo
    *
    *Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    isheaf
    ri
    endofy
    our
    s
    *
    **t
    het
    radi
    ti
    onal
    heal
    ersi
    ghed*
    **
    Man: wheny ouhav ethiskindofgi ftIhav e
    somet imesy ouf eell
    ikeit’
    snotenough. ..
    .you
    gettempt edtobemor epower ful,mor e
    str
    ongerandy ouf orgetthepur poseofy our
    gif
    t..
    ..
    youendupent eri
    ngpl acesy oushoul dn’
    t
    enterandbei ngf ri
    endswi t
    hpeopl eyou
    shouldn’tbef r
    iendswi th.
    ..
    .i
    m gl adIcameback
    tomysensesbef oreGodandmyancest ors
    tur
    nedt heirbacksonme. .
    ..
    nowi m contentwith
    mygi ftandIusei tf
    orgood
    *
    **Gazanoddedandhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Man:whendi
    dyour
    eal
    i
    zedy
    ou’
    renotal
    onei
    n
    t
    hatbody
    Gaza:whenIhadmyfir
    stki
    l
    l..
    ..
    thatone
    deser
    vedtodie.
    ..
    hewasevi
    li
    twasei t
    hermeor
    hi
    m
    Gaza:
    then.
    ..
    .t
    her
    ear
    eothers.
    ..
    .somedeser
    ved
    i
    tsomenotsomuchbutit
    ’sdone
    **
    * hesi
    ghedt
    henhechuckl
    edast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledhi
    s
    eyes***
    Gaza: IknewwhenIwokeupf rom t
    hatplaceI
    waskeptcapt iv
    et hatsomethingwaswr ong
    wit
    hme. .
    ..
    evenwhenIst ar
    tedtoremember
    whoIam Iknewsomet hi
    ngwaswr ongbutI
    keptittomy sel
    f.
    ..
    itdoesn’
    tbothermeand
    somet imesIevenf or
    getIhaveit.
    ..
    ..wel
    lthat
    ’s
    unti
    l.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Man:
    itf
    eedsofy
    ouremot
    ions.
    ..
    ..
    *
    **t
    hemansi
    ghedandhekeptqui
    ett
    hinki
    ng*
    **
    Man:youknewsomet hi
    ngwasputinsidey ou
    befor
    ey ouescapeddi dn’
    tyouandthatwhen
    youhady ourf i
    rstki
    l
    lbutbecausey
    oul osty our
    memor yt hatt
    hingstayedi
    nthedarkwaitingf or
    thedayy ou’l
    lrememberwhoy ouareandt hat’s
    whenitwokeup...
    .andthat
    ’swhyy ou
    rememberever
    ythingthathappenedtoy
    ou
    evenwhenyou“lost“yourmemor y
    ***Gazadi dn’tsayany t
    hing..
    .hel
    iedto
    Alphalettethather emember sbit
    sandpi eces
    aboutwhenhewasabduct edbutthetr
    uthof
    themat t
    erisher emember sever
    ythi
    ng..
    ..
    ever
    y
    l
    itt
    lethingev ent heri
    tualthatwasdonewhen
    thatthingwasputi nhim* **
    Man:
    yho!
    !
    *
    **heexcl
    aimed.
    ..
    thi
    swasbey
    ondhi
    m**
    *
    Gaza:sohowdoIl ivewithi
    t.
    ..
    .idon’tthi
    nkIcan
    contr
    ol i
    t.
    ..
    .i
    thasami ndofit
    sown. .
    ..whenit
    wantstodosomet hingIcan’
    tstopit..
    ..i
    tcan
    hideit
    sselfIthi
    nkt hat’
    swhymybr othercant
    seeitbuthecant ellsomethi
    ngisof f
    ***
    themanpi ckshisancest
    ral
    bonesagain.
    ..
    his
    handsareshakingnowashebl owsonthem
    andhethrowst hem ontopoft
    hegoatski
    nand
    r
    eadst
    hem*
    **
    Man:
    mmmmhIsee
    *
    **hel
    ookedatGaza*
    **
    Man: t
    heisamanhe’ spowerful.
    ..
    .more
    powerfult
    hany oucanthink.
    ..
    .thebonessay
    he’scl
    oser.
    ..
    .heknowsabouty ouandwhatwas
    putinyoubuthemi ghtnothelpy oubecausehe
    onceencounteredthatthi
    nginy ouandhet ri
    ed
    tohelptheonedearesttohim buthefailed.
    ..
    .i
    t
    kil
    l
    edherinstead
    Gaza:
    someonecl
    oser
    ..
    .
    *
    **heaskedhi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Man:mmmmh. ..
    .ther
    e’saloty
    ou’
    rest
    il
    lgonna
    f
    indout
    ..
    ..
    .j
    ustknowyou’r
    enottheonl
    yone
    Gaza:
    whatdoest
    hatmean
    Man:itmeansIcan’
    thelpyoubutthecleansi
    ng
    wi
    llgetri
    dofthebadluckanddarkcloud
    f
    oll
    owingy ouar
    ound.
    ...
    .Lety
    ourfatherdothe
    cl
    eansi
    ngf
    ory
    ou
    *
    **t
    hemanl
    ookedatGazaagai
    n**
    *
    Man:i
    twi
    l
    lal
    socl
    eant
    hebl
    oodIseeony
    our
    hands
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    ismywi
    fei
    nvol
    vedi
    nwhathappenedt
    o
    me
    Man: whenIfi
    rstthr
    ewt hebonesIsawt wo
    olderwomen, amanandawi t
    chdoctor..
    .the
    twool derwomenandt hemanar eclosestto
    you..
    ..thosearetheoneswhopl ott
    edt ohave
    yout urnedint
    othatthi
    ng,eachwi ththeirown
    selfi
    shandev ilr
    easons..
    ..
    .asf
    ory our
    wife.
    ...she’
    sapawni nagame. .
    ..
    theyblinded
    herbut ..
    ..
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Man:shelovest
    hetwoofyou.
    ..
    ..
    shecan’
    tlet
    ei
    theroneofyougoandt
    hathasgotnothi
    ngto
    dowithwitchcraf
    t.
    ..
    ..
    .andasforthat
    wit
    chdoctor,hewasexper i
    mentingwit
    hyou
    whathelearnedinCongoandhecr eat
    ed
    somethi
    ngbey ondhim. .
    ..
    he’
    sluckyhe’
    sdead
    *
    **t
    heSangomashookhi
    shead*
    **
    Man: somepeopl ehav eevilheart
    s..
    ..
    hedidn’
    t
    evenknowwhathewasdoi ng..
    ..
    butim gl
    ad
    you’
    rest i
    llal
    iv
    e..
    ..j
    ustknowy ou’renottheonl
    y
    oneandonl yyoucanchoset obeevilor
    good...
    .onceyoumaket hatchoicethenyouwill
    real
    l
    yknowwhet heryoucancont roli
    tornot
    ***
    Gazakeptqui
    etlosti
    nthought
    s..
    ..
    .Hetook
    outastackofmoneyandputitonthefl
    oorand
    heclappedhi
    spal
    ms* **
    Gaza:
    thokozaMkhul
    u..
    .
    *
    **t
    hemannoddedt
    henGazagotupt
    o
    l
    eav
    e**
    *
    Man:im alway
    shereify
    oucan’
    ttal
    ktoyour
    br
    other.
    ..
    .butj
    ustknowwhatheknows
    somet
    hingi
    sof
    fandhe’
    swor
    ri
    edabouty
    ou
    ***Gazadi
    dn’
    tsayany t
    hinghejustwal
    kedout
    andt hemansighed..
    .hegotupandcalledout
    tooneofhisini
    tiat
    esandt oldhimtoprepar
    e
    cleansi
    ngwaterforhim, heneedstocl
    eanse
    hisancest
    ral
    hutandy ard**
    *

    _
    ___

    ***Tareki
    sbusypaci ngupanddowni nhi
    s
    offi
    cefeel
    inghot.
    ..
    .heincreasestheai
    rcornin
    hi
    sof f
    iceandlookedatt hetorntopi
    eces
    di
    v or
    cepapersalloverthefloorandhehuff
    ed
    andwentt osi
    tdown* **
    Tar
    ek:doesthi
    smeanshedi
    dcheatandshe’
    s
    l
    eavi
    ngmef orhim
    *
    **heaskedhi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Tar
    ek:
    nah.
    ..
    notHi
    l
    ls.
    ..
    .t
    hewayshewal
    kedout
    meansshest
    il
    llovesme...
    .t
    hatpai
    nonherface
    meansshest
    il
    llovesme...
    .y
    esshedoes.
    ..
    .but
    t
    hedivor
    cepapers.
    ..
    eish
    ***
    hehuff
    edandtookhisphoneandashe’s
    aboutt
    omakeaphonecal l
    hisphoneri
    ngsand
    i
    t’
    shismother
    ..
    .hesi
    ghedandanswered***
    Tar
    ek:
    Ma
    Hi
    s.Mot
    her
    :heybaby
    *
    **shesai
    dsoundi
    ngdown*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    what
    ’swr
    ongy
    ousounddown
    Hi
    s.mother:
    whenwast
    hel
    astt
    imey
    ouspoke
    wi
    thyourfather
    Tar
    ek:
    ummm Idon’
    tknowi
    tsbeenawhi
    l
    enow
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    what
    sgoi
    ngonMa
    His.
    mother
    :yourf
    atherhasn’
    tbeenhomeina
    coupl
    eofdaysandhe’signor
    ingmycall
    s..
    ..
    i
    don’
    tknowwhatt
    odoany
    mor
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dsni
    ff
    ing*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    what
    ..
    ..
    whydi
    dn’
    tyout
    ell
    me
    Hi
    s.mother
    :it
    ’snotsomet
    hingamot
    hercan
    t
    alktohersonabout
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandr
    ubbedhi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    letmecal
    lhi
    m
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :ok
    *
    **heendedthecal
    lwit
    hheranddi
    all
    edhi
    s
    f
    ather
    ’snumbersandheanswer
    ed*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    son
    Tar
    ek:
    babahowar
    eyou
    Mazwakhe:
    im st
    il
    lal
    i
    veandy
    ou
    Tarek:i
    m ok..
    .ummm baba.
    ..
    .Majustcal
    l
    edme
    andshet ol
    dmey ouhaven’
    tbeenhomef ora
    coupleofdays
    *
    **Mazwakhekeptqui
    etabi
    t*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    yest
    hat
    ’st
    rue
    *
    **Tar
    ekf
    rownedbecauseofhi
    sresponse*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    what
    ’sgoi
    ngon.
    ..
    ..
    howcany
    oudot
    his
    toMa
    Mazwakhe:don’
    tgeti
    nvol
    vedson.
    ..
    whati
    s
    happeni
    ngisbet
    weenyourmotherandIi
    s
    betweenus
    Tarek:whatdoyoumeanIshouldn’
    tget
    i
    nvolved.
    ..
    she’
    smymot herorhaveyou
    for
    gottenthat
    !!
    Mazwakhe:
    okmama’sboy
    ...
    tell
    yourmot her
    t
    hatI’
    l
    lcomebackhomewhenshe’ sreadyto
    t
    ell
    met het
    rut
    haboutt
    hetwins’real
    father
    Tar
    ek:
    wh.
    .what
    *
    **hi
    sfat
    hersi
    ghed*
    **
    Mazwakhe:
    Ihav
    etogo.
    ..
    .wewi
    l
    ltal
    k
    ***
    thenheendedthecal
    ll
    eavingTar
    ek
    shocked.
    ..
    hedi
    all
    edhismother’
    snumber
    sand
    sheanswer
    ed*
    **
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :di
    dyouf
    indhi
    m
    Tar
    ek:mawhatdoesbabameanwhenhesay
    s
    hewil
    lonl
    ycomebackhomewhenyou’
    rer
    eady
    tot
    ell
    himthereal
    fat
    heroft
    het
    wins
    *
    **Hi
    smot
    herf
    roze*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    ma?
    ?
    **
    *st
    il
    lnothi
    ngthent
    hecal
    lwasdr
    opped.
    ..
    .he
    l
    ookedathisphonet
    ryi
    ngt
    omakeoutwhat
    washappening**
    *

    _
    ___

    ***Hetookadeepbreat
    hbeforeheknockedon
    thedoorandsoonthedooropenedandMdu
    stoodther
    eholdi
    ngababyinhisarmsandhis
    angershotup..
    ..AssoonasMdu’ smi nd
    regi
    ster
    swhathe’ sseeingheal
    mostdr opsthe
    baby.
    ...
    .hisphonef al
    l
    stothefl
    oorashel ooks
    atGazawi thhi
    sey espoppedout..
    .Gazawal ks
    i
    npushi nghim outofthewaysteppinghar don
    hisphoneonpur posecracki
    ngitsscreen* **
    Voi
    ce:
    whoi
    sit
    ..
    ..
    *
    **Mari
    naaskedandassoonasherey
    es
    l
    andedonGazashefai
    nted*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ***Mari
    naisnowawakeandsi tt
    ingononeof
    thecouchessobbingsil
    ent
    lyandGazai sj
    ust
    sit
    ti
    ngtherel
    ookingather.
    ..
    .Hecouldn’
    tbeli
    eve
    thi
    sisthesamewomanhel ovedsodear l
    ythat
    heevenchangedhi soldwaysbecausehe
    wantedtobeabet termanforher.
    ..
    .hi
    seyes
    thenwenttohiscousinwholooksshakenev en
    t
    houghhe’st
    ryi
    ngsohardtohi
    det
    hathe
    i
    s..
    ..
    .Hecl
    ear
    edhist
    hroat
    ***
    Gaza:
    whyar
    eyoust
    il
    lher
    eMdu
    *
    **Mduf
    rowned*
    **
    Mdu::whatdoyoumeanbyt
    hat.
    ..
    .t
    her
    e’s
    nowhereinhel
    li
    mleavi
    ngmychi
    ldandMari
    na
    al
    onewithyou
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:who’shousei
    sthi
    sdearcousi
    n..
    .ordi
    d
    youperhapshelpmebui
    ldi
    t
    *
    **Mdudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Gaza:nowl i
    stenher
    e..
    ..
    takey
    ourbast
    ardchi
    l
    d
    andgetthehel l
    outofmyhouseandMduy ou
    have5mi nutestodoso
    ***
    Mdul ookedatMari
    naforbackupbutMar i
    na
    avoi
    dedhiseyesandhechuckledshakinghi
    s
    head.
    ..
    hegotupwi t
    hhisdaughteri
    nhisarms
    andhepickedthebabybagandwal kedoutand
    Mar
    inasobbedl
    ouder
    ***
    Gaza:
    Mar
    ina.
    ..
    .Mar
    ina.
    ..
    .
    Mar
    ina:
    im sor
    ryGaza.
    ..
    i.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesobbed*
    **
    Gaza:whatar
    ey ousorr
    yabout..
    ..
    .t
    hecheati
    ng
    orthebabyort
    hef actt
    hathe’
    smybl ood
    cousi
    northatyoutwoarestil
    lf*
    cking..
    ..
    whi
    ch
    oneareyousorryabout
    **
    *shejustcr
    ied..
    ..
    hebr
    eat
    hedoutcal
    ming
    hi
    mselfdown* *
    *
    Gaza:
    why
    ..
    ..
    whyhi
    m
    Mar
    ina:
    Imadeami
    stake
    Gaza:howwheny
    ou’
    rest
    il
    lsl
    eepi
    ngwi
    thhi
    m
    heh.
    ..
    .how!
    !!
    *
    **shej
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Gaza:doyouev
    enlov
    emeory
    ouj
    ustset
    tl
    ed
    becauseofmymoney
    Mar
    ina:
    Ilov
    eyouIj
    ustmadeami
    stake
    Gaza:
    stopsayi
    ngi
    t’
    sami
    stakebecausei
    t’
    snot
    damnit!
    !!
    !.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shej
    umpedl
    ooki
    ngscar
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    wher
    eismyson
    Mar
    ina:
    he.
    ..
    .he’
    swi
    thy
    ourf
    ather
    Gaza:
    soyougotr
    idofhi
    m soy
    out
    wocanf
    *ck
    i
    npeace
    Marina:yourf
    athert
    ookhi
    m baby
    ..
    .iswearand
    Icouldn’
    tfi
    ghthim
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    edst
    andi
    ngup*
    **
    Gaza:
    sol
    yi
    nghasbecomet
    hiseasyf
    ory
    ou
    now
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Gaza:
    ok
    ***
    hewenttothei
    rbedr
    oom andMar
    inagotup
    shaki
    ngandshepacedaroundt
    hel
    ounge.
    ..
    .she
    t
    ookherphoneandmadeacal
    ltoher
    mot
    her**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER25
    .
    .
    .
    Mar
    ina:
    Ma
    Her
    .mot
    her
    :Mar
    inamybaby
    Marina:
    MaGazai
    sal
    i
    ve.
    ..
    he’
    sher
    eatt
    he
    house
    *
    **shesai
    dpani
    cki
    ng*
    **
    Her
    .mot
    her
    :whatarey
    outalki
    ngabout.
    ..
    .don’
    t
    t
    ell
    meyou’
    reseei
    ngghost
    snowMar ina
    Mari
    na:whywoul
    dhebeaghostmama. ..
    .he
    di
    sappear
    edhehasn’
    tbeendecl
    areddeadyet
    Her.
    mother:
    youknowwhatImeanman.
    ..
    .wai
    t
    Tsakanei
    scall
    i
    ngmeholdon
    ***
    Gazacamebackandhestoodther
    elooki
    ng
    atMari
    nawhoimmediat
    elydr
    oppedthecall
    shaki
    ng**
    *
    Gaza:
    wher
    ear
    emycl
    othes?
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Mari
    na:
    i.
    ..
    .iputt
    hem saf
    elyi
    n..
    ..
    int
    hespar
    e
    bedr
    oom
    Gaza:
    why
    *
    **herphonerangandi
    twashermot
    her
    ..
    .she
    j
    ustleti
    tri
    ng*
    * *
    Gaza:
    aren’
    tyougonnaanswert
    hat
    *
    **shesl
    owl
    yanswer
    edt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Gaza:
    loudspeaker
    ***
    shesl owl
    yputitonl
    oudspeakerwi
    thher
    heartbeati
    ngfast
    ***
    Mar
    ina:
    ma.
    ..
    you’
    reonl
    ou.
    ..
    .
    Gaza:
    shhh
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Mar
    ina:
    hel
    l
    oma
    Her
    .mother
    :Tsakaneur
    iMduwast her
    eandhe
    methi
    mt oo.
    ..
    .howisi
    tpossi
    ble.
    ..
    .areyousur
    e
    i
    tsr
    eal
    lyhim Mari
    na
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thashakyt
    one*
    **
    Gaza:
    yesi
    tsme
    ***
    Mari
    na’
    smot herf
    rozethenthecal
    ldr
    opped
    andGazachuckl
    edshakinghishead*
    **
    Gaza:yahneh.
    ..
    ..
    .any
    waytellyourmother,
    my
    auntandyourbabydaddythatIsai
    dletthe
    gamesbegin
    *
    **Mar
    inaf
    rowned*
    **
    Gaza:t
    ell
    them t
    heyshoul
    dhav
    ehadmeki
    l
    led
    i
    nstead
    Mar
    ina:wh..
    .what.
    ..
    .whatdoy
    oumeanby
    t
    hat
    ...
    .whatareyoutry
    ingt
    osay
    Gaza:im gi
    v i
    ngyouamonthtovacatemy
    houseMar ina.
    ..
    onl
    yamonthsinceyouboreme
    asonbecausei fnotI
    ’l
    lbedr
    aggingyououtl
    i
    ke
    thetr
    ashy ouareri
    ghtnow
    *
    **herl
    i
    psshook*
    **
    Mari
    na:Gazawaitummm. ..
    lookIloveyouand
    wecangof ormarr
    iagecounsell
    i
    ngandf ix
    us.
    ..
    .i
    m sor
    ry.
    ..
    i’
    l
    lstayawayfrom him..
    ..
    please
    don’
    tdot
    hisi
    m beggi
    ngy
    ou
    *
    **hel
    ookedatherannoy
    ed*
    ***
    Gaza:outofcommuni t
    yof
    pr
    operty.
    ..
    .r
    emember .
    ..
    ..
    amonthMari
    na.
    ..a
    monthorI’l
    lgetphy
    sicalandwebot
    hdon’t
    wantthat
    *
    **t
    henhewal
    kedt
    othedoor
    ***
    Mari
    na:
    Gazawait.
    ..
    .canwet
    alkaboutt
    his
    pl
    easei
    m beggi
    ngyou
    ***shetri
    edtograbhim astear
    srandownher
    cheeksbutheshov edheroffandshe
    staggeredbackalmostlosi
    ngherbal
    anceand
    hewal kedout*
    **
    Marina:
    no..
    .nonono.
    ..
    oohmyGodno.
    ..
    .t
    hisi
    s
    nothappeni
    ng
    ***
    shesai
    dwi
    thherhandsont
    opofher
    head*
    **
    _
    ___

    ATHEATH’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Jabufindshissonsit
    ti
    ngoutsi
    deintheback
    pati
    olostinhi
    sthoughtsandhesighedandsat
    nexttohi
    m. .
    ..
    heclear
    edhisthr
    oatfeel
    i
    ng
    nervous***
    Jabu:
    canwet
    alk
    **
    *Sbuj
    ustnoddedl
    ooki
    ngdownandJabu
    si
    ghedr
    ubbinghi
    spalmstoget
    her
    ***
    Jabu:Inegl
    ectedyounotbecauseIdon’
    tcare
    butbecauseIwasashamedandIt houghtyou
    seemeasaf ai
    lur
    e
    *
    **Sbudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu:Icouldn’tsav
    eyoursi
    sterSbuandi
    ts
    ki
    ll
    ingmei nside
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    dsodi
    dSbu*
    **
    Jabu:.
    ..
    .al
    lIwant
    edwast ogiv
    eyouafamil
    y..
    .a
    motherandawarm homeandwhenshe
    changedIbecameindenial
    andIhopedshe
    wouldchangebacktotheAmoIfell
    inl
    ovewith
    but.
    ..
    *
    **hi
    sbr
    eat
    hshookashesi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    im sorr
    yIfail
    edyoubuddy .
    ..
    .ifail
    edyou
    wit
    hyourbiol
    ogicalmotherandnowwi th
    Amo..
    ..
    im sor
    ryyoulostyourli
    tt
    lesisterandI
    wasn’
    tthereforyou
    *
    **Sbust
    art
    edsobbi
    ngsi
    l
    ent
    ly*
    **
    Jabu:Il
    ov eyoubuddyandy oumeanev er
    ythi
    ng
    tome...
    .you’retheonl ysonandchil
    dIhav e
    now..
    ..
    ilearnedtobeaf atherkawenaboy .
    ..
    .i
    m
    sorr
    yIwasn’ tther
    ef oryoubutim here
    now..
    ..
    andI ’
    llf
    ixmy selfandbebetterfor
    you.
    ..
    ..
    kef l
    opileblaen(Imessedupbad)and
    asparentswewi l
    lflophereandtherebutthat
    doesn’
    tmeanwedon’tcar
    eorloveyou..
    .weare
    humanandthere’
    sasayi
    ngthatsaystoAiris
    humanandtoforgi
    vei
    sDev i
    ne.
    ..
    .sohaarde
    mfanaka(i
    m sorr
    ymyboy )
    ***
    Hepul l
    edhi
    mt ohischestandheldhi
    mtight
    asheletoutaloudsobgrabbingontohi
    sshirt
    ti
    ght.
    ..
    .t
    earsr
    andownJabu’ scheeksashe
    consol
    edhisson***
    Jabu:wegonnabeokIpr
    omi
    sebuddy
    ..
    ..
    we
    gonnabeok
    ***
    Hesaidwithabr
    eaki
    ngv oi
    ceandSbuj ust
    cri
    edholdi
    ngontohi
    sfather .
    ..
    aft
    ersomet i
    me
    hecalmeddownandisleftwithhiccupsand
    sni
    ffsbuthedi
    dn’
    tmovef rom hisfather
    ’s
    chest*
    **
    Sbu:
    Idon’
    tbl
    amey
    out
    hai
    ma
    *
    **hesni
    ff
    ed*
    **
    Sbu:
    ...
    .ij
    ustneededyou.
    ..
    .shebr
    okeusand
    nowshedi edwit
    houtsayi
    ngsorr
    yforf
    ail
    i
    ng
    youespecial
    lyme..
    ..
    isawamot herinher
    papa..
    ..
    ionceevenfoughtwit
    hmybi ol
    ogical
    motherbecausesheinsult
    edher.
    ..
    .shemade
    met ast
    ehav i
    ngalovi
    ngandcaringmot herand
    awar m homethenshealsotookthataway
    fr
    om me. .
    ..
    ican’
    tevenaskherwhynow. .
    ..
    **
    *Hesni
    ff
    edwipi
    nghi
    ssnortandJabu
    swal
    l
    owedhar
    dandSbusobbedagain*
    **
    Sbu:i
    m hur
    ti
    ngpapa.
    ..
    .i
    tshur
    tssobad.
    ..
    ..
    imi
    ss
    Li
    leandherl
    aught
    er
    Jabu:Imi
    sshert
    oobuddy
    ..
    ..
    .al
    ot.
    ..
    .wegonna
    beok..
    .wi
    tht
    imewewil
    lbeokwankutlwa(you
    hearme)
    *
    **SbunoddedasJabuwi
    pedhi
    sownt
    ear
    s**
    *
    Jabu:
    let
    sstopt
    hesecryi
    ngsessi
    onscausei
    f
    peopl
    eseeuswewill
    loseourstr
    eetcr
    ed
    ***hesai
    dandchuckledandSbugotoffJabu’
    s
    chestandhechuckl
    edlight
    lywipi
    nghisown
    tearst
    hentheyhear
    dacardr i
    vi
    nginthenplus
    orminusmi
    nutesl
    aterdoor
    sopenedandt
    hey
    cl
    osedagai
    n**
    *
    Sbu:
    thai
    ma.
    ..
    am Ii
    ntr
    oubl
    efor
    ..
    ..
    *
    **hecoul
    dn’
    tev
    ensayi
    t**
    *
    Jabu:l
    eavet
    hatt
    ome. .
    .don’tev
    enthi
    nkabout
    i
    t..
    ..
    meandyouruncl
    eshav eevery
    thi
    ngunder
    contr
    olok
    *
    **Sbunodded*
    **
    Jabu:
    buty
    ourpuni
    shmenti
    sst
    il
    lwai
    ti
    ngf
    or
    you
    ***
    Sbuswal
    lowedhar
    d..
    ..t
    hedooropenedand
    i
    nwalkedMJfoll
    owedbyRayandRaylooks
    annoy
    ed***
    Ray
    :Ishoul
    d’v
    erequest
    edanUberf
    ory
    ou.
    ..
    fool
    Mj:st
    ophat i
    ngBi
    gbr
    o..
    ..
    youknowy
    oul
    oveal
    l
    t
    hishotness.
    ..
    .
    Ray
    :f*
    tseknxa!
    !!
    *
    **MJl
    aughed*
    **
    MJ:
    daddyi
    shome!
    !!
    !
    **
    *heshoutedashewalkedfur
    theri
    nusing
    cr
    utchesandSbuquickl
    ygotupashisfaceli
    t
    upashewal kedi
    nsi
    de***
    MJ:
    comet
    odaddymyson
    ***
    hesai dopeni
    nghisarmswi t
    hahugesmi l
    e
    onhisfaceandSbul aughedshaki
    nghis
    head.
    ..
    hewentt ohim andtheyhugged
    ti
    ght.
    ..
    .Jabualsowalkedinandbrohuggedwit
    h
    Ray**
    *
    Ray
    :yougood
    Jabu:
    kemnat
    e(i
    m good)
    *
    **Raynoddedandhel
    ookedatSbuwho’
    snow
    t
    alki
    ngtoMJlooki
    ngal
    iveagai
    n**
    *
    Jabu:r
    eovil
    e..
    ..
    ithi
    nkretl
    obagr and(we
    tal
    ked.
    ..
    .It
    hinkwewi l
    lbealr
    ight
    )
    *
    **Raynodded*
    **
    Ray:
    butIst
    il
    lneedt
    owhi
    phi
    sa$$f
    ort
    hest
    unt
    hepull
    ed
    Jabu:
    heknows
    Ray
    :good.
    ..
    .wher
    e’sHeat
    h
    Jabu:hesaidhe’
    sgoi
    ngtoCast
    iel
    ’
    s
    house..
    ..
    Cassworehi
    sR53000suitandhe’
    s
    nothappyatall
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Ray
    :im notev
    engonnaask
    MJ:
    KingJ
    *
    **t
    heyhugged*
    **
    Jabu:mf
    anaka.
    ..
    dint
    shang.
    ..
    .andthenwena..
    .
    l
    eoto?(myboy.
    ..
    howar eyou..
    .andyou.
    ..t
    he
    l
    eg?)
    MJ:ei
    shbros.
    ..
    .i
    twasastreetpr
    ankgone
    wr
    ong..
    ..mxm myancest
    orsfail
    edmebigti
    me
    Jabu:
    what
    *
    **Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    MJ: aahmxm. ...
    brossomepeopl ehav eno
    senseofhumourooo. .
    ..
    youseebr osmyf ri
    ends
    andIwedeydopr ankwher eoneoft hem walks
    passedmeandbumpsi ntomyshoul derby
    mistakeandhedoesn’ tapologiseyousee..
    ..
    andashewal ksawayIdeygr absandfrom
    wherehest eppedandputi tintoacalabashti
    ed
    wit
    hbl ackandr edclothsinfrontofpeopleand
    soweseet heirreact
    ions..
    ..
    .
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheaddr
    amat
    ical
    l
    y**
    *
    Mj:
    mxm brosIchosetobet heunder
    cover
    wi
    zardcanyouimagine.
    ..
    .andbrosahh
    mxm...
    ..
    wechosethewrongsectionoft
    hetown
    t
    odot hi
    sooo
    ***heshookhi
    sheadandrai
    sedhi
    sshoulder
    s
    andhesnappedhisfi
    nger
    sandfol
    dedhisarms
    dramatical
    l
    y**
    *
    MJ:
    bros.
    ..mx
    mthebeat
    ingIgotbef
    oreI
    managedt oescape. .
    ..
    .hei
    Chi
    neke.
    ..
    ..Iswear
    evenmyl azyancestorscri
    edf
    ormeooo. ..
    ..
    brosidonsuffer.
    ..
    .ir
    anandcli
    mbedov ersome
    tal
    lwallandwhenIl andedontheot
    hersideI
    brokemyl eg
    Ray
    :st
    rai
    nedy
    ourl
    egst
    opl
    yi
    ngmumu
    MJ:Bi
    gRayIbeg..
    ..
    thi
    sismyst
    oryahah.
    ..
    can’
    t
    youl
    etmetel
    li
    tthewayIseefi
    t
    Ray
    :wi
    thl
    i
    es
    MJ: y
    oumightseei
    tasali
    ebutt
    omei t
    ’st
    he
    tr
    uthooocauseIwasther
    eandher
    eisthe
    proof
    *
    **hesai
    dshowi
    nghi
    m hi
    sleg*
    **
    Ray:Igi
    veupwi t
    hyoumxm. .
    ..
    Jabul
    etsgotalk
    somewhere.
    ..
    .hisst
    orychangesever
    ytimehe
    tel
    li
    ttoadif
    ferentpersonandnowIdon’teven
    knowwhichonei sthetrut
    h
    *
    **Jabul
    aughedf
    oll
    owi
    ngRay
    ***
    Jabu:
    ntwanal
    ater
    MJ:
    I’
    ll
    tel
    lyout
    her
    estoft
    hest
    oryl
    ater
    Jabu:
    sho
    ***
    Sbuwipedhistear
    sstil
    ll
    aughi
    ngcausehe
    knowswhatreal
    lyhappenedtoMJ**
    *
    Sbu:sot
    heydon’
    tknowy ouspr
    ainedyourleg
    whenyoujumpedoverawallaf
    teryourgi
    rl
    ’s
    fat
    heral
    mostcaughtyoutwodoingthedeed
    MJ:shhharey
    oumad.
    ..
    .y
    ouwantmet
    ogeta
    beat
    ingofmyli
    fe
    *
    *Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    MJ:butbros..
    .shedeysweetwel
    lwel
    lbuther
    badbreat
    handst inki
    ngar
    mpitsmademecum
    wit
    hin6strokes..
    ..
    mxm
    *
    **Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    Sbu:
    li
    esshewasj
    ustt
    oot
    ightf
    ory
    out
    ohandl
    e
    MJ:
    brosf
    inegi
    rl
    sal
    sohav
    ebodyodour
    ooo...dontbef ooledbybi gny ashandbi gmi lk
    storagessomesmel l
    badbutwesol di
    eron
    causewhenOwohi supandhewant stoent er
    youev enl
    osey ourmi ndabi t
    ...
    .butthet r
    uthis
    vir
    ginsar eanonof ormef rom now
    on..
    ..hei.
    ..
    .thosecr eat
    ureswi l
    l t
    urny ouintoa
    twomi nutesnoddl esooot hent el
    ltheirfr
    iends
    abouthowweaky ouar e
    ***
    Sbulaughed.
    ..
    .he’
    sgladMJi
    sher
    e..
    .he
    admit
    tedtohimself*
    **
    MJ:Anywaylet
    sleavet
    hatone.
    ..
    ..t
    ell
    mey ou
    punchedt
    hatfoolt
    hatl
    efty
    outherealone
    *
    **Sbusi
    ghed*
    **
    Sbu:
    Ihav
    en’
    tseenhi
    m
    MJ:don’
    tworr
    yim her
    eandwewi l
    lshowhim
    hi
    smama. .
    .mxm f
    ool.
    ..
    .butl
    etmehealf
    ir
    st..
    ..
    i
    needt
    okickhi
    m onthenutswit
    hmygoodl eg
    **
    *Sbuchuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    sheadandt
    hey
    wentt
    othekit
    chen**
    *
    MJ:whereistheMamiwat
    aoft
    hehouse..
    .t
    he
    obodoibo.
    ..
    thefi
    nef
    inemamathatmybroda
    usedJujut
    ogetorel
    seshewouldn’
    tev
    enlook
    hi
    sway
    *
    **t
    heybot
    hlaughed*
    **
    MJ:i
    m ki
    ddi
    ng.
    ..
    .i
    tst
    ruel
    ove.
    ..
    .t
    heki
    ndofl
    oveI
    al
    sowant
    Sbu:y
    eahmetoo.
    ..
    any
    wayshewentshoppi
    ng
    wit
    htheki
    ds
    MJ:mmmmhshedeyf i
    nethatone.
    ..
    youwould
    swearshebat
    hesinmi
    l
    kfr
    om acowt hatwent
    topr
    ivat
    eschool
    *
    **Sbuj
    ustl
    aughed*
    **
    Sbu:
    you’
    recr
    azyman
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    olaugh*
    **

    _
    ___
    ***Moer aisatar est aurantenjoyi
    nghermeal
    whil
    er eadingherf avour i
    tenov el
    Mami wot
    a
    whensuddenl ysomeonest andsinfr
    ontof
    her.
    ..
    .Sheliftsherey est hi
    nkingit’
    sherwai
    tress
    andbor edom suddenl yengulfsherwhenshe
    seesthatit’sjustStev ens***
    St
    even:
    ifi
    tisn’
    tthemi
    ght
    yMoer
    aRapul
    a
    *
    **Moer
    arol
    l
    sherey
    es*
    **
    Moer
    a:gobot
    hersomeoneel
    seRGi
    m noti
    n
    t
    hemood
    ***
    Stevenschuckl
    edandhepul
    l
    edachai
    rand
    satdown***
    Moera:RGIdon’
    thav
    ethestr
    engthtobegoing
    backandfor
    thwit
    hyouassombli
    ef.
    ..
    .nott
    oday
    *
    **hesatbackandl
    ookedather
    ***
    Stev
    ens:i
    sitthef
    actt
    haty
    ou’
    ret
    rendi
    ngori
    ts
    somethi
    ngelse
    *
    **shef
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Moera:whatdoyoumeanbyme
    t
    rendi
    ng..
    ..
    tr
    endi
    ngwhere
    St
    evens:
    oohshedoesn’
    tknow.
    ..
    eish
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Stevens:wellapparent
    lyyouhaveacr ushon
    yourtwin’sman, t
    hesangomaandy ou’r
    eev en
    star
    tingtodev el
    ophatredforherorit
    salready
    ther
    e...
    .apparent
    lyyou’
    rejeal
    ousandy ouenv y
    her.
    ...
    it
    sal li
    nfor
    mat i
    onfrom asourcecloseto
    thefami l
    y
    Moer
    a:W.
    .what
    ..
    ..
    *
    **shesai
    dinawhi
    sperwi
    thherhear
    tbeat
    ing
    f
    ast
    Stevens:what’
    swi t
    ht hatShangaan’
    sd*ck
    causeitcan’tbehislooks..
    .imeanhe’sdark.
    ..
    i
    meant here’
    snothinghandsomeaboutadar k
    skinnednikka.
    ..
    .y
    ouneedt obefairi
    ncolourto
    beseenf
    rom af
    ary
    ousee
    ***StevenssaidasMoer awentonli
    neandshe
    foundt hatshe’
    sbeingtaggedbyherFacebook
    fol
    lower stoapostpostedbyaf amousgossip
    sit
    ewher eastor
    yiswritt
    enabouther..
    ..
    even
    notif
    icati
    onsfrom TweeterandInst
    agram
    fl
    oodsi nassheent er
    stheirapps***
    Moer
    a:oohmyGosh.
    ..
    no.
    ..
    no.
    ..
    no
    Stev
    ens:soisi
    ttr
    ue.
    ..
    .y
    oual
    sowantt
    hat
    Shangaanboy
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    St
    evens:
    yahneht
    hemut
    hihe’
    susi
    ngmustbe
    st
    rong
    ***shequickl
    ytookoutsomemoneyf rom her
    purseandputi tontopoft het abl
    eandshe
    stoodupgr abbingherbag, phoneandcarkey s
    andsher ushedoutleavi
    ngSt evensl
    aughing..
    ..
    Shehidherf aceassher ushedt otheparki
    ng
    l
    otandsheopenedhercarandgoti nfast.
    ..
    Shel ocksherdoor sandbr eathedout.
    ..
    .she
    tookherphoneandwentonl i
    neagainandy ep
    she’strendi
    ng..
    ..sher eadst hepostandt hepart
    thatgott oherthemosti swhent hewri
    tersaid
    she’salwaysbeenj ealousandenv i
    ousofher
    twinandt hatshe’sal way sbeent hebl
    ack
    sheepofherf ami ly.
    ..
    .thewr it
    erwentont owrite
    thatshe’sevendat ingmar r
    iedmenandshe
    washesherpunani withmut hi t
    omakemennot
    l
    eav eherandt oal way scomebackf ormor e.
    ..
    .
    shedeci destost opreadi ngandshegoest othe
    commentsect i
    onandt heyaregr i
    ll
    i
    ngherand
    call
    ingherallsortsofnames.

    Tearsfi
    ll
    sherey esasshecont inuetoreadthe
    comment s.
    ..
    .Somecomment scaughthereyes
    causetheypostedt hattheyalr
    eadyheardthe
    recor
    dingandtheycan’ tbeli
    eveshesaidallt
    hat
    withherownmout h..
    ..
    .Shedecidest
    o
    deact
    ivat
    eal lhersocialmediaaccountsand
    shesattherecrying.
    ..
    ..Af
    terhercryingsession
    shewipedhert earsandt r
    iedtothinkofwho
    wouldsellsuchst or
    ytothosev ul
    tures..
    ..
    ithad
    tobesomeonewho’ sgotnot hi
    ngt olose,
    someonecl osetoherenought or ecordher..
    ..

    Hermi ndwentt oAl phalettebutshedi smissed


    theideacauset hatwoul dmeanhewoul d
    deli
    ber at
    elyhur tMasai andhewon’ tdothat
    especiall
    ynowt hatshe’ sinhospi tal
    ..
    ..
    Hermi nd
    thenwentt oMpandeandshequi ckly
    dismissedt heideacauset oherhe’ saboring
    Zuluguywi t
    habaddr essingst yl
    eandhe
    doesn’tev enlookl i
    keheknowswhatagossi p
    pageis. .
    ..
    ormay beher ecor dedthewhol e
    hospitalscenebutshedi smi ssedtheideaagain
    causet hatwoul dmeanhur tingMasai andit
    l
    ooksl ikeheal socar esabouthersononot
    him...
    .shebi therlowerlipandcl osedherey es
    asherhear tbrokeint
    opi eces,herr eputat
    ionis
    ruined“shet hought”
    ..
    .Herey esqui ckl
    yopened
    wideandshet ookherphoneanddi all
    edher
    fri
    endSel i
    na’
    snumber sandt heyrang
    unanswer ed.
    ...
    shedroppedt hecal landdiall
    ed
    heragai nandi tsaidcall
    wai t
    ing...
    .shewai t
    eda
    bitt henshedr oppedthecallt r
    yingt ocalm
    her selfdown* **
    Moera:
    ooohl
    eti
    tnotbey
    ouSel
    i
    na.
    ..
    .l
    eti
    tnot
    beyou
    ***
    shesaidasherheartracedashermindwent
    tothedaytheyweredr
    inkingandshesaid
    somestuffsheshoul
    dn’thavetoher
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DETHERESTAURANT
    Sel
    i
    na:
    aishe’
    sbusycal
    l
    ingmenow
    St
    evens:Ihopey
    oucanhandl
    ehercauseshe’
    s
    cr
    azythatone
    Sel
    i
    na:
    wel
    li
    m notscar
    edofher
    St
    evens:
    mmmmhi
    fyousayso
    Sel
    i
    na:
    any
    wayhowwasherr
    eact
    ion
    St
    evens:
    shewasshockedobv
    iousl
    y
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nal
    aughed*
    **
    Seli
    na: i
    twasaboutti
    mesomeoneputheri n
    herplacemxm. .
    ..
    shealway
    st hi
    nksshe’
    sall
    thatkhantenopeshe’
    snot.
    ..
    .she’
    sjustaj
    ealous
    personwhot hi
    nkstheworl
    dowesher
    somet hi
    ngmxm
    *
    **St
    evenschuckl
    ed*
    **
    Stevens:andy
    ousoundli
    keajeal
    ousf
    ake
    fr
    iend..
    .oohmybad.
    ..
    .youar
    e
    Sel
    i
    na:
    what
    ever
    ..
    ..
    soshedi
    dn’
    tfai
    ntorf
    eel
    di
    zzyorsomet
    hing
    St
    evens:
    Itol
    dyoushej
    ustupandl
    eft
    Seli
    na:
    mxm oohwellaslongassheknowst
    hat
    she’
    strendi
    ngandhersecr
    eti
    souttheni
    m
    good
    Stev
    ens:
    youdoknowshe’
    sgonnaknowi
    tsy
    ou
    ri
    ght
    Sel
    i
    na:
    im notscar
    edofhermi
    na
    Stev
    ens:ok..
    ..
    justbereadycausey
    ouknowshe
    canberatchetifshewants
    Sel
    i
    na:
    thatmakest
    hebot
    hofusshame
    *
    **St
    evenschuckl
    ed*
    **
    St
    evens:
    alr
    ightr
    atchetgi
    rl
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nal
    aughed*
    **
    Sel
    i
    na:
    sowhenwi
    l
    lIseey
    ouagai
    n
    **
    *shesai
    dseduct
    ivel
    yandStev
    ensmadea
    di
    sgust
    edfaceandhegotannoyedi
    mmedi
    atel
    y
    *
    **
    Stevens:you’renotmyt ypeSelina..
    .evenyour
    namesay sitall
    ,i
    tsoundsl i
    kesomef i
    l
    thy
    womanf rom thestreetsofAl exandrawi t
    ha
    phuzaf aceandmi ssingf rontteeth.
    ..asforyour
    p*ssy..
    ..
    b* t
    chy ougav eittomef r
    eelythat’
    swhy
    Ididn’
    tdecl i
    neit.
    ..
    .
    Sel
    i
    na:
    aski
    es.
    ..
    whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    ..
    ..
    St
    evens:
    youar
    eexcused.
    ..
    nev
    ercal
    lmeagai
    n
    ***Het hendr oppedt hecal landbl ockedher
    number st henhedelet edthem cl i
    ckinghis
    tongue....Hismindwentt oMasai layingonthat
    hospital bedandhi shear tached. .
    ..Thatdayhe
    sawherl ay i
    ngther
    esomet hingmov edin
    him...
    .her eali
    zedthathest i
    lllovesherand
    may beev enmor e.
    ..
    .her eali
    zedt hathemadea
    mistakebyhur ti
    ngherl i
    ket hatandnowt hat
    he’srealizinghismist akeshe’ sgonnamake
    surehewi nsherback. .
    ..
    Thist i
    mehe’ sgonna
    tr
    eathergoodandmakeherhappyandev en
    havearelat
    ionshipwithhersoncauseevenif
    hehatestoadmi tit
    ,thatboyi
    shisnephew
    whetherheli
    kesitornot .
    ..
    .

    Heknowst heonl
    ypersonthatcanmakehim
    achi
    evewi nningMasaibackishert
    win
    Moera.
    ...
    Hedoesn’tknowasofy ethowhe’s
    gonnaplayt hi
    soutbutheknowshewillf
    inda
    way***
    Stevens:
    wherethere’
    sawil
    lthere’
    saway
    Stevens.
    ..
    .Masaii
    sgonnabey oursagainand
    thi
    st i
    mey ougonnabeabett
    ermanf orher
    **
    *henoddedst
    ari
    ngi
    ntospacet
    henhecal
    l
    ed
    await
    ress*
    **
    Wait
    ress:gooddaysi
    rwoul
    dyoul
    i
    ket
    oor
    der
    somethi
    ng
    Stevens:yessweet
    nessbutf
    ir
    stcl
    eart
    hisup
    thenbringmet hemenu
    Wai
    tr
    ess:
    ooohshel
    eft
    ..
    .
    ***
    shesaidseei
    ngthemoney..
    ..
    Shetookt
    he
    moneyandthedishesandshewalkedaway
    andStev
    enssighed**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATTHEBNB(
    LATERATNI
    GHT)

    ***
    Gazajustspokewi
    thAl
    phal
    ett
    eandnow
    he’
    scheckinguponTshi
    mobeforeshe
    sl
    eeps*
    **
    Gaza:y
    ousoundsdownwhat
    ’swr
    ong.
    ..
    *
    **Tshi
    mosi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    spr
    ingcl
    eani
    ngbutei
    sh.
    ..
    Gee
    Gaza:
    what
    ’swr
    ongmama
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingupwi
    thaf
    rownonhi
    sface*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:Ifoundoutt
    hatmyexthemarri
    edone
    wasgunneddownassassi
    nat
    ionst
    yleathi
    s
    home
    Gaza:
    oohi
    sit
    ?
    ***
    hesaidwithabor
    edt
    oneandhel
    aidback
    againonthebed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    bat
    hongGee
    Gaza:what..
    ..
    he’sanexthathurtyouand
    pl
    ayedwi t
    hy ourhear
    tsoIdon’tfeelsor
    ryf
    or
    hi
    m...
    lethi
    mr esti
    nhel
    l
    Tshi
    mo:
    whatabouthi
    swi
    feandki
    ds
    Gaza:t
    heyareal
    iv
    easwi tano..
    ..
    you’
    resur
    v i
    vi
    ng
    wit
    houtbot
    hparentsandsibl
    ingsatl
    eastthey
    haveamother
    Tshi
    mo:
    wow.
    ..
    justwow
    Gaza:
    okke..
    ..
    .shamecondol
    encestot
    hem
    mama...
    ti
    mehealssovatavakahle(theywi
    l
    l
    beok)
    Tshi
    mo:
    yhoy
    ahneh
    Gaza:
    ory ouwantmetodonatesomecasht
    o
    t
    hem? .
    ..
    icandothat
    ..
    ..
    idon’
    tmind
    Tshi
    mo:
    ont
    othenextt
    opi
    cassombl
    i
    ef
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Tshimo: oohyah..
    .heh.
    ..
    .wellapparent
    lythe
    newdoct oratthehospitali
    smi ssing.
    ..
    wellhi
    s
    famil
    yr epor
    tedhim missingandt hepoli
    ce
    camet owor ktoquesti
    ont hestaffaboutwhen
    theylastsawhim
    Gaza:
    isi
    t
    Tshimo: mmmmhImeanhe’ snewandforhi
    m
    todisappearfordayswit
    houtcont
    act
    ing
    anyoneandt aki
    nganythi
    ngwithhi
    m means
    he’
    sr eal
    lymissing
    Gaza:
    mmmmh
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    shamehi
    sfami
    l
    ymustbewor
    ri
    edandI
    hear
    dhi
    spat
    ient
    sar
    eal
    sowor
    ri
    edabouthi
    m
    Gaza:mmmmh..
    ..
    .i
    tsoundsl
    i
    key
    ou’
    rewor
    ri
    ed
    abouthi
    mtoo
    Tshimo:heseemedl ikeaniceguy..
    ..
    youcould
    tel
    lbyhisfl
    irt
    ati
    ousway sthathe’
    sapl ayerbut
    hewaski ndandfunt obearound..
    .imean
    almostallt
    heladiesatthehospit
    ali
    ncluding
    nurseswantedhim
    Gaza:
    arey
    oui
    ncl
    udedont
    hatal
    most
    Tshi
    mo:
    bat
    hong
    **
    *shegi
    ggl
    edandhecl
    enchedhi
    sjawscl
    osi
    ng
    hi
    seyesabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:
    wel
    lhebet
    terr
    emai
    nwher
    everhei
    sthen
    Tshi
    mo:
    that
    ’snotni
    ceGee
    Gaza:
    well
    im notani
    ceper
    soni
    ngener
    al.
    ..
    .i
    m
    j
    ustni
    ceandkindtot
    hosewhomat
    tert
    ome
    **
    *Shesighed.
    ..
    she’
    sexper
    ienci
    nganot
    hersi
    de
    ofGazaandshewasn’tsur
    eofhowt ohandl
    e
    i
    t..
    ..
    butshecan’tcompl
    aincauset
    echni
    cal
    l
    y
    shedoesn’tknowmuchabouthim orhi
    s
    personal
    i
    ty***
    Tshi
    mo:
    okMrnotsoni
    ceper
    son
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:don’
    tbeli
    ket
    hatmama..
    ..
    im amanandI
    can’
    tsympathi
    sewi
    thsomeonewho’s
    i
    nterest
    edinyou
    Tshimo:ummm whynot..
    ..
    don’tIdeser
    vesome
    acti
    onnyanainmyl
    ifebathong..
    ..
    ial
    sowantto
    getmarri
    edandhav
    ekidsgapei m notget
    ti
    ng
    anyyoungerGee
    Gaza:
    you’resti
    l
    lyoungmama..
    .marr
    iageand
    ki
    dswill
    findyounottheot
    herwayaround
    Tshi
    mo:
    youdon’
    tunder
    standGee
    Gaza:t
    rustmeIdoandI
    ’
    llmakesur
    eyouhav
    e
    al
    lthat
    Tshi
    mo:
    huh?
    Gaza:
    don’
    tworr
    yyou’
    llgeti
    toneday.
    ..anyway
    l
    etmecatchsomeshuteye.
    ..
    .wewil
    ltalk
    t
    omorrowmorni
    ngok
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    okgoodni
    ght
    Gaza:
    sleept
    ightmama
    Tshi
    mo:
    shap
    Gaza:
    shap
    ***
    theyendedthecall
    andGazasighed..
    ..
    hegot
    outofbed,puthi
    sphoneunderthepil
    lowand
    hegrabbedhiscarkeysandanot
    herphonethen
    heleft
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    **
    *Themangotoutofthecarandlockeditt
    he
    helookedar
    oundandi
    twasquiet
    ..
    ..
    hef i
    xedhis
    shi
    rt,cl
    ear
    edhisv oiceandhespokeaf ew
    wordstocheckifhisvoicechangedtooandyep
    i
    tchangedtoo..
    .hethent ookouthi
    sphoneand
    madeacall**
    *
    Mar
    ina:
    hel
    l
    o
    Man:
    heyi
    tsmeMdu.
    ..
    .i
    shegone
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Mar
    ina:
    who’
    sphonear
    eyouusi
    ng
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Man:anewoneanerexeghor
    axawena(y
    our
    bi
    gbull
    y)st
    eppedonmyphone
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mar
    ina:
    ummm okl
    etmeopenf
    ory
    ou
    ***sheopenedforhi
    m andhewalkedi
    nthenhe
    knockedont hedoorandMari
    naopenedand
    therest
    oodMduandshemov edsoheenter
    s
    ***
    Mar
    ina:
    Wher
    eisMi
    kat
    eko
    Mdu:who?
    ?..
    .ummm ei
    shmxm t
    hisst
    ressi
    s
    gonnabet
    hedeathofme
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Mdu:
    she’
    swi
    thMa
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandwentt
    osi
    tdown*
    **
    Mar
    ina:
    hemademeputhi
    m onl
    oudspeaker
    whi
    l
    eIwastal
    ki
    ngt
    oma
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    nputti
    ngherhandsonher
    f
    acefeel
    i
    ngemot i
    onal
    ***
    Marina:
    he’
    sal
    i
    veandhe’sreal
    l
    yhere.
    ..
    .idon’
    t
    knowhowtohandl
    ethatandhalahe’
    ssayingI
    haveamontht
    oleavethi
    shouse
    Mdu:
    andIt
    hinky
    oushoul
    d
    ***
    sherai
    sedherheadandlookedathi
    m wi
    tha
    fr
    ownandheclearedhi
    sthroatandsi
    ghedt
    hen
    hesatdownnexttoher
    ***
    Mdu: thi
    nkaboutit.
    ..
    .i
    tlookslikehehasbeen
    keepingtabsonus...
    .heknowswear etogether
    andhemaybebackf orrevenge..
    ..
    maybehe’s
    giv
    ingy ouawayoutcausey oubor ehi
    m amal e
    chil
    dsoIt hinkyoushouldgetoutwhi l
    esti
    llin
    onepeace. .
    .i
    fyoucantdoi tforusthendoitfor
    your.
    ...
    ummm ourdaught er
    Mari
    na:
    Idon’tmeant
    oof f
    endyoubutist
    il
    ll
    ove
    hi
    m Mdu..
    .he’
    smyhusbandthefat
    herofmy
    chi
    ld
    ***
    Mduclenchedhi
    sjawsbutt
    hehebr
    eat
    hed
    outcal
    minghimsel
    f**
    *
    Mdu: andhealmostki l
    ledusandt hist
    ime
    aroundhemi ghtsucceed. .
    ..
    ifit’
    shi smoney
    you’r
    ewor r
    iedaboutdon’ twor ry.
    ...
    youguysare
    mar r
    iedincommuni tyofpr opertysoy ouwon’t
    l
    eav eemptyhanded...y
    ou’llleavewi thhal
    foff
    hiswealthandwewi llstartlif
    esomewher ef
    ar
    andlivehappil
    y.
    ..
    .t
    hinkabouti tplease
    ***shelookedawayav oidi
    nghisey esbecause
    hedoesn’ tknowt het r
    ut h.
    ..
    notevenhermot her
    knowst heyar emarriedoutofcommuni tyof
    property..
    ..nowsher egretsitbi
    gt i
    mebutt hat
    ti
    meshewassoi nlovewi thhimt hatshe
    want edt oprov eherloy alt
    yanddedi cat
    ionto
    him....
    howst upidofher“shet hought”***
    Mdu:mov eoutpleasedon’
    tprovokehim..
    ..
    .a
    manscor nedlikehedidisdangerous.
    ...
    enough
    aboutallthat
    ..
    ..nowletmemakey ouf
    eel
    good..
    ..
    letmedecr easeyourst
    resslevel
    s
    *
    **hesai
    dbr
    ushi
    ngherbar
    ethi
    ckt
    high*
    **
    Mar
    ina:
    nowi
    tsnotagoodt
    imeMdu
    Mdu:i
    tis.
    ..
    wear
    ebot
    hstr
    essedMar
    ina.
    ..
    ..
    let
    ’s
    of
    fl
    oadsowecanthi
    nkcl
    ear
    ly
    ***hesai
    dbringinghisf
    aceclosert
    ohersand
    shewaitedforthekissonherli
    psbutnopeit
    didn’
    tcomeinsteadhewentt oherneckand
    ki
    sseditinst
    ead...
    shemoanedandhest opped
    thenhegotupandpul l
    edherupasshelooked
    athim confusedandhepul
    ledhert
    othe
    bedroom...
    .

    #MDAVAZO (
    INTHECOMMENTSECTI
    ON)
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    (
    IT’
    SALONGCHAPTER…ENJOY!
    !!
    )

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER26
    .
    .
    .

    AROUND3I
    NTHEMORNI
    NG

    ***“Mdu”sl ammedi ntoMar i


    na’sb* t
    thol
    eand
    hestill
    edinherf i
    l
    li
    ngi tupwi thhiss* menand
    hepul l
    edoutandhi sd* ckwascov eredi
    n
    bloodandMar inacollapsedont hebedandshe
    passedout ..
    ..Mduthenwentt ot hebathroom
    andhewashedhi sd* ckagai ninthebasinand
    hewi peditandhewentbackt ot hebedroom
    andwor ehisboxersandt rackpant sthathe
    tookof faft
    erthei
    r4thr oundandhel ookedat
    Mar i
    naandhecl i
    ckedhi stongue, hewalkedout
    ofthebedr oom sati
    sfied.Hewal kedoutoft he
    houseandhecl osedthedoorthenhelocked
    thesecur
    ityburgl
    ardoorandwentov erandhe
    j
    umpedov erthewallandhegoti nsi
    dethecar
    andstart
    editthenhedroveoff***
    .
    .
    AROUND9I
    NTHEMORNI
    NG

    ***Mar i
    naopenedherey esslowlyassheheard
    aloudknockont hedoor..
    .shecl
    osedthem and
    openedt hem againastheknockwentonand
    l
    ouder...
    .Theknockstoppedandherphoner ang,
    shetri
    edt oreachforherphonebutshef el
    t
    painpiercefr
    om herb*ttholest
    rai
    ghtt
    oher
    heartandshescr eamed* *
    *
    Mdu:Mar
    ina.
    ..
    .Mar
    inaopent
    hedoor
    ..
    ..
    ishei
    n
    t
    herewi
    thyou.
    .
    *
    **Hesai
    dpani
    cki
    ngandhemov
    edt
    hedoor
    handleandt
    hedooropenedandhepeaked
    i
    nside***
    Mdu:
    Mar
    ina!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dshaki
    ngt
    hesecur
    it
    ybur
    glardoor
    ***
    Mdu:im cal
    l
    ingthepol
    i
    ce...
    answerme
    babe.
    ..
    .whatsgoi
    ngon..
    ..
    Marina!
    !!
    ***Mar i
    nadr aggedher selfoffthebedwi t
    hher
    teethclenchedt ogetherast earsr andownher
    cheeks...
    .shepul ledthewhi t
    ebl oodiedsheet
    andshesl owlywr appedi tar
    oundhernaked
    bodyandshesl owlywal kedoutoft hebedroom
    balancingher selfwit
    ht hewal l
    ..
    ...
    shef el
    tweak
    andpai nal l
    ov erherbodyandhert hroathurtso
    bad...
    ..WhenMdusawherhi sey espopped
    out***
    Mdu:is.
    ..
    .i
    sthatbl
    ood..
    .whathappenedt
    o
    you.
    ..
    whodi dt
    hist
    oy ou
    **
    *Heaskedwit
    hafadingvoi
    ce.
    ..
    .somebl
    ood
    wasdr
    ippi
    ngonthef
    looral
    ongwithsome
    s*
    men*
    **
    Mar
    ina:
    why
    ..
    .whydoy
    ouseem sur
    pri
    sed
    *
    **sheaskedwit
    hherf
    acefi
    ll
    edwit
    hdr
    ied
    t
    ears.
    ..
    dri
    edsnor
    tandwett
    ears*
    **
    Mdu:whatdoy oumean..
    ..
    what
    happened.
    ..
    .don’
    ttel
    lmehedidt
    hist
    oyou
    ***
    hesai dwit
    hhiseyespoppedoutandhi
    s
    heartbeati
    ngfast
    ***
    Marina:whyMdu...
    .howcanyoubr
    eakmel i
    ke
    thi
    s..
    ..
    iknow.
    ..
    .iknowwearebothstr
    essedby
    hisret
    urnbutwhatdidIdotoyout
    odeserve
    thi
    s
    *
    **Mduf
    rowned*
    **
    Mdu: whatareyoutal
    ki
    ngabout.
    ...
    Mari
    na
    what’
    sgoingon...
    whyareyoutal
    kingli
    ke
    thi
    s..
    ..
    .y
    ouknowwhatI m cal
    li
    nganambulance
    wewi l
    ldealwit
    hthepoli
    celat
    erfornowim
    cal
    li
    nganambul ance
    ***
    Hesai dunlockinghisphonewi t
    hhisshaky
    handsandMar inadidn’
    tsayany thi
    ngshej ust
    cri
    edahear tpiecingcryandshesl iddownt he
    wallandassoonasherbut ttouchedthef l
    oor
    shescreamedj umpi ngandsheknel tont he
    fl
    oorinsteadasf reshbloodst ai
    nedthewhi t
    e
    sheet.
    ..
    .shelai
    dont hefloorwithherstomach
    andshej ustcr
    iedpai nf
    ul l
    y**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATTHEBNB

    ***
    Gazawokeuptohi
    sphoneri
    ngi
    ngandhe
    answer
    edwit
    houtl
    ooki
    ngatt
    hescreen*
    **
    Gaza:
    yeah
    Al
    pha:
    yousoundasl
    eep
    Gaza:
    Ihadani
    ght
    mar
    eandIf
    ail
    edt
    ofi
    nd
    sl
    eepagai
    nunt
    ili
    ntheear
    lymor
    ning
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whatwast
    heni
    ght
    mar
    eabout
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedr
    ubbi
    nghi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Gaza:
    thedayIwasabducted..
    ..
    lookIdon’
    t
    wannatal
    kabouti
    t.
    ..
    justt
    ell
    mey ou’
    reonyour
    wayhere
    **
    *Alphal
    ett
    esi
    ghed.
    ..
    hecoul
    dtellGazawas
    hi
    dingsomethi
    ngfr
    om hi
    m andthatsomethi
    ng
    i
    sbig***
    Alpha:
    Geeyoudoknowy
    oucant
    alkt
    ome
    aboutany
    thi
    ng
    Gaza:IknowNtsako..
    ..
    beli
    evemeIknowit
    ’s
    j
    ust..
    ..
    someofthethingsIwentthr
    oughi
    m not
    readytotal
    kaboutthem asofyet
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:asl
    ongasyouknowim her
    efor
    you..
    ..
    Anywayi
    m aboutt
    oleav
    enow
    Gaza:
    how’
    sMasai
    ..
    ..
    issheoutoft
    hehospi
    tal
    Al
    pha:
    she’
    sbet
    terand.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:sheknowsaboutMoer a..
    .someone
    l
    eakedar ecordi
    ngofherconfessingsh*tabout
    Masaiandt heyarebotht
    rendingonsocial
    media.
    ..
    most lyMoera
    Gaza: haithi
    sMoer agirli
    sjust.
    ...
    .ai .
    ..
    .nowIj ust
    real
    izedthatshe’ snotwor thit
    ..
    ..shehasst arted
    destroyi
    ngher selfandherr eputation,Ijustfeel
    sorryforMasai ..
    ..shedoesn’tdeser vet hi
    s...
    i
    hopeshe’ staki ngall t
    hiswell.
    ..
    .butnev er
    underestimat eMoer a..
    ..
    gir
    lsli
    keherdon’ tfal
    l
    from graceforal ongt i
    me....
    shemi ghthavean
    aceuphersl eev es..
    .sheknowsdanger ous
    peoplesobecar eful
    Alpha:y
    ousoundl
    i
    key
    ouknowofhermor
    e
    thanIdo
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thacur
    ioust
    one*
    **
    Gaza:
    sheal
    mostki
    l
    ledmysist
    eri
    nlawsoIhad
    t
    odosomediggi
    ngonher
    ..
    ..
    Alpha:whatdiggi
    ng.
    ...
    dudeyoujustregai
    ned
    yourmemor yandalreadyyou’
    rediggi
    ngon
    people’
    spasts..
    ..
    what’
    sgoingonGee
    Gaza:Iwasbored.
    ..
    ..
    lookshe’
    smor
    ethana
    pr
    ettyfaceandguesswhat..
    ..
    ***Alphasighed..
    ..
    thi
    swasn’thisbrother.
    ..
    ..
    he
    neededanewappr oachoftr
    yingtofigurehim
    outcausehe’ sacti
    ngwei r
    dandsecr eti
    veand
    thatdoesn’tsitwellwit
    hhim..
    .ontopofal lt
    hat
    hisancestorsarenotsay i
    nganythi
    ng. .
    ..
    theyare
    quietwheni tcomest ohim***
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ..
    .
    Gaza:
    herdeadf
    iancéi
    sact
    ual
    l
    yal
    i
    ve
    Al
    pha:
    wai
    twhat
    ..
    ..
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    yeah.
    ..
    hef
    akedhi
    sowndeat
    h
    Al
    pha:
    damn.
    ..
    .whyt
    hehel
    lwoul
    dhedot
    hat
    ..
    ..
    Gaza:i
    m st
    il
    lwai
    ti
    ngf
    orthati
    nfo.
    ..
    .myboy
    Beasti
    stheonewhogotmethisi
    nfo
    Alpha:
    your
    eachedoutt
    oyourol
    dsol
    dier
    buddy
    *
    **Heaskedsur
    pri
    sedandGazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:yeahHeathist
    heonethatgotmehi
    s
    di
    git
    s..
    ..appar
    entl
    yBi
    gRayismarri
    edtohi
    s
    babysi
    s. .
    ..
    small
    worl
    dri
    ght
    ...
    .
    Alpha:
    wowok. .
    ..
    sohe’
    saKhumalo?
    ??i
    sn’
    thi
    s
    Afri
    cannameandsurnameGhanani
    anor
    something.
    ..
    .
    Gaza:
    that
    ’sast
    oryf
    oranot
    herday
    Al
    pha:
    soy
    ou’
    regoi
    ngbackt
    oyourol
    dli
    fenow
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thawor
    ri
    edt
    one*
    **
    Gaza:It
    ri
    edt ochanget obeabettermanf ora
    woman...
    im neverdoingitagai
    ncauseIwas
    pl
    ayedforaf ool
    ..
    ..
    .t
    henextwomani m gonna
    bewithbet
    terbereadyt
    oacceptmet
    hewayI
    am orjymoetvoet
    sek
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whati
    fthatwomani
    sTshi
    mo
    Gaza:t
    henI’l
    lpr
    otectherf
    rom af
    ar.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llkeep
    mydistance
    Al
    pha:
    shemeanst
    hatmucht
    oyou
    Gaza:l
    et’
    sjustsayherpr
    esencei
    nmyl i
    fesi
    nce
    Imethernomat terhowcl
    osesheist
    ome
    tamesthemonst eri
    nme
    *
    **Al
    phadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Gaza:anywaydri
    vesafel
    y.
    ..
    letmecheckupon
    herthensl
    eepforabit
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:don’thur
    therman.
    ..
    .t
    her
    e’ssomet
    hing
    specialabouther
    Gaza:
    youhav
    enobusi
    nessbei
    ngconcer
    ned
    aboutherl
    i
    kethi
    sNtsako.
    ..
    .y
    oudon’
    tev
    en
    knowherli
    ket
    hat.
    ..
    awutwineh
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngpi
    ssed*
    **
    Al
    pha:calmy ourti
    tsGaza..
    ..
    itol
    dyouIdon’
    t
    wanther
    ..
    .ourspir
    it
    sjustconnected
    Gaza:
    letyourspi
    ri
    tconnectwi
    thMasai
    ’
    snot
    wit
    hTshimo’s.
    ..
    .
    Al
    pha:
    hebanna.
    ..
    Gee
    Gaza: don’tGeeme. .
    ...
    Tshimoisoff
    l
    imi t
    s...
    .she’
    smi neandmi nealone.
    ...
    idontwant
    nomansay i
    ngsh* tl
    ikethatabouthercauseit
    pissedmeof f.
    ..
    .youdon’thearmesay ingsh*t
    l
    iket hataboutMasai sostop pissingmeof fby
    sayingsh* tl
    ikethataboutTshimo
    Al
    pha:
    Gazawhat
    ’sgoi
    ngonwi
    thy
    ou
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    tanswerhi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    sincewhenareyout
    hisobsessedabout
    awomany ou’
    renotev
    endat
    ing
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    tanswerhi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Gee
    Gaza:justst
    opsay
    ingt
    hingsl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Ntsako..
    .pl
    ease
    Alpha:okI’
    l
    l st
    opbutsoy ouknow. ..
    .whatIfeel
    i
    smor eofasi ster
    lyconnecti
    on..
    .youknowMa
    anddadnev ergottogetheraft
    ertheincidentso
    whatifbabametsomeone. .
    ..
    yougetwher ei
    m
    goingwiththis
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza: Ididabackgroundcheckonhert ooand
    hermot hercauseshedoesn’tknowherf at
    her
    andt here’
    snoconnectionbetweenhermot her
    andy ourfather
    ..
    ..
    .Hermotherdidmeetaman
    from Limpopobyt henameofI saac
    Shikwambanaandhecoul dbeherf at
    herso
    refr
    ainf r
    om whateverfeel
    i
    ngsy ouhave
    towar dsher
    Al
    pha:
    Shi
    kwambana?
    ??
    Gaza:
    yeah
    Al
    pha:
    wher
    edi
    dIheart
    hatsur
    name
    *
    **heaskedhi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Gaza:l
    ook..
    ..Isai
    dmypi eceorel
    seI’
    l
    lal
    sol
    et
    myspiri
    tconnectwithMasai’
    sandlet
    sseei
    f
    you’
    ll
    havepeacefulnight
    s
    ***
    Alphachucklednotbel
    i
    ev i
    ngwhathe’
    s
    heari
    ngbutthatsurnamestayedi
    nhishead*
    **
    Gaza:
    any
    waywhatt
    imewi
    l
    lyouar
    ri
    ve
    ***
    Alphalett
    esighed..
    .hecanfeelthat
    somethingbigisoffwi t
    hGaza..
    ..
    thisi
    snotthe
    Gazaheknowsbef orehewas
    abducted..
    ..
    somethingisoffandhe’smore
    worri
    ednow* **
    Al
    pha:
    im notsurewi
    tht
    het
    raf
    fi
    c..
    ..
    I’
    l
    lcal
    lyou
    wheni
    m nearer
    Gaza:
    okl
    etmecal
    lTshi
    mo.
    ..
    I’
    l
    lwai
    tfory
    our
    cal
    l
    Al
    pha:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    yeah
    Alpha:don’tgi
    vei ntowhat everischangingyou
    tobethisimpul si
    veandobsessedper son...
    .i
    knowy ouhav eanotsoki ndot hersi
    deofy ou
    butthi
    sist oomuchbhut .
    ...
    what everi
    tisdon’t
    l
    etitcontrolyou..
    .don’
    tletTshi moandNy i
    ko
    meetthishear t
    lesssideofy oucauset hey
    mighttaket hi
    ngst oheartunlikeme
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedbr
    ushi
    nghi
    sface*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    imj
    ustsay
    ing
    ***
    Gazakeptqui
    etf
    orabi
    tandhesi
    ghed
    again*
    **
    Gaza:
    im sor
    rybhut
    i.
    ..
    ij
    ust
    ..
    ..
    she’
    smi
    neand.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghedf
    eel
    i
    ngl
    i
    kesh*
    t**
    *
    Gaza:she’
    smaki ngmel osemymind...
    ..
    even
    nowthatim notnearherIfeell
    i
    keim not
    funct
    ioni
    ngwell.
    ..Iknowy ouwon’
    tbetr
    ayme
    i
    t’
    sjustt
    hatIcan’
    thel
    pit
    ..
    ..
    Alpha:
    that’
    scal
    ledobsessi
    onandi
    ts
    dangerousGee
    Gaza:
    Iwantherandonl
    yher
    ..
    ..
    ican’
    thel
    pit
    Al
    pha:
    thebi
    gquest
    ioni
    sdoy
    oul
    oveher
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:Icar
    eal otforher
    ..
    ...
    iwantt
    oalways
    prot
    ecther.
    ..
    .iwanthertobehappyalwaysand
    Iwanttogivehereveryt
    hingshedesi
    res
    Alpha:t
    hati
    syoul
    ovi
    nghermanbutthe
    obsessi
    onneedst
    ogoman..
    .i
    t’
    sact
    uall
    yat
    urn
    offGee
    Gaza:
    thenwhatdi
    dIf
    eel
    forMar
    inat
    hen
    Al
    pha:
    youal
    sol
    ovedorst
    il
    ll
    oveher
    Gaza:wel
    lIguessnotenoughtoki
    llf
    orher
    ..
    .i
    guessshewasn’twor
    thitbutTshi
    mo...
    *
    **sh*
    t“het
    houghtt
    ohi
    msel
    f”
    Al
    pha:
    wai
    twhat
    ..
    ..
    **
    *heaskedshockedandGazacursedint
    ernal
    l
    y
    ofthi
    sst
    upidmistakehej
    ustmade***
    Gaza:
    Imeant
    ..
    .
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:youknowwhatl
    et’
    stal
    kwheny
    ouget
    her
    e..
    .shap
    Al
    pha:wai
    t.
    ..
    .whatdi
    dyoudoGazankul
    u
    Mabunda.
    ..
    ***Gazadroppedt hecal
    landheputhisphone
    onMut eandhesi ghedlooki
    ngupinthe
    ceil
    ing.
    ..
    Hepi ckedhisphoneagai
    nandwaited
    forAlphal
    ette’si
    ncomingcallt
    oendthenhe
    unlockedhisphoneandcal l
    edTshimo**
    *

    _
    __
    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL(
    MASAI
    )

    ***I
    m si tt
    ingher est aringintospacet hinkingof
    wher eev eryt
    hinggotmessedup. .
    .Iwonder
    whendi dMoer ast ar t
    edhat i
    ngonme. .
    ..i
    m
    askingmy selfi
    fshe’ sbeenpr etendingt ocar e
    formesi ncewewer eki dsori tallstart
    ed
    now. ..
    .di
    dAl phalette’spr esencei nmyl i
    fe
    tri
    ggersomet hinginherorshe’ salwaysbeen
    l
    iket his.
    ..
    .huuuh( sigh) ..
    ..Im mor ehear tbroken
    thanangr yr
    ightnow, Idon’tev enknowhowI
    willfaceherf r
    om nowonaf terIhear dhowshe
    reall
    yf eelsaboutme. .
    ..Imeanshewasr ooting
    formeandAl phat obet ogether,wasal lthata
    l
    ie..
    .whywoul dshewast eherener gyliket hat
    onlyf orhertof all
    forhi m( si
    gh) ..
    .iwonderwho
    l
    eakedt hatrecording, may beit’soneofher
    fri
    endst hat’swhyIdon’ thavef riends..
    ..
    Im gladPhaletterushedher eaf terhef oundout
    abouttheleakedr ecordingandt het alkhegav e
    mehel pedabi tev enthoughi tcoul dn’tun-break
    myhear torundot hewhol ething...
    .Im gl adhe’s
    i
    nmyl i
    fecausey ho...
    ifhewasn’ twhoknows
    howIwoul d’vehandl et hiswhol et hing..
    ..
    Asf or
    Ma. .
    ..
    she’
    snotcopi ngatal l
    ,shegother eand
    foundmeandAl phaandy oucoul dseet he
    rel
    iefonherf ace....
    Iknowshel ovesMoer aand
    IandIalsoknowshedoesn’ tknowhowt o
    handlehewhol et hing...
    .

    IfyouseeDorisRapul a-Smi thnotlookingall


    glam andbeauti
    ful knowt hatshe’snotcopi ng
    atallbuti
    m gl
    adausVeei st hereandshe’ s
    helpi
    ngwithKhai unt i
    l Phalett
    ecomes
    back..
    ..
    Yepheleftt ohel phi sbrot
    her..
    ..shameI
    feelf
    orhim,he’sst ressedabouthi sbr otherand
    he’sbeenhereformesi nceday1andnowi ts
    thist
    rendi
    ngrecor ding( si
    gh) .
    ..
    .i
    m surehe’ s
    regr
    ett
    ingdat
    ingmenow(si
    gh).
    ..
    Imagi
    nehim
    experi
    enci
    ngsomuchdramainmylif
    einsuch
    ashortper
    iodoft
    imeofusdat
    ing(si
    gh)*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    str
    essi
    snotgoodf
    ory
    ouMasa
    *
    **Itur
    nedandSt ev
    ensi
    sstandi
    ng
    t
    here..
    ..
    .goodLor
    dwhy..
    .*
    **
    St
    evens:
    Ihadt
    ocomeandseei
    fyou’
    real
    ri
    ght
    Me:
    youdi
    dn’
    thav
    eto
    *
    **hewal
    kedi
    n**
    *
    Me:
    stop.
    ..
    stopr
    ightt
    her
    e
    ***
    hest
    opped.
    ..
    good.
    ..
    ..causeIdon’
    twanthi
    m
    nearme**
    *
    Me:
    Idon’
    twantt
    oseev
    isi
    tor
    s
    ***
    Isaidhol
    dingtheemer gencyr
    emote
    showinghimthatim abouttocal
    lanur
    sei
    n
    hereandIseehim si
    ghing* *
    *
    St
    evens:
    lookImeannohar
    m..
    ..
    ij
    ustwant
    edt
    o
    makesur
    eyou’
    reokt
    hat
    ’sal
    l
    Me:
    why
    *
    **hekeepsqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    St
    evens:
    causeIst
    il
    ll
    ovey
    ouMasai
    ..
    .
    *
    **If
    oundmy
    sel
    flaughi
    ng*
    **
    Stev
    ens:
    Iknowitsoundli
    keali
    ebecauseof
    howIhurty
    oubutit
    ’sthet
    rut
    h
    Me:
    justl
    eav
    eSt
    evens.
    ..
    St
    evens:
    Ireal
    l
    ydo
    Me:noy oudon’t.
    ..
    youthinkyoudobecausey ou
    seehowgoody ourbrot
    heristome...
    .because
    youseey ourbrot
    herisdoingwhatyouf ai
    ledto
    do.
    ..
    ..
    it’
    snotloveStevensitsregr
    etsogodeal
    wit
    hy ourregr
    etssomewher eelsenothereor
    anywhereclosetome. .
    .pl
    ease
    ***helookeddownwi t
    hasad
    face..
    .mxm...
    .sat
    an.
    ..
    .ipressedtheemergency
    buttonandturnedandf acedtheotherway***
    Stevens:I
    ’l
    lpr
    ovetoyouthati
    m genuine..
    ..
    i
    knowImessedupandI ’
    l
    learnyout r
    ust
    agai
    n...
    .I
    ’
    lldobet
    terandI’
    llbebetter
    ..
    ..
    ourlov
    e
    stor
    yisnotoverMasai.
    ..
    thisi
    sjustthe
    begi
    nning
    Me: y
    homot howaModi mol eave.
    ..
    .i
    m going
    thr
    oughast ressfulper
    iodinmyl i
    fesoIdon’t
    needy ourstresstooStevens..
    ..
    idon’twantto
    bedeal i
    ngwi thyourcr
    aziness..
    ..
    stayawayfrom
    meorI ’l
    lgetar est
    rai
    ningorderagainyou!!
    **
    *Isai
    dallt
    hatt
    urni
    ngtofacehi
    m...
    khante
    whereist
    hedamnnursenx..
    ..
    oohheresheis
    mxm* *
    *
    Me:heneedst
    oleav
    eandpl
    easedon’
    tal
    l
    ow
    hi
    minhereagai
    n
    *
    **t
    henur
    sef
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Nurse:
    aren’
    tyoutheguyt
    hathermanki
    cked
    outofherewhenshewasinacoma
    *
    **wai
    twhat
    ?..
    ..
    IseeSt
    evenssi
    ghi
    ngandhe
    wal
    ksout
    ***
    Nurse:howdidhegether
    e..
    ..
    MissRapulaim
    sorry
    ..
    .idon’
    tknowhowhegotinhere.
    ..
    .I
    ’l
    ltal
    k
    totheMat r
    onandwewill
    gettothebott
    om of
    thi
    s
    *
    **huuhi
    mfeel
    i
    ngov
    erwhel
    medr
    ightnow*
    **
    Nurse:i
    m sor
    ryagainMissRapula.
    ..
    .iwasbusy
    wit
    ht heot
    herpati
    entsoIdidn’
    tseehim come
    i
    nIwoul d’
    vecal
    ledsecur
    it
    yonhi mli
    keIwas
    t
    oldto
    Me:it
    soknursedon’
    tworr
    yaboutit
    ..
    ..
    justmake
    sur
    ehenevercomesinhereagai
    n
    Nurse:
    wewillmakesur
    e..
    .i
    m sor
    ryagai
    n..
    ..
    do
    youneedany
    thing
    *
    **Ij
    ustshookmyheadno*
    **
    Nurse:l
    etmegot alktot
    hematr
    onandshe’ll
    dealwiththi
    sandmakesurei
    tneverhappens
    again.
    ..
    im sor
    ryagai
    n
    *
    **shewal
    kedout
    ***
    Me:Godpleasegivemet hestr
    engthtodeal
    wit
    hallt
    hese..
    ..
    infactpl
    easetakecontr
    ol and
    dealwi
    thall
    thesef ormecausemedeal i
    ng
    wit
    hitmyselfwil
    lputastrai
    nonmyheal th..
    ..
    so
    pl
    easetakecontrolModi
    mowaka. .
    .pl
    ease
    ***
    Iquicklywipedmyt earsasthedooropened
    andMawal kedinlooki
    ngal l
    glamorouswith
    hermakeuponf leek.
    ..
    .she’
    sev enwear
    ingher
    expensiv
    er edbottoms...
    .okmamawhat ’sgoi
    ng
    on***
    Me:
    wowy
    oul
    ook.
    ..
    .good
    Ma:Iguessal
    lIneededwasagoodd*
    ckf
    rom
    myoldflame.
    ..
    .
    Me:
    Ma!
    !!
    ***Idon’
    tli
    kei
    twhenshet al
    ksaboutd*cksand
    s*xpositi
    ons.
    ..
    .i
    tsjustwrong,she’
    sourmother
    forheaven’
    ssake...
    .idon’
    tneedtohearabout
    howshewas. .
    ..aaaarg***
    Ma:keng(what )
    ..
    ..
    iwasreachingmybr eaking
    poi
    ntwi ththi
    sleakedrecor
    ding...
    butdon’t
    worrymyl awyersandPIwillgettothebottom
    ofal
    l t
    his..
    ..
    .whomev erl
    eakedt hatr
    ecording
    wil
    lpaydear l
    y.
    ..
    thelawsuitthatiswaiti
    ngf or
    her
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Ma:imjustwai
    ti
    ngf
    orMoeratogetbacktome
    soshetel
    lsmewhothatb*
    tchi
    s..
    ..
    .Anyway
    howareyoumybaby
    *
    **Ij
    ustshr
    uggedmyshoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Ma:all
    owy oursel
    ftofeelbetr
    ayedandhurtso
    youcanstartheal
    ingmybaby ..
    ..Idon’
    tthi
    nk
    Moerawai t
    irawaitsi
    ..
    .(idon’
    tthinkMoerais
    doi
    ngallt
    heset hi
    ngsintenti
    onall
    y)
    Me:
    howcany
    ousayt
    hatmama
    *
    **shel
    ookedaway
    ***
    Ma:
    looki
    m notdi
    sput
    ingwhatshedi
    dtoy
    ou
    butshecan’tj
    ustt urni
    ntothi
    shorr
    ibl
    eperson
    j
    ustli
    kethat..
    ..whygot oallt
    hetr
    oubleof
    prot
    ecti
    ngyouandbei ngther
    eforyouonl
    yfor
    hertochangej ustli
    kethat
    *
    **wow*
    **
    Ma:Idon’twantyoutwot ohateeachot her
    Masai.
    ..
    .y
    ouar ebothmybabi es..
    .il
    oveyouso
    much..
    ..
    idon’twanttodisappointorfai
    lyour
    l
    atemother..
    ..
    iswearI’
    l
    lfixthi
    s
    Me: youcantfixmybr okenheartma..
    ..
    andyou
    cantundowhatshedi dt omeandsai dabout
    me. .
    ..
    .l
    efokogal eboemamagobowa
    monwanasoev enifthewhol escandal
    disappearsitwon’tchanget hefactt
    hatit
    happenedandt hatI’l
    lnev erl
    ookatherthe
    sameway
    *
    **t
    ear
    srandownmycheeksandshet
    ri
    edt
    o
    t
    ouchmebutImov
    edmyhand* *
    *
    Me:
    shecameher
    eandshewasn’
    tawar
    ethatI
    wasawakefrom coma. .
    ..
    thethi
    ngsshesaidt
    o
    memama. .
    ..
    shedidn’tsoundremorsef
    ult
    o
    whatshedi
    dt ome...
    .shesaidwhenIwakeupI
    shoul
    dn’
    tpl
    ayv i
    cti
    m and...
    .
    *
    **It
    ri
    edtoswal
    l
    owedal
    umpt
    hat
    ’sst
    uckon
    mythroat
    ***
    Me: .
    ..
    shesaidawhol elot.
    ..
    .Shewasn’tsor r
    y
    thatIal mostdied.
    ...shesoundedbi tt
    erand
    hear t
    lesstowardsmeandal l
    forwhat...
    a
    man. ..
    jeal
    ousyandenv y..
    ..
    idon’tevenknow
    whatsheenv i
    esf rom meorwhatshe’ sjealous
    aboutcausei m alway ssick..
    ..
    ihaveabor ing
    l
    ife...
    mostoft hetimei m depressed...
    .Ican’
    t
    believeshe’stalki
    ngaboutmeget t
    ingallthe
    attention.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Ij
    ustchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Me:doesshethi
    nkIenjoyget
    ti
    ngsy mpathy
    fr
    om peopl
    eallt
    hedamnt i
    me...
    .doesshethi
    nk
    Ienj
    oygett
    ingpett
    ylookswhenIwalkli
    kea
    robotcauseal lmyj oint
    sar epainf ul
    ..
    ..
    ienj
    oy
    notbeingablet ogetoutofbedcauseIcan’ t
    mov emybody ..
    ..
    thatmostoft het imeIcan’tdo
    thi
    ngsf ormy self
    ...
    ..
    iforgetthingseasi l
    yand
    somet i
    mesIcan’ tevenr econstructasimple
    sentence,Ihavet oalway swr i
    tei mportant
    thi
    ngsdowncauseImi ghtf or
    get
    them...
    ..
    somet imesIev enf orgetmyown
    bir
    thdayorKhai ’sbirt
    hdaybecauseofabr ain
    fog.
    ...
    .
    *
    **Iwi
    pedmyf
    all
    i
    ngt
    ear
    s**
    *
    Me: mypr egnancywasahi ghrisk, mostoft he
    ti
    meIspendi ti
    nhospi t
    albecauseofLUPUS. .
    .i
    cangoonandonabouthowmyl i
    fei saffect
    ed
    byt hisLupusdi seaseandInev ercompl ain
    mama, Ijustsoldieroncausethisdi seasewi l
    l
    bepar tofmyl i
    feuntil
    acureisf oundwhi ch
    mi ghtnev erhappencauseitsaut oimmune
    diseaset hatcomeswi t
    hotherchr onicdiseases
    ont opwhi chsomeIal r
    eadyhav e..
    ..
    andshe
    envi
    est hat.
    ..
    .she’sjeal
    ousoft hat
    ???.
    ..
    .asfor
    rel
    ati
    onships, mineneverwor kedout.
    ..
    .iwas
    cheatedon...
    .allt
    heguy sIdatedcheatedonme
    andhur tmewhi leshewasengagedt othelov
    e
    ofherlifeandInev erenviedorgotjeal
    ousof
    her.
    ..
    .iwasact uall
    yhappyt hatatl
    eastoneof
    uswillhaveahappyendi ng
    **
    *mamai sj
    ustlooki
    ngupbli
    nki
    ngr
    api
    dlyt
    o
    pr
    eventt
    earsfr
    om comingout*
    **
    Me: dowhatyouhav etodot
    ohelpherwit
    hthis
    scandalbutpleasemakesur
    eshestaysaway
    fr
    om me. .
    ..
    idon’twantt
    oseeher
    ..
    ..
    iwantpeace
    mamat hat’
    sal l
    ***
    Iturnedandfacedtheotherwaysasasob
    escapedmymout h...
    .i
    m br
    oken..
    ..
    Moerabr
    oke
    myhear tst
    rai
    ght**
    *

    _
    ___
    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL(MARI
    NA)

    NARRATED

    ***Mar i
    nai sst i
    ll
    passedoutf rom pain
    medi cationshegot , she’ snowadmi ttedatt he
    hospital..
    .Shegott hreest itchesonhernana
    andshe’ sal soonant ibioticsandt heyal sogav e
    hermor ningaf t
    erpi llsaf tersheaskedf or
    them. .
    .shecoul dn’tf allpr egnantagai nf orMdu
    themant hatjustbr okeherl i
    ket hisandher
    babygi rlisjustfourmont hsol df orhert obe
    fall
    i
    ngpr egnantagai nnott oment i
    ont hather
    husbandi sbackandnowmor ethanev ershe
    want stof ixhermar riagecauseMduj ust
    showedhert heot hersi deofhi m shehat es.
    ..
    .he
    didn’
    thav emer cyonherev enwhenshebegged
    himt ost ophedi dn’ t....ev enhercr i
    esdi dn’t
    mov ehi m soshe’ sdonewi thhim. .
    ..
    Hermot her
    i
    ssi
    tti
    ngther
    elooki
    ngsadasshel
    ooki
    ngat
    Mar
    ina..
    ..

    AsforMduhe’ soutsidei
    nhi scartryi
    ngt o
    fi
    gureoutwhathappened. .
    ..
    Heknowshedi dn’
    t
    gobacktoseeherl astnightbutshesai dhe
    came..
    ..
    .r
    ightnowhe’ sevenquest i
    oninghis
    sani
    tycauseMar i
    naswear shecamebuthe
    knowshedi dn’tandt hefactthatsheev en
    bannedhimf rom comi ngclosetohermeans
    she’
    snotmaki ngthisup..
    ..
    Hisphoner ingsand
    heanswers***
    Mdu:
    ma
    His.
    mother
    :what’sgoi
    ngonpapa.
    ..
    .whatdi
    d
    yousayhappenedtoMari
    na
    *
    **Hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mdu: shesaysIcamelastnightand.
    ..
    iwas
    roughwithheri
    nt hebedr
    oom. .
    .whenIcamet
    o
    seeherinthemor ni
    ngshelookedinpain
    Ma..
    .shewasbleedi
    ngandsheseemed
    weak..
    ..
    shesay
    sIdidthatt
    oherbutIdi
    dn’
    t
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :Idon’
    tunder
    standy
    ouMduur
    iyi
    ni
    Mdu:im asconfusedasyouma..
    ..
    idi
    dn’
    tgot
    o
    seeherlastni
    ghtbutsheswear
    sIdidandwe
    evental
    ked
    *
    **hi
    smot
    herkeptqui
    et*
    **
    Mdu: Mashel
    ookedbad.
    ..
    herneckisev
    enred
    l
    ikeshewasstr
    angl
    edandshesay sIdi
    dthatt
    o
    her.
    ..
    .di
    dIl
    eav
    ethehouselastni
    ght
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :Idi
    dn’
    theary
    oudr
    ivi
    ngoutl
    ast
    ni
    ght
    Mdu:
    am Il
    osi
    ngmymi
    nd.
    ..
    .
    His.
    mot her:noyou’r
    enot...
    letmegosee
    someone. .
    .hewill
    tel
    lmewhatt hehell
    isgoing
    on..
    ..
    i’
    l
    lgett othebottom ofthi
    sdon’tworr
    y
    Mdu:pl
    easema. .
    ..
    iloveMari
    naandIwoul
    d
    nev
    erhurtherespecial
    lyl
    i
    kethat
    His.
    mother:
    imyourmot her
    ..
    ..
    igotyouMari
    na
    soI’
    llmakesur
    ey oudon’tl
    oseher.
    ..
    .l
    etmefi
    nd
    outwhat’
    shappening
    Mdu:
    okMa.
    ..
    thanky
    ou
    Hi
    s.mot
    her
    :ev
    ery
    thi
    ngwi
    l
    lbeok.
    ..
    tr
    ustme
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    landMdusi
    ghed*
    **

    _
    ___

    **
    *Gazawalkedoutoft
    hedoctor’
    soff
    icewhen
    hi
    sphonerang..
    .het
    ookitoutofhi
    spocketand
    heanswer
    ed***
    Gaza:
    Beast
    Beast
    :thewi
    tchi
    scal
    l
    inghi
    m
    Gaza:l
    ethercal
    lunt
    ilJesuscomesback...
    .i
    wantthem t
    oliv
    einfear.
    ..
    .t
    osleepwithoneeye
    opened.
    ..
    .t
    oalwaysl
    ookov ert
    heirshoul
    ders
    Beast
    :soy
    ouwontst
    ri
    kenow
    Gaza:
    justwat
    chandsee.
    ..howi
    sshe
    Beast
    :whatreal
    l
    yhappenedt
    oherman..
    ..
    my
    guysaysshegotst
    it
    chesonherp*
    ssy
    ..
    ..was
    she.
    ..
    vi
    olat
    ed
    Gaza:Ihavenoi deaIjustknowshewas
    admitt
    ed...
    ..Ithoughtmay beshet r
    iedto
    commi tsui
    ci deaftermyv i
    sit.
    ..
    .anywayhav
    e
    yourboysst art
    edwi ththetransact
    ions
    Beast
    :yeahIdon’
    tknowifhehasnot
    icedbut
    yeaht
    heyhave..
    ..
    youst
    il
    lwanti
    tputi
    nat r
    ust
    fundf
    orhisbabygir
    l
    Gaza:hewi
    l
    l.
    ..
    thatbast
    ardl
    ovesmoneyand
    marri
    edwomen’sp*ssy
    *
    **Beastchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Beast
    :butwhythi
    nkofthebaby.
    ..
    shewil
    lbea
    const
    antremi
    nderofy
    ourwife’
    sbetr
    ayal
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza: shedidn’tasktobebor ntot hoset wo
    f*ck*rssosheshoul dn’tsufferfort heirsins..
    ..
    if
    theybot hli
    vetoseeher21stbi rthdayt heywi l
    l
    beshocked. ..
    iwantev eryt
    hinghemakest obe
    takenf r
    om him andputi nthatt rustfundwi tha
    wat erti
    ghtclawsandgi vent oherasabi r
    thday
    giftandshewi llr
    eceiveitli
    keanal lowanceunt i
    l
    themoneyr unsout ,
    wellthat’siftheyar esti
    ll
    ali
    v ebutiftheybothdiebef oresher eachesher
    21stbi r
    thdayorev enafterher21stbi rthday
    thenshe’ l
    lhaveaccesst oall ofitatonce
    *
    **Beastl
    aughed*
    **
    Beast:damnbutIsti
    l
    ldon’tunder
    standwhy
    though..
    ..
    youcoul
    dsavethatmoneyf ory
    our
    sonorsomet hi
    ng
    Gaza:im doi
    ngt hatforsomeonewhomeansa
    l
    ottomeandshedoesn’ tevenneedtoknowI
    di
    dthis..
    ..
    thefactthatIwill
    knowIoncedid
    goodforsomeoneIcoul d’
    vestrangl
    edtodeath
    wit
    hjustonehandwi llal
    waysremindmet hat
    ther
    e’sal
    sogoodi
    nme.
    ..
    .idon’
    twannabeal
    l
    bad
    Beast
    :whati
    fshechangesl
    i
    key
    ourwi
    fe
    Gaza:
    thenshe’
    l
    lal
    sowi
    tnessmyev
    ilsi
    de
    *
    **Beastkeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Beast
    :whati
    sitt
    haty
    ou’
    renott
    ell
    i
    ngmeman
    Gaza:
    wewi
    l
    ltal
    konTuesday
    Beast:hai.
    ..
    .ok.
    ..I
    ’
    llwaitf
    orTuesdayt
    hen.
    ..
    .ok
    Gee..
    ..
    .overandout !
    !!
    Gaza:
    rogert
    hatBeast
    ***
    theybothchuckledandendedthecal l
    ..
    .he
    openedhiscarandgoti nthenheclosedthe
    doorandsighedlookingatthepi
    ll
    shewas
    gi
    ven***
    Gaza:
    lett
    hegamesbegi
    n..
    ..
    ***
    hebuckl
    edupandst
    art
    edt
    hecarthenhi
    s
    phoner
    angandheanswer
    edi
    tdr
    ivi
    ngaway***
    _
    ___

    ***
    Mdu’smotheri
    spacingupanddowninthe
    hospi
    tal
    waiti
    ngareaandMari
    na’
    smotheri
    s
    j
    ustsi
    tti
    ngtheret
    ryi
    ngtomakesenseofwhat
    i
    shappening**
    *
    Emelda:
    didyouj
    ustsayMangany
    ehasbeen
    missi
    ngforawhi
    lenow
    Tsakane:that’
    swhathiswivessaid.
    ..
    .evenhis
    hutintheforesthasburnedtoashes.
    ...
    they
    saidhumanr emainswer ef
    oundthereandt he
    factt
    hat..
    .t
    hatuselessboyissti
    l
    lali
    veitmeans
    hekil
    ledhim andescapednxa
    Emel
    da:yho.
    ..
    .xekwebuxamina(y
    homy
    God)
    ..
    ..
    whatarewegoingtodoTsakane
    Tsakane:
    eish
    *
    **shet
    ookof
    fherheadwr
    apandshewi
    ped
    herf
    acet henshewrappedi
    taroundherhead
    agai
    n..
    .shewentandsatnextt
    oherfri
    end***
    Tsakane: thist
    imeheneedst odi ef
    orreal
    .
    ...
    he
    knowst hatweareresponsibl
    e..
    .hesawus
    Emel da...
    .ei
    shweshouldn’thavegonetosee
    him afterhewasabduct ed..
    ..
    wecelebr
    atedtoo
    earl
    yman
    *
    **shewhi
    sper
    edt
    oher
    ***
    Emelda:
    Mangany
    esaidhedidther
    it
    ualbut
    he’
    shereashi
    mself
    ..
    ..
    doyouthi
    nkheli
    edtous
    Tsakane:msathanyokol owo..
    ..
    nyaaooo
    l
    owo. .
    ..
    nkongwammay enaentleknxa..
    ..hel
    ied
    tous..
    ..
    yhoandtothinkwepai dhim al otof
    moneyEmel daandweev enlethim havehis
    waywi t
    hourbodiesandal lf
    orwhat ..
    ..
    thatboy
    wassupposedt obeunderourcont rol.
    ..t
    owork
    forus.
    ..
    nxa
    *
    **sheshookherheadf
    eel
    i
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Emel
    da:
    imt
    ell
    i
    ngy
    out
    hisboyi
    soutf
    or
    revenge..
    .heknowsevery
    thi
    ng.
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    ehe
    eventorturedManganyeandhetol
    dhim
    everyt
    hing
    Tsakane:
    IhopeMangany
    ebur
    nsi
    nhel
    lnxa
    Emelda: whataboutMar i
    na..
    ..
    shedoesn’twant
    totel
    lmewhodi dthattoher..
    ..
    shedidn’teven
    wannat ell
    t hedoctor.
    ..
    shejustcri
    estheyev en
    suggestedsheseesat herapist.
    ..
    yhongwana
    mina..
    ..
    shehadt obest i
    tchedagain
    Tsakane...
    .shejusthealedfrom hersti
    tchesof
    chi
    ldbirthandnowt hi
    s
    **
    *Tsakaneswal
    l
    owedhar dandshel
    ooked
    awayasEmeldawipedhertear
    soff*
    **
    Tsakane:
    wewi
    l
    lgett
    othebot
    tom oft
    his
    Emelda:onceIf
    indoutwhodi dthistomychi l
    d
    theywil
    lwisht
    heywerenev erborn..
    .anit
    lange
    whenitcomestomychi l
    drensohi sparents
    bett
    erbereadytobur
    yhim! !!
    *
    **shesai
    dangr
    il
    yandTsakaneswal
    l
    owed
    har
    dlooki
    ngdown*
    **
    Emelda:i
    mj ustgladMduwenttoseeheror
    el
    sewhoknowswhatwoul d’
    ve
    happened.
    ..
    .that
    ’swhyIt
    rusthi
    m wit
    hher
    ***
    Tsakanecl
    ear
    edherthr
    oat.
    ..
    sheneededt
    o
    savehersonnomat
    terwhat*
    **
    Tsakane:whati
    fit’
    sthatboyGazaorhesend
    ment orapeher
    ..
    ..rememberhe’soutf
    or
    rev
    engesohemi ghthav eal
    readyst
    art
    edwit
    h
    Marina
    *
    **Emeldaswal
    l
    owedhar
    dasherhear
    tbeat
    f
    ast**
    *
    Emelda:t
    heni
    t’
    son.
    ..
    .l
    ikeIsai
    dnotwi
    thmy
    chi
    l
    d...
    .
    ***Tsakanesmiledabitl
    ooki ngawaythenshe
    keptaser i
    ousfacelooki
    ngatherf r
    iend..
    .now
    all
    sheneedst odoisconv inceMarinathat
    Gazasendsomeonet orapeherandheused
    mut it
    omakeMar i
    naseet hatmanasMdu. ..
    .he
    coul
    dsayi twasGazahi
    mselfwhodidthatt
    o
    herbutwhatifhehasanal
    ibisosayi
    nghesend
    amant odothatwi
    ll
    def
    ini
    tel
    yconvi
    nce
    her.
    ..
    .shetookadeepbr
    eathcalmi
    ngdown***

    _
    ___

    ***
    Moer asatt hereinthebedr oom wai t
    ing
    whil
    et appingherr ightfootont hef l
    oor
    i
    mpat i
    ently...
    thewayshe’ sangryshehopesshe
    cancont r
    ol her sel
    fwhensheseeher ..
    ..
    After
    somet imeshehear dthekeyt urningont he
    maindoorandSel inawalkedi nandcl osedt he
    doorthenshel ockedi tandsheputherkey son
    topofherki tchencount eralongwi t
    hher
    handbagandshesi ghedtakingof fher
    shoes...
    .I
    nt hebedr oom Moer astoodbehi ndthe
    bedroom doorandwai ted..
    ..
    Selinai nhersmal lkitchen-loungear eashe
    openedherf ri
    dgeandi twasal most
    empt y..
    .onl
    yabot tl
    eofwat er,butterandjam
    andmi l
    kandsomehotchi l
    lysauceswer e
    l
    ef t
    ...
    .shesi ghedandcl oseditandshewentand
    tookoutherphoneandmadeacal l t
    oher
    blesserbuthedi dn’tpickup. .
    ..
    shesi ghed
    frustratedandsheputherphoneont heki
    tchen
    count erandshepr oceededt oher
    bedr oom. ..
    .shepushedt hedooropenandshe
    wal kedi nthenshef eltitcloseitselfandwhen
    shet ur nedapunchl andedbet weenherey es
    breaki nghernosei nt hepr ocessandshef el
    lon
    thef l
    oorpassi ngout ***
    Moer
    a:nxa.
    ..
    b*t
    ch
    ***
    shecheckedherpulseandshewasst i
    l
    lali
    ve
    soshepul l
    edthepl
    asti
    cchairthat’
    sinsidethe
    bedroom andsheputitnexttoherthenshe
    openedherschoolbagandt ookoutar opeand
    shewentbackt oherandshepulledherusi ng
    all
    herenergyandputheront hechai
    randshe
    ti
    deheroni t.
    ..
    shebreathedoutonceshe’sdone
    andshewentt ot akeadugt apefr
    om her
    schoolbagandsheputi tonhermouthandsat
    onthebedl ookingatherbloodi
    edface.
    ..
    .she
    l
    ookedatherbr uisedknucklesandshethought
    ofwaystomaket hem healfast
    er***
    Moer
    a:aar
    gI’
    l
    lfi
    ndaway
    ***shegotupandwenttothekit
    chen-l
    ounge
    areaandshewenttoherphoneandputi ton
    fl
    ightmodeandsheputitinsi
    deherbagand
    shewentbacktothebedroom hol
    dingajug
    fi
    ll
    edwithcoldwat
    er*
    **
    Moera:let’
    sgetthisoveranddonewith.
    ..
    ri
    ght
    besti
    e..
    .oohdamnIf orgotyoucan’
    thearmebut
    youcanbet raymel i
    kethat
    ..
    ..
    ooh
    Seli
    na..
    .Sel
    ina..
    ..
    .whathaveyoudonesweety
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER27
    .
    .
    .

    *
    **Sel
    inaopenedhereyessl
    owlyandshefound
    Moeralooki
    ngather
    ..
    ..
    shebli
    nkedrapi
    dlyas
    shefeltdi
    zzyandsheshutherey
    esandopened
    them agai
    nthenMoeraremovedthedugt
    ape
    onhermout hroughl
    yandSeli
    nascr
    eamed**
    *
    Moer
    a:shutup!
    !!
    ***
    shesai
    dslappi
    ngherhar
    dandt
    ear
    sran
    downhercheeks**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:
    Mo
    ***shewhisper
    edbutMoer
    adidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng
    shejustl
    ookedatherwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonher
    face**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:
    what
    ’sgoi
    ngon
    *
    **shet
    ri
    edt
    omov
    ebutshecoul
    dn’
    t**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:
    Moer
    awhat
    ’sal
    lthi
    s
    ***
    shesawamachet
    eknifeonMoer
    a’shand
    andsheswal
    l
    owedhard*
    **
    Moer
    a:wasi
    tyou
    Sel
    i
    na:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngaboutMoandwhat
    ar
    eyougoi
    ngt
    owi
    tht
    hatkni
    fe
    Moer
    a:Iaskedy
    ouaquest
    ionSel
    i
    na
    *
    **Sel
    inaswal
    l
    owedhar
    dwi
    thherhear
    tbeat
    ing
    f
    ast**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:
    Idon’
    tknowwhaty
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ngabout
    *
    **Moerasl
    appedSel
    inasohar
    donherf
    ace
    t
    hatshesawstar
    s***
    Moera:
    answermyquesti
    onandifyouscr
    eam
    I
    ’l
    lsl
    i
    tyourt
    hroatopensodon’
    ttestme!
    !!
    ***
    Sel
    inaswallowedhar
    dlooki
    ngscar
    ed..
    ..
    she
    hasneverseenMoerali
    kethi
    sbef
    ore**
    *
    Sel
    i
    na:Mothisi
    snotyou.
    ..
    justl
    etmegoand
    wewil
    lpr
    etendl
    iket
    hisdi
    dn’thappen
    Moera:
    pret
    end?
    ?..
    ..
    didy
    ouj
    ustsaypr
    etend
    Sel
    i
    na
    Seli
    na:look.
    ..
    .idon’
    tknowwhat ’
    sgoi
    ngonwi t
    h
    you.
    ...
    whyarey oudoingthi
    s..
    ..
    youneedhel
    p
    *
    **Moer
    alaughed*
    **
    Moera:you’
    retheonethatneedshelp.
    ..
    .imean
    ar
    ey outhatt
    hreat
    enedbymet haty
    ou
    pr
    etendedtobemyf ri
    endsoy oucanstabme
    i
    ntheback
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nachuckl
    edst
    il
    lfeel
    i
    ngdi
    zzy
    ***
    Sel
    i
    na:
    thr
    eat
    enedbyy
    ou.
    ..
    oohpl
    ease.
    ..
    .
    ***
    shesai
    droll
    ingherey
    esandMoer
    acl
    enched
    herjawsl
    ooki
    ngather**
    *
    Moera:soyoudi
    drecor
    dmewi
    thoutmy
    per
    mission
    Sel
    i
    na:
    Idon’
    tknowwhaty
    ou’
    ret
    alki
    ngabout
    Moer
    a:okI
    ’
    llr
    efr
    eshy
    ourmemor
    ythen
    *
    **sheputthedugtapebackonSel
    i
    nawhowas
    movingherfacet
    ryi
    ngtostopMoer
    a**
    *
    Moera:
    goodnowl
    etmer
    efr
    eshy
    ourmemor
    y
    okbest
    ie
    ***Selinatri
    edtot alkbutshecoul dn’tasshe
    sawMoer amov inghermi ddlef i
    ngeront he
    sharppar tofthekni fe...
    .Sel
    inat r
    iedtomov eon
    thechai rbutshe’st i
    edoni t
    ...
    .Herheadi s
    poundi nghardandherf aceisi npain..
    ..
    shet r
    ied
    tospeakbuti twasaf utilet
    hingt odo...
    The
    nextt hingMoer astabbedSel i
    naonherr ight
    thi
    ghandhet wistedt heknifet henlefti
    tthere
    maki ngSel i
    nascr eam wi thhermout hdug
    tapedast ear
    srandownhercheeks. .
    .t
    hepai n
    she’sf eel
    ingisoutoft hiswor l
    d* *
    *
    Moera:damn...
    inevert
    houghtI’
    lleverdot
    histo
    youbutyoupushedmet odoit.
    ..
    .iaskedy
    ou
    nicel
    ybutyoudecidedtoplaydumb. .
    ..
    wel
    l
    guesswhat..
    ..
    ihaveall
    thetimeint hewor
    ldso
    keepplayi
    ngdumbandI ’
    l
    lkeepstabbingyou
    *
    **Sel
    i
    naj
    ustcr
    iedasshet
    ooki
    nthepai
    n**
    *
    Moer
    a:soy
    ou’
    l
    ltel
    lmewheny
    ou’
    redonebei
    ng
    dr
    amati
    c
    *
    **Sel
    i
    naj
    ustcr
    iedhel
    plessl
    y**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATTHEHOSPI
    TAL(BUSHBUCKRI
    DGE)

    ***Mar i
    naislooki ngoutsidethewi ndowwi th
    hermi ndwonder ingaround...
    .She’saski ng
    herselfquestionsshehasnoanswer sto, r
    ight
    nowshe’ sregr etti
    ngcheat i
    ngonherhusband
    andal sofal
    lingpr egnantforMdu. .
    ..Even
    thoughshest i
    lllovesMdubutshewi shesshe
    cant urnthehandsoft imeandnotbe
    i
    nf l
    uencedbyhermot her,shewoul dstil
    l bea
    respectedmar ri
    edwomannowev eryonet hat
    knowsaboutherandMduj udgesher ..
    ..
    They
    tal
    kaboutherbehi ndherbackandev enbel itt
    le
    her..
    ..
    Shedi dn’tcarethatmuchaboutt hem but
    nowt hatGazai sbackandt heyfindouthei s
    andt hathe’sdivorcingherandev enki
    cki
    ngher
    outoft heirhouset hey’
    l
    lhaveaf i
    ll
    eddaywit
    h
    her..
    .Sheswal l
    owedhar dandtearsfi
    ll
    edher
    eyes...
    .Someonecl earedthei
    rthroatandshe
    quicklyli
    ftedherheadandherey esmetwith
    Gaza’s...
    .Tearsrandownhercheeksasshe
    fr
    oze* **
    Gaza:
    ist
    hisabadt
    ime
    ***
    shebl
    i
    nkedrapi
    dlysur
    pri
    sedt
    henshe
    qui
    ckl
    ywipedhert
    earsof
    f***
    Gaza:
    youl
    ookl
    i
    key
    ouseei
    ngaghost
    *
    **shecl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Mar
    ina:
    how.
    ..
    .howdi
    dyouknowi
    m her
    e
    Gaza:you’
    rest
    il
    lmywi
    feev
    ent
    houghy
    ou’
    re
    f*
    ckingmycousin
    **
    *shel
    ookedawayandswal
    l
    owsabi
    glump
    st
    uckonherthr
    oat
    ***
    Gaza:
    sowhathappenedt
    oyou
    ***
    sheswallowedagai
    nasmemor i
    esofwhat
    happenedtoherpl
    ayedinhermi
    nd..
    ..
    aloudsob
    escapedhermouth**
    *
    Gaza:okdon’
    ttel
    lmeifyoudon’
    twantt
    o..
    .i
    ts
    notl
    ikeI’
    l
    lcar
    eany way
    ***whathesai
    dwasl
    i
    keadaggerst
    abbi
    ngher
    heart
    ***
    Gaza:im onl
    yher
    etomakesur eyou’
    rest
    il
    lal
    i
    ve
    becauseofourson.
    ..
    ..
    hesti
    ll
    needsyouso
    wheny ouhaveti
    mecallhi
    m
    **
    *shecri
    edsil
    ent
    ly.
    ..
    .shecoul
    dn’
    tbel
    i
    evehe
    wasthi
    scoldt
    owardsher**
    *
    Gaza: andtel
    lyourboyf
    ri
    endthathebet t
    ernot
    stephisbackstabbi
    ngfeeti
    nmyhouse. .
    .i
    fyou
    twowantt omeetdoi tathi
    shouse..
    ..oohand
    I’
    llknowifhedoes,Ihavepeopl
    ewat chingit
    ,it
    s
    mypr opert
    yafteral
    l
    **
    *shejustsobbedandthedooropenedandin
    walkedMdu’smother.
    ..
    Gazatur
    nedtolookand
    hemetTsakane’seyesandTsakanedropped
    whatevershewasholdi
    ngwit
    hherey espopped
    out
    ..
    ..Gazachuckl
    edshaki
    nghishead***
    Gaza:
    wow
    **
    *het
    urnedtoMarinaandshel
    ookeddown
    embar
    rassedwi
    pinghertear
    sof
    f***
    Gaza:y
    oursoontobemot heri
    nlawi
    sher
    eand
    sheboughtgoodi
    es.
    ..
    ..
    enj
    oy
    ***hethenwal
    kedt
    owar
    dshi
    sauntwhoseems
    shaken***
    Gaza:whateverl i
    eyouplant osaytowi f
    eyov er
    ther
    eabortitwoman. .
    ..
    im nottheGazay ou
    knowTsakane, mydemonshav ewokensot his
    ti
    meI ’
    l
    lwipet hefloorwithyouruglywrinkl
    ed
    facewhil
    ey ou’renakedforev ery
    onetoseei f
    youdareme. .
    ..sotreadcarefull
    ywitch
    *
    **Tsakaneswal
    lowedhard.
    ..
    .hecoul
    dseehe
    meanteverywor
    d..
    ..
    hethenturnedt
    oMari
    na**
    *
    Gaza:
    wheny
    ouhav
    eti
    mecal
    lyourson
    *
    **t
    henhewal
    kedout
    ***
    Tsakane:
    he’
    sreal
    l
    yal
    i
    ve
    *
    **shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    fst
    il
    lshaken*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ATSELI
    NA’
    SPLACE

    Moer
    a:ar
    eyoudonebei
    ngdr
    amat
    icbest
    y
    *
    **Sel
    i
    naj
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Moer
    a:Iaskedy
    ouaquest
    ionSel
    i
    na
    ***
    shesaidtwisti
    ngtheknif
    eabitandSel
    ina
    screamedthroughthedugtapeonhermouth
    wit
    hmor efreshtear
    sfall
    i
    ngdownherface***
    Moer
    a:ar
    eyoudone
    ***
    shenoddedfeel
    i
    ngweak...
    .herheadis
    poundi
    ngreal
    l
    yhardandshe’slosingtoomuch
    bl
    oodandthepainisj
    ustunbearable*
    ***
    Moera:
    ifItakeof
    fthedugt
    apey
    ouwont
    scr
    eam ri
    ght
    ***
    shenoddedt hinki
    ngt hatmaybeshe’ll
    lether
    goifsheconfesses..
    ..
    .shecouldfeelt
    hatshe’s
    l
    osingherstr
    engthandherey esarenow
    bl
    urry.
    ..
    .Moeratookoffthedugt aperoughly
    andSelinaj
    ustclosedherey esasshef el
    tthe
    pai
    n***
    Sel
    i
    na:
    pleaseMo.
    ..
    pleasedon’
    tdot
    his
    Moer
    a:t
    hat
    ’snotwhatIwantt
    ohearbest
    y..
    .
    Sel
    i
    na:
    im.
    ..
    im sor
    ryIwasn’
    tthi
    nki
    ngst
    rai
    ght
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thaweakv
    oice*
    **
    Moer
    a:nowwear
    eget
    ti
    ngsomewher
    e..
    ..
    what
    ar
    eyousor
    ryf
    or
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nasobbed*
    **
    Seli
    na:i
    m..
    .i
    mtheonet
    hatsol
    dther
    ecor
    dingt
    o
    Stevens
    *
    **Moer
    afr
    owned*
    **
    Moer
    a:whi
    chSt
    evens
    Sel
    i
    na:
    Masai
    ’
    sex
    *
    **Moer
    akeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Moer
    a:whyhi
    m
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nakeptqui
    et*
    **
    Moer
    a:whyhi
    m damni
    t!
    !!
    **
    *shesai
    dmovingherhandt
    otoucht
    hekni
    fe
    st
    uckonSeli
    na’
    sthi
    gh***
    Sel
    ina:Iknewyoutwohat
    edeachot
    hersohe
    wil
    lpaywel l
    fori
    t
    Moer
    a:wow
    ***
    shewashurtt
    hattheper
    sonsheconsi
    der
    ed
    herri
    deordi
    ebetr
    ayedherl
    iket
    hat
    ***
    Moer
    a:whySel
    i
    na.
    ..
    .whatdi
    dIdosobadt
    oyou
    t
    haty
    ouwoul
    ddot
    hist
    ome
    ***
    Seli
    nacl
    osedherey
    esandMoeraslapped
    herhar
    donhercheekandshecr
    ied*
    **
    Moer
    a:Iaskedwhydamni
    t!
    !!
    Selina: becausey out hinkyou’rebettert han
    any oney ety ouhav eflawsf ardeepert hanmost
    peopl e...
    ..youenv yy oursist
    er sli
    fesobadt hat
    youpr etendedt ol oveherandunder standwhat
    she’sgoi ngt hroughi nherdailylif
    ewi thher
    sicknesssoshecandependony ou..
    ..
    y out hi
    nk
    herdependi ngony oumakesheri nf
    eriort oyou
    butno. .
    ..
    Masai hasmor ecl
    asst hany ou
    Moer
    a:shutup!
    !!
    *
    **shesai
    dthr
    oughhert
    eet
    h**
    *
    Sel
    ina:she’
    ssosimpl
    ebutt
    hewayshecar
    ri
    es
    her
    selfspeaksv
    olumes
    Moer
    a:Isai
    dshutup!
    !!
    Sel
    i
    na:
    youaskedmeaquest
    ionandi
    m
    answeri
    ngy ou..
    ..
    youal
    waysthi
    nkyou’
    rebett
    er
    thananyonewheny ou’
    renot
    hingbutmarr
    ied
    men’sdumpi ngsit
    e
    ***
    Moer aslappedherhar
    dacr
    ossherf
    aceand
    Sel
    inalaughedasmor ebl
    oodcameoutofher
    nose**
    *
    Seli
    na:youcankillmeMoer abuty ourtwinwill
    alwaysbebetterthanyou...shehast heman
    youwant ,
    achildandi m surehe’sgonnamar r
    y
    herwhil
    ey ourownf i
    ancédi edtoescapey our
    rott
    envagina.
    ..
    .i
    m surehef oundoutabouty our
    whoreway sandgoti nvolvedinthataccident
    Moer
    a:whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    *
    **Sel
    i
    nal
    aughedagai
    n**
    *
    Seli
    na: evenmeSel i
    naiswaybet t
    ert
    han
    you.
    ...
    lookatmewel lakenyombanna(im not
    barr
    en) ..
    ..
    akafetsasebel
    egosakakadi
    abort
    iont sagoganagof ela(Ididn’
    tdamage
    mywombwi thendlessabort
    ions)
    ***Moer aoutofangershepul l
    edt heknif
    eout
    quicklyfrom Sel
    ina’
    sthighandst abbedheron
    herchestt henshepulleditoutandslidher
    throatthenshecont i
    nuedt ostabSelina’
    s
    l
    ifelessbodyonherchestunt ilherhandgot
    ti
    redt henshestoppedandl ookedatherdead
    fri
    endshaki ng.
    ..
    ..
    shelookedatherbl oodied
    handsast heyshookmov ingbackwar dswith
    herhear tbeati
    ngfast.
    ..

    Sher ushedt ot hebathroom andwashedher


    handst hor oughlythenshel ookedather selfon
    Seli
    na’ssmal lmirr
    ort hatisont hewalli
    nsi de
    thebat hroom andt earsr andownher
    cheeks. .
    ..
    shesni ff
    edandt ookhertowel and
    wipedher sel
    fofall Seli
    na’sblood..
    ..
    shewentt o
    Seli
    na’ssmal lbuil
    tinwar drobeandt ookoneof
    Seli
    na’sshi rtsandleggi ngsandchangedher
    bloodiedcl othesandputherbl oodiedcl
    ot hes
    andt hetowel i
    nherschool bagshecamewi t
    h
    al
    ongwit
    hthekni
    feandshetookoutherphone
    andwal
    kedoutoft
    hebedroom….

    Shewentt ohermaindoorandputherearoni t
    tolistentoanymov ementandi twas
    quiet..
    ..
    sheslowlyopenedt hedoorandpeeked
    outsideandt hewasnooneout si
    desoshe
    quicklygotoutandcl osedthedoort henshe
    quicklylockeditwi
    thhershaki nghandsand
    that’swhenSelina’
    snei ghbouralsoopenedher
    doorandshecameoutwi thherman. .
    ..
    Moer
    a
    quicklyknockedont hedoor **
    *
    Moer
    a:Sel
    i
    na.
    ..
    .Li
    na
    ***
    shesaidknocki
    ngthenshet
    ookouther
    phonefr
    om herschool
    bagandcal
    l
    edSelina’
    s
    phone*
    **
    Moer
    a:damni
    t!
    !!
    *
    **shesaidasitt
    ookhertovoi
    cemail
    knowi
    ng
    f
    ull
    ywellsheputitonf
    li
    ghtmode**
    *
    Neighbour:i
    m sureshe’
    snotyetback.
    ..
    .she’
    s
    hardl
    yathome. .
    ..
    iswearherpart
    yingwaysand
    changingdif
    fer
    entmenev erydamndaywi l
    lput
    herintroubl
    esomeday
    Man:
    babyno
    Woman:
    what
    ..
    ..i
    t’
    sthet
    rut
    h
    Moera:wel
    lconcent
    rat
    eony ourl
    owclassman
    andstopmindi
    ngotherpeopl
    e’sbusi
    nessl
    e
    ser
    ibasampy a
    Woman:
    aski
    esor
    eng
    Moera:
    mov
    eri
    ghtal
    ongbef
    oreonny
    elawena
    nxa
    ***t
    hemanpul l
    edhergirl
    fr
    iendawayandt hey
    walkedawaywi t
    hthewomant hrowinginsult
    s
    atMoer awhojustshowedhert hemi ddl
    efinger
    thenshebreat
    hedoutwhent heydisappeared
    downt hest
    air
    s***
    Moer
    a:t
    hatwascl
    ose
    ***
    shewenttothestai
    rsandcl
    i
    mbeddownand
    shelookedar
    oundthenshewalkedoutoft
    he
    complexmakingacall
    ***

    _
    ___

    ***Alphal
    ett
    ewalkedinandGazacl
    osedthe
    doorandhewentt ot
    hecouchandhesatdown
    whileAlphaputhisbagdownandsatdown
    too***
    Alpha:
    youlookl
    i
    kesomeonewho’
    sgui
    l
    tyof
    something
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    edsi
    tt
    ingback*
    **
    Gaza:
    adr
    ink?
    ??
    Al
    pha:nodri
    nki
    ngunti
    lyou’
    recl
    eansed
    Gee.
    ..
    youknowthat
    Gaza:
    oohy
    ah.
    ..
    almostf
    orgot
    Al
    pha:
    sost
    artt
    alki
    ng
    Gaza:
    Iwentt
    oseeMar i
    naandIf
    oundherwi
    th
    Mduandthei
    rof
    fspr
    ing
    *
    **Al
    phar
    aisedhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whywoul
    dyougoseeher
    Gaza:
    Idon’
    tknow.
    ..
    .butIdi
    dany
    way
    s
    *
    **hesai
    dshr
    uggi
    ngandAl
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:Iseebl
    oodonyourhands.
    ..
    .dr
    ied
    bl
    ood.
    ..
    .whatdi
    dyoudoGeepleasebehonest
    wi
    thme
    **
    *Gazalookedathi
    shandsandthewasno
    bl
    ood..
    .hesi
    ghedandrubbedhi
    seyes*
    **
    Al
    pha:didyouki
    llf
    orTshi
    mo...
    .what
    ’sgoi
    ng
    Gee.
    ..
    .y
    ou’r
    esecreti
    veandact
    ingstr
    angeand
    whycantyoutal
    ktomel i
    keyouusedto
    *
    **Gazadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngandAl
    phasi
    ghed
    f
    eeli
    nghur
    t**
    *
    Alpha:youknowwhat ..
    .i
    tsfi
    ne..
    ..
    imti
    red
    Gee..
    ..i
    m donebeggingyoutotellmethi
    ngs..
    .i
    seey oudon’
    ttrustmeany moreandit
    s
    cool.
    ...
    aft
    erthi
    scleansi
    ngdoy ourshi
    tandI’
    l
    l
    domi ne
    ***
    hegotupandpickedhi
    sbagandhewal
    ked
    outwi
    thoutGazasayi
    nganyt
    hing*
    **
    Gaza:
    eish
    **
    *hesaidf
    eel
    ingsadnesst
    aki
    ngov
    erhi
    m..
    ..
    Hisphoner
    anganditwasTshi
    mo**
    *
    Gaza:
    heymama
    Tshi
    mo:
    hey
    *
    **shesai
    dsoundi
    ngdown*
    **
    Gaza:
    what
    swr
    ong.
    ..
    hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingst
    rai
    ghtup
    *
    **andshesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo:Iwastaki
    nganapandhadabad
    dream..
    ..
    aboutyou
    *
    **Gazakeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:
    tel
    lmeabouti
    t
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo: y
    ouhadbl oodi
    nyourhandsGee..
    ..
    and
    youwer esmil
    i
    ngl ooki
    ngatthebloodt
    henyou
    l
    ickeditandstar
    tedlaughi
    ngwithadevi
    li
    sh
    l
    augh
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Tshimo:ther
    ewer
    ethr
    eedeadbodi
    esonthe
    fl
    oor.
    ..
    .t
    heywerewomenandthet
    hir
    donewas
    decayi
    ng
    ***
    Gazaswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandTshi
    mokept
    qui
    et*
    **
    Tshimo: whateveryou’replanni
    ngt odoGee
    pleasedon’tdoi t
    ..
    ..
    im beggingyou...
    .i
    fthey
    crossedy oupleasedon’ tt
    aintyourhandswith
    theirbl
    ood...
    .l
    etGodandy ourAncestorsdeal
    withthem please
    Gaza:
    im sur
    eit
    sjustadr
    eam mama
    Tshi
    mo:
    real
    l
    yGaz
    a..
    ..
    justadr
    eam
    Gaza:
    yeah.
    ..
    .ihav
    en’
    tki
    l
    ledanyoneandIdon’
    t
    pl
    antosoithi
    nkitwasj
    ustdream.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:If
    eeli
    nsul
    tednow.
    ..
    .icantbel
    i
    eve
    you’
    ret
    heonebel
    it
    tl
    ingmygif
    t
    Gaza:
    wooohi
    m notbel
    i
    ttl
    i
    ngy
    ourgi
    ftTshi
    mo
    Tshi
    mo:thenwhyarey oudi
    smissi
    nga
    massagefrom myancestor
    sasameredr
    eam
    *
    **shesai
    dget
    ti
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    whyar
    eyouf
    ight
    ingmemama
    Tshi
    mo: mxm whyam Ievenargui
    ngwit
    h
    you.
    ..
    .i
    t’
    syourl
    if
    eany way
    s..
    ..
    ididmypar
    tso
    ther
    estisonyou..
    ..
    ***
    shedroppedthecal
    landGazasighed..
    .he
    cal
    ledherbackbutshedroppedt
    hecallagain
    andGazacl
    enchedhi
    sjawsthenhet
    ookadeep
    breat
    handsendheramassage**
    *
    Gaza:
    “answery
    ourphone.
    ..
    weneedt
    otal
    k”
    ***
    hecall
    edheragai
    nandshedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    againandhehuf
    fed*
    **
    Gaza:
    eish
    *
    **hesai
    dgetti
    ngupandhewentt ohismini
    f
    ri
    dgeandtookoutabott
    leofbeerandopened
    i
    twit
    hhisteet
    handhetookalargesip**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DEALPHA’
    SROOM

    Al
    pha:
    hedoesn’
    ttr
    ustmeany
    mor
    e
    Masai:
    im sur
    ethat
    ’snott
    het
    rut
    h
    baby
    ..
    ..
    rememberhewasabduct
    edmay
    behe’
    s
    notreadytotalkaboutwhathewentthrough.
    ..
    o
    ngakababet hefactthaty
    ousaidevenyour
    ancestorsarenotshowingyouanyt
    hingitmean
    i
    tsnoty etti
    mef oryoutoknowcausehe’snot
    ready
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    may bey
    ou’
    rer
    ightormay
    behej
    ust
    doesn’
    ttr
    ustme
    *
    **Masai
    sighedshecoul
    dtel
    lhe’
    shur
    tby
    t
    his*
    **
    Masai: t
    rustmewhenIsayhe’ llt
    alktoy ou
    whenhe’ sready..
    .don’
    tforcehim wenaj ustbe
    thereforhim...
    bethatpeaceheneeds. .
    .i
    m sure
    ketraumababe. ...
    bethatfamil
    iarplacehehad
    beforehewasabduct edcauset r
    ustmewhenI
    saythebr otheryouknewbef orehewas
    abductedi snotthesamebr otheryousee
    now...
    .tr
    aumadoest hattopeople..
    ..
    justgive
    himt i
    meandoskamof el
    l
    apel obabepl ease
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    ok.
    ..
    .t
    hanky
    ouNt
    sakoy
    ami
    na
    Masai
    :youdon’
    thav
    etot
    hankme.
    ..
    .igoty
    ou
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    iml
    ovi
    ngt
    hisser
    iousr
    elat
    ionshi
    pthi
    ng
    *
    **Masai
    laughed*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    mommyi
    sthatpapa
    Masai
    :yeahy
    ouwannat
    alkt
    ohi
    m
    *
    **AJnodded*
    **
    Masai
    :babeyoursonwant
    stot
    alkt
    oyou.
    ..
    .we
    wi
    llt
    alkl
    ater
    Al
    pha:
    okr
    andzor
    ami
    na(myl
    ove)
    Masai
    :bef
    oreIf
    orgetImi
    ghtbedi
    schar
    gedt
    he
    dayaf
    tert
    omorr
    ow
    Al
    pha:oohokwewi
    l
    ltal
    klat
    erabouti
    tthen.
    ..
    i
    l
    oveyou
    Masai
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    ***
    shegaveAJt hephoneandhewalkedtothe
    en-sui
    tbat
    hroom asheputthephoneonhisear
    ***
    AJ:
    hel
    l
    opapa
    Masai
    :AJoy
    akae(wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng)
    AJ:
    mommyi
    m comi
    ng
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whyar
    eyout
    alki
    ngi
    nther
    e
    AJ:
    Gol
    oit
    jashi
    shkr
    it
    ..
    ..
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    heh
    **
    *hewal
    kedi
    nsideandclosedt
    hedoorl
    eav
    ing
    Hil
    l
    sandMasaishocked*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Masa
    ***
    shecalledhernamewi
    thashocked
    expressi
    onandMasaisi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai
    :hisfatherwi
    l
    lhandl
    ethi
    snnakal
    wal
    a
    (
    causeim sick)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Amen…
    .
    .
    .

    I
    NSI
    DETHEBATHROOM

    Al
    pha:
    ori
    ghtchamp
    AJ:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    papa
    Al
    pha:
    myboy
    AJ:
    wher
    eisuncl
    e
    Al
    pha:
    whi
    chuncl
    e…Mpande?
    ?
    AJ:
    myuncl
    epapa.
    ..
    .uncl
    eNkul
    unkul
    u
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    youmeanGazankul
    u
    AJ:
    mmh
    Al
    pha:
    howdoy
    ouknowabouthi
    m
    AJ:
    Khul
    utol
    dme
    ***
    Alpharubbedhiseyes.
    ..
    .t
    hiswasget
    ti
    ng
    seri
    ous“hethought”*
    **
    AJ:gi
    vehi
    mthephonepapa.
    ..
    Khul
    uwantt
    o
    tal
    ktohi
    m
    Al
    pha:
    whi
    chKhul
    umyboy
    AJ:
    papaaa.
    ..
    .gi
    veuncl
    ethephone
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    okhol
    don
    ***hegotupandwal kedoutofhi sroom andhe
    wentt oGaza’sroom withhismi ndalloverthe
    place..
    ..
    hekeptaskinghimsel fwhet herhisson
    hasagi ftornot.
    ..
    ..
    butitl
    ooksl ikehedoes“ he
    thought”.
    ..
    .heneededt oconsultwi thhis
    ancestorstofindoutcauset hisi sgett
    ing
    serious.
    ..
    ..
    heknockedonGaza’ sdoorandGaza
    openedt hedoorshirtl
    esswithabeeronhi s
    handandAlphal
    ett
    ejustshookhi
    sheadwhi
    l
    e
    Gazajustsi
    ghedcaughtr
    edhanded*
    **
    Gaza:
    im st
    ressedman.
    ..
    .Tshi
    moi
    s..
    .
    Al
    pha:
    AJwant
    stot
    alkt
    oyou
    ***
    hesaidint
    err
    upti
    nghim andhepushedhi s
    wayinandhesatdownl ookingatthethr
    ee
    bott
    lesontopofthetabl
    e..
    .heputhisphoneon
    hi
    sear *
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Champ
    AJ:
    hel
    l
    o..
    .papa
    Al
    pha:
    yes.
    ..
    her
    ehei
    s
    *
    ***Al
    phalookedatGazaandGazacl
    ear
    edhi
    s
    t
    hroatsi
    tt
    ingdownasAlphaputt
    hephoneon
    l
    oudspeaker*
    **
    Gaza:
    heyboy
    ..
    ..
    thi
    sisy
    ouruncl
    eGee
    AJ:
    Khul
    usayIshoul
    cal
    lyoubabaNkul
    unkul
    u
    *
    **Hewant
    stosaybab’
    mkhul
    u**
    *
    Gaza:
    whi
    chKhul
    u
    **
    *hesai
    dfrowninglooki
    ngatAl
    phaand
    Al
    phal
    ett
    ejustshrugged*
    **
    AJ:
    myKhul
    u
    Gaza:
    ooh.
    ..
    .ok
    AJ:
    Khulusayy
    oushoul
    tel
    lpapaabatt
    he
    monst
    er
    ***
    Gaza’shear
    tski
    ppedabitandhef
    rozeabi
    t
    andAlphal
    ett
    ecaughtt
    hat
    ***
    Gaza:
    what
    ..
    .whatmonst
    er
    AJ:Khul
    usay.
    ..
    .dont
    eshi
    m..
    ..
    hewi
    l
    lbeaty
    ou
    bl
    ackanblue
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    AJ:Khul
    usayt r
    ushy ourbl
    adaandt
    ell
    him abat
    themonsterorhetakey ou
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ejustl
    ookedatGazawi t
    haseri
    ous
    l
    ookonhi
    sfaceandGazajustlookeddownas
    hepoppedhi
    sknuckl
    es*
    **
    AJ:
    babaNkul
    unkul
    u..
    .wher
    eishmybl
    ada
    *
    **Gazacl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Gaza:
    yourbl
    a..
    .ooohy
    oumeanbr
    other
    AJ:
    yesNi
    ko.
    ..
    .Khul
    usaybl
    i
    nghi
    mtome
    ***Alphal
    ett
    eswallowedhar
    d..
    ..
    thi
    swas
    extremelyseri
    ouscausehehasnevertol
    dhi
    m
    aboutGaza’ssonorhisname..
    ..
    Gazaand
    Alphalett
    elookedateachot
    hershocked*
    **
    AJ:
    hel
    l
    o..
    ..
    babaNkul
    unkul
    u??
    ?
    *
    **Gazacl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Gaza:
    yesboy
    ..
    .i
    ’
    llbr
    inghi
    mtoy
    ou
    AJ:
    yeeei
    ***
    hesaidexci
    tedandAl
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owed
    hard*
    **
    AJ:
    okpapa
    Al
    pha:
    yeschamp
    AJ:
    lov
    evu
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ilov
    eyout
    oochamp
    AJ:
    babaNkul
    unkul
    u
    Gaza:
    yesboy
    AJ:
    lov
    evu
    *
    **Gazasmi
    l
    edf
    eel
    i
    ngsmi
    tt
    en*
    **
    Gaza:
    lov
    eyout
    oomyboy
    AJ:
    babaNkul
    unkul
    utel
    lNi
    koLov
    evu
    *
    **Gazal
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    Iwi
    l
    ltel
    lhi
    m Ipr
    omi
    se
    AJ:
    papa
    Al
    pha:
    yeschamp
    AJ:
    bli
    ngmyj
    ell
    ybear
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    echuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    bri
    ngt
    hem
    AJ:
    okshap
    Al
    pha:
    shap
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eendedthecal
    lthenhesi
    ghed
    r
    ubbi
    nghiseyes*
    **
    Gaza:
    hehasagi
    ft
    Al
    pha:
    Ithi
    nkso.
    ..
    .ei
    sh
    *
    **hegotup*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    stooy
    oungf
    oral
    lthesenx
    *
    **hesai
    dwal
    ki
    ngt
    owar
    dst
    hedoor
    ***
    Gaza:
    im sor
    ryNt
    sako
    *
    **Al
    phast
    oppedonhi
    str
    acks*
    **
    Gaza:gi
    vemeunti
    lWednesdayandI’
    llt
    ell
    you
    ever
    ythi
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    andwhenIsayever
    ythi
    ngImean
    ever
    ythi
    ng
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    I’
    ll
    wai
    tforWednesdayt
    hen
    ***
    hewalkedoutandGazasighedt
    henhe
    pi
    ckedhisphoneanddial
    l
    edTshimo’sphone
    andlucki
    l
    ysheanswered**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    Gazankul
    u
    Gaza:
    im nol
    ongerGeet
    oyou
    Tshi
    mo:
    kebusyabut
    ineor
    eng
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:youmeanever
    ythi
    ngt omemama. ..
    .i
    wannagivey
    outhewor l
    d..
    ..
    iwannamakey ou
    happyandgi
    veyouyourheart’
    sdesir
    e..
    ..
    .i
    swearIwasnotbel
    it
    tl
    ingyourgif
    t.
    ..
    ij
    ust
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza: i
    m notasai nt
    ..
    ..
    i’
    vedonebadthingsin
    myl i
    fe.
    ..
    .beinganex-mi l
    i
    tarymanmeansIhav e
    takenli
    ves..
    ..ihav
    ebloodi nmyhandsasf orthe
    deadbodi esyousaw. .
    ..
    may bei
    t’
    sthesuici
    de
    bomber sweusedt otakeoutwhil
    eiwasst i
    ll
    in
    themi l
    it
    ary.
    ..i
    don’tknow...
    .May
    bethatdream
    wasmebeingt
    oldt
    ogetcl
    eansedor
    somet
    hing
    ***
    heliedthr
    oughhi st
    eet
    handTshi mo
    si
    ghed...
    .i
    tmadesensebutshewasst i
    l
    l
    unsett
    ledaboutthatdr
    eam..
    ..
    whywashe
    smili
    ngli
    kethat.
    ..
    ..
    whywastheot herbody
    decayi
    ngwhileotherswer
    estil
    lfr
    esh***
    Gaza:forgi
    vememama. .
    .i
    mlosi
    ngmymi nd
    here.
    ..
    .youcan’
    tgetmadatmel i
    ket
    his.
    ..
    .i
    m
    yourpati
    entsoyoucantgetmadatme
    Tshi
    mo:
    real
    l
    ynow
    Gaza:
    pleasemama.
    ..
    for
    giv
    eme
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    itsf
    ineIf
    orgi
    vey
    ou
    Gaza:
    smi
    l
    eformet
    hen
    Tshi
    mo:
    bat
    hong
    Gaza:
    smi
    l
    eformemama
    *
    **shel
    aughedandGazasmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    don’tgetmadatmemama...
    .il
    osemy
    mindwheny oudo..
    ..
    youar
    emypeace
    mama...
    .mysanit
    y
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Gaza:
    wegoodr
    ight
    *
    **shecl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    yeahwegood
    *
    **Gazasmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    great.
    ..
    .I
    ’
    llcheckony
    oul
    ater
    Tshi
    mo:
    ok.
    ..
    lat
    ert
    hen
    Gaza:
    andmama
    Tshi
    mo:
    mmmmh
    Gaza:
    nakor
    andza….
    alway
    sremembert
    hat
    Tshi
    mo:
    huh?
    ??
    *
    **hedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER28
    .
    .
    .

    **
    *Mpandesatont
    heedgeofhisbedand
    si
    ghedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    swetbri
    efs,
    theyar
    ewet
    fr
    om awetdr eam hej usthadofhim making
    l
    ov et
    oHi l
    ls.
    ..
    .I
    tfeltsoreal t
    hatheenjoy
    edit
    andevencamehar dscr eaminghername,right
    nowhe’ sembarrassedandangr yathimselffor
    dreamingaboutherl i
    ket hat
    ***
    Mpande:
    thi
    siswi
    tchcr
    aft
    **
    *hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    fashel
    ookedathi
    swet
    br
    ief
    s**
    *
    Mpande:ormaybeit
    ’sanev
    ilspi
    ri
    tdi
    sgui
    sing
    asNtabeni
    ..
    ..
    yaht
    hat’
    sit
    ***henoddedashet r
    iedt
    oconvi
    nce
    himself
    ..
    ..
    hepickedhi
    sphoneandmadea
    call
    ***
    Voi
    ce:
    hel
    l
    o..
    ..
    Mpande
    Mpande:
    Ma
    Mom: yeboMpande..
    .i
    sever
    ythi
    ngok.
    ..
    .wa
    founaekseni
    kangaka(whyareyoucal
    li
    ngthi
    s
    earl
    y)
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    maugogoShl
    ahl
    ausaphi
    l
    a(mai
    s
    gogoShl
    ahl
    ast
    il
    lal
    i
    ve)
    Mom:
    heh.
    ..
    ummm y
    ebowhyar
    eyouaski
    ng
    Mpande:
    arey
    out
    wost
    il
    lfi
    ght
    ing
    Mom: yeboasi
    khul
    umisani
    namanj
    e(wear
    ein
    nospeakingt
    ermsevennow).
    ..
    why
    Mpande:i
    ngat
    hiuy
    angi
    l
    oyama(It
    hinkshe’
    s
    bewi
    tchi
    ngme)
    Mom:
    heh
    Mpande: uthumelai
    zi
    ntozakhema. .
    ..
    ngiphupha
    ngi
    lal
    anent obazaneyesdudl
    a(she’ssending
    herevi
    lthingstomema…Idr eam havi
    ngseggs
    wit
    haf atlady)
    Mom: ut
    hini
    wenaMpande(whatar
    eyou
    say
    ingMpande)
    Mpande:
    she’
    sbewi
    tchi
    ngmema..
    ..
    im comi
    ng
    hometomorr
    owyouneedt
    otakemetoa
    str
    ongsangoma.
    ..
    .uAl
    phai
    snotar
    oundandI
    can’
    twaitf
    orhi
    mtocomeback
    Mom:ok.
    ..
    ok..
    ..don’tworr
    yI’
    ll
    takeyou.
    ..
    .but
    whydoyouthi
    nki t
    ’shersendi
    ngotokol
    osito
    you
    Mpande:howcany ouaskthatma..
    ..youknow
    thatwomanhatesyouandsheusedt obewi
    tch
    uswhileIwasgrowingup.
    ..
    remembert hatt
    ime
    shesaidshewon’tr
    estunt
    ilyousuf
    f erj
    ust
    becausehercatdi
    edinouryardandwedon’ t
    knowwhatkill
    edit
    *
    **hi
    smot
    hersi
    ghed*
    **
    Mom:
    yesIr
    ememberbut
    ..
    ..
    Mpande:mangi lal
    anotokol
    osi .
    ..
    .uy
    angi
    loy
    a
    l
    ogogo..
    ..
    .ubudodabami isbeingabused(ma
    i
    m sl
    eepingwi t
    hev i
    lspi
    ri
    ts…thatoldwomani s
    bewi
    tchi
    ngme…mymanhoodi sbeingabused)
    Mom:
    ok.
    .okI
    ’
    llt
    akey
    ou
    Mpande:
    ok...
    .andIsweari
    fit
    sreal
    l
    yheri
    m
    goi
    ngtokil
    lhernxa
    Mom:
    hai
    Mpande.
    ..
    dontt
    alkl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Mpande:
    otokol
    osi
    bakhe(hi
    sev
    ilt
    hings)ar
    e
    r
    api
    ngmeMa
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mom:
    wewi
    l
    lgethel
    pdon’
    twor
    ry
    Mpande:
    webet
    terorshe’
    sdead
    Mom:
    yho.
    .okke.
    ..
    i’
    l
    lseey
    out
    omor
    row
    Mpande:ok.
    ..
    shap
    ***t
    heyendedthecallandhesi
    ghed.
    ..
    .hi
    smind
    wenttothedream andhefel
    tbutt
    erf
    li
    esinhi
    s
    stomachandhequi ckl
    ygotupshaki
    nghis
    head**
    *
    Mpande:
    no.
    ..
    no.
    ..
    no.
    ..
    .noway
    s..
    ..
    mmhmmh
    ***
    heshookhisheadnoashewenttohis
    bathr
    oom..
    ..
    hetookoffhi
    sbr
    ief
    sandithadhi
    s
    cum al
    lov
    eri
    tandhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon
    ***
    heaskedhimselft
    henhewashedhisface
    andheheardhisphoneri
    ngi
    ng.
    ..
    .hehur
    ri
    edtoit
    andanswered*
    **
    Mpande:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    Root
    Mpande:
    skhi
    phani
    Gaza:nothi
    ngmuch.
    ..
    .imi
    ssedyourcal
    ll
    ast
    night
    ..
    ..
    iwasbusywi
    thsomethi
    ngandIforgot
    tocally
    ouback
    Mpande:
    noworri
    es..
    ..
    .aboutt
    hat
    ..
    .Jabuwas
    t
    akeninf
    orquest
    ioni
    ng
    Gaza:
    damni
    t.
    ..
    .why
    ..
    .i
    sheasuspect
    Mpande:y
    ouknowwhent hewi
    feget
    ski
    l
    ledt
    he
    husbandi
    sthef
    ir
    stsuspect
    Gaza:
    yeah….ei
    shi
    sitbad
    Mpande: nah.
    ..
    theyl
    ethim gobutt
    hetwo
    detect
    iveshandli
    ngthecasehavesomesor
    tof
    beefwithhim
    Gaza:getmet
    hei
    rnamesandnumber
    sandI
    ’
    ll
    handl
    eit
    Mpande:
    sur
    e..
    .ei
    sh
    Gaza:
    what
    Mpande:t
    here’
    sanotherprobl
    em..
    ..theyf
    ound
    f
    inger
    pri
    ntsonthebodies.
    ..
    .mysourcesays
    t
    heyarenotJabu’
    sbutsomeonecl osetohim
    Gaza:
    Idon’
    tunder
    stand
    Mpande: metooGee..
    ..
    .t
    hiswholeshi
    tis
    confusi
    ng..
    ..
    mysourcesaidhe’
    l
    lgetmet he
    nameoft heper
    sonwhosef i
    ngerpr
    int
    sthey
    found
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    keepmeupdat
    ed
    Mpande:
    sur
    eIwi
    l
    landwhat
    ’shappeni
    ngt
    hat
    si
    de
    Gee:Igott
    hosewi tcheswhereIwantt hem..
    ..
    .i
    wantthem t
    oliv
    ei nfear…toalwayslookover
    t
    heirshoul
    dersandasf orwifeyandcousin
    well
    ….l
    etssayIalsogott hem whereIwant
    t
    hem
    Mpande:
    letmeknowi
    fyouneedmyhel
    p
    Gee:
    youknowIwi
    l
    l
    Mpande:
    whataboutAl
    pha
    Gee:
    havey
    ounot
    icedsomet
    hingwei
    rdabout
    hi
    sson
    Mpande:AJ.
    ..
    .nahhe’
    sagoodboyandl
    oves
    j
    ell
    ybear
    ssweet s
    Gee:
    mmh.
    ..
    .doy
    out
    hinkhe’
    sgi
    ft
    edl
    i
    keNt
    sako
    Mpande: ummm Idon’
    tthi
    nkso..
    ..
    maybehei
    s
    butIhaven’
    tnot
    icedanyt
    hingwei
    rdabout
    hi
    m...
    .why
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghs*
    **
    Gee:hesaidsomethingwei r
    dtomebutIguess
    he’
    sjustbeingachi
    ld..
    ..
    .anywayl
    etmeget
    goi
    ng..
    ..
    Ntsakoiswaiti
    ngf orme
    Mpande:
    sur
    e..
    .I
    ’
    llkeepy
    ouupdat
    ed
    Gee:
    yeahnakhensabr
    o
    Mpande:
    sur
    e
    ***
    theyendedt
    hecal
    landhedi
    aledMasai
    ’
    s
    numbers***
    Masai
    :hel
    l
    o
    Mpande:
    kot
    i.
    .i
    tsMpandeher
    e
    Masai
    :oohheyMpande
    Mpande:skhi
    phani
    .
    ...
    .ihopey
    ou’
    reget
    ti
    ng
    bet
    ternow
    Masai
    :yeahi
    mfeel
    i
    ngbet
    ter
    Mpande:t
    hat
    ’sgoodnewskoti
    .
    ..goodnews
    i
    ndeedandother
    wisewi
    thever
    ythingel
    se
    ur
    ight
    ***
    shesi
    ghed.
    ..
    sheknewwhathewas
    aski
    ng*
    **
    Masai
    :IcantchangewhathappenedsoIjust
    needt
    odeal wi
    thitandmoveoni fIcan
    Mpande:kuzol
    ungadon’ twor ry
    ..
    ..dontst
    ress
    toomuchandwenaj ustletherdeal wit
    hthe
    aft
    ermathofheracti
    ons...iknowi taff
    ectsyou
    toobutdon’
    tdwellt
    oomuchont hat.
    ..
    .j
    ustfor
    yourownhealt
    hletev er
    ythingbeand
    concent
    rat
    eonget t
    ingbet ter
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Masai:
    Iheary
    ouandthanksf
    ory
    our
    encour
    agi
    ngwordsMpande
    Mpande:ahhwhenyouhavemeuphet
    he
    i
    ngakar
    a..
    ..
    bossoyadibosso
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Mpande:
    bonakot
    i.
    ..
    .ineedaf
    avourman
    Masai
    :oki
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Mpande:
    Idon’
    tknowify
    oursi
    sterHil
    l
    stol
    dyou
    t
    hatshebumpedint
    omycarnotlongago
    Masai
    :what
    Mpande:mmh. .
    ..
    andsheaskednott
    oinv
    olve
    thepol
    icecauseshesai
    dshe’l
    lfi
    xmycar.
    ...
    i
    ts
    notbadbutyoucanseethedamagebuteishI
    for
    gottotakehernumber
    ssoi fy
    oudon’
    t
    mind.
    ..
    Masai
    :whydi
    dn’
    tshet
    ell
    me
    Mpande:
    you’
    rei
    nahospi
    talkot
    iandy
    ou’
    real
    so
    goi
    ngthr
    oughal
    otsounder
    stand
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande: i
    tsnot
    hingseri
    ousandnoonewas
    hurtIj
    ustwantmycarf i
    xednje.
    ..
    .i
    fIhad
    i
    nsuranceonitIwouldn’
    tevenbotherherbutI
    don’t
    ..
    .pl
    usshesaidshehasinsuranceso..
    ..
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai
    :yeahshedoes.
    ..
    .imj
    ustsadt
    hatshe’
    s
    goingthroughthingsalonebecauseshedoesn’ t
    wannast ressme. .
    ..Hi
    ll
    shasagoodhear t
    Mpandeandshet endstobot t
    lethi
    ngs
    i
    nside.
    ..she’sdeali
    ngwithal otri
    ghtnowandi m
    j
    ustscar edthatoneoft hesedaysshe’sgonna
    crack.
    ..
    .Shewasoncedepr essedafterhertwi
    ns
    deathandIdon’ twanthert ogobackt othat
    darkholeagain….shedeser vesabreak
    ***
    shesighedastear
    srandownhercheeksand
    shewipedthem**
    *
    Masai
    :I’
    l
    lpayf
    ory
    ourcarj
    ustl
    etherbepl
    ease
    Mpande:
    ummm
    *
    **hehesi
    tat
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    Idon’
    tthi
    nkAl
    phawi
    l
    lbehappywi
    th
    me
    Masai
    :i
    tsmymoneyMpande
    Mpande:l
    ookitsnotaboutt
    hemoney
    ..
    ..
    it
    s
    t
    he.
    ..
    .pri
    nci
    ple
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Masai
    :whatar
    eyout
    aki
    ngabout
    Mpande:y ouwon’
    tgeti
    t.
    ..
    lookIwon’tst
    ress
    herorharassher
    ..
    ..
    ij
    ustwannateaseherabit
    toneveruseherphonewhiledr
    ivi
    ng
    *
    **hel
    i
    ed*
    **
    Masai
    :mar
    aMpande
    Mpande: l
    etmehav esomef unMasai
    man..
    ..
    .may beshe’
    l
    lforgethertroubl
    esfora
    bi
    t.
    ..
    .i
    tsjustsomeharml essteasenjehaw
    ***
    shej
    ustshookherheadnotbel
    i
    evi
    ngwhat
    shewasheari
    ng**
    *
    Mpande:im nomonsteroracr eep..
    ..
    icoul
    duse
    myway stogetthem butIdon’twannaseem
    l
    ikeacreepthat
    ’swhyim askingy ou.
    ..
    ..
    imean
    noharm kot
    is
    **
    *whatt
    hehel
    li
    shedoing“hethoughtt
    o
    hi
    msel
    f”andMasai
    justsi
    ghedovert
    hephone
    *
    **
    Masai:okI’
    llgi
    vet
    hem t
    oyoubutI
    ’
    llt
    ell
    hert
    o
    expectyourcal
    l
    Mpande:
    nopr
    obl
    em .
    ..
    shokot
    i
    Masai
    :shap
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Mpande:whatt
    hehel
    lam Idoi
    ng.
    ..
    .uy
    ahl
    any
    a
    Mpande
    *
    **hehuf
    fedr
    oughl
    ybr
    ushi
    nghi
    shai
    r**
    *
    Mpande:Ineedtogetcl
    eansed.
    ..
    .i
    m bei
    ng
    bewi
    tchedhere
    ***
    heshookhi
    sheadandwentbackt
    othe
    bathr
    oom**
    *

    _
    ___

    MOERA(NARRATED)
    Drench:whatt
    hehell
    iswrongwi
    thy
    ou
    Moera..
    ..
    haveyounowtur
    nedint
    oaser
    ial
    kil
    l
    er
    huh
    ***
    She’
    ssi
    tti
    ngt
    herecryi
    ngwithherheadal
    l
    overt
    hepl
    aceandDrenchisbusypaci
    ngup
    anddown*
    **
    Dr
    ench:
    fir
    sti
    twasy
    ourt
    winnowy
    ourf
    ri
    end
    Moer
    a:Idi
    dn’
    tmeant
    oIswear
    Dr
    ench:y
    ousli
    dherthroatMoerar
    ightaf
    tery
    ou
    st
    abbedhermul
    ti
    pleti
    messoy eahyoumeantit
    *
    **shej
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Drench:what’
    shappeningwit
    hy ou.
    ..
    doyousee
    thepathyou’r
    eon...
    you’
    rel
    osingyoursel
    fMo
    andIdon’tl
    ikeitonebit
    Moera:
    shebetray
    edmeDr e.
    ..
    ..
    andshe’
    snot
    myfamilysoshedeser
    vedit
    *
    **Dr
    enchst
    oppedpaci
    ngandhel
    ookedather
    wit
    hhishandsonhiswai
    standhechuckl
    ed
    shaki
    nghishead*
    **
    Drench:y
    outhi
    nkt
    aki
    ngsomeone’
    sli
    fei
    s
    chil
    d’spl
    ayhuh
    *
    **shedidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustwi
    pedher
    t
    earsoff
    ***
    Dr
    ench:
    wel
    li
    tsnot
    !!
    !
    Moer
    a:i
    tsnotl
    i
    kei
    t’
    sthef
    ir
    stt
    ime
    Dr
    ench:
    what
    *
    **heaskedwi
    thaf
    rownonhi
    sface*
    **
    Moera:
    stopjudgi
    ngmeDr e.
    ..
    .iknowy
    ou’
    ve
    doneworsesoplease.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Dr
    enchchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Moera:Ij
    ustneedhel
    pwit
    hcleani
    ngupandyou
    canshoutandjudgemeal
    lyouwantpl
    ease
    **
    *Dr
    enchjustlookedathercl
    earl
    yandhesaw
    whyhi
    sbrotherdoubtedmarry
    ingher.
    ..
    .She
    wastoomuchf orhim...
    hecouldn’thandle
    her.
    ..
    hewasnev ergonnabeabl etohandl e
    her.
    ..
    she’sjustararecrazybreedalltogether
    andheneedst otameherorshe’ l
    lbehi s
    downfallcausesheactsi r
    rat
    ionalwhenshe’ s
    underpressure...
    .hesi
    ghedandsatback
    down***
    Dr
    ench:
    myboy
    sar
    ebusycl
    eani
    ngup
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Moer
    a:t
    hanky
    ou
    Drench:don’
    tthankmeasofy
    et.
    ..
    ..y
    ouoweme
    yourli
    fefr
    om nowon
    ***
    hesai
    dwi
    thaseri
    ousl
    ookonhi
    sfaceand
    sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d***
    Moer
    a:j
    ustmaket
    hisdi
    sappearpl
    ease
    Dr
    ench:
    rememberi
    fIdot
    hisIowny
    ou
    ***shelookedathim shocked,
    shecouldsee
    he’sser
    ious..
    ..
    .shel
    ookeddown...
    .sheknewshe
    cantmakethisgoawayonherownandshe
    cantaskshelpfrom hermot hercauseshewi l
    l
    neverheart
    heendofi tandev ent houghther
    e
    aresomeunr esolvedi ssueswi t
    hhershecant
    haveherinv
    olvedint his..
    ..
    Sher aisedthem and
    gaveherabet t
    erli
    f eandf orthatshel ovesher
    eventhoughshef av our sMasai ov er
    her.
    ..
    .Masai“
    shet hought ”.
    ..
    ..

    Shewonder showhur tsheisandhowmuch


    shehat eshernow. .
    ...
    Nowsheaccept sthat
    Seli
    nadeser v edit
    ,shej ustruinedherreputati
    on
    andnowshej ustsignedherl ifeawaytoa
    devi
    l..
    .yesDr enchist hedevil hi
    mself.
    ..
    ..
    hecan
    behear tl
    essandcol dheartedandnowshe
    oweshi m herl i
    fe,sheshoul d’vecal
    ledheruncle
    i
    nsteadbuti t’stoolatenowcauseshedi dn’t
    thi
    nkt histhr
    ough. ..
    .Shepani ckedandmadea
    hastydecision...
    shesi gheddef eat
    ed..
    ..
    she
    should’vetorturedSelinasomemor ebef or
    e
    ki
    l
    li
    ngher“
    shet
    hought
    ”**
    *
    Moer
    a:ok
    Dr
    ench:
    justl
    i
    ket
    hat
    *
    **her
    aisedhi
    sey
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Moer
    a:whatchoi
    cedoIhav
    e
    Drench:y
    oudohaveachoi ceMo..
    ..
    youcan
    choosetogotoj
    ail
    ..
    .imeany oupl
    annedthe
    wholethi
    ngsoyouknewt heconsequences
    ***sheswal
    l
    owedhard..
    ..
    shecantbel
    i
    evehow
    quickl
    yhechangedfr
    om bei
    ngaconcerned
    Drenchtoacoldone*
    **
    Moer
    a:y
    oudi
    dn’
    thav
    etoputi
    tli
    ket
    hat
    Drench:
    yousaidi
    tyour
    sel
    fthati
    tsnotthef
    ir
    st
    t
    imesoy ouknewwhatyouweredoing
    **
    *hesai
    dgetti
    ngupandhewentt
    opour
    hi
    mselfadr
    ink**
    *
    Dr
    ench:
    don’
    tyouwantt
    oknowwhatme
    owni
    ngy
    oumean
    Moer
    a:i
    m sur
    eyougonnat
    ell
    me
    ***
    shesai
    drol
    l
    ingherey
    esandDr
    ench
    chuckl
    ed*
    **
    Dr
    ench:
    Iownt
    hatbodyofy
    our
    sandy
    oursoul
    Moer
    a:aski
    es
    *
    **shesai
    dfr
    owni
    ng*
    **
    Drench:fr
    om nowony ou’ r
    emysex
    toy.
    ..
    .wheneverIneedt of *
    ckyouav ai
    lyoursel
    f
    andoohsweet y..
    .idon’tshare.
    ..
    .i
    fyougive
    what’sminetoanot hertrustmey ou’
    ll
    regret
    i
    t..
    ..
    yourpuni
    shmentwi llbejai
    lfor
    premedit
    atedmur der
    *
    **shef
    rozel
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Drench:IcleanupbutIdon’
    tgetri
    dofthe
    evi
    dencef orthefut
    ureandi
    nsurancesobetr
    ay
    mei nanywayorgi vewhat’
    sminetoanother
    andy ou’
    ll
    feel mywrath
    ***
    heputhi
    sgl
    assdownaf
    tert
    aki
    ngahuge
    gul
    p**
    *
    Drench:stayher
    ef ort
    wonightst
    heny oucan
    gobackt oyourplace.
    ..
    oohandcall
    y ourf
    amil
    y
    backbeforetheyopenami ssi
    ngpersons
    case..
    .r
    emembery oudon’
    tneedt
    hepopost o
    beinvolved
    **
    *hewinkedatherandhewal
    kedoutand
    Moera’
    stear
    srandownhercheeksasshe
    st
    art
    edtoshake***
    Moer
    a:whathav
    eIgot
    tenmy
    sel
    fint
    o
    *
    **sheaskedher
    sel
    fshaki
    ng*
    **

    _
    ___

    ATANUNDI
    SCLOSEDLOCATI
    ON
    ***Themanhel dhisbabyandsmi ledat
    her...
    ..
    Shewasbeaut i
    ful l
    ikehermot her.
    ..
    .Her
    mot herhuh...
    ..
    tearsfil
    ledhiseyesandheputa
    babydummyonhermout handshesuckedwi th
    tearsinherey es..
    ..
    hisey esgotmor et
    earyas
    hel ookedatherandi magesofhi swif
    ebei ng
    kil
    ledflashedhismi ndandt ear
    sdr oppedon
    topoft heblankethewr appedhi sbaby
    with..
    ..
    hegr oanedast hepai nfrom being
    stabbedgotwor seandhesmi l
    edweakl yathis
    baby ***
    Man: Il
    oveyoupri
    ncess.
    ..
    .gr
    owupt obeagood
    andsuccessful
    womanandnev erbowdownt o
    anyoneexceptGodandalwaysacknowledge
    yourancest
    ors.
    ..
    *
    **hechuckl
    edweakl
    y**
    *
    Man: Iguessmeandyourmotherwi
    l
    lal
    sobe
    yourancestor
    ssonev
    erlabel
    usasdemons
    please.
    ..wewillwatchoveryouandpr
    otectyou
    always..
    ..Al
    wayspraytoGodmyangel .
    ..
    be
    strong,neverdoubtyour
    selfandal
    waystrust
    yourinsti
    ncts
    *
    **hecoughedashegotweakerbuthe
    maint
    ainedhi
    sweaksmil
    elooki
    ngather*
    **
    Man:Iprayandhopethemany ourmot
    herwent
    t
    oseecomest oyourrescue.
    ..
    ..
    thef
    act
    ..
    .t
    he
    f
    actthatshewenttoseehi mforhel
    pit
    ..
    .i
    t
    meansshet r
    ustedhim
    *
    **hegr
    oanedast
    hepai
    nmadehi
    m weak*
    **
    Man:Il
    oveyoumyangel
    .
    ...
    Shar
    iana
    Ndoni
    yamanziSi
    mbi
    ne
    ***
    heheldhischi
    ldtohischestwi t
    ht he
    str
    engthhehasleftandhecollapsedonhi s
    backsti
    ll
    holdi
    ngher .
    ..
    .t
    hedoorgotki ckedin
    andinwalkedoneoft hemant hatstabbedhim
    andhesmi l
    edwhenhesawAy andaSi mbine
    andhisdaught
    er..
    ..
    thechil
    dstartedcrying
    hy
    ster
    ical
    l
    yandhel
    aughed*
    **
    Man:wel
    lwell
    wel
    l
    ...
    .y
    out
    houghty
    oucoul
    drun
    f
    rom ushuh
    ***
    Ayandacoughedoutbloodandhetri
    edto
    hol
    dhisdaughtert
    ightt
    ohischestasshe
    cri
    ed*
    **
    Ay
    anda:
    shhhi
    tsokbaby
    **
    *helookedatt
    hepal
    emanwi
    thdar
    key
    es
    weakl
    y***
    Ayanda:
    please.
    ..
    .don’
    thur
    ther
    ..
    ..
    she
    di
    d..
    ..
    nothi
    ngtoyou
    Man:she’
    soursacri
    fice.
    ..
    herbl
    oodmixedwit
    h
    somepotionswi
    llgi
    veourmast eri
    mmense
    powersandherskull
    wi l
    lser
    veasabeauti
    ful
    souv
    eniri
    nhisoffi
    ce
    **
    * hegaveAy
    andaacreepysmi
    lemov i
    nghi
    s
    eyebrowsupanddownandhelaughed**
    *
    Ay
    anda:
    no.
    ..
    please.
    ..
    she.
    ..
    she’
    sjustababy
    Man: noshe’sapowerfult
    ool i
    nourwor l
    d..
    ..
    and
    mast ersai
    dwhomev erbri
    ngshert ohim,hewil
    l
    givethepersonatasteofherspecialbl
    oodand
    thepersonwi l
    lmoveupther anksandIcant
    wait….i
    maginemedi ni
    ngwitht hebi
    gdogsi n
    ourwor l
    d….thosel
    owerrankedf ool
    scall
    i
    ngme
    sir
    ….bowingdownt ome
    **
    *helaughedhappi
    lyandAyandacl
    osedhi
    s
    eyesastear
    sgushedout*
    **
    Ay
    anda:
    please.
    ..
    ***
    themanwal kedcloserandhegrabbedthe
    babyroughl
    ywithhertinyl
    egandlif
    tedherup
    asherheadfaceddown…. Ayandatri
    edtorise
    hi
    sarmt ostopthemanandt hemankicked
    hi
    m andhef l
    ewov erandhitthewal
    lhardand
    hefel
    ltothefl
    oor***
    Man:youugl
    yl i
    tt
    let
    hing..
    ..
    ifi
    twasn’tf
    ormast er
    Iwoul
    dbedr ai
    ningyourbloodri
    ghtnow. .
    ..
    aar
    g
    maybeIshouldandlietohimthatIcouldn’
    t
    l
    ocateyou.
    ..
    .yes..
    ..
    y esIshoulddot hi
    s..
    .y
    our
    bl
    oodsmel l
    sdivine...
    im sureI’
    ll
    getsome
    powersfr
    om drinkingit.
    ..yes.
    ..
    yes
    ***t
    hebabycont inuedt ocr yandAy anda
    openedandcl osedhi sey esashegot
    weaker .
    ..
    .hewant edt osaysomet hi
    ngbuthe
    l
    ostsomuchbl oodandhecoul dseehi s
    end...
    .t
    hemanunwr appedt heblanketont he
    babyandher anhi slongf ingernailonherl ower
    arm scratchingi tsohar dt hatbloodst art
    ed
    comi ngoutoft hescr at ch...
    .hesuckedont he
    bloodonhi sf ingernail andhemoanedl oudas
    thebloodt astedgoodanddi ff
    erentf rom allthe
    bloodhedr anksi ncehebecameaVampi re..
    .i
    t
    hasauni quet ast etoi tanacqui redt astethatis
    addicti
    veandf ulfil
    l
    ing* **
    Man:damntinnyhuman..
    .nowondermaster
    hasbeensearchi
    ngfory
    ouandy ourmother.
    ..
    .
    i
    t’
    sapitysheaskedtobeburnedtoashesifshe
    doesn’
    tmakeitwhil
    egiv
    ingbir
    th.
    ..
    .she
    knew.
    ..
    .buty
    oudon’
    tknowr
    ight
    ***hel aughedt henhel i
    ckedthebl oodonher
    scratchandi mmedi atelyhisfangscameout
    andashewasaboutt obit
    ehert i
    nnyneckhis
    headdet achedf rom hisneckandahandt ook
    thebabyf rom hishandashi sbodyand
    detachedheadf ellt
    ot hefloor
    ..
    ..
    Ay andaopened
    hisey esandsawanot hermanhol dinghi
    sbaby
    gentl
    yi nhisarmst ryingtocalm herdownev en
    thoughhi svi
    sioni sabi tblur
    ry.
    ..
    ..themanwent
    toAy andawi tht hebabyandhecr ouchednext
    tohim* **
    Man:
    hey
    …im sor
    ryi
    mlat
    e
    Ay
    anda:
    mydau.
    ..
    daught
    er
    Man:she’
    ssafe.
    ..
    .she’
    ssti
    ll
    ali
    ve.
    ..
    .i
    m Cast
    iel
    ..
    ..
    i
    don’
    tknowify
    ourwi fet
    oldyouaboutme
    ***
    Ayandaforcedasmil
    eonhisf
    aceandhe
    coughedoutsomebloodgi
    vi
    nginnowthather
    daughteri
    ssafe**
    *
    Ayanda:Shari
    anaNdoniy
    amanzi
    Si
    mbi ne.
    ..
    .t
    hat’
    sher
    ..
    .name
    **
    *thenhesuccumbtohi
    sinjur
    ies.
    ..
    Cast
    iel
    si
    ghedandhelookedatNdoniandshewasno
    l
    ongercry
    ing*
    **
    Casti
    el:
    Ihopeyoumakei
    tNdoni
    causet
    hisi
    s
    farf
    rom over
    ***hegotupandhegr abbedAyanda’
    shandand
    draggedhim outofthehouse..
    ..
    hesetthe
    houseonf ir
    eandhel ookedatAyanda’sdead
    bodyandt hebabyinhi sarms***
    Cast
    iel
    :IguessIhav
    etobur
    ydaddynow
    *
    **hehuf
    fed…af
    terhe’sdonebur
    yingAy
    andahe
    madeacallt
    ohiswife**
    *
    Mpumi
    :heybabyi
    sshesaf
    e
    Cast
    iel
    :yeah….Ei
    shi
    almostdi
    dn’
    tmakei
    ton
    ti
    me
    Mpumi
    :asl
    ongasshe’
    ssaf
    e
    Cast
    iel
    :yeahbutherpar
    ent
    sdi
    dn’
    tmakei
    t
    Mpumi
    :shame….
    didt
    heyhar
    m her
    Cast
    iel
    :thatbast
    ardscr
    atchedhernx…butshe’
    l
    l
    beok
    Mpumi:Ishould’
    vecomewithyou….iwoul
    d’
    ve
    t
    aughthim alessonf
    ir
    stbef
    orekil
    li
    nghim
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    chuckl
    ed*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :l
    ist
    ent
    oyout
    alki
    ngaboutki
    l
    li
    ng
    someone
    Mpumi:mxm wabor
    a….
    hewasgonnabemy
    f
    ir
    stki
    l
    l
    Cast
    iel
    :youknowIdon’
    twanty
    out
    odot
    hat
    unl
    essit
    snecessar
    y…
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpumi
    :yeahy
    eah…any
    wayar
    eyoucomi
    ngwi
    th
    her
    Cast
    iel
    :noIknowsomeoneIt
    rustwho’
    l
    lrai
    se
    herwel
    l….she’
    salsoawitchsoshe’
    ll
    alsoteach
    heronhowt ocontr
    olherpowersandalsoli
    vea
    normall
    if
    e
    Mpumi
    :mmmmhok
    Casti
    el:
    Iknowyouwantedababygirlbutnot
    thi
    sonemyl ov
    e…letswai
    tforTheot
    ohav ea
    babyandwewi l
    lrai
    sehi
    m orherour
    selves
    Mpumi:
    waitf
    orwhatt
    went
    ypl
    usy
    ear
    sfort
    hat
    t
    ohappen….
    yhohae
    Casti
    el:
    you’l
    lnev
    ergrowoldsorel
    axand
    wait
    ….i
    nt hemeanti
    melet
    sf *
    ckandtr
    avelt
    he
    worl
    d
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Mpumi
    :wecan’
    ttr
    avel
    wit
    hTheobaby
    Casti
    el:
    hehashisuncl
    esandaunt
    iestotake
    careofhim…any
    waytheladyi
    sher
    eI’l
    lseeyou
    l
    ater
    Mpumi
    :okIl
    ovey
    ou
    Cast
    iel
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oobaby
    **
    *theyendedt
    hecal
    landCast
    iel
    wai
    tedf
    ort
    he
    woman* **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER29
    .
    .
    .
    ***GazaandAlphaparkedtheircaroutsi
    dehis
    father’
    syar
    dnexttohiscar.
    ..
    .assoonashi s
    fathersawhimtear
    sfil
    ledhi
    sey es..
    .Gazaand
    Alphagotoutofthecarandwal kedtoGaza’s
    father*
    **
    Fat
    her
    :myson
    ***
    hesai
    dtouchi
    nghi
    sfacet
    omakesur
    ehe’
    s
    notdr
    eaming*
    **
    Fat
    her
    :it
    ’sr
    eal
    l
    yyou
    *
    **Gazaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Gaza:
    it’
    sreal
    l
    ymebaba
    ***Hisfatherpul
    ledhimintoat i
    ghthugand
    theyhuggedf eel
    i
    ngemot ionalwhil
    ehisfat
    her’
    s
    tear
    sbet r
    ay edhi
    m andtheyr andownhis
    cheeks…..thenhisfat
    heralsopull
    edAlphaint
    o
    thehugandt het
    hreeofthem hugged***
    .
    .
    .

    I
    NSIDETHECARONTHEI
    RWAYTOTHE
    SANGOMA’SPLACE

    Father
    :Iwanttoaskwhathappenedbuti
    m
    scaredofhear
    ingtheanswer
    **
    *Gazasi
    ghedandAl
    phaj
    ustcont
    inuedt
    o
    dr
    ivesi
    l
    ent
    ly**
    *
    Gaza:j
    ustknowthatyoursi
    ster
    ,hersonandmy
    motheri
    nlawareinvol
    ved
    Fat
    her
    :what
    ..
    .wh.
    ..
    .
    ***
    hesaidshocked...yeshewentt oconsul
    t
    whenhissondi sappearedandt heydi
    dtell
    hi m
    someoneint hefami l
    yisinvolvedinhis
    di
    sappearancebuthenev erthoughtitcoul
    dbe
    hi
    sbelovedsister.
    ..
    .Shewast heoneconsoling
    him andchecki ngonhi m andal
    sohelpi
    nghim
    “search”forhisson…. hewassuspect
    inghis
    half-
    brotherallthi
    stimecausetheydon’tget
    alongorhav eanysi bl
    ingsrel
    ati
    onshi
    p
    whatsoev er*
    **
    Fat
    her
    :that
    ..
    .t
    hatcan’
    tbe
    Gaza:wel
    ltheycametoseemewher eIwas
    ki
    dnappedexceptforMduof coursethat
    ’showI
    knewtheyaretheonesresponsible
    ***hi
    sfatherswall
    owedhar dwit
    hhi sheart
    beati
    ngf ast.
    ..
    hecoul
    dn’tbel
    iev
    ewhathej ust
    heard.
    ..
    .helookedoutsi
    dethewi ndowlostin
    thought
    s. .
    ..
    aft
    ersometi
    meAl phaspoke* *
    *
    Alpha:babai
    sthi
    stheshor
    tlef
    twear
    e
    supposedtotake
    *
    **Gaza’
    sfat
    hercl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Fat
    her
    :ye.
    ..
    yes
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    pingsweatf
    rom hi
    sfor
    ehead.
    ..
    .he
    couldn’tbeli
    evehisbel
    ovedsist
    erdidthistohi
    s
    son...
    .I
    nhi smindhewasov erplayi
    ngallthe
    ti
    mesheshowedconcer nandev encri
    edwhen
    shesawt hestat
    ehewasi n..
    .Hecouldn’
    t
    beli
    eveshewasf aki
    ngital
    l**
    *
    Alpha:st
    opovert
    hinki
    ngt
    hingsbabaory
    ouwi
    l
    l
    sufferast
    rokeorhear
    tat
    tack
    ***Gaza’
    sfathersighedwipingsweatf
    rom hi
    s
    foreheadagain….
    thef i
    ghthehadwithhishal
    f-
    brotherwhenhef alsel
    yaccusedhim…..
    what
    hashedone“het hought”**
    *
    Father
    : Icant..
    ..Icantbel
    ievethepersonItr
    ust
    andalsor aisedist heoneresponsi
    bleformy
    misery…..Godwhy ….how….
    ***
    heswall
    owedhar
    dandunbut
    tonedt
    het
    op
    butt
    onsofhi
    sshi
    rt*
    **
    Fat
    her
    :she.
    ..
    Gaza:youdidn’
    tknowtat
    ane..
    ..
    andyoudi
    dtel
    l
    mey ourai
    sedheraft
    eryourparent
    sdi
    edso
    kuriyenashechoset obeev i
    li
    snoty our
    faul
    t..
    ..
    .somepeoplearebor nl
    ikethat,t
    heyjust
    needsomet hi
    ngt
    otriggert
    hatev i
    lsideofthem
    forthem toshowyouwhot heyreal
    lyare..
    ..
    so
    stopbeat i
    ngyour
    selfaboutit
    ***
    sil
    encef
    il
    edt
    hecar
    ..
    ..
    aft
    ersomet
    imeAl
    pha
    spoke**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    doIcont
    inuet
    ogost
    rai
    ght
    Father:
    noturnr
    ightandabl
    uemainhouseon
    yourlef
    thandsi
    dewi t
    hmanyroundov
    alsi
    nsi
    de
    theyardiswher
    ewear egoi
    ng
    Gaza:
    Ican’
    twai
    ttoseeandhol
    dmyson
    Fat
    her:Itol
    dyouryoungersistertokeephim
    i
    nsidethehouseunt i
    lweleave..
    ..
    theSangoma
    sai
    dy oucantholdhim unt
    ilyou’
    re
    cl
    eansed…he’stooinnocent
    **
    *Gazajustkeptquiet
    ..
    .hewonderedifgett
    ing
    cl
    eansedwillbeenought ohel
    phim..
    ..
    aftera
    whil
    etheysawt hehouseandAl phaparked
    outsi
    detheyardandhesi ghed.
    ..
    .hecouldfeel
    hisancest
    orscloserwhichmeanst heywantto
    comeout .
    ..
    hestartedburpi
    ngwithawei r
    d
    scarysoundcomi ngoutofhismout h*
    **
    Gaza:
    arey
    ouok
    Al
    pha:
    mmh
    ***hegotoutoft hecarandGazaandhi sfather
    foll
    owed....
    Gazakeptlookingathi sbrother
    wonder i
    ngwhathewast hinking,theAl phahe
    knowst alksalotbutev ersincehear ri
    vedt his
    sideespeciall
    ysincethismor ninghe’sbeen
    quiet.
    ..
    wayt ooquietforhisl i
    king..
    ..
    .Closerto
    thegateundert hebigtreei nsidethey ardan
    oldmanandhi sinit
    iat
    egotupandwal kedt o
    thegate..
    .greet
    ingsareexchangedbet weent he
    sangomaandt heguest sandt heini
    tiatelayson
    hissideont hegroundandcl appedhi shands
    together*
    * *
    I
    nit
    iat
    e:Thokozani
    banul
    abankul
    u
    Them:
    Thokoza
    I
    nit
    iat
    e:mi
    njani
    Them:
    hai
    hipf
    uki
    l
    ewenaunj
    ani
    I
    nit
    iat
    e:nameheni
    pfuki
    l
    e
    **
    *hegotupanddust edhi
    mselfandheknel
    t
    onthef
    loorlookingdownandtheoldman
    l
    ookedatAlphalett
    eandhenodded***
    Sangoma:
    theyar
    eclosedon’tpr
    eventt
    hem
    fr
    om comi
    ngouttogreetus
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    l
    ingathi
    m andAl
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Sangoma:Mabundayoucangoinsi
    dewit
    h
    Mkhuluher
    e….
    hisancest
    orsar
    eimpati
    ent
    ***hel
    ookedatGazaandhi
    sexpr
    essi
    on
    changed.
    ..
    .henowhadaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    s
    face**
    *
    Sangoma:buty
    oustaybehi
    ndIneedt
    otal
    kto
    youbefor
    eyouent
    er
    ***
    Gazaret
    urnedt
    heser
    iousl
    ookandhe
    nodded*
    **
    Sangoma:
    Mahl
    ebezul
    u
    I
    nit
    iat
    e:babaa
    Sangoma:
    taket
    hem i
    nsi
    de
    **
    *Mahlebezul
    ucl
    appedhi
    shandst
    oget
    herand
    hegotup***
    Mahl
    ebezul
    u:f
    oll
    owmepl
    ease
    *
    **Gaza’
    sfat
    herandAl
    phaf
    oll
    owed
    Mahl
    ebezul
    uandtheol
    dmanstoodther
    e
    l
    ooki
    ngatGaza***
    Sangoma:youwill
    notent
    ermyy
    ardwi
    tht
    hat
    thi
    ngbehi
    ndy ou
    *
    **Gazadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Sangoma:t
    ell
    itt
    oremainoutsi
    detheyar
    d
    al
    ongwitht
    hatdarkcl
    oudoveryourhead
    *
    **Gazaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Gaza:
    i
    ...
    idon’
    tknowhow
    Sangoma:butyety
    ouwannakeepi
    t.
    ..
    .y
    oudon’
    t
    wanttogetri
    dofit
    **
    *Gazadidn’
    tsayanyt
    hingandt
    hefi
    gur
    etook
    astepcl
    oserandtheSangomamovedbacka
    bi
    t***
    Sangoma:
    youbet
    ternott
    ryi
    tdemon
    *
    **i
    tstoodst
    il
    lfaci
    nghi
    m andt
    hesangoma
    l
    ookedatGaza***
    Sangoma:useyouri
    nnerv
    oicet
    otal
    ktoi
    t.
    ..
    .we
    don’
    thaveall
    day
    *
    **Gazal
    ookedatthesangomaandsighed
    t
    henhespokewit
    hhisinnervoi
    ce*
    **
    Gaza:“st
    ayoutsidet
    hisgate.
    ..
    .iwon’
    tgetri
    dof
    youIjustwanttobecleansedsoIcangiveyou
    thechil
    dyouwantwi t
    hherandt otouchand
    hugmyson”
    *
    **hef
    eltt
    ingl
    esal
    lov
    erhi
    sbodyandhe
    gr
    owl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    “cal
    mthef
    *ckdown!
    !!
    ”
    Voi
    ce:“
    ify
    ougetri
    dofmeI’l
    lki
    ll
    yourson
    bef
    oreIev
    apor
    ate.
    ..
    keept
    hatinmind”
    ***avoicei
    nsidehisheadspokeandt het
    ingl
    es
    stoppedasitmov edawayf r
    om him sodi
    dthe
    darkcloud.
    ..
    .Gazaswallowedhardandhe
    breathedout***
    Sangoma:
    Thokozani
    !!
    !
    ***hecalledanotheri
    nit
    iat
    eandi nstructedhim
    tobringt hebucketwi
    thwat erinsidemi xedwi t
    h
    tradi
    tionalmuthiandhistr
    aditi
    onal (Letshobo)
    thentheyhear dadeepscaryscr eam insidethe
    sangoma’ sndomba(ancest r
    al hut)***
    Gaza:
    whatt
    hehel
    l
    Sangoma:t
    hat
    ’syourbr
    other
    ..
    .hisancest
    orsar
    e
    nowreadyf
    orhimtoseeeverythi
    ngyouwent
    thr
    ough
    Gaza:
    what
    ..
    ..
    whynow.
    ..
    eish
    *
    **t
    hesangomachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Sangoma:he’
    sgonnaseeevery
    thingyouwent
    thr
    ough.
    ..
    he’
    sgonnaknowev er
    ythinganddon’
    t
    worryMahl
    ebezul
    uknowshowt ohandle
    mekwembu(ancestor
    s)
    Gaza:
    damni
    t
    *
    **hesai
    diti
    nawhisperbutl
    oudenoughf
    or
    t
    hesangomatohear
    ***
    Sangoma:
    damni
    tindeed
    **
    *hechuckledshaki
    nghisheadandt heini
    tiat
    e
    br
    oughtthebucketandhesprinkl
    edthewat er
    onGazausinghisLetshobo(
    ishobo)
    ** *
    Sangoma: andbef
    orey ouent
    erthi
    syard
    rel
    easet hatboy.
    ..
    ..
    .y
    oucantkidnapanother
    manj ustbecausehel i
    kesawomany oualso
    l
    ike.
    ..
    .thatsbeingacowar dmyboy
    *
    **Gaza’
    sey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Sangoma: f
    ightforherl
    ovet heri
    ghtwaycause
    oneoftheseday sherancestorswil
    lwarnher
    aboutyouandy ourshenanigansandtrustme
    youwilll
    oseher..
    ..
    shewillwantnothi
    ngt odo
    wit
    hy ou
    **
    *Gazaswall
    owedhardasher
    emember
    edt
    he
    dr
    eam shehadabouthi
    m***
    Sangoma:she’sgi
    ft
    ed.
    ..
    .neverunder
    est
    imat
    e
    her.
    ..
    ..
    shesavedyoudi
    dn’tshe.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedandhet
    ookouthi
    sphoneand
    madeacall
    ***
    Voi
    ce:
    bossman
    ***
    Gazacl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oatl
    ooki
    ngatt
    he
    Sangoma*
    **
    Gaza:r
    eleasehi
    m andr
    ememberwhatwe
    t
    alkedabout
    Man:
    yes….Usehi
    sbr
    otherasbai
    t
    Gaza:
    yes….
    tel
    lhi
    mifhi
    sbr
    otherdoesn’
    tleav
    e
    myterri
    toryhisparent
    sandhissibl
    i
    ngswi l
    l
    meettheirending….makeal
    lofthem shake
    wit
    hfearTaboo…showmewhaty oucan
    do…impressme
    *
    **Tabool
    aughed*
    **
    Taboo:r
    ogert
    hatbossman….
    letmei
    mpress
    you….
    it
    snicet
    ohaveyoubackbossman….
    im
    happy
    ***theyendedthecal
    landGazaclearedhi
    s
    throatasthesangomajustshookhishead
    disappoint
    ed**
    *
    Sangoma:youknowt
    her
    eal
    reasony
    ou
    ki
    dnappedhim….
    Gaza:i
    m ki
    ll
    ingt
    wobir
    dswi thonestone…i
    t’
    sa
    pi
    tyIknewabouthi
    sbrotherwhenIdida
    backgr
    oundcheckonhim causehe’
    sinter
    est
    ed
    i
    nwhat ’
    smine
    Sangoma:
    cowar
    d
    Gaza:i
    mimpr
    ovi
    sing….
    Tshi
    moi
    smi
    neand
    mineal
    one
    Sangoma: yetyouwanthertocarryademon
    shapeshif
    ter’
    sbaby…..ontopofthatyoudid
    unspeakablethi
    ngssomei nhername...j
    ust
    prayshedoesn’tfi
    ndoutaboutanyoft hose
    thi
    ngs..
    ..
    noonei nthei
    rsanemindwi l
    loverl
    ook
    them
    *
    **Gazaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Sangoma:itwontbeaneasyroad...
    .t
    he
    questi
    onyoushouldaskyour
    selfis.
    ..
    ..
    wil
    lher
    ancest
    orsall
    owittohappen.
    ..
    .wil
    ltheyaccept
    younah
    ***
    hepoint
    edathim andhewalkedinsi
    dethe
    yar
    dhummi ngasongandGazaf oll
    owedhim
    whil
    ethedemon/shapeshi
    ft
    erstoodther
    e
    watchi
    ng**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    “showherthi
    slov
    ehumanst hi
    nksis
    morei
    mportantt
    hanwealt
    h..
    ..
    .makehert
    he
    cent
    reofyouruniver
    se.
    ...
    showerherwith
    moneyandgift
    s...
    humansl ov
    ethatespeciall
    y
    women..
    ..
    andy oushall
    seeshewi l
    lneverleave
    you”
    Gaza:
    “shutup”
    **
    *hesai
    dwi t
    hhi
    sinnerv
    oicecl
    osi
    nghi
    sey
    es
    ashesuddenl
    yhadaheadache*
    **
    Voice:“Iwantababywi t hher..
    ..t
    hosechi l
    dren
    willhavebot hpureanddar kbloodwi thin
    them. .
    ..
    .Theywi l
    lgrowmyl ineage...
    ev eni fyou
    dieandIev aporat
    emyl i
    neagewi ll
    nev erdie..
    .i
    t
    willgoonf rom generationtogener ationand
    remembert hepoweri m givingt oyou, the
    weal t
    h….Noonewi l
    leverdar ey ou….y ouar e
    nowoneoft hestrongestpeopl ealive…. i
    know
    youcanf eelthepowerwi t
    hiny ou….itsaddi cti
    ve
    Iknowsogi v
    emewhatIwantandy ou’ l
    lalways
    getwhaty oudesire…it
    ’sawi nwi nsituat i
    on”
    Gaza:
    “st
    opi
    tyou’
    regi
    vi
    ngmeaheadache
    damni
    t”
    *
    **hesai
    dwithhi
    sinnervoi
    cest
    oppi
    ngonhi
    s
    t
    racksashehel
    dhishead**
    *
    Voi ce: “
    theywillnevergetridofmysonsand
    daught ersshe’sgonnagi vebi r
    thtocause
    get ti
    ngr idofthem wi l
    lkil
    lthem wher eel
    sewith
    mei t’
    sadi ff
    erentst or
    ysoy oubetternoteven
    thinkofget t
    ingridofmecausey ouknowwhat
    will happenhuman. ..
    .iwontev apor
    ate
    alone. ..
    .i
    m gonnat akeev er
    y thi
    ngandev ery
    one
    youhol ddearwi thme…meandy ouareone
    alway sremembert hat”
    Gaza:
    stopi
    t!
    !!
    !
    ***hesai
    dshout i
    ngoutloudandbloodcame
    outofhisnoseandhebendhol di
    nghisknees
    feeli
    ngweak..
    ..
    thesangomar ushedtohim***
    Voi
    ce:
    Ifor
    gothumanspeci
    esar
    eweak
    **
    *hehuf
    fedastheycar
    riedGazai
    nsi
    det
    he
    Ndomba(ancest
    ralhut
    )andassoonashi
    s
    fat
    hersawhim hequickl
    ygotupbutt
    he
    sangomastoppedhim* *
    *
    Voice:“y
    oul ov
    eourchosenoneandIaccept
    herfull
    y.
    ..
    ..
    doy ouknowthatshewasbetrothed
    toyourbrother.
    ..
    ..
    yourbr
    otherwassupposedto
    mar r
    yhertopayof fadebtmadebyy our
    uselessancestor”
    ***t
    hev oi
    celaughedandGazascr eamedashe
    heldhisheadast heheadachegotwor se.
    ..
    the
    sangomami xedMpepho(sage)andsome
    tr
    aditi
    onalmedici
    neandhebur nedt hem and
    blewthem onGaza’ sf
    acechanti
    ngsomewor ds
    ***
    Voice:”buty ourbrotheralreadyhashissoul
    mat eandhel ovesherdear lypl
    ushisfather
    wasgonnamakesur et hatweddingnever
    happenssohemadey oumeetheri nst
    ead
    but..
    ..
    butherf atherwanthert omar ryyour
    brotherinsteadf orhi
    sownsel fi
    sh
    reasons...
    that’swhyhewaschar medbyher
    whent heymet….you’
    renotoffthehookyet
    ,her
    fat
    herwant shertomar r
    yhim notyouandwe
    can’
    tletthathappen….never
    ”
    ***t
    hedemonsaidangri
    lyandt
    heconnect
    ion
    gotcutof
    fasGazapassedoutandt
    he
    sangomasighed*
    **
    Sangoma:
    yeses
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandl
    ookedatMahl
    ebezul
    u**
    *
    Sangoma:
    ishest
    il
    li
    nat
    ransmode
    Mahl
    ebezul
    u:y
    ebobaba
    Fat
    her
    :what
    ’shappeni
    ngwi
    thmysons
    ***heaskedshaki ng.
    ...
    lookingwor r
    iedand
    scaredatthesamet i
    me. .
    ..
    thesangomal ooked
    atAlphal
    etteashesatt her
    eont hegr assmat
    withhisl
    egscr ossedandat radi
    ti
    onal cl
    oth
    coveri
    nghiscrossedl egsandhi sarms
    str
    etchedforwardwi t
    hhi shandsr esti
    ngonhi s
    kneesfaci
    ngf orwardwi thhiseyesopened. .
    ..
    his
    eyeshav echangedcol ournow, theylooklike
    thatofasnake…scar y….andhi sforeheadl ooks
    deformedl ikeitgrewat hickerroughski nwi t
    h
    scalesoni t...
    youcouldseehewasn’ there
    spir
    ituall
    y...
    hedi dn’
    tmov eorbl i
    nk…itwasan
    amazi ngsightt oseeforthesangoma…. hewas
    extr
    emel yimpr essedcausehehasnev erseen
    somet hinglikethiswithhisowney es.Heonl y
    heardabouti tfr
    om hiseldersthattherear e
    peoplewi thgi f
    tsli
    keAlpha’sinthiswor l
    dand
    theyar erare* *
    *
    Sangoma: Mkhuluher
    eisoktheyareshowing
    him whathi
    sbr ot
    herwentthr
    oughandother
    thi
    ngsandt hi
    sonewillal
    sobeok
    **
    *Gaza’
    sfatherswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandhewi ped
    sweatal
    loverhisf
    aceusi
    nghi
    sjacket
    ***
    Fat
    her:
    theseboyswi
    ll
    kil
    lmewi t
    hhear
    tat
    tack
    oneoftheseday
    sIsweartheywi
    ll
    Sangoma:
    stopt
    alki
    ngaboutdeat
    handgot
    ake
    yourwi
    fef
    rom t
    hatcol
    our
    edf
    ool
    .
    ..she’
    snot
    happy
    Father
    :don’
    tst
    art.
    ..
    notnowassombl
    i
    ef.
    ..
    thi
    sis
    nottheti
    meman
    Sangoma: mxm st opbeingacowar dandgo
    takeyourwifefrom thatfool.
    ..
    .t
    hat’
    st he
    i
    nstruct
    iongivent oyoubyy ourbrotherbefor
    e
    hediedtomar ryherbutwenaMrf aithfulman
    withpri
    nci
    plesdi dn’
    twantt otakeasecondwi fe
    causeitwil
    lhurty ournowdeadwi fe…Ididwarn
    youanere
    Fat
    her
    :st
    opi
    tok
    **
    *hesai
    dthr
    oughhi
    scl
    enchedt
    eet
    hlooki
    ngat
    hi
    ssons*
    **
    Sangoma:
    doesy oursonknowwhohi
    smot
    her
    di
    edwithi
    nthatcar
    *
    **MrMabundaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    Sangoma:
    yourbr
    otheri
    sdi
    sappoi
    ntedi
    nyou
    Mabundat hat’
    swhyal lthewomeny oudat
    ed
    andwant edtomar rycheatedandlef
    t
    you….ev
    ennowy ou’refaci
    ngthesame
    predi
    camentaner e….shehasstart
    edbei
    ng
    shadyanere
    ***
    MrMabundaswal
    l
    owedhar
    dlooki
    ng
    down*
    **
    Sangoma:t
    heonlywomanyourbr
    otherwil
    ll
    et
    youmarr
    yishersomakepeacewit
    hit.
    ..
    .
    Sangoma:
    youweref
    aithf
    ult
    oasnakeandl eta
    goodwomangetmarr
    iedtoanot
    hersnake
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Sangoma: i
    tsnott oolat
    e..
    ..
    thi
    sti
    mear oundshe
    wil
    lleavehi m causeshe’shadenoughofhi m
    andt hatbratshebi r
    thedthatt
    ookafterhis
    fat
    her .
    ..
    .i
    twillmaket heseboyshappytrustme
    ***
    MrMabundaswal
    l
    owedhar
    dandhekept
    qui
    et*
    **
    _
    ___

    ATDORI
    SAPARTMENT

    AusVee:
    orengwena(whatar
    eyousay
    ing)
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    mt el
    li
    ngy ouausVee.
    ..
    Khaiwal
    kedoutof
    t
    hatbathr
    oom andwhenweaskedhi m gor
    e
    whyhewentint her
    etotal
    ktohisfat
    herar
    ei t
    j
    ashi
    shkri
    ts(it
    ’sasecret
    )imagi
    ne
    **
    *theyl
    aughedastheyfoldedthei
    rwashed
    cl
    othessit
    ti
    nginthelounge..
    ..
    .Dor
    isandKhai
    ar
    esleepi
    ngandMasai issti
    lli
    nhospit
    al*
    **
    Hill
    s:Masai
    ar ehe’
    sweir
    dtheseday
    s..
    ..
    he
    keepsontal
    kingaboutMkhul
    uthi
    sandMkhul
    u
    that
    AusVee:whyarey
    ousur
    pri
    sed.
    ..
    hisf
    atherke
    thokozaMkhul
    uaker
    e
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yeahIguessmay
    beheal
    sohasagi
    ft
    AusVee:mmmmhmar aeishhe’
    sst i
    l
    lyoung
    bat
    hong..
    ..
    lethopehisfat
    herwil
    l hel
    phim orba
    bari
    begeunt i
    lhe’
    soldenough..
    ..yah
    somethi
    ngl i
    kethat
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    theycandot
    hat
    AusVee:Idon’
    tknow..
    .i
    m notsureakerewe
    hearpeopl
    etalki
    ngsoyou’l
    lneverknowifba
    buannete(theyaret
    ell
    ingthetr
    uth)ornot
    *
    **shesai
    dshr
    uggi
    ng*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:haihe’
    swaytooyoungt
    obeseei
    ngbo
    Mkhulu.
    ..
    mypoorKhai
    AusVee:Ibel
    iev
    epapagweotli
    l
    egomot husa
    sodon’tworr
    y(hisf
    atherwi
    l
    lhelphi
    m sodon’
    t
    worr
    y)
    Hi
    ll
    s:mmh. .
    .I
    m happyforMasai gor
    eshegot
    pr
    egnantbyar esponsi
    blemanlike
    Al
    pha.
    ..
    .eventhoughherpregnancywashorr
    ibl
    e
    andkamoshedi dn’thaveanysuppor tfr
    om
    him becauseitwasaonceof ft
    hingbutassoon
    astheymetagai n,Alphatookresponsibi
    li
    tyand
    he’sanamazi ngfatherandpartnert
    o
    them...
    .i
    m happyforher..
    .shealsodeservesto
    behappy
    AusVee:mmmmh. ...
    ther
    ewer eti
    meswher eI
    thoughtshewon’ tmakei t.
    ..
    .shefoughtforKhai
    tobebor nalive.
    ..
    iremembert hedoct or
    st old
    hertoabor tthebabycauset heymi ghtbothdie
    andshest oodhergr oundandsai dno. .
    ..
    .y
    ho
    Masai otl
    ar eodi boneshem (y hoMasai has
    beenthroughal otshame) .
    ..
    andnowMoer ao
    tl
    akamot etewagonkganxa. .
    ..
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hil
    ls:
    yhoMoerawanst r
    essaausVee(Yho
    Moeraisstr
    essi
    ngmeausVee)andnowshe’ s
    notevenanswer
    ingourcall
    sandshe’snoteven
    atherapar
    tment..
    .kegoreshedoesn’
    tcar
    e
    abouthowworri
    edwear eabouther.
    ..
    whatif
    she’
    shur
    torshehar
    msher
    sel
    f.
    ..
    eish
    AusVee:she’
    ll
    nev erhar
    m hersel
    fthat
    one..
    ..
    she’
    dratherharm someoneelsebutnot
    hersel
    f.
    ..
    ..
    kamor ataMoer abutwhatshedidt
    o
    Masai
    *
    **sheshookherhead*
    **
    AusVee:befor
    eDoriswentt
    otakeanaptoday
    shegotatextf
    rom herareori
    ghtonal
    ethat
    col
    ouredguyDori
    sbeatup
    *
    **sheshr
    ughershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wai
    tyoumeanEl
    ex’
    sbr
    other
    *
    **ausVeenodded*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    amen
    *
    **sheshookherheadi
    ndi
    sbel
    i
    eve*
    **
    Hill
    s:maybehe’shel
    pinghertrackdownthe
    personresponsi
    blef
    ortheleakedrecor
    dingand
    story
    AusVee:
    butDor
    isi
    sdoi
    ngt
    hesamet
    hingmos
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    aki
    tsi
    ge(Idon’
    tknowt
    hen*
    **
    ***She’swor r
    iedaboutMoer aandshe’shur t
    she’
    signor i
    ngherl i
    kethi
    s..
    ..
    she’
    swonder ing
    whyMoer aisnotleani
    ngonherf orsuppor tl
    i
    ke
    shealway sdoeswhenshe( Hil
    l
    s)leansonher
    whenev ershegoest hr
    ought hi
    ngs..
    .i
    tpainsher
    deeply
    ....
    ..
    AnywayDor i
    swalkedinsidethe
    l
    oungel impingandshesatdownont hecouch
    thenshegr oanedinpainanddecidedt olay
    downi nstead***
    AusVee:andthenwena.
    ..
    keng.
    ..
    otswil
    eskaku
    moleragong(whatswrongwit
    hy ou.
    ..
    doyou
    haveaboilonyourbum)
    Dor
    is:
    eishemany
    anal
    wenaVeeman(ei
    shnot
    nowVeeman)
    AusVee:
    emanyanay
    aeng...
    .orkedipi
    l
    es
    (whatdoyoumeannotnow...
    ori
    sitpi
    les)
    *
    **Dor
    isl
    ookedatHi
    l
    ls*
    **
    Dori
    s:tsamokoropapai vi
    ngkont l
    ekwaot l
    abe
    wautlwadit
    abatsabat hobabagol o(goand
    mopt hepavementoutsideIdon’twantyou
    l
    ist
    eningtooldpeopl
    e’
    sconv ersati
    ons)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    bat
    hongmama
    *
    **Veel
    aughed*
    **
    Doris:keng...
    tl
    abeoreimtraumatizi
    ngy ouso
    tsamopent aceil
    i
    nggehkokamor engsince
    kontlegwaf i
    sa(what
    ..
    .t
    henextthingyou’l
    lsay
    i
    mt r
    aumat izi
    ngyousogoandpai nttheceil
    i
    ng
    i
    nt hebedr oom si
    ncei
    tshotoutsi
    de)
    ***
    Veecontinuedtolaughhera$$offandHil
    ls
    rol
    ledherey
    esandshegotupt aki
    ngherphone
    andwenttot hebedr
    oom* *
    *
    AusVee:wabor
    aHunadi.
    ..
    mmmhbothatakeng
    (youaretoomuchHunadi
    ..
    .mmhwhat
    ’sthe
    matter
    )
    Dori
    s:ei
    shwenaVee. ..
    .Mazwakheonjelekamo
    moragowena. .
    ..
    analVee.
    ..
    yhobot
    lhokoboke
    boutl
    wang(y hoMazwakhef *
    ck*dmeont he
    ot
    herhole.
    ..
    .an*lVee.
    ..
    yhothepai
    nimf eel
    ing)
    *
    **Veebust
    edoutwi
    thl
    oudl
    aught
    er*
    **
    Dori
    s:don’
    tlaugh.
    ..
    .i
    minpai
    nwenawat
    shega
    (andyou’r
    elaughi
    ng)
    Vee:bef
    orebagofakukuyaf ake(befor
    eyou
    weregiv
    enafakep*ssy)youwer eonceaman
    sowhycantyouhandlean*l
    Doris:kukuyafakekedi
    chubabatseoonal
    eng
    tsona( afakep*
    ssyaret
    hosedarkblemi
    shes
    ony ourface)
    AusVee:
    wannyel
    aakesanadi
    chubabanna
    (p*ssof
    fIdon’
    thav
    edar
    kblemi
    shes)
    Doris:
    mxm t henkukuyafakekemokhinooo
    (thenaf akep*ssyi
    sthatgapofmi
    ssingteet
    h
    youhav e)
    *
    **Veegotupandshewentcl
    osert
    oher
    ***
    Dor
    is:
    Veei
    m war
    ningy
    ou
    ***Veegrabbedherandpushedhi
    sindexfi
    nger
    betweenherbuttcheeksandDori
    s
    screamed..
    ..
    shepokedheragaint
    hroughher
    l
    eggingsandDor i
    sscreamedagai
    n..
    .Hil
    l
    s
    rushedinandshestopped**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    keng.
    ..aahmxm
    *
    **sher
    oll
    edherey
    esbor
    ed*
    **
    Dor
    is:
    Veewampol
    ayaman(y
    ou’
    reki
    l
    li
    ngme
    man)
    Vee:
    eresor
    ry(saysor
    ry)
    Dor
    is:
    sor
    ry.
    ..
    .sor
    rybat
    hong
    *
    **shel
    etgoofherandHi
    l
    lsr
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:Iforgothowchi
    ldishyoutwocanbe
    mxm...
    .keepitdownpleaseKhaii
    ssti
    l
    lsl
    eepi
    ng
    *
    **shewentbackt
    othebedr
    oom andVeewent
    towashherfi
    ngerint
    hebathroom andshe
    camebackandshesatbackdownand
    cont
    inuedt
    ofoldthecl
    othes*
    **
    Dori
    s:ei
    shgwababanow.
    ..
    maraVeeoswil
    e
    pel
    oshem (ei
    shit
    smorepai
    nful
    now.
    ..
    butVee
    youhavecol
    dhear
    tshame)
    AusVee:
    youdeser
    vedi
    t
    Dori
    s:mxm.
    ..
    .any
    wayei
    sht
    hatmanr
    avagedme
    wenaVee
    AusVee:
    that
    ’swhaty
    ougetf
    oropeni
    ngy
    our
    l
    egsforamarri
    edman
    Dori
    s:hai
    sukamar
    ri
    edmany
    aeng.
    ..
    .hewas
    minefi
    rst
    AusVee:andnowhebel
    ongst
    ovaspl
    anka
    (a$$l
    ess)
    *
    **Dor
    isr
    oll
    edherey
    es*
    **
    Dor
    is:shedoesn’
    tdeser
    vehim.
    ..
    she’
    sev en
    makinghimrai
    seanotherman’
    schil
    drenmxm
    AusVee: sesesalangkethewi f
    el al
    a(att he
    endoft hedayshe’sthewifelal
    a)...
    ..
    icant
    bel
    ieveoj ajaMoera(you’r
    ejudgingMoer a)for
    dati
    ngmar ri
    edmenwhi l
    eyou’rebeingf *
    ck*dby
    one..
    .doublestandar
    dsHunadi .
    ..
    .youneedt o
    checky oursel
    f
    Dor
    is:
    mxm wabor
    a(y
    ouar
    eabor
    e)
    *
    **shegotupsl
    owl
    y**
    *
    Doris:korobala.
    ..
    .Im goingtodri
    nkpai
    nkil
    l
    ers
    andasl eepi
    ngpi l
    lmay beI’
    llwakeupmosobao
    tswall
    egil
    elepainedi dimetse(myan*lhole
    closedandt hepaingone)
    *
    **Veel
    aughed*
    **
    Dor
    is:l
    wenaot
    lomokerey
    amonnaagony
    *be
    mot*t
    *ooandI
    ’
    lll
    aughaty
    ouunt
    ilol
    l
    a
    *
    **Veecont
    inuedt
    olaughhera$$of
    f**
    *
    Vee:nnaminei
    smadet otakeash*tandtofar
    t
    notgonny*
    biw*kebakgal
    abebadibisexual
    ba
    got
    shwar
    aketshukir
    i(togetf*
    ck*dbyold
    menwhoarebi
    sexualandhavediabet
    es)
    Dori
    s:mxm waphaphawenalemokhi
    no(y
    ou
    ar
    eforwar
    dwenawi t
    hmissi
    ngteet
    h)
    *
    **Veel
    aughed*
    **
    Vee:
    goandsl
    eeporI
    ’
    llpokey
    ouagai
    n
    **shesaidattemptingt ogetupandDor i
    s
    rushedtoherbedr oom andVeel aughed..
    ..
    aft
    er
    shewasdoneshet ookt heclothest othe
    bedroomsandshepackedt hem ni cel
    yinthe
    cupboardsthenshet ookKhai from Dor i
    s’
    sbed
    andshewentt oputheri nthebedr oom she’
    s
    usingcausesheknowst hatonceDor i
    sdr i
    nks
    hersleepi
    ngpi l
    lsshewonthearhi m whenhe
    wakesup. .
    ..
    shedeci dedt oalsot akeanap* **
    .
    .
    .
    ***Hill
    si snowsi tt
    ingi nthel ounger eplyi
    ngt o
    heremai ls.
    ...
    Sheownsabeaut ysalonandt hree
    bout i
    quesi nGaut eng, she’sdoinggoodf or
    herselfandi t
    sal lthankst oDor iswhoadopt ed
    heraf terhert wincommi tt
    edsui cidewhent hey
    weredoi nggr ade12t heywer ebot horphans
    whogr ewupi nt hesy stem (or phanage)...
    .She
    stopsr epl y
    ingt oheremai lsandhermi ndtakes
    hert oami raclethathappenedt ohery ears
    back....I
    twasami raclet hatshewasbest
    fr
    iendswi thMasai andMoer aandDor is
    decidedt oadoptherwhenhehear dher
    story..
    ...
    Shewasr eadyt odi ewi t
    hhert win
    Mhl ababutf atehadasur pri
    sef orherandt he
    surprisei sDor i
    s...
    .Shesmi l
    esasshet hinksof
    howf ortunateshehasbeensi ncet hatdayshe
    wast ol dsomeonewant st oadopther .

    Shecouldn’
    tbeli
    evethatsomeonewant
    edto
    adoptherinherage,
    sheev ent
    houghti
    twasa
    prankandt ot opital lMasai andMoer a
    acceptedheraspar tofthef ami l
    ywhent he
    adopt i
    onpr ocessbecamesuccessf ul .
    ...
    Itwas
    ami racleforherandshe’ sgr atefulthatMasai
    andMoer at oldDor isaboutherpr edicament s
    andDor i
    ssav edherf rom her selfcauseshe
    wasr eadyt otakeherl i
    fet of oll
    owher
    twin..
    ..
    .andnowi fshewasn’ tst rongenoughor
    hadt hest rongsuppor tsy stem shehas, she
    wasgonnagot hroughwhathert winwent
    through....
    .putti
    ngamanbef oreher self.
    ...l
    ovi
    ng
    amansomucht hatshecanti magi nelife
    withouthi m. .
    ..
    .orev ent akingherl i
    fef oraman
    j
    ustl i
    kehert windi d..
    ..Shesi ghedasshe
    thoughtofherl atet win..
    .thepai nisstillthere
    andshest illmissesherdear ly..
    .Aknockont he
    doordi sturbhert rainoft hought sandsheget s
    upandgot oseewhoi ti
    sandshegott he
    shockofherl i
    fe***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Tar
    ..
    .howdi
    dyou.
    ..
    Tarek:
    thankGodyou’r
    et heonethatanswered
    thedoor….
    yourmotherscarest
    hesh* toutof
    me
    *
    **hesai
    dchuckl
    i
    ngner
    vousl
    y**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:whatarey
    oudoi
    nghere.
    ..
    howdi
    dyouf
    ind
    me.
    ..wai
    t.
    ..
    arey
    oust
    alki
    ngme
    Tarek:
    howcany
    ousayt
    hat
    ..
    .y
    ouar
    emywi
    fe
    Hil
    l
    s
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedoutt
    ocl
    am her
    sel
    fdown*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    pleasel
    eav
    eTar
    Tar
    :weneedt
    otal
    k
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    tal
    kaboutwhathuh.
    ..
    tal
    kaboutwhat
    !!
    !
    *
    **shesai
    dget
    ti
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Tar:t
    here’
    snoneedforyoutot
    alkt
    omel i
    ke
    that
    ..
    ..
    icomeinpeacesodropt
    hatatt
    it
    ude
    *
    ***
    Hill
    schuckl
    edshaki
    ngherhead.
    ..
    she
    movedbackandtr
    iedtocl
    osethedoorbutTar
    qui
    ckl
    ybl
    ockedi
    t**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    remov
    eyourhandorI
    ’
    llscr
    eam
    Tar:Ididn’
    tcomeher
    etofi
    ghtst
    handwa
    sam. .
    .pl
    easelet
    sgosomewher
    eandtal
    k
    please
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    remov
    eyourhandTar
    ek.
    ..
    .r
    emov
    eit
    *
    **shesai
    dloudl
    y**
    *
    Voice:youhear
    dthel
    adyshl
    ama
    (fool)
    ..
    ..
    removeit
    **
    *avoicesai
    dbehi
    ndTarekandi
    twas
    Mpande..
    ..
    Tar
    ektur
    nedfr
    owningandt
    hat
    ’s
    whenHill
    ssawhim***
    Tar
    ek:
    stayoutofthi
    swena.
    ..
    .thi
    sisbet
    ween
    mywif
    eandi….andwhothef*ckareyou
    ***
    Mpanderaisedaney
    ebr
    owl
    ooki
    ngatHi
    l
    ls
    andthenatTarek*
    **
    Mpande:
    sothi
    sist
    hecheat
    ert
    heonet
    hat
    f
    *ckswhit
    ewomen
    *
    **Hi
    ll
    slookedawayandTar
    ekgotangr
    y
    l
    ooki
    ngatHill
    s**
    *
    Tar:
    soyoutel
    ljustany
    bodyourbusi
    ness….
    our
    busi
    nessShal
    ate
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Tar
    ekpl
    easel
    eav
    e
    Tar
    :imtal
    ki
    ngtoyouHi
    ll
    sdamni t!
    !!
    ..
    ..
    you’
    ve
    al
    waysbeendumbsoim notsur
    pri
    sed
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wow
    **
    *shechuckledbli
    nkingfasttryi
    ngnotto
    cr
    y….shedidn’
    twantt ocryinfrontofhi
    m and
    gi
    vehimt hesati
    sfacti
    on….she’
    sdonewi th
    hi
    m…. she’
    sdonebei ngembar r
    assedbyhim
    **
    **
    Mpande:
    heyheyheyshl
    amasenj
    a..
    ..
    that
    ’snot
    howyouspeakt
    oawomanwenams* nu
    Tar
    :whatdi
    dyouj
    ustcal
    lme
    Mpande:
    Shl
    ama.
    ..
    .ms*
    nu
    *
    **Mpandesai
    dtohi
    sfaceandTar
    ekgr
    abbed
    Mpandewithhi
    sshi
    rtandMpandeal
    so
    grabbedhi
    m wi
    thhi
    sshir
    tal
    soandHil
    ls
    screamed*
    **
    Mpande:whatdoy
    outhinky
    ou’
    redoing.
    ..
    do
    youknowhowexpensi
    vethi
    sshi
    rti
    swena
    ms*nuk*nyoko
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    guy
    sst
    opi
    t.
    ..
    .Tar
    ekl
    ethi
    m go!
    !!
    ***
    Tarekpushedhi
    mlet
    ti
    nghi
    m goand
    Mpandedidthesameandhef
    ixedhi
    sli
    nen
    shi
    rt*
    **
    Tar:sothi
    si swhatyou’recheat
    ingonmewi th.
    ..
    wit
    ht hi
    sthingthatdressesli
    kethis….thi
    sfar
    m
    boy…whodr essesli
    ket hisi
    nhisage…. howdare
    youembar rassmeliket hi
    sShalate….howdare
    youcheatonmewi ththisthi
    ngt hat
    ’sway
    bel
    owmyl evell
    ikethis
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    zi
    ngMpandeupanddown*
    **
    Mpande:ms*nuk*
    ny okoshlama….gol
    o
    l
    oyi
    hlo….
    youseeher….im gonnat
    akeherand
    makememi ne….she’
    ll
    forgetaboutyourtiny
    d*ckandfakeaccent….conti
    nueadverti
    sing
    yourdi
    sabil
    it
    ytowhi t
    ewomenImeant heyare
    usedtosmalld*cksany ways…..
    womenl i
    ke
    Hil
    lsher
    edeservear ealmanwi thamanl yd*ck
    Hi
    ll
    s:yhoJehovah…Tarekleavebat
    hong
    ..
    .l
    eav
    e...
    .Mpandestopinsult
    inghi
    m pl
    ease
    ***
    shesaidwi
    thherhandsontopofher
    head…t
    hiswasbad…real
    lybad**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    m sor
    ryMpande.
    ..
    im sosor
    ry….
    thi
    s
    i
    s…yho
    ***shesaidmov ingforwardandcl osingthe
    doorbehi ndher…..asforTarekhe’ saski
    ng
    himselfifwhatHi l
    lssaidthatotherti
    meshe
    call
    eddr unkwast rue….washisd* ckreal
    ly
    smal l
    ….wasal l
    thewomenhesl eptwithfaki
    ng
    i
    tal li
    ncludi
    ngHi l
    ls.
    ..
    hisheartisbeatingfast
    andhewonder sifHill
    sandMpandet al
    ked
    aboutt hesizeofhismanhooddur ingpil
    lowtal
    k
    causenomancant al
    kaboutanot
    herman’ s
    d*cksi
    zeli
    ket hisifhedoesn’
    thavetheinsi
    de
    i
    nfoaboutit
    …..Asf orMpandehisfuseisabout
    tobust
    ….Tarek’sinsul
    tsgottohi
    m* **
    Mpande:
    weehNtabeni
    goi nsi
    deandgetr
    eadyI
    needt
    otalkt
    othi
    sboyalone
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpand.
    ..
    .
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    assombl
    i
    ef.
    ..
    Hi
    ll
    s:not
    herewon’
    tbeanyf
    ight
    ingher
    e
    Mpandepl
    ease
    Mpande:
    whosai
    dim goi
    ngt
    ofi
    ghtt
    hisf
    ool
    Tar:
    hei.
    ..
    this…t
    hisi
    smywi fe.
    ..
    whot hehelldo
    youthi
    nky ouare.
    ..
    .howdareyoudisrespectme
    l
    ikethi
    s..
    ..
    thisi
    smywi fedamnit!
    !!
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    .
    ...
    *
    **t
    hedooropenedandausVeegotout
    ***
    AusVee:
    andt
    henl
    eshat
    a(what
    ’swi
    tht
    he
    noi
    se)
    ***
    Hill
    shear
    tispoundi
    ngf
    astashel
    ooks
    betweenTar
    ekandMpande***
    AusVee:andthenwenacheat
    inghusband
    for
    wardslashpolygami
    stobatl
    angmo(what
    areyoudoinghere)
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngatTar
    ekwi
    thaf
    rown*
    **
    Hil
    l
    s:hewasj
    ustl
    eav
    ingausVee.
    ..
    ismama
    awake
    **
    *ausVeeshookherheadnoandHi ll
    s
    br
    eathedoutfeel
    i
    ngrel
    ievedthenshelookedat
    Mpandewhowasst i
    lll
    ookingangry
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    thi
    sisAl
    pha’
    sbr
    otherMpande
    AusVee:oohoksol
    eshat
    akel
    aeng(what
    ’sal
    l
    thi
    snoisefor
    )
    Mpande:Ntabeni
    im st
    il
    lwai
    ti
    ng.
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    e
    Masaical
    ledyou
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Tar
    ek:
    you’
    renotgoi
    ngany
    wher
    ewi
    thmywi
    fe!
    !!
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Tar
    ekl
    eav
    e
    Tar :i
    m notgoingany whereunt i
    lwet al
    k…..
    im
    donebei nglenientwithyou…nowy ou’r
    elet
    ti
    ng
    thingsli
    kethisdi sr
    espectmel ikethi
    s….doeshe
    knowwhot hef *ckIam…. howdar ehe
    disrespect
    smel ikethi
    s….infactyouknowwhat
    got akeyoursh* twear egoinghomenow! !
    !
    AusVee: oraset sang...
    .kaobonaobat l
    ake
    tl
    ogel eBokgat l
    abakakent sebopi
    tor
    ibaka
    causekabonaonal el
    eny atsomosimane(why
    arey oumaki ngnoi se..
    .iseey ouwantmetoput
    asidemyTswanasi deandt akeoutmy
    Pretoriansi
    decauseIseey ou’r
    enowbeing
    disrespectf
    ul boy)
    ***
    Tarekclenchedhisj
    awsandausVeel ooked
    betweenTarek,MpandeandHi l
    lsandMpande
    chuckl
    edcont ai
    ninghi
    mselfbecauseof
    ausVee…he’smadangr y…t
    helastti
    mehewas
    thi
    sangryhe……* **
    AusVee:mmmmh. ..
    im goi
    nginsi
    det
    oboila
    ket
    tl
    eofwat erandwhenIcomeouther e,t
    he
    onethati
    snotsupposedt obeherewil
    lwake
    upinhospi
    talatlhobegil
    elet
    lal
    o(wi
    thhisski
    n
    bur
    ned)nxa
    *
    **shel
    eftt
    hem t
    her
    e**
    *
    Tar
    ek:
    got
    akey
    ourt
    hingsandl
    etsgohome!
    !!
    ***sheswall
    owedhar dwit
    htearsinher
    eyes...
    .t
    hensheheardtheket
    tlebeingt
    urnedon
    andt hewaterst
    art
    ingtoboil
    i
    ng***
    Hil
    l
    s:Tar
    ekl
    eavenow..
    .ausVeei
    sseri
    ousand
    whenmamawakesupal lhel
    lwi
    ll
    breakl
    oose
    sogoify
    ouval
    ueyourli
    fe
    ***
    Tar ekswall
    owedhar d.
    ..
    hecouldn’tbeli
    eve
    shewaschoosi ngMpander ightinfrontof
    hi
    m. .
    .hehasnev erbeenhumi l
    i
    atedlikethi
    s
    before..
    .r
    ightt
    henausVeecamebackandTar ek
    mov edbackwi thhi
    sheartbeatingfastthi
    nki
    ng
    shehadt hekettl
    ewithher.
    ..
    ..shelookedat
    Hi
    l
    ls*
    **
    AusVee:sokemangat l
    hobi
    wang( whoam i
    burni
    ng)thewaterisboi
    li
    ngni
    cely
    ..
    .i
    m surei
    ts
    youMrf orwar
    dslashcausei
    m sureabuti
    Mpandeher ei
    sheretoseehisnephew
    ***Tarekswall
    owedhard.
    ..
    .hel
    ookedatHil
    ls
    thi
    nkingshewill
    changehermindbutshedidn’
    t
    sayany t
    hingt
    henhelookedatMpandewithan
    angrylookonhisfaceandhewalkedaway
    fuming* *
    *
    AusVee:
    thoughtasmuchnx….
    Mrpol
    ygami
    sty
    a
    masepa
    *
    **shewenti
    nsi
    del
    eav
    ingMpandeandHi
    l
    ls
    t
    here*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    m sor
    ryaboutwhatj
    usthappened…i
    m
    r
    eal
    lysor
    ry
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thashakyv
    oice*
    **
    Mpande:
    goandgetr
    eady
    ..
    ..
    wear
    egoi
    ngoutt
    o
    t
    alkabouttheacci
    dent.
    ..
    .ihavet
    hei
    nvoi
    cei
    n
    mycar..
    .I
    ’
    llwai
    tforyouthere
    **
    * hethenwalkedawayandthat’
    swhenher
    t
    ear srandownhercheeks.
    ..
    .shewal
    kedi
    nsi
    de
    wipinghertear
    soff*
    **
    AusVee: yahDori
    sot l
    oswakapelo
    shem. .
    .sebet
    esaforwardsl
    ashkaserespect
    a
    (yahDor iswil
    ldi
    eofaheartatt
    ackshame..
    .i
    respectforwardsl
    ash’
    sguts)
    *
    **shesai
    dpi
    cki
    nganowawakeKhai
    up*
    **
    AusVee:
    arey
    eot
    lhapapapa(l
    etsgoandbat
    h
    papa)
    *
    **t
    heywalkedawayandHi
    l
    lst
    hrewher
    sel
    fon
    t
    hecouch*
    * *
    Hi
    ll
    s:Godgiv
    emet
    hest
    rengt
    htodeal
    wit
    hal
    l
    t
    hispl
    ease
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .

    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER30
    (thisisy
    our“del
    ayed”chapt
    ert
    heoneIowe
    ya’l
    l
    ...
    enj
    oy!
    !)
    .
    .
    .

    ATTHESANGOMA’
    SPLACE
    ***Al
    pha’ sfacet r
    ansformedbackt onormal
    andhisey esalsot ur
    nedbacktonor mal,he
    bl
    inkedt hreet i
    mest henhesneezed...
    .he
    l
    ookedar oundandhef oundeveryonelookingat
    hi
    m exceptf orGazawho’ ssti
    ll
    passed
    out..
    ..
    rightthenGazacoughedopeni nghis
    eyes..
    ..Mahl ebezuluhel
    pedGazat ositupand
    Alphalettejustlookedathim
    i
    ntensel y.
    ...
    Alphalett
    emov edhi
    sey esand
    l
    ookedatt hesangomaandhecl appedhis
    palmst oget herbowinghisheadal i
    ttl
    e***
    Al
    pha:
    thokoz
    ani
    Sangoma:
    thokozaMkhul
    u
    *
    **Al
    phat
    hendi
    dthesamet
    hingt
    ohi
    suncl
    e**
    *
    Mabunda:
    thokozaMkhul
    u
    ***
    Hethendidthesamet
    hingtoMahlebezul
    u
    andMahlebezul
    ulai
    dont
    heflooronhissi
    de***
    Mahl
    ebezul
    u:t
    hokozababa
    ***hesaidclappi
    nghishandst oget
    herthenhe
    satupandkneel edont hefl
    oorfaci
    ng
    down. .
    ..
    he’snowscar edofAl
    phaaf t
    erwhathe
    witnessed..
    ..
    .Al
    phathenlookedatGazaf or
    somet imet henheclappedhispalms
    together*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    thokoz
    ani
    ***
    Gazaswal
    lowedhard.
    ..
    .i
    twast
    hel
    ookhe
    hasonhi
    sfacethatscar
    edhim**
    *
    Gaza:
    thokozaMkhul
    u
    ***
    Mahlebezulurol
    ledsomet issueforGaza
    andheweti twit
    hsomewat erandhehandedi t
    tohimtel
    linghi
    mt owipeofft heblood...
    .hedi
    d
    sowithAlphasti
    lll
    ookingathimi ntensel
    y *
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whydon’
    tyouwantt
    ogetr
    idofi
    t
    ***
    hesaidoutoft
    hebl
    ueandGazaswal
    l
    owed
    hard*
    **
    Gaza:
    youwon’
    tunder
    stand
    Al
    pha:
    soi
    t’
    sforpowerandweal
    th
    Gaza:
    li
    keIsai
    dyouwon’
    tunder
    stand
    Mabunda:
    whatar
    eyout
    wot
    alki
    ngabout
    Alpha:t
    heissomeonewhocanhelpyouandI
    knowy ouweret
    oldthatbuty
    oudon’
    twantto
    getri
    dofit
    ...
    why
    Gaza:Idon’
    twantt ogetri
    dofitandmy
    reasonsshouldn’
    tmatter
    ..
    ..
    thefacti
    sIdon’
    t
    wanttogetridofitper
    iod
    Mabunda:
    youdon’
    twanttogetri
    dof
    what
    ..
    ..
    whatar
    eyoutwotalki
    ngabout
    Alpha:soyourathersacr
    if
    iceTshi
    mo’
    ssaf
    ety
    forthatev
    ilt
    hinginyou
    Gaza:
    sacri
    fi
    ceTshimo’ssafet
    yhow..
    ..
    howis
    melovi
    ngher,marryi
    ngherandhavi
    ngkids
    wit
    hhersacri
    fi
    cinghersaf
    ety
    Al
    pha:
    youknowwhatt
    hoseki
    dswi
    th
    have.
    ..
    .y
    oudon’
    tev
    enknowhowherpr
    egnancy
    wil
    lbeli
    ke
    Gaza:
    andhowist
    hatyourbusi
    ness.
    ..
    .y
    oudon’t
    seemesti
    cki
    ngmynoseinyourbusi
    nesswit
    h
    Masai
    Alpha:t
    hatgi
    rli
    sinnocentGaza.
    ..
    .shedoesn’
    t
    deserv
    ewhaty ou’
    reabouttoputherthr
    ough
    Gaza:andMasaideservest
    obeinapol
    ygami
    st
    marri
    age.
    ..
    .shedeser
    vestobemarri
    edt
    oaman
    whohasamer manspir
    iti
    nsi
    deofhi
    m
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    et*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Inowknowt
    hati
    twonthappen
    Gaza:becausetheyj
    ustshowedy ounow. ..
    .but
    youwerewi l
    l
    ingtoputhert hr
    ought hatrubbish
    eventhoughshe’ssi
    ck.
    ..
    .youwer ewi l
    li
    ngt oput
    herthr
    oughsh*tbymar r
    yinganot herwomant o
    payoffadebtsodon’tsi
    tt hereandactlike
    you’
    reasaint
    Al
    pha:yousti
    ll
    don’
    tseeanyt
    hingwrongwi
    th
    whaty
    ou’reaboutt
    oputTshi
    mot hr
    ough
    Gaza:im notputti
    ngherthr
    oughany t
    hing.
    ..
    ..
    .I
    l
    ov eherandIwi l
    lmakehermi ne.
    ...
    wewi ll
    buil
    d
    afamilytogetherandnothi
    ngwi l
    lstopme
    exceptherfrom giv
    ingherthat
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    ouev
    enl
    i
    steni
    ngt
    oyour
    sel
    f
    Gaza:
    kahl
    enj
    e
    Alpha:i
    fyouloveherGazayouwill
    getri
    dof
    thatthi
    ng.
    ..
    it
    sgonnadestroyyou.
    ..
    .i
    tdoesn’
    t
    havegoodintenti
    ons
    Gaza:y
    ou’
    reaf
    ineonet
    otal
    k
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tev
    engot
    her
    e
    Gaza:why.
    ..
    .y
    ou’r
    eherej
    udgi
    ngmemay beI
    shoul
    dstar
    tjudgi
    ngyoubyyourpast
    Sangoma:
    okt
    hat
    ’senoughboy
    s
    **
    *GazaandAl
    phal
    ookedi
    ntensel
    yateach
    ot
    her*
    **
    Sangoma:
    ther
    e’snoneedf
    oral
    lthi
    s
    Mabunda:
    whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon!
    !!
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghedandhel
    ookeddown*
    **
    Alpha:Gazawasputsomet hi
    ngev i
    l i
    nsi deof
    him bythewi tchdoctorpaidbyy oursi sterand
    hismot herinlaw...
    .hewasexper iment ingwi th
    him andheendedupput tingsomet hingbey ond
    thi
    swor ldinsideofhim. .
    ..Theywant edt oturn
    himintosomet hi
    ngev i
    l t
    heycoul dusef ortheir
    ownsel fi
    shr easonsbutt heyinvi
    tedsomet hi ng
    evil
    ..
    .t
    heyopenedagat ewayf orsomet hingev i
    l
    ***
    Gazaclenchedhisjawslooki
    ngdownashi s
    fat
    herswall
    owedhar dwithhi
    sey espoppedout
    andAlphal
    ettegotupandhewal kedout..
    ..
    the
    sangomasighedandheal sogotupand
    fol
    lowedAlphal
    ett
    e..
    .hefoundhim si
    tt
    ingona
    benchedunderanothertr
    ee***
    Sangoma:
    Iknowy
    oucar
    eabouthi
    m..
    ..
    alot
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingnextt
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Sangoma:hiswif
    emadehi mfeel weak.
    ..
    .she
    brui
    sedhisegoandmadehi mfeel l
    i
    kehe’snot
    manenoughandnowheexper iencedagr eat
    dealofpowerandyouthi
    nkhe’l
    lletitgoj
    ust
    l
    ikethat
    ..
    ..
    hefeel
    sinv
    inci
    ble
    Alpha:butTshi
    moi
    stheonewho’
    sgonna
    suffer
    Sangoma:
    andwhydoesi
    tbot
    hery
    ousomuch
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    tanswerhi
    m**
    *
    Sangoma:y
    out hi
    nkyoufel
    lforhert
    hef
    ir
    st
    ti
    mey oumetherri
    ght?
    ***
    Alphadi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngandt
    heSangoma
    chuckl
    ed**
    *
    Sangoma: wel l
    y oudidn’t.
    ...
    .whatyoufel
    twhen
    youmetheri sallorchestratedbyherfoolish
    ancest
    orsandf ather..
    ...
    youknowwher ey our
    hearti
    s..
    ..
    ...
    youl atefatherfoughthardfory ou
    nottogot hroughwhathewentt hrough..
    .he
    wantsyout obehappyandt omakey ourown
    choi
    cest hat’
    swhyhechangedy
    ourf
    ateor
    whateveritwasandmadehermeety
    our
    brot
    herinstead
    Alpha:al
    lim say
    ingi
    sshedoesn’
    tdeser
    vewhat
    she’sabouttogothr
    ough
    Sangoma: andt hemot herofy ourchil
    d
    deservesy ourmer man. ..
    .andalsoseeingher
    chil
    dtalkingt ohi sancest orsasifit
    ’sanor mal
    thi
    ngatt haty oungage. ..
    .i
    m sureshedi dn’t
    growupi naf ami lyfullofsangomasandnow
    shehast oadj usttot hi
    sl i
    fejustbecauseshe
    l
    ov esyou, youknowhowy ougotthat
    mer man....
    yousacr i
    ficedal ottohaveit..
    ..
    it
    wasn’tagi ftfrom y ourancest orsbut
    somethingy ouwentt oseek. .
    .butyouwantt o
    j
    udgey ourbr other..
    ..
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Sangoma: y
    ourmer
    manwasn’
    tthi
    scal
    m
    befor
    e..
    ..
    youknowwhaty
    ouhadtodot
    otame
    i
    t
    *
    **Al
    phaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    let
    snotv
    isi
    tthepastpl
    ease
    Sangoma: thenstopj
    udgingyourbrother.
    ..
    .he
    support
    edy ouanditsyourtur
    nnow. ..
    idon’t
    approvehisdecisi
    onbutitshi
    sdecisionto
    makeandi m sureheknowsal lt
    he
    consequencesthatcomeswi t
    ht hatdeci
    sion
    ***
    Alphaclenchedhisjaws.
    ..
    .thatthingi t
    evi
    l.
    ..
    whathappenedt oMarinahorr i
    fiedhim
    causethat
    ’shiswife,t
    hemot herofhi ssonbut
    hebrokeherliket
    hatheaskedhi msel fwhat
    wil
    lhedot oTshimoifshemessesup. ..
    .deat
    h
    wasev enbett
    erthanwhatshewentt hroughall
    becauseshecheated“ het
    hought ”
    *** *
    Sangoma: y
    ouhaveaspecialgi
    ft.
    ..
    .aser
    pentof
    cl
    earwater.
    ..
    .t
    hegreatNkany
    amba. .
    ..
    you
    haven’
    tevenexper
    ienced30percentofyourgi
    ft
    andyoualsohavethemerman..
    ..youshouldbe
    focusi
    ngonyourfamilyandyourgi
    ftbuthere
    youareworr
    iedaboutanotherwoman...
    .i
    ndeed
    humansareungratef
    ul mostoft
    hetimes
    Sangoma:di
    dtheyshowyouhowi tsavedhi
    m
    fr
    om aseri
    alki
    l
    ledi
    ntheforestr
    ightaf
    terhe
    escapedf
    rom t
    hatevi
    lhut
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghedandhenodded*
    **
    Sangoma: hewoul d’vedi edbyt hehandsoft hat
    evilmanbutittookov erandsav ed
    him...
    whetheri
    twasf oritsownt wist
    edr easons
    ornotbutitsavedhi m. ..
    .i
    twasei t
    herhi
    m or
    thatevilmanthatkill
    edf orf unandt r
    ustmei f
    hedidn’thavethatdemoni nsideofhim he
    wouldbedeadf orreal now. .
    .buri
    edalongwi t
    h
    thosev i
    cti
    msthatki l
    lerbur iedthere
    ***
    thesangomasi
    ghedandAl
    phaswal
    l
    owed
    hard*
    **
    Sangoma:yourbrot
    her’
    sgi
    rli
    snotyour
    busi
    nessandy oubei
    ngworri
    edl
    ikethi
    sabout
    herwi l
    lcausear i
    ftbet
    weeny ouandyour
    brotherandsoont heri
    ftwi
    l
    lbebetweeny ou
    andt hemot herofyourson.
    ..
    areyouprepared
    toloseher
    Al
    pha:
    Ilov
    eMasai
    ..
    ..
    she’
    smyl
    i
    fe
    Sangoma: buty
    ou’rehereworr
    iedabout
    anotherwoman...
    ..
    youdon’tev
    enseet hebi
    gger
    pi
    cturehereMkhulu..
    ..
    **
    *hegotupandwalkedawaywhi
    stl
    i
    ngand
    Al
    phal
    ett
    esighed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    thi
    sol
    dmanknowsal
    otf
    ormyl
    i
    king.
    ..
    .
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    eish
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DETHEANCESTRALHUT
    *
    **t
    heSangomawal
    kedi
    n**
    *
    Sangoma: Mahlebezulugoandpr epar
    e
    cleansingwat erforhim....he’
    llsteam f
    irst..
    ..
    he
    can’tgot ot heriv
    ergogowoul dbef uri
    ousand
    shemi ghtkill
    usbecauseoft hatdemon. ..
    .ku
    l
    abekaaf embiwaanov eni (heneedst obe
    exorcisedi naf or
    est)firstbef oreIcant akehim
    tother iverforaseriouscl eansingbutsi ncehe
    doesn’twannagetr idofi tim notaboutt ot ake
    chanceswi thourliv
    esbyanger i
    nggogo
    *
    **Mahl
    ebezul
    uswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Mahl
    ebezul
    u:t
    hokozababa
    ***
    hesaidcl
    appinghi
    spal
    mstoget
    herandhe
    gotupandwalkedoutoft
    hehut
    ***
    Sangoma:
    arey
    ouokMabunda
    Mabunda:Ineedsomeai
    r..
    .i
    tstoohoti
    nhere
    andIneedtousethet
    oil
    et.
    ..
    ithi
    nkIhavea
    r
    unnyst
    omach
    ***
    hesaidgett
    ingupandwal kingoutwi t
    hhis
    l
    efthandonhisstomachandt hesangoma
    si
    ghed..
    ..
    .het
    ookdiff
    erentcontainer
    sf i
    ll
    edwith
    muthiandheputthem downt henhesatdown
    andstart
    edmixingt
    hem inonecont ainerfor
    Gaza***
    Sangoma:he’
    snott
    aki
    ngt
    hiswel
    l
    ...
    .keepan
    eyeonhi
    m
    Gaza:
    I’
    ll
    tal
    ktohi
    m
    Sangoma:
    tal
    ktoy
    ourbr
    otheral
    so
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    may
    beweneedsomet
    imeapar
    t
    Sangoma:noy oudon’t.
    ...
    theonlyper sonthat
    canhel
    py outamet hatthing.
    ..
    wellifitcanbe
    tamedyourbrotherknowshi m..
    ...
    yougonna
    needhissupportson..
    ..
    leavethi
    st hingofhim
    beingt
    heonet hatissupposedt omar r
    yyour
    girl
    al onecauseshehasf all
    enfory ou..
    ..andto
    tel
    ly out het rut hit
    snotlovehe’sfeelingf or
    her..
    .youknowwher ehishearti
    s..
    ..
    that’swhat
    herf ooli
    shancest orsandfatherwant edt o
    happenwhent heymeetf orthefi
    rsttime, for
    them t of eellikeitsloveatfir
    stsi
    ght .
    ...
    there’s
    nolov eatf i
    rstsi ghthereit
    sjustmani pulation
    sor elaxandf ocusont hebiggerpictureand
    stopf ightingy ourbrot
    herman. .
    ..
    yeeer r
    r
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Sangoma:Ir
    emindedhi
    m aboutt
    hepastso
    don’
    tworr
    y..
    ..
    youtwowi
    llbefi
    ne
    *
    **Gazaswal
    l
    owedpai
    nful
    l
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    shewassupposedt
    omar
    ryhi
    m
    *
    **t
    hiswasnotsi
    tt
    ingwel
    lwi
    thhi
    m**
    *
    Sangoma:
    notf
    orl
    ovebutf
    ordut
    y
    Gaza:
    hehasf
    all
    enf
    orherIknow.
    ..
    .whati
    f.
    ..
    .
    Sangoma:
    hel
    oveshi
    ssoul
    mat
    eandhe’
    snot
    prepar edt oloseherf orany thingor
    any one....
    remembert herear ealsoevilf
    orces
    i
    nv olved. .
    ..
    herfather..
    ..
    he’sal i
    veand
    mani pul ati
    ngev ery
    thing..
    ..he’sangrythatshe
    hasf allenf ort
    hewr ongbr other..
    ..
    he’
    sgonnatry
    tocausechaosbet weent het hreeofyou
    *
    **Gazal
    ookeddown.
    ..
    heaskedhi
    msel
    fhow
    t
    hismanknewsomuch* *
    *
    Sangoma: y
    ouruncl ewant syouandy our
    brothertobehappy ..
    .t
    oexper ience
    happiness. .
    .somet hinghenev ergott o
    experiencef ull
    y,bymaki ngsur eyouendedup
    withwomengoodf oryoubutt hisworldi
    sf ul
    l
    ofev i
    lpeopl e..
    ..
    yourownbl oodbet r
    ayedy ou
    andademonwasputi nsideofy oumessingup
    hisplans, buthef oughthar dfory outomeet
    thatgirlcauseshe’ sgoodf ory oubutnotfor
    yourbr othercausehewasn’ tgonnamar ryher
    forlove..
    ...
    whydoy outhinkthemot herofhis
    chil
    dshef ellpregnantandgav ebirt
    ht oa
    healt
    hybabyeventhoughdoct
    orssai
    dthey
    bothwon’tmakeit
    Gaza:i
    tdoesn’
    tchangethef
    actthather
    ancest
    orswantNtsakoandnotme
    Sangoma: itsherf ather’
    sancest orsand
    remembert at aneway enaangahl aol
    ang. .
    ..
    .na
    yenant ombi angabi ki
    wangkabona. ...
    (her
    fatherdidn’ tpayf ordamagesandt hegir l
    wasn’tintr oducedt oherf ather
    ’sancestorst oo)
    theydon’ thav eanycl aimt oherbutt heystill
    wantt ocl aim hernxa. ...
    ifitwashermot her’
    s
    ancestorswhowant edy ourbrothertomar ry
    herIwoul dunder standbutt hem. .
    ..
    .
    *
    **heshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Sangoma:hei t
    avuyalamsaveni
    (t hi
    swor
    ldi
    s
    hect
    ic).
    ..
    .wi
    tchesneversl
    eeporrest
    ***
    hesaidashecont
    inuedt
    omi
    xher
    bsi
    none
    contai
    ner
    ***
    Sangoma:
    sot
    shi
    kani
    kul
    waengaku
    metemby ana(stopfighti
    ngli
    kedogs)andf i
    ght
    thi
    stogetherman...
    mekhegoril
    enaswekanda
    swakut alamalevu(y ou’
    reol
    dwi t
    hf acesf
    ull
    of
    beards)butyoufi
    ghtlikeschoolchi
    ldren

    _
    ___

    HI
    LLS(NARRATED)

    ***Mpandewalkedt
    othestepsi
    nst
    eadoft
    he
    el
    evatordi
    all
    i
    ngHeath’
    snumbersonhi
    s
    phone***
    Heat
    h:shoRoot
    s
    Mpande:
    sho.
    ..
    ineedaf
    avourf
    astf
    astman
    Heat
    h:oki
    mli
    steni
    ng
    Mpande:i
    m abouttobeatthecr
    apoutof
    someonewhodisrespect
    edmei nf
    rontof
    someone.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hepausedabi
    t**
    *
    Mpande:socany oumessupt heCCTVf oot
    age
    onthi
    scompl exi
    mi nri
    ghtnow...
    .iwon’tki
    ll
    him
    butIwannateachhim alessonhewillnever
    for
    get
    *
    **Heat
    hchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Heat
    h:whopi
    ssedy
    ouof
    f
    Mpande:I
    ’
    llt
    ell
    youall
    abouti
    tsomeot
    hert
    ime
    socanyoudothatf
    orme
    Heath:
    givemetheaddress.
    ..
    I’
    l
    lletoneofmy
    boyshandl
    eit
    ..
    .i
    m abouttoatt
    endameet i
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    Mpande:
    okt
    haaf
    oza.
    ..
    shap
    ***hedroppedt hecal
    landstoppedcli
    mbing
    downt hest air
    sandhesendhimt headdr
    ess
    thenher ushedout..
    ..
    hefoundTarekpaci
    ngup
    anddownt alki
    ngonthephonelooking
    angry.
    ..
    .heuppedhi spacetohim angr
    yashell
    andhegr abbedhisri
    ghtshoulderturni
    nghim
    aroundt ofacehimroughlyandapunchl anded
    onTar ek’
    sf aceandhef el
    lfl
    attothe
    ground...
    thenMpandegotont opofhi m andhe
    punchedhi mr epeat
    edlywithTarekt r
    yingto
    blockhispunchesbuti twasaf uti
    l
    et hingtodo
    especiall
    yifyouarecaughtoffguar d***
    Mpande:
    ungi
    j
    wael
    aamasi
    mbamsunuwakho!
    !
    ***hesaidt hrowinginpunchesunt i
    lTar ek
    couldn’tblockt hem anymor e.
    ...
    hepunchedhi m
    onel astti
    met henhegotupf rom him andhe
    kickedhim sev erall
    yuntilhehear dvoicesnot
    farofwoment alki
    ngandhemov edf r
    om hi m
    andr ushedt ohi scar.
    ..
    .hequicklyopenedi tand
    hegoti nclosingt hedoornotsat isfi
    ed...
    .he
    heardscr eamsandhecl i
    ckedhi stongue. .
    ..
    he
    tookouthi shandker chiefandwi pedthebl ood
    onhi sknuckles* **
    Mpande:
    nxa.
    ..
    .he’
    sf*
    ck*
    nlucky
    ..
    ..
    b*st
    ard!
    !!
    ****hewat chedthewhol escenefrom hisside
    mirrorsuntilhesawHi ll
    sapproachingthe
    scene...
    .hegotoutoft hecarasHi l
    lsscreamed
    whenhesawTar ekont hegroundwi t
    habl oody
    face..
    .hewasst i
    llconsciousandawomani s
    busyont hephonecalli
    ngt heparamedics***
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    !
    !!
    **
    *hecal
    ledherandsher
    aisedherheadasshe
    wasabouttokneel
    nextt
    oTarek***
    Mpande:
    asambe(l
    etsgo)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpandehe’
    s.
    ..
    Mpande:
    ngi
    theasambe.
    ..
    .manj
    e!!(Isai
    dlet
    s
    gonow)
    *
    **Tar
    ekr
    aisedhi
    shand*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    don’
    tgopl
    ease
    *
    **Mpandewal
    kedt
    oherj
    ustasTar
    ekhel
    dher
    l
    eg**
    *
    Mpande:
    fuseg!
    !!
    ..
    ..
    letgoofhershl
    ama
    *
    **hesai
    dangr
    il
    yandTar
    ekl
    etgoofherl
    eg*
    **
    Woman: hawabut
    icantyouseehe’
    s
    hur
    t.
    ..
    .t
    here’
    snoneedforyoutobethi
    srude
    Mpande:uy
    aphaphanempandl
    a(y
    ou’
    ret
    oo
    f
    orwardwit
    hyourbal
    dhead)
    Woman:
    aski
    es
    Mpande: Idon’tknowwhyunganoker aichi
    skop
    (youdon’tjustcutallyourhai
    roff)cause
    hair
    li
    neisgonengaphauy aphaphanobubi (on
    topofityou’r
    et ooforwardwit
    hy ourugly
    sel
    f).
    ...
    concentrat
    eont hepati
    entandkeepy our
    mout hshutmpandl ane(baldy)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpande.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesai
    drepr
    imandi
    nghi
    m**
    *
    Mpande:
    let
    sgo
    **
    *thenhel
    ookedatTar
    ekast
    heyhel
    pedhi
    m
    si
    tonhisbut
    t**
    *
    Mpande:
    izi
    ntabakphel
    aezi
    ngahl
    angani
    l
    ova.
    ..
    .usazony
    a
    **
    *hesai
    dwithascarylookonhisf
    aceandhe
    gr
    abbedHil
    l
    s’ handandpul
    ledhert
    ohiscar
    wit
    hherl
    ookingbackatTarek*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpandewai
    t.
    ..
    he’
    s.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesai
    dtr
    yingt
    opul
    lbackherhand*
    **
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    !
    !!
    ***Hesaidfi
    rmlylooki
    ngatherwi thapi ssed
    offlookonhisfaceandsheswal lowed
    hard..
    ..
    heopenedt hedoorforherandshegot
    i
    nwi thawor r
    iedlookonherface...
    .thenhe
    cl
    osedt hedoorandwentt othedr i
    versideand
    hegoti nandstar
    tedthecarandher eversed
    anddr oveaway***
    .
    .
    .
    BACKATTHEPARKI
    NGLOT
    Woman:wanny el
    athatguynxa..
    .al
    lIsai
    dwas
    heshoul
    dn’tberudegafet
    say enaotlompot
    sa
    masepa(andhedecidestotel
    l mesh*t)
    *
    **shesai
    dangr
    il
    y**
    *
    Woman:
    sawar
    aabut
    ianambul
    ancei
    soni
    ts
    way
    **
    *Shesai
    dtoTarekwhowaswipi
    nghi
    s
    bl
    eedi
    ngnosewit
    hhisshi
    rthej
    ustt
    ookof
    f**
    *
    Woman2:
    Iwoul
    dn’
    tevenbesur
    pri
    sedi
    fhe’
    s
    t
    heonewhodi
    dthi
    stothi
    spoorguy
    *
    **t
    heysawsecuri
    tyr
    ushi
    ngt
    othem.
    ..
    .anot
    her
    t
    enantcal
    l
    edthem***
    Woman1: nxbonafel
    alebont
    shokegonaba
    t
    lang.
    ..
    .nxausel
    ess
    Woman2: mxm ohobauselessba(theyare
    usel
    esstheseones)
    ..
    .youcanevenbri
    bethem
    toent
    erdimpyatse(thesedogs)
    Woman1:somet hingneedstobedoneabout
    them.
    ..
    thefi
    rstonesweretopcl
    assbutt
    hese
    onesareusel
    ess
    Woman2:
    didy
    ouseewhodi
    dthi
    stoy
    ouabut
    i
    ***Tarekignoredthem andhesl owlybl
    ocked
    hisnosef rom all
    thebleeding..
    ..
    hecouldtel
    lby
    thebloodst i
    llcomingoutandt hepainthati
    t
    wasbr oken...
    .hesearchedforhisphoneand
    oneoft hewomanwentt opickitforhi
    m andhe
    call
    edhisf ri
    endbuthedi dn’tanswerhi
    s
    phone* *
    *
    Secur
    it
    y:whathappenedher
    e
    Woman1:weshoul
    dbeaski
    ngyou
    t
    hat
    ..
    ..
    asker
    eit
    syourj
    obtoguar
    dthi
    spl
    ace
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thanat
    ti
    tude*
    **
    Securi
    ty:
    hawsisterwewer
    ebusybyt
    hegat
    e
    that
    ’swhyim aski
    ng
    Woman1:
    im noty
    oursi
    sterwena
    ***
    theyconti
    nuedtoar guebackandfort
    hand
    Tarekjustcl
    osedhisey esasthepai
    n
    accompaniedbyaheadachegotwor se..
    ..
    hel
    aid
    backdownandwai tedashehear dsi
    rensofan
    ambulancegett
    ingcloser**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATAMO’
    SHOME

    ***Jabuwascal ledbyAmo’ smot hertocome


    theyhav esomethingimpor tanttotalktohim
    aboutsohedeci dedtot akeal ongRaycause
    he’sthesensibl
    eandmat uredone. ..
    .Hedoesn’t
    knowwhathe’ sbeencal ledf orandtaking
    Heat hwithhi
    m andknowi nghowshor t
    temper edheis,allhel
    lmi ghtbr eaklooseifthey
    pisshim off
    ..
    ..
    .Theypar kedt hecarout sidet
    he
    gate,theycanseemour ner sout si
    desitti
    ngand
    dr
    inki
    ngt
    eawi
    thscones*
    **
    Ray
    :ar
    eyour
    eady
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    ift
    heysayt
    heyar
    ebur
    yingherl
    ett
    hem
    *
    **Raynodded*
    **
    Ray
    :andi
    ftheywanty
    out
    obur
    yher
    *
    **Jabukeptqui
    et*
    **
    Jabu:
    Idon’
    tknowbi
    gRay
    ..
    .ei
    shIdon’
    tknow
    *
    **Raysi
    ghed*
    **
    Ray
    :okl
    etsgohearwhatt
    heyhav
    etosay
    ***t
    heygotoutofthecarandworetheirj
    acket
    s
    andRaylockedthecarandtheywalkedin.
    ..
    .
    peoplei
    nsidetheyar
    dlookedatthem someare
    evenwhisperi
    ngamongt hemsel
    ves***
    Woman1: whati
    fhesacri
    fi
    cedpoorAmofor
    ri
    ches.
    ..
    .imeanl
    ookatthatcarandt
    hecl
    othes
    he’
    swearing
    *
    **shewhi
    sper
    edt
    ohi
    sfr
    iend*
    **
    Woman2: mmmmhandIhear dheevenkicked
    heroutofhi
    shouser
    ightaf
    tert
    hei
    rdaughter
    di
    ed
    Woman1:
    ereway
    aka(sayy
    ou’
    rel
    yi
    ng)
    Woman2:
    imt
    ell
    i
    ngy
    ou
    Woman1:
    yho
    ***sheclappedherhandsdr amat i
    call
    y..
    ..
    .Jabu
    andRaygr eetedt heonescl osertothedoorand
    theywal kedinsi de..
    .theroom becamequi et
    i
    nst ant
    lyast heyent ered.
    ..
    ..
    Theygr eetedand
    thepeopl einsidet her oom greetedbackand
    theysatdown. .
    ..Onewomangotupandhewent
    tothebedr oom wher eAmo’ smot herisand
    whisperedt ohert hatthehusbandi sher eand
    Amo’ smot heri nstructedhert oletthem i
    n...
    it
    wasonl yAmo’ smot her,heruncleandaunt
    i
    nsi det
    hebedr oom* **
    Woman:
    youcancomei
    n
    ***shesai dt oRayandJabuwhof elt
    uncomf ortablewithhowt ensethingshave
    becomesi ncetheygother e.
    ..
    theygotupand
    followedher .
    ..
    theygotinsidetheroom andthey
    greet edsitti
    ngdownandt hingsgotmor e
    i
    nt ense...
    .Jabusi ghedandhel ookeddownand
    play edwithhi sweddingr i
    ngwai t
    ing.
    ..
    ..
    Ray
    clear edhisthroat***
    Ray:
    myelder
    s..
    ..
    wecameassoonaswehear
    d
    youwant
    edtoseehi
    m
    Man:whycomenow.
    ..
    .i
    sn’
    thethehusband.
    ..
    so
    mysi
    sterhadt
    ocal
    lhi
    mf orhi
    mt oshowhis
    f
    ace
    Ray:withallduerespectJabuandAmower e
    separatedandy oursi
    sterknowsthat
    ..
    ..
    a
    meetingwasev enhel
    dbybot hfamil
    i
    esand
    yourniecedidandsayt heunthi
    nkabl
    e..
    ..
    .y
    ou
    werenott heresodon’ttal
    kaboutthi
    ngsyou
    knownot hingabout
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaf
    ir
    mtone*
    **
    Woman: butshewassti
    llhi
    swi f
    e..
    .theyhada
    chi
    l
    dt oget
    her.
    ..
    .wehear
    dhewasev enar r
    est
    ed
    asasuspectforhermurderandmor e
    i
    mportantl
    ywhereareyourelder
    s,theyshoul
    d
    betheonesherewithhi
    m
    *
    **Jabucl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Ray:Iam hi
    sel
    derandifyouhaveapr
    obl
    em
    wit
    ht hatt
    henwecanjustleav
    e
    *
    **het
    henl
    ookedatAmo’
    smot
    her
    ***
    Ray
    :May
    oucal
    l
    edusher
    e
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :Jabul
    ani
    Jabu:
    ma
    Amo’smother:Iknowy
    ouandmydaught
    erhad
    yourdi
    ff
    erences
    *
    **Jabuwant
    edt
    olaughatt
    hatst
    atement
    ***
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :..
    ..
    aft
    ert
    hedeat
    hofJabul
    i
    le
    thi
    ngsgotwor sebutIknowy oulovedher .
    ...
    you
    foughtforher
    ..
    .youfoughttomakehery our
    wifewhenherf ather
    ..
    ..
    .whenherfatherwas
    againstthei
    dea..
    ...
    Shewasahappi l
    ymar r
    ied
    womanwhogl owedunt i
    lthedev
    ilenteredy our
    mar r
    iage
    *
    **shesighedandJabucl
    enchedhi
    sjawsst
    il
    l
    l
    ookingdown***
    Amo’smother:Iwil
    lnotlieandsayAmowas
    perf
    ectandasaint..
    .alothappenedwhi chyou
    knowabout..
    ..
    soasAmo’ smot herIwanty
    outo
    buryher
    ..
    ..
    ithi
    nkthisisthecl osureyouwil
    l
    needmyson. .
    .i
    tistherightthingtodo
    *
    **Jaburai
    sedhisheadt
    olookatherwit
    ha
    f
    rownonhisfaceandhesawherwipingher
    f
    all
    ingt
    earsoff*
    **
    Amo’smother:Iknowyoudidn’tkil
    lher
    ..
    ..
    .iwas
    ther
    ewhent hosethugspoi
    ntedt hegunat
    us..
    ..
    thel
    eadersvoicei
    simprintedinmy
    mind.
    ..
    hisaur
    awasev i
    l
    ...
    itwasl
    ikehewasthe
    devi
    lhi
    mself.
    ..
    .ifear
    edhim morethanIf
    ear
    ed
    thegunhepointedatuswi t
    h
    *
    **Jabul
    ookeddownf
    rowni
    ngwhi
    l
    eRay
    l
    i
    stenedcar
    eful
    l
    y**
    *
    Ray:i
    sthereany
    thi
    ngelseyour
    ememberabout
    them.
    ..
    .atatt
    ooorr
    ingorsomethi
    ngma
    *
    **sheshookherheadnowi
    pingherf
    all
    i
    ng
    t
    ears*
    **
    Uncl
    e:why..
    ..
    ony
    akotimetsamotl
    hal
    a(y
    ou
    wanttogetri
    doftheevi
    dence)
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :Tshepo.
    ..
    .
    **
    *sher
    epr
    imandedhi
    mthenshel
    ookedat
    Ray*
    **
    Amo’ smother:
    Whoeverki
    ll
    edmydaught er
    knewwhathewasdoi ng..
    .t
    hatwasn’
    tjusta
    robbery.
    ..
    .shewast
    hetarget
    Uncl
    e:herweddi
    ngr
    ingwasal
    sot
    akennow
    whywouldathugtakeamereweddi
    ngri
    ng
    heh..
    .unl
    essi
    thel
    dsenti
    mental
    val
    uetothat
    person
    Jabu:thatr
    ingcostR35000andi tdidn’
    thold
    anysentimental
    valuetoherbecauseshest i
    l
    l
    cheatedweari
    ngi tsowhyshoulditholdsuchto
    anotherper
    son
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngatt
    heuncl
    e**
    *
    Uncl
    e:heh.
    ..
    30what
    ..
    ..
    *
    ***Amo’
    smot
    herandauntgasped*
    **
    Uncl
    e:thatri
    ngneedst
    obef
    ound.
    ..
    ..
    thepol
    i
    ce
    needtofindi
    tnow!!
    !
    ***
    Rayjustshookhi
    sheadlooki
    ngdown...
    .t
    his
    unclewasjustsomet
    hingel
    se“hethought”
    ***
    Jabu:
    whydi dn’
    tyoutel
    lthepol
    iceabout
    Mondli
    ..
    .whyisn’
    theasuspecttoo.
    ..
    youknow
    whathappenedbetweenthem and.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hebr
    eat
    hedoutt
    ocal
    m hi
    msel
    fdown*
    **
    Jabu:yourdaught
    erhurtmedeepl
    y
    ma...
    ..
    Jabuli
    l
    ediedbecauseofher
    ..
    .
    *
    **Amo’
    smot
    herl
    ookedaway
    ***
    Uncl
    e:hei
    heihowdarey ousayt
    hatabout
    Amo..
    ..
    youkil
    l
    edmyniecenowot l
    obolel
    akadi
    hur
    tmo(y ou’
    rebusyt
    alki
    ngaboutbei
    nghurt
    )
    *
    **Jabuf
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngatt
    heuncl
    e**
    *
    Jabu:wooohuncl
    e..
    ..
    nnalwenaarejajanefi
    rst
    ofall
    ..
    ..(
    youandIdon’tknoweachotherfi
    rst
    ofall
    )
    Ray
    :Jabu.
    ..
    .
    **
    *hetr
    iedt
    ostophi
    m becausehecoul
    dseehe
    wasnowangry
    ***
    Jabu:emapelebigRay(wai tbigRay).
    ..
    ..
    die
    uncl
    eisoutheretalki
    ngasi fheknewAmo. ..
    .
    whydon’tyouasky oursi
    stergorewhatdidher
    daughterdoheh.
    ..
    .shewasgoi ngaround
    sl
    eepingwithcul
    ti
    ststhatendedupki l
    l
    ingmy
    daughterasasacri
    fi
    ce.
    ..
    ifIwantedherdeadI
    could’
    vekil
    l
    edherthenandkay opant i
    tako
    suncit
    y(andgoservemyt imeinj ai
    l
    )butIl
    et
    herli
    veandonlyaskedforadivorce
    Ray
    :Jabu.
    ..
    Jabu: mat hefactt hatyousaidy ouknowI
    didn’tkil
    l yourdaught ermeansy ouwentoutt o
    consul t...
    .iknowi t’
    sthereasony ou’resay i
    ngI
    shoul dbur yhersi nceshe’sstil
    lmywi f ecause
    i
    fy oususpect edIwasr esponsibleIwoul dn’
    t
    hav ebeenal l
    owedt oenterint
    oy our
    yard....
    whati m seeingisobat lagof i
    tlha
    botlhaswabangwanagaol ediket sot sagae
    tsabosat aneusingme. .
    ..
    keplay groundnna
    anker e(y ouwantt ohidey ourdaught erev il
    doingsusi ngme. ..
    im aplaygroundr i
    ght )
    ...
    .peopl eusemeandIshoul djustf orgiveand
    forget...
    .noonecar esaboutwhaty ourdaught er
    putmet hr ough..
    .kechipinna(i m madeofst eel
    )
    Idon’ tgethur tri
    ght
    *
    **Amo’
    smot
    herj
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Woman: mokgwenyana(soninlaw)..
    ..
    .it
    hink
    weshoul dl
    etbygonesbebygones...
    Amoi s
    gone..
    ..
    .whatweshouldbefocusingonislaying
    hertorestsowecanal l
    healandmov e
    on..
    ..
    gorewhatshedidordidn’
    tdodoesn’ t
    matternow..
    .she’
    sgone
    Uncl e:you’
    renott hefi
    rstmant obehur tby
    theirwife..
    ..
    leny alogasepapadi seun( mar
    ri
    age
    i
    snotf orthef aintheart
    edson)sobur yyour
    wife...
    .omony etsewar e(youmar r
    iedherand
    said)throught hickandthi
    n..
    ..
    forbet t
    erorf
    or
    wor sesokey onawor see(sot hisistheworse
    part)
    *
    **Rayl
    ookedatt
    heuncl
    ewi
    thani
    ntensel
    ook
    *
    **
    Ray:okwewil
    lst
    artwit
    hthefuner
    al
    ar
    rangement
    sthen.
    ..
    wewillkeepyouupdat
    ed
    *
    **hesai
    dandhegotup*
    **
    Ray
    :let
    ’sgoJabu
    *
    **Jabual
    sogotup*
    **
    Uncl
    e:j
    ustl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Ray
    :ist
    her
    esomet
    hingel
    se
    Uncle: weneedt odiscussthefuneral
    arrangement s...
    .whereshewi l
    lbebur i
    ed.
    ..
    .her
    casket .
    ..
    .foodanddr inksandwhi chfuner
    al
    parloury ou’
    regoi ngtouse..
    ..
    .myniececan’t
    usej ustanyf uneralparl
    our.
    ..
    .wehav ea
    standar dwehav etokeep...
    she’
    smar ri
    edtoa
    ri
    chmansopeopl eneedt oseethat
    Ray
    :will
    youpayf
    oral
    lthet
    hingsy
    ouj
    ust
    menti
    oned
    **
    *theuncl
    elookedatAmo’
    smot
    hert
    henat
    Ray**
    *
    Uncl
    e: he’
    sthehusbandsohehast
    opayf
    or
    ever
    ything
    *
    **Rayl
    ookedathi
    mforawhi
    l
    eunt
    ilt
    heuncl
    e
    swal
    lowedhardandlookedawayandthat
    ’s
    whenRaylookedatAmo’smother
    ***
    Ray
    :mawewi
    l
    lkeepi
    ntouch
    ***Jabulookedattheunclei
    ntensel
    ytoounti
    l
    theunclefeltuncomfor
    tabl
    ethentheywalked
    out***
    Amo’smother
    :Tshepokengkawenamar
    a
    (Tshepowhat’
    swrongwithyou)
    Tshepo:
    whatdi
    dIdo
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :coul
    dn’
    tyouj
    ustkeepqui
    et
    Tshepo:
    keepquietforwhat.
    ..
    .hehastobury
    her.
    ..
    .wewontburymyni eceli
    keapauper
    whil
    eshe’smarr
    iedtoarichman...
    neverand
    pl
    uswear enotevensureifhe’
    sresponsi
    bleor
    not
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :he’
    snot
    Tshepo:
    youdon’tknowthat.
    ..
    maybengakay
    a
    gao(yourt
    radi
    ti
    onalheal
    er)l
    iedt
    oy ou
    *
    **Amo’smothersi
    ghedandshel
    aiddown
    i
    gnor
    ingherbrot
    her
    ***
    Woman: Tshepowenawal api
    samanaarg..
    ..r
    e
    bol
    etsepilaandwenawaseny adi
    lo(wespoke
    abouthowwear egoingt ohandl
    ethetal
    kand
    youdecidedtorui
    nthings)
    Tshepo:aket lotel
    lakebaf ananyananna...
    .t
    hey
    thi
    nkjustbecauset heyhavemoneyr etloutl
    wa
    kabona...
    never(Iwi l
    lnotbedi sr
    espectedby
    smallboys..
    ..
    theythinkj
    ustbecauset heyhav e
    moneywewi l
    l t
    akewhat evertheysay..
    .never
    )
    Woman:
    nowondery ourwi
    fel
    efty
    ou.
    ..
    .y
    ou
    hav
    enosenseatal
    l
    Tshepo:ket
    laobot
    sadit
    abat
    sagaowaswaba
    l
    edichubabatsamemeza
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :hai
    manenough!
    !!
    **
    *theykeptquietandUncl
    eTshepogotupand
    hewalkedoutlookingangr
    y**
    *
    Woman: aski
    esman...
    .Tshepoleyenawa
    tena.
    ..
    .aslongastheyagreedtoburyheri
    m
    surethiswill
    stoppeopl
    ef r
    om specul
    ati
    ng
    rubbi
    shabouther
    *
    **Amo’
    smot
    herdi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER31
    (thi
    sisyourbonuschapterasanapol
    ogyf
    or
    thedel
    ayedchapter.
    ..
    .enj
    oy!!
    )
    .
    .
    .

    I
    NSI
    DETHECAR

    Jabu:
    wanny
    eladai
    man
    Ray
    :cal
    m down
    Jabu:
    nx.
    ..
    .mar
    *t*agaeent
    leknx
    *
    **Raysi
    ghed*
    **
    Ray:wegotthi
    sJabusodon’ tworry
    ..
    ..
    thewives
    wil
    lhandl
    eallt
    hefuneralarr
    angement.
    ..weare
    bur
    yingheronThursday.
    ..wegonnadoi tl
    ike
    whit
    epeopledoit
    ..
    ..i
    twil
    lonlybefamil
    y
    member s
    *
    **Jabudi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Ray
    :Igott
    hisdon’
    twor
    ry.
    ..
    imj
    ustgl
    adwe
    di
    dn’tbri
    ngHeathalongorthatuncl ewas
    gonnafeelhi
    swrathandwedon’ tneedto
    str
    essGogoandMkhul uaboutt hisnonsense
    wewi l
    lj
    ustkeepthem updatedabout
    every
    thi
    ngelse.
    ..
    theyaretoooldf orthi
    ssh*t
    *
    **t
    hent
    heykeptqui
    et*
    **
    Ray:
    LaParcawi
    ll
    takehersoul
    onThursday
    ni
    ght.
    ..
    it
    sti
    meshewenttoanswerf
    orhersi
    ns
    *
    **Jabuswal
    l
    owedhar
    dlooki
    ngatRay
    ***
    Ray:Ithi
    nkhe’smakingmeawar eofthi
    s
    becauseshe’sadaughterinl
    awinthefamil
    yor
    may bethere’
    sanot
    herreason.
    ..
    ..
    idon’
    tknow
    causeimj usthi
    svessel
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Ray:shesleptwithawi t
    chdoct
    ortohaveyou
    back..
    ..
    .shebasi
    cal l
    ysol
    dhersoultohaveyou
    beherpuppetnotknowi ngsheenteredthe
    wrongndomba. ..
    .shethoughti
    twasjustsex
    wit
    hhi mt ohavey oubackbuti
    twasn’t,
    he
    playedher
    ,heplant
    edsomethi
    nginherand
    beforei
    tcouldworkshewaski
    ll
    ed..
    ..
    shewas
    naïveandstupi
    dtothi
    nkshewasgonna
    succeed
    *
    **hechuckl
    edshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Jabu:
    how.
    ..
    howdoy
    ouknowal
    lthi
    s
    Ray :
    Ruut oldmeandIhav eademonat tached
    tomysoul Jabu..
    ..eachdayiml earningtoli
    ve
    withitandt oknowhowi toperat
    es....
    ial
    sodo
    researchesabouti t
    ..
    ..
    .i
    tsstuckwithmewhet her
    Ili
    keitornotandIhav enoonet obl amebut
    my self
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    shedi
    dal
    lthatt
    ooandt
    heyst
    il
    lwantme
    tobur
    yher
    Ray:maybetheyknowormay betheydon’t
    knowbutwhatIknowi sy ouwil
    lburyherthen
    you’
    llmoveon..
    .t
    hisistheendofadar ktunnel
    fory
    ouJabu...
    .t
    hisisit
    ..
    ..
    don’
    tletanyt
    hingor
    any
    onedi
    str
    acty
    ou.
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    real
    mostt
    her
    e
    *
    **Jabujustsighedt
    hinki
    ngaboutwhatRay
    j
    ustsai
    dt ohim* *
    *
    Ray:somethi
    ngisof
    fher
    e..
    ..
    .t
    hatman.
    ..
    .t
    hat
    wit
    chdoctor.
    ..
    .
    Jabu:
    whatabouthi
    m
    Ray:somethi
    ngisoffevenRuusaidit.
    ..
    hetr
    ied
    tousehiscry
    stalbal
    ltoseehim buthi
    sface
    becomesblurr
    ythenhelaughs..
    ..
    Jabu:
    isheaf
    terusorme
    Ray:Idon’
    tknowbutsomethi
    ngi
    sof
    fbutwe
    wil
    lgettothebot
    tom ofi
    t
    Jabu:
    whydi
    dn’
    tyout
    ell
    meal
    lthi
    s
    Ray:RuucalledmewhenIwasst i
    lli
    nNiger
    ia
    andhewasabi tworr
    ied.
    ..
    .weweregonnatel
    l
    youaftert
    hef uner
    alorwhenyouarebackt
    o
    yourusualself
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    soI
    m backt
    omyusual
    sel
    f
    *
    **Rayl
    ookedathi
    mthenhechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Ray
    :yeahy
    oucanev
    ensmi
    l
    enow
    Jabu:
    mxm
    *
    **Rayl
    aughed*
    **
    Ray:
    Cassal
    readyt
    ookcareoft
    hef
    ingerpr
    int
    s
    sodon’
    twor
    ryaboutSbu
    Jabu:
    remi
    ndmet othankhi
    m..
    ..
    atl
    eastIdon’
    t
    havet
    oworryaboutt
    hat
    Ray:
    im st
    il
    lgonnawhi
    phi
    sbut
    tfort
    hatst
    unt
    hepull
    ednxa
    .
    .
    .

    ONACONFERENCECALL
    Thandi
    :hei
    baf
    azi
    Ijustgotacal
    lfr
    om Ray
    Mbal
    i:aboutt
    hef
    uner
    alar
    rangement
    s..
    ..
    .he
    al
    socall
    edme
    Thandi
    :yeah
    Phumi
    :oohsoJabuwi
    l
    lbur
    ythedeadwi
    tch
    *
    **Thandi
    laughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :haahPhumi
    Phumi
    :i
    t’
    sthet
    rut
    hmoes
    Mbal
    i
    :wher
    eisSt
    ar
    Thandi:she’sstandingi
    nforHeathi
    nameet i
    ng
    wit
    hsomesuppl i
    ersbecausehehadtoat
    tend
    anotherimportantonesinceJabuandRaywent
    toAmo’ splace
    Mbal
    i:t
    hat
    ’sni
    ce..
    ..hubbyandwifeystandi
    ngin
    f
    oreachot
    her.
    ..
    .Icanal r
    eadyseehercat
    wal
    ki
    nginaroom fullofhor
    nymengl owingin
    herhighheel
    s..
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    ebynowal
    lthose
    perv
    er t
    senvyHeathshem
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Thandi:
    im sur
    eHeat hwon’tal
    l
    owhert ogotoa
    meeti
    ngwi tharoom ful
    lofmenonlyit
    sjustt
    he
    suppl
    iersMbali
    ..
    .yhohewoulddieofheart
    att
    ackmypoorbr other
    Phumi
    :heli
    kestoactl
    ikehe’
    snotobsessed
    wit
    hherbutweseehim..
    ..
    Mbal
    i
    :mmmmh
    Phumi
    :ut
    himmmmh.
    ..
    .wenaRayi
    swor
    sewi
    th
    you
    *
    **Thandi
    laughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :andRuui
    snot
    ?
    *
    **Phumi
    laughed*
    **
    Thandi:
    wenaCasseventur
    nedyoui
    ntohi
    s
    femalever
    siont
    okeepyouashi
    sfor
    everand
    ever
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughedsomemor
    e**
    *
    Mbali
    :haiwearef
    *ck*
    dshem.
    ..
    .any
    waywewi
    l
    l
    updat
    eStarl
    atert
    hen
    Thandi
    :yepany huu.
    ..
    .wehav
    ethreeday
    sto
    arr
    angeitbecausetheguysbaresheshoul
    dbe
    buri
    edonThur sday.
    ..
    .
    Mbali:
    yeahhubbysai
    dt heywill
    makesurethe
    bodyismovedfrom t
    hegov ernmentmor
    tuary
    todaytoapri
    vat
    efuneralparl
    our
    Thandi:mmmmhmoneyt alksakere
    so..
    ..
    cater
    ingyaablackkasi f
    uneral(a
    tr
    adit
    ionaltownshi
    pf uner
    alcater
    ing)or
    sandwichesanddrinks
    Mbali:sandwichesanddri
    nksandi
    mthi
    nki
    ng
    t
    hef uneralserv
    iceshoul
    dbeatani
    ce
    venue(nyana)andnotatJabu’
    s
    Phumi:mmmmhshewi l
    lmovef r
    om thef
    uneral
    par
    lourt
    ohermother’
    shousewher eshedi
    ed
    sotheycol
    l
    ecthersoul
    ..
    .wel
    lthat
    ’sift
    heangel
    ofdeathhasn’tcol
    lect
    edital
    ready
    ..
    ..t
    henshe
    wil
    lgotothev enueforli
    keanhourorsothen
    tothegrav
    ey ardandAmen. .
    .
    Thandi
    :Mbali
    shouldbetheonetoknowi
    f
    hubbyhascol
    lect
    edthesoulornot
    Mbal
    i
    :tsekThandi
    thewi
    zar
    d’swi
    fe!
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i:
    anywayfrom thegr
    aveyar
    dthenbackt
    o
    t
    hevenuetoeatthenwearedone
    Thandi:
    okIagreet
    oobutnnaIwon’ tgotothe
    grav
    eyardI
    ’
    llr
    emainatthev enuetomakesure
    ever
    ythi
    ngi
    sfinecauseim sti
    llbr
    east
    feedi
    ng
    Phumi
    :asformeyouknowthesuni
    smy
    enemysosomeoneshoul
    dtakeal
    iv
    evi
    deof
    or
    me
    Thandi
    :ai
    wenal
    eal
    l
    ergyy
    alet
    sat
    si(
    sun)
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :butshedi
    edpai
    nful
    l
    ybaf
    azi
    Thandi:y
    ah.
    ..
    neelemoerskondy
    amosadibut
    shedidn’
    tdeser
    vetogooutli
    ket
    hatman
    Phumi
    :wel
    lherhusbandsat
    ancal
    l
    edf
    orherso
    whoar
    ewet osayno
    *
    **Thandi
    laughedherbut
    tof
    f**
    *
    Thandi
    :Phumi
    osav
    age
    Phumi:
    prett
    ygir
    lLil
    eisdeadbecauseshe
    coul
    dn’
    tkeepherlegscl
    osedsoIdon’tf
    eelany
    sympat
    hyforhershame
    *
    **t
    heykeptqui
    etwhent
    heyt
    houghtofLi
    l
    e**
    *
    Phumi
    :any
    wayy our
    emembert
    hedaught
    eri
    n
    l
    awItol
    dyall
    about
    Mbal
    i:t
    heonet
    hatisnoty
    etbor
    n..
    ..
    yhomar
    a
    t
    hisf
    amilyi
    Net
    fl
    ixnj
    e
    *
    **Thandi
    laughed*
    **
    Thandi
    :tr
    ue..
    .icantev
    enkeepupandit
    s
    str
    angethatweal l
    haveaccept
    edev
    eryt
    hing
    thewaytheyare
    Mbal
    i
    :lov
    eandl
    oyal
    tybaf
    azi
    Thandi
    :pl
    ussej
    eso(l
    ovepot
    ion)
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Phumi
    :wenaMbal
    iyouareworse.
    ..
    youshar
    ea
    bedwi
    ththegr
    imr
    eaperandyougavebir
    thtoa
    l
    it
    tl
    ecut
    edemonchil
    d
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :lov
    emf
    azi
    ..
    .l
    ove
    Thandi
    :pl
    ussej
    eso(l
    ovepot
    ion)
    Mbali
    : y
    ouknowIt houghtIwil
    lgetmarri
    edt oa
    normalguyandhav eanormal marr
    iagewith
    normalkidsbutf
    ateorwhat ev
    eritwas..
    .was
    l
    ikeuyanyashame...
    .yougonnagetthewor stof
    them al
    l
    *
    **t
    heyal
    ll
    aughed*
    **
    Phumi:ei
    shweev endi
    ver
    tedfr
    om whatI
    wantedtotel
    lyal
    l
    ...
    any
    waythemotherand
    fat
    herarebot
    hdeadbutshesurvi
    ved
    Thandi
    :hai
    wena.
    ..
    .what
    ..
    ..
    whathappened
    Phumi:someevilVampswantedherbloodso
    yah.
    ..
    .Hubbysav
    edherbutherparent
    sdidn’
    t
    makeitshame
    Mbali
    :shamemara.
    ..
    wher
    eisshe.
    ..
    soar
    eyou
    gonnarai
    seher
    Phumi:Casssaidi
    tsnotagoodideasoshe’
    s
    gonnaberaisedbysomeoneCasstrust
    smxm
    Thandi
    :aski
    esIknowhowmuchy
    ouwantt
    o
    rai
    seababygir
    l
    Phumi:
    Cassseemst obel
    iev
    eThea’sf
    ir
    stchi
    l
    d
    wil
    lbeagi
    rlsofornowim wait
    ing
    Mbali:
    hehPhumi .
    ..
    ial
    mostfai
    ntedwhenIsaw
    yourson’
    srecentphot
    o..
    ..
    konj
    ehowfastdo
    Vampbabiesgrow
    Phumi
    :hai
    angazi
    nami
    butRuusai
    dit
    snor
    mal
    Mbal
    i
    :li
    keIsai
    dthi
    sfami
    l
    yINet
    fl
    ixnj
    e
    Thandi
    :youcansayt
    hatagai
    n
    *
    **t
    heycont
    inuedt
    ochatov
    ert
    hephone*
    **

    _
    ___

    ATTHERESTAURANT

    ***Theywal kedinandMpandepul ledachai r


    forHill
    sandshet hankedhim andsatdown
    thenhesatdownt oofaci
    ngher...
    .shel ookedat
    hisbruisedknucklesandshesi ghed...hermi nd
    wentbackt oTarek,shewonder edifhe’ sokand
    thatMpandedi dn’
    tcausetoomuch
    damage. ..
    .Shetookoutherphonenotawar e
    thathewasst ari
    ngatherasshesi ghed
    continuously.
    ..
    .Asshewasaboutt odi alhis
    number shegr abbeditandputi tont het abl
    e***
    Hi
    ll
    s:ummm excuseme.
    ..
    whatdoy
    out
    hinky
    ou
    ar
    edoing
    Mpande:you’
    renotaboutt
    odi
    srespectmeby
    cal
    l
    ingthatboyi
    nfrontofme
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpande.
    ..
    .
    ***
    shesighedcl
    osi
    ngherey
    esf
    orasect
    hen
    shelookedathi
    m***
    Mpande:
    andy
    esIbeatt
    hecr
    apoutofhi
    m
    *
    **shelookedathi
    m wi
    thaf
    rownonher
    f
    ace***
    Hi
    ll
    s:why..
    ..
    youdi
    dn’
    thav
    etohurthi
    mli
    ke
    t
    hat.
    ..
    vi
    olencei
    snott
    heanswer
    Mpande: i
    tistomei fyouinsultme..
    ...and
    umtsheleukut hi
    eyamadodaay i
    phel
    i (andtell
    hi
    mi m noty etdonewithhim)soi m stil
    lgonna
    panelbeathim somemor eev eryti
    meIseehi m
    unti
    li
    m satisfi
    edukuthiuzwil
    e
    **
    *shesighedsi
    tti
    ngbackandlooki
    ngat
    hi
    m...
    thi
    sguyisinsane“
    shethought
    ”***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whatwi
    l
    lyouachi
    evebydoi
    ngt
    hat
    Mpande
    Mpande:
    sat
    isf
    act
    ion
    ***
    sherol
    l
    edherey
    esdonewi
    tht
    his
    conver
    sat
    ion*
    **
    Mpande:don’
    teverr
    ollyoureyesatmeever
    agai
    nNtabeni
    ..
    ..
    that
    ’spuredisrespect
    Hil
    ls:
    canwej
    ustdi
    scusst
    hei
    nvoi
    cey
    ougotso
    Ipayyou
    ***
    hedidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng.
    ..
    hej
    ustl
    ookedat
    her*
    **
    Mpande:
    youhaven’
    tapol
    ogi
    zedf
    orr
    oll
    i
    ngy
    our
    ey
    esatmeNtabeni
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    what
    **
    **sheaskedchuckl
    i
    ngabitbuthedidn’t
    smil
    eorl
    augh..
    ..
    .hewasdeadser
    ious*
    * *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    you’
    reser
    ious
    Mpande:
    im wai
    ti
    ng
    Hil
    ls:
    wow..
    .okgehabuti
    .
    ..i
    m sor
    ryf
    orrol
    li
    ngmy
    eyesaty
    ou..
    ..
    happynow..
    .canwegett
    hisover
    anddonewith
    Mpande: uyi
    chit
    hengo“ happynow” ..
    ..
    .uyabona
    wenaNt abeniufunanjeinkonzoy asekamel weni
    ngiyi
    ngeni sebusukubonkel akuwena..
    ..Umuntu
    akshay enjengendukuemnandi busuku
    bonke...
    uchameungaqedi ukuthiukwazi
    ukungihlonipha(y ourui
    nedi twith“happy
    now”..
    ..y ouseeNt abeniyouj ustwantmet o
    f*ckyout hewhol enight
    ..
    ..giveyouagoodd* ck
    thewhol enightmaki ngyousqui rtnonest opso
    you’l
    lrespectme)
    Hil
    ls:huh..
    ..
    .okcanyoutr
    ansl
    atet
    hatcausei
    m
    notreall
    ythatgoodwit
    hZulu
    Mpande:i
    ndoday
    omZul
    uayi
    khulumi i
    nto
    eyodwakabi
    li
    (aZul
    umandoesn’tsayone
    thi
    ngtwi
    ce)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhoModi
    mo.
    ..
    .okIunder
    stoodt
    hatone
    ..
    ..
    .sondodayamoZulu(Zul
    uman)canwet
    alk
    aboutwhatbr
    oughtusher
    esoIcanl
    eave
    ***t
    hewai t
    erbroughtthem thei
    rdr i
    nksand
    askediftheyarereadytoorderandHi ll
    ssaid
    no..
    ..
    Mpandeor deredhisusual cheddarmelt
    steak,Frenchfr
    iesandv egesandal soorder
    ed
    thatforHil
    lsandthewai t
    erleft
    ***
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    m notst
    ayi
    ngf
    orl
    ongsoy
    oudi
    dn’
    thav
    e
    t
    oorderforme
    Mpande:
    say
    swho
    Hi
    ll
    s:me.
    ..
    .andplusi
    m onadietsowhaty
    ou
    or
    deredf
    ormei snotgoodf
    orme
    Mpande:
    athi
    diet(shesay
    sdi
    et)
    ..
    ..
    dietf
    or
    what
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hil
    l
    s:rememberkef
    att
    yboom boom asy
    ou
    cal
    ledme
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    butIapol
    ogi
    zednt
    ombenhl
    e
    Hil
    l
    s:canwej
    ustt
    alkaboutwhatbr
    oughtus
    her
    e
    ***
    helookedatherandhecoul
    dseeshe’
    sst
    il
    l
    hurtbyt
    hat.
    ..
    .hesi
    ghedandsmil
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:whatbroughtusher
    eisf
    oodanda
    goodconver
    sati
    on
    Hil
    ls:no..
    ..i
    tsmepayi
    ngyoufordamagi
    ngy our
    car.
    ..
    youknowwhatIdon’tevenknowwhy
    Masai gaveyoumynumbers..
    ..
    howdidyou
    evenfoundoutwhereIli
    vedcauseMasaisaid
    sheonlygav eyoumynumbers
    Mpande:
    Ihav
    emyway
    s
    Hi
    ll
    s:whatar
    ey outry
    ingt
    odoMpande.
    ..
    .what
    ’s
    al
    lthi
    s..
    .wedon’tl
    i
    keeachot
    hersowhyall
    thi
    s
    ***
    hedidn’
    tanswerher .
    ..
    .hej
    ustl
    ookedather
    causetr
    uthf
    ull
    yhedi dn’
    thaveananswertothat
    quest
    ion.
    ..
    shesighed***
    Hil
    l
    s: canwej
    ustt
    alkaboutt
    hepay
    mentsoI
    canleave
    *
    **Mpande’
    sphoner
    angandheanswer
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    foza
    Heat
    h:whatt
    hehel
    ldi
    dthatguydot
    oyouman
    *
    **Mpandechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    hedi
    srespect
    edme
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngatHi
    l
    ls*
    **
    Heat
    h: damni
    m sur
    eyoudi
    slocat
    edhi
    sjaws
    andbrokehi
    snose
    Mpande:
    wel
    lnextt
    imeI
    ’
    llcr
    ushhi
    sb*
    ll
    s
    *
    **Heat
    hlaughed*
    **
    Heat
    h:wel
    lIt
    ookcar
    eoft
    hef
    oot
    age
    Mpande:
    ngi
    yabongabaf
    oI’
    l
    ltakecar
    eoft
    he
    r
    est
    Heat
    h:sho
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecall
    andMpandesi
    ghedand
    t
    ookasipofhi
    sdr
    ink***
    Mpande:phuzaphelai
    sabandaledl
    i
    nkyakho
    (dr
    inkupwhileyourdr
    inki
    sstil
    lcol
    d)
    Hil
    l
    s:y
    oudidn’
    thav
    et osaydl
    i
    nkMpande.
    ..
    you
    canpr
    onouncet
    he“r”bat
    hong
    Mpande:
    ngumZul
    umi
    nasoy
    ouhav
    etoget
    usedt
    oit
    Hi
    ll
    s:Idon’
    thavetogetusedtoanyt
    hing.
    ..
    .wi
    l
    l
    weevertal
    kaboutwhatbroughtushere
    Mpande:ok.
    ..
    .i
    mnadii
    cheddameltst
    eaky
    al a
    neh(thecheddarmel
    tsteakher
    eisni
    cer
    ight)
    *
    **Hi
    ll
    ssigheddefeat
    ed..
    ..
    thi
    sguyi
    sjustt
    oo
    much“shethought
    ”***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhoModi
    mo
    Mpande:canwej ustenj
    oyourmeal
    fir
    stt
    hen
    wewil
    ltalkabouttheacci
    dent
    *
    **shesi
    ghedgi
    vi
    ngup.
    ..
    .t
    hisguywasj
    ust
    i
    mpossi
    blet
    odeal
    wit
    h“shet
    houghtagai
    n”*
    **

    _
    ___

    THEFOLLOWI
    NGDAY

    ATAMO’
    SHOME

    ***MbaliandNal ediwalkedi nsidethey ard


    l
    ooki ngdashi ngwi t
    hsungl asseson. ...
    theyboth
    glowedi nthesunandsmel texpensiv e.
    ..
    .They
    dressedt okillt
    odayf orapur pose,youcoul d
    tellt
    heyar erichhousewi ves. .
    ..
    Everyonei nsi
    de
    they ar
    df eltint
    imidatedbyt hem...
    ..
    They
    greetedandev eryonegreet edbackl iketheyare
    forcedtodosoev enotherwomenwer egivi
    ng
    them nast ylookswhi l
    emendr ooledov er
    them. .
    ..
    OneofAmo’ scousinst ookt hem inside
    andtheywal kedinsidetheroom Amo’smot her
    i
    sinandt heygreetedr espect
    ful
    lyandsat
    down...
    theneighbour swhower einsi
    dethe
    bedroom excusedt hemselvestogivethem
    pri
    vacy* *
    *
    Nal
    edi:mamaIdon’
    tknowi
    fyour
    emember
    us.
    ..
    .i
    m Nal
    edi
    andthi
    sisMbal
    i
    ***Amo’ smot herjustnoddedwi thast r
    aight
    facewhi l
    et heauntl ookedatt hem upanddown
    withwhatl ookedl ikeadi sgust edlookonher
    face..
    ..
    Af t
    erJabucal ledthem andt ol
    dthem
    thatAmowi l
    lbebur iedonThur sdayshef eltl
    ike
    i
    twast oosoon. ..
    Shet r
    iedtoreasonwi thhim
    thattherear efami l
    ymember swhol i
    vefarand
    thattheywon’ tbeabl etomakei tbutJabu
    stoodhi sground.....
    shecoul dn’tevenbel i
    eveit
    whenhet oldhert heyhav eal r
    eadymov edher
    bodyf r
    om t hegov ernmentmor tuarytoapr i
    vate
    funeralparlourwithouti nformingher ..
    ..
    She
    regrett
    edagr eeingt ohav ingherdaught ertobe
    buri
    edbyJabujusttosav eface.
    ..
    thewor stof
    hem all
    wasthatshewon’ tbeablet ogobat h
    herdaught
    er’
    sbodyonel asttimebecauset he
    funer
    alpar
    lourbathesthebodiesthemsel ves
    andtheyal
    sodr essthem themsel
    v es**
    *
    Mbal
    i:ummm wearesorr
    yfory ourl
    ossmama
    andt
    hewhol
    ef ami
    l
    y..
    .duduzekani
    UncleTshepo: r
    oduduzekaby ang(whent hey
    kil
    ledherandt hekil
    lersareoutt her
    eenjoyi
    ng
    themselves..
    ..
    kamot hatboyi sdoingashe
    pleases..
    ..
    mysi st
    erher ecantev engoandbath
    anddr essherdaught erforthelastti
    mecause
    herdaught er
    ’shusbanddeci dedt odoashe
    pleaseswiththisfuneral!
    !!
    *
    **t
    heuncl
    esai
    dangr
    il
    yandMbal
    isi
    ghed*
    **
    Mbal i
    :ummm babat hinawear ejustdaught
    er
    i
    nl awssendheret ogetinfoforAmo’s
    obituar
    y..
    ..
    wewer etol
    dy ester
    daytoarrangethe
    funeralsoasazi
    luthonathi(weknownot hi
    ng)
    Uncle:
    li
    es!
    !.
    ..
    doy
    ouseehowbrokenmysist
    er
    i
    s..
    .doyou.
    ..
    howcant
    hatboydothi
    stoher
    *
    **Mbal
    isi
    ghed.
    ..
    shewasget
    ti
    ngannoy
    ed*
    **
    Mbali
    :ngenhloniphonokusthobababamay be
    youshoul
    dt al
    kt otheelder
    saboutthi
    s..
    ..
    .y
    ou
    aredi
    rect
    ingy ourangeratthewrongpeople
    *
    **t
    heauntcl
    appedherhandsdr
    amat
    ical
    l
    y**
    *
    Aunt
    :soussay
    ingheshouldbur
    yhery
    oual
    l
    deci
    dedt
    oshowusy ourt
    ruecol
    our
    s
    Nal
    edi
    :aunt
    ythat
    ’snott
    rue
    Tshepo: it
    strue..
    ..
    .i
    m surethatboygother
    kil
    led.
    ..
    .hepaidpeopl etodoitIknowit.
    ..
    .how
    canhebur ymyni ecesoquickasifshe’
    san
    orphan..
    ...
    .whyishenotdoi ngtheri
    ght
    thi
    ngs..
    ..ever
    y t
    hingisquickquick
    Mbal
    i
    :theny
    oushoul
    d’
    vebur
    iedhert
    hen
    Aunt
    y:aski
    es
    Mbal
    i
    :yhoi
    m sodonewi
    tht
    his
    **
    *Nal
    edi
    sighedshecoul
    dseetempersar
    e
    hi
    ghnowandMbal i
    isget
    ti
    ngangr
    y***
    Nal
    edi
    :may
    beweshoul
    dleav
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dget
    ti
    ngup*
    **
    Tshepo:ny
    enyiweshoul
    dleav
    e..
    ..
    .sacr
    if
    icial
    l
    ampst sadimpyat
    sagothwala(forcul
    tists)
    Nal
    edi
    :aski
    es
    Aunt
    y:t
    rophywi
    vespamper
    edwi
    thbl
    ood
    moneynxa
    Mbal
    i
    :hehheh
    *
    **shel
    aughedget
    ti
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Tshepo:t
    heyfai
    l
    edt ocomeandbar omel
    a
    di
    febetsabona(theirwhores)t
    hinki
    ngwewi
    l
    l
    pret
    endalli
    swell
    ..
    .bannyi
    le
    Mbal
    i:
    whatdi
    dyoujustcal
    lus.
    ..
    .ul
    alenat
    hi
    wenafory
    out
    ocall
    ust hat
    Nal
    edi
    :l
    etsj
    ustl
    eav
    eMbal
    itheyar
    enotwor
    thi
    t
    Tshepo:
    wenaketlagotl
    osabotshwafebooka
    mpama(I ’
    l
    lremov
    ethatalbi
    nism wi
    thasl
    ap)
    *
    **Nal
    edi
    laughedwear
    inghersungl
    asses*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :botl
    oseuncle.
    ..
    ..
    oModi
    mowenaanker
    e
    (r
    emoveituncl
    e..
    ..
    you’
    reGodr
    ight
    )
    Mbal
    i
    :seey
    ouatt
    hef
    uner
    al
    *
    **shegotupandwor
    ehergl
    assest
    oo*
    **
    Tshepo: t
    hat’
    sfuner
    alwonthappen.
    ..
    .got
    ell
    thatbloodsucki
    ngfamil
    yofyoursgorekere
    thatfuneral
    wonthappen
    Aunt:ai
    yyeeetrophywivestsagoapar a
    desi
    gnerclothestsagor eki
    wakabloodmoney
    (tr
    ophywi vesthatweardesignercl
    othesthat
    areboughtwi t
    hbloodmoney ).
    ..
    ..
    youthinkwe
    don’
    tknow
    Mbali
    :saysashamefulandgreedyfami
    lyofa
    whorethatsl
    eepswit
    hcult
    ist
    s..
    ..
    ihope
    sacr
    if
    ici
    ngJabuli
    lemadeya’l
    lri
    chnxa
    Nal
    edi
    :Mbal
    il
    etsgol
    et’
    snotst
    oopt
    othei
    rlev
    el
    Aunt
    :or
    engwena
    Mbali
    :maybeever
    y oneoutsi
    deshoul
    dknowt he
    ki
    ndofchil
    dyouraised.
    ..
    .y
    oujudgedJabuwhen
    hewantedtomarryherbecauseofhisl
    i
    fest
    yle
    notknowi
    ngyougav ebi
    rthtoawitch
    Tshepo:
    voet
    sekl
    eav
    e!!
    !
    ***Hesai dget t
    ingupandMbal i
    laughed
    walki
    ngoutf oll
    owedbyNal ediandtheyfound
    peopleint hediningroom l
    ookingtowardsthe
    passagel eadingt ot
    hebedroom. .
    .t
    heywalked
    outandwentt ot hei
    rcar
    ..
    .Theygotinand
    Naledidrov eoffleavi
    ngdustbehind..
    ..
    .Mbal
    i
    call
    edRay * *
    *
    Ray
    :myl
    ove
    Mbal i
    :I’
    venev erbeeninsult
    edl i
    keIwastoday
    Ray .
    ..
    ..
    wewer ecallednamesRay .
    ..
    .hecal
    l
    edus
    i
    zifebe..
    .t
    hinaRaymond. .
    ..
    .dotheyknowwho
    thefuckIam. .
    ..whereIcomef rom andwhoim
    mar
    ri
    edt
    o
    Ray
    :what
    Mbal
    i:t
    heycall
    edussacr
    if
    ici
    all
    ampsRay .
    ..
    .t
    hat
    weareweari
    ngdesi
    gnercl
    othesboughtwi
    th
    bl
    oodmoney
    Ray
    :theysai
    dwhat
    !!
    !
    Mbal
    i:
    Iaskedy ouifyou’
    resureaboutbur
    ying
    t
    hatbi
    tchRay .
    ..
    .now.
    ..
    now...
    youknowwhatf *
    ck
    t
    hem..
    .theycanburyherforall
    Icare
    *
    **Nal
    edi
    justkeptqui
    etasshedr
    ove*
    **
    Ray
    :dr
    ivet
    oJabu’
    sst
    rai
    ght.
    ..
    .wher
    eisSt
    ar
    Mbal
    i
    :she’
    stheonedr
    ivi
    ng
    Ray:dr
    ivecar
    eful
    l
    y..
    ..don’
    twor
    ryt
    heywi
    l
    lpay
    fori
    nsul
    tingy
    ou..
    .t
    heywi l
    l
    Mbali:theybett
    er.
    ..
    .i
    m noone’ssacr
    if
    ici
    all
    amp
    mina..
    ..nxawithahouset hatsmel
    lsl
    ike
    potpourrianduri
    nemi xedtoget
    her
    *
    **Nal
    edi
    laughed*
    **
    Ray:cal
    m downmyl
    ovey
    oudon’
    twantSai
    ntt
    o
    react
    Mbal
    i:may beheshould..
    ..
    theydeservetobe
    t
    aughtalesson.
    ..i
    nfactheshouldt or
    ment
    t
    hem unti
    ltheyrunmadespeci al
    lythatugl
    yfat
    f
    oolthatcall
    eduswhor esasifweoncesol d
    i
    momozi kuyenxa(p* ssytohim nxa)
    *
    **Raysi
    ghed..
    .heknowsthatwhenhi
    swifei
    s
    t
    hispi
    ssedoffSai
    ntwil
    lwakeupandreact
    ***
    Ray:myl
    ovecal
    m downanddr
    ivesaf
    ely
    ..
    .il
    ove
    you
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Nal
    edi
    :or
    epot
    pour
    rimi
    xedwi
    thwhat
    *
    **Mbal
    il
    aughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :butv
    elet
    hathousehadaf
    unnysmel
    l
    *
    **Nal
    edi
    sighed*
    **
    Naledi:i
    m wor r
    iedaboutHeath’
    s
    reacti
    on..
    .gapethathusbandofmi neke
    l
    etlhanyany ana(isali
    tt
    lecrazy
    )..
    .al
    lhel
    lwi
    l
    l
    breaklose
    Mbali
    :i
    m soangryri
    ghtnowt
    hateveni
    fhe
    deci
    destogother
    eanddealwit
    hthem I
    ’
    ll
    accompanyhi
    m
    *
    **Nal
    edi
    sighed*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :yhor
    atl
    arar
    ugi
    wat
    jo

    _
    ___

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Tiar
    aget soutoft hecarandshet akesher
    bagwith.
    ..Sincet
    heschoolsar eclosedshe
    wenttovisitMbaliherauntandt odayshewas
    boredathomesi nceMbal il
    eftinthemorningto
    got oJabu’spl
    acefort hefuner
    al ar
    rangements,
    sosheaskedMbal iifshecancomet oJabu’
    s
    placesinceHeath’
    sfirstdaughterOmphi l
    eis
    thereandtheygotot hesameschool ..
    ..

    Thegr anni esar elookingaf t


    erthebabi eswhi l
    e
    Mbal iandNal edifir
    stl
    ywentt othecat erer’
    s
    placeandt hent hey’l
    lgot oAmo’ shomef or
    Amo’ sobi tuar y(wel lthatdi dn’tgowel l)then
    theywi ll
    gopr intoutthepr ograms(whi chwi l
    l
    nothappen)andgobackt oJabu’ s...whileback
    homeThandi i
    sbusyont hephonewi ththe
    venuepeopl et henshe’ l
    lcal lt
    hef l
    oristforthe
    fl
    ower sandAmo’ sf amilywi lldealwi t
    ht he
    Priest/Past orf orthefuner al (whicht heymi ght
    notdoaf t
    ert heex changeofugl ywor ds
    betweent hem andt hedaught erinlaws) .
    ...
    .As
    fortheguy st heyar edeal ingwi ththef uneral
    parlourandt hegr aveyard. ..
    .
    Anywayshewal kedinsi
    dethehousewi t
    hher
    JBLBluet
    oot hheadphonesaroundnecklooki
    ng
    goodandshest oppedonhert r
    ackwithher
    eyespoppedoutwhenshesawMJandSbu
    si
    tti
    nginthelounge..
    ..
    Sheslowlyt
    urnedtowalk
    i
    ntothekitchenareabutSbusawher* **
    Sbu:
    heyTee
    ***
    shestoppedonhert r
    acksandwhenshe
    tur
    nedMJwasl ooki
    ngatherwithhi
    seyes
    poppedout.
    ..
    .hedidn’
    texpectt
    oseeheratal
    l
    ***
    Ti
    ara:
    hey
    ***shesai
    dwav
    ingawkwar
    dlyt
    henshel
    ooked
    atMJ* *
    *
    Ti
    ara:
    heyMJ
    *
    **hecl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    MJ:
    he.
    ..
    hey
    *
    **Sbugotupandwentt
    ogi
    veherahug*
    **
    Sbu:
    Idi
    dn’
    tknowy
    ouwer
    ecomi
    ng
    Tiar
    a:IwasboredatKhar
    i’
    spl
    acesoIaskedif
    shecanhavethedri
    verdr
    opmeofheresince
    Omphilei
    salsohere
    MJ:
    am Inotgonnar
    ecei
    veahugt
    oo
    ***shesmi l
    edawkwar dlyashewalkedtowher e
    shewasst andi ngwi t
    hSbuandshehugged
    him...
    .heclosedhi seyesashefelt
    Goosebumpsal l
    ov erhi
    sbodyandhi sheart
    beatsof astt hathet houghti
    twasgonna
    explode..
    ..
    .shet r
    iedtomov ebackbutheheld
    ont oherashi sbonergr ewinsi
    dehis
    sweatpantsandmi ndyoutheboyispackingin
    there.
    ...
    Shef eltitthenshetri
    edtomov eback
    againbuthekeptheri nplace**
    *
    MJ:
    yousmel
    lsogood
    *
    **Sbucl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Sbu:
    okl
    ett
    hepoorchi
    l
    dgoman
    ***
    MJl ethergoandshemov edbackfeel
    ing
    uncomfortabl
    e..
    .hereyesinv
    olunt
    ari
    lymovedto
    hi
    slowerbodyandy epitwasup..
    .shecl
    eared
    herthr
    oatlooki
    ngaway *
    **
    Ti
    ara:
    ummm wher
    eisOmphi
    l
    e
    Sbu:int
    hebackyar
    dwithLesedi
    .
    ...
    wel
    lshe’
    s
    probabl
    yonherphone
    MJ:Idi
    dn’tknowyouvi
    sit
    edmybr ot
    her
    ’s
    pl
    ace.
    ..
    .iwould’
    vecomether
    einst
    ead
    Ti
    ara:
    ummm excusemeguy
    s
    ***Shequickl
    ywentt
    othesl
    idi
    ngdoorl
    eadi
    ng
    tothebackyar
    dandSbuhitt
    hebackofMJ’s
    head**
    *
    MJ:
    ouchman.
    ..
    whatt
    hef
    ..
    ..
    Sbu:canyoujusthol
    dyour
    sel
    f.
    ..
    you’
    rescar
    ing
    thepoorchi
    ld
    MJ:
    damnshel
    ooksgoodman.
    ..
    .she’
    s.
    ..
    .per
    fect
    Sbu:
    Ithoughty
    ou’
    reov
    erher
    *
    **hesai
    dast
    heywentt
    osi
    tdown*
    **
    MJ:
    that
    ’smyf
    utur
    ewi
    fet
    her
    e
    *
    **Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    Sbu:keepdreami
    ng.
    ..
    .herf
    atherwi
    l
    lski
    nyou
    al
    ivebro.
    ..
    .
    MJ:Iwi l
    lfi
    ghttomakehermineunt
    ilItakemy
    l
    astbreath.
    ..
    .she’
    sgonnacar
    rymybabiesthat
    one.
    ..
    evenifitmeansweelopet
    obetoget her
    I
    ’l
    ldoit
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    sface*
    **
    Sbu:
    damn
    MJ: Imayj okearoundalotbutwi
    thheri
    mfor
    real
    ...
    .she’
    sgonnabemi ne..
    .i
    mjustwai
    ti
    ngfor
    hertogr owal i
    tt
    lethenI
    ’
    llmakemymov eagai
    n
    Sbu:that
    ’si
    fsomeboydoesn’
    tsweepof
    fher
    feet
    MJ:thatdayIwil
    lgotothedeepj
    ungl
    eof
    Congotobewitchthatguy
    ..
    ..
    .t
    hat
    ’smygi
    rl
    man.
    ..
    ..
    *
    **Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    MJ: It
    hinkgett
    ingherpregnantwil
    lmakeher
    fat
    herapproveofus..
    ..
    imeant heywon’
    tfor
    ce
    hertoabort.
    ..
    .r
    ight
    ***
    A woodenspoonl andedontopofMJ’ s
    headt henatSbu’sheadtoo.
    ..
    ..
    theyscreamed
    duckingholdi
    ngt hei
    rheadsgett
    ingoffthe
    couchandf oundJabu’smotherbehindthe
    couchandt heylookedatherwiththei
    reyes
    poppedoutaskingt hemsel
    veshowmuchshe
    heard***
    Jabu’
    smom: ut
    hiniwenanekhandael
    ikhul
    u!!
    !
    (bigheadwhatdidyousay)
    MJ:
    ouchaunt
    y
    Sbu:
    ishuuu
    *
    **hesai
    drubbi
    ngwher
    eit
    sachi
    ng*
    **
    Jabu’
    smom:
    whoar
    eyouget
    ti
    ng
    pregnant.
    ..
    .uyahlanyayi
    ni(areyoucr
    azy
    )..
    .and
    wenaSbusi soy ou’r
    eencouragi
    ng
    hi
    m. .
    .Uencourageramasi mbaSbusi
    so(you’r
    e
    encouragi
    ngsh* tSbusi
    so)
    Sbu:
    nogogo
    Jabu’
    smom:
    noy
    amasi
    mba
    *
    **Sbukeptqui
    et*
    **
    MJ:aunt
    ycomeonwewer ej
    ust
    t
    alki
    ng.
    ..
    not
    hingser
    ious
    Jabu’
    smom:
    doIl
    ookl
    i
    keaf
    ool
    toy
    ouMJ
    MJ:
    no
    Jabu’
    smom:
    comeher
    e..
    .bot
    hofy
    ou
    ***
    theyl
    ookedatherwithf
    earful
    eyest
    henthey
    l
    ookedatoneanotherandtheyshookt
    hei
    r
    headsno**
    *
    Jabu’
    smom:youknowy
    oucan’
    tout
    runmeMJ
    wit
    hthatl
    eg
    MJ: aunt
    ycomeon. .
    ..
    wear eboy sandboys
    al
    way stal
    ksnonsense..
    ..
    allt
    hat’
    sr i
    ngi
    nginour
    earsisgir
    lsgi
    rl
    sgirl
    s..
    .wewer ejustt
    alki
    ng
    aunty.
    ..
    youshouldbehappyt hatwearenotgay
    Jabu’
    smom:
    yoht
    hischi
    l
    d
    Sbu: y
    es...
    .gogocomeon..
    .wewerej
    ust
    tal
    king..
    .hewast al
    ki
    ngaboutsomegi
    rlbacki
    n
    Nigeri
    a..
    ..rightMJ
    MJ:yesyes.
    ..
    .shel
    eftfort
    heUKandwehada
    t
    hing.
    ..
    iwasjustmakingupst
    ori
    es.
    ..
    youknow
    meandstori
    esaunt
    Jabu’smom: nx..
    ..
    justgetanygirlpregnantand
    you’
    llsee..
    ..
    .i
    nfactnextyearJuneJabushoul d
    sendy outothemount ai
    n..
    .wedon’tdot hati
    n
    ourfamilybutlenay ouareanexcept i
    on. .
    ..
    .l
    eya
    komengy aMapulana(y ou’regoingtobe
    i
    niti
    atedbyMapul anat ri
    be)..
    ..
    may beifthey
    smeary oukal et
    sokuandy ougetfedpapand
    cabbaget hatdoesn’thavesaltanditscooked
    onlybywat erthosebi
    gheadofyour
    swil
    lwor
    k
    properl
    y.
    ..
    .Ley akomenglena(y
    ouaregoi
    ngto
    beinit
    iat
    ed) .
    ..mxmuistr
    uu
    *
    **shesai
    dpoint
    ingatt
    hem t
    henshel
    eft
    mumbli
    ngthi
    ngs***
    MJ: chai
    ..
    ..
    whatkindofwahalabethis.
    ..
    ..
    my
    ancestor
    skeepfaili
    ngmeooo. .
    .iwonderwhat
    di
    dIdot othem forthem t
    ofail
    mel i
    kethis.
    ..
    ..
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #T★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER32
    .
    .
    .

    MJ:
    damn
    Sbu:
    you’
    rel
    uckyy
    oudi
    dn’
    tsayhername
    MJ:
    broIt
    hinkt
    hatspoonhi
    tmybr
    ain
    *
    **hesai
    drubbi
    ngwher
    ehewashi
    t**
    *
    Sbu:
    eishandwej
    ustgotnewhai
    rcut
    s
    MJ:
    mxm
    ***
    hesai
    dli
    mpingtot
    hecouchandhesat
    downsodidSbu*
    **
    MJ:whatdi
    dshemeanwear
    egoi
    ngt
    othe
    mount
    ain
    Sbu:
    togeti
    nit
    iat
    edbr
    o
    MJ:
    wai
    twhat
    Sbu:
    mmh
    MJ:
    youmeant
    heygonnacutof
    fourd*
    cks
    *
    **Sbuwant
    edt
    olaughsobadatt
    hat
    ***
    Sbu:andall
    ourhair
    ..
    .wegonnafet
    chfi
    rewood
    andgobathinacoldriv
    erduri
    ngwint
    er.
    ..
    wel
    l
    that
    ’swhatIhear
    dhappens
    *
    **MJl
    ookedatSbuscar
    ed*
    **
    MJ:
    im Ni
    ger
    ian.
    ..
    wedon’
    tdot
    hat
    Sbu:
    hal
    fNi
    ger
    ianman.
    ..
    .hal
    fNi
    ger
    ian
    MJ: fullNiger
    ian..
    ..
    mymot herstol
    emef rom a
    Nigerianhospital.
    ..
    shegavebirt
    ht oanugly
    chil
    df rom amanshecheat edwithandshe
    switchedme. ..i
    m actual
    l
    ynotbiologi
    cal
    lyfrom
    thi
    sf ami l
    y
    *
    **Sbul
    aughed*
    **
    Sbu:
    you’
    recr
    azywena
    MJ:
    noonei
    sgoi
    ngt
    ocutof
    fmyd*
    ckmanor
    myhai
    randIdon’
    tev
    eneatcabbage
    Sbu:t
    heyci
    rcumci
    sey
    ounotcutof
    fal
    lyour
    d*ckman
    MJ: nodir
    tyoldmanwi
    lltouchmybeaut
    if
    ul
    d*ck..
    .y
    ouknowwhatim call
    ingmydadi
    m sur
    e
    hewontagr ee
    **
    *Heat hwal
    kedinfol
    l
    owedbyJabu..
    ..
    Rayi
    s
    st
    il
    l out
    sidet
    alki
    ngonthephonewi
    thMbali
    and
    Naledi*
    **
    Heat
    h:andnow
    *
    **hesai
    dashel
    ookedatapani
    cki
    ngMJ*
    **
    MJ:
    wher
    eisbr
    otherRay
    Heat
    h: brot
    herRay
    ?..
    .si
    ncewhendoy
    oucal
    l
    hi
    m brotherRay
    Sbu:
    Gogohappened
    MJ: t
    heygonnacutoffmyd* ckandmyhairand
    theygonnafor
    cemet oeatcabbagebro.
    ..
    ihate
    cabbage.
    ..
    ..
    andtheygonnaforceust
    obathin
    col
    dwat
    erduri
    ngwinter
    ..
    .doyouknowhow
    col
    dwi
    nteri
    sinSouthAfri
    ca
    Heat
    h:whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    *
    **Sbuhel
    dhi
    slaugh*
    **
    Sbu:gogosaidorei
    sakomengnexty
    earJune
    (wear egoingt
    obei
    nit
    iat
    edi
    nthemountai
    n
    nextyearJun)
    *
    **Heat
    hlaughedandJabusmi
    rked*
    **
    Heat
    h:andIsuppor
    thi
    m
    Jabu:
    met
    oo
    MJ:
    what
    ??
    Jabu:lobet
    hadi
    kgomoy aswa.
    ..
    .gaeswe
    ..
    ..
    etlagamakemangesagamekenna
    seti
    ngti
    ngsamasogana
    *
    **Heat
    hbust
    edoutwi
    thl
    aught
    er*
    **
    Sbu:
    hawt
    hai
    ma(dad)
    Jabu:
    let
    let
    sekamasepaaker
    e..
    ..
    bai
    l
    ego
    l
    entshaonakothabenglennyel
    e(t
    hey’
    ll
    take
    outtheshi
    tyou’
    reful
    lofatt
    hemountai
    n)
    *
    **hesaidwalki
    ngupstai
    rsl
    eavingHeath
    l
    aughingashefoll
    owedhim..
    ..
    .Raysoonwal
    ked
    i
    nlookingpi
    ssedandherushedupstair
    sbef
    ore
    MJcansayany t
    hing*
    **
    Ray
    :HEATH.
    ..
    JABU!
    !!
    Jabu:
    MASTER BEDROOM!
    !
    **
    *hewal
    kedinclosi
    ngt
    hedoorthenhepaced
    ar
    oundastheyl
    ookedathi
    m***
    Jabu:
    dint
    shang(what
    ’swr
    ong)
    *
    **hesatdown*
    **
    Ray
    :thi
    ngsdi
    dn’
    tgowel
    lfort
    hegi
    rl
    s
    Heath:what
    ..
    ..
    thecat
    eri
    ngcompanygav
    ethem
    t
    rouble?
    Ray
    :no.
    ..
    atAmo’
    spl
    ace
    *
    **JabuandHeat
    hlookedateachot
    her
    f
    rowni
    ng*
    **
    Heat
    h:whathappened
    ***
    hesaidtaki
    ngouthi
    sphonef
    rom hi
    s
    pocket
    ***
    Ray
    :putt
    hephoneawayHeat
    h
    *
    **Heat
    hsl
    owl
    ydi
    d**
    *
    Ray
    :theyv
    erbal
    l
    yat
    tackedt
    hem
    Heat
    h:huh.
    ..
    .v
    erbal
    l
    yat
    tackedwho’
    swi
    ves
    Jabu:
    whatdoy
    oumeanbyt
    hatbi
    gRay
    Ray:t
    hey’l
    lexpl
    ainevery
    thi
    ngwhent
    heyget
    her
    e..
    ..
    theyareontheirway
    *
    **Heat
    htookouthi
    sphone*
    **
    Ray:
    Nal
    edi
    isdr
    ivi
    ngman.
    ..
    .putt
    hatphone
    away
    *
    **hedi
    dwi
    thhi
    shear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    Jabu:Idon’
    tknowwhattheywantfr
    om
    me...
    ..
    maybetheywantmylif
    enje
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingdown*
    **
    Ray:t
    heywant edustoburyherandnowthat
    wearedoingjustthatt
    heyhaveaprobl
    em wi
    th
    howthefuneralar
    rangementaredone.
    ..
    what
    thehel
    ldotheywantf r
    om Jabu
    *
    **Heat
    hwal
    kedt
    othedoor
    ***
    Ray
    :Heat
    h
    Heat
    h:i
    m goi
    ngt
    owai
    tfort
    hem downst
    air
    s
    *
    **hewal
    kedout
    ***
    Ray:don’
    tworr
    ythatfuner
    ali
    shappening
    tomorrowandyou’
    llmoveonfrom t
    his
    sh*t
    ..
    .don’
    twor
    ry

    I
    NTHELOUNGE

    ***
    SbuandMJwenttoj
    oint
    hegirl
    sinthe
    backy
    ardwhi
    chmadeTi
    ara’
    svi
    sither
    e
    uncomfortabl
    ewhereel seMJisjusthappyto
    seeherfacetoface..
    .Anywayinthelounge
    Thandicomesf r
    om oneoft hebedrooms
    downstai
    rsandshef i
    ndsHeat hsit
    tingi
    nthe
    l
    oungealonelookinganxious**
    *
    Thandi
    :br
    odi
    ntshang(br
    owhat
    ’swr
    ong)
    ***
    Heathsi
    ghedl
    ooki
    ngatherasshesat
    down**
    *
    Heat
    h:Mbal
    iandNal
    edi
    wer
    einsul
    tedatAmo’
    s
    pl
    ace
    Thandi
    :aski
    es?
    ..
    ..
    fort
    hewhat
    Heath:i
    m wai
    ti
    ngf
    ort
    hem t
    ohearwhat
    happened
    Thandi
    :bannyel
    anxa...
    wear eherebust
    ingour
    a$$esofft
    oburytheirdaughterwhohurtmy
    brot
    herdeepl
    yandbar elebogakaskotlolosa
    masepanxa(andt heythankuswi t
    hapl at
    eful
    l
    ofsh*t
    )
    Heath:peoplekeepprov
    oki ngme
    Mathaa..
    ..
    theykeepprovokingme..
    .i
    vebeen
    behavi
    nglatelyandnowt heyarepushi
    ngmy
    butt
    onsnxa

    _
    ___

    Gaza:
    Imi
    ssy
    oumama
    Tshi
    mo:
    how’
    syourf
    ami
    l
    y
    Gaza:
    don’
    tignor
    ewhatIj
    ustsai
    d
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    mar
    aIhear
    dyoumoes
    Gaza:
    don’
    tyoumi
    ssme
    Tshi
    mo:
    Idomi
    ssy
    ou.
    ..
    happynow
    Gaza:
    no.
    ..
    .iwanty
    out
    omeani
    t
    Tshi
    mo: Ir
    eall
    ydomi ssyouGee,yourcooki
    ng
    andalwaysfeel
    ingsafewhenyouwerearound
    *
    **hesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    im happynow
    *
    **shegi
    ggl
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    yhoodr
    amat
    icbat
    hong
    Gaza:
    youmademet
    hatway
    ..
    ..
    iwasnev
    er
    dr
    amatic
    Tshi
    mo:
    yhohaedon’
    tbl
    ameme
    Gaza:
    Ibl
    amey
    ou
    ***shelaughedandhesmil
    ed..
    .shemadehi
    m
    feelnormalandhelovesf
    eel
    ingliket
    hatwi
    th
    her***
    Tshi
    mo:nowanswermyquest
    ion.
    ..
    how’
    syour
    fami
    ly
    Gaza:
    goodandNyikocoul
    dn’
    tbel
    i
    ev ei
    twhen
    hesawme..
    .he’
    sbeencli
    ngyev
    ersince
    Tshi
    mo:ncooh.
    ..
    .i
    m happy
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    ehemi
    ssed
    youdear
    ly
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:yeah...
    .imi
    ssedhimt oo..
    ..
    asformy
    youngersister
    stheycri
    edlikesomeonedi ed.
    ..
    ..
    myy oungestsist
    erkeptcalli
    ngev er
    yoneshe
    knewt otellt
    hem t
    hatim back...
    shesaidwe
    shouldarrangeahugepar t
    yf ormy
    reappear
    ance
    *
    **Tshi
    mol
    aughed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    shesoundsl
    i
    kef
    un
    Gaza:
    y eah..
    .t
    heyhav
    ebeenwor
    ri
    edandi
    m
    t
    hankfultheywerear
    oundt
    ohel
    pwit
    hNyiko
    Tshi
    mo:i
    m gl
    adyouhavepeopl
    ewhowi
    l
    l
    al
    wayshavey
    ourback
    Gaza:
    y ouhavemeasyourf
    ami
    l
    y..
    ..
    I’
    l
    lal
    way
    s
    haveyourbackmama
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edov
    ert
    hephone*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    Thanky
    ou
    Gaza:
    youdon’
    thav
    etot
    hankmebecauset
    hat
    meansyou’
    l
    lal
    way
    sthankmeev
    erydayf
    ort
    he
    r
    estofourl
    i
    ves
    Tshimo: y
    hook. .
    .hehbeforeIfor
    getthere’
    sa
    rumourher eatwor kabouttheDoctorthat
    disappearedthathereappeared
    Gaza:
    ooh.
    ..
    .wher
    ewashe
    Tshi
    mo: mabarebar
    eare(rumourssays)he
    waskidnappedbyhisbr
    other
    ’senemies
    Gaza:
    hai
    ok.
    ..
    .sohow’
    sev
    ery
    thi
    ngel
    se
    Tshi
    mo:youdon’
    tli
    kei
    twhenIt
    alkaboutot
    her
    menneh
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    mmhsocanwenev
    ert
    alkaboutt
    hem
    Tshi
    mo:
    butkegossi
    pGee
    Gaza:
    nowy
    ou’
    vet
    urnedmei
    ntoagossi
    p..
    .y
    ah
    neh
    *
    **shel
    aughedandhesmi
    l
    ed.
    ..
    hesaw
    Alphal
    ett
    eappr
    oachi
    nghol
    dingt
    wobot
    tl
    esof
    beerandabowl**
    *
    Gaza:heymamal
    et’
    stal
    klat
    er.
    ..
    ineedt
    otal
    kto
    Ntsakonow
    Tshi
    mo:
    ok.
    ..
    letmegobackt
    owor
    ktoo
    Gaza:
    mmmmhandst
    ayawayf
    rom gossi
    p
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Tshimo:nev
    er.
    ..
    im al
    onersogossi
    pkeepsme
    enter
    tai
    ned
    Gaza:
    Ineedt
    ocomebackbef
    orey
    oubecome
    mamghobozi
    (agossi
    p)
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    nakor
    andz
    amama.
    ..
    lat
    er
    ***
    hequickl
    yendedthecall
    rightasAl
    phalet
    te
    satnextt
    ohim andgavehim onebott
    leandthe
    bowlfi
    ll
    edwithpeanut
    s**
    *
    Ny
    iko:
    daddyl
    ook
    ***
    heshowedhi
    mthatheal
    mostbeathi
    s
    score*
    **
    Gaza:
    eishy
    ouar
    eal
    mostt
    her
    e..
    ..
    tr
    yagai
    n
    **
    *hesai
    dbr
    ushi
    nghi
    sheadandNy
    iko
    smil
    ed*
    **
    Ny
    iko:
    I’
    ll
    beaty
    ourscor
    eyou’
    l
    lsee
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    mmht
    ryagai
    nandl
    et’
    ssee
    Ny
    iko:
    I’
    ll
    beati
    tyou’
    l
    lsee
    *
    **hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingdownonhi
    schai
    ragai
    n**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    he’
    shappy
    Gaza:
    mmmmh
    *
    **t
    heykeptqui
    etf
    orabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    whyAmo
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    shebr
    okeJabu.
    ..
    sheneededt
    ogo
    Al
    pha:
    butt
    hatwasnoty
    ourcal
    ltomake
    Gaza:
    it’
    sneverany
    one’
    scal
    ltomakebutI
    madeitanyway
    *
    **hesai
    danddr
    ankhi
    sbeer
    ***
    Alpha:whatifhefindsout
    ..
    ..
    hehaspowerf
    ul
    fri
    endswhomi ghtnowknowt haty
    ou’
    re
    responsi
    ble
    Gaza:so.
    ..
    .l
    ookAl pha..
    .idi
    dit
    ..
    .i
    t’
    sdone..
    ..
    Jabu
    i
    sfreeandshegotwhatwascomi ngto
    her.
    ..
    .wecantgobackandundoi tsolet
    ’sjust
    mov eon.
    ..
    ifJavasfindsoutthenhedid.
    ..i
    fthey
    tel
    lhimthentheydidcauseIcan’tchangewhat
    Idi
    dandIdon’ tregreti
    tonebit
    Alpha:y
    ou’
    regoi
    ngbackt
    oyourol
    dhear
    tl
    ess
    selfGee
    Gaza:Ishouldn’
    thav
    etri
    edtochangei
    nthe
    fi
    rstpl
    ace..
    .l
    ookwerechangi
    ngforawomandi
    d
    t
    ome
    *
    **Al
    phakeptqui
    etshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    youdi
    dn’
    thav
    etoi
    nvol
    veRoot
    Gaza:
    theny
    oudef
    ini
    tel
    ydon’
    tknowt
    her
    eal
    Root
    Al
    pha:
    hewasani
    nkabi
    (ahi
    tman)
    Gaza:was?
    **
    *hechuckl
    edt
    hent
    ookanot
    hersi
    pfr
    om hi
    s
    dr
    ink*
    **
    Gaza:
    anywayhelli
    swher
    ewear
    egoi
    ng.
    ..
    if
    t
    here’
    ssuchaplace
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ejustshookhi
    shead*
    **
    Al
    pha:yout
    wowi
    l
    lmakemegetol
    dqui
    ckl
    yI
    swear
    ..
    ..
    .
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:youl
    ikebei
    ngseriousNt
    sakoandy ou
    worryt
    oomuch. .
    ..
    li
    fei
    stooshort
    ..
    ..
    tomorrow
    youmightwakeupdeadandy ou’
    llr
    efl
    ecton
    howy ouwast
    edy ourl
    ifeworr
    yingabout
    ever
    yoneandeverythi
    ngelseandyounevergot
    toenj
    oyyourl
    ife
    Gaza:weknowt hateverybaddeci
    sionwe
    makehasi t
    sownconsequencessowor ry
    aboutTshepo,Nyi
    koandAJandst opworryi
    ng
    aboutusasifarecluel
    essabouthowt heworld
    works.
    ..
    .weareoldenought oknowrightf
    rom
    wrong
    Al
    pha:
    andy
    oust
    il
    lchoset
    hewr
    ongt
    hings
    Gaza: mmmmhcausei t’
    smydeci si
    onbutt hat
    doesn’tmeany ouropinionoradvicesarenot
    wel comedasl ongasy oudon’tj
    udgeme. ..
    .i
    maychooset ot akeyouradv i
    ceornot ,t
    hat’
    sup
    tomesodon’ tforcethings..
    .l
    etmeandMpande
    makeourownmi st
    akessowel earnfrom
    them. .
    .att
    heendoft hedayonj udgementday
    I
    ’llanswerformysi nsal oneyouwon’ tbethere
    tohav emybackorspeakf orme...idon’
    tknow
    i
    fy ougetme
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngathi
    m andAl
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:Any
    wayIwanttosendalet
    tertoMasai
    ’
    s
    famil
    ybutihav
    en’
    taskedhert
    omar ryme
    *
    **Gazakeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Gaza:
    that
    ’sgoodsowhenar
    eyougonnaask
    her
    Al
    pha:
    Iwantt
    obut
    ..
    .
    *
    **hekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Gaza:
    butwhat
    Al
    pha:
    Ifeel
    li
    kesh*
    t
    Gaza:
    aboutwhatnow
    Alpha: Iwasr eadytomar r
    yanot herwoman. ...
    i
    didn’tconsiderherf eel
    ingsi ntoallthat.
    ..
    ..
    i
    clai
    mt oloveherwi thallmyhear tbutIwas
    will
    ingt ohurtherlikethat…Iswearhermot her
    wasgonnaki llme…shewar nedbet hati
    fIev er
    hurtherI ’
    ll
    dieasl owpai nful death…ont opof
    thatIneedt opaydamagesandal soi nt
    roduce
    AJt
    omyancest
    ors
    **
    *Alphasai
    dwi t
    haheavyhear
    tandGaza
    di
    dn’
    tsayanyt
    hing,hej
    ustdr
    ankhi
    sbeer*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    im ana$$neh
    **
    *hewhisper
    edsoNy
    ikowon’
    theart
    hecur
    se
    word*
    **
    Gaza:yeahyouare.
    ..
    .iknowy ouAlpha..
    ..
    i
    wasn’
    twr ongwheniwar nedy outostopwhenit
    comest oTshi
    mo...
    .t
    hef acti
    sIt r
    ustyouwith
    mylif
    eandmyson’ sli
    f ebutIdon’tt
    rustyou
    wit
    hher
    Alpha:Idon’
    twantherGeeit’
    sall
    manipul
    ati
    on,
    Ididn’
    tknowbutnowt hatIknowital
    lmakes
    sense.
    ...
    myheartbeat
    sf orMasai
    Gaza:y
    etyouwerewil
    l
    ingtomarryTshimoand
    you’
    vebeenact
    ingl
    i
    keaj eal
    ousex-
    lover
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    itsmani
    pul
    ati
    onGee.
    ..
    it
    ’snotl
    ove
    Gaza: whatifherancestorsput sinmor eforce
    andy oucan’tholdyourself.
    ..
    ..
    I’v
    ebeenbet rayed
    befor
    eNt sakoy ouknowt hat.
    ..
    .ican’tgo
    thr
    ought hatagaineveni fit
    ’snoty our
    i
    ntentionsory ou’
    rebeenmani pulatedtodo
    so.
    ...
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed.
    ..
    thi
    swasbad*
    **
    Alpha:t
    henwhatshoul
    dIdotopr
    ovet
    oyou
    thatIwon’
    tbet
    rayyoul
    iket
    hat
    Gaza:
    Idon’tknowcauseasl
    ongasshe’
    spar
    t
    ofmyli
    feyou’l
    lmeether
    *
    **Al
    phaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Alpha:
    ithur
    tst
    oknowt
    haty
    oudon’
    ttr
    ustme
    anymore
    Gaza:
    wit
    hherbutIdot
    rusty
    ouwi
    thmyl
    i
    fe.
    ..
    **
    *Alphal
    ett
    edi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngt
    henhe
    si
    ghed***
    Al
    pha:
    im goi
    ngbackt
    omor
    row
    mor
    ning.
    ..
    Masai
    hasbeendi
    schar
    ged
    Gaza:ok..
    ..
    I’
    l
    lcomenextweekwit
    hNyi
    ko.
    ..
    .i
    m
    gonnatryandconv
    inceGlor
    iat
    ohavet
    hatpart
    y
    nextweekandnotthi
    sweekend
    *
    **Al
    phachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    soy
    ouappr
    oveoft
    hepar
    ty
    Gaza:y
    eah.
    ..
    .t
    heyneedit
    ..
    ..
    it
    ’sbeensome
    hect
    icfewmonthsf
    orthem
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    .wai
    twhynextweek
    Gaza:I’
    llcomebackwithTshimo...
    ..
    sheneeds
    t
    obeher efort
    hepart
    y..
    ..
    she’spartoft
    he
    reasonthepartyi
    shappening..
    .y
    oushouldbri
    ng
    Masai andAJtoo
    Al
    pha:
    ok
    Gaza:wewillbefi
    ne..
    .wenajustkeepfi
    ghti
    ng
    thi
    smanipulati
    onandwewon’ thavea
    probl
    em..
    ..
    Masai hasbeenthroughalotshe
    doesn’
    tdeserveaheartbr
    eakf r
    om you
    Al
    pha:
    Iknow
    Gaza:
    good
    **
    *Gazalookedathissonandhesmil
    ed..
    ..
    he
    l
    ookedjustl
    ikehim whenhehasaser
    iouslook
    onhisf
    ace..
    ..hi
    scarboncopy
    ..
    .hi
    shei
    r**
    *
    Gaza:
    I’
    ll
    makebot
    hoft hem happy
    ..
    ..i
    m gonna
    begoodfort
    hem.
    ..
    .iwon’tt
    urnevi
    lforthem
    ***Al
    phadi
    dn’tsayanythi
    ngcausehewas
    shownhowev ilt
    hatthi
    nginsi
    deofhi
    mi s.
    ..
    he
    wisheshecouldagreetogetr
    idofi
    t**
    *

    _
    ___

    TAREK(NARRATED)

    ***
    Heref
    usedt
    obeadmit
    tedatthehospi
    tal
    andnowhe’
    sathi
    spar
    ent
    s’houseandhis
    fatheri
    sst i
    ll
    notyetbackhome. .
    ..
    Hel i
    edtohis
    mot herthathewasmuggedandheev en
    refusedtoopenacaseatt hepoli
    ce
    stati
    on..
    ..Heaskedhisfri
    endDumat ogoand
    fetchhiscarandbringitathisparent
    ’shouse
    ***
    Tar
    ek:
    he’
    sluckyhecaughtmeof
    fguar
    dnxa
    Duma:
    whydon’
    tyouf
    ocusonSamkeandyour
    chi
    l
    dandl
    eaveHi
    ll
    sman..
    .l
    ookaty
    ounow
    Tar
    ek:
    whatdoy oumeanleaveher.
    ..
    .t
    hat
    ’smy
    wif
    eman.
    ..
    .ipai
    ddowryforher.
    ..
    she’
    smine
    Duma:
    wel
    li
    tlooksl
    i
    keshehasmov
    edon
    Tar
    ek:wi
    ththatt
    hing.
    ..
    thatt
    hingt
    hat
    ’sbel
    ow
    mylev
    el.
    ..
    ngeke
    Duma: wel
    lthatt
    hingbeatt
    hecrapoutof
    you..
    .t
    hosekindofpeopl
    eli
    vesandbreat
    hes
    vi
    olenceman
    Tar
    ek:
    foseki
    m notscar
    edofhi
    m mi
    na.
    ..
    .he
    j
    ustcaughtmeof
    fguar
    dnj
    e
    *
    **Dumal
    aughed*
    **
    Duma: onaseriousnoteman....
    youmessed
    up..
    .j
    ustacceptdefeatandmov eon.
    ..
    .y
    ouhur t
    herman...
    .t
    hatgirl
    lovedy out
    oapointthatshe
    eventookabulletforyouandwhatdidyou
    do..
    ..
    youbrokeherhear t
    *
    **Tar
    eksi
    ghed*
    **
    Duma:
    wenadoy ouseeherfor
    givi
    ngyouand
    gi
    vi
    ngyourmar
    ri
    ageanotherchance
    Tarek:shehast oDuma. .
    .she’
    smywi f
    e
    man...
    everymar r
    iagegoest hrough
    chall
    enges..
    .sheneedstor eali
    set hatandonce
    shedoeswewi llfi
    xthi
    ngs...
    .ibel
    ieveso..
    ..
    i
    knowshest il
    llovesme
    Duma:
    thenwhataboutSamke
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:
    im gonnakeepl
    yi
    ngt
    oherunt
    ilshegi
    ves
    bi
    rt
    hthenaf
    tert
    hatI
    ’
    llt
    ellherstr
    aightupt
    hat
    I
    ’v
    echangedmymind..
    ..
    .idon’
    twantasecond
    wif
    e
    Duma:
    youcantbeser
    iousman
    Tar
    ek:
    im ser
    iousasahear
    tatt
    ack.
    ..
    ..
    .im not
    l
    osi
    ngHil
    lsoverthatl
    owcl
    assfool
    ...
    ..never
    !!
    !
    Duma:tel
    lmehere,youdon’twantt
    oloseHil
    l
    s
    overt
    hatmanory oujustdon’
    twanttol
    oseher
    causeyouregr
    etever
    y t
    hing
    Tarek:t
    hatshoul
    dn’
    tmatter
    ..
    .whatmatt
    ersi
    s
    she’smineandIwannakeepitthatway
    *
    **Dumashookhi
    sheaddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Tar
    ek:andasforthatf
    oolIm gonnadeal
    wi t
    h
    hi
    m...
    hedoesn’
    tknowme. .
    ..
    byt het
    imeim done
    wit
    hhim he’
    l
    lsel
    lthoseugly
    ,lowclasscl
    othes
    hewaswearingatataxir
    ankjusttobuy
    somethi
    ngtoeatnxa
    .
    .
    .

    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER33
    .
    .
    .

    ATJABU’
    SHOUSE
    Mbaliwal kedinsi
    dethehousebar
    efoot
    ed
    holdi
    ngherheel sinthehandsf
    oll
    owedby
    Naledi
    ...
    .Heathquickl
    ygotupandhewentto
    hiswifewhi l
    eRaygotupandwentt ohi
    swif
    e
    too***
    Heat
    h:ar
    eyouok
    **
    * hesai
    dcuppi
    ngherfacel
    ooki
    ngi
    ntoher
    eyesandshenodded*
    **
    Heat
    h:di
    dtheyt
    ouchy
    ou
    Nal
    edi
    :noj
    usti
    nsul
    ts
    **
    *heclosedhi
    sey esclenchi
    nghi
    sjawst
    hen
    heopenedthem again*
    * *
    Heat
    h:i
    m sor
    ryobi
    m
    Nal
    edi
    :i
    tsok.
    ..
    .i
    mfi
    nebaby
    **
    *hekissedherli
    ps.
    ..
    whi
    leRaypull
    edMbal
    ito
    si
    tdownaf t
    ergiv
    ingherati
    ghthuganda
    ki
    ss**
    *
    Mbal
    i
    :bat
    hiwear
    esacr
    if
    ici
    all
    amps.
    ..
    .sacr
    if
    ici
    al
    l
    ampsimagine.
    ..
    .measacr
    if
    ici
    all
    ampanda
    t
    rophywi
    fe
    Ray
    :what
    ..
    ..
    isweari
    m bei
    ngt
    est
    edher
    e
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Mbali
    :bat
    hiwear
    eweari
    ngdesignercl
    othes
    boughtwi
    thbl
    oodmoneynxa.
    ..
    jeal
    ousfools
    *
    **shecl
    i
    ckedhert
    ongue*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    : t
    hatst
    upidoldf
    oolwit
    habi gbell
    ysaid
    t
    oNaledit
    hathe’
    ll
    slaptheal
    bini
    sm offher
    i
    magi
    ne
    Heat
    h:what
    *
    ***hesai
    dlooki
    ngatMbal
    iwi
    thascar
    y
    f
    rown***
    Mbal
    i:mmh....
    theyweremeant ous
    Heat
    h..
    .ev
    enMo’ smot herwassomehow
    t
    owardsus..
    .shedidn’
    tevenrepri
    mandt
    hem
    Thandi
    :whydi
    dn’
    tIgowi
    thy
    oumar
    a..
    .ei
    sh
    *
    **shesai
    dget
    ti
    ngup*
    **
    Mbali
    :measacri
    fi
    ciallampnxa.
    ..
    ..
    bayany
    a
    shem..
    ..
    cal
    l
    ingusi
    zifebeasift
    heyoncef*ck*
    d
    usnxa
    ***shesaidgett
    ingupandwal ki
    ngawayand
    Rayfoll
    owedher .
    ..
    .Heat
    hsearchedforhi
    scar
    keysinhispocketsandhefoundthem...
    Jabu
    grabbedhisarm***
    Jabu:yourwi
    feneedsy
    ou.
    ..
    .wewi
    l
    ldeal
    wit
    h
    them l
    ater
    ***
    helookedatJabubreat
    hingheavil
    yandhe
    sawNalediwal
    kingawayandhesi ghedand
    gaveJabuthecarkey
    sandhef oll
    owedher***
    Jabu:yhosat
    anwangl
    ekast
    rai
    ght(sat
    ani
    s
    test
    ingme)
    Thandi
    :Iwi
    shIwentwit
    hthem...
    .nakot
    huba
    mothomokgabakafei
    shatlat
    sebobeteka
    di
    nkonxa
    *
    **shesai
    dangr
    il
    y**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NONEOFTHEBEDROOMS
    ***
    Mbalii
    swashinghermakeupoffi
    ntheen-
    sui
    tbat
    hroom whenRaywalksi
    n**
    *
    Ray
    :youok
    ***sheshookherheadnoasshewi peswater
    offherfaceandhepull
    edhercl
    oserandtears
    randownhercheeks..
    ..
    hewipedthem of
    fand
    perkedherli
    ps**
    *
    Ray
    :Il
    ovey
    ou
    Mbal
    i
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thasadt
    one*
    **
    Ray
    :theygonnabesor
    ryf
    ori
    nsul
    ti
    ngy
    ou
    *
    **sher
    est
    edherheadonhi
    schest
    ***
    Mbal
    i
    :Iknow
    Ray:andt
    heydon’
    tknowi
    mthesacr
    if
    ici
    all
    amp
    her
    ecauseim aty
    ourmer
    cy
    *
    **shegi
    ggl
    edandhesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Ray:
    evenSai
    ntknowsnev
    ert
    omakemommy
    angr
    y
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :im nott
    hatbad
    Ray
    :real
    l
    y
    Mbal
    i
    :mmmmhy
    ouguy
    sjustl
    i
    kepr
    ovoki
    ngme
    nj
    e
    Ray
    :causey
    ou’
    reeasi
    l
    ypr
    ovoked
    *
    **shepi
    nchedhi
    m andhey
    elpedandshe
    l
    aughed*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NANOTHERBEDROOM

    Heat
    h:y
    ouok
    ***
    hesaidl
    ooki
    ngatherasshet
    ookof
    fher
    shoes*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :yeahi
    m goodbaby
    Heat
    h:i
    m sor
    ry
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edl
    ooki
    ngathi
    m**
    *
    Nal
    edi
    :don’
    tbe.
    ..
    .i
    m ok..
    .het
    houghthe’
    l
    lhur
    t
    mebysayi
    ngthataboutmyalbi
    nism
    *
    **shechuckl
    edshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :buthedi
    dn’
    t.
    ..
    .myhusband,chi
    l
    drenand
    myinl
    awslovesmethewayIam sohecango
    scr
    ewhimsel
    fwit
    hhisbi
    gfatbell
    y
    *
    **Heat
    hsmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :butIhat
    ethattheycal
    ledussacr
    if
    ici
    al
    l
    ampsandtrophywiv
    es...
    youshoul
    dhaveseen
    howtheylookedatuswhenweent
    ered.
    ..
    even
    them gr
    eeti
    ngusbackwasfor
    ced.
    ..
    mxm
    *
    **hewentandsatnextt
    oher
    ***
    Heat
    h:oohwel
    lf*
    ckt
    hem al
    l
    Nal
    edi
    :aargenoughaboutt
    hem.
    ..
    ineedsome
    l
    ovi
    ngfrom myhubby.
    ..
    mybodyi
    stensebaby
    *
    **Heat
    hsmi
    l
    edl
    i
    kear
    etar
    d**
    *
    Nal
    edi:
    nott
    hatki
    ndofl
    ovi
    nghaw.
    ..
    .wear
    ein
    mourni
    ng
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Heat
    h:mour
    ningf
    orwho
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Naledi
    :susteri
    nlawhaw.
    ..
    .gakenyakego
    tshwarakemakgomenna(Idon’twanttohav
    e
    badluck).
    ..
    imtoocut
    efort
    hat
    ***
    Heat
    hlaughedoutloud..
    ..
    ..
    ..
    afterhecal
    med
    downhelookedatherwithalovingsmileonhi
    s
    f
    ace..
    ..
    helovesherandhecan’ti
    magi
    nehi
    slif
    e
    wi
    thoutherandhe’shappyshehasgr
    ownfrom
    acrybabytothi
    sstrongwoman***
    Heat
    h:Il
    ovey
    ouobi
    m
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edshy
    ly*
    **
    Nal
    edi
    :Il
    ovey
    out
    oo
    ***
    hepull
    edhert ohi
    schestandhekissedthe
    topofherhead..
    ..
    hecl
    enchedhisjawsthi
    nking
    aboutwhathe’sgonnadotothatuncl
    e***
    .
    .
    .
    Jabu:
    wher
    ear
    eyou.
    ..
    whyar
    en’
    tyouher
    e
    ***HejustcalledLorraine..
    ..
    .Hegotacallfr
    om
    Jaytell
    inghi mthatKennyj ustboardedaf l
    i
    ght
    toGautengandt hat’
    swhenher emembered
    thatLorraineissti
    ll
    ar ound..
    ..hefel
    tli
    kesh*t
    whenher eali
    sedthathe’ sbeenneglecti
    ng
    her.
    ...
    Asf orLorraineshehasbeenscar edt o
    callhim becauseofwhathappenedwhenLi le
    passedaway .
    ..
    .shet houghtshewasgonnabe
    blamedagai nsoshej ustconcentratedon
    managi ngherbusi nesswhi l
    eshe’st hi
    sside
    andal sokeepingbusybydr aft
    ingapr oposal
    forabr anchshewannahav ethissidefor
    possibleinvest
    or sshe’sgonnaappr oachf or
    funding***
    Loll
    y:ummm It
    houghtIshoul
    dgi
    vey
    ousome.
    ..
    .
    space
    *
    **hef
    rowned*
    **
    Jabu:
    spacef
    orwhatnowLor
    rai
    ne
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    ly:t
    hel astti
    meIcamet ooff
    ermy
    condolencesitdidn’
    tgowell
    soIwasscar
    edt
    o
    beallupiny ourfaceagai
    n
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thal
    owt
    oneandhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    Iapol
    ogi
    sedmar
    aLol
    l
    y
    Lol
    ly
    :Iknowokbuteish.
    ..
    ..
    iguessIgotscared
    butI
    ’vebeencommunicat
    ingwithThandiand
    Sbuandim gonnacomeforthefuner
    al
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:weonlyspoketwicesincethatdayJabu
    thenIheardaboutAmo’ spassi
    ngandy ou’
    ve
    beenquietsoIthoughtIshouldj
    ustkeepaway
    andgiveyouspace...
    wellatl
    eastunti
    laft
    erthe
    funer
    alorifyoucall
    fir
    stsoIdon’tcatchstr
    ay
    bull
    etsl
    ikethelastt
    ime
    *
    **hebr
    ushedhi
    shead*
    **
    Loll
    y:don’
    tworryaboutit
    ..
    .wearecool
    .
    ...
    sohow
    areyou..
    .i
    m sor
    ryforyourloss
    Jabu:
    Ineedt
    oseeyou.
    ..
    .Amo’
    sfami
    l
    ybat
    let
    se
    kamasepa(t
    heyar
    eful
    lofsh*
    t)
    Lol
    l
    y:t
    heygi
    vi
    ngy
    out
    roubl
    e?
    Jabu:
    mor
    ethant
    hat
    ..
    ..
    ineedt
    oseey
    ouLol
    l
    y..
    .i
    needy
    oucl
    oser
    ..
    ..
    assombl
    i
    ef
    Lol
    l
    y:osur
    e
    Jabu:
    100
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:ok
    Jabu:Ruuot l
    afet
    aaot
    seya(Ruuwil
    lpi
    ckyou
    up).
    ..
    .he’sonhi
    swaysogetr
    eadyandtake
    ever
    ythingyagao
    ***
    hecantt
    ell
    heraboutKennycauseheknows
    she’
    sfr
    eakout**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:umm ok.
    ..
    .butwhyRuuJabu.
    ..
    .hescar
    es
    me
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:Ruugaanaf
    lopo(Ruudoesn’
    thav
    ea
    probl
    em)
    Lol
    l
    y:he’
    stooser
    ious
    Jabu:
    andf
    ri
    endl
    ytoo
    Lol
    l
    y:ai
    ket
    lar
    eng(whatcanIsay
    )
    Jabu:y
    ou’
    ll
    playagameonyourphonet
    he
    wholewayi
    fyoufeel
    uncomf
    ortabl
    e
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:hai
    okgeh
    Jabu:
    andLol
    l
    y
    Lol
    l
    y:mmmmh
    Jabu:haar dekawhathappenedt hattimeand
    whatIsai d..
    .iknowkef l
    opi
    leblaen. .
    .idon’
    t
    wanty out olivekadai denginy ou...
    .youdidn’
    t
    deserveit,neket lhakatl
    hakanekel eamess
    kesnat abagor ekehur t(
    a)mang. ..
    ..
    ieven
    endeduphur tingmyson. ..
    .idon’twanty outo
    fearbeingar oundmegekeseshap. .
    ..
    iact
    uall
    y
    wanty out obear oundme. ..
    .
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etget
    ti
    ngemot
    ional
    ***
    Jabu:
    reshapr
    ight
    Lol
    l
    y:y
    eah.
    ..
    letmegetr
    eadyt
    hen
    Jabu:
    okseey
    ouwheny
    ougether
    e
    Lol
    l
    y:andnohugs.
    ..
    akeny akegotshwar
    ake
    makgomenna(Idon’twannahavebadluck)
    *
    **Jabul
    aughed*
    **
    Jabu:
    tsekwaphapha
    ***
    shel
    aughedandt
    heyendedt
    hecal
    lthen
    Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    eish
    *
    **hewal
    kedt
    owher
    eHeat
    his*
    **
    Heat
    h:sheok
    Jabu:
    yeah.
    ..
    obat
    langt
    hissi
    de
    Heath:
    Idon’
    tknowaslongashe’
    snother
    efor
    heroryout
    henIdon’
    tcare
    Jabu:
    kooremot
    hohagemeny
    ana.
    ..
    it
    sone
    dramaaf
    tert
    heother
    Heat
    h:ei
    sh
    *
    **Jabu’
    sphoner
    angagai
    nandhedi
    dn’
    t
    recogni
    zethenumber
    sbutheanswer
    ed
    anyway***
    Jabu:
    sho
    Man:
    sho.
    ..
    keJabu?
    Jabu:
    whowant
    stoknow
    Man:
    itsmeAmo’
    sbr
    other
    ***
    helookedatHeat
    handheputt
    hephoneon
    speaker
    ***
    Jabu:
    sho.
    ..di
    ntshang
    A’s.
    brot
    her
    :fi
    rstofal
    lsorryaboutwhat
    happenedt
    oday..
    ..
    ij
    ustfoundoutnow..
    ..
    eish
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    A’s.
    brother
    :akepartyathatci
    rcushappening
    athome. .
    ..
    nnai
    mjustliv
    ingmyl i
    fe.
    ..Idon’t
    wanty outhi
    nki
    mi nsupportofwhatt heyare
    doing.
    ...
    Jabu:
    ok
    A’s.
    brother
    :al
    lIwantistoburymyy ounger
    sist
    erandtheculpr
    itstobearrest
    edt henwe
    mov eonsokev rai
    salocat
    iony avenuefort
    he
    funeral
    servi
    ce
    *
    **Jabul
    ookedatHeat
    h**
    *
    Jabu:
    theyar
    esayi
    ngIgoty
    oursi
    ster
    ki
    ll
    ed.
    ..
    wenaoreng
    A’s.br
    other:varekegor eAmochanged. ..
    .she
    stoppedbeingt hatsoftspokenshysi sterof
    mi ne.
    ..
    lemamazal aagr eedwi thme...
    .sheused
    togetphonecal l
    sandshewoul danswer
    secretl
    y..
    ..
    Shewoul dnotsl eepathome
    somet i
    mesandmamazal awoul dcallmet o
    comeandt al
    kt ohercauseshewasst il
    la
    mar ri
    edwomanandwhenIdi dshewoul dbe
    coldorlashoutatme. .
    ..shewoul dsayIshould
    stayoutofherbusi nesscauseshe’ stryingto
    sav ehermarr i
    age..
    ..
    .soy ah.
    ..
    .shechanged
    drasti
    call
    y..
    ..
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    A’s.
    brot
    her:It
    hinkhershadyphonecal l
    sand
    shadymeetupsgotherki l
    led..
    ..
    .nnaIjustwant
    toburyherandmov eonmf owethu.
    ..
    .kezamil
    e
    *
    **JabusighedandHeat
    hcl
    ickedhis
    t
    ongue..
    .hewassodonewit
    hallthi
    sAmo
    t
    hing*
    ***
    A’s.brother :andJabu. .
    ..
    mamazal ai
    sinfluenced
    byaunt yleuncl e.
    ..shehasnev erbeeni n
    suppor tofwhatAmowasdoi ngandshewoul d
    nev ersuppor tall
    thisnonsenset hat’
    s
    happeni ngnow. ..
    .ev ersi
    ncet hosetwocame
    backi nt oourl i
    veskemat hatafela(i
    tsone
    troubleaf tertheot her )
    ..
    ..
    Icantev enstaymo
    gae(her eathome)f oroveranhourbecause
    theycont roleverythingandmamal ets
    them. .
    .imt heonlysonher ebutmyopi nion
    doesn’ tmat t
    erany mor esi ncetheycame. .
    ..
    .we
    talkedlemamazal agor ewewi l
    lburyAmo
    our sel
    v est henbaf i
    tlha(theycame)and
    ev
    ery
    thi
    ngchanged
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    A’s.
    brot
    her:any
    wayI
    ’
    llwai
    tfort
    hel
    ocat
    ionof
    thevenue.
    ..
    shap
    *
    **t
    henhedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landJabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Heat
    h:he’
    sluckynxa
    ***
    hewalkedawayandJabusav
    edhi
    s
    number
    s***

    _
    ___

    ***
    Hill
    sphonerangasshewal kedinsi
    deher
    bouti
    que..
    ..
    shetookitoutofherhandbagand
    answeredwavingatheremployeeswithasmile
    goingtoheroff
    ice*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hel
    l
    o
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    .
    ...
    howar
    eyou
    *
    **shef
    rowned*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im goodandy
    our
    sel
    f?
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:y
    ousounddi
    ff
    erentwhyt
    hechanged
    accent
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    bat
    hong
    Mpande:
    any
    wayukuphi
    (wher
    ear
    eyou)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whyar
    eyouaski
    ng
    Mpande:
    ukuphi
    ntokazi
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hil
    ls:
    whatdoyouwantMpandeormay
    beTarek
    gotyouarr
    est
    edandyou’
    recal
    l
    ingmefr
    om t
    he
    pol
    icest
    ati
    on?
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Mpande:hi
    sreputat
    ionisont
    hel
    i
    nesohe
    won’
    tgetmear r
    ested.
    ..
    .
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youdon’
    tknowTar
    ekwena.
    ..
    .he’
    sgonna
    comeaf
    tery
    ou
    Mpande:
    Iwouldl
    iket
    oseehi
    mtr
    y..
    ..
    soukhuphi
    (wher
    eareyou)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    atoneofmybout
    iques
    Mpande:
    whi
    chone
    Hil
    ls:
    Mpandey oushoul
    dbegi
    vi
    ngmey our
    bankaccountsoIpayyouf
    ory
    ourcar
    ’srepai
    rs
    Mpande:
    canwegooutanddi
    scusst
    hat
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    byeMpande
    ***
    shedroppedt
    hecal
    lrol
    l
    ingherey
    es.
    ..
    ..
    her
    phoner
    angagainandi
    twashim***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    cany
    oust
    opcal
    l
    ingme
    Mpande:
    tel
    lmewher
    eyouar
    eandI
    ’
    llst
    op
    Hil
    l
    s:no..
    ..i
    fyoucal
    lmeagai
    nI’
    l
    lbl
    ocky
    our
    numbers.
    ...
    Mpande:IguessIhav
    etof
    indy
    oumy
    sel
    fthen
    ..
    ..
    .seey
    oul at
    er
    Hil
    l
    s:l
    atery
    aeng.
    ..
    Mpandey
    ou’
    rebei
    ngwei
    rd
    now
    *
    **hedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landshesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhot
    hisguy
    ***Well t
    heoutingtheywentt oaf terhebeat
    thecrapoutTar ekwasabi tawkwar df orherat
    fi
    rstbutwhenhest ar
    tedt el
    li
    ngherf unny
    stori
    esofwhenhewasst i
    llat axi driv
    erandshe
    wasbusyl aughinghera$$of fi tbecamel ess
    awkwar dandsheenj oyedher self...
    .Shecoul d
    seehewasn’ tabadper sonbutshest i
    lldoesn’t
    understandwhyhe’ sbusyav oidingt heacci dent
    i
    ssue...
    .ever
    ytimeshespeaksaboutpay inghim
    hechangest het opi
    c..
    .Hesendheramassage
    andshesi ghedopeningi tandi tread...
    * *
    *
    Mpande:“any
    thi
    ngspeci
    fi
    cIshoul
    dbr
    ingf
    or
    yount
    okazi
    ”
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhohaah.
    ..
    .igi
    veupshem
    *
    **shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    fassheputherphone
    down*
    **

    _
    ___

    ***Moer awokeupf rom ani ghtmar eanhour


    ago...
    .shehasbeendr eami ngofSel inaalot
    l
    ately,it
    sli
    keshe’ shaunt ingheri nher
    dreams. .
    ..
    .Shewoul ddream bei nginher
    kit
    chenwashi ngdirtydishesandshewoul dget
    acol dchil
    l r
    undownherspi neandwhenshe
    turnedshewoul dfi
    ndhersi tt
    ingonherchai r
    ti
    det oit.
    ..
    .shewoul dscr eam frozenont hespot
    andSel i
    nawoul dst artbycr yi
    ngt henshewoul d
    l
    aughoutl oudwi t
    hbl oodcomi ngoutofher
    mout hthenMoer awoul dwakeupsweat ingand
    pantingscar edtodeat h..
    ...
    Ontopofital
    lshe’sstressedbyDrench..
    ..
    .she
    sti
    ll
    regr
    etsaski
    ngf orhishelp.
    ..
    shewishesshe
    askedhel
    pfrom hermot herorheruncle.
    ..
    .Well
    shewentt oseeheruncl eyest
    erdaytoaskfor
    helpconcer ningDrenchandbeforeshegotout
    ofthecarsher ecei
    vedaphonecal lf
    rom
    Drencht ell
    inghertogobackt oherapartment
    thatinstantifsheknowswhat ’
    sgoodf or
    her.
    ...
    .shewat chedasherunclestoodbyhi s
    doorconf usedasshedr ov
    eoffwithouteven
    sayinghi tohim andshehasbeeni gnori
    nghis
    call
    ssi ncethencauseshedoesn’ tevenknow
    whatl i
    et otellhi
    mf orhimtobeli
    evehercause
    heknowshert oowell*
    **
    Moera:Al
    exwhydidy
    ouleav
    eme.
    ..
    .whydi
    dyou
    di
    e..
    ..
    .imi
    ssyousomuch
    ***
    shesaidastear
    srandownhercheeksas
    shehuggedherknees**
    *
    Moera:
    youshould’v
    efoughthardtostayali
    ve
    forme.
    ..
    ..
    iknowIwasahandf ultodealwit
    hbut
    Iknewyoulovedme...
    .imadebaddecisi
    ons
    andnowIdon’tknowwhatt odo
    *
    ***
    shecr
    ied*
    **
    Moera:ImissyouAlex.
    ..
    .imi
    ssyouso
    much..
    ..
    whydi dyoul
    eaveme...
    .y
    oubr
    other
    i
    s..
    ..
    he.
    ...It
    rust
    edhim andhe.
    ..
    ..
    *
    **shecont
    inuedt
    ocr
    ypai
    nful
    l
    y**
    *
    Moera:pleasehelpmeoutoft
    his
    pr
    edicament .
    ..
    .ipr
    omi
    seIwil
    lbeagood
    gi
    rl
    ..
    ..
    pleasehelpme
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER34
    .
    .
    .

    ***Mpandewalkedi
    nsi
    det
    hebouti
    quewith
    takeaways.
    ..
    oneoft
    heemploy
    eeswalkedt
    o
    him***
    Lady
    :hel
    l
    osi
    r
    Mpande:
    ntokazi
    ..
    ..
    unj
    ani
    Lady
    :im goodandy
    our
    sel
    f
    Mpande:haingi
    yaphi
    la.
    ..
    .uphi
    ubasswakho(i
    m
    good.
    ..
    whereisyourboss)
    Lady
    :awhat
    Mpande:
    theowneroft
    hisshop
    Lady
    :oohummm doy
    ouhav
    eanappoi
    ntment
    Mpande:
    woz
    ala(comeher
    e)
    Lady
    :huh
    Mpande:
    comeduze(comecl
    oser
    )
    *
    **shet
    ookast
    epcl
    oser
    ***
    Mpande:bi
    zaubasswakho(call
    yourboss)or
    youwantmetocallhermy
    self
    Lady:
    sirt
    hisi
    sareputabl
    ebout
    iqueandwe
    maint
    ainourst
    andar
    d,youcan’
    tcomehereand
    demand..
    ..
    Mpande:
    ubasswakhont
    ombi
    (yourbossl
    ady
    )
    **
    *shet
    ookadeepbr
    eathandMpandet
    ookout
    hi
    sphoneandmadeacall
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpande
    Mpande:
    Iseey
    ousav
    edmynumber
    s
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whatdoy
    ouwantnow
    Mpande:t
    here’
    sthi
    sladyher
    ewithbi
    gey
    esle
    nkoyasphar
    ela(wit
    habignose)andar
    ed
    l
    i
    pst
    icksher
    efusest
    ocal
    lyou
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    aski
    es
    Mpande: ungi
    tshelangabor eputablebusiness
    namast andardsakhona...
    angazi kuthiat
    hi
    ayenzaniamast andardsnamabusi nessakhona
    (she’stel
    li
    ngmeaboutar eputablebusiness
    anditsstandards..
    ..
    idon’
    tknowwhatt heydo
    thosestandardandi t
    sbusi ness)
    *
    **t
    hel
    adychuckl
    edpi
    ssedof
    fbynow*
    **
    Mpande: comeoutbef
    oreshelosesher
    cool.
    ..
    ..
    shelooksl
    i
    kethoserat
    chetonesfr
    om
    ekasi
    **
    * hethendr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landr
    aisedan
    eyebrowather*
    **
    Mpande:
    what
    Lady
    :di
    dyouj
    usti
    nsul
    tme
    Mpande:onal
    enkoy
    asphar
    ela(doy
    ouhav
    e
    abi
    gnose)
    *
    **bef
    oreshecoul
    dsayany
    thi
    nghespoke*
    **
    Mpande:hol
    dyourpi
    ecei
    mi nnomoodt oinsul
    t
    alady
    ..
    .mypast
    orsai
    dtodayisgonnabea
    gooddayformesoassombli
    efdon’tr
    uini
    tfor
    me
    ***
    Hil
    lscameoutandshefrownedl
    ooki
    ngat
    Mpande..
    .shewalkedt
    ohi
    mt hensmi
    ledbr
    ief
    ly
    atheremployee*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    I’
    ll
    takei
    tfr
    om her
    ethanky
    ouMal
    ebo
    **
    *MalebogaveMpandeanastyl
    ookandshe
    walkedawaynotl
    ooki
    nghappyatal
    l
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    howt
    hehel
    ldi
    dyouf
    indme
    Mpande:
    arey
    ougonnaaskmet
    hatal
    lthet
    ime
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    let
    sgoandeat
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpande.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesai
    ddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:
    yesmamas
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yhoModi
    mo
    *
    **shewal
    kedawayandhef
    oll
    owedher
    ***

    I
    NSI
    DEHEROFFI
    CE

    Mpande:
    nothisissmal
    l
    ...
    .howarewegonna
    enj
    oymdavasointhi
    ssmallspace
    *
    **shet
    urnedandl
    ookedathi
    m shocked*
    **
    Mpande:
    not
    hisof
    fi
    cewon’
    twor
    k
    Hil
    l
    s:Mpandewhat
    ’swrongwi
    thy
    ou.
    ..
    doy
    ou
    somet
    imeshearwhaty
    ousaytome
    Mpande:
    you’
    ret
    heonei
    gnor
    ingt
    heobv
    ious
    Hi
    ll
    s:obv
    iousy
    aeng.
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    ret
    heoner
    efusi
    ng
    t
    oletmepayyou
    Mpande:
    maybeIdon’
    twantyoutopay
    me.
    ..
    maybeIwantsomet
    hingel
    se
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngather
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    aski
    es
    ***
    theylookedateachotherf
    orsomet
    ime
    wit
    houtsay i
    ngany t
    hingt
    henHil
    l
    sswal
    lowed
    hardandshel ookedawayandmovedt
    oher
    chair
    ***
    Mpande:
    itsnowcl
    i
    cki
    ngi
    nthatst
    ubbor
    nhead
    ofy
    oursneh
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youshoul
    dleav
    e
    Mpande:
    uyangi
    khi
    phamanj
    e(y
    ou’
    reki
    cki
    ng
    meoutnow)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im busyMpande
    Mpande:i
    m alsoabusymanbutImakesur
    eI
    maketi
    mef oryou
    Hi
    ll
    s:entl
    ekompatl
    ang(whatdoyouwantf
    rom
    me).
    ..
    .whati
    sitt
    hatyouwantf
    rom meheh
    Mpande:
    Iwanty
    ou
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thoutev
    ent
    hinki
    ngt
    wice*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    huh
    *
    **shesaidshockedandheswallowedhar
    das
    i
    tcl
    ickedt
    ohim whathejustsai
    d***
    Mpande:
    Idon’
    tknowwhaty
    oudi
    dtome
    but
    ..
    .y
    ouarewhatIneed
    *
    **shej
    ustl
    ookedathi
    m shocked*
    **
    Mpande:
    Imeany ou’r
    enotev
    enmyt
    ypebut
    youar
    eallIt
    hinkabout
    *
    **shef
    rownedt
    henshel
    ookeddown*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youshoul
    dleav
    eMpande
    ***
    hesi
    ghedrubbi
    nghi
    sbear
    dandhekept
    qui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Mpande:
    eish.
    ..
    .y
    ahIshould.
    ..befor
    e
    ngi
    yi
    moshakakhulu(Ir
    uinthingsfurt
    her
    )
    *
    **het
    urnedandwal
    kedt
    othedoorandhe
    st
    opped*
    **
    Mpande:Fr
    idayIwouldli
    key out
    obemy
    par
    tneratmybrother
    ’swelcomehomepar
    ty
    **
    *shefr
    ownedl
    ooki
    ngathi
    mthenshe
    si
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    m sorr
    yIcantmakei
    t.
    ..
    .idon’
    tev
    enknow
    whyyouaskedmet hat
    Mpande:
    I’
    ll
    picky
    ouupar
    oundbomaaf
    ter12
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ijustsai
    dnomot
    ho.
    ..
    arey
    oudeaf
    Mpande:
    yeahi
    m deafsoFr
    idayi
    tis
    *
    **heopenedt
    hedoor
    ***
    Mpande:andifIf
    indyounotr
    eadyj
    ustknow
    you’
    l
    ljustasy
    ouar e
    ***
    thenhewalkedoutandcl
    osedt
    hedoor
    behindhi
    m**
    *
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    m surekal
    iki
    wamo..
    ..
    ookemoleko
    st
    rai
    ght
    ..
    ..
    satanwanl
    ekamxmuist
    ruu
    OUTSI
    DE

    Mpande:
    damni
    t.
    ..
    ..
    ms*
    nuwakhoMpande
    man!
    !!
    **
    *hi
    sphonerangandi
    twashi
    smot
    her
    ..
    .he
    si
    ghedandanswer
    ed**
    *
    Mpande:
    maOl
    ady
    Mother
    :Mpande.
    ..
    .iwai
    tedandwai
    tedkhant
    i
    ukuphi
    (wherear
    ey ou)
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:nev
    ermindaboutt
    hatIf
    oundastr
    ong
    sangomathi
    ssi
    deandhegav emeumuthi
    to
    use
    Mother
    :maraMpandewat
    hul
    anj
    e(y
    oudi
    dn’
    t
    sayany
    thi
    ng)
    Mpande:
    eishaski
    esmaOl
    adyIf
    orgot
    Mot
    her
    :whatdi
    dthesangomasay
    Mpande: hai
    akuy onaleyantokaziendala(it
    s
    notthatoldwoman) .
    ..
    .i
    tsoneofthetaxiowners
    Ihavebeefwith..
    ..
    uy at
    hakathaandhe’ sjust
    tr
    yingtomessupmyl if
    eandstrikewheni m
    weakenedbyt hattikol
    oshe.
    Mother
    :yhoNkosiy
    am..
    ..
    nasomat
    eki
    si
    bat
    humelaot
    ikol
    oshe
    Mpande:ziy
    abuy al
    amaOladybutdon’
    tworry
    ngi
    ri
    ghtmanje(t hi
    ngsar
    ehecti
    cthi
    sside.
    ..
    but
    don’
    tworryim goodnow)
    Mother
    :haoNkosi
    yami.
    ..
    uberi
    ghtmfanawam
    yezwa(oohmyGod..
    .bealr
    ightmyboyok)
    Mpande:
    ngi
    yezwama
    Mother
    :oksi
    zobuy
    asi
    khul
    umef
    uthi
    (wewi
    l
    l
    t
    alkagai
    n)
    Mpande:
    oli
    ghtma(al
    ri
    ghtma)
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    landhesi
    ghedt
    henhe
    t
    ypedamessagef
    orHi
    l
    ls*
    **
    Mpande:“i
    m deadserious.
    ..
    ibet
    terfindyou
    r
    eadyNtabeniory
    ou’ll
    wearwhat everI’
    ll
    find
    youweari
    ngonFridaytothepart
    y ”
    **
    *hesenditandputhi
    sphoneawayandhe
    walkedt
    otheparki
    nglot
    ***

    _
    ___

    THURSDAYTHEDAYOFTHEFUNERAL

    ***Jabul
    ookedoveratLorr
    ainef
    ixi
    ngSbu’
    s
    shir
    tandhesmil
    edal i
    tt
    le*
    **
    Ruu:
    it’
    saper
    fectpi
    ctur
    eisn’
    tit
    Jabu:
    Ruu
    Ruu:
    keephercl
    ose.
    ..
    .t
    hatf
    ool
    wil
    lbet
    her
    eat
    thefuner
    al.
    ..
    .dontf
    ighthi
    m...
    .bri
    nghim down
    tohiskneesbyhim watchi
    ngy oubei
    ngcloseto
    Lorrai
    ne.
    ..
    ..
    that’
    showy oudealwit
    hfool
    sl i
    ke
    him
    Jabu:
    Iwannaknockhi
    steet
    houtnxa
    Ruu:helovesher
    ..
    ..
    he’
    sbeeninlovewithher
    evenwhenshewasj usthi
    slat
    ebrother’
    s
    gi
    rlf
    ri
    end..
    ..
    .t
    hisi
    sgonnaknockhim offbal
    ance
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    Idon’twantdramaRuu..
    ..
    kenyako
    hemanyana..
    ..
    ij
    ustwannabreat
    hejustabi
    t
    Ruu:ther
    e’snopeacei
    nthi
    sworl
    dman..
    ..
    the
    sooneryoumakepeacewit
    hthatt
    hebet
    ter
    *
    **Jabuchuckl
    ed*
    **
    Jabu:
    mxm
    *
    **Heat
    h’scal
    lcamet
    hrough*
    **
    Jabu:
    Mshi
    kar
    o
    Heat
    h:wear
    eleav
    ingt
    hef
    uner
    alpar
    lour
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    okwewi
    l
    lmeetatherhome
    Heat
    h:sho
    *
    **t
    heyendedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Jabu:
    itst
    ime
    Ruu:
    I’
    ll
    letev
    ery
    oneknow
    *
    **hewal
    kedaway*
    **
    Jabu:
    almostt
    her
    eJav
    as
    *
    **Lor
    rai
    newal
    kedt
    ohi
    m**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:oshap
    Jabu:
    ket
    labashap(I
    ’
    llbef
    ine)
    Lol
    l
    y:ok
    Jabu:
    Iwanty
    oucl
    oser
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    sthatwi
    se
    Jabu:
    yeah
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    Jabu:
    Iwanty
    oucl
    oseLor
    rai
    ne.
    ..
    .t
    hewhol
    e
    ti
    me
    **
    *hesai
    dwi
    thaser
    ioust
    oneandshe
    si
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:ok
    Jabu:
    itst
    imear
    evai
    ye(l
    etsgo)
    *
    **shef
    oll
    owedhi
    m**
    *
    Rea:babaj
    olai
    mt el
    l
    ingy
    ou(
    theset
    woar
    e
    dati
    ngimtel
    li
    ngyou)
    *
    **oneofJabu’
    scousi
    nssai
    dtoanot
    herone*
    **
    Refi
    lwe:salebajolawayback(theydat
    edway
    back).
    ..
    .i
    m sur
    et hat
    ’swhyhi
    smar ri
    agewas
    abouttoend..
    ..
    kesfebese(it
    sthiswh*r
    e)
    Rea:naganaot l
    hat
    sematlhat
    saoaj e
    gape.
    ...
    .aai
    Jabuleyena(i
    magi nev omit
    ing
    thenyoudecidetoeatt
    hatvomi tagai
    n)
    Refi
    lwe:Amoomot l
    ogetseshem nnanoko
    moy el
    aspecialkoMaweezyanny e(Amowas
    l
    enienttohershame..
    ..
    .iwoul
    d’v
    econsult
    ed
    wit
    hMaweezyj ustforher)
    Rea:
    butIhear
    dAmocheat
    edmos
    Refil
    we:i
    m sureshecheatedcausehewas
    cheati
    ngtoo..
    ..
    somet
    imesot shwanetsego
    beyabozalwanekwaaobont shepoogore
    l
    wenawakgona(somet imesoneshouldput
    thei
    rChri
    sti
    anit
    yawayforabi tandshowabul
    l
    thatyoual
    socandoi t
    )
    Rea:Idon’tl
    iket
    hischi
    ck.
    ..
    .onaganagoreo
    (shethinksshe’
    s)bett
    ert
    hanany oneandshe
    for
    gotgor eweknowhershem...
    .weknow
    whereshecomesf rom
    Ref
    il
    we:hermat
    esbanalebanayenabagaewa
    baj
    anxa(hermateshav
    ekidsandsheeat
    s
    her
    snxa)
    Rea:
    obusyongapar
    etseJabubonaf
    ela(l
    ook
    athercl
    i
    ngi
    ngt
    oJabu)
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thadi
    sgust
    ingl
    ookonher
    f
    ace***
    Ref
    il
    we:
    moswagadi
    (awi
    dower
    )imagi
    ne
    Rea:haibathogabatshabemakgomeshem
    (peoplearenotscar
    edofbadluck)
    Refi
    l
    we:ekar
    eJabuakamojaakukumuga
    malaaswa(Iwi
    shJabucanf*
    ckherandshe
    endsupwi
    thaswoll
    ent
    ummyandshedies)
    Rea:
    mmmmhabol
    ayekebof
    ebenxa
    (mmmmhbei
    ngawhor
    eendsupski
    ll
    i
    ngher
    )
    *
    **t
    heygi
    ggl
    ed*
    **
    Gogo:
    yekani
    ukuhl
    eba(st
    opgossi
    ping)and
    l
    etsgo
    Ref
    il
    we:
    hawgogo
    Gogo:hawgogoy
    ani
    ..
    ..
    that
    ’swhaty
    ou’
    regood
    atangi
    thi
    Rea:
    wenagogoy
    oul
    i
    kepi
    cki
    ngonus
    Gogo:thul
    a(keepquiet
    )andtakemybagt
    othe
    carIneedtousethebat
    hroom
    **
    *Reatookherhandbagandtheywal
    kedout
    whil
    egogowenttotherest
    room***
    .
    .
    .

    ATAMO’
    SHOME

    ***Thehear
    sereversedtowardstheopened
    gateandrev
    ersedinthenitparked
    ther
    e..
    .Amo’
    sbrotherwalkedtohisuncl
    ewho
    l
    ookeddispl
    eased***
    A.
    Brot
    her
    :isev
    ery
    oner
    eady
    Uncl
    e:kor
    eyoudon’
    tev
    encar
    egor
    ethese
    peopl
    eki
    l
    ledy
    oursi
    ster
    A.
    Brot
    her
    :notnowmal
    omepl
    easenotnow
    Uncl
    e:i
    fnotnowt
    henwhen
    A.Br
    other
    :youknowwhat
    ..
    .idon’
    thav
    eti
    mef
    or
    thi
    s
    **
    * hewalkedinsi
    dethehouseandtheuncle
    cl
    ickedhistongue..
    ..
    .Gogo,
    Mkhulu,
    Jabu’s
    mot her
    ,Heath,RayandJabuaretheonl
    yones
    whocamet herestwenttothev
    enue***
    Heat
    h: myl
    oveshoul
    dIfindyouachai
    rcauseI
    don’
    tthi
    nkt
    hesepeoplearer
    eadytocomeout
    *
    **heaskedhi
    sgr
    andmot
    her
    ***
    Mkhul
    u:whataboutme
    Heath:
    hawKhulusyou’
    reaman.
    ..
    .menst
    and
    whil
    ewomensitdown
    Mkhul
    u:uy
    ahl
    any
    a..
    .ihav
    ebadkneesnekhanda
    el
    i
    khul
    u
    *
    **Heat
    hchuckl
    ed*
    **
    J.
    Mot
    her
    :or
    ightpapa
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    Lol
    l
    yshoul
    d’
    vecomewi
    thus
    *
    **Jabu’
    smot
    herf
    rowned*
    **
    J.
    Mot
    her
    :huh
    Jabu:
    nev
    ermi
    nd
    *
    **het
    ookouthisphoneandmov
    edawayt
    o
    makeaphonecall
    ***
    Lol
    l
    y:hey
    Jabu:
    ori
    ght
    Loll
    y:ummm y
    eahbutIshoul
    dbeaski
    ngy
    ou
    that
    Jabu:
    keshapi
    mjustwor
    ri
    edabouty
    ou
    *
    **shekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Lol
    l
    y:ummm why
    Jabu:
    nje
    Lol
    l
    y:ok
    Jabu:
    yeahI
    ’
    llseey
    ouj
    ustnow
    Lol
    l
    y:okshap
    *
    **t
    heyendedthecallandthat
    ’swhenAmo’
    s
    f
    amil
    ycameoutoft hehouseonebyoneand
    t
    hechur
    chpeopleandsomecommuni t
    y
    membersmovedcloser**
    *
    Heat
    h:f
    inal
    l
    yim sur
    ethebodyhasal
    ready
    st
    art
    edmelti
    ng
    Gogo:
    hai
    manShaka
    ***hejustshruggedandGogost art
    edachur ch
    songandherdaught er(Jabu’ smother
    )joi
    ned
    herandt henAmo’ sfamilyjoinedi
    nandt herest
    didtoo..
    ..
    .thefuneralpar
    lourpeopleopenedt he
    backoft heluxuri
    oushear seandAmo’ smother
    start
    edcr yi
    ngoutloudandt heyhel
    dherast hey
    tookoutt hecasket***
    .
    .
    .

    ***Every
    onei sdri
    vingtothev enue...
    .t
    heyar e
    doneatAmo’ shomeandabuswashi r
    edf or
    otherfamilymember sandneighbour sandt he
    churchcongr egat
    ionwhocoul dmakei tfrom
    Amo’ smot her’
    schurchwhi l
    eAmo’ smot her,
    brother,
    unclesandAunt sarer idi
    nginsidet he
    familycars.TheVilakazi
    ’saredr i
    vi
    ngt heirown
    cars***
    .
    .
    .
    ATTHECEMETERY
    ***Achurchsongi sbeingsangast hecasketis
    l
    ower eddowni nsi
    det hegrave.
    ..
    ..
    Ruslanis
    standingnexttoHeat hwhil
    eJabu, Rayandt he
    restofthefamilyalongwit
    hAmo’ sf amil
    yare
    sit
    ti
    ngundert hestretcht
    ent.
    ...
    Castiel
    ,Thandi
    andLor r
    aineremainedbehindatthev enue***
    Ruu:doyouseethatmanweari
    ngsunglasses
    standi
    ngundert
    hattr
    eeonyourri
    ght.
    ..
    .he’
    s
    standi
    ngwitht
    hatshor
    tguywholookslikea
    thokhol
    osi
    Heat
    h:wher
    e
    Ruu:he’
    sweari
    ngsangomabeadsonhi
    swr
    ist
    s
    andgoldri
    ngsonhi
    sfinger
    s
    ***
    Heathspot
    tedhi
    m st
    andi
    ngwi
    thanot
    her
    guy**
    *
    Heat
    h:oohy eahIseehi
    m..
    ..
    what
    ’swi
    tht
    he
    ot
    herguy.
    ..
    .helookswei
    rd
    Ruu:
    theyar
    enother
    eforj
    ustt
    hef
    uner
    al
    Heat
    h:whatdoy
    oumean
    Ruu:
    Amowentt
    ohi
    mtobewi
    tchJabu
    *
    **Heat
    hcl
    enchedhi
    sjaws*
    **
    Ruu:
    he’
    sher
    eforhersoul
    andguesswhat
    Heat
    h:what
    Ruu:
    he’
    snotgonnageti
    t
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    rki
    ngandHeat
    hlookedathi
    m**
    *
    Ruu:goandtel
    lJabu,Ray
    ,thewi
    vesandthe
    boysthatt
    heyshoul
    dnotbealar
    medit’
    sme
    Heat
    h:whatar
    eyougonnado
    Ruu:
    justgomanandwat
    ch
    ***Heathwentt
    ot hem andhewhisper
    edto
    them andRayimmediatelygotupandwalked
    upt owhereRuuisasthepr i
    esti
    sbusy**
    *
    Ray
    :what
    ’sup
    *
    **Ruut
    oldhi
    m**
    *
    Ray:howthefuckdi
    dheknowaboutt
    hef
    uner
    al
    ar
    rangements
    Ruu:
    beatsmebutim gonnaf
    indout
    ..
    ..
    .Amo
    wastakenbysomeoneshetr
    ustst
    ogoseethat
    manimt el
    l
    ingyou
    *
    **Raykeptqui
    etashel
    ookedov
    eratt
    he
    t
    ent*
    **
    Ruu:
    whatar
    eyout
    hinki
    ng
    Ray
    :theaunt
    ***
    Ruulookedoverandt
    heycaughtherl
    ooking
    overatt
    hesangomamant henshewouldlook
    downatherhands***
    Ray
    :fuckenbi
    tch!
    !!
    ***Rusl
    an’
    sey eschangedcol
    ourashestood
    therest
    il
    l.
    ..
    .lucki
    lyhe’
    sweari
    ngsungl
    assesso
    noonecanseet hem***
    Ray
    :don’
    tdest
    royt
    het
    entman
    *
    **Raysai
    dashesawt
    hathechangedhi
    s
    postur
    eandhi
    shandsshooki
    nsi
    dehi
    s
    pocket
    s**
    *
    Ruu:
    “pul
    vi
    ssi
    t.
    ..
    .pul
    vi
    ssi
    t”
    **
    *hesai
    dthatoverandov
    erandsuddenl
    ywi
    nd
    st
    art
    edbuil
    dingup**
    *
    Ray
    :shi
    t!
    !
    *
    **hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    f**
    *
    Peopl
    e:hebanphef
    oeetl
    hagakae(wher
    eis
    thi
    swindcomingfr
    om)
    ***
    womenst ar
    tedhol
    dingthei
    rdressesand
    ski
    rtsdownasthewindpickedupsome
    more***
    Peopl
    e:metl
    hol
    o..
    ..
    Amowet
    sangmar
    a!!
    !(Amo
    whatarey
    oudoing)
    Woman:
    may
    beherki
    l
    leri
    sher
    e
    Ruu:
    “pul
    vi
    ssi
    t!
    !”
    *
    **t
    hewi
    ndpi
    ckedupsomemor
    eandpeopl
    e
    startedscr eami ngasdustsuddenl yf ormed
    ri
    ghtbyt hegr aveandasandt ornadost arted
    formi ngmaki ngpeopl etorunf r
    om t hegr aveso
    didt hefuner alparlourpeopl eandt he
    Priest..
    ..
    Amo’ sfami l
    ymember sgotupf rom
    theirchairsandt heyranawayt oowhi l
    esome
    oft heVilakazi familymember sranawayt oo
    i
    ncl udingSbuandMJev enthoughHeat ht ol
    d
    them t orelax...
    .NalediandMbal i satt here
    holdingeachot her’shandsl ookingscar edwhi l
    e
    gogoandMkhul uhel dhandsl ookingatt he
    scene* **
    Ray
    :he’
    smov
    ing
    Ruu:
    “int
    rainmentem meam etv
    idecl
    aram
    i
    maginem etdest
    ruam”
    ***t
    hesandtornadofoll
    owedthetwomenand
    thepeopl
    ewhower er unni
    ngtowardshi
    s
    dir
    ecti
    onassoonast heysawt het
    ornadothey
    screamedrunningf
    astwi t
    hsomechanging
    dir
    ecti
    on.
    ..
    somegott ri
    ppedbysomegr aves
    andfel
    lwhilesomejustranfort
    heirl
    i
    v es
    scr
    eami ngastheTornadoisbusymaki ngwei
    rd
    andcreepydemonicsoundsasi tmoved***
    Man:
    whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon.
    ..
    whati
    sthi
    s!!
    !
    ***
    hesai
    dasherant
    owardshiscar
    ..
    ..
    theshor
    t
    guyhecamewi
    thqui
    ckl
    yunlockedt
    heircar
    ***
    Guy
    :runbaba.
    ..
    run!
    !!
    ***Thet ornadoqui cklyr eachedt hem andal l
    theycoul dheari sglasswi ndowsoft heircar
    shuttering..
    ..
    theybot hduckedgoi ngdownas
    thetor nadof l
    ippedt heircarov erandt het wo
    menf ellt
    ot hegr oundl ookingscar ed..
    ..t
    he
    shortguyqui ckl
    ypul ledhi smast erfrom the
    sceneast het ornadoci rcledthecar .
    ...
    Some
    peoplescr eamedwhi lesomest oodf arfrom
    thescenet akingv i
    deosascl oudscov eredthe
    sky..
    ..
    .Thenoutoft hebl uel i
    ghtninghi tcl
    oseto
    wher et hesangomaandt heguywer e,maki nga
    l
    oudsoundt hatsendchi l
    l
    sdownaspi ne
    l
    eav
    ingadar
    kpat
    chont
    hegr
    ound*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    hersoul
    ismi
    nenoty
    our
    s!!
    !
    *
    **ascar
    yvoi
    ceoutofnowher
    esai
    dtot
    het
    wo
    men**
    *
    Voi
    ce:i
    m comi
    ngf
    ory
    ou.
    ..
    wat
    chy
    ourback
    wit
    ch!
    !!
    ***
    thenthetornadodi
    sappearedsodidthe
    cl
    oudsandi tbecamequietasifnot
    hing
    happened**
    *
    **
    *Ruuthenbr
    eat
    hedoutandhet
    ookof
    fhi
    s
    gl
    asses***
    Ray
    :showof
    f
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Ruu:im st
    il
    lconf
    usedast
    owhyhe’
    sdoi
    ngal
    l
    these
    Ray
    :causeAmowant
    edhi
    mtodot
    hatt
    oJabu
    *
    **Ruushookhi
    shead*
    **
    Ruu:
    imt
    ell
    i
    ngy
    out
    hisi
    sdeeper
    ***Raydidn’
    tsayanyt
    hing.
    ..
    .somepeopl
    e
    startedcomingbackwhil
    esomejustwentt
    o
    theircar
    sandsomewentt othebus,t
    heywere
    scaredtocomeback* *
    *
    Gogo:
    itwast
    hatboyRusl
    an
    *
    **shesai
    dtoherhusbandshaki
    ngherhead*
    **
    Mkhul
    u:whati
    she
    **
    *gogodi
    dn’
    tsayanyt
    hingshej
    ustl
    ookedat
    Rusl
    anandRaytal
    ki
    ng***
    .
    .
    .

    ATTHEVENUE

    Cass:
    MrKennymakhenzo.
    ..
    ..
    whatbr
    ingsy
    ou
    her
    e
    ***Lorrai
    neturnedandshesawt hatitwas
    Castielandshequickl
    ymov edbehindhim..
    .she
    wasscar edandshaking..
    ..
    shejustcameoutof
    thebat hr
    oom andtherestoodKennyandnot
    farfrom him wastwobigguyswhol ooksli
    ke
    body guards*
    **
    Cass:
    yougood
    *
    **shenoddedast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledherey
    es*
    **
    Cast
    iel
    :got
    oThandi
    I’
    ll
    handl
    ehi
    m
    **
    *shedi
    dn’
    twaitt
    obetoldt
    wicesher
    ushed
    awaywit
    hherhear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast*
    **
    Kenny
    :Lor
    rai
    ne.
    ..
    *
    **hecal
    l
    edaf
    terher
    ***
    Cast
    iel
    :you’
    remaki
    ngnoi
    sems*
    nu
    *
    **Kennyl
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Kenny
    :that
    ’smywomanandwhoar
    eyou
    cal
    l
    ingms*
    nu.
    ..
    wenams*
    nuwenj
    a
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    laughed*
    **
    Cass:
    ms*
    nuwenj
    a..
    ..
    .t
    hat
    ’sagoodone
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    olaugh*
    **
    Cass:at
    hims*nuwenj
    a..
    .y
    ahneh.
    ..
    .Zul
    upeopl
    e
    andthei
    rinsul
    ts
    Kenny:
    lookim nother
    eforf
    ight
    sandi
    nsul
    tsi
    m
    j
    usthereformywoman
    Cass:Icancal
    lhernowt
    obr
    eakupwi
    thy
    ou
    of
    fici
    all
    yify
    ouwant
    *
    **Kennyf
    rowned*
    **
    Kenny
    :Idon’
    tknowwhot hef
    ucky
    ouar
    eso
    st
    ayoutofourbusi
    ness
    *
    **Cast
    iel
    chuckl
    ed*
    **
    Cass:
    she’
    smybusi
    nessandsheknowst
    hat
    **
    *Kennet
    hclenchedhi
    sjawsthentheKhumal
    o
    br
    other
    swalkedtowheretheyare
    standing.
    ..
    .t
    heydidn’tgot otheCemetery,t
    hey
    decidedtocomest raighttothevenuesince
    theywer el
    ateandthel atenessisbecauseof
    Snakesandhi s“gout”whi chiswhatheblamed
    forwakinguplate***
    Cast
    iel
    :aaht
    heKhumal
    obeast
    sint
    hef
    lesh
    *
    **Snakesl
    aughed*
    **
    Snakes:
    lookwho’
    scal
    li
    ngusbeast
    s..
    ..
    afossi
    l
    ..
    .t
    hemummyhi mself
    *
    **l
    aught
    er*
    **
    Cass:
    fosek
    *
    **mor
    elaught
    er*
    **
    Jay:
    yourbeaut
    if
    ulbr
    other
    ’swi
    fesai
    dwe’
    l
    lfi
    nd
    youher
    e
    Cass:t
    akethatbeaut
    if
    ul partoutwheny
    ou’
    re
    tal
    ki
    ngaboutThandi.
    ..
    .she’soffl
    imit
    s
    Jay
    :im happi
    l
    ymar
    ri
    edt
    hanky
    ouv
    erymuch
    Cass:
    buty
    oucancal
    lanot
    herwomanbeaut
    if
    ul
    Jay
    :fi
    neshe’
    sugl
    y
    Cass:
    uyany
    a..
    .Thandi
    ugl
    y.
    ..
    .ungaj
    abul
    ashem
    *
    **l
    aught
    er*
    **
    Jase:
    andgi
    ft
    ed
    Cass:
    tsek
    *
    **l
    aught
    er.
    ..
    Kennycl
    ear
    edhi
    sthr
    oat
    ***
    Snakes:
    what.
    ..
    .y
    ouhaveasoret
    hroat
    ..
    .f
    ozas
    don’
    tyouhav
    est r
    epsi
    l
    slapho
    *
    **Thebrot
    her
    slaughedoutloudandKenny
    l
    ookedathi
    stwobody guar
    ds***
    Kenny
    :goi
    nther
    eandbr
    ingmemywoman
    Cass:onemoveandwatchyourinsi
    desscatt
    er
    al
    loverthegr
    oundasyoutakeyourlastbr
    eat
    h
    ***
    hesaidwithabonechi
    ll
    ingtoneandhisey
    es
    changedcol
    ourandthebodyguardsmoved
    backslowl
    yreachi
    ngfort
    heirguns**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER35
    .
    .
    .

    Snakes:
    ifIwer
    eyout
    hreeIwoul
    dleav
    e
    Kenny
    :youdon’
    tscar
    eme.
    ..
    it
    scl
    eary
    oudon’
    t
    knowwhoIr
    eal
    l
    yam
    Snakes:ahumant r
    aff
    ickerthatwor
    kswi t
    h
    thosestupidfor
    eigner
    s...
    youthinkj
    ustbecause
    youpayt hepoli
    cetowor kforyouyou’r
    e
    untouchable
    *
    **Kennylookedathi
    m..
    .i
    twascleart
    ohi
    mthat
    t
    heydidtheirr
    esear
    chabouthi
    m* *
    *
    Snakes:wedon’tf
    uckwit
    hthestupid
    popos..
    .wefuckwit
    hthemil
    it
    aryfoolsonow
    wit
    hthel i
    tt
    ledi
    gni
    tyyouhav
    eleft
    ...
    fusek!
    !!
    Kenny:thisisnotov er.
    ..
    .Lor
    rainei
    smi ne.
    ..
    tel
    l
    thatf
    ool youcallabr ot
    herthatLorr
    aineis
    mine..
    ..
    he’snotev enashamedof
    himself
    ...
    .f
    ighti
    ngf oranotherwomanwhi lehis
    wifei
    snotev enyetburied..
    .i
    magine
    Cass:
    leav
    eKennet
    h!!
    ***
    Kennylaughedt
    henhel
    ookedathi
    s
    bodyguar
    ds***
    Kenny
    :let
    sgo..
    ..
    iguessI’
    l
    lseehersomeot
    her
    daywhenall
    thesefool
    sarenotaround
    *
    **Snakesl
    ookedathi
    sbr
    other
    s**
    *
    Snakes:
    athi
    wear
    efool
    sfozas
    **
    *Kennethwalkedawaybutst
    oppedwhen
    Thandibl
    ockedhisway**
    *
    Thandi
    :soy
    ouar
    eKennet
    h
    Kennet
    h:y
    esandy
    ouar
    e
    *
    **Thandilookedathi
    m upanddownthenshe
    t
    ookast epclosert
    ohim..
    .wayt
    oocl
    ose***
    Cass:
    Thandi
    !
    !!
    ***
    sheputherhandonhi sshoul
    derand
    Kennethl
    ookedatitandwhenhewasaboutt o
    l
    ookatherfaceshekneedhi mri
    ghtonhisnut
    s
    hardandhescreamedthenshepushedhim
    downandhef el
    ltothegroundbefor
    ehis
    bodyguar
    dscouldreact
    ***
    Thandi
    :st
    ayawayf
    rom Lor
    rai
    ney
    ouusel
    ess
    shi
    t.
    ..
    .mgodoy
    iwenj
    a..
    ..
    yout
    oenai
    lofsat
    an!
    !!
    ***Oneoftheguar dshelpedKennethup..
    ..t
    he
    otheronewasaboutt ograbThandiwhenhi s
    arm madeacr ackingsoundandbr okeinto
    two..
    ..
    hescreamedl oudaspai
    nrushedt ohis
    heartandCastielstoodtherel
    ooki
    ngathi m
    withadeadlylookonhi sface*
    **
    Cass:
    YOUPI
    ECESOFSH*
    T..
    ..
    .LEAVE!
    !!
    ***hesai dwi
    thabonechi lli
    ngtonethat
    Kennet handhi sbodyguar dsshookwith
    fear.
    ..
    .thebody guar
    dbal ancedKennethand
    theywal kedawaywhi letheonewi ththebroken
    handf oll
    owedt hem holdinghisbrokenhand
    withtearsrunningdownhi scheeks..
    ..
    the
    cateri
    ngst af
    far eal
    lspookedbywhatj ust
    happenedandwonder i
    nghowCast i
    elgotto
    them causet heydidn’
    tseehi m mov e***
    Cass:
    nx
    *
    **Thandi
    wal
    kedawayandt
    heKhumal
    o’s
    wal
    kedt
    oCast
    iel
    ***
    Jay
    :she’
    ssav
    age
    Cass:
    Madoui
    sgonnabepi
    ssed
    ***
    hesaidfaci
    ngupthenhesighedandl
    ooked
    attheKhumalosf
    rowning*
    **
    Cass:
    whydi
    dn’
    tyougot
    othecemet
    ery
    Snakes:
    Idon’
    tdocemet
    eri
    esandpl
    usIhav
    e
    gout
    Cass:whatdoeshavi
    nggouthav
    etodowi
    th
    yougoingtothecemeter
    y
    Snakes:
    Idon’
    tknowbutIhav
    egout
    ***
    hesai dwal
    ki
    ngawayl
    eav
    ingCast
    iel
    confused**
    *
    Jase:
    leav
    eitory
    ou’
    l
    lbemor
    econf
    used
    *
    **Cast
    ielj
    ustshookhi
    sheadandt
    heywent
    i
    nsi
    de***
    Jay
    :youbr
    oket
    hatf
    ool
    sar
    mjustl
    i
    ket
    hat
    Cass:he’
    sluckyThandi
    wast
    her
    eorel
    seI
    would’
    vekil
    ledhi
    m nx
    .
    .
    .
    ATALPHALETTE’
    SHOUSE

    **
    *Al
    phaishol
    dingMasai
    inhi
    sar
    msast
    hey
    ar
    ely
    ingonhisbed*
    **
    Alpha:i
    tfeel
    sgoodt
    ohol
    dyoui
    nmyar
    ms
    again
    Masai
    :Imi
    ssedy
    ou
    *
    **heki
    ssedherf
    orehead*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Imi
    ssedy
    oumor
    e
    Masai
    :youshoul
    d’
    vewentt
    othef
    uner
    al
    Alpha:
    Jabuunder
    standst
    haty
    oujustgotout
    ofthehospi
    tal
    soIcantmakei
    ttothefuner
    al
    Masai
    :ok.
    ..
    *
    ***
    sil
    ence*
    **
    Masai
    :ar
    eyouok.
    ..
    .y
    ouseem abi
    tof
    f
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandhel
    dhert
    ight
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    Ilov
    eyou
    *
    **heki
    ssedherf
    oreheadagai
    n**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Gaza.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Alpha:
    hewentthroughalotandletsjustsayhe
    openedupaboutwhathewentt hroughand
    whathe’sgoi
    ngthrough
    Masai
    :at
    leasty
    ouguy
    stal
    ked
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    didAJgi
    vey
    ouanyt
    roubl
    e
    Masai
    :nopehe’
    sjustbei
    nghi
    swei
    rdsel
    f
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ithi
    nkhehasagi
    ft
    *
    **shekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Al
    pha:don’
    tworr
    yim her
    etoguidehi
    m andI
    ’
    ll
    makesurehehasanormalchi
    ldhood
    Masai
    :he’
    sst
    il
    lyoungPhal
    ett
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dtr
    yingt
    ogetoutofhi
    shol
    d**
    *
    Alpha:Iknowr andzoramina..
    .iknowbutlikeI
    saidim hereandim notgoingany wher
    e..
    ..
    i’
    ll
    guidehim don’
    twor r
    y
    ***
    shenoddedthenshesighedandr el
    axedin
    hi
    sarms..
    ..
    shefel
    tsafeandloved.
    ..
    .she’s
    hopel
    essl
    yinl
    ovewithhim andshe’
    sj ustgonna
    tr
    ustt
    hathewonthurtherli
    keother
    sdi d***
    .
    .
    .

    ATTHEVENUE
    ***carsdroveinandpeoplegotoutandthey
    wer edir
    ectedtowheretheywill
    getfoodbut
    theyaredisappoint
    edtofindsandwichesand
    notcookedf ood***
    Uncle:
    kemet
    lhol
    oyaengee(whatt
    hehel
    li
    s
    thi
    s)
    Aunt
    :yhohai
    Icantbel
    i
    evet
    his
    Uncl
    e:bor
    othomol
    esong(br
    eadataf
    uner
    al)
    Aunt
    :imagi
    ne
    Another.
    aunt:gaperenarenwadipi
    l
    isit
    sahi
    gh
    bl
    oodandbakget hagoref
    aborot
    ho(wedr i
    nk
    pi
    ll
    sf orhighbl
    oodpressur
    eandtheychoset
    o
    gi
    veisbr ead)
    Uncl
    e:thesepeoplebatshegi
    sakasetl
    ogol
    osa
    kastr
    uu(t hesepeopl
    earemakingfunofmy
    ni
    ece)
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :ej
    angr
    ekgonegot
    samay
    a(eat
    sowecanl
    eav
    e)
    Uncl
    e:roj
    angmoo...
    .okaj
    aborothowanwabi ri
    geofet
    sa..
    ..
    gobat
    legabogobeesengmasepa
    a(whatarewegoingt oeat
    ..
    .canyoueatbread
    anddri
    nkabeer.
    ..
    papi swhatisneedednotthi
    s
    sh*t
    )
    Anot
    her
    .aunt
    :let
    sjustl
    eav
    ewewi
    l
    lcookat
    home
    Uncl
    e:eywai
    ter
    ***
    hecal
    ledoneoft
    hel adi
    esfrom t
    hecat
    eri
    ng
    companyandshewalkedtothem***
    Lady
    :dumel
    angbagol
    o(gr
    eet
    ingsel
    der
    s)
    Uncle:
    eehdumel
    alewena.
    ..
    .bogobebokae
    (greet
    ingt
    oyout
    oo..
    ..
    wher
    ei sthepap)
    Lady
    :huh
    Uncl
    e:orehuh..
    ..
    ker
    ebogobelenamadikae
    (youar
    esayinghuh.
    ..
    .isai
    dwher
    eist
    hepap)
    Lady
    :ummm t
    hisi
    swhati
    sbei
    ngser
    ved
    bagol
    o
    Amo’
    smot
    her
    :Tshepol
    eti
    tgo
    Uncle:
    letwhatgo..
    .t
    hisi
    smyniece’sfuner
    al
    andbar ef
    aborotho.
    ..
    kemasepafelanthwe
    (andtheyaregiv
    ingusbread.
    ..
    thi
    sisjust
    bul
    lsh*t
    )
    **
    *Heathwal
    kedt
    othem ashehear
    dtheuncl
    e
    swear
    ing*
    **
    Heat
    h:y
    oucangosi
    s
    **
    *hesaidtot
    heladyandshequi
    cklywal
    ked
    awaythenhel
    ookedattheuncl
    e**
    *
    Heat
    h:i
    sther
    eapr
    obl
    em her
    e
    Uncl
    e:kar
    ebogobebokae(wher
    eist
    hepap)
    Heat
    h:di
    dyougi
    veusmoneyt
    obuymai
    ze
    meal
    ***
    theyallkeptqui
    etlooki
    ngathi
    m andhet ook
    astepclosertotheuncleandhelookeddown
    athim si
    ncetheuncleissit
    ti
    ngdownwi t
    ha
    scar
    yfr
    ownonhi
    sface*
    **
    Heath:l
    ist
    enher eyouoldfart
    ..
    ..
    eatt
    hebread
    andfokoffrom her
    e..
    ..
    iknowwhaty ousaidt
    o
    ourwivesandber estassuredyougonnapay
    fort
    hatnxa
    **
    *het
    henlookedatalloft
    hem andhewal
    ked
    awayl
    eav
    ingthem shocked**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    ***Lorr
    aineandthegir
    lsaresitt
    ingt ogether
    dri
    nkingcoffeewhil
    eMbal iandNal ediarefil
    l
    ing
    them inonwhathappenedatt hecemet ery
    whilefaceti
    mingPhumi .
    ..
    ..
    .Jabur ushedt o
    them andhequicklypul
    ledLollyupandhe
    l
    ookedatherwi thawor r
    iedlookonhi sface***
    Jabu:
    ori
    ght
    ..
    ..
    didhehur
    tyou
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    m ok.
    ..
    Casst
    ookcar
    eoft
    hem
    *
    **helookeddowncl
    enchinghi
    sjawsthenhe
    l
    ookedatherwit
    hasoftlookonhisf
    ace***
    Jabu:
    im sor
    ryIwasn’
    ther
    e
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edl
    i
    ght
    lyathi
    m**
    *
    Lol
    ly
    :hawJabudon’
    tbecrazy.
    ..
    .aker
    eCass
    andThandi
    wereher
    e..
    ..
    keri
    ghtdon’twor
    ry
    Jabu:
    osur
    e
    Lol
    ly:
    mmhnowl eav
    ewar edistur
    b(a)raseba
    mo(nowl eavey
    ouaredi
    stur
    bingus..
    .weare
    gossi
    pingher
    e)
    ***
    theladiesgi
    ggl
    edandJabuchuckl
    edl
    ooking
    atthem andheshookhi
    sheadandhelookedat
    her***
    Jabu:r
    etlaov
    api
    l
    akodl
    adl
    eng(wewi
    l
    ltal
    k
    backathome)
    ***
    shenoddedandhewal
    kedawayandLol
    l
    y
    satdown*
    **
    Mbal
    i
    :mmmmhsoont
    obeMr
    sVi
    l
    akazi
    Lol
    l
    y:wear
    ejustf
    ri
    endsguy
    s
    Nal
    edi
    :ar
    efr
    iends
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughedather
    ***
    Thandi
    :keepf
    ool
    i
    ngy
    our
    sel
    vesshem
    Phumi:bamborabyangbao(theybor
    e
    me).
    ..
    .t
    heyknowt heyl
    ikeeachot
    herbutt
    hey
    ar
    ebothplayi
    nghar dt
    oget
    Lol
    l
    y:guy
    sstop.
    ..
    thedudejustbur
    iedhi
    swi
    fe
    bat
    honghav
    esomer espect
    Phumi:r
    espectyaeng(whatr
    espect
    ).
    ..
    ..
    they
    weresepar
    atedandshewasfucki
    ngsomeone
    el
    se
    Lol
    l
    y:Igi
    veupshem
    Mbal
    i:conti
    nuebeingmot herTheresamogir
    l
    andt
    hey ’
    l
    ltakehimrightunderyournose.
    ..
    .t
    his
    i
    sPret
    or i
    a,thel
    adi
    esher ebayasheshashem
    Ladi
    es:
    mmmmh
    ***Ruslanwal kedt othem andtheykept
    quiet.
    ..
    hehast hisauraaroundhimt hatmakes
    peoplewhoar enotusedt ohimtof eel
    uneasy....
    Hehel pedThandi upandt heywalked
    awayf rom thegi rl
    sandst oodtherefaci
    ngeach
    otherwi thhishandsi nhispockets..
    ..
    Rusl
    an
    l
    ookedatherwi thoutsayi
    ngany thi
    ngand
    Thandi lookeddownf eel
    inguncomf ort
    able**
    *
    Thandi
    :i
    m sor
    rybaby
    Rusl
    an:
    why
    Thandi:Idon’
    tknow.
    ..
    ij
    ustgotangr
    yseei
    ng
    Lol
    lythatscared
    Rusl
    an:
    whatdi
    dIsayaboutf
    ight
    ing
    Thandi
    :aski
    es
    **
    *Shesaidfeeli
    ngbadnowandhepull
    edher
    cl
    oserandkissedthet
    opofherheadandhe
    whisper
    edtoherear**
    *
    Ruu:
    wewi
    l
    lfi
    nisht
    hisconv
    ersat
    ionathome
    ***
    thenhewal
    kedawayandThandi
    swal
    l
    owed
    hard*
    **
    Thandi
    :damni
    tThandi
    .
    ...
    **
    *shewalkedt
    othegi
    rl
    sandshesatdownand
    si
    ghed**
    *
    Mbal
    i
    :looksl
    i
    kesomeonei
    sint
    roubl
    e
    Lol
    l
    y:aski
    esTee
    ***
    Shesai
    dfeeli
    ngbadandThandi
    wav
    edher
    handdi
    smissi
    vel
    y***
    Thandi
    :he’
    smymanandIknowhowt
    ohandl
    e
    hi
    m
    Phumi
    :yeswenagi
    rl
    *
    **t
    heygi
    ggl
    edandLol
    l
    ysi
    ghed*
    **
    Thandi
    :IknowIshoul dn’
    thavebutdamnitfel
    t
    goodkneeinghimlikethat
    ..
    ..
    iswearIf
    elthi
    s
    nutsbr
    eaki nt
    opieces
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ***
    Jabuisbusypaci
    ngupanddownl
    ooki
    ng
    angry
    ***
    Heat
    h:wi
    l
    lyoucal
    m down
    Jabu:
    howthehel
    ldi
    dheknowaboutt
    hisv
    enue
    orwhent
    heburi
    alwi
    llbe
    Ray
    :t hati
    snoti
    mport
    antwhatsi
    mportanti
    sus
    makingsureLol
    l
    yissafef
    rom hi
    scl
    utches
    Snakes:okIhaveonequesti
    onandyoucan
    conti
    nuewithyourangerandpaci
    ngupand
    down
    Jay
    :oohher
    ewego
    Snakes:
    tsek!
    *
    **Jayl
    aughed*
    **
    Snakes:mjavat
    hisLol
    lyofachi
    ckhow
    i
    mpor t
    antisshetoyoucausei
    m notaboutt
    o
    l
    andahandf orsomepassbychickwit
    hagood
    pussyonlymfowethu
    *
    **t
    heyal
    ll
    ookedathi
    m**
    *
    Snakes:
    ngi
    yazi
    buzel
    anj
    e(i
    mjustaski
    ng)
    Jabu:
    she’
    sext
    remel
    yimpor
    tant
    Snakes:
    elabor
    ate
    Jabu:
    elabor
    atey
    ani
    manj
    e
    Snakes:awomanwithagoodanddel
    i
    cious
    pussyisal
    soext
    remelyi
    mport
    ant
    Jay
    :Mamba
    Snakes:what.
    ..
    .hehasconnectionswit
    h
    dangerouspeoplewhogotnot hingtol
    osesoI
    wannaknowhowi mportantshei st
    ohim.
    ..
    i
    wannaknowwhet hert
    oputmybeastmodeon
    ornot
    Jase:
    beastmodeneh
    *
    **t
    henhechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Snakes:
    tsek!
    !
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:
    Iwanthert
    obeMr
    sVi
    l
    akazi
    someday
    Snakes:youseenowt hatwasn’
    thard..
    ..
    goon
    andpaceupanddown. .
    ..
    I’
    l
    lbebackIneedt o
    takeofftheseshoesandwearsandals.
    ..
    eish
    ziyangi
    li
    mazathisVERYexpensi
    veItali
    anshoes
    ofmi ne
    *
    **t
    heguy
    slaughed*
    **
    Jay:
    Mambaasui
    twi
    thsandal
    s..
    .r
    eal
    l
    y
    mfowet
    hu
    Snakes:mywi f
    eisnotheresoIdon’
    thav
    eto
    l
    ookgoodf oranyoneelseandpl
    usngumZul
    u
    mina..
    ..
    any
    thinglooksgoodonme
    Snakes:i
    m af
    ashi
    oni
    sta.
    ..
    thest
    rai
    ght
    JohnTlal
    e
    *
    **t
    heguy
    slaughedoutl
    oudashewal
    kedt
    o
    t
    hei
    rcar
    ***
    Ray
    :yourbr
    otheri
    scr
    azy
    *
    **hesai
    dshaki
    nghi
    shead*
    **
    Jase:wegrewupwi
    thhi
    m andev
    ent
    odayhe
    sti
    l
    lshocksus
    Heath:
    anyway.
    ..
    ..Thi
    sKenneththingi
    snot
    what’
    sworry
    ingmet hatmuch..
    ..
    im mor
    e
    concer
    nedaboutthatwit
    chdoct
    or
    Jay
    :whatwi
    tchdoct
    or
    *
    **Ruusi
    ghed*
    **
    Rusl
    an:IknowwhatIdi datthecemeter
    y
    del
    ayedhim abitbutIknowhewon’tgive
    up.
    ..
    .whati
    m askingmy sel
    fiswhatdoeshe
    wantwithhersoul
    Jase:
    whatar
    eyouguy
    stal
    ki
    ngabout
    **
    *theyfi
    ll
    edt
    heKhumal
    osi
    nandJase
    whist
    led*
    **
    Jay
    :im gl
    adi
    m mar
    ri
    edt
    omychosenone
    Heath:noneoft
    hesethingswouldbe
    happeningi
    fhedidn’
    tfr
    iendzonehissoul
    mat
    e
    Jabu:
    nowi
    snott
    het
    imeman
    Heat
    h:i
    mjustsay
    ing
    *
    **Snakescamebackandj
    oinedt
    heguy
    s**
    *
    Rusl
    an:whatconnect
    iondoeshehavewit
    hyou
    Jabuforhi
    mt owanttouseAmo’ssoul
    Ray
    :im sur
    ethataunthast
    heanswert
    othat
    Jabu:
    whataunt
    Ray
    :Amo’
    saunt
    Jabu:
    heh
    Ruu:she’
    stheonet
    hatt
    ookAmot
    othat
    wit
    chdoctort
    obewi
    tchyou
    Jabu:
    emanyana.
    ..
    oreng..
    ..
    .(waita
    minut
    e..
    ..
    whatdi
    dyoujustsay)
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thanangr
    ylookonhi
    sface*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ATGAZA’
    SHOUSE

    ***
    Marinaandhermotherar
    epacki
    ngher
    thi
    ngsinboxesqui
    etl
    yunti
    lMar
    ina‘
    smother
    spoke*
    **
    Mot
    her
    :hav
    eyouspokenwi
    thMdu
    *
    **Mari
    nastoppedwhatshewasdoi
    ngandshe
    l
    ookedathermother
    ***
    Mar
    ina:
    aft
    erwhathedi
    dtomemama
    *
    **hermot
    hersi
    ghed*
    **
    Mother:
    Isti
    l
    ldon’tthinkhe’stheonethatdid
    t
    hattoyouMarina..
    .thatboylovesyou..
    .he
    wouldn’
    thur
    tyouliket hat
    Mar
    ina:
    Ilov
    eGazaandIst
    il
    lhur
    thi
    m
    Mother
    :mxm don’
    tment
    iont
    hatnamewheni
    m
    ar
    ound..
    ..
    .pl
    ease!
    !
    *
    **Mar
    inaf
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngathermot
    her
    ***
    Mari
    na:whydoy ouhat
    ehim somuch
    mama...
    .whatdi
    dhedot oy
    ouf orhi
    mtohat
    e
    hi
    mt hi
    smuch
    Mot
    her
    :he’
    sjustnotr
    ightf
    ory
    ou.
    ..
    .y
    oudeser
    ve
    t
    obewit
    hMduandnothi m
    Mar
    ina:
    wel
    lIl
    ovehi
    m
    Mot
    her
    :lov
    eal
    onei
    snotenoughMar
    ina
    Mar
    ina:andwhatel
    sedoesMduof
    feront
    opof
    t
    hel
    ov ehehasforme
    Mother:
    y ouwouldn’tunderstand..
    ..
    wenamake
    ti
    meandt al
    ktoMduandf ixthings.
    ..
    .y
    ouhav ea
    chi
    ldtoraiseMarinaandf orgetaboutthatboy
    Gazanxa
    Mar
    ina:
    wow
    Mot
    her
    :or
    iny
    aw.
    ..
    looknowheki
    ckedy
    ouout
    ofhishouseli
    kesomeusedpad..
    .hedoesn’t
    evencarekoreyouborehi
    m achi
    ldnxa..
    ..
    well
    l
    etsseeifhewilll
    i
    veinthi
    shouse
    peaceful
    l
    y..
    ..
    noonehurtsmydaughterandgoes
    scotfr
    ee
    Mari
    na:somet
    imesmamaIdon’
    tev
    enknow
    whoyouare
    Mot
    her:
    imyourmot
    her
    ..
    ..
    igav
    ebi
    rt
    htoy
    ouand
    t
    hat
    ’swhoIam
    ***Mari
    nashookherheadandt earsfi
    ll
    edher
    eyesasshelookedaroundhermat ri
    monial
    bedroom andt
    hememor i
    esitpossessesabout
    herandGazaduringt
    heirhappymoment s*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER36
    .
    .
    .
    MOERA

    ***she’
    sf eel
    inganxiousandshehopesherpl an
    wor ks.
    ..
    .She’
    sbeenst ressedlatel
    yandshe
    needst oletof fsomesteam andwhatbet ter
    wayt hanhav ingroughsexwi thsomeonewho
    knowshowt ohandl eherbody .
    ..
    soshe’sonher
    wayt oseeoneofherf *ckbuddies,herphoneis
    offandshej ustt ol
    dherselfshe’
    lldeal
    with
    Dr
    ench’
    swr
    athlatercausefornowallshe
    want
    sit
    sMikhel
    ’srodinsi
    deofher.
    ..
    ..

    Shepar kshercaront heparki


    ngl otandshe
    get soutwi t
    hherhandbagandshecatwal ked
    i
    nt ot heapar tmentcompl exwithherheart
    poundi nghar dbutsheneedst odot hisand
    may beshecanconf i
    deinMikhel andmay behe
    mi ghtgi veherasol uti
    ontoher
    troubl es..
    .ofcourseshewon’ttellhi
    mt hewhole
    truth, shewi ll
    justcookupast oryclosertothe
    real truth..
    ..
    Sheknocksonhi sdoorandhe
    opensandhesmi l
    eswidely**
    *
    Mikhel
    :fi
    nal
    l
    ythepr
    odi
    gal
    daught
    err
    emember
    s
    daddy
    **
    *shelaughswal
    ki
    ngi
    nandt
    heyhugf
    ora
    whil
    e**
    *
    Moer
    a:mmmmhy
    ousmel
    lgood
    *
    **heki
    ssesherl
    i
    pscl
    osi
    ngt
    hedoorbut
    somethingblocksi
    tandtheystopkissingand
    tur
    nedtof i
    ndadarkmanst andingt
    her e
    l
    ookingscaryandimmediatel
    yMoer a’sheart
    ski
    ppedabeatasshest art
    sshaking..
    ..The
    scaryguypushesthedooropenandwal ksi
    nas
    bothMoeraandMi khel
    mov edback* *
    *
    Mi
    khel
    :who.
    ..
    whoar
    eyou.
    ..
    whatdoy
    ouwant
    *
    **t
    hemanl
    ookedatMoer
    a**
    *
    Man:
    youar
    est
    il
    lher
    e..
    .l
    eav
    e!!
    !
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thascar
    ytone*
    **
    Man:
    andswi
    tchony
    ourf
    uckenphone!
    !!
    **
    *Moeraqui
    ckl
    yrushedoutandt
    heman
    cl
    osedt
    hedoorbehi
    ndher**
    *
    Mikhel
    :l
    ookman.
    ..
    idon’
    tknowwhoy
    ouar
    eand
    i
    ..
    ..
    ***
    thescar
    ymansuckerpunchedMikhel
    betweenhi
    seyesandhefel
    ltothef
    loorand
    passedouti
    nst
    antl
    y.
    ..
    .t
    hemanf i
    xedhisj
    acket
    andhewal
    kedoutcl
    osi
    ngt
    hedoorbehi
    nd
    hi
    m***

    I
    NSI
    DEHERCAR

    ***Shesearchedforherphonei
    nsi
    deherbag
    withherhandsshakingandsheswi
    tchedi
    t
    on***
    Moer a:
    oohGod. ..
    .iknowim asi
    nnerandim
    probablygoi
    ngt ohellbutpl
    easedon’
    tlethi
    m
    turnmei n.
    ..
    ican’
    tgot ojai
    lpl
    ease
    ***shesaidast earsr andownhercheeks...
    .she
    quicklywipedt hem asshewat chedthescary
    manwal koutoft heapar t
    mentcompl exandhe
    wentst rai
    ghttohi scar,hegotinthenthedriver
    start
    edt hecaranddr oveout.
    ..
    ..
    Herphonerang
    andi twasDr ench. ..
    .Shestart
    edshakingand
    contempl ati
    ngonwhet hertoanswerthecallor
    tojustletitri
    ngt ov oicemailbutshedeci
    dedt o
    answeri
    tany
    way
    s**
    *
    Moer
    a:he.
    ..
    hel
    l
    o
    *
    **Dr
    enchdi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Moer
    a:hel
    l
    o
    Dr
    ench:
    youdon’
    tli
    stendoy
    ou
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Drench:orwhatyouwanttoseehowcruel
    Ican
    beforyoutotakemywar ni
    ngsser
    iousl
    y
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    dagai
    n**
    *
    Moer
    a:i
    m sor
    ry
    Dr
    ench:
    whatexact
    lyar
    eyousor
    ryf
    or
    Moer
    a:Ij
    ustwant
    edt
    oletof
    fsomest
    eam
    Dr
    ench:
    youdon’
    tknowwher
    eagy
    mis!
    !!
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Drench:soyoudon’
    tcareaboutt
    hatboy’
    s
    l
    if
    e...
    .y
    ou’r
    elikef
    *cki
    t,i
    fhedieshediesasl
    ong
    asheget
    stof*ckmef i
    rst.
    ..
    .y
    ouneverl
    ear
    ndo
    youandi
    nnocentpeopl
    e’sli
    vesdon’
    tmatt
    ert
    o
    you
    *
    **shest
    il
    lkeptqui
    et*
    **
    Dr
    ench: si
    nceyoul i
    ketobet r
    eatedl
    ikea
    pr
    isonerknowt hatyou’
    regroundedforthe
    wholemont h.
    ..
    whateveryouneedwi l
    lbe
    br
    oughtt oyou.
    ...
    nowdriveoutofthatf*
    cken
    pl
    ace
    ***
    hethendroppedthecallandshest
    art
    ed
    cry
    ing.
    ..
    .af
    terhercr
    yingsessi
    onshestar
    tedher
    caranddroveout**
    *
    .
    .
    .

    LATERI
    NTHEAFTERNOONATJABU’
    SPLACE
    ***Hisclosef amilymember sarestil
    lar ound
    whereelseRuul eftwit
    hhi sf
    amilyandHeat h
    di
    dsot oo...
    theKhumal obrother
    salsol eftand
    Jabu’smot her,hiscousins,t
    heboy sand
    grandparentsaret heonlyonesleft.
    ..
    .Hei snow
    i
    nhi sbedroom wi thLoll
    yandshe’ ssitt
    ingwi t
    h
    herbackagai nsttheheadboar dandhe’ sresti
    ng
    hi
    sheadonherl apsleepingasshemassages
    hi
    sheadsl owl y.
    ...

    Thedooropenedandi nwalkedhismot herand


    shefrownedlookingatthem, Loll
    ystopped
    massaginghim andsheswal lowedhar dcause
    theposit
    iontheyareindidn’
    tlookr i
    ghttoan
    elderandthatfrownonhi smot her’
    sface
    meantshewasn’ tpleased**
    *
    J.
    mot
    her
    :Jabul
    ani
    !!
    !
    *
    **hequi
    ckl
    yopenedhi
    seyesandt
    urnedt
    o
    l
    ooktowar
    dsthedoor*
    **
    Jabu:
    Ma
    J.
    mot
    her
    :imi
    hlol
    ayani
    le
    ***
    hefr
    ownedashesatupont
    hebedandLol
    l
    y
    qui
    ckl
    ygotoutoft
    hebed*
    **
    Jabu:
    uyaphi(
    wher
    ear
    eyougoi
    ng)
    ***
    heaskedLorrai
    nebutshedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng
    shejustl
    ookeddown**
    *
    J.
    mot
    her
    :sot
    hisi
    sappr
    opr
    iat
    etoy
    ouJabul
    ani
    *
    **hef
    rownedathi
    smot
    her
    ***
    J.
    mot
    her
    :andwena
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngatLor
    rai
    ne*
    **
    J.
    mot her
    :hejustburi
    edhi
    swi f
    eandyou’r
    ehere
    i
    nhisbedroom massaginghim..
    ..
    hehasn’
    tev
    en
    cl
    eansedy etandyoutwoarealr
    eadybei
    ng
    l
    oviedovei
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghed*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:nomaIwasj
    ust.
    ..
    J.mother:
    ufunanii
    nt hefi
    rstpl
    aceinhis
    room...
    ist
    hishowy ouwerer ai
    sedLorrai
    ne
    heh..
    .i
    m sureyourgrandmotheristur
    ninginher
    graveri
    ghtnowseeingy ouembar r
    assherlike
    thi
    s
    Jabu:
    woohma.
    ..
    .st
    opr
    ightt
    her
    e
    J.
    mot
    her
    :wenakeept
    hatmout
    hofy
    our
    sshut
    !!
    Jabu:manotnowpl ease.
    ..
    .wedi
    dn’
    tdo
    anyt
    hingIaskedhertocomeinhere
    J.
    mother
    :whyi
    nhere.
    ..
    doesn’
    tthi
    shousehav
    e
    al
    oungeandasi
    tt
    ingroom orabal
    cony
    Lorr
    aine:i
    m sor
    ryma.
    ..
    itwon’
    thappen
    agai
    n...
    .I
    ’
    llst
    ayawayf
    rom hi
    m unti
    lheget
    s
    cl
    eansed
    Jabu:
    thatwonthappen
    J.mother
    :im di
    sappoi
    ntedi
    nbothofy ou.
    ..
    .now
    Iseethatyourcousi
    nsarer
    ightaboutthetwo
    ofyou..
    ..
    niy
    ajol
    a
    Lol
    l
    y:what
    ..
    .nowear
    enot
    Jabu:
    eveni
    fwear
    eit
    snobody
    ’sbusi
    ness
    J.mother
    :awunamahloni Jabul
    ani
    (youhaveno
    shameJabulani)
    ..
    ..
    youjustburi
    edyourwif
    eand
    notyourex-
    wife.
    ..
    .separati
    onmeansnothi
    ng
    shewasst i
    l
    lyourwife
    Jabu:osaethomaeomagr iza.
    ..
    .(don’
    tevengo
    ther
    e).
    ..
    .akenyakegokwataassombl i
    ef(Idon’
    t
    wannagetangr ypl
    ease)
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    J.
    mot
    her
    :yout
    wowantt
    ogetsi
    cki
    sthati
    t
    Jabu:mawear
    enotdoi
    ngany
    thi
    ng..
    ..
    shewas
    watchi
    ngt
    vwhi
    leIwast
    ryi
    ngt
    osleep
    J.
    mot
    her
    :ist
    hist
    heonl
    yroom wi
    that
    v
    Jabu:
    yhoIgi
    veup
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    tingoffthebedandhewentt
    o
    t
    hebathr
    oom pissedoff*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:i
    m sor
    ryma
    **
    * Jabu’
    smotherj
    ustlookedatherandshe
    cl
    ickedhert
    ongue***
    J.
    mot her
    :wheny oustartgett
    ingsickyou’
    l
    l
    bl
    amehi m angit
    hi.
    ..
    .makgomeat engsesi
    nyana
    andabolaya..
    ..
    don’tbl
    amemysonwheny ou
    star
    tgett
    ingsick.
    ..
    ..
    supperisready
    ***
    shethenwal kedoutandLorr
    aineswal
    lowed
    hardandshesighed..
    .shepi
    ckedherphoneand
    walkedoutofthebedroom j
    ustasJabuwalked
    outofthebathr
    oom* **
    Jabu:
    Lo.
    ..
    ..
    ***
    Sheclosedthedoorandwal kedaway
    i
    gnoringhi
    scallandheclenchedhisj
    awsand
    satdownont heedgeofthebed* *
    *
    .
    .
    .
    Gogo:hawuhambauy aphiLor
    raine(wher
    ear
    e
    yougoingLorr
    aine)
    ..
    ..
    itsl
    ateim suret
    heis
    plent
    yofroomsherefory outosleep
    J.
    mother
    :yenanoJabubay
    enzaamany
    alaand
    nowshe’
    sacti
    ngupmxm
    **
    * Lor
    rai
    neswal
    l
    owedhar
    dast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledher
    eyes***
    Lol
    l
    y:wedidn’
    tdoany thi
    ng.
    ..
    ..
    iwasinhi
    sroom
    tot
    alkt
    ohimthenhesai dhewantstolaydown
    abi
    tandIshouldn’
    tleaveandthat
    ’si
    t
    J.mother:whatwashi
    sheaddoingonyour
    l
    ap...
    .ushonel
    weuJabu.
    ..
    he’
    snotevencleansed
    yetandalreadyi
    sheadisontopofyou
    Jabu:
    that
    ’senough!
    !!
    !
    *
    **t
    her
    oom becamequi
    et*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:ummm gogoI
    ’
    llcal
    lyouwhenIgett
    her
    e
    *
    **shewal
    kedaway
    ***
    Jabu:
    uyaphi
    ***
    sheignoredhim andwentupst
    air
    stotake
    herthi
    ngswithtearsrunni
    ngdownher
    cheeks.
    ..
    thetwocousinssmil
    edsati
    sfi
    edwit
    h
    whatjusthappened***
    Jabu:
    andni
    nawhyar
    eyousmi
    l
    ingnobubi
    Them:
    hahbhut
    i
    Jabu:
    fot
    sekI
    ’
    lldeal
    wit
    hyout
    wol
    ater
    !!
    !
    *
    **t
    heykeptqui
    etandhel
    ookedathi
    smot
    her
    f
    orsometime**
    *
    Jabu:
    youal
    way
    sknowhowt
    orui
    nmyl
    i
    fe
    J.mother
    :aski
    es.
    ..
    .somebeingwor
    riedabout
    yourheal
    thandstoppi
    ngyoutwofr
    om making
    ami st
    akeismeruini
    ngyourl
    if
    e
    Jabu:y
    oufai
    ltotel
    lmewhomyf atheri
    sbut
    you’
    requi
    ckt
    obashapoorwomanf orbeing
    ther
    efory
    ourson..
    ..
    forl
    ist
    eni
    ngt
    omer ant
    aboutmymessedupl i
    fe
    Gogo:
    hai
    Jabul
    ani
    !!
    !
    *
    **sher
    epr
    imandedhi
    m**
    *
    Jabu:shebroughtAmoheret omesswithme
    andthesamewomanshe’ st al
    kingt
    oli
    kethat
    i
    sthesamewomant hatconv i
    ncedmeto
    for
    giveherandseethi
    ngsfrom herper
    spect
    ive
    asamot her
    *
    **hi
    smot
    hersi
    ghed*
    **
    Jabu:youcould’vepol
    it
    elysai
    dsheshouldstay
    awayuntil
    im cleansednotwhatyoudid.
    ..
    icant
    bel
    iev
    ey oudidt hatma.
    ..
    toLorrai
    nenogal
    ***heshookhisheadandwal kedupstai
    rsand
    Jabu’smothergotupandwal kedawaywi t
    h
    tearsi
    nhereyes..
    .shecouldn’
    tbel
    ieveherown
    sonspoket oherl
    ikethatbecauseof
    Lorrai
    ne**
    *
    Gogo:
    yhohai
    Idon’
    tknowany
    mor
    e
    Mkhulu:Jabuhasissuesdeeperthanwhatt
    hat
    Amogi r
    l di
    dtohim..
    ..
    ithi
    nkall
    thisbadl
    uck
    he’
    sfacingisbecausehedoesn’tknowwhere
    hecomesf r
    om...
    .heneedst oknowhisf
    ather
    ’s
    si
    de...
    .heneedstobei ntr
    oducedtohi
    s
    ancestorsandtherightri
    tual
    sdoneforhi
    m...
    ..
    i
    tstimey ourdaughtertel
    lhim whohi
    sfat
    heris
    sthandwasam
    *
    **gogosi
    ghed*
    **
    Gogo:shef
    ail
    edtotel
    lusherpar
    ent
    s
    baba.
    ..
    whatofherownson
    Mkhul
    u:well
    sheneedstotel
    lhi
    m whethershe
    l
    ikesi
    tornot
    ..
    ..
    thi
    sboyhassuff
    eredenough
    man
    *
    **hegotupandwal
    kedaway
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    Jabu:
    cany
    ouj
    ustst
    op!
    Lol
    l
    y:noy
    oust
    op
    Jabu:
    Lor
    rai
    ne
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabu
    ***
    helookedatherf
    orsometimet
    henhe
    chuckl
    edshaki
    nghisheadandhemovedcl
    oser
    toher*
    **
    Jabu:awov ai
    ye(y
    ouar
    enotgoi
    ngany
    wher
    e)
    andthat’
    sthat
    Lol
    ly
    :Jabuyourmom i
    smadangr
    yandIdon’
    t
    wannasteponhert
    oes
    Jabu:shehasherownbighouseIboughtfor
    hersothatIhavemyownspace..
    ..
    tomorrow
    shewilll
    eaveandyouwontst
    eponhert oes
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabut
    hisi
    sser
    ious
    ***
    Hebrushedherchi
    ngent
    lyandshel
    ooked
    downandtookastepback*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:Jabumhmh
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Jabu:
    oganang
    Lol
    l
    y:Ineedt
    oleav
    e
    Jabu:Isai
    dawov
    aiy
    e(y
    ouar
    enotgoi
    ng
    anywhere)
    ***
    shesi
    ghedandsatdownont
    heedgeoft
    he
    bed**
    *
    Loll
    y:nothi
    ngi
    sev ereasyformewaitsi
    .
    ...
    ithi
    nk
    Ineedsomeseriouscleansingt
    hisbadluckI
    haveistoomuch
    *
    **Jabusi
    ghedandhesatnextt
    oher
    ***
    Jabu:
    ratshwana(wear
    ethesame).
    ..
    .y
    ou
    knowtodayaft
    eral
    ongt
    imeIwishedmyfat
    her
    wasnexttome
    *
    **hesi
    ghedandbi
    thi
    slowerl
    i
    p**
    *
    Loll
    y:im sur
    eonal
    entj
    ebegotshwanal
    wena
    (im surehehasabear
    djustl
    i
    keyou)
    *
    **hel
    aughedandshej
    oinedhi
    m**
    *
    Jabu:osav
    ayakaov
    rai
    za(don’
    tgoi
    m beggi
    ng
    you)
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Loll
    y:t
    otellyouthetr
    uthIdon’
    twantt
    oleave
    causeim scaredKennywil
    lfi
    ndmeand..
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesi
    ghedwi
    thashakybr
    eat
    h**
    *
    Lolly:
    whenIsawhi mtodayaf t
    erIlearned
    aboutwhathedoes, api
    ctureofBusi si
    we’s
    decomposi nglitt
    lebodyflashedi nmy
    mi nd.
    ...
    .I
    ’
    venev erbeenscar edli
    kethatinmy
    l
    ife..
    ..
    ithappenedt hatIj
    ustgotoutoft hetoil
    et
    orelseIwoul d’
    v emessedonmy sel
    f
    *
    **Hehel
    dherhandandsqueezedi
    tgent
    ly*
    **
    Jabu:
    youwonthav
    etodeal
    wit
    hhi
    m
    Loll
    y:he’sgonnaf
    indmeJabu.
    ..
    ithi
    nkhe’s
    obsesseswi t
    hmeorsomethi
    ng..
    ..
    icantst
    ay
    hereforeverandI
    ’
    llhav
    etof
    acehim oneof
    theseday s
    Jabu:
    you’
    renotgoi
    nganywher
    eandI
    ’
    llki
    l
    lhi
    m
    i
    fhegetscl
    osetoyouagai
    n
    Lol
    l
    y:haahJabu
    Jabu:im seri
    ousLorr
    aine.
    ..
    ..
    komokhawata
    blaen(I’
    l
    l ser
    iousl
    ydealwit
    hhim)i
    fhetr
    ieshi
    s
    shitagai
    n
    **
    *sheputherheadonhisshoul
    derandsi
    ghed
    astear
    sfi
    ll
    edhereyes*
    **
    Lol
    l
    y:whati
    f.
    ..
    .whati
    fBusi
    wasabduct
    edbyhi
    s
    boy
    sandthey.
    ..
    ***
    hertear
    srushedoutandJabutur
    nedand
    pul
    ledhertohi
    schestasshecri
    ed***
    Jabu:don’
    tgobacktot
    hatpl
    aceLol
    l
    ykao
    vr
    aiza(im beggi
    ngy
    ou)
    *
    **shemovedf
    rom hi
    sembr
    acewi
    pingher
    t
    earsof
    f**
    *
    Loll
    y:yourmom mi
    ghtwal
    kinandst
    art
    scol
    dingusagai
    n
    *
    **shegi
    ggl
    edabi
    t**
    *
    Jabu:
    mxm
    *
    **hegotup*
    **
    Jabu:Let
    sgositout
    sideket
    lhokasomefr
    esh
    ai
    rnyana(Iminneedofsomef r
    eshair
    )
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandgotupandf
    oll
    owedhi
    m**
    *
    .
    .
    .

    _
    ___

    ***Gazadrovei
    nsi
    deAl
    phal
    ett
    e’sy
    ardand
    parkedthecarandt
    henhel
    ookedathi
    ssonat
    theback***
    Gaza:
    arey
    ougoodmyboy
    *
    **Ny
    ikonodded*
    **
    Ny
    iko:
    isuncl
    eTshepoher
    e
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:
    yeahandAJi
    sal
    soher
    e
    Ny
    iko:
    babaNt
    sako’
    sson
    *
    **Gazanodded*
    **
    Gaza:
    mmmmh
    Ny
    iko:
    ok
    Gaza:
    yougonnabeagoodboyaner
    e
    Ny
    iko:
    mmmmh
    ***hesai
    dnoddingandGazaopenedhi sdoor
    andhegotoutt henhewenttoopenadoorf or
    hissonandhegotoutandGazacl osedhis
    doorandheldhishandastheywalkedtothe
    doorandtheyfoundAlphal
    ett
    ewaiti
    ngf or
    them..
    ..
    .HebrohuggedGeeanddidhi s
    signat
    urehandshakewit
    hNy i
    koandhepi cked
    hi
    m upandt heywal
    kedi
    nside.
    ..
    ..
    .t
    heyfound
    Tshepo,MasaiandAJsi
    tt
    inginthelounge
    watchi
    ngTV* **
    Ny
    iko:
    uncl
    eTee
    ***
    hesaidjustasAlphawasputti
    nghim down
    andherushedtoTshepoandTshepogotup
    andpi
    ckedhi m upandtheyhugged*
    **
    Tshepo:
    mfanaka.
    ..
    ori
    ght
    **
    *Nyi
    konoddedandTshepof
    elthi
    s
    sweat
    pant
    sbeingpul
    l
    edanditwasAJ*
    **
    Tshepo:
    Champ
    ***hesai
    dputt
    ingNy i
    kodownandAJlookedat
    Ny i
    koandasmi l
    eslowlyfor
    medonhisf
    ace
    andhehuggedNy iko.
    ..
    .t
    heelder
    swat
    ched
    them qui
    etl
    y**
    *
    AJ:
    Khul
    uishhappy
    ..
    ..
    hesmi
    l
    ing
    *
    **Hesai
    dsmil
    i
    ngandNy
    ikol
    ookedatTshepo
    t
    henatAJ**
    *
    AJ:doy
    oul
    i
    keshpi
    derman
    *
    **Ny
    ikonoddedandAJhel
    dhi
    shand*
    **
    AJ:arey
    e..
    ..
    ihav
    eshpi
    dermanandcarand
    andandtr
    uckandandand.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesaidpull
    inghimtowardshi
    spl
    ayr
    oom
    l
    eav
    ingtheeldersper
    plexed**
    *
    Tshepo:
    whatj
    usthappenedandwho’
    sKhul
    u
    ***
    Masaij
    ustsi
    ghedshewasstil
    lfi
    ndi
    ngithar
    d
    tocometoter
    mswiththefactt
    hatthi
    sis
    gonnabeherl
    it
    tl
    ebaby’
    sli
    fenow***
    Al
    pha:
    randzor
    ami
    na
    ***
    shegoupasheandGazagotcl
    osert
    o
    her*
    **
    Alpha:
    thi
    sisGazamybrot
    her
    ..
    ..
    Geethi
    sist
    he
    onethatownsmyhear
    tMasaiRapul
    a
    Gaza:
    theonet
    hatownshi
    sshapel
    esshear
    t
    onj
    ani
    *
    **Masai
    laughedshaki
    nghi
    shand*
    **
    Masai
    :i
    m goodandy
    ou
    Gaza:
    ahhaslongasim st
    il
    lbr
    eat
    hingim
    good.
    ..
    .i
    m gl
    adyouok.
    ..
    myboyherelookedl
    i
    ke
    azombiewhenyouwerehospi
    tal
    i
    zed
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tmi
    ndhi
    mlov
    e
    *
    **hesai
    dtur
    ningherf
    aceandheper
    kedher
    l
    i
    psandshelookeddownshyl
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    you’
    remaki
    nghershy
    Al
    pha:
    Masashy
    ..
    .hai
    suka
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Masai
    :mxm
    *
    **shesai
    dsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Gaza:
    itsni
    cemeet
    ingy
    ouf
    orr
    eal
    mamakaboy
    *
    **shenoddedsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Masai:i
    tsni
    cet
    omeety
    out
    ooRamogol
    o
    kaboy
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:yeeermamakaboyhi
    mbhur
    i(boy
    ’s
    motherisbeaut
    if
    ul)
    Al
    pha:
    youbet
    terr
    ecogni
    ze
    *
    **GazalaughedandMasai
    wonder
    edwhat
    Mbhuri
    mean* **
    Masai
    :whatdoesmbhur
    imean
    ***
    shesai
    dlooki
    ngupatAl
    phawithacuteface
    whichmadehishear
    tmel
    t.
    ..
    .hel
    ovedherfor
    sure*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    itmeansbeaut
    if
    ul
    *
    **shesmil
    edwi
    del
    yandheandGaza
    l
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    lookathersmi
    l
    ingl
    i
    ket
    hat
    ***
    theyl
    aughed.
    ..
    ..
    ..
    thenGazahuggedTshepo
    andhebrushedhi
    shead***
    Gaza:
    tihomesay
    ini
    boy
    s(what
    supboy
    s)
    Tshepo:
    ahhnexuncl
    e..
    .i
    m gl
    ady
    ou’
    reok
    Gaza:met
    oomyboy
    ..
    ..
    met
    oo.
    ..
    .sohow’
    s
    school
    Tshepo:
    hect
    icbuti
    m st
    udy
    inghar
    d
    *
    **Gazanodded*
    **
    Gaza:
    that
    ’sgoodt
    oknow.
    ..
    .wai
    tami
    nut
    e
    *
    **hesai
    dinspect
    inghi
    sface*
    **
    Gaza:
    ist
    hatabear
    d
    *
    **Tshepol
    aughedshy
    ly*
    **
    Gaza:
    waj
    ola(
    youar
    edat
    ing)
    Tshepo:
    hhaaahuncl
    eof
    cour
    senot
    *
    **t
    heyl
    aughed*
    **
    Alpha: i
    t’
    sanotabear dkeleshishilagala.
    ..
    .l
    o
    foforegaesekgal e..
    .ereaber ekisemalaot l
    a
    bona(i t
    spubichai rcausedbyhi sunclean
    system....
    itwi
    lldi
    sappear .
    ..
    lethi
    m cleanhis
    system andy ou’l
    lsee)
    *
    **l
    aught
    erer
    upt
    edi
    nthel
    ounge*
    **
    Tshepo:
    papa.
    ..
    real
    l
    y
    Al
    pha:
    kadl
    alamf
    anaka(i
    m ki
    ddi
    ngmyboy
    )
    ***
    Masai i
    sbusylaughingsoi
    sGazaand
    Tshepojustshookhisheadsmil
    i
    ngandhe
    fol
    lowedtheboys***
    .
    .
    .

    AROUND9ATNI
    GHT

    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’sup
    **
    *Gazacal
    ledhimtotheki
    tchen.
    ..
    theboy
    sar
    e
    sl
    eepi
    ngandMasai wasupstai
    rswith
    Al
    phalet
    tewhil
    eTshepoiswatchi
    ngTV***
    Gaza:
    im goi
    ngt
    oseeTshi
    mo
    Al
    pha:
    ok
    Gaza:I’
    l
    lbebacktomorrowmor
    ningbef
    ore
    Nyikowakesup.
    ..
    .you’
    l
    lcall
    mei
    fanythi
    ng
    happens
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    twor
    ry
    Gaza:
    sho
    Al
    pha:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    yeah
    Al
    pha:
    ahhhnexshap
    Gaza:
    shap
    *
    **hewal
    kedbackt
    othel
    ounge*
    **
    Gaza:
    boy
    s
    Tshepo:
    uncl
    e
    Gaza:
    tomor
    row
    ***TsheponoddedandGazawal kedoutlocki
    ng
    thedoorandthesecuri
    tydoorafter
    ..
    ..
    Alphal
    ett
    e
    sighedandhewentupstair
    s..
    ..
    hecheckedon
    t
    heboy
    sfi
    rstt
    henhewentt
    oMasai
    ***

    _
    ___

    ATTSHI
    MO’
    SHOUSE

    ***Gazapar kedhiscarandhegotoutofhi scar


    andl ockeditandhel ookedatTshi most andi
    ng
    byt hedoorsmi li
    ng.
    ...heleanedonhi scar
    crossinghislegsandf oldinghisarms..
    ..she
    smi l
    edshy l
    ywal ki
    ngt ohim andasshegot
    closertohim heopenedhi sarmsandshe
    huggedhi m wrappingherar msar oundhisbody
    andhedi dthesame. .
    ..
    hepi ckedherupandshe
    wr appedherlegsaroundhi stor
    sostil
    lhugging
    him andhewal kedinsidethehousewi t
    hher
    l
    iket hat.
    ..
    ..
    Theygoti nsi
    deandheputherdownandhe
    l
    ockedt heburglardoorandlockedthedoor
    al
    sot henhecuppedherf aceandheki ssedher
    catchi
    ngherbysur pri
    se..
    ..
    hedeepenedt hekiss
    assheki ssedhim back.
    ..
    .t
    heykissedforsome
    ti
    meandbyt histi
    met heyarebothfeeli
    nghot
    wit
    ht hei
    rheartspoundinghard...
    .hepicksher
    upagainandwentt oherbedroom withherand
    sheknewt hi
    swasi t
    ***

    #MDAVASO

    ***He’sbrushingherbar
    et hi
    ghwhi
    lekissi
    ng
    herforeheadandhisrodkeepsgett
    ingharder
    andhar derandasforTshimohermindisall
    over.
    ..
    .shecantbeli
    eveshesleptwi
    thyet
    anothermar r
    iedman***
    Gaza:
    don’
    tov
    ert
    hinkt
    hingsmama
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Gaza:t
    hiswasn’tamistake.
    ..
    .i
    twasboundt
    o
    happenitj
    usthappenedtohappentoday
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    itsst
    il
    lwr
    ong
    Gaza:
    noi
    tsnot
    Tshi
    mo:
    im ser
    iousGee
    Gaza:
    im ser
    ioust
    ooandwear
    enotaboutt
    o
    ar
    gueaboutit
    *
    **shej
    ustsi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:i
    mf i
    l
    ingfordi
    vor
    cei
    nfactIhav
    eal
    ready
    cont
    actedmylawyer
    Tshi
    mo:
    why
    Gaza:
    shehasababywi
    thmycousi
    n
    Tshi
    mo:
    wai
    twhat
    ***
    shesai
    draisi
    ngherheadt
    olookathim and
    shesawthathewasseri
    ousaboutwhathejust
    sai
    d***
    Gaza: t
    her easonIwasi nvolv
    edi nanacci dent
    andendedupbei ngki dnappedwasIcaught
    them andt heexcousi nbr aggedt hatthe
    pregnancyt hatIthoughtwasmi nei sactuall
    y
    hisandt hattheyst atedf *cki
    ngbef oreIev en
    mar r
    iedher .
    ..
    ..
    soi t
    iedt hem upr eadytokill
    them afterIbeatt hecr apoutoft hefooland
    ri
    ghtbefor eIwasaboutt opullthet r
    igger
    Ntsakocal l
    edandt alkedmeoutofi t.
    ..
    .iwas
    dri
    vingtomyf ather’shousewhent heaccident
    happenedandIwaski dnapped
    *
    **shesatuplooki
    ngathi
    m wi
    thahor
    ri
    fi
    ed
    l
    ookonherface***
    Gaza: whenIwenthomeIf oundthem inmy
    housewi ththeirbabywhilemysonwasatmy
    father’
    shouseandappar entl
    yhe’sbeent her
    e
    sinceIwaski dnapped..
    ..
    mysondi dn’tdeser
    ve
    tost ayathi
    sf ather
    ’shouset hathebuildwit
    h
    hishar dear
    nedmoneywhi l
    eanot herman’s
    childdeserv
    edt ostaythere
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohmyGod
    ***
    shesai
    dputt
    ingherhandonhermout
    hwi
    th
    herey
    espoppedout**
    *
    Tshi
    mo:
    Gee
    *
    **hebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Gaza:
    likeIsaidonthephone.
    ..
    .mysi
    ster
    sare
    t
    hrowingapar t
    yformeandIwouldli
    kefory
    ou
    t
    obet here.
    ..
    .myfamil
    yneedtomeetthe
    womant hatsavedmylif
    e
    Tshi
    mo:
    but
    ..
    .
    Gaza:
    nobutsmama.
    ..
    .pl
    ease.
    ..
    .y
    oumeanal
    ot
    t
    omeandt hi
    swil
    lmakemehappy
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    soy
    ourwi
    fe.
    ..
    .wontshebet
    her
    e
    *
    **shesai
    dwi
    thal
    owt
    one*
    **
    Gaza:
    no
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedout
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:Ineedt
    obebackbySundaycauseI
    havewor
    konMonday
    Gaza:
    oknopr
    obl
    em
    Tshi
    mo:
    wher
    edi
    dyoul
    eav
    eNy
    iko
    Gaza:
    he’
    satNt
    sako’
    spl
    ace
    Tshi
    mo:howdi
    dy oul
    eav
    ehi
    m..
    ..
    im sur
    ehe
    wassadwhenyoulef
    t
    Gaza:Iwai
    tedforhi
    m andAJt
    ofal
    lasl
    eep
    bef
    oreIlef
    t.
    ..
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza:youshould’veseenAJNt sako’
    sson
    whenhesawNy i
    kof orthef
    ir
    stti
    me...
    .he
    rushedtohughi m andhesaidKhuluis
    happy..
    ..
    ist
    il
    lcantbel i
    evehi
    sgifthasbeen
    acti
    vatedatthatyoungage
    Tshi
    mo:maybeast
    imegoesi
    twi
    llsubsideand
    maybeel
    evat
    eagai
    noncehe’
    sol
    dernyana
    Gaza:
    Ihopeso.
    ..
    he’
    stooy
    oungf
    orsucht
    hings
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    yeahat
    leasthi
    sfat
    heri
    sther
    etogui
    de
    hi
    m
    Gaza: mhhh..
    ..
    .Iwi
    shtheygrowupclosejust
    l
    ikeNt sakoandIdidandtheynev
    erbetrayeach
    otherorletanyonecomebetweentheir
    brotherhood
    Tshi
    mo:Iwishtomeethi
    mi nfactt
    hem
    someday
    ..
    ..
    yoursonandnephew
    Gaza:
    youmeant
    omor
    row
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    eishkane
    Gaza:
    ireal
    l
    ywanty
    out
    omeetmyf
    ami
    l
    y
    Tshi
    mo: Ihaveabadf eel
    ingaboutthis
    weekend..
    ..
    whatifyourwife’
    sfamilydoesn’
    t
    l
    ikemypr esencethere.
    ..
    idon’twannabe
    bewit
    chednna. .
    ..
    bathobakoBushbal oyaGee
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    soy
    oumeankal
    oyal
    enna
    Tshimo:you’l
    lnev
    erknow..
    ..
    maybeonl oy
    il
    e
    (youbewitchedme)..
    ..
    isai
    dIwasnev erever
    gonnaassociatemysel
    fwithamarri
    edman
    i
    ntimatel
    yandhereIam withastr
    etchedv agi
    na
    str
    etchedbyaTsongaman’ shugebazooka
    *
    **Gazal
    aughedoutl
    oud*
    **
    Tshimo: don’tlaugh..
    .im sur
    egenkabul
    amaoto
    nouandwat l
    hodimel ayou’l
    lseemyint
    est
    ines
    (ifIopenmyl egswi denowandy outakea
    peeky ou’l
    lseemyi ntest
    ines)
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    olaughwi
    thhi
    sdeepv
    oice*
    **
    Tshimo:mynununev ermadef ar
    tsoundaf
    ter
    sexkelantl
    ha(it’
    sthef i
    rstti
    me)andIwas
    embarrassedthi
    nkingIfartedkgant
    henoke
    kukuyabolela(Ifart
    edbutnoi twasmynunu
    tal
    ki
    ng)
    Gaza:
    mamawoohassombl
    i
    ef
    *
    **hesai
    dlaughi
    ngwi
    tht
    ear
    scomi
    ngout
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:ontl
    halefel
    aobuset sakukuyakathe
    wayoekreil
    engorkogol oya..
    ..
    kengwanyana
    waHammanskr aalnna(ifi
    thappensyoubr eak
    upwithmeyoubet t
    erfi
    xmynanaorel seI’
    ll
    bewi
    tchyou.
    ..
    im achickfr
    om Hammanskr aal)
    ***
    hecont
    inuedt
    olaughunt
    ilhecal
    med
    down*
    **
    Gaza:don’
    twor
    ryi
    m nev
    erl
    ett
    ingy
    ou
    go.
    ..
    .y
    ou’remi
    nemama
    ***hesaidashef l
    i
    ppedt hem wit
    hheratthe
    bott
    om andhim ont opandhegotbet weenher
    l
    egsandposi t
    ionedhisrodwhilelooki
    nginher
    eyeswithalovi
    ngsmi l
    eonhi sfaceandhe
    str
    etchedherasheent er
    edherh* l
    e***
    Gaza:sh*t
    ..
    ..
    .it
    hinkim nowaddictedtoy
    ouand
    yourhotcooki
    e..
    ..nevergi
    veanothermanthi
    s
    cooki
    emamaorel seI’
    l
    lgocrazy
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thasof
    tvoi
    ceandshemoaned
    sof
    tl
    yashemov edhi
    swaistsl
    owlygoingi
    n
    andoutofherandtheymadelove***
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER37
    .
    .
    .
    ATALPHALETTE’
    SPLACE
    (
    INTHEMI
    DDLEOFTHENI
    GHT)

    Voi
    ce:
    Ntsako.
    ..
    .Nt
    sakoweeeh
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmh
    Voi
    ce:
    Ntsakoman
    ***heopenedhi seyesandl ookedaroundand
    hef oundanoldmanst andinginthemiddleof
    ther oom.
    ..
    .helookedar oundandhewasn’ ti
    n
    hisbedroom...
    ..
    thi
    sr oom lookedli
    kea
    roundabouthousewi t
    hat hatchedroof*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    whoar
    eyou.
    ..
    .whyam Iher
    e
    **
    *hesai
    dsi
    tt
    ingupandhecoul
    dseehewas
    sl
    eepi
    ngont
    opofagrassmatonthef
    loor
    ***
    Man:
    tanaot
    ahl
    amba(comeandbat
    h)
    *
    **t
    heol
    dmanpoi
    ntedatabi
    gst
    eel
    basi
    n**
    *
    Man:
    sukuy
    ima(st
    andup)
    *
    **hest
    oodupst
    il
    ll
    ooki
    ngatt
    heman*
    **
    Man:
    tanaot
    ahl
    amba(comeandbat
    h)
    ***
    hefoundhimselfwal
    ki
    ngt othesteelbasi
    n
    andhelookedinsi
    deandthewat erwaspurpl
    e
    i
    ncolourandhef r
    ownedlooki
    ngatt heold
    man***
    Al
    pha:why.
    ..
    hiwenamaniandwhykof
    anel
    e
    ni
    hlamba(whoareyouandwhyshoul
    dIbat
    h)
    Man:
    Mir
    ingo(t
    empt
    ati
    on)
    Al
    pha:
    heh
    Man:
    miri
    ngoNtsakot
    anaota
    hl
    amba(t
    emptai
    onsNtsakocomeandbat
    h)
    ***t
    henhewokeupwi thhishear tbeati
    ng
    fast.
    ..
    .her eal
    izedthathewasdr eamingashe
    l
    ookedar oundhisbedr oom...
    ..
    hel ookedat
    Masai sleepingwi thherheadonhi schest
    snori
    ngal it
    tl
    ewi thherhandinsidehi sbri
    efs
    holdi
    nghi sst i
    ffrod..
    ..
    hebreathedoutand
    sighedlooki
    ngupandhewi pedhisfacewith
    thefreehandsincetheotheroneisholdi
    ng
    Masai andheclosedhiseyesandt r
    iedtosleep
    again..
    .Heneededtorestcausetheywill
    be
    drivi
    ngdownt oBushbuckri
    dgeinacoupl eof
    hours***
    .
    .
    .

    ***Masai i
    swokenupi ntheearl
    yhoursoft he
    mor ningbyAlphal
    etteopeningherlegswi de
    andhi sheaddisappearingbetweenherlegs..
    ..
    a
    softmoanescapedhermout handhedidhi s
    dutyasmanbyeat inghercookieup..
    ..
    aftershe
    camehewentt oherf aceandkissedher
    maki nghertast
    eher sel
    f..
    ..
    shefel
    this
    mushr oom headonherent ranceandhepushed
    himsel fi
    nmakinghermoan* **
    Masai
    :sh*
    tbaby
    *
    **shesaidsof
    tl
    yandhepushedallofi
    tin
    makinghermoanlouderashest
    ret
    chedher*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    f*ckImi
    ssedy
    our
    andzor
    ami
    na
    ***
    hesai
    dashest
    art
    edmov
    ingi
    nandoutof
    hersl
    owl
    y**
    *

    #MDAVASO

    _
    ___

    ***Alphal
    ette’
    smot her,
    Tshepo,Cl
    air
    ehi s
    youngersister,NyikoandAJar edri
    ving
    togetherandt heyar ealr
    eadyonthei
    rwayt o
    Bushbuckridge...
    ..
    shewant edtoarr
    ivethere
    earlysoshel eftwiththekidswhil
    eAlphalet
    te
    andMasai areusingAphal et
    te’
    scarandGaza
    willdri
    vewithTshi mo...
    .Mpandewill
    dri
    v edown
    l
    aterwi
    thHi
    l
    ls*
    **
    ***Masai hasbeenquietsincet
    heyl
    eft
    Alphalette’splaceandAlphahasnoti
    ced
    that.
    ..
    .theyar enowdrivi
    ngbehindGazatogo
    pickupTshi mo* *
    *
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    ouok
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai
    :yeah
    *
    **shesai
    dlooki
    ngdownatherhands*
    **
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    mami
    Masai
    :mmmmh
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’sbot
    her
    ingy
    ou
    *
    **shesi
    ghedagai
    n**
    *
    Masai
    :doy
    out
    hinki
    sagoodi
    deaf
    ormet
    ogo
    wi
    thyou
    *
    **hef
    rownedt
    henhel
    ookedatherbr
    ief
    ly*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    yesandwhywoul
    dyousayt
    hat
    Masai
    :Idon’
    twannabej
    udgedbaby
    Alpha:
    judgedbywhoandwhywoul
    dtheyj
    udge
    you
    *
    **hewasconf
    used*
    **
    Masai:y
    ourBushbuckri
    dgefamil
    ymember s
    aboutmehavi
    ngdat edyourbr
    otherbef
    oreand
    nowitsyou
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:wil
    lyoutel
    lthem thaty
    ouoncedated
    St
    evens.
    ..
    .iwontandim sureGeeorMpande
    wonttoo
    Masai
    :yourmom
    Al
    pha:
    comeonmawont
    Masai
    :but.
    ...
    shewascoldt owar
    dsme
    Phal
    ett
    e..
    ..
    .sheusedtohugmewhenev erwe
    metandtodayshejustsaid“aowMasaihow
    ar
    eyou”withastrai
    ghtfaceandthatwasit
    ..
    .i
    t
    wassooawkwar
    dbabycausei
    m usedt
    oher
    huggi
    ngmeandsmi
    li
    ng
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Masai
    :maybei
    mjustov
    err
    eact
    ing.
    ..
    .y
    eah
    maybeIam
    ***Alphalet
    tejustcont i
    nuedt odriveandhe
    didn’tsayany t
    hingandMasai wasdisappoi nted
    athi mf ornotsay ingany t
    hingel sesot hey
    drov einsil
    enceunt i
    ltheyr eachedTshi mo’ s
    placeandt heaut omat i
    cgat eopened. ...
    Gaza
    gotoutandsodi dAl phaletteandMasai .They
    closedt hedoorandl ockedt hecarsandt hey
    wal kedinsi
    de...
    .Gazaopenedt hedoorandt hey
    allwalkedinandf oundTshi mowat chingTV
    withherbagspacked. .
    ..
    Shegotupandsheand
    GazaHuggedandheki ssedher
    forehead...
    .She’
    swear ingal ongsl eevet ight
    summerdr essandal lhercur vesanda$$ar e
    shapedni celyinitwi thfluffysleepersand
    Masai i
    mmedi atelyfeltinsecur eespeci ally
    whenherey
    escaughtAl
    phal
    ett
    est
    ari
    ng*
    **
    Gaza:
    yougood
    *
    **Shenoddedt
    henhet
    urnedt
    oAl
    phal
    ett
    eand
    Masai
    ***
    Gaza:
    mamay
    ouknowt
    hebi
    gheadNt
    sako
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Gaza:
    andthi
    sisMasaihisot
    herhal
    f.
    ..
    ..
    theone
    t
    hatownshisshapel
    esshear
    t
    Tshi
    mo:
    hi
    *
    **shewentf
    orabr
    iefhug*
    **
    Masai
    :hi
    Al
    pha:
    don’
    tIgetahug
    Gaza:
    no.
    ..
    youcanshakeherhand
    *
    **MasaiandTshi
    mol aughedwhil
    eGaza
    r
    aisedaneyebr
    owatAl phal
    ett
    eandAl
    pha
    l
    aughedawkwardl
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    your
    eady
    Tshi
    mo: y
    eah.
    ..
    ooohdamnit.
    ..
    ifor
    gottol
    ock
    thest
    orer
    oom af
    tercl
    eani
    ngtheyard
    Gaza:
    okl
    etmegoandl
    ocki
    t
    *
    **hewal
    kedawayandt
    heysatdown*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    ThokozaMkhul
    u
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    elaughed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    mxm y
    ouar
    elat
    eshem
    *
    **shel
    aughedandhesmi
    l
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    don’
    tbl
    amemebl
    amey
    ourbr
    other
    Al
    pha:
    im bl
    ami
    ngy
    ou.
    ..
    ..
    sohowar
    eyou
    Tshi
    mo:
    im goodj
    ustner
    vous
    Al
    pha:
    why
    Tshi
    mo:
    justnj
    e
    Alpha:don’tworryasyourbodyguar
    dI’
    l
    lbe
    theret
    opr otectyou.
    ..
    .wit
    chesofBushwontget
    evenani nchclosert
    oy ou
    ***
    shegiggl
    edandAlphasmil
    edlov
    elyl
    ooki
    ng
    atherandMasaicaughtt
    hat
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    okmrbody
    guar
    d
    ***Masaisattherefeeli
    ngawkwar d..
    ..
    .shefel
    t
    outofplacel i
    kesheshoul dn’
    tbeher e...
    ..
    and
    shesuddenl ygotworri
    edaboutt heway
    Alphalet
    telookedatTshimo. .
    ..i
    twasal ookand
    asmi leonewoul dgiv
    ehi sorhercr ush...
    she
    swallowedhar dandlookeddownatherhands
    ri
    ghtasGazacamebackandt heygotupand
    walkedout...
    ..
    theygotinsidethecar sand
    start
    edtheengi nesaft
    erlockingupandt hey
    droveaway ***
    Al
    pha:
    sowhatdoy
    out
    hinkaboutTshi
    mo
    **
    * sheswal
    lowedhar
    dlooki
    ngout
    sidet
    he
    window***
    Masai
    :not
    hing
    Al
    pha:
    ooh
    ***
    hef
    rownedatheranswerandt
    hemanneri
    t
    cameout
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    arey
    ouok
    Masai
    :mmmmh
    ***
    hejustsighedandletherbe..
    ..
    hethought
    shewasmadbecausehedi dn’tcomment
    fur
    theraboutthati
    ssuewithhismother***
    .
    .
    .

    ***
    Af t
    erwhatfel
    tli
    kef or
    evertheyarri
    vedat
    Bushbuckri
    dgeandt heydroveinsi
    deahuge
    doublestor
    yhousewi thabigy ar
    dandt hey
    parkedthei
    rcarsnexttoMr sReineke’
    scar***
    Alpha:
    thi
    sismyhome. .
    ..
    whereIgrewupf
    rom
    theageof11unt
    ilIwenttoVarsi
    ty
    Masai
    :ok
    ***
    that’
    sallshesaidandAlphal
    ett
    e
    si
    ghed...
    .suddenl
    yshedidn’
    twannabe
    here.
    ..
    shehadabadf eel
    i
    ngandallshewant
    ed
    nowwast ogobackhome* **
    Alpha:
    canweenjoythi
    sweekendl
    ove.
    ..
    ..
    nako
    kombela(i
    m beggi
    ngyou)
    *
    **shebr
    eat
    hedoutandf
    oughtbackher
    t
    ears*
    **
    Masai
    :ok
    Al
    pha:Il
    ovey
    ousomuchMasai
    andIknow
    ev
    eryonei
    sgonnal
    ovey
    ou
    Masai
    :okl
    etsgetout
    *** shesaidopeningherdoorandAlpha
    frownedcauseshedi dn’
    tsayshel
    ov eshi
    m
    too. .
    ..
    hesighedandalsogotoutri
    ghtas
    ev eryonegotoutofthehousetogreet
    them. ..
    .herhear
    tpoundedhardasshesaw
    Alphal
    ette’
    smother.
    ..
    .GazaintroducedTshimo
    toeveryoneandtheyallhuggedhert hanki
    ng
    herforsavi
    ngGaza’sli
    feandMasai stoodthere
    feel
    ingawkwardwhileAlphalettewassmi l
    ing
    l
    ookingatTshimogettingallthelove***
    Gaza:
    andt hi
    sisMasai
    tothosewhohaven’
    t
    mether.
    ..
    .she’
    sAJ’
    smotherandsoont
    obeMr s
    Mabunda
    ***Masaiwantedtocryther
    eandther
    ecause
    Alphafai
    l
    edt oint
    roduceherandGazawasthe
    onewhodi d*
    * *
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e:yeaht
    hisi
    smyoneandonl
    y.
    ..
    ..
    the
    womanthatmademeafat
    her
    ***hesaidsmi l
    inglooki
    ngatherandhecoul d
    seet hesmileonherf acewasfake.
    ..
    .Gaza’s
    sistershuggedherandsheshookGaza’ sf at
    her
    ’
    handr especti
    velyandtheywenttotaketheir
    bagsandwenti nside.
    ..
    .t
    heywereshownt hei
    r
    respectiv
    ebedr oomsandassoonasMasai
    cl
    osedtheen-suitbat
    hroom andlockeditshe
    satonthetoi
    letandcri
    edsilent
    ly.
    ..
    .Al
    phalet
    te
    wentdownstair
    sagainleavi
    ngherinthe
    bedroom t
    heygonnause* *
    *
    Masai
    :“whatt
    imewi
    l
    lyouandMpandear
    ri
    ve?
    ”
    ***
    shesendsHi ll
    samessageasshewi pedher
    fal
    li
    ngt ear
    s..
    .Hi
    ll
    stol
    dheraboutMpande
    i
    nvit
    inghert oGaza’
    spar
    tyandMasai
    convincedhertocomesoshesitswit
    h
    someonesheknowscausesheani ntrover
    t***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    “hej
    ustpi
    ckedmeupnow”
    Masai
    :“ok”
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    “hav
    eyoual
    lar
    ri
    ved”
    Masai
    :“y
    eah”
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    “how’
    sthepl
    ace”
    Masai
    :“beaut
    if
    ulandev
    ery
    onei
    sfr
    iendl
    y”
    Hi
    ll
    s:“t
    hat
    ’sgood..
    .sawar
    aret
    lof
    it
    lha”(don’
    t
    wor
    rywewill
    arri
    vesoon)
    Masai
    :“okdr
    ivesaf
    ely
    ..
    .il
    ovey
    ou”
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    “wewi
    l
    l.
    ..
    il
    ovey
    out
    oo”
    **
    *shesighedandgotupthenshewenttothe
    mirr
    orandshewi pedhert
    earsof
    fandhereyes
    werered.
    ..
    .someoneknockedonthedoor
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    randzoor
    ight
    Masai
    :yeah
    *
    **hetr
    iedt
    oopent
    hedoorandi
    twas
    l
    ocked*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    Masai
    :Ineedsomespacet
    obr
    eat
    heAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    I
    ’l
    lbeout
    ..
    ..
    giv
    emesomet i
    meal
    one
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    owned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    what
    sgoi
    ngon
    ***
    shebreathedoutswal
    l
    owi nghard..
    ..
    .t
    his
    thi
    ngiseati
    ngherupandshef eel
    sl i
    keits
    gonnarui
    nthisweekendforher.
    ..
    .shecanthel
    p
    butfeell
    ikeAlphal
    ett
    ehasf eeli
    ngsforTshi
    mo
    anditbreaksherheartcauseshe’sbeen
    thr
    ought hi
    sbeforeandshei gnoredthesi
    gns
    unti
    lshecaughthernowexwi thhernowex
    bestfri
    endinbed***
    Masai
    :doy
    ouhav
    eacr
    ushonTshi
    mo
    ***
    sheblurt
    editoutli
    kethat
    ..
    ..
    shewasev
    en
    shockedshesaidthatoutl
    oud***
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ***
    heaskedcaughtof
    fguar
    dandshekept
    qui
    et**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    opent
    hisdoor
    Masai
    :l
    etmegat
    hermy
    sel
    fI’
    l
    lbeout
    *
    **shesai
    d**
    *
    Masai
    :j
    ustgi
    vemesomespaceAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    **
    *si
    lencethenshesatdownagainandshe
    wentonli
    netocheckift
    herear
    eubertaxi
    s
    ar
    ound...
    shedidn’
    twannabehere
    anymor e..
    ..
    .thisbadf eelingshewashav ingwas
    gettingmor eandmor eint ense. ..
    .She
    remember edhowsheoncei nVar sitylosther
    boy fri
    endt ohernowexbestf ri
    end. ..
    .Thered
    fl
    agsshe’ sseei ngnowsheoncesawt hem and
    i
    gnor edt hem t hinkingt heywi l
    lnev erhur ther
    l
    iket hatandguesswhatt heydi d...
    shecaught
    them int heactwi thoutacondom i nsi ghtand
    todayt heyar emar riedwi tht hreeki dsand
    karmahasn’ tv isit
    edt hem. ..
    Shegotadmi ttedi n
    thehospi talcauseshesuf feredahear tattack
    thereandt her eandl ucki lytheydi dn’tletherdi e
    i
    nst eadt heycal ledanambul ancef orher ..
    ...
    She
    sighedandgotupf eelingext remel ydownand
    shel ookedather selfont hemi rrorandshe
    sighedagai nandsheunl ockedt hedoorand
    walkedout ..
    ..shef oundAl phal et t
    esi tt
    ingont he
    edgeoft hebedandt heirey esl ocked. .
    ..
    she
    sighedandwentt oherl uggagei gnor i
    nghi s
    stare**
    Al
    pha:
    comeandsi
    tnextt
    ome
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    Masai
    :IneedsomespaceAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ’swi
    tht
    hisAl
    phal
    ett
    ebul
    l
    sh*
    t
    ***
    shedi dn’
    tsayanythi
    ngsheopenedherglass
    caseandt ookoutherglassesandtookof
    fher
    contactl
    ensesandputt hem awayandwoke
    herprescri
    pti
    onglasses***
    Al
    pha:
    Lov
    ewhat
    ’sgoi
    ngon
    *
    **suddenl
    yhim cal
    li
    ngherl
    ovesoundedl
    ikean
    i
    nsulti
    nherear
    s...
    .i
    tmadeherfeel
    somehow
    *
    **
    Masai :t
    hewayyoul ookather.
    ..
    .t
    hewayyou
    forgetaboutmyexistencewhenshe’s
    around..
    ..
    thewayyousmi lel
    ikearet
    ardwhen
    shespeaks...
    .
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedhar
    dast
    ear
    sfi
    l
    ledher
    t
    ear
    s**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    what
    ..
    .wher
    eist
    hiscomi
    ngf
    rom Masai
    Masai:myt herapistsaidf
    ormet oav oi
    d
    anotherheartattackoranotherf
    lareupf r
    om
    Lupusistoav oidbot t
    li
    ngthi
    ngsinside.
    ..
    .t
    o
    avoidstr
    essfulsituati
    ons.
    ..
    .t
    ocrysoIl etoutt
    he
    tensi
    onbrewi nginsidewhenim upset
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Masai:wit
    hhowmj oloi
    stheseday sIshould’
    ve
    j
    uststayedsingleandconcent
    ratedonmy
    busi
    nessandchi ldbutnoIhadtof al
    lforyou
    andnowher ei am agai
    nandthistimearound
    i
    tsmymanandhi sbrot
    her’
    sgir
    lfr
    iend..
    ..
    .cr
    azy
    ri
    ght
    ***shechuckl
    edwit
    hapainedlookedonher
    facelooki
    ngathi
    m andheswallowed
    hard..
    .t
    hatl
    ookonherfacespokevolumes*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    MasaiIl
    ov ey
    oudoyougett
    hat.
    ..
    ..
    .y
    ou
    ownmyhear
    t..
    ..
    iwannamar
    ryyouandmake
    youminef
    orever.
    ..
    ..
    thi
    sheartbeat
    sfory
    ou.
    ..
    .i
    woul
    dneverhurtyouli
    kethat
    *
    **hesai
    dhi
    tt
    inghi
    schest
    ***
    Alpha:Idon’
    tknowwhaty outhinkyousawbutI
    sweart oyoumami .
    ..
    .y
    ou’r
    etheonlyonefor
    me....
    iwouldneverdothatt
    oy ouorGee..
    ..
    im
    sorryyoufeelt
    hiswaybutbabyi m her
    eto
    i
    ntroducey ouasthewomanIwantt ospent
    therestofmylifewit
    h..
    .t
    hewomanIwantt o
    mar r
    y
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Masai:y
    oufail
    edt
    odothatear
    li
    erandy
    our
    br
    otherhadtodoi
    tfory
    ou
    *
    **heswal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Masai:
    thi
    swontwor
    kAl
    phal
    ett
    e..
    ..
    wear
    ejust
    wast
    ingourt
    ime
    Al
    pha:woohwhat
    ..
    ..
    .l
    ookMasaiIdon’
    tknow
    what
    ’sgoi
    ngonwit
    hy ouandwhyyousuddenl
    y
    act
    ingt
    hiswaybutdon’tpl
    ayl
    i
    kethat
    ..
    ..
    thi
    s
    i
    nsecur
    it
    yyouhavegoingonbett
    erst
    opcause
    i
    tsnotf
    unny
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Alpha:y
    ou’
    rebusyconcludingthi
    ngsinyour
    headbecauseofyourinsecuri
    ti
    esandnowy ou
    wannaactout.
    ..
    .i
    fIdidn’
    tloveyouMasai orsee
    afutur
    ewithyoutrustmewhenIsayy ou
    wouldn’
    tbeherenow
    Masai
    :Ishoul
    dn’
    thav
    ecome
    *
    **shewal
    kedt
    othedoor
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    MASAI
    !!
    !
    *
    **shest
    oppedwal
    ki
    ng*
    **
    Alpha:ongani
    nyeli
    wat
    wa...
    ..
    ongal
    avi
    kor
    eni
    penga(don’tpissmeoff
    ..
    ..
    dontmakemego
    crazy)
    **
    *hesai
    dsti
    llsi
    tt
    ingdownwithascarylookon
    hi
    sfaceandsheblinkedf
    astf
    ight
    ingoffher
    t
    ear
    sswal
    l
    owi
    nghar
    d**
    *
    Alpha:stopit.
    ..
    .weareheretocelebrat
    emy
    brothersret
    urnandt oint
    roducey ouandAJto
    myf ami l
    y.
    ..
    .wegonnaenj oyourselv
    esand.
    ..
    we
    will
    v i
    sitt
    hismadnesswhenwegethomeand
    deal wi
    thitthen..
    .hat
    wanana( areweclear
    )
    ***
    shenoddedandshebreat
    hedoutt
    henshe
    openedt
    hedoorandwalkedout
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    damni
    t!
    !!
    **
    *hesai
    dfrust
    rat
    edwi
    thhi
    msel
    fandpi
    ssed
    of
    fbyher*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER38
    .
    .
    .
    ***Lateront heyhadsupperwi t
    hMasai tryi
    ng
    byallmeanst olookj oll
    y .
    ..
    .sheavoided
    Alphalett
    eandhi sstaresandsheal soignor ed
    thefactthatMr sReinekei scoldtowardsher ,
    thatshe’snott hemot herinlawshewaswhen
    shedat edSt evens..
    ..
    Ny ikoandAJar egl uedt o
    eachot her.
    ..whereev erNy ikoisAJi stheret oo
    andhe’ sjustenjoyinghav i
    ngabi g
    brother.
    ..
    .Gazacanpi ckupt hetensionbet ween
    AlphaandMasai buthedeci dednott obuthi s
    nosei ntheirbusiness...
    .Tshimoi streatedlike
    aneggbythefamil
    ymoreespecial
    lyMrs
    Rei
    nekewhichmakesMasaifeelli
    keshemade
    amistakebyagr
    eei
    ngtocome* *
    *
    .
    .
    .
    *** Alphal
    et tewentt ot hesecondst or
    ybal cony
    forsomel atefreshairandt othinkaboutwhat
    transpi r
    edear l
    i
    eronwi thMasai ..
    ...
    Hewonder ed
    i
    fGazaal sosawwhatMasai saworMasai is
    j
    ustbei ngi nsecurenje...
    .Hedi dn’twanttrouble
    soheneedst ogethol dofhi mselfandnot
    stressMasai causet hisweekendi simpor tant
    tohi m, hedeci dedhe’ sgonnaaskMasai to
    mar r
    yhi m andhe’ spl anningt odoi ti
    nfrontof
    ev eryone....
    helov esherandhe’ salsoinl ov e
    wi thherandpl usheneedst odor i
    ghtbyher
    andhi sson. .
    ..
    .Any wayhef oundTshi mologo
    ther ealonel ookingatt hev iewandhecur sed
    sil
    entl
    ythenshetur
    nedwhensheheard
    footst
    eps..
    .hewant
    edtoturnar
    oundandwal
    k
    awaybutshehasalreadyseenhi
    m***
    Al
    pha:
    aowshor
    tbase
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    stopi
    tman
    ***
    theybot
    hlaughedandhewentandst
    ood
    nexttoher
    ***
    Alpha:
    thi
    sspothasani
    cevi
    ew..
    ..
    wheneverim
    homeIalwaysfi
    ndmysel
    fher
    eintheaft
    ernoon
    Tshimo:mmmmhi t
    sni
    cebutt
    hemosqui
    tos
    aren’
    tfr
    iendl
    yshem
    *
    **t
    heybot
    hlaughed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    yeah
    *
    **hel
    ookedatherbr
    ief
    ly*
    **
    Al
    pha:howhasitbeenli
    ketof
    inal
    l
    yaccepty
    our
    gi
    ftandtoal
    souseittohel
    ppeopl
    e
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:i
    t’
    saj
    our
    neyshem.
    ..
    ..
    andi
    twasn’
    ta
    ni
    ceone
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmhi
    t’
    snev
    eri
    s
    *
    **shenoddedagr
    eei
    ngwi
    thhi
    m**
    *
    Tshimo: mmmmh. ...irememberf eeli
    nglikeI
    can’tdot hi s,thisisnotmebutwheni tstimei ts
    ti
    meshem. ..
    ..
    .iremembert hinkingabouthowI
    grewupespeci all
    ywhenIwasst il
    linschool
    andIusedt ohav efaint i
    ngepi sodesdur i
    ng
    cl
    ass. ..
    Iwoul dalway sdream wear ingar edski r
    t,
    whiteshi rtandsphekasesey ellowwi thawhi t
    e
    crossatt hebackanday ell
    owheadwr ap. ..
    ..
    I
    al
    sosuf feredf rom shor t
    nessofbr eat
    handt he
    doct orswoul dsayi tspani cat tacksandt hey
    neverst opped. .
    ..
    .Ihadpr oblemswi thmyl egs
    andi tgotwor seandwor seast i
    mewent
    by..
    ...headaches, blurredv i
    sionsandsoonand
    sof orth..
    .thewassomuchgoi ngonwi thme
    thatIev
    ent houghty
    ouknowwhatI ’vehad
    enoughGodshoul djusttakeme.
    ..
    ..
    Iwouldal
    so
    haveseizur
    esconstantlyandwhenmymom
    tookmet othehospitalt
    hinki
    ngmaybeIhave
    epil
    epsythetestswouldcomeoutnegativ
    e
    *
    **shesi
    ghedt
    hinki
    ngaboutt
    heol
    dday
    s**
    *
    Tshi
    mo: i
    twasj usthorri
    blei
    mt el
    li
    ngy ou.
    ..
    .I’
    ve
    beentodif
    ferentchurchestoseekhel psince
    doctor
    sandt hei
    rmedi ci
    nescouldn’thelpme,
    I
    ’veseendif
    ferentspecial
    ist
    sandt hingsgot
    worseandwor seinsteadofgetti
    ngbet ter
    Al
    pha:
    younev
    erv
    isi
    tedat
    radi
    ti
    onal
    heal
    er
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Tshimo:
    mamadi dn’
    tbel
    ievei
    n
    sangomas.
    ..
    .shewastot
    all
    yagai
    nsti
    tev
    en
    whenpeopl
    esheknewadv i
    sedherto
    Al
    pha:
    why
    Tshi
    mo:
    wel
    lbackshej
    ustsai
    dit
    sbecauseshe
    grewupi naChr i
    sti
    anhomeandpr ayerwasthe
    onlyway .
    ..
    .sheal
    way ssai
    dDingakadievi
    land
    stuffbutIfoundoutthetr
    uthaft
    erherdeath
    thatsheloathedsangomasbecauseapparentl
    y
    myf atheri
    soneandhehur ther
    Al
    pha:
    damn
    Tshimo: y
    eah..
    ..apparent
    lyshedefi
    edher
    parentsbydatingasangomaev enthoughshe
    camef rom astrictChri
    sti
    anhomeandsheev en
    gotpregnantforhi m,sheevenmov edoutof
    herparents’
    houset ogostaywiththemanand
    whenshewas7mont hspregnantoutoft
    he
    bluethemanbr okeupwi t
    hher
    Al
    pha:
    damn
    Tshimo:shewaspr egnantwithmyl at
    ebrother
    thatt
    imesoshewentbackhomehear tbroken
    andtheyacceptedherbackt henmybr owas
    born.
    ..
    ..
    fastfor
    ward5y earslatert
    heybumped
    i
    ntoeachot herandIdon’tknowomo
    forafor
    edi
    tseareng(howheconv incedher
    )..
    ...
    shegavehi
    m anotherchanceandshefell
    pregnantf
    orhim AGAI
    Nandguesswhat .
    ..
    .
    Al
    pha:
    hedi
    tchedheragai
    n
    Tshimo:yepandmonthslaterIwasbornand
    sheneverheardf
    rom hi
    m againunti
    lshe
    passedonwhenIwasaf irstyearst
    udenti
    n
    Varsi
    ty
    Al
    pha:
    wow.
    ..
    sodoy
    ouat
    leastknowhi
    sname
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:al
    lIknowishisnameisKhazamol
    a
    Khozaandhe’sf
    rom Hazyv
    iew
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    *
    **Masai
    int
    heki
    tchenhel
    pingt
    hehousehel
    p
    washt hedi shesev ent hought heytoldhert o
    relax..
    ..
    She’ schat ti
    ngwi tht hehousehel p
    askingheraboutt hepl ace...Herphoner eceives
    amessageandi tsHills...
    .shet ell
    i
    nghert hat
    theyar est il
    lf arandi tsal readyl atesot hey ’
    ll
    j
    ustdr i
    vest rai ghttoabnbMpandebookedand
    she’llseehert omor rowbutshe’ llcallherwhen
    theyar rive..
    ..shesi ghedandputherphoneaway
    andshecont inuedhel pi ngt hehousehel punt il
    theyar edone. ..
    thensheswi tchestheket t
    leon
    andgoesupst ai
    rstot hei rbedr oom t ogoget
    herChamomi l
    et eabagt omakeher selfsome
    soi thelpshersl eepbet tertonightnotmi nding
    whoi sint hel ounge. ..
    .shecanal r
    eadyf eel a
    sli
    ghtheadachesoshewant st ohav eanear ly
    nightsi nceHi ll
    ssai dshe’ l
    lseehert omor row
    causei tsal readyl ateandt hey ’
    llj
    ustdr i
    ve
    straighttot heBNBMpandebooked. .
    ..
    Asshe’ s
    goingbackdownst airsandsheseesabal cony
    andshet ell
    sher selfthatshe’ ll
    hav ehert ea
    theresoshecant hinkcl ear l
    yabouther
    sit
    uati
    onalone.
    ..
    .Shetell
    shersel
    fthat
    tomorrowshe’l
    lobser
    v ethi
    ngsthenshe’
    l
    lmake
    herdecisi
    onaft
    erthat
    * **
    Masai:youhaveachi
    l
    dt ol
    ivefor
    ..
    ..
    nomani
    s
    nolongerwort
    hyoudyingorendi
    ngupin
    hospi
    talMasai
    ***
    shesai dtohersel fandshebr eat
    hedoutand
    continuedt ogot otheki tchen.
    ..
    .shesawt hat
    Gaza, TshimoandAl phalet
    tearenoti nthe
    l
    oungewi t
    ht heparent sandshet hi
    nksthat
    may beTshi mowentt othebedr oom she’s
    usi
    ngandt hebrother saremay beout si
    deor
    somet hingsoshe' llgoupst ai
    rst othatbalcony
    j
    ustt obr eatheandt hink***
    .
    .
    .
    ATTHEBALCONY

    Tshi
    mo: ev
    enmybrotherdi
    dn’tr
    emember
    hi
    m...
    .mamaneverspokeofhim,sheloat
    hed
    hi
    m...
    iremembermybotheroncegotabeati
    ng
    whenheaskedmamawho’ sourfather
    Alpha:whatabouty
    ourf
    ami
    l
    ymember
    s..
    ..
    dont
    theyknowhim
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo:theyal
    sojustknowhisname. .
    ..
    .he
    wasn’tal
    l
    owedt oentermygrandpar entsyard
    ortoevenpaydamagesf ormybr othersot hey
    metoutthereunti
    lshefell
    pregnantwi t
    hme
    andhebrokeupwi thheranddisappear ed
    Al
    pha:
    that
    ’shect
    ic
    Tshimo:y
    eahbuteventhoughshewasnaï v
    e,
    thetr
    uthi
    sshegaveust hebestupbr
    ingi
    ngany
    singl
    emothercoul
    dgiv
    et oherki
    ds..
    ..
    wenev er
    l
    ackedany t
    hing..
    ..
    hersi
    bli
    ngst
    reat
    edherand
    usbadbecauseofmydeadbeatf athermor e
    overbecausehewasasangomaandt heydidn’
    t
    associ
    atewi t
    hsuchpeoplesoweaut omat i
    call
    y
    becamehat edtoobecausewehavehi sblood
    runni
    ngthroughourv ei
    ns
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    any
    waybackt
    omycal
    l
    ing.
    ..
    ..
    *
    **shegi
    ggl
    ed*
    **
    Tshimo: mymot her’
    scousinwhoi snow
    l
    at e.
    ..
    .mayhersoul r
    estinpeace...
    ..i
    stheone
    thattookmet oat r
    aditi
    onalhealerwhenshe
    sawmesuf f
    eri
    ngandt hi
    sisaftermymot her
    hadal r
    eadypassedonandt heytoldmeIhav e
    togetinit
    iated..
    ..
    iwasshat t
    eredNt sako....
    i
    didn’
    twantt o..
    ..
    i wasindenialandIf eltl
    ikeI
    wouldbebet r
    ayingmymot herifIdid..
    ...
    itwas
    onet hi
    ngt hatIwentt ogoandconsul ttoa
    sangomabutnowi mt oldIhavet ogoand
    t
    hwasa
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo: soIignor edwhatIf oundoutandone
    dayIwasokandt henextdayIwokeupandI
    couldn’twalk..
    ..
    mybr othertookmet ot he
    hospitalandIstay edthereforthreeweekswi t
    h
    test
    sbei ngdoneonmeandst il
    ltheycouldn’
    t
    tel
    lmewhyIwasf eeli
    ngpainonmyl egsbutI
    couldn’twalk..
    ..
    icouldn’tcontr
    olthem...
    .t
    hey
    werepai nfulbutwhent heywoul dpokemewi t
    h
    needlesIwoul dn’tfeelt
    heneedl epokingme...
    it
    wasj ustbizarr
    eandconf usi
    ngt odoctors
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Tshimo: andkamoIwashav ingsomewei r
    d
    dreams....
    neelehorrorf
    ela(itwasj ust
    horror)
    ..
    ..
    myauntcameandv isi
    tedmeoneday
    atthehospi t
    alandshewasl i
    key ouneedto
    makeadeci si
    on..
    ..
    .i
    tsei
    theryouacceptt oli
    ve
    l
    iket hi
    sfortherestofyourli
    feandpr obablydi
    e
    ory oudowhaty ourancest orswanty outo
    do...
    .shewasl i
    kei tseit
    hery ouli
    velikethisfor
    ther estofy ourli
    feory ougoandt hwasaf ora
    coupl eofmont hsandcomebackhome. ..
    ...
    .
    aft
    eral otofcry i
    ngandf ightingwithmyi nner
    selfIknewIdi dn’twannal iveli
    kethatsoImade
    adeci sion,Idecidedt hatthisisit
    ..
    ..
    .i
    m gonna
    dot hissoIwentandgoti ni
    tiat
    edandast i
    me
    wentbyonebyoneal lt
    hei l
    lnessesIhad, bei
    ng
    paralyzedandsof ort
    hwentaway .
    ..
    igothealed
    somehow
    Al
    pha:
    wow.
    ..
    whataj
    our
    ney
    *
    **shegi
    ggl
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    thi
    sli
    fei
    snotmakesur
    eimt
    ell
    i
    ngy
    ou
    *
    **t
    heybot
    hlaughed*
    **
    Tshimo:butimthankfult
    omyl ateauntf
    or
    nevergiv
    inguponmeandf ort
    aki
    ngmet othat
    sangoma...
    .il
    earnedalotwhereIgot
    i
    niti
    ated.
    ..
    .weprayedthere.
    ..
    .wewenttochur
    ch
    onSunday s...
    ..wereadt hebibl
    eandweal sodi
    d
    phahl atoourancest ors...
    iwast aughtt hat
    there’sonlyoneGodandt hatGodcr eatedour
    ancest or
    st ooandwepr ayandwor shi pGod
    andweal soacknowl edgesourancest orswho
    areourguar dianAngels. .
    ..
    andgrowingupI
    didn’tseeitlikethat,Ithoughtancest orsare
    demons
    Al
    pha:
    mmmh
    Tshimo: mmmmhIr ememberwhenIwas
    gett
    ingi nit
    iat
    edatmygobel a’
    spl aceIusedt o
    askmy self
    ...
    okIusedt othi
    nkgor e
    Badimo(ancest ors)areev i
    lspiri
    tsanddemons
    causewhensomeonewasi nat ransmodet hey
    l
    ookedpossessedandt heirvoiceswoul d
    changeal ongwi tht hei
    raurasjustl i
    kepeopl e
    weusedt oseei nchur chwhent heywer ebeing
    exorcisedbutIaskedmy self.
    ..
    .i
    fsot henwhy
    am Iusi ngtheirsur nameandt hewor stpartis
    i
    m ev ennamedaf teroneofmyancest ors
    ..
    ..
    andmamahaspassedonsodoest
    hatmean
    she’
    sademont
    oo..
    ..
    soyah
    *
    **sheshr
    uggedhershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Alpha:spir
    it
    uali
    tyi
    sat opi
    cthatneedsmatur
    ed
    mindsespeciall
    yifyou’
    rehavingadebat
    eabout
    i
    twi t
    hsomeonewhodoesn’ tbeli
    evei
    n
    ancestors.
    ..
    .i
    tsatouchysubjectt
    oother
    s
    Tshi
    mo:
    true.
    ..
    sowenahowwasy
    ourj
    our
    ney
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha: wel
    lIgr ewupbel i
    evinginancest
    orsand
    Afri
    canspi ri
    tuali
    tyandIknewonedayIwi llgo
    andt hwasabutwhatIwasn’ tawareofwast hat
    Ididn’thaveachoi ceofwher eIwasgonnago
    andgeti nit
    iated.
    ...
    ..
    .whatImeanaboutt hatis
    myGobel awasn’ tondryland...
    ..
    Tshi
    mo:
    what
    *
    **sheaskedwi
    thherey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    mmmmh.
    ..
    ..
    onedayi
    washomesl
    eepi
    ng
    andt henextdayIwokeupi nast rangeplace
    withst r
    angepeopl e,Ievent houghtIwasdead,
    theat mospher ewasdi fferent..
    ..thecl ot
    hes
    theywer ewear ingwer edifferentj ustevery
    thing
    wasdi f
    fer
    entsoIt houghtIdi edi nmysl eepand
    i
    m wi thmyancest orsnow. ..
    .iremembercr ying
    sopai nful
    lycauseIdi dn’tev engetachancet o
    saygoodby etomyf ami lymor eespeci al
    lymy
    mot her,uncleandbr others..
    ..andwhenIwas
    tol
    dt hatIwasn’ tdeadandt hatim underwat er
    causei twast imef ormet ogeti niti
    atedI
    rememberf ainti
    ngt hereandt her eandt herest
    i
    shi storyIcantt al
    kabout
    Tshi
    mo:
    yho.
    ..
    .Modi
    mowakgot
    so
    *
    **henodded*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohmyGod.
    ..
    .oser
    iousNt
    sako
    *
    **hechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Alpha:
    deadser
    ious.
    ..
    ..
    .y
    ouseem f
    asci
    nat
    edby
    that
    ***
    heaskedsmi l
    ingatherwi
    thacharmi
    ng
    smile.
    ..
    .hel
    ov edhowcuteshelookswhenshe
    hasasur pr
    isedlookonherface*
    **
    Tshi
    mo: dudeIwantedtomeetasangomat
    hat
    wasini
    ti
    atedunderwater
    Al
    pha:
    why
    Tshimo:Idon’
    tknowmay
    bebecauset
    heyar
    ea
    special
    kindofbei
    ngs
    *
    **hesmiledlooki
    ngather
    ..
    ..
    shelooked
    i
    nnocentandcutewit
    hthatsmil
    eonherf ace
    ‘
    hethought’
    ***
    Tshimo:soli
    keareyoual
    lowedtotal
    kabout
    yourexper
    iencewhi
    l
    ey ouweredownther
    e
    *
    **heshookhi
    sheadno*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    ahhhwhynot
    Alpha:i
    tspr
    otocol
    ..
    .j
    ustl
    i
    kether
    earesome
    thi
    ngsyoucanttal
    kaboutofwherey
    ougot
    i
    niti
    ated
    Tshi
    mo:yeahbutei
    shitsnotf
    air
    ..
    .icantev
    en
    askyoui
    fyouwereini
    ti
    atedbyasnakeora
    mermaid
    *
    **hel
    aughed*
    **
    Alpha:l
    etschangethesubj
    ectcauseIf
    eelli
    ke
    thatcut
    ef aceofy
    ourswill
    makemet el
    lital
    l
    *
    **t
    heybot
    hlaughed*
    **
    Tshimo:it
    snicetohavesomeonetotal
    kto
    aboutspir
    it
    uali
    tywit
    houtbei
    ngjudgedor
    l
    ookeddownoncausey oubeli
    eveandal
    so
    acknowledgeyourAncest
    ors
    Al
    pha:
    yeah
    ***
    hesighedandfacedherwi
    thasl
    ightf
    rown
    onhisface.
    ..
    .i
    tmadehimlookmore
    handsome***
    Alpha:
    arey
    ouhappywi
    thGee.
    ..
    .doeshet
    reat
    yougood
    *
    **shesmi
    l
    edshy
    lyandAl
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owed
    har
    d**
    *
    Tshimo:yeahhe’sgoodandtreatsme
    well
    ..
    ..
    thethi
    ngisIdon’tknowwhatweare
    causeasembar rassi
    ngatiti
    sformeto
    say.
    ..
    .he’
    smar r
    iedsoim basical
    l
    yinl
    ovewit
    ha
    marri
    edman
    *
    **hekeptqui
    etf
    orabi
    t**
    *
    Al
    pha:y
    eahbutdon’twor
    ryhewi
    ll
    soonget
    di
    vor
    ced..
    ..
    it
    sreal
    l
    yoverbet
    weenthem
    Tshimo: butst
    illIfeel
    li
    keasidechick.
    ..
    evenow
    Ifeell
    ikeIshouldn’tbeher
    e..
    ..
    ifeell
    ikei
    m
    beingjudgedsomehowcausehe’ stouchy
    touchyandi m suresomehaveal r
    eadynoticed
    gorebabaj ana(t hist
    woaref*cki
    ng)
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    efr
    owned*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    wai
    tyout
    wohav
    eal
    readysl
    eptt
    oget
    her
    *
    **sheclear
    edherthroatandputherhandson
    t
    hebalconyrai
    l
    sfacingforwar
    d* *
    *
    Tshi
    mo:t
    hisv
    iewisni
    ce.
    ..
    .icanpi
    ctur
    emysel
    f
    havi
    ngmymorni
    ngcoff
    eeher eev
    erymor
    ning
    Al
    pha:
    soy
    ougonnai
    gnor
    emyquest
    ion
    Tshi
    mo:
    itsani
    nappr
    opr
    iat
    eoneAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    *
    **het
    urnedhert
    ofacehi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    why
    *
    **sher
    aisedaney
    ebr
    ow*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    why
    Tshi
    mo:
    becausei
    tsnoty
    ourbusi
    ness
    ***
    hej ustlookedinhereyesandhecouldfeel
    thi
    selectri
    fyingi
    ntimat
    epul lhehast
    owardsher
    i
    nf acttheybothcouldfeelthechemi
    str
    y
    betweent hem...
    sheswallowedhardl
    ooking
    downbutshedi dn’
    tmov eawayf r
    om hi
    m* *
    *
    Alpha:
    doy ouknowhowmuchIcar
    eabouty
    ou
    Tshimologo
    *
    **shef
    rownedl
    ooki
    ngupathi
    m**
    *
    Al
    pha:Idon’tknowwhybutIf eel l
    i
    keIshoul
    d
    pr
    otectyouandIhat ethefactt hatGeeisst
    il
    l
    marri
    edandy ouhav ealr
    eadyf all
    enfor
    hi
    m...
    .whatifhedecidestofixhi smarri
    age
    wherewil
    lthatleav
    ey ouhuh
    ***sheswal lowedhar dashermindwentt oher
    nowdeadexmar r
    iedboyf
    ri
    end.
    ..
    .eventhough
    shehasf al
    lenf orGazaknowinghe’s
    mar ri
    ed...
    .i
    t’
    ssi milart
    owhathappenedwi t
    hher
    exaf t
    ershef oundouthe’samar r
    iedman...
    .she
    sti
    llstayedaf tershefoundoutanditendedin
    tears.
    ...
    .shesi ghedthenchuckl
    ed***
    Tshi
    mo:
    Ial
    way
    sfal
    lformar
    ri
    edmen
    *
    **Tear
    sfi
    l
    ledherey
    es*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    im st
    upi
    dli
    ket
    hat
    Alpha:heyhey.
    ..
    noyounot.
    ...
    loveisabeauti
    ful
    thi
    ngTshimoandnowy ouhav efal
    lenf
    ora
    goodguyt heprobl
    em i
    she’
    sst il
    lmarri
    ed.
    ...
    all
    i
    mt ryi
    ngtosayi st
    hemant hatyouseeaf utur
    e
    wit
    hshoul
    dbey our
    sallofhi
    m notbit
    sandbit
    s
    ofhi
    m,all
    ofhim..
    ..
    heneedstoknowf orhi
    mto
    ownyourhear
    theneedstobey our
    sfull
    y
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandhecuppedherf
    aceast
    ear
    s
    r
    andownhercheeks*
    **
    Alpha:somemar r
    iedwomanpr aydangerous
    prayersTshi moandsomeancest or
    sprotect
    thei
    rchi l
    drenandt heirchi
    ldren’s
    mar ri
    ages...
    .don’
    tgety ourselfcaughtupin
    thosekindofbat tl
    escauset het r
    uthisyouand
    Geear eint hewrongher e..
    ..
    y esMar i
    namessed
    upbi gtimebuty ou’r
    eal somessi ngupbi gti
    me
    causeatt heendoft hedayGeei ssti
    ll
    mar ri
    ed..
    ..
    .andr ememberongwanaBadi mo
    soy ou’r
    ewayt ooprecioust oassociate
    yourselfwithsuchscandal s
    *
    **hecont
    inuedt
    owi
    pehert
    ear
    sof
    fwi
    thhi
    s
    t
    humbs***
    Al
    pha:
    Icar
    eabouty
    oual
    otTshi
    mo.
    ..
    .may
    bei
    ts
    becausewebot hhav egift
    ssoourconnection
    i
    sonadi ff
    erentlev
    el ,aspi
    rit
    ual
    levelsobefor
    e
    yout akeanotherstepsitGeedownandgi ve
    him anulti
    mat um..
    ..andyouneedtoget
    cleansedforthesexual actyouconducted
    ***
    sheswal lowedhardandt hei
    reyes
    l
    ocked..
    ..
    theybot hcouldfeel t
    hepull
    ..
    ..
    they
    bothwantedt ostopbutt heyfoundthemselves
    waycloserthanbef or
    eandt hei
    rli
    psinches
    fr
    om touching..
    ..
    theybreathedheav i
    l
    yast he
    sexualt
    ensionintensi
    fied***
    Tshi
    mo:
    Alphaweshoul
    dn’
    t.
    ..
    .
    ***Al
    phal
    ettesmasheshi slipsintohersand
    Tshimofi
    ndsher sel
    fkissinghim backandt hey
    heardsomethingli
    keagl assoracupf al
    ltothe
    fl
    oorandtheyquicklymov edawayf rom each
    otherl
    ooki
    ngatt hedir
    ect i
    ont hesoundcame
    fr
    om anditwasMasai standingthereshaki
    ng
    l
    ookingatthem withherey espoppedout ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    oohmyGod
    ***shesaidlooki
    ngscaredandsheputbot hher
    handsonhermout hmov i
    ngf ur
    therawayfrom
    Alphalett
    e..
    ..
    asforAl
    phalett
    eheputhi shands
    togetherlooki
    ngatMasai wit
    hascar edlooked
    onhi sface***
    Al
    pha:
    baby
    ..
    ..
    mami
    ..
    .
    *
    **shej
    ustl
    ookedatt
    hem*
    **
    Al
    pha:i
    ts.
    ..
    it
    snotwhaty
    out
    hinkIswear
    ..
    ..
    let
    meexpl
    ain
    ***
    Tshimonoddedshaki
    ng..
    ..
    asf orMasaishe
    tur
    nedandwalkedawayandAl phalet
    ter
    ushed
    aft
    erherl
    eavi
    ngTshimoalone***
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER39
    .
    .
    .

    ***
    Masai rushedupstair
    swi t
    hAl phal
    ettebehind
    her,shegotinsi
    detheirbedroom andasshe
    wasaboutt oclosethedoorAl phalet
    teblocked
    i
    t..
    .shetr
    iedtocloseitforcef
    ull
    ybutAl phal
    ette
    bl
    ockedit***
    Al
    pha:
    Mami
    pleasel
    etmeexpl
    ain
    ***
    shel ett
    hedoorgoandr ushedtot
    he
    bathroom butAl
    phal
    ett
    egrabbedherfrom
    behindandheheldherfrom behi
    nd**
    *
    Masai
    :l
    etgoofme!
    !
    **
    *shesaidtr
    yingt
    owi ggleoutofhi
    shol
    d
    cr
    yingbuthedidn’
    tlethergo**
    *
    Al
    pha:i
    m beggi
    ngy
    oul
    etmeexpl
    ain.
    ..
    it
    snot
    whaty
    outhink
    Masai
    :l
    etgoofmeAl
    phal
    ett
    e!!
    !
    *
    **shesai
    dcr
    ying*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    letmeexpl
    ainmami
    ..
    .pl
    ease
    Masai
    :Idon’
    twantt
    ohearany
    thi
    ngcomi
    ngout
    ofy
    ourlyi
    ngmouth
    *
    **shesai
    dasshecr
    ied*
    **
    Masai:y
    oupromi
    sedt
    haty
    ouwon’
    thur
    t
    me..
    ..
    youpr
    omised
    *
    **shesai
    dasherhear
    tbr
    okesomemor
    e**
    *
    Masai
    :yousai
    dyouwon’
    thur
    tmeAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    Al
    pha:
    im sor
    ryMami
    ..
    ..
    im sor
    ry
    Masai
    :yousai
    dyouwon’
    thur
    tmeAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    ***shesaidasherkneesgav euponherand
    Alphalet
    teheldheri
    nplace..
    ..
    hepi ckedherup
    bri
    dalstyl
    eandhesatdownont heedgeoft he
    bedandputheronhi slapandshej ustputher
    headonhi schestandshewept .
    ..Alphal
    ettej
    ust
    heldhertightwit
    hhisheartbeat
    ingf ast
    ..
    ..
    He’s
    scared,hefeelsasi
    fhisli
    feisaboutt ocomet o
    anend* **
    .
    .
    .
    ***Tshimoislyi
    nginbedcrying,
    she’
    str
    yingto
    understandwhathappenedcausetheywere
    tal
    kingandt henextt
    hingshe’sl
    ocki
    ngli
    pswi t
    h
    Alphalett
    e..
    ..
    She’
    sscaredthatMasaiwi
    l
    ltell
    Gazaandhi sfamil
    yandtheywill
    hat e
    her.
    ...
    .Sheknowsshehasf all
    enforGazaso
    she’stryi
    ngt ounderst
    andwhysheki ssed
    Alphalett
    eback...
    whydidn’
    tshest ophim“she
    thought”.
    ..
    .Shewipedhertearsoffandshegot
    outofbedandsheknel tonthefl
    oorandshe
    prayed***

    .
    .
    .

    BackinAl
    phaandMasai ’sbedroom.
    ...
    Masai
    movedherheadfrom hischestandshewiped
    hert
    earsof
    f,shetri
    edtomov ef r
    om hi
    slapbut
    hehel
    dherinplace***
    Masai
    :l
    etgo
    *
    **hedi
    dn’
    t*
    **
    Masai
    :Isai
    dletgoAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    *
    **heswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Alpha:
    Mami
    pleasel
    etmeexpl
    ain.
    ..
    im beggi
    ng
    you
    Masai:
    wil
    lyouexpl
    aini
    ngundowhaty
    ouand
    Tshi
    modid
    *
    **hekeptqui
    et*
    **
    Masai
    :whet
    heritwasamist
    akeorboloii
    twont
    makemeunseewhatIsaw..
    .i
    twontchange
    any
    thi
    ngnowletmego
    ***heswal l
    owedhardfeeli
    ngdef eated..
    ..
    he
    slowlyletgoofherandshegotup. .
    ..Herlegs
    becameweakandshebal ancedherselfwi t
    hthe
    bed,Alphalett
    estoodupandt riedtohelpher
    butshegav ehim adeathst ar
    eandhe
    retr
    eated..
    ..
    Shemov edtotheot hersideoft he
    bedandshegotont opofi tandshel aid
    down. .
    ..
    sheclosedhereyesandt earsgushed
    out***
    Al
    pha:
    im sor
    rymami...
    .iknowImessedupand
    It
    akef
    ull
    responsi
    bil
    i
    tyformyacti
    ons
    Masai:wanr asetsaAlphalett
    e(y ou’r
    emaki ng
    noiseAlphalett
    e)..
    ...
    idon’twannalistentoy our
    l
    ies..
    ..
    .y
    out woki ssedandt here’
    snot hingthat’s
    gonnachanget hat..
    .I
    ’
    llneverfor
    givey ouso
    don’tevenwast ey ourbreathbyexplainingy our
    sh*t
    ***
    hesighedandhesatbackdownlooki
    ng
    downwi t
    hhi sel
    bowsonhist
    highsandhi
    s
    handsont opofhi
    shead*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ONTHEWAY

    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ihav
    eabadf
    eel
    i
    ngwai
    tsi
    *
    **Mpandel
    ookedatherbr
    ief
    lyandhe
    concent
    rat
    edont
    her
    oad*
    **
    Mpande: t
    handaza..
    .khul
    umanokhokhobakho
    ubatshel
    eukuthibavulei
    ndl
    elanokut
    hi i
    phephe
    (pray.
    ..
    tal
    ktoyourAncestor
    sandt el
    lthem to
    makesur etheroadissafef
    orus)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wenawhydon’
    tyout
    alkt
    oyour
    s
    Mpande:
    who’
    shav
    ingabadf
    eel
    i
    ngbet
    ween
    meandyou
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mxm wabor
    a
    **
    *heputhi
    shandonhert
    highandsqueezedi
    t
    abit
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wankgobat
    sa(y
    ou’
    rehur
    ti
    ngme)
    Mpande:ngizokukgobat
    saifyousayngiyabor
    a
    fut
    hi(I
    ’
    llkeephurti
    ngyouifyousayim bori
    ng
    agai
    n)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    remindmeagai
    nwhyIagr
    eedt
    ocome
    wi
    thyou
    *
    **hegav
    eherhi
    spant
    ydr
    opsi
    desmi
    l
    e
    r
    eveal
    i
    nghi
    sgol
    dtoot
    h**
    *
    Mpande:causeuyangi
    funa(youwantme)but
    you’
    rej
    ustt
    oostubborntoacceptt
    hat
    *
    **shel
    aughed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    me.
    ..
    .wanty
    ou.
    ..
    huuushame
    Mpande:
    yesuwantmet
    hesamewayIwant
    you
    ***
    shekeptqui
    etandlookedoutoft
    hewi
    ndow
    andMpandelaughed*
    **
    Mpande:
    catcaughty
    ourt
    onguemamas
    *
    **shei
    gnor
    edhi
    m andhechuckl
    ed*
    **
    Mpande:Iswearthi
    sweekendy ou’
    l
    lgett
    he
    surpr
    iseofyourl
    if
    e..
    ..
    ial
    waysgetwhatIgo
    aft
    erNtabeniandyou’
    renoexcepti
    on
    Hi
    ll
    s:wel
    lsor
    ryt
    obustyourbubblebuti
    m not
    av
    ail
    abl
    eandrememberim notyourt
    ype
    *
    **hel
    ookedatherbr
    ief
    ly*
    **
    Mpande:all
    thosewomenIoncedat edwer enot
    mytypeandasf orbeingunavai
    labl
    e..
    .well
    mamasI ’
    l
    lmakey ouav ai
    l
    able.
    ..
    li
    keIsaidI
    al
    waysgoaf terwhatIwantandgetit.
    ..
    .you’
    re
    noexcept
    ion
    **
    * shej
    ustsighedandl ookedoutsi
    dethe
    windowandMpandei ncreasedthevol
    umeof
    t
    her adi
    oandhewhi st
    ledmov i
    nghisheadto
    t
    hemusi cplaying*
    **
    Mpande:
    alway
    smamas.
    ..
    alway
    s
    **
    * shel
    ookedathi
    m andhechuckl
    edand
    winkedather
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mxm
    *
    **hechuckl
    edandcont
    inuedt
    owhi
    stl
    e**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    MASAI(NARRATED)
    *
    **shewokeuptohandst
    ouchi
    ngherandshe
    f
    oundAlphal
    ett
    etaki
    ngof
    fherdr
    ess*
    **
    Masai
    :don’
    ttouchme!
    !!
    *
    **hest
    opped*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Ijustwant
    edt
    oputony
    ourpj
    s
    Masai
    :don’
    ttouchme
    **
    *hesi
    ghedandherai
    sedhi
    shandsmov
    ing
    awayfr
    om t
    hebed**
    *
    Masai:
    don’
    tev
    ert
    ouchmewangkut
    lwa(y
    ou
    hearme)
    **
    *heswal
    l
    owedhar
    d..
    ..
    .hi
    shear
    tbroke.
    ..
    .he
    di
    dn’
    tli
    ket
    hel
    ookshehasonherface**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    im sor
    rymami
    ***sheignoredhim andshesatontheedgeof
    thebedandshet ookoffherdr
    essandwor eher
    pjsherself
    ..
    ..shest
    oodupandf el
    tdizzyand
    shesatdownagai
    nwi t
    hherhandonher
    for
    ehead.
    ..
    .Al
    phal
    ett
    emovedcloser
    ***
    Al
    pha:
    what
    swr
    ong
    Masai:i
    m notyourconcer
    nany
    mor
    esomi
    nd
    yourownbusiness
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    Masai:orkengy
    ouwantmet
    ospel
    li
    toutf
    or
    you.
    ..
    .I
    TSOVER
    *
    **heswall
    owedhar
    dashi
    shear
    tbeat
    f
    aster
    ***
    Alpha:
    IknowImessedupMasai
    butt
    hatIwont
    accept
    Masai:
    itsnotupt
    oyou..
    ..
    gakesagony
    aka(I
    don’
    twantyouanymore)
    ..
    .i
    tsov
    er
    Al
    pha:
    noi
    tsnot
    *
    **shechuckl
    ed*
    ***
    Masai
    :youwannabet
    ***
    hedidn’
    tsayany
    thi
    nghej
    ustl
    ookedat
    her*
    **
    Masai
    :Ist
    ayedawayfr
    om myownt
    win,
    a
    per
    sonIsharedawombwit
    hwenaomang
    (whoareyou)
    *
    **heclenchedhi
    sjawsl
    ookingather
    ..
    ..
    his
    mindisrunni
    ngwil
    dandhishearti
    sbeati
    ng
    f
    ast**
    *
    Masai:gotoyourshortbaseasyoucall
    edher
    causeasformei m donewithyou.
    ..
    tomorr
    ow
    i
    m goingbackhome
    ***
    hesighedandhesatont
    heedgeoft
    he
    bed**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    wear
    enotov
    erandwewi
    l
    lnev
    erbe
    *
    **hesai
    ditt
    oocal
    mly
    ***
    Al
    pha:puni
    shmeallyouwantbutabr
    eakup
    wi
    llnev
    erhappenMasai
    Masai
    :youwannabet
    Alpha:im notgonnaar
    guewit
    hyouabout
    thi
    s..
    .youareangryandhur
    tandyou’
    renot
    thi
    nkingstrai
    ght
    Masai
    :Isai
    dmypiecegor
    eyou’
    rei
    ndeni
    ali
    s
    notmybusi
    ness
    ***
    shegotupagai nandshedi
    dn’
    tfeeldi
    zzy
    thi
    stimear oundsoshewenttothebathr
    oom
    l
    eavingAlphalet
    tesitt
    ingt
    her
    ewithhismindal
    l
    overtheplace***
    .
    .
    .

    I
    NTSHI
    MO’
    SBEDROOM

    *
    **Gazasnucki
    nsi
    deTshi
    mo’
    sbedr
    oom and
    goti
    nherbed..
    ..
    shegotst
    art
    ledwhenshef
    elta
    bodyspooni
    ngher**
    *
    Gaza:
    itsmer
    elax
    ***
    butshedidn’
    trel
    ax.
    ..
    .herhear
    tst
    art
    ed
    beati
    ngfast
    ***
    Tshimo:y
    oushouldn’
    tbeher
    eGee. .
    ..
    thi
    sisy
    our
    fat
    her’
    shouseandweshouldrespectit
    ***
    hishandwenttohercurvethentoherass
    andhesqueezedit
    ..
    ..
    hekissedherneckashe
    pushedhishar
    drotonherass...
    shecouldfeel
    howharditwasandherclitt
    witched*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    I’
    ll
    bequi
    ck
    Tshi
    mo:
    wecant
    ..
    .
    *
    **het
    ookof
    fherpj
    ***
    Tshi
    mo:
    Mabunda
    Gee:
    mama
    ***
    hesaidgett
    ingbetweenherl
    egsandhe
    bl
    ockedherentrancewit
    hhismushr
    oom head
    andpushedin.
    ..
    .shemoanedandhegroaned*
    **
    Gaza:
    nott
    ool
    oudmama
    ***hesai
    dashest ar
    tedtomov eandTshi mobit
    herlowerli
    ptr
    yingbyall
    meanst obequi etbut
    theslowlovemakingGazawasgi vingheris
    wayt oosweet.
    ..
    ..
    hemov edhiswaistasifhi
    s
    dancingtoarumbadancegr oani
    ngl i
    ghtl
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    sh*
    tIl
    ovey
    oumama
    **
    *hewentt oherfaceandki ssedherashe
    movedgoingdeeper .
    ..
    .Tshi
    mo’ seyesfi
    ll
    edwit
    h
    t
    earsasshet houghtaboutwhatshedi dand
    t
    hatthi
    smi ghtbethelastti
    mesheget stobe
    wit
    hhim andalsofeelhimlikethis**
    *
    Tshi
    mo: Il
    ovey
    out
    ooMabunda.
    ..
    iswearIl
    ove
    youtoo
    Gaza:
    Iknowmama
    ***hesai dst
    il
    lmovingandhemadesweetand
    slowl ovetoherandaftertheybothcamet
    hey
    fellasleepineachother’
    sar ms**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NALPHALETTEANDMASAI
    ’
    SBEDROOM

    ***Masai i
    sf astasleep...
    sheputpi l
    lows
    betweent hem andAl phaletteisstillawake
    staringatt hecei l
    ing..
    ..hewi shedhecoul djust
    turnt hehandsoft i
    me. .
    ..
    .hewi sheshegotup
    aftert hatdream andwentt obat hwi thmuthi
    l
    ikehi sancest ort ol
    dhi mt o..
    ..
    Heal sowishes
    het urnedandwal kedawaywhenhef ound
    Tshimoatt hatbalcony .
    ..
    .hewonder showGaza
    willreactifhef indsout ..
    ..
    Hesi ghedandt ur
    ned
    hisheadandhel ookedatMasai sleepingand
    heswal lowedhar d...
    .hercriesst i
    l
    lringinhis
    head..
    ..
    hehurtherri
    ghtaft
    erhepromisedher
    hewi l
    lnev
    erhurther.
    ..
    ..
    Heturnedbackand
    facedthecei
    l
    ingandhi smindconti
    nuedtorun
    wild*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NTHEMORNI
    NG(
    BNB)

    **
    *Hi
    ll
    swokeupandhemov edMpande’
    shand
    ar
    oundherandshegotoutofbed*
    **
    Mpande:
    uyaphi
    ***
    sheignoredhim andshewentt othe
    bathr
    oom....
    .af
    tershewasdoneshewentback
    tothebedroom andshef oundMpandesitt
    ing
    ontheedgeoft hebed. .
    ..
    hegotupandhisrod
    washardmaki ngat entonhisboxerbr
    ief
    s..
    .she
    swall
    owedhar dandl ookedawaygoingtoher
    tr
    aveli
    ngbagtogotakehertoi
    letr
    y
    bag..
    ..
    Mpandewenttothebathroom t
    opeeand
    aft
    erhewasdonehef l
    ushedandwashedhis
    handsthenhewentbacktothebedroom**
    *
    Mpande:
    woz
    ala(comeher
    e)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Ineedt
    oshowerMpande
    Mpande:ngi
    thewozal
    aNt
    abeni
    (Isai
    dcome
    her
    eNtabeni
    )
    *
    **shesi
    ghedandmov
    ercl
    osert
    ohi
    m andhe
    l
    ookedather
    ***
    Mpande:
    whyar
    eyoumad
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    im notmad
    Mpande:y
    oudi
    dn’twantmet ot
    ouchy
    ou.
    ..
    .i
    hadtowai
    tunt
    ily
    oufellasl
    eepf
    ormetot
    ouch
    you
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s:i
    tlooksli
    key ou’
    ref
    orcingthi
    ngs
    Mpande..
    ..
    .wekissedandstuffandyougot
    t
    urnedoffwheny
    ouwer
    eaboutt
    ogetbet
    ween
    mylegs
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    Idi
    dn’
    tgett
    urnedof
    f
    Hi
    ll
    s:yourdi
    ckbecamef
    lacci
    dinst
    ant
    ly
    Mpande!!
    ***shesaidast ear
    sf i
    lledherey es..
    ..
    shewasso
    embar rassedthatsheev enwentt othe
    bathroom togosmel l
    her sel
    fcausethe
    momentsheopenedherl egsaft
    ertheircl
    othes
    wer eoffhestoppedki ssi ngherandhemadea
    weirdlookonhi sfaceandhi sr
    odjustwentt o
    sl
    eep. .
    .hetol
    dhert hatt heyshouldstopcause
    she’sstil
    lmarriedandst uffandhedoesn’t
    wannabehersi dedishbutsheknewhewas
    l
    ying***
    Mpande:
    Ntabeni
    look
    Hi
    ll
    s:noit
    sok..
    ..
    butit
    snotfairwi
    thwhatyou
    di
    d..
    ..
    youknowim notyourt
    ypesoyoudidn’
    t
    hav
    etotaket
    hingst
    hatf
    ar.
    ..
    .ihav
    efeel
    i
    ngst
    oo
    Mpande
    *
    **het
    ri
    edt
    otouchherbutshest
    oppedhi
    m**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    stopgivi
    ngmemixedf
    eel
    i
    ngs.
    ..
    it
    snotf
    air
    wi
    thwhatyou’
    redoi
    ng
    Mpande:
    mamasl
    ook
    *
    **sheshookherheadno*
    **
    Hi
    ll
    s: f
    rom nowoni mf r
    iendzoni
    ngyousost op
    t
    hissill
    ygamey ou’repl
    aying.
    ..
    it
    scl
    earyouhav e
    aproblem withplussi
    zewomensost op
    Mpande. .
    ..andyoushouldbookanotherroom
    f
    ory ourself
    **
    *shewentt
    othebedroom andhesi
    ghed
    si
    tt
    ingdownontheedgeofthebed*
    **
    Mpande:
    damni
    tMpande
    *
    **hesai
    dtohi
    msel
    f**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    MASAIANDALPHALETTE’
    SBEDROOM

    ***Masai wokeupwi t
    hami graine.
    ..
    .shewentto
    thebat hroom t ofr
    eshenupandshewentback
    tot hebedr oom andshesatont heedgeoft he
    bedandsear chedforabusdepotar oundonthe
    i
    nt ernet..
    ..
    ThedooropenedandAl phalet
    te
    wal kedinwi thatrayonhi shands..
    ..hepull
    eda
    smal ltablefrom thecorneroftheroom andput
    i
    tinf rontofMasai andheputt hetraywitha
    plateoff oodoni t***
    Al
    pha:
    youshoul
    deatsoy
    ouwi
    l
    ldr
    inky
    ourpi
    l
    ls
    ***
    shedidn’
    tsayany t
    hing.
    ..
    .sheputherphone
    awayandshet ooktheplat
    eandat eslowly
    ..
    ..
    he
    wenttothebathroom andshortl
    yhecameback
    andsatnextt
    oherassheat esil
    entl
    y***
    Alpha:Iwassupposedt omar r
    yTshimotopay
    offadebtoneofmyancest orsowed.
    ..
    ..
    it
    smore
    l
    ikeagener at
    ionaldebtthatnoonewantedt
    o
    pay .
    ..
    ..
    evenmyf at
    herrefusedandhewas
    i
    nv olv
    edinanaccident..
    ..
    ***
    shestoppedeat
    ingf
    orasect
    henshe
    conti
    nued*
    **
    Alpha: myf atherdidn’
    twantmyf atet oendup
    l
    ikehi ssohemadeGeet omeetherf irstand
    that’showheendedupout sidehery ardand
    shesav edhim andt heyfel
    li
    nlove..
    ..
    .Her
    ancest orsarenothappycauseIt hinkt heyhave
    anul teri
    ormot iveaboutthi
    swholet hing..
    ..
    .Gee
    i
    si nlov ewithherandhewant stomakeherhi s
    wifesot hedebtwi l
    lbepaidbuttheyar enot
    happywi ththat.
    ..
    ..
    ithinki
    tsdeepthanwe
    anticipated
    *
    **shest
    il
    ldi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ng*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Idon’
    tlov
    ehermami
    itsj
    ustev
    il
    manipulat
    ionsdonebyherancest or
    sthatmake
    methinkIf eelsomethi
    ngf orher.
    ..
    .myhear
    t
    beat
    sf oryouMasai .
    ..
    .youaremysoul
    mate..
    ..
    Godmadey ouf orme...
    .i
    m sorr
    yIwas
    weakandIl etsomestupidancestorst
    o
    manipulat
    eme
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Alpha:
    Geeknowsaboutt
    hemar
    ri
    aget
    hingbut
    Tshimodoesn’
    t
    Masai:
    whichmeansherfeel
    ingsfory
    ouare
    her
    sandnotsomemani pul
    ationf
    rom her
    Ancest
    ors
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    Masai:stopusingt hi
    sstupidt act
    icstofi
    lt
    er
    yournonsense...
    .youtwoki ssedandt hat
    ’s
    that
    ..
    ..t
    here’snojusti
    fyi
    ngit..
    ..
    y outwokissed
    andIsawy ou..
    ..
    shewaski ssingy oubackso
    stopjusti
    fyi
    ngy oursh*t
    Al
    pha:
    Masai
    ..
    ..
    Masai :
    iml eavingtodayandifyoutryandst
    op
    meI ’
    llt
    ellGaz aandy ourfamil
    yaboutyouand
    Tshimo...
    .f
    r om nowonst ayawayf r
    om me..
    .we
    wil
    lco-parentpeacef ul
    lyandI’
    llmoveonand
    you’
    lldothesame. ..
    .whet
    herit
    swithTshimoor
    anothergirlIdon’tcareaslongasyoustayi
    n
    yourlaneasababydaddy
    Al
    pha:
    wear
    enotbr
    eaki
    ngupMasai
    Masai:f
    ineGazawi
    l
    lknowabouty
    ourst
    upi
    d
    shenani
    gans
    Al
    pha:
    Idon’
    tcar
    e..
    ..
    .meandy
    ouar
    enotov
    er
    *
    **sheputt
    hepl
    atedown*
    **
    Masai:
    rel
    ationshipsar
    enotbyf
    orcemothowa
    Modimo..
    .kareitsoverandt
    hat
    ’sthat
    ***
    shesai
    dlooki
    ngathim st
    rai
    ghti
    ntheey
    es
    andheret
    urnedt
    helookwithhi
    sjaws
    cl
    enched*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    wewi
    l
    lnev
    erbeov
    er
    Masai:t
    hat’
    sony
    ouasf
    ormei
    m donewi
    tht
    his
    r
    elat
    ionshi
    p
    ***
    shegotupandAl phal
    ett
    egrabbedher
    arm..
    ..
    .shelookedathimthenathishandbut
    hedidn’tl
    etgoinst
    eadhegotupst il
    lhol
    ding
    herarm* *
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Isai
    d..
    ..
    .wear
    enotbr
    eaki
    ngup
    **
    *hesaidwi
    thascar
    ylookonhisfaceandshe
    swal
    lowedhar
    dbutshestoodherground*
    **
    Masai
    :l
    etgoofmeAl
    phal
    ett
    e
    *
    **hej
    ustl
    ookedather
    ***
    Masai
    :gety
    ourhandof
    fme!
    !!
    ***
    hecontinuedtojustlookatherthenhe
    chuckl
    edshakinghisheadandhel etgot henhe
    walkedtothedoorandouthewent ..
    ..Masaisat
    downwi t
    hherheartbeat i
    ngfastandshe
    swall
    owed...
    .whenhel ookedatherlikethatshe
    fel
    tsomebonechi l
    lingaurafrom him...
    .i
    tsli
    ke
    hi
    saur
    achangedt
    osomet
    hingdar
    k**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    **
    *Alphal
    ett
    eopenedTshimo’sbedroom door
    wit
    houtknocki
    ngfir
    standhefoundherand
    Gazalyi
    nginbedtal
    kingandtheygotstar
    tl
    ed
    whenthedooropenedliket
    hat**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    wena
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngatTshi
    moandGaza
    f
    rowned*
    **
    Alpha:t
    ell
    thoseusel
    essAncest
    orsofy
    ours
    koreneretheycangotohel
    landbur
    ntoashes
    wanitwa!
    !!
    ***
    Gazasatupont hebedsti
    l
    l f
    rowningand
    Tshimo’seyesgotfi
    l
    ledwi
    thtears.
    ..
    shestar
    ted
    shakingwit
    hfear*
    **
    Gaza:
    Ntsakowapenga(Nt
    sakoar
    eyoucr
    azy
    )
    Al
    pha:
    stayoutoft
    hisGaza
    *
    **hesai
    dlooki
    ngangr
    y**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    wenal
    i
    keIsai
    dtel
    l
    ...
    Gaza:hei
    hei
    !!
    !!
    ..
    .ar
    eyouf
    uckenoutofy
    our
    mind!
    !!
    Al
    pha:yesim outofmymi nd.
    ..
    .iwil
    lnotl
    ose
    Masaibecauseofthist
    hingwanitwa(youhear
    me).
    ..
    ..
    I’
    veratherki
    l
    lherthanl
    oseMasai so
    wena.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesai
    dpoi
    nti
    ngatTshi
    mo*
    **
    Alpha:gotell
    thosecowar dsyoucallyour
    Ancestorskorenereitson..
    ..
    .t
    heymessedwi th
    thewrongonet hi
    st i
    mear ound..
    ..
    .t
    ell
    them i
    m
    notmyf ather
    ..
    ..
    .t
    histimearounditwontbe
    rapeI’
    l
    l f
    uckenburny oualiv
    ebeforeIletyou
    andthem messmyl i
    feup
    Gaza:
    THAT’
    SENOUGH!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngoutofbed.
    ..
    .byt
    hist
    ime
    Tshimoiscryingfeel
    ingscared.
    ..
    .t
    helookon
    Alphal
    ett
    e’sfacewasscar y
    ..
    ..hehadanev i
    l
    l
    ookonhi sface..
    ..
    rageiswri
    ttenonhisface**
    *
    Gaza:
    WHATTHEFUCKI
    SWRONGWI
    THYOU!
    !!
    AREYOUOUTOFYOURMIND!
    !!
    ***
    Alphalet
    tel
    ookedathisbrot
    hert
    henat
    Tshimoandheclickedhi
    stongueandwal
    ked
    out.
    ..
    .Gazatur
    nedandlookedatTshi
    mo
    cry
    ing***
    Gaza:
    whatwast
    hatabout
    ***shejustcri
    ed..
    ..
    she’sscaredthatMasaiwil
    l
    tel
    l ev
    eryonewhathappened. ..
    .shescaredt
    hat
    Gazawi llhat
    eher...
    ..
    shecant ell
    thatwhat
    happenedwontbekeptasecr et.
    ..
    ..
    Gazawil
    l
    knowonewayort heother.
    ..
    .shefeltl
    i
    ke
    dying..
    ..
    .i
    fonlyshedidn’tcomeher e“she
    thought”***
    Gaza:
    Tshi
    mol
    ogoi
    m notgonnaasky
    ouagai
    n!!
    !
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    ..
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER40
    .
    .
    .
    Tshi
    mo:
    im sor
    ryMabunda
    Gaza:
    whatar
    eyousor
    ryf
    or.
    ..
    .whatt
    hehel
    li
    s
    goi
    ngon!
    !!
    Tshi
    mo:
    wewer
    etal
    ki
    ngandt
    henextt
    hingwe.
    ..
    .
    *
    **Gaza’
    shear
    tst
    art
    edbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    Gaza:
    youwhat
    *
    **shej
    ustcr
    ied*
    **
    Gaza:
    YOUWHAT!
    !!
    *
    **heshout
    ed*
    **
    Tshi
    mo:
    we.
    ..
    weki
    ssed
    *
    **hecl
    osedhisey
    esabitandwhenheopened
    t
    hem..
    .t
    helookonhisf
    acewasdeadl
    y**
    *
    Gaza:
    uri
    yini
    (whatdi
    dyouj
    ustsay
    )
    Tshi
    mo: Idon’
    tknowwhathappenedMabundaI
    swear.
    ..
    im sor
    ryi
    ..
    ..
    ***her
    ushedtoherandgrabbedherbyherneck
    andsqueezeditashepul
    l
    edherof ft
    hebed
    roughl
    y**
    *
    Voi
    ce:
    “STOPI
    T!!
    !”
    **
    *hi
    sshapeshif
    terdemonshout
    edbuthe
    di
    dn’
    tlethergo.
    ..
    .herey
    esr
    oll
    edbackasshe
    str
    uggledtobr eathe...
    thenextthi
    ngGazaf l
    ew
    acrossther oom l
    ettinggoofTshi mo’sneck
    andhehi tthewal lwithhisbackandhef ell
    to
    thefloor
    ..
    ..
    Tshimof ellt
    ot hefl
    oorandshe
    cougheduncont roll
    ablywhi l
    eholdi
    ngherneck
    withtear
    sal loverherf ace..
    ..
    .Gazagotupand
    helookedatheront hefloorandhisangerhit
    rooftop.
    ...
    hechar gedatheragai n***
    Voice:
    “she’
    scar
    ryingourchi
    l
    ddamni
    t.
    ..
    .ar
    e
    yououtofyourmind!!
    !”
    ***
    Gazastoppedandheswal l
    owedhar d
    l
    ookingather.
    ..
    .she’
    snowcurli
    ngherselftoa
    bal
    lonthefloorprot
    ect
    ingherfaceshakingas
    shecri
    ed***
    Tshi
    mo:
    im sor
    ryGee.
    ..
    .i
    m sor
    ry.
    ..
    pleasef
    orgi
    ve
    me
    *
    **shesaidwi
    thanowhoar
    sev
    oicecr
    yingon
    t
    hefloor
    ***
    Gaza:
    packy
    ourshi
    tandl
    eav
    e..
    ..
    .i
    fIcomeback
    andf
    indy
    ouher
    eI’
    l
    lki
    l
    lyouandi
    m notj
    oki
    ng!
    !!
    ***
    hesaidwi
    thanangr
    yvoiceandhewal
    ked
    outandTshi
    mowail
    ed***
    *
    .
    .
    .
    Gaza:
    NTSAKO!
    !!
    ***He’
    ssearchi
    ngforhi
    m al
    lovershouti
    nghi
    s
    name..
    ..
    hisy
    oungersist
    ermethim hal
    fwayand
    whenshesawt hel
    ookonhisfaceshe
    swall
    owed**
    *
    Sophi
    e:Bhu.
    ..
    bhut
    i
    *
    **hei
    gnor
    edher
    ***
    Gaza:
    NTSAKO!
    !!
    ***
    hewentt ohisbedroom heshar
    eswi
    th
    Masai andhefoundMasai cl
    osi
    nghert
    ravel
    i
    ng
    bag..
    ..
    shegotstart
    ledwhenheopenedthedoor
    roughlyandhejustwal
    kedbackoutwit
    hout
    sayinganyt
    hingtoherandhecont
    inuedto
    searchforhi
    m...
    ..
    hewentdownstair
    sand
    bumpedi nt
    oAlpha’smother
    ***
    Mrs.Rei
    neke:
    wamemezakangakaGaza..
    .y
    ini
    i
    ndaba(whyar ey
    oushout
    ingl
    iket
    his.
    ..
    .what
    ’s
    wrong)
    ***heignoredherandwentt othebackyardand
    hef oundAl phal
    ett
    etal
    ki
    ngt ohisfat
    her.
    ..
    .He
    rushedt othem andhegrabbedAlphalet
    teby
    hisshirtteari
    ngiti
    ntheprocess**
    *
    Mr
    .Mabunda:
    Gazankul
    u!!
    !
    Gaza:
    didn’
    tIwar
    nyouNt
    sako
    Al
    pha:
    Geel
    ook.
    ..
    isweari
    tsnotwhaty
    out
    hink
    **
    *hecouldt
    ellGazaknowsaboutwhathedi
    d
    wit
    hTshimo***
    Gaza:
    DIDN’
    TIWARNYOU!
    !!
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    dasGazal
    etgoof
    hi
    sshi
    rtandhel
    andedapunchonhi
    sjawand
    Al
    phafel
    ltot
    heground*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    im sor
    ryGee
    Gaza:
    sor
    ryy
    amat
    ji
    mba.
    ..
    .sor
    ryy
    amat
    ji
    mba!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dasheki
    ckedhi
    m whi
    l
    ehe’
    sst
    il
    lon
    t
    heground*
    **
    Mr.
    Mabunda: what
    sgoingon
    her
    e..
    ..
    Gazankul
    u..
    ..
    Ntsako!
    !!
    Gaza:
    youev
    enhav
    ethener
    vet
    othr
    eat
    enher
    **
    *hesai
    dignor
    inghi
    sfat
    herandhepoi
    ntedat
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e***
    Al
    pha:
    wewer
    ebot
    hatf
    aul
    t
    Gaza:f
    *ckyouNtsako.
    ..
    .wani
    twa..
    ..
    f*ck
    you!
    !!
    ..
    ..
    youknewandshedidn’t
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Alpha:
    lookGeeIknowImessedupok.
    ..
    .i
    know..
    .i
    m aboutt
    oloset
    hel
    oveofmylif
    e
    Gaza:sothat’
    sally
    oucar eabout
    ..
    ..
    whatabout
    me...
    .whataboutme..
    ..
    youbetray
    edme
    Ntsako.
    ..
    .iwarnedyoudidn’
    ti
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Alpha:i
    m sorryGee. .
    ..
    iknowImessedup. ..
    .i
    takeful
    lresponsibil
    it
    yforbeingweakbutim not
    sorrywi
    thwhatIsai dtoher.
    ..
    .herAncest
    orsare
    tobeblamedf oral lt
    hissh*tandshealsodidn’
    t
    stopmet oshowt hatshe’
    sincahootswith
    whatherAncest orsaredoing
    ***
    Gazagr abbedhistornshir
    tandswunga
    punchandi tlandedonAlphal
    ette’
    sjawandhe
    fel
    lbacktot hegroundandhisfather
    shouted*
    **
    Mr.
    Mabunda:VANALAVAVANI
    HLOLELA!
    !!
    HEI
    MAPENGA!!
    !
    Al
    pha:
    Gee.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesai
    dget
    ti
    ngupandwipi
    nghi
    sbl
    eedi
    ng
    mouthwi
    thhi
    stor
    nshi
    rt
    ***
    Gaza:
    you.
    ..
    ..
    youdot
    hist
    omeNt
    sako
    Alpha:im sorr
    yGeebutmaybethi
    sisf
    ort
    he
    best.
    ..
    .she’snotgoodf
    ort
    hisfami
    ly
    ***Anotherpunchlandedonhisf
    aceand
    anotheronewhi chlandedAl
    phal
    ett
    etothe
    groundagain..
    .MrMabundagotbetweenthem
    ***
    Gaza:repeatwhaty
    ouj
    ustsai
    dyoupi
    eceof
    sh*t
    !!
    !
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    egotupsmi
    l
    ing*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    Isai
    drepeatwhaty
    ouj
    ustsai
    d
    Alpha:
    she’
    snotgoodf orthi
    sfamil
    y.
    ..
    webot
    h
    knowthisy
    ou’
    rejustbeingindeni
    al
    ***
    Gazapushedhi sfatheroutofthewayand
    chargedatAlphal
    etteandtheyfought.
    ..
    They
    bothlandedpunchesateachot herwhi
    leMr
    Mabundashout edthattheyshould
    stop.
    ..
    .Al
    phalet
    te’
    smothercameoutandsaw
    them f
    ight
    ingandshescreamed*
    **
    Mrs.
    Rei
    neke:
    hei
    hei
    nenzani
    !
    !!(hei
    hei
    whatar
    e
    youdoi
    ng)
    ***shesai drushingtothem. .
    ..
    Gazakicked
    Alphaletteandhef el
    ltothegroundandhegot
    ont opofhi m andt hr
    ewhar dpunchesat
    hi
    m. .
    ..
    hisfathergrabbedhi mfrom behi
    ndand
    tr
    iedt opullhim offAlphalet
    tewhowas
    blockinghishar dpuncheswi thhisarms
    cov eri
    nghisf acebuthecoul dn’t
    ..
    .MrsRei
    neke
    hi
    tGazawi t
    hherweakpunchesonhi sback
    shout i
    ng***
    Mr
    s.Rei
    neke:
    STOPI
    T..
    .STOPI
    T..
    .
    *
    **Gazacont
    inuedpunchi
    nghi
    m**
    *
    Mabunda:
    Gazankul
    u!!
    !
    ***hestoppedpunchingAl phal
    ett
    eandhe
    grabbedhim byhisbloodiedandtornshi
    rtand
    pulledhi
    sbruisedfaceclosertohis*
    **
    Alpha:Gee.
    ..sowegonnal
    etawomancome
    betweenus...
    .
    Gaza:shutit
    !!im notdonewi
    thyou..
    .y
    oupi
    ece
    ofsh*t
    ..
    ..
    thisisnothi
    ngcomparedtowhati
    m
    gonnadot oyounxa
    ***hebangedhisbackalongwiththebackof
    hi
    sheadt othegroundandhespi tnextt
    o
    Alphal
    ett
    eont hegroundandhegotupand
    walkedaway..
    ..
    MrsRei nekehel
    pedherbleedi
    ng
    sontositupasshecr i
    ed* *
    *
    Mr.
    Mabunda:MekwebuyakaMabunda
    mai
    bonanyoka.
    ..
    .vanal
    avav
    ani
    hlol
    ela.
    ..
    *
    **hesai
    ddef
    eat
    ed*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    ***
    Masai i
    sstandi
    ngout
    sidet
    heyar
    dwithher
    bags.
    ..
    .shecal
    ledHil
    l
    stoaskMpandet
    ocome
    pi
    ckherup, Hil
    lsgotal
    armedandshedidask
    Mpandet ogogethersoshequi et
    lywal
    kedout
    oftheyardwiththecat
    eri
    ngcrewbusysetti
    ng
    uptheirthi
    ngsoutsi
    de.
    ..
    ..
    Shesawacardr i
    vi
    ng
    outofthepremisesasshewaitedforMpande
    anditstoppednexttoherandi
    twasGaza* *
    *
    Gaza:
    you’
    rel
    eav
    ing
    ***shesighedandnodded..
    .hereyesgotfil
    l
    ed
    withtearsandtheyf
    ellbutshequickl
    ywiped
    them...
    Gazasighedhegotoutoft hecar,he
    tookherbagandputi ti
    nthebootofhi scar
    thenheopenedt hecardoorforherandshegot
    i
    n....
    shehasaheadacheandi t’
    spounding
    hard***
    Masai:Mpandei
    sonhiswayt
    ocomeandget
    me..
    ..
    iaskedmysist
    ert
    obookmearoom
    wheretheyar
    e
    *
    **Gazatookouthi
    sphoneanddi
    aled
    Mpande*
    * *
    Mpande: GeeIwasaboutt
    ocal l
    youcause
    Alphaisnotpi
    cki
    ngmycal l
    .
    ..what’
    sgoi
    ngon
    thereHil
    l
    sisworri
    edaboutMasai
    Gaza:
    im br
    ingi
    nghert
    othatBnB
    Mpande:
    whathappened
    Gaza:
    yourbr
    otherki
    ssedTshi
    mo
    **
    * Masaiswal
    lowedhardandsheclosedher
    eyesasthatscenepl
    ayedinherhead***
    Mpande:
    heh.
    ..
    uthi
    ni
    Gaza:
    byt het
    imei
    m donewi
    thbot
    hof
    t
    hem...
    .y
    ouallwi
    ll
    cal
    lmeevi
    l
    Mpande:
    woohGee.
    ..
    ..
    notl
    i
    ket
    hatbaf
    o
    Gaza:thi
    sisbetweenmeandhi
    m..
    ..
    dontget
    i
    nvolv
    edRoot s
    Mpande:im get
    ti
    ngi
    nvol
    vedcausey
    ouar
    ebot
    h
    mybrother
    s
    Gaza:
    hedi
    dn’
    tthi
    nki
    m hi
    sbr
    otherwhenhedi
    d
    whathedi
    d
    *
    ***
    Mpandesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    how’
    sMasai
    Gaza:
    hur
    t
    Mpande:
    damni
    t.
    ..
    okI
    ’
    lldr
    ivebackandwai
    tfor
    you
    **
    * t
    hent
    heyendedthecal
    landGazal
    ookedat
    Masaiwhohadherheadrest
    edonthe
    window*
    **
    Gaza:
    arey
    oui
    nanypai
    n
    *
    **shenoddedast
    ear
    srandownherf
    ace*
    **
    Masai
    :ahav
    eaheadacheandi
    t’
    sget
    ti
    ngwor
    se
    ***ri
    ghtt
    henshebledfr
    om hernose.
    ..
    .Gaza
    l
    ookedatherandhiseyespoppedout.
    ..
    .He
    quickl
    ychangedhi
    sroute*
    **
    Gaza:
    imt
    aki
    ngy
    out
    othehospi
    tal
    *
    **shedi
    dn’
    tsayany
    thi
    ngshej
    ustr
    eachedf
    ora
    ti
    ssueinsideherhandbagandshewi pedthe
    bloodoffthensheclosedhereyesasmor e
    tearsgushedout.
    ..
    .Gazaheldherhand***
    Gaza:
    all
    wil
    lbewel
    l
    ...j
    usthangi
    nther
    e
    *
    **sheshookherheadnoasshewi
    pedt
    he
    f
    all
    ingbl
    oodoff*
    **
    Masai
    :Isawt
    hem.
    ..
    ..
    hepr
    omi
    sedhewonthur
    t
    me
    ***
    shesaidcryi
    ngandGazaswal
    l
    owed
    hard.
    ..
    .hef
    eltsor
    ryf
    orher
    ***
    Gaza:
    im sor
    ryMasai
    Masai :Ir
    aisedmyconcer nswithhim andhe
    blewt hem offandcal
    ledmei nsecure.
    ..
    .icant
    believeIhaveanotherfai
    l
    ed
    relati
    onshi
    p...
    ..
    maybeim cursed
    *
    **shesai
    dcont
    inui
    ngt
    hebl
    oodof
    f**
    *
    Gaza:you’
    renot
    ..
    .y
    ou’
    rejustdati
    ngthewrong
    guys.
    ..
    .guy
    swhodon’tappreci
    ateyou.
    ..
    .dont
    ev
    ersayy
    ou’
    recur
    sedcausey
    ou’
    renot
    ***
    shekeptquietandshewipedhertear
    soff
    andsheclosedhereyesassherestedherhead
    ontheclosedwindow..
    ..
    .Af
    terawhil
    ethey
    arr
    ivedatthehospi
    tal
    andGazat ookouthi
    s
    phoneanddi al
    edMpande***
    Mpande:
    Gee
    Gaza:
    Root
    sim att
    hehospi
    tal
    rightnow
    Mpande:
    why
    ..
    .what
    swr
    ong
    Gaza:Masaii
    snotfeel
    ingwel
    l.
    ..
    .shehasa
    headacheandshe’
    salsobl
    eedi
    ngf r
    om her
    nostr
    il
    s
    Mpande:
    damni
    t.
    ..
    .shej
    ustgotoutofhospi
    tal
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedl
    ooki
    ngather
    ***
    Gaza:y
    eah...
    lookbr
    inghersi
    sterher
    e..
    ..
    I’
    ll
    pin
    youourlocat
    ion
    *
    **Mpandesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    I’
    ll
    letAl
    phaknowt
    oo
    ***Gazaj ustdroppedhi scal l
    ....
    justhearinghi s
    namehadhi m boil
    ingwi thanger .
    ..hegotoutof
    thecarandcl osedhi sdoorandhewentt oopen
    thedoorf orMasai andhel pedherout ...
    shef el
    t
    dizzyandGazahel dher .
    ..
    .hepi ckedherup
    bridalsty l
    eandhecl osedt hedoorwi thhisfoot
    andhel ockedt hecarandwal kedt othe
    emer gencyent rancewi thheri nhi sarm. .
    .she
    restedherheadhi sshoul derwi thherey es
    closed, theheadachei snowpoundi nghar dand
    i
    tsaf fectingherv ision..
    ..
    .shest artshakingasi f
    she’sf eelingcoldmoani ngf rom t hepaint r
    ying
    tobest r
    ong* **
    Gaza:
    hol
    dont
    hey
    ’l
    lhel
    pyouj
    ustnow
    ***heshoutedforhel
    pandaporterrushedwi
    th
    astret
    cherandGazaputheronit.
    ..
    .anurseal
    so
    rushedtothem adhetol
    dherabouther
    condit
    ion*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    BACKATTHEMABUNDAHOMESTEAD

    ***
    Alphai
    sbusyt
    ryi
    ngMasai’
    snumberbuti
    ts
    sendi
    nghi
    snumbersst
    rai
    ghttovoi
    cemai
    l**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    damni
    t
    ***hegottothei
    rbedroom andi t’sempt y.
    ..
    .he
    searchesforherevery
    wher eunt i
    loneoft he
    cateri
    ngcrewmember stoldhimt hatal ady
    mat chi
    ngherdescript
    ionleftthepr emi sesand
    shegotintoacarthatleftthepr emi sesandi t
    droveawayandhegoesber serk...
    .He’ s
    thi
    nkingtheworstthatwhati fGazat ookher
    andhe’sgonnahur thi
    m backbyusi ngher .
    ..
    .Hi
    s
    phoner i
    ngsanditsMpandesohequi ckl
    y
    answersit**
    *
    Al
    pha:
    Mpandewehav
    eapr
    obl
    em.
    ..Geej
    ust
    ..
    .
    Mpande:whyarenty
    ouanswer
    ingmy
    cal
    l
    s..
    ..
    GeerushedMasait
    othehospi
    tal
    *
    **hef
    roze*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Wh.
    ..
    what
    Mpande:
    hej
    ustcal
    l
    edme.
    ..
    .whathappened
    Al
    pha
    **
    *heknewhej
    ustwantedhi
    mtosayi
    tand
    Al
    phal
    ett
    eswal
    l
    owed***
    Al
    pha:
    whi
    chhospi
    tal
    ***
    hesaidr
    ushi
    ngupst
    air
    stot
    hei
    rbedr
    oom t
    o
    change*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whathappenedt
    omysi
    ster
    *
    **sheaskedGaza.
    ..
    itwast
    hef
    ir
    stt
    imeshe’
    s
    meeti
    nghim butshedi
    dn’
    tcar
    e,al
    lshecar
    ed
    aboutwasMasai***
    Gaza:youshoul
    daskherwhathappened.
    ..
    im
    j
    ustthedri
    ver
    *
    **hel
    ookedatMpande*
    **
    Gaza:f
    oll
    owmeandoohNt
    abeni
    itsni
    cet
    o
    fi
    nal
    lymeety
    ou
    *
    **hewal
    kedaway
    ***
    Mpande:
    I’
    ll
    beback
    *
    **shei
    gnor
    edhim andhesi
    ghedt
    henhe
    f
    oll
    owedGaza*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    OUTSI
    DE
    Mpande:
    tel
    lmewhaty
    out
    oldmei
    sn’
    ttr
    ue
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:TshimoandNt
    sakokissedRoot
    ..
    ..
    they
    ki
    ssed..
    ..
    Tshi
    moconfessed
    *
    **Mpande’
    sey
    espoppedout
    ***
    Mpande:
    wow
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedandher
    ubbedhi
    sey
    es*
    **
    Gaza:
    Icantbel
    i
    evehedi
    dmesodi
    rt
    yRoot
    Mpande:
    but
    ..
    ..ei
    sh.
    ..
    .y
    ahneh
    *
    **hesi
    ghednotknowi
    ngwhatt
    osay
    ***
    Gaza:andhehur
    tMasai
    ..
    ..
    .t
    hepai
    nisawonher
    facewashear
    tbr
    eaki
    ng
    Mpande:
    damni
    t.
    ..
    .
    *
    **hesai
    dcl
    enchi
    nghi
    sjaws*
    **
    Gaza:shesai
    dshesawthem..
    .atl
    eastIdi
    dn’
    t
    seethem y
    enashe’
    sgonnali
    vewiththati
    mage
    for
    ever
    Mpande:howcoul
    dhedothis.
    ..
    .iknowhelov
    es
    Masaisowhywouldhehur
    therli
    ket hat
    Gaza:Iknowhe’sgonnablamet
    hecurse.
    ..
    .
    ent
    lekf*ckthecur
    se..
    ..
    hehadachoi
    cetowalk
    awayort oevenav
    oidher
    Mpande:
    thi
    sisbad.
    ..
    .hewasgonnapr
    opose
    t
    oday
    Gaza:
    IswearIhavebadluckwi
    thwomen.
    ..
    .i
    t
    houghtTshi
    moi sdi
    ff
    erent
    Voi
    ce:
    “shei
    s”
    *
    **Theshapeshi
    ft
    erdemonspoke*
    **
    Gaza:
    “shutup!
    !”
    **
    *hesai
    dwit
    hhi
    sinnerv
    oicewi
    thaf
    rownon
    hi
    sface*
    **
    Voice:
    “yougonnaf orgiveherandbuil
    daf uture
    wit
    hher .
    ..
    .shei
    scar ry
    ingouroffspr
    ing.
    ..
    .she’s
    boundedtousf or
    ev er”
    Gaza:
    “Isai
    dshutup”
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thhi
    sinnerv
    oiceagai
    n**
    *
    Voice:”i
    m gl
    adwhathappenedhas
    happened..
    ..
    yourbrotherlosinghi
    swomanwi l
    l
    makehi mtakethismani pulati
    onfr
    om t
    hose
    uselessancest
    orsandt hatdeadbeatfat
    heras
    youhumanscal lseri
    ous”
    Gaza:“
    areyouf*ck*nser
    iousri
    ghtnow.
    ..
    .ij
    ust
    gotbet
    rayedandy ouhav
    et hener
    vetosay
    you’
    regl
    adithappened”
    Mpande:
    Geear
    eyouok
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghedandwi
    pedhi
    sface*
    **
    Gaza:
    yeahi
    m good
    Voice: “
    thi
    swhol et hi
    ngiswaydeepert hany ou
    thi
    nk. .
    ..
    yourbrotherisatargetfrom ourgi r
    l’
    s
    deadbeatf ather..
    ..
    heknowsabouther
    exi
    st enceandy ourbrother’
    sgiftandr i
    ghtnow
    ourunbor nchildisindanger..
    ..
    Thi swholet hi
    ng
    i
    spl annedhumanandi fyoufal
    l forthetrapand
    l
    ethergoI ’
    ll
    killyou”
    *
    **Gazacl
    enchedhi
    sjawsangr
    yashel
    l
    ***
    Gaza:Root
    syoushoul
    dgobacktoNtabeni
    .
    ..i
    j
    ustneedsometi
    mealone.
    ..
    I’
    l
    lbeinmycar
    *
    **Mpandesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    im sor
    ryGee.
    ..
    .Al
    phaf
    *ck*
    duppr
    ett
    y
    bad
    ***Gazadidn’tsayany
    thi
    ngandMpandesi ghed
    thenhewal kedbacktoHil
    ls.
    ..
    .Gazasi
    ghedand
    hewal kedaway **
    *
    Gaza:“i
    fyouev erthreatenmeagai nI ’
    l
    lhave
    youexorci
    sedandImeani t..
    ..
    youthinkyou’
    re
    doingmeaf avourbutthetruthiswear edoing
    eachotheraf avour.
    ..
    .evenifyoukill
    mysonI ’
    l
    l
    makeanot heronenxa. ..
    .sorefrai
    nfrom
    thr
    eateni
    ngmeandt hisisthelastti
    meIwar n
    youdemon”
    *
    **Thev
    oicekeptqui
    etabi
    t*
    **
    Voi
    ce:
    “thenameisMammonandIpr
    efert
    obe
    cal
    l
    edaf al
    l
    enAngel
    notdemon”
    Gaza:
    “f*
    cky
    ou”
    *
    **Mammonl
    aughed*
    **
    Mammon: “
    y ouclear
    lydon’
    tknowt hefal
    len
    Angelthathaspossessedy ou..
    ..
    ihav eevol
    ved
    human, Icannowshapeshi ftintoanyhumanI
    want..
    .ievenhav eabil
    iti
    esthatwillshock
    you.
    ...
    youandy ourentir
    epast,presentand
    fut
    uregener ati
    oncombi nedarenot hingto
    me...
    .icanv anquishyounowandpossess
    anotherhumansowat chwhaty ousayt ome”
    *
    **Gazachuckl
    ed*
    **
    Gaza: “
    onethingIknowaboutdemonsi
    sthat
    theyfearthenameoftheLordJesus
    Christ
    ..
    ..
    yourkindwetthei
    rpant
    swhenone
    call
    supont heesonofGod”
    Mammon:
    “shutupy
    ouweakhuman”
    Gaza:“
    say
    sademont
    hatneedsahostt
    o
    sur
    viv
    e”
    ***Mammonscr eamedinhisheadandhe
    stoppednotfarfr
    om hi
    scarandheheldhis
    headwithhisjawscl
    enched.
    ..
    .hefel
    tli
    kehi
    s
    headwasaboutt oexpl
    ode***
    Gaza:
    STOP.
    ..
    .STOP.
    ..
    STOPI
    TDAMNI
    T!!
    !
    *
    **hesai
    doutl
    oudandt
    hedemonl
    aughed*
    **
    Mammon:
    “weakf
    ool
    ”
    Gaza:
    f*cky
    ou.
    ..
    youweakassdemon
    Mammon:
    “you’
    renotev
    enwor
    thmyscr
    eami
    ng
    voi
    ce“
    **
    * t
    henhewentawayandGazastoodup
    st
    raightandheunl
    ockedhi
    scarandhegoti
    n
    wipi
    nghi snowbl
    eedi
    ngnose*
    **
    Gaza:
    nxa
    ***
    heclosedthedoorandopenedhi
    swindow
    andheleanedbackontheseatandhecl
    osed
    hi
    seyes***
    .
    .
    .

    ***
    Mpandegott
    oHill
    sandhesatnextt
    ohim
    andhetr
    iedt
    oholdherhandbutshemoved
    i
    t***
    Mpande:
    Mamas
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    notnowMpande
    Mpande:
    im sor
    ryaboutwhathappened
    Hil
    ls:
    nowIknowgor
    ekaony
    ont
    sha(Idi
    sgust
    you)
    Mpande:
    whati
    sukuny
    onsa
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mxm Googl
    eit
    ***shesaidgettingupandshewenttosi
    tfar
    from him..
    ..
    hejustlookedatherwi
    thafr
    ownon
    hisface..
    ..
    Alphalet
    terushedi
    nandhespott
    ed
    them thenher ushedtothem***
    Al
    pha:
    wher
    eisshe.
    ..
    howi
    sshe
    ***
    MpandegotupandhepunchedAl phalet
    te
    onhisf
    aceandhef el
    ltot
    hef l
    oor
    ..
    .Hill
    squickl
    y
    gotupandshest oodther
    eshocked....
    she
    l
    ookedatAlpha’sbrui
    sedfaceandbust edli
    p
    andshewonder edwhathappenedtohi m andif
    hi
    m gett
    ingthosebrui
    seshasanythingt odo
    wit
    hMasai bei
    nghospital
    ized*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Mpande.
    ..
    ***
    hesaidwit
    halowtonesit
    ti
    ngupl
    ooki
    ngup
    athim wi
    thafr
    ownonhisface*
    **
    Mpande:
    fosek!
    !!
    **
    *hesai
    dwi t
    hascar
    ylookonhisf
    aceandhe
    gr
    abbedAlphal
    ett
    ebyhi
    sshir
    tandhepul
    led
    hi
    m up**
    *
    Mpande:
    let
    ’sgoandt
    alk
    *
    **t
    heywal
    kedawaywi
    thAl
    phal
    ett
    echuckl
    i
    ng
    l
    eav
    ingHi
    ll
    sfr
    ozenont
    hespot
    ***
    _
    ___

    ATTHEMABUNDAHOMESTEAD

    ***Tshimoi stryingtofindawayofl eav i


    ngthe
    premiseswi thoutbei ngnot i
    ced,atthesame
    ti
    mesheneedst hehouse' saddresssoshe’ ll
    requestanubermeani ngsheneedst ocomeup
    withal i
    etot ellGaza’ssistersandAl phalet
    te’s
    mot her.
    ..
    .ShehopesGazaorMasai di dn’
    ttell
    them aboutwhatt ranspiredbetweenherand
    Alphalett
    e..
    ..shesighsandwal ksoutt ogof ind
    oneoft hesist er
    s***

    _
    ___

    OUTSI
    DETHEHOSPI
    TAL
    Mpande:
    howcoul
    dyouman
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    esi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    howi
    sMasai
    Mpande:answermyquest
    ion!
    ..
    ..
    doy
    ouknow
    howhurtGeeis
    Alpha:
    Iknowok.
    ..
    he’
    sangr
    ytoo.
    ..
    .l
    ookatmy
    face
    Mpande:wel
    lyoudeser
    veditnxa.
    ..
    .it
    hought
    youl
    ovedMasaibutIguessIwaswr ong
    Al
    pha:
    Imayf
    *ckupbutMasai
    ismyl
    i
    feman
    Mpande:
    andt
    hati
    swhaty
    oudot
    oyousi
    ckl
    i
    fe!
    *
    **Al
    phal
    ett
    ekeptqui
    etabi
    t*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    howi
    sshe
    Mpande:
    nxa
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    Idon’
    tknow.
    ..
    .t
    heyar
    est
    il
    lbusywi
    th
    her
    ***
    Alphalett
    ebrushedhishai
    rwithhi
    s
    hand..
    ..
    he’sscar
    ed..
    .scar
    edoflosi
    ngher
    ***
    Mpande:
    youmesseduppr
    ett
    ybadman
    *
    **Al
    phasi
    ghed*
    **
    Al
    pha:
    Iknow.
    ..
    ..
    im aboutt
    oloset
    hel
    oveofmy
    l
    if
    e
    Mpande:eish.
    ..
    naweAl
    phamanyou’
    ref
    ull
    of
    sh*
    t..
    .ent
    lekms*nuwakhomannxa
    *
    **hewentbackt oHil
    lsl
    eavi
    nghim st
    andi
    ng
    t
    here.
    ..
    Alphal
    ett
    esighedandfol
    l
    owedhi m**
    *

    _
    ___

    ATANUNDI
    SCLOSEDLOCATI
    ON
    Oldman:yesss..
    .il
    ovei
    twhent
    hingsgo
    accor
    dingtoplan
    Wei
    rdguy
    :youmustbehappybaba
    Oldman: oohyesmyboy .
    ...
    sheneedstostay
    awayf r
    om thatusel
    esspossessedboy..
    .Ineed
    theotherbrot
    her’
    sbloodi
    nmyl i
    neage.
    ..
    ineeda
    connecti
    onwi t
    htheunderwaterworl
    d
    Weirdguy:y
    esy
    esbaba.
    ..
    .y
    esy
    ouneedt
    hat
    connect
    ion
    *
    **hesai
    dsmi
    l
    ingshowi
    nghi
    sdi
    rt
    ybr
    own
    t
    eeth*
    **
    Ol
    dman: nowwhatIneedt odoismakeher
    r
    eachouttotheotherbr
    otherandwalaa.
    ..
    .t
    his
    t
    imearoundthey
    ’l
    lgivemeagr andchi
    ldand
    marr
    iagewil
    lbeabonusf orme
    Wei
    rdguy
    :yesy
    esbaba
    OldMan:
    let
    sthr
    owt hebonesandseehowwe
    canmani
    pul
    ateher
    ***theoldmant ur
    nedtoacreepystatueonhi s
    ri
    ghtsidebyt hewal l
    andhespoket oit.
    ..
    ..
    it
    s
    oozingar edli
    quidfrom i
    tsmouth,eyesand
    ears,t
    hent hewei r
    dguyreachedforthewei r
    d
    animal,humanbonesandcoi nsontopoft he
    goatskint hat
    ’sonthefl
    oorandhepi ckedthem
    up..
    .hespoket othem andthrewthem backon
    thegoatski nandtheoldmanr eadthem* **
    Ol
    dMan:
    what
    !!
    !
    Wei
    rdguy
    :nono
    ***
    hesai
    dput
    ti
    nghi
    shandsont
    opofhi
    s
    head*
    **
    Oldman:damni
    t.
    ..
    .damni
    t!
    !!Howdi
    dthi
    s
    happen!
    !!
    ***hesai
    dsoundi
    ngangryandtheweir
    dguy
    curl
    edint
    oaball
    ..
    ..
    he’
    sscaredofhi
    m especi
    all
    y
    whenhe’sangr
    yli
    kethi
    s**
    *
    Oldman: sheneedst
    oloset
    hatbast
    ard
    chi
    ld.
    ..
    .now!!
    !
    Wei
    rdguy
    :yesbabay
    es.
    ..
    ***
    hesai
    dreachi
    ngf
    oraf
    emal
    edol
    landsome
    needl
    es*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    ..
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO
    (
    ATRI
    GGERWARNI NG.
    ..
    GRAPHI
    CREFERENCE
    OFAMISCARRI
    AGE)

    ★★★ TODAREI
    STODO★★★ 18SLV
    .
    .
    .
    CHAPTER41
    .
    .
    .

    Oldman:i
    tlooksl
    i
    kethepregnancyissti
    l
    l ear
    ly
    soshewontevennot
    icewhenshel osesthe
    bast
    ardbaby
    Wei
    rdguy
    :yesy
    esbaba
    ***hesaidthenhechant edsomewor dsalso
    call
    ingTshimo’snamel ooki
    ngatt hedoll
    wrappedwi thredandblackcloths,hepusheda
    needleont hedollsst
    omachashechant ed
    thosewor dscall
    ingTshimologo’sname...
    .he
    continuedtochantashepushedanot her
    needletothedoll’sst
    omachar eaandanot her
    onet henheputitdownoni tsback***
    Oldman:t
    hat’
    sgood.
    ..
    that’
    sgood..
    .that
    bast
    ardt
    hingneedst
    oev apor
    ate
    _
    ___

    ***
    SincelastnightMoerahasbeenr estl
    essand
    sheknowswhenshe’ sli
    ket hatMasai i
    snot
    wellwher
    ev ersheis.
    ..
    ..Rightnowshe’ s
    contempl
    at i
    ngonwhet hert ocallHi
    ll
    sandask
    aboutMasai ornot.
    ..
    .Shedeci destocallHi
    ll
    sso
    shedial
    shernumber s* *
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wowshef
    inal
    l
    yremember
    sme
    *
    **Moer
    achuckl
    edner
    vousl
    y**
    *
    Moer
    a:howar
    eyouHi
    l
    ls
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    ali
    veandy
    ou
    Moer
    a:al
    i
    vet
    oo.
    ..
    so.
    ..
    *
    **shepausedabi
    t**
    *
    Moer
    a:howi
    sMasai
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whydon’
    tyoucal
    lherandaskher
    *
    **Shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:
    Idon’
    tthi
    nkshewi
    l
    lanswermycal
    l
    s
    Hi
    ll
    s
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    doy
    oubl
    ameher
    *
    **Moer
    akeptqui
    et*
    **
    Moer
    a:howi
    sshe
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    youhadt
    hef
    eel
    i
    ngr
    ight
    *
    **Moer
    acl
    ear
    edhert
    hroat
    ***
    Moer
    a:y
    eah
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wel
    lshe’
    sinhospi
    tal
    .
    ..agai
    n
    Moera:
    why.
    ..
    .igotat
    extf
    rom mamasay
    ing
    shewasdi
    schargedmos
    Hil
    l
    s:don’
    twor
    ryshe’
    l
    lbef
    inei
    tsnot
    hing
    ser
    ious
    Moer
    a:i
    m notwor
    ri
    ed
    Hil
    ls:
    ifyou’
    renott
    henwhydi
    dyoucal
    laski
    ng
    abouther
    *
    **Moer
    asi
    ghed*
    **
    Moera:
    hai
    nev
    ermi
    ndt
    henHi
    l
    ls.
    ..
    aber
    ight
    Masai
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    I’
    ll
    tel
    lher
    ..
    .oshapwena
    Moer
    a:y
    eahi
    m get
    ti
    ngusedt
    ost
    ayi
    ngal
    one
    Hi
    lls:
    whydon’
    tyouapol
    ogi
    zet
    oMasai
    andf
    ix
    t
    hingswi
    thhermaraMoera
    Moer
    a:i
    mfi
    newi
    tht
    hewayt
    hingsar
    eHi
    l
    ls
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    real
    l
    yMo
    Moera:yeah.
    ..
    lookIgot
    tagoi
    twasni
    cehear
    ing
    yourvoi
    ce
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mo.
    ..
    *
    **Moer
    adr
    oppedt
    hecal
    l
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hai
    Igi
    veupshem
    *
    **shesai
    dtoher
    sel
    f**
    *
    Mpande:
    canwet
    alk
    *
    **shegotst
    art
    ledbyhi
    m**
    *
    Hil
    ls:haemanMpande.
    ..
    .y
    ounear
    lygav
    emea
    heartatt
    ack
    *
    **shesai
    dthatwi
    thherhandonherchest
    ***
    Mpande:
    canwet
    alk
    **
    *hehadaser
    iousl
    ookonhi
    sfaceandshe
    si
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    iml
    i
    steni
    ng
    *
    **hel
    ookedatherf
    orawhi
    l
    e**
    *
    Mpande:i
    minlovewit
    hyou
    Nt
    abeni.
    ..
    ngi
    yakut
    handa(Il
    ovey
    ou)
    *
    **shel
    ookedathi
    m sur
    pri
    sed*
    **
    Mpande:
    im deadser
    iousNt
    abeni
    *
    **sheswal
    l
    owedl
    ooki
    ngdown*
    **
    Mpande:
    wit
    hwhathappened.
    ..
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    Ihav
    easexual
    traumany
    anawi
    thpl
    us
    si
    zewomen
    *
    **hebr
    ushedhi
    sheadt
    henhesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:ithappenedwi
    thanexofmi
    neshe
    wasaplussizewoman..
    ..
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande: wewer ebusyhav ingf oreplayandI
    went .
    ..
    downonherandasIwasbusyi kept
    touchingsomet hingwi t
    hmyt ongueonher
    entrance...
    .ikeptl i
    ckingandsucki ngyabona
    andIkeptt ouchi ngthatthingwi t
    hmyt ongue
    soIdeci dedt ocheckwhati twasbyput ti
    ngmy
    fi
    ngeri nandIcoul dfeelukuthiitsnother
    momozi thatislikethat,there’
    sact ual
    ly
    somet hingint heresoIpul l
    edi tof fwit
    hmy
    fi
    ngerandguesswhat ..
    ..
    *
    **hesi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    eishmamas..
    ..
    itwasi
    khondomu(a
    condom)
    ..
    ..andi
    tst
    il
    lhadsomesemeninsi
    de
    **
    * hemadeadisgust
    ingl
    ookonhi
    sface.
    ..
    Hil
    l
    s’
    eyespoppedout*
    **
    Mpande:itwasnotmi necausewedi dn’
    tuse
    i
    khondomu. .
    .soIwasbasi call
    ybusy
    ngi
    khothananekhondomuy omunyeumunt u
    namasimbaakhest i
    ll
    insi
    deofit.
    ..(soIwas
    basi
    cal
    lybusylickinganotherper
    son’scondom
    wit
    hhissh*tsti
    llinsi
    deofi t
    )
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    oohmygosh
    *
    **sheputherhandonhermout
    h**
    *
    Mpande:
    ngahl
    anza(Iv
    omi
    ted)ont
    opofher
    Nt
    abeni
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    oohnoy
    oudi
    dn’
    tMpande
    Mpande:ngakhi
    pakonkeukudl
    anotshwal
    a
    bonke(Ivomitedoutal
    lthef
    oodandthebeerI
    drank)
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    oohmygosh.
    ..
    Mpande:
    Iki
    ckedheroutandbl
    ockedher
    every
    wher
    e..
    ..si
    ncethenInev erdat
    edapl
    us
    si
    zewomancauset heyremindmeofthat
    cheati
    ngf
    a..
    ..thatcheat
    inga$$
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wow
    Mpande:but.
    ..
    .imetyouandIf el
    lhar
    dfor
    you..
    ..
    idi
    dn’
    tthi
    nkIstil
    lhadthatphobi
    aunti
    l
    l
    astnight
    ..
    ..
    soitwasn’tyoui
    twasmeand
    my .
    ..
    tr
    aumamamas
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    theni
    tmeansi
    twon’
    twor
    kMpande
    Mpande:ungashokanj
    aloNt
    abeni
    (don’
    tsay
    t
    hatNtabeni
    )
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    it’
    sthet
    rut
    hwebot
    hmustf
    ace
    Mpande:no...
    .l
    ookt hatwhol escenecaughtme
    offguar
    dmamas. .
    .andi t’
    snotjustpl
    usside
    womenIcan’ tgodownonbuti t’
    sall
    women
    fr
    om all
    sizes..
    ..i
    t’
    sj ustthatit
    saplussize
    womant hatgav emet hattr
    auma
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Mpande:
    Iwannat
    ryagai
    n
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    nope
    *
    **shesai
    dshaki
    ngherheadno*
    **
    Mpande:
    Iwantust
    otr
    yagai
    nNt
    abeni
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpande.
    ..
    haah
    *
    **hegotcl
    oser
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Mpan.
    ..
    **
    *hesmashedhi
    sli
    psonher
    sandt
    hey
    ki
    ssed*
    **

    _
    ___

    ATTHEBUSDEPOT

    *
    **Tshi
    moi
    ssi
    tt
    ingi
    nsi
    det
    hebuswai
    ti
    ngf
    ori
    t
    tobefullwhenshesuddenl yf eelssome
    crampsonherl owerabdomi nal areaandshe
    groansabi t
    ..
    ..shefeel
    ssomet hi
    ngcomi ngout
    ofhernunuandsheknewi tsei t
    herdischargeor
    peri
    odsbuti fitsherperi
    odst hent heyareway
    tooearl
    y .
    ..
    shesuddenl yhadtheedget opray
    andshej ustclosedhereyesandsai dashor t
    sil
    entprayer,sheprayedforasaf etri
    pback
    homeandf orforgi
    venessforwhatshedi dwi t
    h
    Alphal
    ette.
    ..
    .
    Wel l
    earli
    ershedi df i
    ndGaza’ssist
    erSophie
    andshel iedt oherthatsomethingcameupand
    sheneedst oleaveasap...
    .Sheli
    edagainand
    toldherthatshet ri
    edGaza’ sphonebuthe’snot
    picki
    ngupbutshesendhi m amessage. ..
    They
    tri
    edtoconv i
    ncehert ostaybutshet ol
    dthem
    i
    t’saf amilyemer gencysoshel ef
    taftersayi
    ng
    hergoodby esandluckil
    yshef oundspaceon
    thebusandi twasl eavi
    nginanhour s’ti
    me..
    ..
    Anywayshegotupandwentt othet
    oilet...
    she
    checkedherselfandshesawdr opsofbl oodon
    herunderwear.
    ...
    Shesighedandsher eached
    i
    nsideherbagandt ookoutapant yl
    inerand
    tamponandsheputi nt hetamponandpl aced
    thepantyli
    neronherunderwearandshewor eit
    again.
    ..
    .shefl
    ushedandwashedherhandsand
    shebendabi tasanothercramppainhi ther***
    Tshi
    mo:
    eish
    ***shebr eathedoutr ubbingherabdomi nalarea
    andshepi ckedherbagupandshewal ked
    out..
    .shewentt ohersi tandshesatdown. .
    .she
    tookoutpai nkil
    ler
    si nsideherbagandshe
    drankt woatonegoanddr ankthesprit
    eshe
    boughtt henshesatbackandputherphoneon
    fl
    ightmodet henshecl osedhereyesand
    waitedf orthepainful crampsshe’sfeeli
    ngto
    subside* **
    _
    ___

    *
    **Gazawokeupt
    oMammonscr
    eami
    ng*
    **
    Mammon:
    “nooooo”
    Gaza:
    stopi
    tdamni
    t!
    !!
    *
    **hesai
    dhol
    dinghi
    shead*
    **
    Mammon:
    thebaby
    ..
    ..
    mybaby
    Gaza:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    Mammon:
    she’
    sindanger
    ..
    .gogo.
    ..
    goandsav
    e
    her
    Gaza:
    whatar
    eyout
    alki
    ngabout
    Mammon: ourchi
    l
    d..
    ..
    herf
    ather
    ..
    ..
    he’
    saboutt
    o
    ki
    l
    lourbaby
    Gaza:
    Tshi
    mo?
    **
    *MammonkeptquietandGazasuddenl
    yfel
    t
    asenseofgr
    ief
    ***
    Gaza:
    demon?
    ??
    *
    **si
    l
    ence*
    **
    Gaza:
    Mammon
    ***
    sti
    l
    lsil
    ence.
    ..
    .t
    hesenseofgri
    efgotwor
    se
    andworseandhesuddenlyf
    eltemoti
    onal
    ***
    Gaza:
    whatt
    hehel
    li
    sgoi
    ngon.
    ..
    .Mammont
    alk
    t
    ome
    Mammon:
    shel
    ostt
    hebaby
    Gaza:
    wha.
    ..
    .what
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thhi
    shear
    tbeat
    ingf
    ast
    ***
    Gaza:but.
    ..
    .buthowcanshebepr egnant.
    ..
    it
    takesfour
    teendaysforconcept
    ionto
    happen..
    ..
    howcanshel osethebabywhenit’
    s
    notevenababyy et
    Mammon: y
    ouf ool.
    ..
    .t
    hatwasahalfhumanhalf
    demon..
    ..
    that’
    samammonchi l
    d..
    ..
    things
    happendi
    fferentl
    y.
    ..
    ..
    thebabyi
    sevenbor non
    the6thmonthnotont he9t
    hmont hl i
    keful
    l
    bl
    ownhumans
    *
    **Gazaswal
    l
    owedhar
    d**
    *
    Mammon:
    mybaby
    ..
    ..
    *
    **hesai
    dwi
    thasadt
    one*
    **
    Mammon: justsoy
    ouknowIbl
    amey
    ouand
    yourbr
    other
    **
    *thenhewentbackl eav
    ingGazafeel
    i
    ng
    emotional
    ..
    ..
    thefeel
    ingwasgett
    ingmoreand
    moreintenseandheswallowedthehar
    dlump
    st
    uckonhi sthroat
    ***

    _
    ___

    I
    NSI
    DEMASAI
    ’
    SWARD

    ***
    Hil
    lsishol
    dingherhand,shej
    ustgotinsi
    de
    herwardandthedoctortol
    dherthatshe’
    s
    bei
    ngadmi
    ttedsotheymoni
    torherf
    ort
    her
    est
    oft
    hedayandnight
    ***
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    don’
    tscar
    emel
    i
    ket
    hatMasa
    *
    **Masai
    sighed*
    **
    Masai
    :im gl
    adGazabr oughtmehere.
    ...
    doyou
    knowIhadtheheadachesincelastni
    ghtand
    notev
    enoncedidIthinkofgett
    inghelp**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    whathappened
    *
    **Masai
    swal
    l
    owed*
    **
    Masai
    :ahhst
    resssi
    s
    Hi
    ll
    s:don’tl
    i
    etomeMasai
    ..
    ..
    isawAl
    phal
    ett
    e’s
    br
    uisedface
    **
    * shedi
    dhearnoiseear
    li
    eronbutshedi
    dn’
    t
    evencaretogolookwhatitwasabout
    ***
    Masai
    :whatdoy
    oumeanbr
    uisedf
    ace
    Hil
    l
    s:i
    tlookedl
    i
    kehewasinanint
    ensef
    ight
    andkamoMpandepunchedhi
    m whenhegot
    her
    e
    Masai
    :he’
    sher
    e
    *
    **sheaskedwithalowt
    oneandHi
    l
    lsnodded
    t
    henMasai si
    ghed*
    **
    Masai:
    wehadaf
    ightandI
    m notr
    eadyt
    otal
    k
    abouti
    tyet
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    didhehi
    tyou
    *
    **Masai
    frowned*
    **
    Masai
    :no
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai:i
    m notr
    eadytot
    alkabouti
    tsi
    splease
    under
    standbutIwi
    ll
    tel
    lyouwhenimready
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lssi
    ghed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    didhecheat
    Masai
    :yhoHi
    l
    lsbat
    hong
    Hi
    l
    ls:kengi
    m worr
    ied.
    ..
    .mamai sonherway
    wi
    thsisVeesoIneedtotel
    lthem somet
    hing
    Masai
    :youcal
    l
    edmama
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    yeah
    *
    **Masai
    sighed*
    **
    Masai
    :mar
    aShal
    e
    Hil
    ls:yhonnaakebat
    legor
    ugiwaMasai
    (yhoI
    don’twanttobeswor
    eatMasai)
    Masai
    :mxm
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    any
    waywher
    eismygi
    ft
    edboy
    Masai
    :youmeanNy
    iko’
    stwi
    n
    *
    **Hi
    l
    lsl
    aughed*
    **
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    shamehe’
    shappyt
    ohav
    eabr
    otherneh
    Masai
    :mmmmh
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai
    :Idon’
    tthi
    nkAl
    phal
    ett
    e’smot
    herl
    i
    kesme
    any
    mor
    e..
    .shewassocol
    dtowar
    dsme
    **
    *shesai
    dasshefel
    tsleepy.
    ..
    themedi
    cat
    ion
    wasstar
    ti
    ngt
    okickinnow* *
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    what
    *
    **Masai
    nodded*
    **
    Masai:mmmmh...buti
    nawayIunderstand
    her
    ..
    ..
    imeanIwentfrom onebr
    othert
    oanother
    so.
    ..
    *
    **sheshr
    ughershoul
    der
    s**
    *
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    mxm ay
    ekwa
    *
    **Masai
    smi
    l
    edabi
    t**
    *
    Masai
    :Idon’
    tthi
    nkwewi
    l
    lwor
    kout
    ..
    .meand
    Al
    phal
    ett
    e
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    wooh.
    ..
    .what
    *
    **Masai
    nodded*
    **
    Masai
    :butwewi
    l
    lco-
    par
    entpeacef
    ull
    y.
    ..
    ihope
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    Masawhat
    sgoi
    ngon
    *
    **sheaskedwi
    thaser
    iousl
    ookonherf
    ace*
    **
    Masai
    :i
    m notr
    eadyt
    otal
    kabouti
    t.
    ..
    .
    *
    **shesi
    ghed*
    **
    Masai:IwanttocheckuponKhai marai
    m
    afr
    aidofcall
    i
    ngAlpha’smother
    ..
    ..
    canyoucal
    l
    herformeandchecki fhe’
    sok.
    ..
    hernumbers
    areinmyphone
    ***
    Hil
    lsl
    ookedathert
    henshesighedandshe
    noddedasshecl
    osedhereyesandshelet
    sl
    eeptakeover***

    _
    ___

    ATTHEMABUNDAHOMESTEAD

    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    isheanswer
    inghi
    sphone
    Sophi
    e:nomabutbhut
    Gazadi
    danswermycal
    l
    buthedidn’twantmetoev
    enmention
    bhut’
    Ntsako’sname.
    ..
    hewasaski
    ngabout
    Tshi
    mo
    *
    **Mr
    sRei
    nekesi
    ghed*
    **
    Sophi
    e:Iwonderwhatt
    heywer
    efi
    ght
    ingabout
    MrsReineke:Ihopei
    tsnotbecauseofthatsi
    l
    ly
    gi
    rlMasai.
    ..
    .movingf
    rom onebrothert
    othe
    ot
    her
    Sophi
    e:what
    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    she’
    sSt
    evensext
    hatonemxm
    Sophi
    e:Maar
    eyouser
    ious
    Mr sRei
    neke:heev enwantedtomarryherbut
    shesawNt sakoandr anawayleavi
    ngmyson
    Stevenshear
    tbroken..
    ..
    kanti
    shehasababy
    withNtsako.
    ..
    iswearshe’sheretor
    uinmy
    familyt
    hatgir
    lnxa
    Sophi
    e:yhoIthoughtshe’
    squi
    etkhant
    eshe’
    s
    hi
    dingbotsot
    sifel
    a
    Mr sReineke:lemmagaewagophapha
    nxa..
    ..
    shebet terl
    eav
    eandnevercomeback
    again.
    ..
    Nt sakoandGazahavebeenclosesince
    theywer ebabiessoshebet
    ternothavetr
    ied
    hersh*tagai n
    Evel
    yn:
    butabut
    iGazawast
    heoneangr
    yat
    abut
    iNtsakoma
    Mr sReineke:shetur
    nedmysonsagainsteach
    other.
    ..
    .theywerecivi
    lagai
    nsteachot
    heraf
    ter
    whatHel gadidandshecameal ongandshe
    becameHel ga2.0nxa
    *
    **t
    hesi
    ster
    slaughed*
    **
    Sophi
    e:y
    homar
    ama
    MrsRei
    neke:i
    m nothappywi thherrelat
    ionshi
    p
    wi
    thNtsako.
    ..
    .hedeservesbett
    erafterwhathe
    wentt
    hroughwithHelga..
    .hecanthaveHel ga
    2.
    0
    ***
    Ev ely
    njustkeptqui
    etwhi
    leSophi
    enodded
    agreeingwit
    hheraunt..
    ..
    MrsRei
    neke’
    sphone
    rangandshedidn’
    trecogni
    zet
    henumber
    sbut
    sheansweredanyway***
    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    hel
    l
    o
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    hel
    l
    oist
    hisAl
    phal
    ett
    e’smot
    her
    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    whowant
    stoknow
    ***
    Hill
    srol
    l
    edherey
    es.
    ..
    .shei
    nst
    ant
    lydi
    dn’
    tli
    ke
    her*
    **
    Hil
    l
    s:youaretal
    kingt
    oHil
    ls.
    ..
    Masai
    ’s
    si
    ster
    ..
    ..
    im wi
    thMasaiher
    eandshe’snotwel
    l
    soIwascheckinguponKhai.
    ..
    imeanAJforher
    MrsRei
    neke:
    he’
    spl
    ayi
    ngwi
    thhi
    sbr
    other
    ..
    .he’
    s
    ok
    Hi
    l
    ls:
    oohok
    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    alr
    ightby
    eby
    e
    *
    **shedr
    oppedt
    hecal
    landshecli
    ckedher
    t
    onguesodidHi
    l
    lsont
    heotherendofthe
    l
    i
    ne***
    MrsReineke:
    asi
    fI’
    l
    lletany
    thi
    nghappent
    omy
    gr
    andson
    Sophi
    e:y
    hoitlooksl
    i
    kethesepeopl
    ebr
    ought
    probl
    emsinourfami
    ly
    Mr
    sRei
    neke:
    youcansayt
    hatagai
    n

    _
    ___

    ***Gazahasbeentry
    ingTshimo’snumber sand
    theyarenotgoi
    ngthr
    ough.
    ..
    .hedoesn’teven
    knowwher etol
    ookforher
    ..
    .buthequickly
    rememberedthebusdepotandhest art
    edt he
    caranddroveoutoft
    hehospital
    ***
    .
    .
    .
    *
    **Thebusi
    snowont
    her
    oadandt
    hecr
    amps
    aresti
    llhit
    ti
    ngherhar d.
    ..shestandsupand
    goestot hetoiletagainwi t
    hherhandbagi n
    hand..
    ..
    Sheget st hereandshepul l
    sherundi es
    downandt hepant yl
    inerisf ul
    lofbl ood...
    she
    pull
    soutt hetamponandi tsalsof ull.
    ..
    .lotsof
    bloodclotscomesoutandshesi ghs...
    .allofa
    suddenlyaf eelingofgrieftakesov erher .
    ..
    .She
    wonderswhyherear l
    yper iodsarel ikethis
    causeshenev erhasheav yperiodswi t
    hbl ood
    cl
    ot sl
    i
    ket his***
    Tshi
    mo: Ican’
    tbepregnant
    ..
    .ij
    usthadsext
    wo
    daysagoforthefi
    rstt
    imeinmont hs
    ***shesaidtoherselfasshedismissesthe
    thought.
    ..
    .shecleansherself
    ,changesthe
    pantyli
    nerandputi nanothertamponandshe
    fl
    ushesthenshewashesherhandsandgoes
    backtoherseat***
    .
    .
    .
    ***Gazagottothebusdepotandhequi ckl ygot
    outofhiscarlockingitandher ushedt othe
    securi
    tyman...
    Heaskedt hesecurit
    ymani ft
    he
    i
    sabust hathasal readyleftthedepotandhe
    confir
    meditleftar ound20t o30mi nutes
    ago..
    ..
    hestoodt herelooki
    ngar oundhopi nghe
    spotsherbuthedoesn’ tspotherany wher e..
    .He
    thankedthesecuritymanandhewal kedback
    tohiscartr
    yinghernumber sagainbutt hey
    didn’
    tgothrough...
    ...
    ri
    ghtthenhisphoner ang
    anditwashissister *
    **
    Gaza:
    SophSoph
    Sophie:bhutul
    ekwini(wher
    ear
    eyou)
    ..
    ..
    you
    shouldbegetti
    ngreadybynowandwherei
    s
    bhutNtsako
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    doIneedt
    ocomet
    othepar
    ty
    Sophi
    e:y
    ouwon’
    tdomel
    i
    ket
    hatbhut
    i.
    ..
    ..
    thi
    s
    part
    yisforyouandpeoplehavestart
    edto
    arr
    ive.
    ..
    .thecat
    eri
    ngpeoplehavebroughtf
    ood
    andaredonewi t
    hdecorat
    ingthet
    ent
    *
    **Gazasi
    ghed*
    **
    Gaza:
    fineI
    ’
    llbet
    her
    e
    Sophi
    e:whataboutbhut
    Ntsako
    **
    *Gazajustdroppedthecal
    landheunlocked
    hi
    scarandhegoti nandhestart
    editanddrove
    of
    fweari
    nghi ssafet
    ybelt
    ***

    _
    ___

    ATANUNDI
    SCLOSEDLOCATI
    ON
    Ol
    dman:
    wewilll
    etherstopbl
    eedi
    ngf
    ir
    stand
    wewi
    l
    lst
    artwi
    thourplans
    Wei
    rdguy
    :yesy
    esbaba
    Ol
    dman:
    takeof
    fthoseneedl
    eswear
    enot
    t
    ryi
    ngt
    oki
    l
    lherMahl
    abahl
    abane
    Hl
    abane:
    yesy
    esbaba
    ***
    het ookofft
    hoseneedl
    esont
    hedol
    landhe
    putitaway**
    *
    .
    .
    .
    I
    NSI
    DETHEBUS

    **
    *Tshi
    mo’spai
    nful
    crampsst
    oppedandshe
    si
    ghedrel
    axi
    ng*
    **
    .
    .
    .
    TWOWEEKSLATER.
    ..
    ..
    .
    .
    TOBECONTI
    NUED.
    ..
    .
    #TO-
    DARE-
    IS-
    TO-
    DO

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