Deadline

by Zaheera Walker

  More hands shots up.

  “Unfortunately, I have to end this meeting now. My officer just informed me that another body was found this morning. Time is running out. We have to work fast while you work smart.” The meeting was closed.

  ***

  Fear flowed through her veins. The killer was dumping his prey on Feriyal’s doorstep. In Phoenix. She was Indian. She was alone in her flat, with nobody to protect her.

  She shivered like jelly. Her fingers trembled as she punched in a message on her phone. The airtime was running low. She had to reload.

  Again. The extra money could be what she needed to feel safe.

  Need to see you. Now please. Serial killer update. I need you, Shane.

  She pushed ‘send’ and waited. There was no response. Was he another one to let her down?

  Feriyal traced her way to the Durban Magistrates Court. It was a stone’s throw from where the meeting had just ended; an opportunity to touch base with the friends she had met during her court reporting days.

  The security guards positioned at the entrance to the court waved her in. They remembered her like a clear day, because she spoke to them.

  She made them feel important. They broke bread together at lunch time and drank Fanta Orange from a onelitre bottle; no airs; no graces.

  Two of her favourite magistrates had resigned a week before. Other staff members were on leave or serving their roles while court was in session. There was nothing to keep her there anymore. The phone buzzed in her pocket. She had set it this way to alert her about an incoming call. Then the melody came on. Her index finger pushed the green button. “Hello. Feriyal speaking.”

  “Hey you. What’s going on? I was in a meeting with our board members. Sorry I couldn’t take your call. Where are you now?”

  “I’m at the Magistrates Court. Hoped to see some of my friends, but no such luck. The briefing session ended about thirty minutes ago. It was hectic. Hectic for me.”

  “Yes, I heard. Wait where you are. I’ll be there in ten minutes. We need to talk.”

  To feel safe, she sat waiting on a bench in the courthouse gardens. She wrote something in her diary. This helped to relax her a bit.

  The power engine of a race car was approaching. It was him. She just knew it.

  He pulled up alongside her; a brave knight; dashing and daring; courageous and caring. She had to stop. It reminded her of the Gummi Bears song.

  Shane emerged from his red Lamborghini Gallardo. Suave, just like him. He removed his sunglasses. She took it all in and played it back in slow motion. She wanted him, now more than ever. He could keep her safe from the serial killer… but she didn’t want to mix business andpleasure.

  They hugged. He kissed her lips. A light kiss. Something happened to Feriyal when his hungry lips touched her. Her lips became glue.

  Two lips sealed together. Her lips parted and invited him to explore her mouth. Innocent tongues locked together, dancing like animals enclosed in fiery mouths. She broke away first.

  “Sorry. Sorry. I don’t know what happened. I got carried away.”

  Feriyal felt like her chance of loving a man like Shane was blown away. Why had she come on so strong?

  “Well, I’m not sorry. Do you have any idea how difficult it is for me to take it one step at a time with you? I want you. I don’t want to wait forever. I want you to want me too.” He opened the passenger door and watched her move gracefully into her seat.

  They drove to the Blue Lagoon a short distance away. It was the spot where lovers spread their blankets and fishermen cast lines into the sea; a spot where memories were made, meat was braaied and hawkers traded.

  He switched off the engine. His gaze turned to take in her radiance. The hunger for her love grew within him. “What’s on your mind? Why are you troubled? Is it the assignment?”

  Shane made time to see her. He didn’t have to. With his looks and charm, he could have any woman he desired. She had to give something back. Her small hands reached for his. “I’m scared. After my mother passed away, I’ve been alone. And now the killer is using my neighbourhood as his dumping ground. I’m not backing down from the assignment we spoke about. But who is going to hear my screams

  late at night if I was to become one of his victims?”

  “Yes, I heard about that from my reporter. I wanted to talk to you about it. There are two things I can offer you. The first is to move you into a hotel so you don’t have to feel alone. The second is to invite you to move in with me. I have a big bed to share with you.” He was teasing. Wasn’t he?

  “If that won’t work, there’s a guest room until you feel comfortable with me.” He hoped she would settle for the latter. He didn’t want to ruin anything.

  She turned away to take in the calming sea. From the corner of her eye, she saw the silhouette of Addington Hospital. Her heart grew heavy.

  “See the brown building in the distance. The tall one. That is where my mother went for her chemotherapy. A poor, simple woman without medical aid. She travelled by bus.” She wanted to explain who she was before accepting his offer. “We didn’t have material wealth, but she gave me love. She raised me to be the person I am today. On her own, because my father was murdered. I don’t have much to offer you. Do you still feel the same way about me?”

  She felt the pressure of his squeeze on her hands. “I’m not looking for a high-class woman. I want someone who is down to earth. Someone I respect and love. My parents, too, had a tough life. We worked for what we have in our lives. I know where you are coming from. Give it a chance. Give us a chance.”

  She could picture her mother clapping. Encore. Encore. Her daughter who did not believe in love was with her prince now; a man just like her father.

  “I’ll stay with you. Thank you for offering.”

  Shane was making headway. He offered to drive her to Phoenix to fetch clothes and toiletries, and say goodbye to neighbours. Feriyal agreed.

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  As the Lamborghini roared up the road to her flat, Feriyal cringed in fear… and some embarrassment too.

  What would the neighbours think? Would he still feel the same when he saw how the other half lived? It was too late to question the decision. The car pulled to a halt outside the flat.

  “Well. This is where I grew up. It’s not much, but it’s my castle. You can leave if you feel uneasy. I will understand.” She emerged from the car and waved to the people ogling this prized picture.

  “Not a chance. I couldn’t care if you were raised in a squatter camp. I’m not letting you slip away from me,” Shane reassured her.

  They made their way up to the flat. Not yet a couple. Not strangers either.

  “Behind this door is the story of my life. You knew the fearless reporter. Now you will see the real person.” The key turned.

  “Hey, there’s no reason to feel ashamed. Material wealth doesn’t define anybody’s character. I like you for who you are. Not what you have.”

  He smothered her in a bear hug, right there in the middle of the lounge; the one that lacked the interior decorator’s touch.

  “Take a seat. I’ll make some tea. Or do you prefer coffee?”

  “I’d rather have you,” he teased. “But coffee will do for now.”

  Does he know what happens when he says all the right words? Will this be a Cinderella fairy tale?

  Hands worked fast in the kitchen. The kettle whistled. A silver tray supported two mugs of coffee and a plate of Romany Creams. Her favourites; a chocolate-flavoured crunch treat.

  “Thanks.” Shane reached for his mug. “Come sit beside me. I won’t bite unless you want me...” His voice trailed off when he heard a knock at the door.

  “Salaams, Aunty. Come inside.” Feriyal invited the greyhaired woman into the lounge. She wanted to introduce her to Shane. The neighbour had become a pillar of strength when her mother had passed away. “Would you like some coffee?”

  The old lady scanned the strange white man throug
h laser eyes. Like a detective. “Wasalaam. I just had tea with the children. But thanks for offering. Haven’t seen you much these days. Are you okay?”

  “Just fine, Aunty. Meet my colleague. Shane Black. I am helping him with some of his reporting. We just came by to fetch some clothes. I’ll be staying close to the office so I can start work early. Travelling won’t be too difficult.”

  “Nice to meet you, Mr Shane Black. I’m Mrs Amod. Lived next door to Feriyal for years. Sweet girl. Like a daughter to me.” She caressed Feriyal’s cheek.

  “The pleasure is mine, ma’am.” He reached out and shook her hand.

  “Anyway, better get going. Can’t leave the grandchildren alone for too long. Leave me a forwarding number. Just in case.”

  Feriyal nodded. “I still have my cell phone number.” She scribbled on a piece of paper. “Here it is again. If you need to reach me.”

  The old lady limped back to her flat, relieved that the strange man was someone Feriyal knew.

  Alone. They were alone again. Nervous and excited. Too scared to make the wrong move. Too scared to drive the other one away.

  “Let me help you pack. Where should I start?” He wanted to have her settled in his place.

  “Not so quick. Can we talk about how this is going to work? What is expected of me? How much rent do I pay? Chores? Just letting you know that I hate being in the kitchen.”

  “You are my guest. There is no such thing as rent. I want you to be comfortable. If it means you sleeping in the guest room, so be it. We’ll decide how things will work once you’re there.”

  Feriyal was relieved to know she did not have to contribute towards payment. Money was not rolling into her bank account. “Finish your coffee. I’ll just be a few minutes. There isn’t much to pack.”

  ***

  Shane lived in a penthouse nestled in the heart of Greyville. Everything inside fit like a puzzle; like in a Top Billing magazine. Feriyal was bowled over. Such extravagance.

  “Your home is beautiful. You have excellent taste.

  Thanks for having me here.” She struggled to look relaxed; felt like a princess lost in a big castle.

  “Thanks, babe. Think of it as your home. Maybe you can add your feminine touch to things.” He inched towards her. “Come. Let me show you around. Let’s leave your stuff in your room first.”

  “I don’t know how to thank you. You’ve been very kind to me. I appreciate it.”

  “You’re an incredible woman, Feriyal. You make me feel special whenever I’m with you. That is enough for me.” He led her into the guest room. Bright, big and beautiful.

  She gasped. “This is bigger than my entire flat. Wish my mother was here to see this.” Like a flash, she whipped away to wipe that first tear.

  “Don’t cry, babe. Your mother is at peace in a better place. Watching you. She wouldn’t want you to feel sad.” His long finger stroked her cheek. “Why don’t you settle in while I prepare supper?”

  It took less than twenty minutes. “All done. Can I help you with anything?”

  She was amazed to see him in an apron. Master chef in action.

  “Everything under control. I’m making a seafood pasta. I remembered you are only allowed to eat halaal. I went with the safer option.”

  He had really done his homework.

  “Thank you for being so considerate. I haven’t eaten seafood pasta before. This is going to be an experience.”

  Shane set the table for two. He left the wine out and settled for still water. “Let’s eat. I’m famished.”

  “Mmm... this is divine. You certainly know your spices. There’s a subtle taste of chilli flakes and black pepper. Oh, the cream too.” She licked her lips and forked more linguine into her mouth. “This is sooo good. I could learn a lot from you.”

  “Thanks, babe. Stay with me forever and I’ll do something new each time.”

  “You’ll soon grow tired of me.” She giggled and flicked hair from her eyes. “If I can help it, I avoid the kitchen at all costs. Are you keen to feed me each night?”

  “Lucky for you, I enjoy cooking. It’s soothing to experiment in the kitchen. Don’t follow recipes, I’m afraid; just go with the flavours I am trying to achieve.”

  That first supper was magic. Like a first date of sorts. The first of many.

  “I’ll help you clear the table. You wash and I’ll dry. I can’t stand washing dishes. Always hated it. Always. Greased pots and pans. Knives and forks that slip from your hand. No. Thank. You. Think I’ll pass on that.”

  “How did you survive in an Indian community, then? You don’t like cooking. Don’t like doing dishes either. Well, babe. You don’t have to stress about our meals. Like I said, I’m at ease in the kitchen. As for washing dishes. It’s sorted too. There’s a dishwasher.”

  The wonders of a rich life. “Glad to hear that. Thank you again.” She kissed him on the cheek. He had gone out of his way for her. One kiss wasn’t going to hurt anyone.

  ***

  Night time in a strange place kept her awake. Tucked under cool sheets in the guest room, she scanned the darkness. He was asleep down the passage. Shane Black. The man who made her feel cotton candy beautiful.

  Feriyal could hear his deep breathing. She wanted to lie with him, but was too tired to move and had nervous flutters in her stomach.

  “Babe. Are you awake? I’m restless. Just can’t seem to drift off. Too scared you won’t be here when I awake. I can’t stop thinking about you. Would you mind if I slipped in next to you?”

  “That makes two of us. I can’t sleep either.” White starched sheets creased back. “Lie with me. I trust you. Don’t know if I can trust myself.”

  She rolled onto her side. He spooned in behind her. A large hand slipped across her waist. His manhood hardened. She felt it. Different and delicious all in one. The private place between her legs – the one she was saving for her wedding night – was on fire. Could she risk it?

  “Please. This is crazy. I know. I want you. I know you want me too.

  Take me tonight. Make me feel like a woman.”

  Feriyal’s body thrashed about. The pleasure of the unknown drove her to the edge. Shane was in heaven. To see her this way was the ultimate pleasure.

  “I want you, babe. You’re making me wild. I don’t want to hurt you. Are you sure?”

  “Now. Take. Me. Now.” She tore off the night shirt, pinched her hard nipples and threw back her head. Virgin legs separated, inviting him inside.

  “Oh, babe. You have no idea how long I waited for this.” He kissed the inside of her thighs; nuzzled her belly button. He buried his head between her breasts, moulding them with his hands, and kissed her deeply. Then it happened. He snaked into her. Tearing into her pureness. Flooding her with a sea of pleasure.

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  His cell phone danced on the pedestal. He rolled over and punched the snooze button. It was 6am. Time to start a new day.

  “Hey, babe. Did you sleep well?” He poured coffee into a mug. “Here. Drink this. It will wake you up a bit.”

  “Thanks. Last night was different. A new bed. New room. I’ll grow into it.” How can he behave this way after last night? Did the love-making not mean anything to him?

  “I know it was different. You snored for most of the night!” He chuckled a bit. “Had to sleep with my head buried under my pillow!”

  “Don’t lie. I never snore.” She sipped her coffee and moved away to disguise her embarrassment.

  Shane folded the newspaper. His gaze landed on her petite frame. “I promise to make a recording of it the next time. It wasn’t that bad, you know. More like deep breathing.” What should he make for breakfast?

  He rummaged through the cupboard searching for ideas. “I slept like a log. It has been rather hectic these past few weeks.”

  “I must have fallen asleep at some stage. It felt so good to sleep through the night.” Now she understood. Their bodies grinding together. Twisting and turning. It had all been a
dream.

  “Are you going to be fine all by your lonesome today? I’ll be going to the office in a few minutes. Make yourself at home.” He sipped his coffee.

  “I’ll call you later. There might be a chance I will need you to fill in for someone. The newsroom is short-staffed and I could do with a fresh pair of hands.”

  “You don’t have to ask again. I’ll do it. The least I can do to repay you for everything.”

  “Great. I’ll chat with you in a bit.” He planted a kiss on her head. “I’m glad you are closer to me. I like you, babe. You’ll never understand how scared it makes me feel at times.” He grabbed his briefcase and rushed out of the door, afraid of pushing her away.

  ***

  True as steel, Shane buzzed Feriyal’s cell phone. It was mid-morning; deadline was over. The paper was put to bed.

  “Hi. Guess I spoke too soon. Can you come in today? I could do with some assistance.”

  “Yes. Be there within the hour. Thanks for thinking about me. I won’t disappoint you.” She hung up and raced to slip on her faded denims. A reporter’s uniform. The scruff look. She boarded a direct bus to the office. The convenience of living in the city; hassle-free and within walking distance to most places.

  “That was quick. Nice to have you here early. I’m down two people and my main reporter is on leave. There are a few things I’d like you to look into for me. I need copy for the next edition. Grab a chair.”

  Feriyal pulled out her signature notepad. “I’m ready when you are.”

  “You’re a star. Thanks for helping out. I have sufficient material for tomorrow, but the day after is dry. See what you can do. I need a front page lead and right now there is nothing with potential.”

  “Got it. Leave it to me. I’ll call around and do some networking too.”

  Feriyal thought about Anne. A gold mine of information. The police report came through the fax at 2pm. Feriyal scanned the page with detective eyes. She stopped midway.

  A doctor was missing.

  There was nothing else.

  She dialled the police spokesman. A reliable man. Captain Vernon Johnson. “Hi. How are you? I’m looking at your report and see that a doctor has gone missing. Do you have anything I can go on?”