Deadline

by Zaheera Walker

  The trial has been set down for March next year.

  Similar stories made headlines in various newspapers both in Durban and abroad. Radio bulletins and TV stations also hung on every juicy detail they could find.

  ***

  “It has to be perfect. Nothing too elegant. Beautiful and simple. Just like my future bride.” Shane hit the power button on his laptop and clicked on a folder. “I’ll send you a picture of her. Just so you get an idea. Design something and send to me Monday afternoon.” He clasped his hands and leant back into his chair. “Finally, I am marrying my dream girl. Nothing can spoil this perfect moment.”

  A tap on his door rocked him out of his blissful state. “Mr Black, there was a call from Texas. The line was a bit faint and I am not sure if I have the correct name.” She stretched out her arm and leant across the desk. “There’s a number here. The man I spoke to didn’t

  say what it was about. Just that I should ask you to call.”

  “It could only be one person. My dad. He’s a crafty bugger. Probably heard via the grapevine that I am getting married.” His eyes glistened as he reached forward to pick up the receiver. “He’s been forcing me to settle down for a while now. Said he was getting too old and wanted to see his grandchildren. Well, now he’s going to be pleased.”

  “Oh... excuse me for a moment.” Charmaine shielded her tears from him and brushed it away with her sleeve. “I’m so happy that everything is coming together. Now you go ahead and tell him his wish will be granted in a few days.” She shut the door and went back to the wedding plans.

  Shane creased his forehead as he looked at the number. “Sure is a number in Texas, but it’s not Dad. Wonder what this could be about?”

  He punched in the numbers and waited to be connected. It took a while before someone picked up. “Hi. Finally, I get through. This is Shane Black calling from South Africa. I was asked to call this number,

  but I didn’t get the name of the person wanting to speak

  to me. Do you perhaps know what this could be about?”

  Silence. “You’ve come through to the Texas Rangers.”

  “Rangers as in police? I’m afraid there must be some mistake. I have nothing to do with the police service. My interest is in media.”

  “It’s no mistake, Mr Black. Hang on a minute, please. I’ll get my superior to speak to you.” He placed his hand over the mouthpiece and whispered to someone.

  “Good day, Mr Black. This is Patrol Officer Jimmy

  Johnson. Thank you for calling back so soon.”

  “That’s no problem. Can you tell me what this is about?”

  “There’s no easy way to say this. I’m afraid I have some bad news.”

  “Well… what is it?”

  “An elderly couple was killed in a car crash this morning. There’s no easy way to break the news, Mr Black. They were identified as Mr Douglas Black and Mrs Lizzie Black. We found your contact details in their possession.”

  “What?” His chair flew back as he pushed with all his strength to steady himself. “This must be some mistake. Mum and Dad dead? No. Maybe you should check again. In fact, Dad doesn’t drive because of his arthritis.”

  “There is no mistake, Mr Black. Passers-by who knew the couple identified the bodies and confirmed you were their only son. It turns out Mr Black’s driver did not turn up for duty today. That’s the reason he was behind the wheel.”

  Crash! A pile of papers and stationery fell to the floor. Shane swept them off his desk and punched the soft mahogany wood. “This can’t be happening. Why now?”

  “What’s happened, Mr Black? I heard a loud noise. Is everything okay?” Charmaine’s eyes ballooned with surprise.

  Shane Black had his eyes squeezed tight. The first tear rolled out and splashed off the desk.

  “It can’t be that bad, Mr Black. Feriyal’s back and you guys are getting married. Nothing can spoil that now.

  Can it?”

  “Everything has changed. I can’t get married. Please book the first flight out to Texas. My parents were killed in a crash. I have to go.” He looked hesitant, but there was no time to waste. “I’m leaving now. Will you tell Feriyal? Tell her I’m sorry.”

  ***

  “How did you manage to get away from your desk? Shane keeps youon your toes all the time.” Feriyal slid off the bed and stretched out her arms. “Come give me a hug!”

  Charmaine squeezed her tightly and stood back to look at her. “You are looking beautiful.”

  “I am over the moon, to be honest. The doctor just told me I can go home in the morning. Yippee!”

  How was she going to break the news? Feriyal was so happy and she deserved to be. “That’s wonderful.”

  “Where’s Shane? I have to tell him. Now we can finally put our heads together and plan a fairy tale wedding.”

  “That’s enough excitement for today, little lady. Get back into bed.” She patted the bed smooth and adjusted the pillows. “I’m afraid Shane isn’t coming to see you.”

  “Oh, he wouldn’t do that. He must be running late. Buying me more chocolates and flowers downstairs. Right?”

  “Mr Black is leaving for Texas tonight. He wanted me to tell you he is very sorry.”

  She gasped. “What? Why? He realised he doesn’t want to marry me anymore and now he wants to run.”

  “Oh, sweet Feriyal. It’s not like that at all.” She put her arms around her hunched frame. “He loves you so much, but he had to go.”

  “I don’t understand. We share everything. He never told me about this trip. It’s just an excuse to get away from everything. What do they call it? Wedding jitters or something.”

  “His parents were killed in a car crash. The police informed him a few hours ago. It was a huge shock. He couldn’t come here to tell you himself. There wasn’t enough time.”

  “Good heavens. I need to be with him! Don’t you see? He needs me now more than ever. How do I reach him?”

  “Let him do this on his own. He feels guilty about so much right now. He hadn’t spoken to them in a long time. Allow him to grieve and lay them to rest. He’ll call you when he’s ready.”

  ***

  Feriyal lay on her stomach and stared at the wall. She refused to eat and seldom sipped water left on the pedestal. It was her third day back home in the penthouse. It felt empty. Shane was not there.

  “Wakey, wakey. Someone wants to speak to you.”

  A hollow was growing in her stomach. Her heart raced and she grabbed the phone. “How are you holding up, love? I’m so sorry to hear about your parents. I know how much you loved them.”nHis voice cracked and he coughed to suppress the lump building innhis throat. “Babe, I’m so sorry I had to leave you like that. When I heard what happened, everything just stood still. I couldn’t think clearly.”

  “There’s no need to explain anything. I know what it felt like when my mum passed away.”

  “Thank you for being so patient. I wanted my mum and dad to meet you. They would have loved you so much. Dad wanted to see his grandchildren. He never got the chance.” Shane’s voice cracked.

  “I wanted to meet them too, but God had other plans.” She needed to change the topic, because she could sense he was sinking into the depths of sadness. “Is anyone helping you with the funeral arrangements?”

  “Yes. It’s all being taken care of. There’s a memorial service on Sunday. Mum and Dad requested that they be cremated and the ashes spread out at sea. They loved each other so much. I’m glad they died together.”

  “That type of love is rare and I pray that we are blessed to have that too. Is there anything I can do for you?”

  “Your arms around me are just what I need, but that will have to wait. All I ask is that you take care of yourself. Be there for me when I return. That should be enough.”

  “I’ll always be at your side. We’ve been through so much together. I want to grow old with you.”

  “Thank you for loving me. Babe, there’s just one mo
re thing. Dad’s estate has to be finalised. There’ll be loose ends to tie up here. I may be away for another month or so.”

  “Can’t you sort out things from here? Charmaine is here with me, but it’s not the same.”

  “It will be easier if I am in Texas. I know you need me because of the court case. Believe me, I want to be there for you too. With everything that has happened, I realise that I don’t want to waste any precious time. I want to get married as soon as I can.”

  “I’m so glad to hear you say that. When you left, I thought you had changed your mind.”

  “Not a chance. I can’t wait for you to be Mrs Black. I’ll try to quicken things up and come home soon. I have to go now. Love you.” The phone went dead.

  CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO

  Shane Black and Feriyal Adam would like you to witness the eternal commitment of their love...

  Date: 5 December 1997 Time: 10am

  Venue: Virginia Beach

  RSVP: charmaine.wicker@chimes.com

  “I can’t believe this is finally coming together. This is every girl’s dream and I am realising mine. Such a wonderful feeling to be getting married.”

  “Wait ’til you see your wedding gown. I took the liberty of consulting a designer before I left for Texas.” He scooped her up and twirled around the room.

  “You have good taste, no doubt about that, but I wanted to have a say in it. Why didn’t you ask me, Shane?” The colour ran from her face and she felt cheated.

  “We’re having our first premarital disagreement. How sweet!” He hugged her tightly. “I sneaked a peek at all the designs you’ve been sketching and stole a few ideas from there. Trust me, babe, you’re gonna love it.”

  “You little thief!” She stood on her tip toes and kissed him on the forehead.

  “We have to decide on the venue and the theme for our wedding. I would love to marry you on the beach. There’s just something romantic about it.”

  “I’m not keen on the salt spray ruining everything. My fairy tale dream is to take my vows in a garden.”

  “How about we combine the two?” He folded his arms and watched her trying to work out the setting.

  “That’s not going to work. We have to go with your idea or mine.”

  “When a man is in love, he will do whatever it takes to keep his woman happy. Just leave it to me.”

  ***

  She put a question mark next to ‘venue’ on the to-do list.

  “This is a bit awkward for me, but is this going to be a Christian wedding? I don’t mind which way we do it, but I would like to honour my mother, who raised me as a Muslim.”

  “It doesn’t matter to me, really. I suggest we combine the ceremonies and that will keep our dearly departed parents happy. Just one other thing.”

  “Anything. I’m just so happy right now I’m prepared to grant you any wish you desire.”

  He turned his back to her to hide his embarrassment. “You probably think this is a silly idea, but I always said I would to write my own vows. I want to say what’s in my heart.”

  “That is a beautiful thought. I think we should both write our vows.”

  Shane’s forehead creased. Something was on his mind. “Please excuse me for a bit. I need to make a call. In private.”

  “Can’t it wait? We’re discussing our wedding plans here!”

  “This is about the wedding. And there are some things you don’t need to know.” He slipped out onto the balcony and dialled Charmaine.

  “I have an idea for the venue. Now listen carefully.” He rolled the sliding door shut.

  Feriyal tried to eavesdrop, but the rustling of the leaves drowned out his voice. All she could see was his lips moving and his head nodding.

  ***

  The security buzzed Shane’s penthouse. “There’s a delivery for Miss Adam.”

  “Okay, send it up.” He searched for her in all the rooms. “Where are you hiding? There’s something for you. Come take a look.”

  “Be there in a minute. Just writing a few things I’d like to say to you on the day.”

  “That’s very sweet of you, babe, but this is something you would like to see.”

  The doorbell chimed.

  Shane pushed Feriyal in front. “Please get that. It’s for you.”

  A large box was carried in and placed on the dining table.

  “You’ll need to sign for it, please.” He handed her a file and scanned the apartment. “Smart place you have here, miss.”

  “Thank you, but it’s not mine.”

  “It will be after we marry.” Shane folded a R100 note and tucked it into the delivery guy’s pocket.

  “You’re very generous, sir. Thank you very much. Enjoy your day. I’ll see myself out.”

  “Well, aren’t you going to open it?” Shane was becoming impatient. If he could help it, he was ready to rip open the box.

  “Calm down. I’m doing it now.” Her fingers moved to the side and she felt around for a tapered bit. She tugged and peeled it back. There was another end to uncover.

  “Hurry up. This is taking too long. Cut it open with the knife!”

  “Okay, then. You do the honours.” She stood back and watched him slice into the top and see-saw the knife across.

  “There. It’s done. Now for you to lift the cover.”

  Feriyal raised the cover and strained to see what was inside. The bubble wrap came off first. She ripped off the paper tissue and threw it aside. “Oh. My. God!” She lifted it out of the box and her eyes flooded with tears. It was an off-the-shoulder gold silk fitted and flared gown with hints of sea green. There was a sequined coat to match if she didn’t want it to be too revealing. He thought of everything.

  “This is perfect. I love it. I’m gonna look like a princess on the day.”

  “I knew you were gonna love it. How do you feel about the colour? I didn’t want the standard white gown and thought this is going to look just right.”

  “It’s beautiful. Everything is just beautiful.”

  “Why don’t you try it on? I know it’s going to be a perfect fit, because I know your size right down to the tee.”

  “No chance of that. You’ll see me on the day. I don’t know if it’s true, but I’ve heard it’s bad luck if you see me wearing it before the big day.

  Or is it to see me before the day? Ah well, it doesn’t matter, because you will only see me all gowned up when I walk down the aisle. ”

  “I don’t know much about that. It sounds like an old housewives’ tale, but if it makes you feel better I’ll just have to sit tight and count the days.” He blew a kiss at her as she cradled the gown in her arms and headed for the bedroom.

  CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

  “Can I come in? Your personal assistant was going out, but she said it was okay to pop in.”

  “Captain Smith! What brings you here?” He walked over to the round table and suggested they both sit down.

  “I was just in the area and thought I should come see how you’re doing. I heard about your parents. My condolences to you.”

  “Thanks. It took me by surprise. There I was planning my wedding and next thing I hear my parents are dead.”

  “That’s life. We can’t predict what is going to happen. And speaking of life. How is Feriyal? Is she doing better after her ordeal?”

  “Very well. In fact, she is in her element with all the wedding plans.”

  “Aah yes. I received my invitation. Thank you very much for including me among your guests.”

  “It’s a pleasure. For all that you did when she went missing, it’s the least I can do for you.”

  “Now that I know you are both fine, I’d better be on my way. Give her my regards and keep well. I’ll see you on your big day.”

  “Before you leave, is there anything we should know about the case? Has anything new come up?”

  “At this stage, the investigators are putting together a tight case. Going through everything with a fine-tooth comb. We don’t want any
surprises when the trial gets underway. I don’t see it dragging on for too long, because Feriyal’s testimony is going to sink him.”

  ***

  “Well, let me speak to my priest and see if he can suggest something. I’m sure he’ll be able to pull a few strings and discuss it with the head of the mosque.”

  “That’s a wonderful idea, Charmaine. Maybe we could have a morning ceremony and then proceed with the actual wedding on the beach. What do you think?”

  “Don’t know about that, Mr Black. It might just be too exhausting for the guests and the joy of the day will be lost.”

  “Guess you are right. I didn’t think about it that way. Anyway, have you made any headway with the set-up at the venue?”

  “Yes. And it’s going to be out of this world.”

  “How about the catering? What have you decided to go with?” There was just so much on his plate that he barely had a moment to spend pondering the wedding plans.

  “Sorted as well. I’ve taken all tastes into consideration and the caterers will see to it that everyone will whet their appetites.”

  A wave of relief washed across his face. “So glad this is all coming together. I really wanted to be a part of this, but getting back to business after my absence has been hectic.

  Thank you so much for giving our wedding your full attention. I just want you to know Feriyal and I appreciate it.”

  “It’s a pleasure. Feels like I am planning my own wedding and every little detail is such a delight.”

  “If I am not being too personal, can I ask why you never married?” She sighed, because there was no point hiding it anymore. “I was married. Twice!”

  “I don’t believe this! Whatever happened?”

  “Life happened, I guess. My first husband did not allow me to make my own decisions. It was his way or the highway. Well, what do you know? I chose the freeway!” She giggled like a teenager and threw back her head. “My second husband was no better. He couldn’t share his feelings with me and I felt trapped in my own space. I’m much better off on my own.”