MARRED

CHAPTER THIRTEEN - STAGGERED BY TWO WEEKS

Ahmad

The darkness that engulfed the tunnel was immense. Where was this place? How had I gotten here? I was in trouble. The unmistakable pounding of my heart informs me of that. But from who? The answer came too soon.

The sounds of quick footsteps, accompanied by a conversation that made me shiver to my bones gave me the response I needed.

"Did you find him?"

"No!"

There was an exasperated sigh of frustration and then a heavy slap! "How could you let him escape!" The one who seemed to be the Boss thundered.

"I am sorry Sir! We cannot explain it either. One minute he was there and the next, he just... vanished!"

"Nonsense! How can a 9-year-old kid vanish before all your dumb adult eyes!" he yelled again.

"Split the useless balls you call a team. Scout the entire area and report to me in a few minutes!"

Then I heard the sound of retreating footsteps rushing to do their Boss' bidding.

With my heart racing in my chest, I tried to recall how I had gotten here or why they were after me? But failed at every attempt. Instead, my head hurt at that. Who was I?

"Useless bunch!" The one who seemed to be the Boss cursed, and spat. The thick slimy water fell right on my face. Yes! If he only looked down for second, he would see me. But he didn't and he started to pace, moving slightly away from me as he cursed!

I brought my hand to wipe out his smelly saliva which was already finding it's way to my mouth. Then I heard his phone buzz.

"Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!" he cursed profusely as he stomped his feet. "Hello Rogue!" he said to the person on the other side. "Yes. We have the merchandise."

"I gave you my word, did I not?"

"Of course it's a rare type. You will be pleased."

"Did you put the money where it should be? Cash?"

"Good"

"Of course, I do not know why you worry! Have I ever failed in my promise to deliver?"

"Good!"

I was clearly the merchandise.

"Damn those useless bunches!" He cursed again, stomping his foot on the ground!

Just then, the retreated footsteps returned.

"Did you find him?"

"N...n... no s!"

There was the sound of gunshot, silence abd then, "Useless Bunch. All of you!" He spat again.

"Now listen up. Finding that boy is the only way any of you will remain alive. Do you hear me? Find that Diplomat's Son, or await your death!" He roared.

The scurried footsteps came again. Had he just shot someone dead? I held on to my mouth to prevent whimpering sounds coming from coming out.

At that point, I made another du'a, the same one that Prophet Yusuf had made.

My Lord, Creator of the heavens and the earth! You are my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Cause me to die as a Muslim and join me with the righteous.

There was the flash of light above the tunnel. And i was not sure, but the hissing of a snake? Had he heard me? His footsteps were deliberate as they approached the tunnel.