"Are you feeling okay?" I partially open my eyes and then close them again. No, I will not be crying.
"Hey, Niya, are you okay,"
"I witnessed a bloody, gory death. I thought my life was over,"
but you're not going to let that get you down, Niya.
My thigh is being rubbed and squeezed by him.
"I know, I'm sorry," he adds in acknowledgement. When I notice a break in his voice, I quickly cast my gaze in his direction.
"It's not your fault, we just happen to live in a country with a lot of crime. "When are we arriving, I need a bath. Although it pains me to admit it, I'm actually kind of happy the beast showed up.
After hearing the words "we are here," a double-sided gate swings wide, revealing an exquisite panorama.
"Where are we?"
"Home." I often seem to forget that he's a prince, but this is just stunning. As we make our way down the long road, we see a Victorian home that is neither enormous nor puny—just the right size.
I feel compelled to put my nose to it because it appears to have a clay-like odour.
I was expecting a butler to greet us when we entered, but there wasn't one. The furnishings are exquisite; I feel as though I've been transported to a time and place somewhere between Morden and the past.
"This is so lovely."
"If you're the house madam, you can have it."When I'm close enough, he picks me up and carries me.
Let's run you a bath right now. Clinging to his neck, I lay my head on his chest.
The tub was not very useful. Before opting to take a shower, I had the water changed twice to eliminate the possibility of getting any of the man's tissue in my hair. Even after showering, I can still detect his scent.
At moments like these, I really miss being at home with my loved ones. My grandmother's reassurance, Ntate's hugs, and Ledi's lame jokes are what keep me going. I check the bruises that had appeared on my neck and find that they have faded, so the water must have done some good.
I open the door and immediately see my bag. I make a mad dash through the carpet floor trying to find my PJs. I think I'll try to get some sleep and hope that things improve in the morning.
There's a tall monster chasing me through the woods, and I can only see its shadow. I can hear its heartbeat, so it must be growing closer. The beat is familiar to me.
I flip on the lamp and gaze to my left as I jump out of bed, perspiring. Sigh with relief. I need Sleeping pills. Absolutely, I'm going to need some.
The house is not completely dark because outside lights are able to filter inside. I wander till I find the kitchen, and then I go through all of the cabinets seeking for sleeping medications.
After a second time through the kitchen, I give up. A glass of warm milk might help. When I put my hot, naked feet on the floor, I get an instant relief.
"What is that?" I go down on all fours and make my way to the entryway, where glowing sketches like those in the withes books greet me. Holy crap, I can't believe I'm in this.
*
*
*
In the meantime, Mqhele had gone bloodthirsty in Kzn.
He asked the man, his boots leaving the ground, "What are you up to?" before squeezing his throat.
"You are losing strength, it must be true that-
A gut blow interrupted him and knocked him to the ground.
"Do not put me to the test. A travel to the afterlife only for the purpose of delivering a parcel is fine with me. Was your last loop a living hell for you?"
"I told you I know nothing about the attack, so why would I tell the wizards where she is? I can't fix my problems unless she's on my side."
Mqhele trod right on his chin. "This is your eternal punishment, Ramel; you will never see paradise again."
"God is merciful; all I have to do is earn his forgiveness."
"Good luck with that, by the way. But you have to begin somewhere, so let's track down those soul-sucking creatures and maybe get your sentence lowered, seeing as how you claim he is lenient." He walked away after kicking sand in his face.
*
*
*
Why isn't she answering... Naledi, please!
At long last, she spoke up.
There was a shuffling sound, and she conceded, "You better be dying."
"Ledi, I really need to leave this place right now."
The rapidity of my heartbeat caused my tears to turn to snot.
I couldn't make sense of it, but considering all that's happened recently, I knew this guy's presence meant trouble.
"I was under the impression that you and Mqhele had already left."
"I'm at his place, and I don't trust him. I beg you, I must -
As soon as the front door shut, I hung up and scurried under the kitchen island and cleaned my face with my hands.
"Lord, please have your angels come and rescue me."
As he ascended the stairs, I could no longer hear his footsteps. I had to get out of here now.
"Aaah." I help my fist to my mouth.
He poked his head in , as he took in the gloomy surroundings.
He murmured, "What are you doing there," as he squirmed his way in and took a seat across from me.
I shook my head, at a loss for words, my entire body shaking. I was drenched in cold chills from head to toe.
He asked me with his palm on my forehead, "Are you sick?"
He grasps both of my hands, and his gaze penetrates me to the core.
As he drew me into him, I sobbed. I had my doubts about this man, but the look in his eyes dispelled them. Stories of undying loyalty and safeguarding, but I knew better than to dismiss the warnings.
YOU ARE READING
Motlalepula <unedited>𝗢𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱
Mystery / ThrillerA story about a gifted girl who is seen as an abomination death seems to follow her everywhere. Her life written in the stars feared by many that sore to her dismay.
