(It’s the break of dawn at Sibu’s house. His mom is sickly worried about his where abouts)
Nomusa: Sihle, I didn’t hear Sibu arriving late last night with a bang of doors. Could you please check his house?
Sihle: Will do mom, but not now. Let’s give him 10 minutes to decide if he wants to wake up or not. Only then I can check up on him.
Nomusa: I don’t think you heard what I’ve just said.
Sihle: OK mom, I am heading there now.
Nomusa: Better do so. Let me make him his favourite cup of coffee.
Sihle: I’m jealous now. When will my own mother spoil me as my brother? That is so unfair mother, and you know it.
Nomusa: Typical of you to brag about petty stuff. Now go and check your brother.
Sihle: No need to be harsh mother!
(Sihle checks Sibu and come back to her mother.)
Nomusa: And?
SIhle: The house is empty. He’s not there.
Nomusa: Oh my son, where are you now?
Sihle: Don’t get all worked up mom. He’s probably at his second crib. Besides, it was Friday yesterday.
Nomusa: Do you think he is safe and sound wherever he is?
Sihle: Yes. He would have called had something bad occurred to him. He is cautious, you know him.
Nomusa: I would like to believe your words my little flower.
Sihle: Cell C…believe.
Nomusa: Okay, if my last born say so. Now let’s prepare to hit the street.
Sihle: I don’t feel like setting my feet outside home today.
Nomusa: Even if your folk wants you to change your wardrobe, your hair and pamper you occasionally?
Sihle: No, not at all! I’m going to boil water to bath. Will be ready in no time.
Nomusa: I thought as much.
***
(At Sibu’s apartment and he is boiling water for breakfast. Khaya is heading down the steps to meet his friend at the kitchen)
Sibu: No, you shouldn’t have come out of bed. You’re too weak to walk, even to stand up.
Khaya: Good morning to you too Sibu. I slept well last night, how about you?
Sibu: Well, I too slept well knowing that my chum is safe. But there was something during your sleep.
Khaya: What was it?
Sibu: You were panting non-stop. Your breath was as heavy as the engine of the truck. I was too afraid that you might embark on a journey where no traveller returns.
Khaya: Worry not. I’m not going anywhere. I won’t leave my friend to be devoured by this cruel world.
Sibu: Death do not report bro.
Khaya: Yeah, yeah. About what I went through yesterday, I remember half of it.
Sibu: Memories can be painful. And on the other hand, forgetting might be a blessing. Consider that as a blessing in disguise.
Khaya: I didn’t know you were so deep.
Sibu: Same old, same old Khaya. So, when are you going to report what happened to the police?
Khaya: I don’t think I’ll have to take it that far.
Sibu: Are you listening to yourself? Don’t let those scumbags get away with it. They’ll do it to others; they take advantage of those that are boosted by chemical stimulants. Please think about this.
Khaya: I have already thought about it. And my decision stands.
Sibu: If that’s what you want.
Khaya: Thanks. And please, this stays between us. I should be heading home right now.
Sibu: I’ll drive you then. And I’m not taking no for an answer.
Khaya: Fine. You’re worse than my own mother.
Sibu: For a good deed, of course.
Khaya: Let me go to the bathroom and freshen up.
Sibu: There are clothes I think will fit you there. You could slip them on once you’re done showering.
Khaya: I was wondering about that. Do you read my mind?
Sibu: Sometimes.
Khaya: Liar! It was just a coincident.
***
Tell us what you think: Should Khaya report the incident?