Well, I need a messenger. I need someone who will be my eyes and ears in this town. I also need someone who will transport my stuff. Will you be able to do that?” Mrs. Dlamini said.

“Madam, what stuff are you talking about?” Maria asked curiously.

“Drugs,” Mrs. Dlamini responded softly to Mariam’s ears.

“No, I am sorry dear. I cannot do that!” she replied.

“It is fine, I will not force you to do that. I gave you wings; it is up to you if you fly or not. Goodbye” Mrs. Dlamini left.

Maria was left interested in this, but she was frightened. She did not know what to think. She did not move from where she was while Mrs. Dlamini was moving away from her slowly.

“Mrs. Dlamini? It is fine. I can do it,” she said in a loud voice as Mrs. Dlamini approached the exit.

“Well, be at my house 7pm sharp!” Mrs. Dlamini commanded and they left.

She got home after speaking with Mr. Dlamini. She found George seated at the restroom hungry. There was no food left to eat. She slowly walked into the house with wet, red eyes.

“What is it, mom? Are you okay?” he questioned but silence filled the room. “Mom?” he repeated with his eyes popping out.

“Son, I am fine. I came across Mrs. Dlamini while I was walking with no clue where I was heading to. She promised me a job. I have to meet her at her house later.”

“Finally, someone lifted a heavy load from your shoulders. Are you not supposed to be happy?” George said almost jumping to hug his mom.

“No, I am fine, son. It is just that I am not sure if I want that job or not,” she responded.

“What kind of job are we talking about?”

“I will be assisting at her tavern.” She responded softly.

“When are you starting?” George asked, all smiles.

“Stop asking me thousands of questions! Don’t you have something to do?” The smile on his face had faded. He knew there was something wrong with his mother. George knew Mrs. Dlamini was cruel. I just hope she did not promise my mother her filthy job. But I know my mother will not do that, George thought to himself.

Later, Mariam went to meet Mrs. Dlamini. She left and went there without even telling George. When she arrived there, she found Mrs. Dlamini dusting off her favourite statue.

“Never knock again when you come here. Just phone when you come, and I will unlock the doors. Are we clear?” Mrs. Dlamini instructed.

“Yes, I understand. But why?” Mariam probed.

“Next time mind your own business.” She stood up and said, “Follow me!”

Mrs. Caine hesitated no more, she followed her. They headed up to a room where the merchandise was located.

“Look, this is all mine and could be yours. Look over there…” she pointed to a safe and continued, “That is where all the commands, rules and regulations, terms and conditions, and the work due to you is at. Now, go and open it and read everything written there.”

Mariam did as commanded.

“I think I understand this. I promise to abide by this note,” she crossed her fingers.

“Good. Do you want to know what will happen if you go against that note?” Mrs. Dlamini pointed her sharply.

“Uhm… Yes!” she responded.

“Now, go to that box over there.” Mariam went to the box behind the entrance. The box was covered with black plastic. After she opened the black plastic, she saw a bloodied box. She sat down quivering. She turned back to Mrs. Dlamini sweating and trembling and saw a gun pointed at her, “Open it!” She hit the table with handle of the gun. Mariam was shaking as she opened the hard-sealed box. She found a dead person’s head.

Tell us: What do you think Mariam needs to do next?