Chapter 29 - Chapter 28

# Chapter 28
AYANDA

"When did your ma first start hurting you?"

"My earliest memories involve my ma humiliating me in some form by installing padlocks on the cupboards to stop me from rummaging for food, or refusing to change my nappies for days. She was inventive with her punishments."

"No one knew?"

"No one cared."

A hand lands on my shoulder, and I nearly jump out of my skin. I rip my headphones off and attempt to punch Justice in the arm, but he dodges out of the way.

"What have I said, neh? Don't sneak up on me like that."

He doesn't look sorry, but he doesn't look like his usual smug self either.

Much to my annoyance, he sits his ass beside my laptop on my desk and closes the lid. Eish. I'm too tired for this.

Elbow on the armrest, I rub my brow and look up at him.

"I'm sorry about your dad."

Oh, that... I've had colleagues interrupting me all day long to express their condolences.

"I heard he died in his sleep?"

I make an agreeing sound before sighing gently. "How's it going with the serial killer?"

"There hasn't been another murder since last week."

"You must be running dry on things to print daily."

I can only imagine Mxolisi being on his ass constantly about writing new material. I can hear his voice in my head. Keep it fresh. Make it interesting. If you can't find any new information, bend the truth just enough.

At least, he's had the decency to leave me alone today now that my father has died.

Justice shrugs, flicking a speck of dust off his trousers. "If you need anything at all, just let me know."

I frown. "I don't like this nice version of you."