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They leave, and at a nod from the professor, I crack open the bottle and take a sip. Instantly, a feeling of calm washes over me and I visibly relax.
“You thought it was the other water. The one that makes you forget.”
I grimace and shrug slightly, taking another sip.
“Please just trust me, and I'll tell you everything when we’re out of here. I promise. No more secrets.”
I nod. What other choice do I have? The thought of staying here, alone, and at Payne’s mercy terrifies me. For that reason alone, I’ll agree to whatever the professor wants.
“Bhodi, Reef and Cove are waiting in reception for you. I promise, another twenty minutes, tops, and you can see them.”
Tears prick at my eyes at that. I was so grateful when the prof said Bhodi phoned him and he came all this way to play the role of my lawyer, it didn’t occur to me that the others would come too.
“Oh yes, they’re beside themselves with worry for you, Malia. We all were.”
I don’t miss the way the prof groups himself in with that statement, and it warms me.I can do this.With their concern and care for me, I can be strong. I can trust them. I can put all my worries and fears and questions on a back burner for another day.Just get me out of here, and I’ll do anything.
There’san almighty roar of rage from outside, followed by a thump against the door which startles me. The professor gets to his feet and takes up a protective stance in front of me.
“Payne!” Several voices shout at once. “Walk it off! Go!”
Then there’s silence.
The professor doesn’t move, and neither do I. I’m glad I’m still sitting because my knees are shaking. Eventually the door opens and Moyes appears, alone, with a rueful look.
“Miss Van der Zee? You’re free to go. If you head to the welcome desk, we’ll have your things returned to you.”
She’s gone before I can ask questions.
“Say nothing.”The professor snaps his briefcase closed and grabs the remnants of my water, before ushering me out into the corridor and along to the main entrance.
“I’ll grab your things and sign your paperwork,” the prof tells me, and I thank him.
“Malia!” My name is shouted in stereo and three pairs of arms are suddenly hugging me, surrounding me with warmth and love. I bask in it.
“Thank god you’re alright!” Cove breathes, stroking my hair and kissing my forehead. In the background somewhere a phone rings, and someone answers it.
“I was going crazy when they wouldn’t let us see you. Are you okay?” Bhodi asks, looking more shaken than I’ve ever seen him. I give him a weak, reassuring smile and nod.
“I’m okay.”
“Want to get out of here?” Reef asks. I sigh in relief.
“Please.”
“Let’s go.”
Just as we’re stepping towards the door, a voice calls out, “Miss Van der Zee? You need to wait a moment.”
I stare at the guys, wondering what’s going on. Biting my lip, I slowly nod, apprehension flooding me. I want to run, even though there’s no logical reason for me to.God, it would look bad if I did.
“I’m sorry Miss Van der Zee, some new evidence has come to light and we’re going to need you to remain here a little while longer.”
“What?” I whisper, aghast.
“Why?” Bhodi demands.
Even the prof has tensed, his knuckles around his briefcase handle a shocking contrast to his otherwise dark skin.
