THE BODYGUARD

My father's decision to relocate from town was a welcome relief, as I had grown weary of the persistent urban din. Our move from Pietermaritzburg town to the hills of Howick was the one for long I had been longing for. A site rich in historical significance, marked a new chapter. This is where Nelson Mandela's journey to 27 years of imprisonment began.

The peaceful atmosphere of our new home is nothing short of idyllic, with birdsong being the sole noise, beautiful encapsulating my sense of freedom and release. Tall trees enveloped our neighbourhood, characterized by sparse residential development within the forest, yielding an ambiance that was simultaneously intimidating and alluring. Despite being misjudged as spoiled, I like my father, possessed a strong work ethic. His own story serves as testimony, having overcome adversity after a truck accident led to a significant compensation, which he leveraged to launch a highly successful business venture. Being his only child people might have believed I was a spoiled brat.

Initially, I believed that business opportunities follow existing investments, as exemplified by my father's upcoming business trip to Dubai aimed at expanding his operations. During his month-long absence, I would remain alone in our mansion, which didn't concern me since I appreciate solitude and value personal reflection time.

As I spent my first night alone in this expensive home, I related on my bed, laptop open enjoying some reading material. Given the heat I wore only the essentials, and my bedroom door was slightly ajar. The silence was striking, to the point where even the faintest noise would register. This harmony with nature, coupled with stillness, was precisely what initially resonated with me about this location.

After remaining still for a while, I chose to reposition myself. As I turned, I was startled to see a man standing behind me, which made me scream. The sudden movement and fear caused my laptop to fall. The man wearing a long black coat and carrying a gun in his left hand, steadfastly stared at me without uttering a word. How did he come in? I pondered, alarmed that I hadn't noticed him climbing the stairs. Is this house inhabited by ghosts? While frightened, I understood that screaming would be ineffective, given the likelihood of going unheard.


CHAPTER 2

Facing death without warning was never a scenario I envisioned, despite my prudent and deliberate lifestyle. My life had been marked by careful consideration of each step, yet I still encountered mortality. Perplexed about what had led to this junction. Whoever said life is not fair sure was not kidding. In a desperate plea, I exclaimed.

"Please don't harm me; my father's wealth ensures any financial reward you desire." I had never felt so vulnerable. My body shook, on the verge of collapse, yet somehow I remained dry-eyed. Perhaps due to the gun not being directly trained on me. The assailants unblinking stare seemed to bore in to my soul, his silence more unsettling than any words.

He gazed at me for some time without speaking, then broke the silence, saying:

"Rest assured, I mean no harm and I'm so sorry for frightening you." His refined voice belied his earlier silence, which had prompted me to wonder if he was deaf. I was still bewildered and confused, not sure what was happening. He recognised my confusion and swiftly addressed it.

"To clarify, your father engaged me as your bodyguard. I've evaluated the circumstances here and I will depart now." As he deported, he uttered his final words and proceeded slowly towards the door. Interestingly, the sound of his footsteps was evident as he left, but had been imperceptible upon his arrival. His voice possessed a calming quality and his speech was characterized by a gentlemanly precision. My questions were plentiful, much like the maggots on a dead elephant. I swiftly arose from bed and tailed after him. As he descended the stairs, I asked.

"Don't bodyguards typically provide overnight protection? What if I'm attacked after you leave?" His lack of response was concerning. Furthermore, I wondered.

"How did you enter undetected?" I asked him. His presence had an extraordinary impact on me. As an individual who cherished alone time, I found myself desiring his extended company, an unprecedented feeling. This unusual connection led me to consider the possibility of supernatural involvement.

"You didn't hear me enter because I wished to remain unnoticed." He said politely, his voice reverberating within me. Continuing towards the door he paused upon my inquiry.

"What's your name" I asked him.

"My name is Sean." He replied turning to face me. Sensing his imminent departure, I urged,

"Sean, please wait. Although initially skeptical of needing protection your presence has alarmed me. My father wouldn't have assigned a bodyguard unless necessary. Please stay." Regardless of his unusual nature, I sought his companionship.

"You're safe, I promise." Sean said, yet turned to leave, stating.

"I must go." He exited, leaving me behind.


CHAPTER 3

The subsequent day at work, I decided against sharing my experiences from the previous night with colleagues, primarily due to my lack of established friendships. Furthermore, I elected no to consult my father regarding this individual, knowing that his involvement would imply a deliberate setup. My father was aware of my extended period of singleness, despite recieving interest from numerous potential partners. His concern and desire to facilitate a romantic connection were apparent. Perhaps he thought I would be much happier that way, my happiness was his first priority and would do anything for it. And even if he did hire me a bodyguard, why would he hire me such a charming one? Unless person proved to be entirely unrelated to my father's machinations, I preferred to keep our interaction private until gaining a deeper understanding.

'I was waiting for so long, for a miracle to come. Everyone told me to be strong, but I was lost waiting for you. Hush now I see the light in the sky it's almost blinding me I can't believe I've been touched by an angel with love. Let the rain come down and wash away my tears, let if fill my soul and drown my fears, let it shadow the walls for a new sun, a new day has come ' My afternoon drive home from work featured Celine Dion's uplifting 'A New Day Has Come.

Though well acquired with the song it's impact was as if I heard it for the first time. On repeat, memories of Sean from the previous day flooded my mind. This song will forever be tied to memories of him, regardless of our future. The lyrics articulated my emotions precisely. Upon arriving home, I indulged in a lengthy shower, accompanied by Celine Dion's soothing vocals, which filled me with a sense of renewal.

Later that evening, Sean returned. This time around announcing his presence with a courteous knock on the door. My heart raced as I approached the entrance, I assumed it was him. He presented me with an exquisite bouquet, it's fragrance captivating. With a charming smile, he offered a sincere apology for the previous day's events. His thoughtfulness and endearing demeanor left me bewildered, questioning the reality of this unexpected gesture.

"Sindy, are you alright? He inquired with a concern, and suddenly my senses were revitalised.

"Yes I'm fine, thank you so much for the lovely flowers, they are exquisite." He smiled once more

"Not as lovely as you, I thought." I couldn't help but blush profoundly, feeling as though I might melt away. For an instant we locked eyes, frozen in a silence that transcended words. That fleeting moment was invaluable to me; no amount of wealth could compare to it's significance. The events unfolded at the entrance. Following a brief pause, I extended an invitation for him to enter. Upon acceptance he took a seat. He is the only outsider whose company I enjoy more than the one of myself.


CHAPTER 4

We start arguing whenever I ask him to stay the whole night. Our discussion was pleasant until he took his leave. I'm drown to the way he looks at me, conveying a sense of genuine interest and care. His deliberate actions imply that his intentions may be honourable, rather than driven solely by attraction. Unlike many others, Sean hasn't attempted any physical contact, demonstrating remarkable restraint. I pretend to be unaware of the profound meaning behind his gaze and the emotions it expresses.

The next day he revisited, maintaining his nocturnal schedule. With the weekend looming, he suggested an excursion, to which I readily agreed. This marked a novel experience for me, as I had never previously anticipated a weekend with such enthusiasm. In anticipation I procured a new dress specially for the occasion. As the weekend commenced, I was adequately prepared. I felt more than beautiful.

On Saturday evening, Sean arrived to collect me, and despite uncertainty regarding our destination, I was reassured that his presence would render the experience pleasant. My confidence scored as he was visibly taken by my appearance that night

"You are stunning." He said his hand enveloping mine as he kissed it. My stomach danced with butterflies.

"Thank you." I murmured, my face flushing.

"Shall we?" He asked leading me to the car and opening the door with courtesy. As he drove I felt an inexplicable sense of comfort, as if our acquaintance was long-standing.


CHAPTER 5

Sean and I had barely departed our residence when a car, seemingly hidden, began following us. As it closed in, it's occupants initiated a shooting spree.

"Sean, who are these people and why are they attacking us?" I demanded, feeling frightened and exasperated. Sean accelerated and the pursuing vehicle matched our speed. Instead of answering he instructed me to switch to the driver's seat, which I did swiftly and the car almost ran to the trees. Sean then brandished his forearm and returning verbal fire, prompting the pursuers to slow there by creating some separation.

"What's happening, Sean?" I asked loudly, my voice trembling with emotion as tears streamed down my face. He regarded me with an expression that suggested familiarity with the situation, prompting me to exclaim urgently.

"Sean!" He responded calmly.

"Please calm down, I'll explain everything. In reality, your father did not engage my services as your bodyguard, he's not even aware of my existence. My actual employer, hired me to kill you, and our initial encounter was intended for that purpose. However, upon seeing you I was overcome with affection and chose not to carry out the task. Your innocence and purity captivated me, rendering me unable to fulfil the contract. I must confess, I'm a hitman, not a bodyguard; my profession involves taking lives, not protecting them." A surge of terror overwhelmed me, as anger and frustration, and fear converged simultaneously, further exacerbated by the relentless stream of questions. Meanwhile, the car tailing us continued it's pursuit, while another vehicle, trapping us and instilling a sense of hopelessness, convincing me that my demise was inevitable that night.

"Who hired you?" I asked sternly.

"That's not important now, what matters now is that anyone intending to harm you will have to contend with me first. I've assumed responsibility for your protection and am willing to make the ultimate sacrifice." He said and I accelerated. I resigned myself to the likelihood of impending doom. Sean's pleas to reduce speed barely registered, as if emanating from distance. I felt as if the car was flying and it was actually rolling over. I lost awareness of subsequent events.

Upon regaining consciousness, I found myself in an unfamiliar setting, experiencing debilitating pain throughout my body, rendering me incapable of even lifting my head. I was uncertain of my whereabouts or the circumstances leading me there. As footsteps approached, I tremulously asked.

"Where am I?" A polite female voice responded.

"You're in the hospital, having been involved in a car accident, but rest assured you're receiving proper care and will recover." As she spoke my memories began to return, allowing me to grasp reality of the situation. I then asked.

"Where is Sean?"

"You must be referring to the gentleman you were with in the vehicle." I pressed for further information asking,

"Yes, where is he?" She regretfully informed me.

"I'm sorry he did not survive." Her words occasioned a profound emotional response leaving me with a feeling akin to my soul departing my body. Upon her explaining that we were found by police, it was clear to me that the car that was approaching us from the opposite direction were police, which means that if I didn't speed up we were going to get help Sean was not going to die. Actually Sean is dead because of me.

The most significant challenge I faced was the fact that Sean was the only individual who could make me feel the way he made me feel. His ability to connect with the core of my inner self was unparalleled. The sensation was complete, rendering even the world, with all it's imperfections, seemingly perfect for the first time. It was not solely his physical appearance or the timbre of his voice that enthralled me, but the entirety of his being. I acknowledge that he was irreplaceable, having previously encountered handsome and wealthy men who failed to elicit the same emotional response that Sean did with ease. It may be that a feeling of such intensity occurs only once in a lifetime. But then Sean was gone and it was all my fault.

CHAPTER 6

The fear of being harmed at the hospital dissipated, I recognised that Sean's departure meant my potential assailants would, in fact have brought me closer to him if they had acted. I received visits from my colleagues, but Joseph's visit stood out due to our working relationship and his persistent interest in me. As facility manager, I worked closely with Joseph who managed operations and we complemented each other professionally.

"Everyone in the office misses you." Joseph said placing the flowers he had purchased for me above my head, they did not smell as nice as the ones Sean bought me.

"I miss everyone as well, but I'm afraid I won't be returning."

"What? What do you mean?" He asked with a serious concern.

"I intend to submit my resignation letter. And relocate to start anew."

"What? No you can't do that." He sighed.

"Okay Sindy look, as you know that I love you so much. You can resign it's fine but please do not relocate. Accept me as your lover and I will marry you immediately and take a good care of you. As my wife no one will you I promise." His eyes glistened with unshed tears as he expressed these thoughts, revealing a deep-seated aspiration to care for him. Given my newfound appreciation for love and the loss of the person who guided me, it would be prudent to give him a chance. Indeed, navigating life's complexities demands a partner who loves me unreservedly, as Joseph does.

"Let me heal first then we will take it from there."

"That is all I'm asking for." He said with excitement. From there on, Joseph became a daily visitor. He took advantage of the opportunity to prove himself worthy of my consideration. Although it provided a modicum of relief, Sean's memory continued to occupy my thoughts. I often found myself smiling inwardly when reflecting on his smile, laughter, patience, and the way everything seemed to fall into place with him around. Joseph was a remarkable person, but he failed to live up to Sean's exceptional standards and the emotions he stirred within me.

After a relatively short hospital stay, I was able to return home. When I got home it was more as if I was going to see him. I thought I was better but when I got home my agony started all over again. I couldn't handle it I failed to accept that he was gone. I was desperate to see him even if from distance. I was overwhelmed by profound sense of emptiness, which no one could comprehend. I broke down in tears everyday. I disconnected from the outside world by switching off my cellphone and didn't want to communicate with anyone, including my father. In my state of despair, I almost wished for the people who attempted to kill me to complete the job, so I could be reunited with Sean in the afterlife, actually I didn't care anymore whether I lived or died.

I didn't inform my father about the incident or my hospitalisation because he was on the verge of securing important deals. I didn't want to disrupt his negotiations as I knew he would put everything on hold and return home, which wouldn't be fair considering his hard work.


CHAPTER 7

My father's prolonged stay in Dubai prompted me to reassess my circumstances. Following a period of self-imposed seclusion, my bosses encouraged me to return to my professional duties. After a careful consideration, I decided to resume my responsibilities, feeling revitalised and prepared to tackle new challenges. Having undergone a period of intense introspection and emotional catharsis, I recognised the imperative to refocus on personal development and growth. I intended to discuss my plans with Joseph during a social engagement, proposing that we explore the potential for a romantic relationship that he had been asking for

Joseph and I encountered each other in a public venue. After sharing my decision to return to work, he seemed taken aback yet agreeable. I was about to accept his proposal, which entailed becoming his girlfriend and in due course, his wife, given his eagerness to marry. I was about to tell him the good news when I saw someone who resembled Sean passing in front of us. I quickly stood up and followed this guy. He just disappeared in the crowd I did not see where he went. Upon returning to Joseph, my mood had shifted and I requested to leave.

"Joseph I apologise, but I must go." I said without taking a seat.

"Why? Was it something I said?" He asked. I reasserted my desire to leave and, without awaiting his response I went straight to my vehicle. This happened before I told him that I accept his proposal to be his girlfriend.

Upon arriving home, I experienced a profound sense of sadness once again, precipitated by the encounter with an individual I believed to be Sean. This led to a deep yearning to see him at least one more time and hear his voice again. I succumbed to tears, which persisted until I fell asleep. Upon waking, I felt a pronounced sense of hunger, prompting me to consider going downstairs to prepare food. When I woke up I saw Sean standing before me, prompting me to wipe my eyes in the belief that I was dreaming. He maintained the same demeanour as when I first encountered him.

"Please don't disappear, I just want to look at you for a little longer." I begged and he smiled. I felt my heart beating fast and slow at the same time.

"Do not worry I won't disappear. I'm not a ghost, I'm real."

"Really? You are real? So you didn't die?"

"Nope I'm alive." Upon hearing those words I jumped at him like a coin to a magnet, and I held on to him so tight as if I was never going to let go.

"Please promise me that you won't leave me again." Before he could explain anything, I wanted to be assured that he won't leave again. I felt that was much more important than whatever it is that had made him leave in the first place.

"I won't leave you again." He said and the hunger I was feeling evaporated like morning mist.

After a prolonged hug, I let go of him and locked eyes with him, then kissed him passionately. My entire body quivered as that kiss felt divine, a sensation often associated with the concept of heaven. The feeling was reminiscent of descriptions often employed to explain the afterlife. After the lengthy passionate kiss I asked him.

""What happened? I thought you were dead, well I was told you were dead " I said, overcome with relief, struggling to process the astonishing turn of events, which mirrored my most cherished aspiration, one I had resigned myself to never experiencing, at least not in this lifetime. Sean's soft eyes spoke volumes, often saying more in silence than words, in his eyes I could see my future.

"I wanted you to believe I was dead. I wanted everyone to believe I'm dead. You see Sindy, my lifestyle is very dangerous, I couldn't risk my enemies knowing I'm injured and weak. Rather they should believe that I'm dead. As in for you I wanted to use that as an escape. With the type of a job that I do I realised that me being close to you is not safe for you. My enemies will use you to get to me.

Having you believing I'm dead was just a perfect way for me to just disappear and never come back again. The only reason I did not is because the person who wants you dead is still in the picture and I couldn't leave without knowing that you'll be safe. Right now your life is in danger and that's the reason why I came back." As he said those words, our eyes connected, and I felt drawn to his expressive communication style and the intellectual stimulation of his thoughts.

"Well come to think of it, whoever wants me dead is the reason I know you and the reason you came back, this person must care dearly for me." I said and he chuckled slightly.

"Sindy, this is not a joke, like I said your life is in danger."

"Next time you want to leave me, please don't decide for me. Let me be the one to choose whether I want to take that risk of being with you or not." He chuckled again.

"I take it you'll choose to be with me anyway."


"I think you're a fast learner." He laughed a little and then sighed.

"You know right now the only fear I have in the whole wide world, is to live knowing you died because of me. I know I won't be able to forgive myself." I knew the feeling he was talking about. In his gaze, I perceived profound affection, our bond required no external validation, as long as we shared the fundamental necessity of breath, our union was self-sustaining.

"Who is busy trying to kill me anyway?" He looked at me. I kissed him again passionately and asked again.

"Who wants me dead."


CHAPTER 8

"The person trying to kill you is Joseph." I was very shocked to hear this.

"What?"

"Joseph is the person who hired me to kill you, he didn't tell me why. Because I love you I did my own investigation as in to why does he want to kill you. It's about the position at work, Joseph knew that you're the one who's going to get the general manager position which he wants so badly. When you got injured your bosses told him that you got the job and stated that in the meanwhile he'll be getting the position on the fixed term basis until you fully recover.

He relaxed when you told him that you were not going back to work, but today you told him a different story which is why he wants you dead again, he will do anything to get that possible on a permanent basis."

"Oh My God this busted! I thought he loved me."

"Well maybe he does but his power hunger is greater than what he feels for you."

"Don't get me wrong I'm not saying I don't believe you, I'm just curious, how did you find out why he wants me dead?"

"I have my sources who are very close to him, it's easy to get the information."

"I see, anyway you're going to stay the whole night right?" I prayed he says yes and he did. In excitement I rose from my seat to begin playing music, coinciding with Don Williams's song on the radio. The lyrics resonated deeply.

'Don't think about tomorrow it doesn't matter anymore, we can shut out the worl. Kick off your shoes turn off the light and love me tonight.' inspired I returned to him, locked eyes , and we shared a gentle dance.

Our slow movement culminated in a passionate kiss, and we intimately embraced. The experience was sublime, transcending the ordinary. It was then that I knew this was the man I was destined to be with, my existence would revolve around him.

With my head on his chest, turned into the soothing cadence of his heartbeat, he noted a disturbing a disturbance downstairs, while I remained oblivious to anything except the subtle melody.

"Baby please don't go I didn't hear anything."

"Seriously I heard something, I'll just go and check please stay here until i come back." He said and gave me a kiss on my forehead. He took his gun and went downstairs.

Short after Sean descended downstairs, a flurry of gunshots erupted, instantly heightening my concern for his safety. The ongoing gunfire only served to amplify my distress, prompting me to venture hastily, nightdress wrapped hastily around me in pursuit of Sean. Amidst the cacophony of shots, my visibility was limited yet I remained steadfast in my resolve. Should Sean have fallen victim, I would rather share his fate than confront the unrelenting torment of a life without him.

Descending the stairs, I shut my eyes and managed two steps before losing my footing on the third. Thankfully, Sean promptly responded, breaking my fall by catching me securely in his arms. Sean maintained a defensive coverage, shooting from the side while ensuring my safety behind him as we continued down. We got down and found a safe place to hide. He seemed to know where these guys were shooting from.

"I told you to stay upstairs until I got back, you almost got yourself killed."

"I'm so sorry I couldn't stay I was worried about you." He kissed me on the forehead.

"Now please stay here, do not follow me, I repeat do not follow me " He said and left, I remained hidden at the location as the gunfire continued for a period of time before eventually ceasing. The subsequent silence was profound, as if the earlier disturbance had never occurred. With trepidation, I ventured out and called his name, lacking knowledge of his survival.

The joy of seeing him alive and unharmed was so overwhelming that I moved to tears.

"Is it over?" I asked him.

"For now yes it is." He said and I just went to hug him.

His impressive shooting ability motivated me to pursue firearms training, albeit with no background in handling guns

"Can I hold your gun? I just want to touch it that's all." I asked and he gave it to me

"Careful it's loaded and if you touch the trigger the rest will be history." I smiled.

"Don't worry I won't touch the trigger. Wow it's heavy." It was my first time ever touching a gun. He laughed.

My dad appeared from behind likely having entered through the back door, and apparently had heard the gunshots, given the firearm in his hands. Sean turned but his own gun was in my possession.

My dad fired three shots at Sean before I could react, and Sean slumped in to my arms. I let out a piercing scream as I dropped to my knees beside him, horrified by the blood oozing from his mouth.

Sean's words remained unspoken as he struggled to speak. I screamed my lungs out. My dad stood motionless, confused, as I picked up Sean's gun, which had slipped from my hand when he fell in to my arms after being shot, and I pressed it against my own head.

"Sindy wait, what are you doing? Who is this guy?" Dad asked, I looked at him.

"Dad you have killed my reason for breathing, it is better for me to die with him because I can't live without him."

"Sindy please, let's talk about this, please put the gun down."

"I'm going to count to three after that I'm going to pull the trigger, goodbye dad." I said and immediately I started counting.

"1......., 2....................."

THE END