Diana made her way through the streets. One step after another, she imagined her next meal; her beddings for the night; where to get shelter or get a bath. But on she moved. She reached a pavement outside the National water offices where she sat to rest. It was approaching 5:00pm, a few workers were leaving for their homes.

One by one they passed by without noticing her. They were too sophisticated to notice her or allow her to work in their homes. A lady dressed in green floral blouse and black skirt approached her and asked her what her problem was.

Diana mentioned that she needed a job as a housemaid if she would offer one. The lady apologised but promised to find out from her colleagues. She asked Diana to come to the same spot the next day. Diana could not ask for shelter for the night. She thought that was asking for too much. She wandered on.

Mike arrived then. Just on time to receive message. He read the note which was placed neatly on the table.

“Damn!” He screamed

“I wish I could lay my hands on the little witch” he swore tearing the note into numerous pieces. He got out slamming the door behind him.

“What time did she leave” he raged at the neighbour

“Who” came the innocent answer from the neighbour

“Stop pretending! Diana left, she left a note, aha”

Diana left stealthily. She was afraid of being discovered. She feared that somebody would alert Mike.

Diana sat down to rest. She imagined what Aunt Zubeda would do if she found out about her escape. She also thought of her twin brothers lacking basic needs since no money would be remitted for their survival.

This is an extract from Tears in the morning. The complete book can be obtained from www.naboroharriet.com