3
EBONY
Café Man parked in the laneway behind Ebony’s apartment complex and helped her out of the passenger seat. He supported her while they went up two flights of stairs, every step a struggle. Ebony was grateful she lived in a low-rise building.
‘You can go now. Thanks.’ Ebony didn’t look at him. She wanted to pretend he wasn’t there. If she ignored him, he might go away.
‘Are you sure? I’m happy to help. I’ll make a cup of coffee or tea, whatever you prefer.’
‘I don’t want you to help me. You’ve helped me enough. I’d prefer it if you left.’
Although not feeling as forceful as she wanted to sound, Ebony stood with her feet apart, one hand on her hip. The other hand rested on the side of her abdomen.
Café Man took a business card out of his jacket pocket and handed it to Ebony. ‘I
