“I love you more,” I reply, feeling the warmth of his words settle inside me.
The night breeze is hitting hard, brushing against my skin through the half-cracked window as I drive. When I make a turn, my eyes catch a familiar face, one of my students. I think her name is Jania. Isn’t she Jordane’s girlfriend?
She’s walking beside a stout man, heading toward the bus stop. My curiosity is instantly piqued. She doesn’t live on this side of town, and as her teacher, I feel responsible, especially given the time.
I quickly turn the music down and blow the horn. She looks over, surprised, then walks toward the car. I pull over to the side and lower the window as she reaches me.
“Good night, Mrs. Williams,” she says politely.
I smile at her, though something tugs in my chest.
It’s Mrs. Jacobs,my subconscious corrects gently, and I shift in my seat.
“Good night, Jania. Where are you heading?” I ask, glancing at the man she was just walking with. He’s standing across the road now, watching us. There’s something unsettling about his presence.
I turn my attention back to Jania and that’s when I see it her face. It’s bruised, swollen in spots, and her eyes are puffy from crying. Dark bags sit underneath them like she hasn’t slept in days.
“Um, I’m going to look for someone,” she says hesitantly.
“Okay… so it’s a little late,” I respond, scanning the area. There are no buses in sight, and the road is unusually quiet. “What time you getting a drive?” I ask gently, trying not to pressure her too much. I glance back at the man. Something’s off.
“You traveling with your dad?” I inquire, choosing my words carefully. He doesn’t look old enough to be her father, but I’m hoping the question opens her up.
“He’s a friend,” she answers, avoiding my eyes, “and no, we are not traveling together. He’s going back home, but I should get a drive to um, Spanish Town.”
Her eyes waters. Something is definitely wrong. My chest tightens, and I know I can’t leave her here.
“Get in the car,” I tell her firmly. “I… I’ll take you.”
It’s going to be a lot for me, especially when I’m already this tired, but she needs someone. I push aside my fear of Spanish Town, just this once.
As she nods and walks around the car, I call out to the stout man to let him know I’ll be giving her a ride. He approaches, cautious but silent, and I prepare myself for whatever comes next.
“I’m gonna take her, okay? I’m her form teacher, Mrs. Jacobs. Take my number,” I tell the man as I hand him my card.
“Thanks,” he nods.
He seems like a good guy, respectful and calm. Nothing about him feels alarming, which gives me a little peace. Still, I can feel Jania’s eyes on me as I get ready to drive. She’s staring at me like she wants to say something, but whatever it is, she’s holding it in tight.
As I drive, my mind is racing. She’s not okay. Her face, the bruises, the way her eyes sink like she hasn’t slept in days, something is seriously wrong.
Where exactly is she going this time of the night?
I stay quiet, trying not to overwhelm her, but I press the gas just a little harder. The silence between us is heavy, tense. She keeps glancing at me now and then, and I know she wants to speak.
“Miss,” she finally says, her voice trailing nervously.
“Yes?” I glance at her quickly before turning my focus back to the road.
“I-I always see J-Jordane around you… a-are you related to him?” Her voice cracks and I hear the sob build.
I furrow my brows, heart dropping a bit.
“He’s my brother-in-law,” I reply.
She wipes her face, but the tears keep flowing. “Um… is… Junior, uh, is he your husband?” she asks, trembling now.
I shake my head. “Nickoi is.”
