‘HI, my darling. I’ve washed my hair and I’ve packed an overnight bag; I’m not sure why, but I’m coming to spend the night with you,’ Deb says in her ever-cheerful voice. It is 2 July 2008.
My friend Dan and I have spent the day hiking in Oranjekloof, in absolute wonder at all the rainbows that were visible above Table Mountain’s peaks. I wondered whether those rainbows held some hope for the sadness I was feeling.
That evening, Deb and I choose mint tea over red wine, as if performing some unconscious ritual. Through the high arched window of my sanctuary overlooking Oranjekloof, we watch the Milky Way like two wise mothers waiting for a sign.
Oh, holy night.
I answer a call