Sapphic Voices Romance

IMAGES

Part Two

This is a novel - it builds upon itself. We do not have the beginning, the middle and the end within a few pages. This is a journey - please settle back and enjoy it.

There are a very few mild references to heterosexual sex, some bad language [relevant to the Story] and references to new and old songs - mainly British. I hope my American friends recognise the songs, however.

Chapter 6

Storm was feeling bored on Sunday afternoon. She’d stayed in the previous night, feeling like a quiet night. Though she was determined that she wasn’t going to accept everything that kd suggested, she was still relieved to be able to justifiably quieten her night life. She’d taken Vicky’s dog, Sally, for a long walk that morning and she was feeling invigorated and restless. She decided to walk into Subiaco, maybe have a coffee, then walk home.


She enjoyed the half-hour stroll in the bright sunlight, the recent rains had washed everything clean, leaving a sparkle in the air. She wandered around the market, browsing through the stalls, then picked a café bar she’d never been in before; not wanting to bump into any of her social set. She walked from the bright sunlight into the relative gloom of the café. Allowing her eyes time to adjust, she glanced around the room noticing with surprise, over in one corner, Kathryn deep in conversation with a big, handsome man. Kathryn’s eyes lifted from the man’s face, focusing on the newcomer and Storm watched as recognition dawned. Not quite sure what she wanted to do, Storm laconically lifted a hand in greeting. She watched as Kathryn spoke briefly to her companion then stood, beckoning Storm across. ‘Why not?’ Storm decided, ‘It might liven things up, anyway.’ She strolled across and Kathryn introduced her friend, Jonathon, who pulled out a chair, inviting Storm to join them.


Storm took a sidelong look at Jonathon, liking what she saw. She wondered at their relationship. ‘Should I ….?’ An imp of mischief prompted her. Kathryn seemed to sense her thoughts.

“Jonathon is an old friend of mine. Both Jon and Jenny, his wife, are very good friends.” letting Storm know, in no uncertain fashion, that he wasn’t on the market; and she wasn’t to try her feminine wiles on him. “Jon is the owner of the Crown Hotel, here in Perth. He also owns one in Harare and I’m helping him out by finding him an act to play over there. I’ve got a tentative arrangement with ‘Helter Skelter’. Do you know them, Storm?”


Storm did know Helter Skelter, having been rivals in a competition which the other band had won, years before. They had gone in slightly different directions, musically, since then and Helter Skelter had become a successful pub band.

“Yeah, I know them. They’re good. How long are they going to be in Zimbabwe?” Storm liked the slight surprise in Kathryn’s eyes at her geographical knowledge. ‘I could surprise you a hell of a lot more, if I felt like it.’

“Three weeks, starting the middle of next month.” Kathryn expanded, “I was over there when the hotel was being built, a year or so ago. It’s a beautiful country.” Storm could tell by the faraway look in Kathryn’s eyes that she was picturing it and the soft smile on her lips showed that the images were well loved.


Jonathon winked at Storm and elaborated a little.

“Kathryn was my ‘eyes’ over there. She planned the decor, the ambience and helped David with the planning of the type of entertainment needed. She knows exactly what we want for the bar. I’ve been trying to persuade her to be our booking agent over here but she’s refused. By the way, Kathryn, how are the plans for the book going? Got your special project yet? Or is it - ‘look in the archives for old files’?” Kathryn shook her head, “No, no bright ideas yet. I’ve been working with Storm’s band for the last week, so not had a lot of time to think about it.” Storm turned to Jonathon, watching Kathryn from the corner of her eye as she spoke.

“We’ve been trying to persuade Kathryn to be our manager; and we seem to have had the same luck as you.” She was gratified to see the astonishment in kd’s eyes, knowing her assertion would have been unexpected.

“Popular lady is our Kathryn.” Jonathon went to stand, “Well, ladies; I have to go. Jenny’s cooking a lamb roast; and nothing keeps me from that! Bye, love” he bent to kiss Kathryn’s cheek. “It was good to meet you, Storm. Keep on at her, you may have better luck than I did.”


Jonathon’s departure created a moment of silence. Storm sipped her coffee, her eyes straying around the room. Kathryn’s eyes were on Storm, an idea slowly forming in her mind.

“Did you mean that?” Storm didn’t pretend to misunderstand. She shrugged, “It seems the best thing for us. Don’t know about you. We’d have all the ‘top guns’,” this last being said with a grimace, “all pulling in the same direction. You seem to have some contacts around the place, so it could be of benefit to us. As I said, I don’t know what you’d get out of it, kd. Apart from the commission of course.” The idea in Kathryn’s head was taking form and an excitement was starting to show in her eyes. She leaned forward.

“I might just have a suggestion for you all. I’ll have to work out some details first but …..”

“Kathy? Is that you, Kathy darling?” The voice came from the woman who had just been shown to a seat at the table behind Jonathon’s empty chair. Storm saw Kathryn’s face flush up and watched with interest as her hand stilled, before she slowly looked up to face the newcomer.

“It is you! I could hardly recognise you! Just look at you! Your clothes! Your hair! Even your voice has changed! If I hadn’t known you so well, I swear I would never have recognised you!”


The long, staccato speech seemed to give Kathryn time to recover her equilibrium. Storm, who had been totally ignored by this perfectly dressed, strange woman, had time to observe at will. She was fascinated by the veil of wariness and caution which had come over Kathryn’s strong features, her elegant body a stillness of tension.

“Hello Bernice.” Kathryn’s voice was cool, reserved, her broad shoulders squared. “What brings you to Perth?”

“Oh, work, as ever. Darling, your book was so good! I felt very proud of being a part of it. How long have you been here now? It must be six years, mustn’t it? You’re looking so good as well.” Kathryn had recovered her manners and she broke in, looking across at Storm. “Storm, I’d like you to meet an old friend of mine from Melbourne, Bernice Sauvage. Bernice, this is Storm McInnes, a business associate.” Storm was intrigued at the inter-play between the two women. Kathryn’s explanation to Bernice, of the manner of their acquaintance, seemed unnecessary and, anyway, she couldn’t really see herself in the role of business associate. Bernice finally turned to Storm, examined her and, with a cool nod in her direction, obviously dismissed her. Storm’s hackles started to rise.


Bernice turned to her companions on the other table, “I won’t be a minute, darlings. I’ve just met a very close, old friend.” Turning once more her eyes travelled over Kathryn’s informal but still very smart clothes. She saw the rather severe hairstyle, the perfectly administered make-up and laughed, a tinkling sound which grated on Storm. “How different you look, Kathy. Whatever happened to the jeans and T-shirts you used to wear on a Sunday? And your hair! I’ve never seen it up before. You look a different person.” Her hand brushed Kathryn’s arm and Storm watched as the back of it trailed up to Kathryn’s shoulder. Storm was irritated, ‘Get your smarmy hands off her. Can’t you see she doesn’t like it.’ Storm restrained herself, with difficulty, from actually saying the words. She was acutely aware of the tension in Kathryn’s body and was surprised to find that she didn’t want to worsen the situation.


“Yes, yes, darlings! I’m coming. We have to meet, Kathy. What’s your number?” Kathryn was obviously reluctant to give it out.

“I can never guarantee when I’ll be there. How about making a time and day now? How long are you in town?”

“I was thinking of leaving next Friday but I think I’ll delay it for a while. Catch up with you. How about Thursday evening?”

“Yes, I think I’m free then. How about meeting in the bar in the Crown Hotel? Say; eight o-clock?” Bernice laughed once more and agreed, bending with the obvious intention of planting a perfumed kiss on Kathryn’s cheek. Storm noticed with amusement that Kathryn turned her head further than necessary and the lips only brushed against an ear. Another tinkle from Bernice, “It’s a date, darling. See you Thursday.” She wagged a playful finger, “Don’t you be late now.”


Storm watched as the tension slowly drained from Kathryn’s shoulders. She managed to restrain her curiosity; feeling, not for the first time, slightly unsettled by the unusual combination of the slightly masculine elements within Kathryn, which were softened by her feminine beauty. Kathryn finally turned to her, a rueful smile on her face. She shrugged her apology.

“Sorry, Storm. Bernice can be rather overwhelming; and I’m afraid her manners haven’t improved much. She was very rude. I apologise.” This apology rankled, as Storm didn’t want Kathryn to feel responsible for Bernice’s manners.

“That’s OK. Don’t think about it. It wasn’t your fault.” She decided to change the subject. “Hey! I’ve got one for you. Who sang ‘Along came Jones’?” Kathryn’s face screwed up in thought.

“I know it. I just can’t place it. Sing a few bars for me.” Storm sang, her voice deep.

‘and then along came Jones
tall, thin Jones
slow walking Jones
slow talking Jones
along came lonely, lanky Jones’. Kathryn was smiling before Storm had finished.

“Of course! It’s Ray Stevens. I’ve actually got a tape of his somewhere. What about ‘The Streak’? That’s my favourite. Storm liked the enthusiastic note in Kathryn’s voice as it corresponded to her own feelings.

“OK. Another one.” Storm thought for a while, before a slow smile appeared on her face. “You’ll never guess this one, kd. ‘Just like Eddie’,” Kathryn shook her head, an answering smile on her lips.

“I know how it goes. I know it’s about Eddie Cochrane. I’ve got no idea who sang it.”

“Heinz!” Storm was gloating now, “I don’t know what happened to him, he only had one or two hits. That was definitely one of them, though.”


They continued to test each other and, when they parted, it was on more amicable terms that they’d been at any time previously. Storm was glad she’d taken Kathryn’s attention from the ‘witchy-poo’ woman, as she’d started to think of Bernice. Kathryn’s last request had been intriguing. She’d asked Storm if she could arrange for the band to come around to her house in Maylands on the following night. She thought she may have a proposition for them. Storm had agreed and spent the time on the walk home wondering what it could be about. ‘Maybe she’s going to agree to manage us after all.’ She thought. ‘If she does, she’d better not expect me to change everything.’ Storm was still adamant.

Chapter 7

The man replaced the phone onto its cradle after letting it ring out. Where was she? He was disappointed, as he’d needed to hear her voice, needed to visualise her, listening to him.


He lay back on his bed and closed his eyes, thoughts of Storm swirling in his head. He knew it was only time before she’d want him as much as he wanted her. His hand moved and tightened as his visions of her cleared, grew, overwhelmed him.

***

Kathryn welcomed the four band members to her home. She showed them through the house, proud of its decor and furnishings. She took them through to the balcony with its peaceful views of the river. The glittering lights of the city in the background only enhanced the serenity of the water. She got the normal response from first time visitors; the vista never failing to impress. Returning inside, they settled into her comfortable, leather armchairs and Storm looked around, “Not real homely, though; is it? More like a show house really.” Kathryn felt a small stab of pain at the inferred criticism. She did have to acknowledge to herself, however, that she’d often thought the very same. Her voice was cool and held a hint of reproval, however, as she answered Storm.

“I suppose it’s what your personal taste is. I find this very comfortable and it suits me.” Storm shrugged carelessly and Kathryn wondered where their rapport of yesterday had gone. After getting drinks for everybody, noticing that Storm once more preferred a cool drink over the proffered alcoholic drink, Kathryn outlined her idea. The others listened quietly, then Kathryn recapped her proposition.

“I would manage you, full time; and you would allow me to make use of the experience by using it in my book. You wouldn’t be named of course and the circumstances would be described differently; but the band’s change of image would be the recurring theme throughout the book.” She looked at Storm, “You said yesterday that you didn’t know what I would get out of managing you. Well; with this arrangement I would get a lot.” She looked at them all, “I think everybody would benefit from it. What are your thoughts?”


The men asked questions, Storm remained quiet. Kathryn answered the questions as fully as she could, watching the little frown that remained on Storm’s face. She knew by now that Storm had a big influence on the men in the band and, though they’d outvoted her on the issue of the image changing, it wasn’t something that happened often. She turned her attention to Storm.

“What do you think, Storm?” Storm was pensive, before asking a question.

“How would the way you’d manage us now, differ from the way you would’ve managed us, if you had decided to before?” The wording was clumsy but Kathryn understood the meaning of the question.

“I wouldn’t do anything different, I promise. I wouldn’t invent situations that would make my book more exciting and commercial. It would be an honest exercise and if at the end of it, there is no material for the book; well, that’s the way it goes.”


This seemed to satisfy the men; and Kathryn was relieved when Storm unexpectedly agreed also. Her only proviso was that lawyers from both sides had to be involved with the writing up of the contract.

“I would expect us to be able to put a veto on anything that could be damaging to us.” Kathryn was thrown slightly by Storm’s unexpected professionalism, as it belied the somewhat careless and empty-headed image she had previously given. She decided not to pursue the puzzle, only being too pleased that her proposal had been accepted. She agreed immediately to Storm’s stipulations, as they were what she had already planned to include in the contract.


They continued to talk about the arrangements but Storm was getting restless, wandering about the big room. She interrupted the general discussion.

“Can I have a look around the rest of the house?” she asked of Kathryn.

“Certainly. Have a good look round. Be careful of George and Mildred, though. They’re around somewhere.” Storm presumed by Kathryn’s smiling face that they were not especially dangerous, so she walked out of the lounge to examine the split-level house.


When Storm hadn’t returned thirty minutes later, Kathryn excused herself from the men, going to look for her. She was finally found in Kathryn’s own bedroom. On Kathryn’s bed in fact. She had one cat draped across her chest and she was busy tickling the other one by her side.

“So you found G and M then? Or rather they espied you and found a comfortable chest to sleep on. What do you think of them?” Storm’s hand stopped tickling the ball of fluff at her side and a little pink nose pushed into it, demanding more.

“Pushy little devils aren’t they? I presume it’s Mildred that’s using me as a cat basket? Tortoiseshell cats always being female, I mean.”

“That’s right.” Kathryn agreed, adding that the comfort-loving cat wouldn’t get off by herself, “You’ll have to turf her off, when you’re ready. Cloud, Jim and Kenny are about ready to leave but they said you came in your own car, so: take your time. I’ll just go and see them out.”

“Hey, kd!’ Storm stopped her, before continuing with an observation.

“I like this room better than the rest. It seems like it’s got more character. Maybe more of your own character?” Her eyebrows were raised in question. Kathryn was non-committal, “See you in a while.”

***

Storm emerged from the bedroom, walking into the lounge to find Kathryn sipping a drink, listening to Simon and Garfunkel.

“Like a drink?”

“No, don’t get up. I’ll grab myself one.” She gave Kathryn a cheeky look, “I know where everything is!”


Kathryn watched her settle in another armchair, nursing a glass of milk. She listened with pleasure as Storm harmonised with Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, until the younger woman stopped singing and turned to Kathryn, “Where did you know that woman from?” Kathryn knew immediately who she meant and she chose her words carefully.

“I knew Bernice in Melbourne. When I first met her I was getting over a failed business venture.”

“Yes, I know,” Storm broke in, “I read your book last night.” Kathryn’s face showed astonishment.

“In one night?” At Storm’s nod, she shook her head in mock disbelief, “When you do something, you go the whole way, don’t you?” Storm nodded solemnly.

Kathryn looked at her, askance; but continued with her story.

“Well, after the business failed I had to defer the university course I was taking. No money, you see. I had to earn some, so I went to work in an hotel, as assistant manager. That’s where I learned a bit about the music industry. As it was my job to book the acts, I met quite a few agents.


That was when I first started writing the book and also about the time I first met Bernice. After I’d worked at the hotel for a year, Bernice persuaded me to leave and work at a college as a part-time lecturer on business management.. The reason for that was so that I could have more time to write my book. Bernice backed me financially to allow this to happen. I was very relieved that the book was enough of a success that I could pay her back in full. She was right to claim some credit for the book. Who knows: without her it may not have been written.”

“Bullshit!” Storm interjected, “You would have written it one way or another. It just would’ve taken a little longer. How come you lost contact with the wit…er, with Bernice? I’d have thought you must’ve been pretty close?”


Kathryn leaned back, allowing her memories to intrude. Storm didn’t know how right she was. They had been very close. Partners, in fact. Emotional partners – lovers. They were lovers for two years, with Bernice complaining, almost from the start, about Kathryn’s obvious ‘gay’ look. It wasn’t surprising that Bernice had been astonished at the change in her whole appearance. She was a completely different person now. It had been a painful transition but she’d got through it. Remembering the Kate she’d been six years before, she was still able to feel sympathy towards her. She hadn’t really deserved the criticism. It had been hard for her, as all she’d wanted to do was to proclaim their relationship from the rooftops, proud of their love for each other but Bernice had insisted it be kept totally secret.


Towards the end of their second year together, the book was completed, all but the editing and Kathryn was still lecturing at the college. A young student had started following her, a rather unbalanced girl, who had just realised her own sexuality and had become infatuated with Kathryn, her lecturer. Kathryn had laughed it off, not giving it any serious thought, apart from nuisance value. Bernice had wanted her to report it to the police but she’d refused, not giving credence to Bernice’s warnings of danger. She had received many phone calls from the girl, had seen her loitering outside her flat and was frequently accosted on campus. She had tried talking to the girl, explaining that she was in a relationship; but nothing worked. The girl continued to stalk her. Bernice had been angry, saying that Kathryn had brought it on herself by being so outwardly gay.


Kathryn had tried to calm Bernice, saying the girl would soon get over it. She didn’t feel she was in any kind of physical danger.

“After all,” she’d told Bernice, “the girl professes to be crazy about me, so why would she hurt me?” One day, a situation had occurred that neither of them had foreseen. The girl had actually trapped Bernice in Kathryn’s flat and threatened her with a knife. Luckily Kathryn had arrived home and they’d managed to overpower the thin wisp of a girl.


In the ensuing trial Bernice had made it clear to everyone that she only had a passing acquaintance with Kathryn, making her lover feel betrayed. The girl had got a suspended sentence and a court order put on her never to approach Kathryn again. They never saw her again but the damage was done. Kathryn and Bernice split up in less than amicable circumstances and this was the first time they’d met since.


Kathryn came back to the present to find Storm watching her.

“Oh, sorry. What did you ask?”

“No, it doesn’t matter. Are you looking forward to seeing her on Thursday?”

“No,” As Kathryn spoke, she realised it was the truth. “I’m not actually looking forward to seeing her at all. I only hope I can make it a short meeting.” Storm’s expression could have held a tinge of sympathy, until she yawned and stood up to leave.

“Well; I’m off. Thanks for the drinks. I’ll get our lawyers to contact you tomorrow. No point hanging around, is there?”

“Wait a moment, Storm. I’ve got a good one for you. Who sang ‘Jesamine’?” Storm threw back her head and laughed.

“The Casuals’. You’ll have to do better than that, kd. Keep thinking. See you soon.”


Kathryn shut the door behind Storm and walked into the bedroom.

“Mildred, you’re such a slut. Close your legs for goodness sake. Well, guys. What did you think of her? She certainly seemed to like you two, so that’s a plus isn’t it. No, George. You know I have to get ready for bed before we have our cuddle. OK OK, just one stroke. Mmm, you’re both gorgeous, you know?” She prepared for bed, thinking about the conversation with Storm. She hated having always to choose her words, to make sure nothing slipped out. She thought ruefully about the Kathy she’d left behind, always saying the first thing that came into her head, always honest. There were times when she missed her, times when she wasn’t too keen on the Kathryn she had become.


She remembered all the seminars based on changing image, the many courses and talks she’d been to on the subject, when she’d first arrived in Perth. She vividly remembered the day she realised that she could give better talks, organise better seminars than the ones she was attending. It had taken a while but her one-person company had blossomed into a thriving business: and her transformation was complete. She knew she shouldn’t complain about the little drawbacks, the not so comfortable clothes, the time spent on hair and face and the controlled way of acting and speaking. No. She knew everything had panned out just as she’d planned it. She didn’t even miss the closeness of a partner, having decided that her position didn’t lend itself to a relationship. She had made the decision, when she was making the changes to herself, that love was all in the past. Love; and pain.


She’d found it easy tonight to casually mention the losing of her business. She would have found it much more painful to talk about the betrayal of her partner of the time, Kristy. She’d met Kristy when she was twenty four. Together, they had bought a book-shop, which had become a thriving little business. They’d sold some of the more alternate books and provided a small café service and a friendly face for their customers at the same time. After two years the bookstore was going so well that Kathryn had decided to go back to university, to add to her degrees in Business Management and English Literature. She decided on Psychology as that was where her interest lay.


After the first year she’d wanted the book-shop audited as usual but Kristy had kept putting it off. Eventually, Kathryn had organised it and had been shocked to find the business in the red. She could have accepted it, had it only been bad management and bad decisions by Kristy that had made the business fail. Kristy had pleaded to be left in sole charge while Kathryn was studying and it came out that Kristy had been milking the business, sharing the proceeds with an old girlfriend. Kathryn had not been too surprised, when she was eventually told that the old girlfriend wasn’t so much ‘old’ as ‘current’.


“Move over, you two. Mum’s coming in!” She pushed the two cats aside but immediately felt the imprint of paws on her body as she was climbed on. The cats went through their own particular rituals of paddling and circling, then settled down to sleep. She thought once more of the two ex-girlfriends who had given her the most pain.

“Bugger them all!” She felt relieved at the use of such an expletive; and the cats didn’t seem to mind in the least! She flicked on the remote control of her TV, pressing the ‘play’ button on the VCR and Storm’s face filled the screen. She pressed ‘mute’ and watched the play of expressions on Storm’s mobile face during the performance. After a while she sighed and switched off the equipment. She fell asleep with the words of a song going through her mind.

‘When Jesamine goes
a part of me knows
I’m not really living
A butterfly child
so free and so wild
and so full of living.
What can you say
when a girl doesn’t want to know
it’s too far away
and she makes my life
a dre..ea..ea..eam.
When Jesamine stays
though time goes fast
this is my world at last
beautiful days lost in her eyes
but then the whole world dies…

Chapter 8

Storm looked at the clock on the wall on Thursday evening; it was 7:30 p.m. She felt restless, wanting to go out. Specifically, she wanted to go to the Crown hotel, as she was intrigued with Kathryn’s meeting with Bernice. She wanted to watch the sequel to their previous encounter. She’d called Kenny earlier to ask if he could take her but he had a special evening lined up. He’d been evasive when she’d asked if it was serious. It sounded as if he wanted it to be but wasn’t too sure about it.

“Well, good luck. Hope it goes great.” Storm had been supportive.


The band had been working hard since Monday, discussing which songs to have in the new act and then rehearsing the music. The new compositions had been completed and incorporated into the show and Cloud felt that it was coming together well, though Storm was still sceptical, thinking it too tame and soft. The order of songs was very important and they had experimented, trying a few variations. A phone call from Kathryn on Tuesday morning with a request had proved providential. They had needed one more fast song to keep the balance of the act. They had a couple of old hits in mind but they hadn’t seemed quite right. Kathryn had rung to say she was organising for the new act to be videoed by her friend whenever they had something ready. She’d been quite diffident in her request to Storm, “I don’t suppose you’ve considered Laura Brannigan’s ‘Gloria’ for the act have you? It’s one of my favourites and I think your voice would be great for it.” Storm had been reserved but interested, as she remembered that the song had been one of the first hits that she’d learnt the words to, at about seven years of age. Cloud found an old music sheet for it and they’d tried it out. It’d been perfect for the gap in the act and Storm had really enjoyed singing it.


Storm made the decision to ring a few friends regardless of Kathryn’s recommendation not to. She was sure that some of them would accompany her to the Crown. She could make a point of telling Kathryn that ‘Gloria’ had fitted in quite well. She rang Troy, an old friend and was lucky enough to catch him in, with another few mates. Troy told her they’d missed her company and gladly agreed to go to the Crown with her.

“Not for too long, though. We’re planning on going to ‘The Dive' later. Come with us, it’ll be really rocking.” Storm said she’d see how she felt later in the evening. Storm was a little wary when she heard that one of the friends with Troy was Liam. Liam had proved to be quite a nuisance in the past, pawing her and refusing to acknowledge Storm’s boundaries, being sure that he was missing out on what everyone else was getting. She shrugged, confidant that she could handle him, especially early in an evening. She offered to pick them all up and run them in as she, as usual, wouldn't be drinking alcohol.


They arrived at the Crown and Storm immediately saw Kathryn deep in conversation with Bernice, their heads close together. Storm found herself feeling a little piqued at Kathryn’s closeness to the woman. After all, Kathryn had insisted that she wasn’t looking forward to seeing her ex-friend tonight. Storm and her group of friends were on the opposite side of the dimmed bar and Storm knew she hadn’t yet been noticed by Kathryn. Troy and the other men had already had a few drinks before leaving home so were a bit boisterous and were quite receptive to Storm’s suggestion of dancing. The dance floor was already quite crowded and they joined the throng, some of the men asking other women to dance.


As the next hour wore on, Troy’s friends became more and more noisy and Storm was becoming more extravagant with her dance movements, her energy appearing boundless. The glances she frequently threw in Kathryn’s direction showed Kathryn now sitting upright and Bernice leaning forward, sometimes placing a hand on top of Kathryn’s hand. The more irritated Storm got, the more outrageous her behaviour, unconsciously wanting to attract Kathryn’s attention. The noise they were making finally seemed to drag Kathryn’s attention from her companion. Storm caught the movement of Kathryn’s head in their direction, just as one of the men clasped her from behind. Still in the grip of an unreasoned anger, she let her head drop back onto the hard chest and circled her hips backwards against the heat of his groin.


Storm wasn’t sure just why she was feeling so annoyed with Kathryn but this knot of anger coiled within her and she felt the urge to punish the older woman. Acting the way that Kathryn had specifically asked her not to, seemed as good a way as any. The music stopped and Liam swung her round, grinding his erection into her pelvis. His mouth came down on hers and she felt his teeth hard against her lips. She forced herself to relax, trying not to struggle against the unwanted intimacy. As soon as his mouth released hers, she hissed at him to release her immediately. She could see the pale outline of Kathryn’s face in the gloom and could imagine the disapproving look on her face and she felt her anger dissipate as suddenly as it had come. It came to her that maybe she didn’t want to be the cause of that disapproval, not tonight anyway! She pushed the unwanted man from her with distaste and made her way towards the ‘Ladies room’ to try to cool the heat that the unexpected feeling of shame had brought to her face.


She stood in front of the mirror, trying to analyse the confusing mixture of feelings she’d had during the evening. She had barely begun, however, when the outside door opened and Kathryn walked in. They stared at each other in the mirror, one face young and flushed, the other looking pained, almost hurt. Storm couldn’t bear the silence, so went on the offensive.

“Shit! I’ve got to go out sometimes. You can’t expect me to stay in every night!” Kathryn’s gaze didn’t falter, she examined Storm, taking in the heated face, the fiery eyes, “God, she’s gorgeous!” A voice in Kathryn’s head groaned. She shook her head slightly to rid herself of the rogue thought.

“I didn’t intend for you to stay in, Storm. All I was asking for was a little less ostentation, a little more control. Is that too much to ask, when your musical career is on the line?” Kathryn’s voice became tired, drained of emotion. Storm had time to wonder at it, to wonder what type of discussion with Bernice had brought this look of exhaustion to Kathryn’s face. Storm felt an unexpected desire to smooth the frown away with her fingers, to stroke the worry from Kathryn’s face. She did neither. Her eyes broke the reflected contact and she turned away, shaken by the force of her need. She groped for words; in her confusion forgetting what they’d been talking about. She grasped at a memory, desperate to bury her thoughts.

“Thanks for the suggestion of us playing ‘Gloria’.” Storm was uncharacteristically enthusiastic. “It’s really great, you ought to hear it.” Kathryn’s face cleared into a smile and, back in control of her thoughts, she spoke briskly.

“That’s good, Storm. Any idea when you’ll be ready for Reg to bring down the camera?”

“Any time.” Storm’s reply was quick, “Yeah, anytime you want to now, we’re all ready. I’ve gotta go now, my friends’ll be wondering where I am. See ya.” Storm started for the door, eager to make her escape.

“Bye, Storm. Take care.”

***

When Kathryn emerged from the rest room, there was no sign of Storm or her friends. She looked across to the table that she'd shared with Bernice and sighed with relief. ‘Thank God that’s finished with!’ Bernice had started by reminding Kathryn of the enjoyable times they’d had. These reminders had had little effect on Kathryn. She had continued, however, into bedroom reminiscences, making Kathryn uncomfortable and slightly aroused. She knew that Bernice herself wasn’t the attraction, it was the memory of the pure excitement and utter pleasure of making love with a woman. She hadn’t thought about the physical aspect of a relationship for a long time and Bernice’s presence was bringing back memories of sensation, long ago put behind her. She’d had to lean back in her chair, needing distance between herself and Bernice.


Bernice had been pushing for a return of their relationship, a reconciliation and Kathryn had been made to feel like an object, now wrapped to look good and attractive, whereas before it had been drab and unwanted. Bernice’s complacency had rankled, her assumption that Kathryn would jump at the chance to renew their previous intimacy was insulting. Kathryn had finally been forthright with her and when Bernice had realised the futility of the exercise, she’d pulled back her chair with a flourish, to leave. As Bernice had risen Kathryn had spotted Storm on the dance-floor, in the arms of a man.


Bernice’s dramatic exit had been totally lost on Kathryn as she’d watched the man turn Storm in his arms and passionately kiss her. Kathryn’s recent reminders of her own sexual feelings, long submerged, rose to the fore and in her imagination she had pictured Storm in her own arms, the lips being crushed by her own. Her heart pounded erratically as she’d watched Storm put the man from her and go into the ‘Ladies’. With legs that were still trembling slightly from the vivid imaginings, Kathryn had followed Storm. The heavy silence that had built was broken by the figure in the mirror lifting her chin and remonstrating with her. Kathryn had recovered her equilibrium, being left only with a feeling of exhaustion brought on by the emotion of the whole evening.


Kathryn was feeling drained when she arrived home and she reasoned that her tiredness had been a factor the whole evening. Seeing Storm straight after the confrontation with Bernice had confused her feelings regarding her. She accepted that Storm was very attractive but knew that her interest in the young woman was purely professional and, had it been personal, she would have to put it down to a newly-found maternal feeling. Quite happy with this explanation, Kathryn prepared for bed and told George and Mildred all about her evening. They were suitably sympathetic and agreed with all her reasonings, as they dozed off to sleep curled up on top of her.

***

The man heard the tirade from Storm with a smile on his lips.

“Listen fuckhead! I don’t want to hear your fucking breathing down the phone! If you’ve got something to say – then say it and be damned. If not I’m going to hang up and leave the fucking phone off the hook!


The man smiled again, her face vivid in his mind. He’d just watched her go into her house. He didn’t know where she’d been as she’d already left when he arrived at her house earlier in the evening. He enjoyed the challenge of following her in her car. Sometimes he lost her but most times he knew exactly where she went.

“OK dickhead, I’m hanging up. Get a life, you prick!” He heard the crash in his ear as she banged the phone down. His breathing came even faster and he groaned his pleasure as his body convulsed. ‘This one’s for you, Storm! It’s all for you baby!’

Chapter 9

Kathryn leaned her head back with a feeling of relief, tempered somewhat with a tinge of uncertainty. Had she made the right decision? Her thoughts were interrupted as her attention was drawn to the couple to her right, their hands clasped tightly. Her glance travelled upwards and she saw Storm’s eyes shut fast. Kenny was looking relaxed so Kathryn guessed that it was Storm who was feeling nervous and needed reassurance.


Kathryn questioned herself once more. Had it been the right thing to do? Just nine short days before, she’d received a phone call from the manager of Helter Skelter. He’d told her that the band had been involved in a car accident. His own son, the lead singer of the band, had sustained the most serious injuries, including a collapsed lung and ruptured spleen. Most of the band had received broken bones and bad bruising and the prognosis had been a full two months recovery period, meaning of course that they couldn’t fulfil their contract with Kathryn to go to Harare. He’d apologised to Kathryn, on their behalf, for leaving her in the lurch but his thoughts were obviously on his young charges and he couldn’t suggest an alternative act.


The idea had crept up on Kathryn in the following twelve hours. Was it ethical, she had to decide, to propose that her own clients fulfil the booking? She also had to assure herself that the band was capable of performing to the sort of clientele which frequented the ‘Crown of Harare’. If so, there was also the logistics to deal with. Did they have current passports? Could the airline tickets be transferred?


A phone call to Qantas assured her the tickets were transferable. The call to Cloud gave her the information that they did hold current passports, having all had overseas holidays the previous year and they would need booster injections only. He was excited at the prospect but a little nervous, having plenty of questions. Kathryn had arranged to meet with them to explain as many details as possible. The main points of the contract were the free airline tickets, free accommodation and meals. There would be a small fee paid but their main benefit would be the experience and the exposure. The contract would run for three weeks, from Saturday, 19th of October until Saturday 9th of November inclusive. They would leave Perth on the Wednesday before and head for home on the Tuesday following their last performance. Though they were reasonably sure that the new act was ready, they were happy for Kathryn to arrange for Reg to video their complete new repertoire the following day.


While on the telephone to the travel agent transferring the tickets, she was asked what would be happening to the fifth ticket, Helter Skelter having five members? On the spur of the moment, Kathryn had made the decision to travel with the band, justifying it to herself that it would be good research for the book and a chance to catch up with David. The band had been obviously relieved when they heard, even Storm had looked pleased.

“Hey, that’s cool kd.” she’d said dryly, with an almost straight face, “You can even change our nappies, if you like!”


The video had been impressive and Kathryn had agreed with most of the band’s choices. They would put in a few variations so as not to have the same show every night but the mixture for each performance had to be just right. Kathryn had felt vindicated at that point for her assurances to both David and Jonathon that the act was ready to perform. Now, as she sat on the African bound jet, she found herself a little worried. Not about their playing capabilities; or even Storm’s charisma, which had been compelling even on the video. No, she was mainly worried about Storm’s clothes for the act and her possible impulsive, outrageous behaviour. She hadn’t seen Storm’s new clothes, she was only hoping they would be conservative enough for the cocktail and dance bar in the ‘Crown of Harare’. After their confrontation at the Crown Hotel in Perth, they hadn’t talked at any depth and Kathryn’s temporary disturbance of mind, following that meeting, had been put aside with many plausible explanations.

***

The G-force of the take-off pressed Kathryn back in her aisle seat. She always enjoyed the take-off but disliked landings, as the pressure changes affected her ears, causing pain for up to 24 hours after landing. She noticed that Cloud and Jim, in the seats in front of them, had a spare seat alongside them and, on this 12-13 hour leg to Johannesburg, this seat may come in useful for someone to stretch out and get more sleep.


The plane levelled out at their cruising height and the first meal was served. Storm appeared to have recovered her equilibrium and was talking quietly with Kenny. They were travelling through the long night in this first leg so, after the movie and their second meal, they settled down for whatever sleep they could get. Cloud had suggested to Kenny that he join them to allow Kathryn and Storm more room.


Grateful to the men, Kathryn and Storm had arranged their positions, with Kathryn now in the window seat, to allow Storm to curl up on two seats.

“We can swap over later if necessary.” Kathryn had insisted to Storm so, with blankets and pillows, they settled down to try to sleep.


Kathryn awoke, instinctively knowing that she’d slept for a long time. In her earlier, semi-conscious state, she’d been aware of Storm’s restlessness but thought that her fellow traveller had been quiet and still now for quite a while. Kathryn attempted to stretch her cramped legs, only to become aware of a weight on one of them. Raising her head from the back of the seat, she saw Storm’s slumbering figure curled up on the two seats with her head in Kathryn’s lap, a pillow half under her head, half out. Kathryn’s own hand was draped over Storm’s waist, within centimetres of her left breast. ‘All I’d have to do is stretch my fingers.’ The sleepy thought brought Kathryn to full wakefulness She twisted her watch round with her other hand, so as not to lift the hand from Storm’s warm body. She was pleased and surprised to see it was already 5:45 am. She’d slept for almost six hours, which was unusual for her when flying. She noticed that some of her fellow passengers had opened their blinds, showing the first faint flush of dawn. The excitement of nearing their journey's end was starting to build up around them, with sounds of whispers and muted laughter.


Kathryn eased up her own blind, trying not to wake Storm in the process. She saw they were still over the ocean but, even as she watched, they passed over some tiny islands, clustered together, the sand of the beach ghostly in the half-light. She guessed that they were about to cross the African coast and she felt her own excitement build at the thought of once more experiencing all the pleasures of this great continent.


She looked down at Storm’s sleeping face and her mind switched to the enigma that was Storm: the flagrant promiscuity that clashed sometimes with a touch of old-fashioned values. She thought about Storm's outspoken and often outrageous behaviour that belied the occasional hint of serious and mature thinking. Kathryn couldn’t make her out, nor her own feelings toward the girl. She often disliked her intensely, occasionally liked her a lot – but was never indifferent to her. She always seemed to provoke some sort of reaction in Kathryn, though the fleeting attraction she’d felt, on that one occasion, had been firmly pushed aside. The visions of Storm in the arms of the man outside the lift, raising her face to his, pressing her lips to his mouth. The picture of her pushing her hips backwards into the groin of the man on the dance floor, demonstrating her blatant heterosexuality, kept intruding into Kathryn’s mind.


Now, however, as Storm’s warm breath found its way through the fabric of Kathryn’s slacks onto her thigh, warming it, transporting the tingling sensation along nerve ends towards her groin, Kathryn struggled to retain the visions, needing them for her self-preservation. ‘Stop it!’ she admonished herself, giving an involuntary jerk. Storm stirred and yawned.

“Aah!” she groaned, as she turned onto her back, stretching her legs across the aisle. Her eyes squinted open. “Oh! Hi, kd. Sorry. Have I been using you as a pillow? You should’ve kicked me off.” Kathryn smiled down at the face nestling comfortably on her lap. The sleep-flushed face looked even younger than normal and the tousled hair framed her face with unaccustomed curls.

“Angel of the morning.” She realised she’d said it out loud. Storm’s lifting head dropped down again onto Kathryn’s thighs. Her reply was very quick.

“Two versions. One American, which I don’t know. One English which was by Merrilee Rush. Not bad for this time of the morning huh?”

“No, not bad at all.” Kathryn had to laugh. “How do you feel? Refreshed?” Storm sat up and pushed the hair from her eyes. Another yawn interrupted her assent and she accompanied it with a satisfying stretch.

“Yeah, I feel really good. Bit hungry, in fact.”

“Well.” Kathryn laughed, “You won’t have to wait too long for breakfast. We’ve just crossed the African coast and the dawn is catching up with us, fast. Would you like to swap seats to look through the window?” Storm agreed with thanks and Kathryn went to freshen up in the tiny cubicle. She noticed on her return that the three men all appeared to be asleep, so she quietly slid into the seat beside Storm.

“Why are there so many fires?” Storm wanted to know.

“Bush fires, out of control. This area is so many miles from any real habitation that the fires just have to burn themselves out. Sometimes they have a front hundreds of miles wide!”


They watched in friendly silence, broken only by the occasional question or the pointing out of an unusual feature. More of the other passengers were stirring and voices were heard from the seat in front indicating that the men were now awake. Kathryn regretted the end of the fleeting harmony between herself and Storm, hoping that the rapport would continue over the next three weeks.


Breakfast consumed and cleared away, they watched the small townships change to larger towns as they prepared for the final phase of the trip. Kathryn, as usual, dreaded the descent but this time was also worried about Storm.

“Are you OK with landings?” she asked in a quiet tone. Storm shrugged, nonchalantly, assuring her that she was fine. A minute later Storm turned to her.

“Actually, that’s a lie. Landings aren’t as bad as take-offs but no, I don’t like them. Have you a spare hand I can grip if it gets too hairy?” Kathryn lifted up the hand closest to Storm.

“It’s there if you need it. Mind you, if my pain becomes unbearable you might just finish with a crushed hand!” She explained the problem she always had with landing and Storm took her hand.

“Oh, well. We’ll just have to help each other through it, hey kd?” Kathryn nodded her agreement and they clasped hands as the plane began its long descent into Johannesburg for the two-hour stopover before the final flight.


When they boarded the next flight from Johannesburg to Harare, Storm followed Kathryn into a row of seats, with Cloud joining them. Storm reached for Kathryn’s hand once more as the huge jet engines built up their revs, before hurtling down the runway. Kathryn talked to Storm throughout the take-off and Storm occasionally answered, even opening her eyes at one point. When the seat belt sign went off, Storm relaxed once more. Kathryn was curious, asking what Storm was looking forward to the most.

“Oh, everything.” Storm was expansive, her arms waving wide “Seeing the country, learning a little of the culture, playing the gigs. Just everything.” Kathryn was captivated by her show of enthusiasm. Storm continued, “I’m also looking forward to getting some full nights of sleep.” Kathryn looked questioningly at her. “Oh, it’s just these damn phone calls I keep getting. They’re a pain in the butt!”

“What phone calls?”

“Didn’t I tell you about my secret admirer? He rings at all times of the night with his deep, sexy breathing. Dickhead! He rings in the daytime too sometimes and just says my name.” Kathryn was worried.

“You didn’t tell me about him. Have you been to the police?”

“Nah. He’s harmless. I can’t be bothered.”


Cloud broke in, speaking directly to Kathryn.

“I’m not so sure. Storm thinks she’s been followed a couple of times in her car.”

“Stop fussing, Cloud. I lost him every time, didn’t I? Bloody Torana drivers think they’re so good!”

“Yes; but if it’s the guy I’ve seen hanging around outside occasionally, then he also knows where you live. Personally, I don’t like it.”

“Neither do I.” Kathryn’s brow was puckered. “I want you to report it to the police when we get back to Perth.” Memories of her own experiences made her voice sharp. Storm’s head lifted, her chin jutting out and Kathryn realised she’d put her back up once more.

“I’ll do whatever I see fit.” Storm’s voice was cool as she looked out at the ground ten thousand metres below her. Kathryn looked at Cloud and sighed. ‘Well, the peace didn’t last too long did it, Kathryn?’ she mused silently, as Storm stood and excused herself to get past Cloud. After her trip to the washroom Storm sat down next to Kenny and remained there for the rest of the flight. ‘Presumably,’ thought Kathryn, a little regretfully, ‘gripping Kenny’s hand.’ as the plane brought them safely down to land.

Chapter 10

Storm awoke and stretched luxuriantly in the spacious bed and looked around, pleasurably. The Crown had provided her with a large room that housed two double beds. The three men had opted to share the suite, which had surprised Kathryn, who had obviously thought that Storm and Kenny would share. Kathryn was given the single room she’d occupied previously. The first week had been pretty hectic and not without the odd, small problem but they’d found David to be both friendly and helpful and Storm reflected that Kathryn always seemed very relaxed in his company, apparently on very close terms with him.


Their first couple of performances hadn’t been up to their own high expectations but the customers had certainly liked them. Storm had had to admit to herself that the band’s act was an improvement on the old performance but she was careful not to show too much approval, especially to Kathryn. In the peaceful, idyllic atmosphere of Harare, she was having to work harder to maintain her facade of rebelliousness and she was forgetting the pretence for longer and longer periods of time and, when she did remember her act, it seemed to lack substance and fire, even to herself. When they had first performed on the previous Saturday, she’d seen Kathryn look doubtfully at her wide, see-through silk pants and cut-off top that barely covered her unfettered breasts. Storm had been ready for a battle but Kathryn had delayed her comments until she’d seen the customers’ reaction and then had acceded openly that they’d obviously liked her attire. Storm had been surprised at her own relief that she didn’t have to have another clash with the other woman. ‘Must be the laid-back way of life over here.’ she’d decided.


Most of the band’s problems on the first Saturday and Sunday had come from too little rehearsal time on the new act and not communicating properly with each other on stage. They had rehearsed on Monday and Tuesday and, on the previous night, had put on a much more polished performance. Storm still thought the show was a little subdued and would’ve preferred to incorporate more ‘rock’ and more feeling in it. Kathryn’s assurances that the sound system was excellent had been proved correct and the set-up in the cocktail bar dance floor was the best Storm had seen.


As they didn’t have to play that evening and they hadn’t scheduled a rehearsal, Kathryn had arranged for them to go on a day Safari and now, as Storm showered, she felt an excitement building. Her love of all animals was certainly going to be assuaged if Kathryn’s promises proved correct. The Safari included a side trip to the Lion and Cheetah Park where they’d have the opportunity of seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. There was the promise of seeing the very rare white rhinos, also giraffe, zebra and the myriad of bird life. The day promised to be fine once more, with a projected high of 28 degrees Celsius. Storm looked at her watch as she slipped it onto her wrist: almost time to go down to grab a quick breakfast before the minibus picked them up at 9 am.


Kathryn had been on this Safari before but had insisted that she had to experience it all again. Storm hadn’t seen much of Kathryn since they’d arrived the previous Thursday. She’d seemed to be spending a lot of time with David, so Storm had prowled the city with one or more of the band members, investigating all the sights. She’d found Harare fascinating, with the locals friendly and helpful, though numerous. For every job, there seemed to be three or four locals sharing it. Waiters at the hotel fell over each other trying to serve the customers.


Everything was cheap, from food and drink to transport. A taxi ride right across the city cost about ten Zim dollars, the equivalent of $1.25 Australian! The city was very clean and beautiful, with manicured parks dotted here and there. The weather had been perfect and Storm had thoroughly enjoyed her first few days. She had relaxed as she hadn’t done in years. Today, however, was going to be something special, she just knew it!


Storm met her companions in the dining room, noticing that Kathryn, like herself, was wearing shorts and top. Storm’s eyes went once more to Kathryn’s brown legs: a legacy, Kathryn had told them, of many years of tennis, summer and winter. Kathryn’s hair was loose today and Storm noted the way it cascaded over her shoulders and framed her face, making her look years younger.


David wasn’t joining them on their day trip and Storm was oddly pleased. It wasn’t that she disliked David: on the contrary she’d found him charming and friendly to them all. It was just the way he always seemed to monopolise Kathryn and take all her attention. ‘Not that I want any of Kathryn’s attention!’ Storm assured herself. The guys all liked David and she’d seen Kenny’s eyes watch him with special interest! Though the band all knew that Kenny was gay, it wasn’t an open secret. Storm mentally wished Kenny luck; thinking, with a touch of annoyance, that he apparently had a serious rival in Kathryn.

***

The minibus arrived on time and they piled in. There were four others on the trip beside themselves and they said good morning to the two couples, one from Britain and one non English-speaking Dutch couple. The van rattled and wheezed through the outer suburbs before it hit open road. Once in top gear it appeared to run more smoothly, so the band’s hopes were raised that they would return some time that day!


They entered the lion-park through two sets of gates and the van huffed and puffed along the track in second gear, over the small potholes for a few hundred metres. They came upon a group of cheetahs enjoying an early morning meal. Pale muzzles stained red with blood, they ignored the parked vehicle. The guide told them that their food was thrown from the back of a truck on a daily basis so there was no need for them to kill. He pointed out the pale stripes on their faces: the markings that differentiated them from leopards. Kathryn had her video camera trained on them throughout and was thrilled when they walked to within a metre of the bus.


Through another set of double gates and they were amongst the lions. The Dutch couple slid their window shut but the Australians left their rear windows open, confident that they could close them quicker than any lion could put his claws or head through! They watched the cubs playing alongside their mothers with antics as cute as any kitten. The watchful eyes of the mother made Storm quip that they looked just like Kathryn’s eyes! Kathryn laughed, too happy to take umbrage on such a lovely day. The serene, male lions looked totally at peace with the world, yawning hugely and laying back in the sun, their tails flicking at the surprisingly few flies around. Again Kathryn’s video camera was busy and the flash of cameras was constant. Storm was very quiet, absorbing the feeling, carving it into her memory. Kathryn touched her arm, making her start.

“Sorry, Storm. I just wanted you to watch this.” She pointed to where one small cub was climbing onto the back of his sibling to reach his mother. The mother would lick him and he’d fall off, only to climb on again.

“Persistent little devil, isn’t he? Not too smart, maybe; but definitely persistent. Must be a male!” Kathryn laughed her agreement and pointed her camera back to the little pantomime.


Leaving the park, they went down the road to the place the guide called the ‘nursery’. They soon found out why. There were lots of enclosures with small animals in. They small group was escorted by the ranger into a small compound that contained three lion cubs. They were introduced to Lucy, Simba and Oscar, who greeted them by rolling over and asking to have their tummies rubbed. In answer to Storm’s question, the ranger reassured the group that none of these babies had been removed from their mothers. They had all been abandoned and would have died without the care they were being given. Oscar was the pushiest of the three, as well as the largest, being seven months old and bigger than a German Shepherd. His big head lifted off the floor any time his current scratcher paused for too long. Simba put his paws around Jim’s legs and was chastised. The ranger assured them the cubs would never put their claws out but he told Simba once more that it was bad manners, just as it would be bad manners to bite!


Kathryn heard Storm softly call her name and turned to see Oscar halfway through the arch made by Storm’s legs. As Kathryn started the camera recording, Oscar turned and licked the back of Storm’s leg.

“For luck!” Kathryn told Storm as Oscar backed out again before lifting his head for Storm to scratch it. Kathryn turned the camera to Storm’s face, capturing the entranced look on her face.

***

They had lunch at the adjoining café and Storm was still looking enraptured. Kathryn kept looking into Storm’s face, comparing it with the slightly sulky expression that Storm normally wore, ‘or rather – used to wear!’ Kathryn realised that that particular expression hadn’t been in evidence for quite a long time. To take her mind off Storm’s looks, she asked the band in general about their feelings and opinions on the new act. The men discussed the problems they’d had and how they were getting round them. On the whole they were pleased with the way it was going. As usual, Storm didn’t join in with the general discussion and Kathryn had to ask, to get a response from the less voluble woman.

“It’s too dull. There’s not enough fast stuff. Nothing I can get my teeth into.”

“I thought ‘Black Velvet’ went down particularly well on Sunday,” Kathryn pointed out, “and ‘Gloria’ was terrific last night.”. Storm smiled.

“Yeah, it was pretty good, wasn’t it? It needs more, though. I feel I’m just standing there like a stuffed dummy.” Kathryn laughed aloud, head thrown back.

“Hardly!” Her expression changed, became serious. “Well, add some more then. Move a bit more. You haven’t done Shania Twain’s ‘Man, I feel like a woman’ yet. That was superb the night I watched you sing it.” Storm looked wary, as if she thought there was a catch.

“Are you dinkum, kd? I didn’t think you wanted any of that stuff in.”

“I think you can do the popular rock songs. In fact I think the act would benefit from incorporating them. Just nothing with really controversial lyrics, OK?”

“Hey, cool! OK guys, rehearsal tomorrow and Friday. We’re going to ‘Rock the night away’ on Friday night!”

“Just one more thing, Storm.” Kathryn tried to make use of the present feeling of cameradie. “I’ve asked you before but I’ll try again. Can you please not wander around Harare swinging a shoulder bag around. It’s OK here, of course in the bush but Harare is a poor city and your bag would have to be very tempting to some of the poorer residents.” Storm’s face closed and she turned a stony look on Kathryn.

“I’ve told you I won’t have you baby-sitting me. I think I’m quite capable of looking after my own passport, tickets and money and, if I prefer to carry them with me rather than leave them in the hotel room or safe, then that’s my decision.” Kathryn put up her hands in a placating gesture, not wanting the earlier, amicable mood to be lost.

“OK, OK, Storm. Whatever you say. Let’s forget about it now, hey?” Storm’s face was still for a while, then the eyes crinkled up as her mouth curved into a smile. “Yes. The day’s too glorious to fight. Where to, next?”


They all piled back into the minibus, noticing that the roof had now been removed, letting the golden sunshine bathe them. The guide told them they would now be entering the game-reserve that was the start of thousands of square miles of reserved land. There were no predatory animals in this area so they would see herds of animals peacefully grazing. He told them he hoped to show them the rare white rhino. He knew where they’d been the day before, so thought they may still be close by.


Storm felt the warm wind in her hair as she stood upright in the bus as it made its bumpy way along the narrow tracks. She wondered how Kathryn was coping with the camera and guessed that the video would be very shaky indeed when they watched it. They saw deer, warthogs, small groups of zebra and twice came close to a pair of black elephants. They couldn’t name half of the birds they saw and they glimpsed many animals from a distance. They passed another tour bus as the afternoon wore on and their driver asked in his deep, melodic voice if the other bus driver had spotted the rhino. The answer must have been in the affirmative because their driver pulled into an even smaller track to do a three-point turn, heading back the way they’d come, before taking a different fork. The bus was hushed as they finally spotted the rhino. The driver turned off the engine and the stillness enveloped them all, the soft whirring of Kathryn’s camera, the only sound. One of the rhino looked at them with his very small, beady eyes and gave a grunt. Obediently, the others lifted their heads from grazing and ponderously started to move away. The occupants of the bus watched as the small herd of ungainly creatures disappeared into the spinifex, wondering how long the beasts would be around for people like them to see.


The tour was over and the air was starting to chill. Storm and Kathryn remained standing, next to one another, as all the others sat down out of the breeze. They swayed with the movement of the bus, their arms touching on occasions. Storm felt the warmth of Kathryn’s arm against her own and deliberately retained the contact, enjoying the protection from the wind. They stood in silence, savouring the moment, etching it on their brains. Kathryn lifted a hand, pointed. Storm watched as the sunset burned its way through the savanna and sizzled into the horizon. As they continued to watch in awe, the young girl momentarily leaned against the older woman, her wonder at the sight making her feel small and inadequate; needing the reassuring touch of another human being. They reached the exit to the reserve and pulled onto the highway. Kathryn sighed deeply as she broke the warm contact.

“It’ll be too cold to stand now. We’d better sit.” Storm nodded, feeling too overwhelmed by all the sights to speak. They sat in silence all the way home, the hum of the conversation around them not intruding on their thoughts.

Next month - Parts 3 & 4

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