The Wall

105

Nozipho pulled Thembinkosi’s arm. “Come on, let’s go.”

“Stop!” the officer’s voice flashed. “You aren’t allowed to leave.”

Nozipho turned around. “Why not? It’s all over.”

“You can’t. Orders. Why do you think everyone’s standing around here?”

“Afraid of getting shot?”

“That, too…”

“But that’s over.”

“I’m sorry, but you have to wait until you have permission to move around the neighborhood. I’m waiting on word from the precinct.”

“And if we just leave anyway?” Nozipho put her hands on her hips. Her dress tore a little more.

“Then… then…”

“We’ll wait a few more minutes.” Thembinkosi positioned himself so the world didn’t have a view of Nozipho’s underwear.

“Yes, I’m listening,” the officer hollered into the mic. Silence, as they all tried to vainly listen in. “I understand,” she finally said. “All right… Everyone now, and straight out. Got it.”

Straight out sounds pretty good, Thembinkosi thought.

Before the officer could say another word, everyone started moving. The four garbage workers jammed themselves into the cab of their truck. The engine roared to life.