As the plane hit the tarmac at Cape Town International, Neera breathed a sigh of relief, for the idea of having to stay strapped into this airplane seat for another minute was almost too much to ask of her exhausted body to take. She had been overjoyed at the brief stop in Johannesburg for customs check and plane switch but these last 30 minutes she really began to get agitated. Not that her flight companions were helping matters much; what with there Americanized attempts at speaking Afrikaans and then latching on to any nearby poor soul that could maybe help them out and if that person were male, well then, all bets were off in their eyes. She knew a few basics and she figured anything after that was going to sound forced, so why not just pick it up as she went along, after all, Cape Town speaks English just as common as their native languages, so how lost could one really get? Other than the fact that this was South Africa, thousands of miles away from everything she knew and about a million miles away from anything she would ever come to expect.

A semester studying abroad sort of just fell into her lap as she debated her final steps to graduation and having been the overzealous freshman so many years ago, she had left her senior options wide open, so when she happened to glance at the Education board at the beginning of Fall term for some reason South Africa seemed like the escape and culture shock that so deeply intrigued her. Family issues at home only seemed to seal the deal by Thanksgiving; her brother was getting his MBA come spring and her elder sister was now one of the youngest cardio specialist in the country. Leave it up to Neera to break the mold and do something completely against the grain but thankfully being the youngest tailored to such activities and her parents had become accustomed to expect such things from their free-spirited child.

Neera knew two of the five other students that happened to be traveling from the states to do their final semester at Stellenbosch Univerisity and only one of those two were in the education field such as herself. Allie and her were acquaintances, had the same classes through much of their college years but Allie was in a league far more pretentious than Neera, hanging around with the jocks and high profile sorority types and not those known for their tame social gatherings either. Neera was the girl next door who would jump the fence now and again, just to challenge the outcome. She had quick wit and a brazen tongue that helped facilitate the passionate person she was and although that didn’t always make her the most enjoyable to be around, it made her the most real.

She quickly tied back her loosely curled strawberry blonde locks and grabbed her carry on from the overhead compartment above. Her slender yet athletic frame was a perfect model for the olive cargo pants and form fitted white t-shirt that adorned her body. The few girls that traveled with her, obviously hadn’t bothered to check out January temps for Cape Town, either that or they had left there rationale back in the states as there short shorts and cutie tops were completely screaming ‘tourists’.

Finally exiting the baggage claim area with the other students they made their way to shuttle concourse, she could already breath in the difference in air here and for the first time in about 20 some hours she was relaxed and excited all in the same. She slid her fashionable sunglass frames over her piercing green eyes and began to search with the others for this so-called University shuttle guide.

Regard sat listlessly stirring his steaming cup of black coffee, the sweet smell of cane sugar permeating through the rich nutty aroma of the brew lingering around his lips. It was well past morning, though Regard wasn't much one for the eleven o'clock tea. And besides, it was a bit too early to start drinking anything harder, even though he figured he was going to need it with the lot he was oh-so-patiently awaiting. He looked down at his wristwatch, an antique of sorts, a hand-me-down from his grandfather. The silver bracelet was scuffed and dingy and the face screamed of hard-times and late appointments. "Bloody hell..." Regard murmured to himself, turning his face away from the time in disgust and raising his drink for another sip.

Regard was somewhat of a professional student and had started to call the Cape home after almost a decade of studying and working there. Though he was raised on much more modest means in a place far less cosmopolitan and modern. The Karoo was a forbidding place, practically desert were it not for the spring rains that would instill life through the unforgiving summer heat and into the dry and bitter cold winter. His father was an engineer with the state run railways, as many men who came up through the nationalist yet turmultous years of the '70's and '80's. If you weren't into mining or transportation, and farming wasn't your forte either, there wasn't much hope for you otherwise to make it in the white-and-black world of the Apartheid era.

Though it was different now in the "free" South Africa. If you were even lucky enough to land a job anywhere you had it made. And with the army practically disbanded, not even that was an outlet any more. Hence, why Regard stayed at Stellenbosch. It was an excuse more than anything not to go back home, where dirt roads were the way of life and you would toil day in and day out to make something of the dead soil God so graciously bestow you. At least in the city there was hope, although the little hope there was had to be divied up amongst the thousands seeking a little bit of that dream that is South Africa.

Regard perked up as the baggage carousel started whirling just across from the cafe. He finished his coffee and picked up the piece of cardboard where-on he had scribbled earlier "Stellenbosch" and headed towards the baggage claim area. He pulled his sunglassess out of his leather jacket pocket and slipped them on, his face stubbly from just not having felt like shaving that morning. Regard was a stocky guy, a good ol'boy from the farmlands, but lean and fit. He had a stint on the provincial rugby team before he became ineligable to keep playing, though the regular pick-up game kept him in shape. Not the mention the occational brawl at the local shabeen, his body had quite the stories to tell if anyone was interested in exploring. He smirked to himself as he surveyed the approaching tourists. At least these Americans were fairly easy to bed. God he hated lowering his standards though.

As the rest of her crew idly stood around, seemingly waiting for someone to jump out and find them, Neera took the initiative and began to move around the baggage claim area, assuming that the University would have more than likely sent someone to transport their international students; as was indicated to them in the admissions agreement.

As she moved further away from the group she noticed a handful of drivers holding signs indicating either the persons’ name or their destination; Campus Bay, Botes, Constantia, Somerset West, Abbott, Malan, so there had to be one waiting for them as well. Neera walked a few steps further down the concourse when she first spotted a dashingly yet slightly gruff looking attendee, precariously holding a rather unimpressive sign reading: Stellenbosch, and as she approached him, she could already feel a bit of skepticism growing. This is who they sent to represent their school? He looked better fit to be leading a rugby team onto a field, not transporting prospective students to an elite University. Neera debated whether or not to go back and grab the rest of her group but she thought she first better make sure this was infact their escort for the day. She thought momentarily on whether or not to try out her Afrikaans or shoot for the chance that he spoke English. He would have to speak both, no? I mean, it’s a dual speaking University and if they did send him to infact pick up Americans, it wouldn’t make much sense sending someone who couldn’t converse with his cargo on some level, right? She went with the safe bet, no use in screwing this up just to sound smart and although she didn’t intend for it, sarcasm laced the words that exited her lips.

“So, you’re who the University sends to represent them? Or are you just looking to cash in on the naïve and over anxious students flailing about in a new country?” as the words left her mouth she suddenly grew aware that her brazen approach to things might not be taken as candidly over here and apparently the hours of travel had put a damper on her ‘sensitivity’ button.

Regard was unimpressed and made it rather obvious as he glanced down at Neera, reaching for his sunglasses and nonchalantly lowering them down the bridge of his long nose. His green eyes stared blankly at Neera as he responded with every ounce as much sarcasm as her original remark.

”Ja, and you must be the prize gem America has to offer.” Regard said with a cold drawl, his vowels harsh as he purposefully exaggerated his Afrikaner accent. She was do-able, he thought to himself. Regard smirked as he slid the sunglasses back up to his brow. ”I thought there was a few more of you, but clearly you’re attitude is enough for ten.” He continued, stretching his neck to peer up and over and around Neera trying to spot the rest of the lost herd.

”Excuse me…” Regard continued bluntly, slipping by Neera and heading towards the rest of the Americans that stood out like a sore thumb amongst the natives from the interior. He chuckled as he approached them, some wearing shorts and t-shirts. Little did they know just how unforgiving the Cape can be in the winter, with her South-Wester howling down from Table Bay.

”Excuse me everybody…” Regard started as he reached the group, his voice much more pleasant and inviting. ”My name is Regard van der Westhuizen and I'm here to escort you to your residence at Stellenbosch University.” He smiled affably. ”Welcome to South Africa.”

The students started grabbing their luggage as they spun by on the carousel. Regard watched eagerly at the lovely ladies as they bent over to reach for their oversized luggage. He couldn’t help but smirk to himself as the show progressed. As it seemed most had their luggage together, he continued. ”Now if you would please follow me, we’re parked right outside.” He turned and made eye contact with Neera again, although his own eyes were well hidden behind his dark sunglasses. ”If anyone needs any help, don’t be shy to ask.” He smiled at her, mischievously, and proceeded towards the terminal exit where an old Volkswagen Kombi stood waiting.

She was about to apologize for her short remark but Regard had already moved himself past her, giving her shoulder a slight bump. She let out a quiet sigh of disgust from both herself and this fabulous relationship that she begun with what now appeared to be the actual escort to Stellenbosch University. "Fabulous." she muttered to herself and took a few breaths.

She bit the side of her lip and kept her back to him and as she debated whether or not to approach Regard again, the rest of the students huddled around him like a pack of groupies to a rock star. Neera let her head drop a bit over her shoulder as she watched him attentively grab the other girls’ bags and flash that charming smile at their words of adoration and thanks to him; she drew in a breath slightly as his eyes seemingly found hers although their sunglasses hid any sort of real contact.

‘Screw it’ she thought, and grabbed the handle to her luggage and stepped in line with the guys from her group. They were both law majors and so they more than likely wouldn’t be seeing much of each other once they hit the campus, other than being located in a similar residence. International students were placed in their own apartments at Stellenboschs’ off-campus site, which just simply meant they weren’t living in dorms or campus houses. They had the choice of sharing rooms or going solo; Neera chose solo, mainly because she wasn’t really even sure how much time she was going to be spending in her apartment and when she was there she wanted her solitude. Sleep was a huge indulgence of hers and a roomie was not conducive to that luxury.

The group proceeded to board the rather unflashy and well-worn vehicle that awaited them and as Neera waited to load her own bag in the back and exchange a few more fiery glances with Regard, she couldn’t help herself as she stood looking at the beast of a vehicle before boarding, “Hmph, you know, I’m kind of not surprised.” She turned and flashed him a smirk and a raised eyebrow, “Apparently, your outfit matches your vehicle perfectly.”

The door slammed hard behind her and she couldn’t help but bite back the smile eeking to find her lips. Once the vehicle started moving, the other girls were all about ‘101 Questions’ for him, some legit and others totally fishing for personal tidbits. Neera just kept an eye out the side window and up ahead, occasionally stealing a glimpse at Regard as he answered the questions asked by her companions. His spoke very well and she would admit, the accent must definitely work for him. She shook away the entertainment of such thoughts and resumed taking in the views of outskirts and what might be suburbs of Cape Town as they headed east towards the vineyards and hills 20 minutes to the town of Stellenbosch.

Neera’s mind couldn’t absorb all that was the populous of Cape Town, something she knew she’d have to spend a good solid week simply exploring and as they reached farther and farther out, she was completely blown away by the grandeur of the landscape. The mountains that so effortlessly careened into valleys and how every notion of the African landscape that she had in her head was completely obliterated with every crested hill and serpentined bend. She suddenly felt like a very little fish in a very, very big pond… and she delighted in it to no end.

The incessant babbling was driving Regard mad as he tried desperately hard to stay as short with his answers as possible while fiddling around with the old tape cassette player in the Kombi. When some tune of obscure language and style reminiscent of Mexican folk songs started blaring through the crackling stereo speakers, his mood appeared to improve. ”No, there aren’t any lions…” He said to one. ”Yes, there is plenty of electricity for the whole village.” He said to another, rolling his eyes. Were they just toying with him? Regard just shook his head, forcing a smile as the conversations kept rolling as the very hills they were weaving through.

A curious eye peered back at the rear view mirror as Regard adjusted it to land squarely on Neera. ”How about you?” He asked coyly, simply not buying the whole quiet-type act she was apparently putting on. The whole van seemed to all turn at once and cast their stares on Neera as she sat staring out of the side window.

”No matter…” Regard continued as a sudden wave of shadows washed over the kombi. ”Welcome to Stellenbosch.” The oak lined avenues seemed to transport the lot back to a much simpler age. The college town was buzzing with activity as Regard cruised through towards the admissions building, students and locals a like braving the chilly afternoon air to enjoy some tea and sandwiches with jam.

”Now if anyone can’t find anything, like for example the shower curtain…” Regard said jokingly to a guffaw of giggles from the troop of women, slipping down from his kombi and moving towards the back to pop open the trunk. ”I’m in the first room to the left, right next to the lobby desk.” Regard started handing out the luggage, carefully giving the group another once over as they started into the lobby of the apartment complex for international students.

”And remember...” Regard yelled a last warning up after the Americans. ”Use your adapters if you plan to plug in anything you may have brought from home… I don’t want to scoop anyone off the ceiling on your first day!”

The other girls busied off to the upstairs rooms and the guys as well; Neera knew she’d be seeing them in a couple of hours at the short dissertation for international students and then there was something about a night out with some of the locals, she’d have to read her folder again.

She carted her luggage down the first floor hallway past the lobby desk and what she presumed then to be Regards door on the right. She heard him shuffle in behind her and stop at the desk, speaking something or other and sharing a chuckle with the desk clerk that resided there.

Neera proceeded just a short way down the hall; apparently the ‘single’ apartments were located on the main level. She fumbled with her keys a bit and as the door popped, her ears picked up on a few words in Afrikaans 'that girl, nice body, bloody American’. She bit her tongue but as Regard began to walk towards his door only a few mere feet from hers she couldn’t contain herself, as she turned to confront him.

“My name is Neera, long E short A. I’m from Minnesota, Land of 10,000 Lakes and all that jazz. I’m an Education major, with a minor in World History. I love Emerson & Thoreau and absolutely detest over zealous women’s movements. I believe the first kiss says everything about a person and I swear to God if you check out my chest once more before finding my eyes, I’m gonna smack you. Anything else, you can hold your breath and wait for.”

She took a step in towards her door before turning her attention to him once more, “Oh, and I may be a bloody American, with a nice body but my brain isn’t half bad either. Good night.”

The door shut behind her and she let out a huge exhale… this was definitely going to be trouble.

Regard stood there flabbergasted at Neera’s abrupt introduction and just as sudden retreat to her room. For a moment longer Regard just paused there, as though to regain his composure. Or was it for dramatic effect, as he bent down slight and cocked his head back at the clerk, his face a blank slate of confusion. The clerk, Jaco Welgemoed, just shrugged, grinning like a fool that in turned encouraged a smirk to curl at Regard’s lips as he straightened himself back up; and with a steady march he took the few steps down towards the door behind which Neera had disappeared.

Regard tapped on the door with a rhythmic rap-rippitty-rap and took a step back as he waited on Neera’s response. The door swung open and Neera’s fiery gaze caught Regard somewhat off guard. Nevertheless, he managed to pull off a smile.

”You didn’t give me a chance to let you know what a pleasure it is to meet you, Neera…” Regard started calmly, his face glowing with a boyish grin, dimpling at his stubbled cheeks. ”Though I just wanted to let you know… although I’m sure your breast are ample…” Regard glanced blatantly yet in apparent underhanded secretiveness at Neera’s chest, his cheeks blushing at his own openly brazenness. As… they… clearly are… He finished stammering a little. ”Though you may want to get off your high horse…” He continued, taking a step closer towards Neera, his hands folded behind his back and his glimmering green eyes meeting hers. ”You’re not the hot piece of American ass I was referring too, but rather your little friend, Allie.”

Regard smirked, taking a breath through his nose as he stepped back away from Neera again. ”Now if you would excuse me, I have to get ready for your orientation.” He smiled coyly and started away towards his own room. Yet only a few steps away, and without turning around, he said with a chuckle: ”And I couldn’t care less about your mind either... see you in a few...”

Regard winked at Jaco, who tried to stifle his own laughter, before slipping into his own bedroom to change and clean up a little. Yet as he closed his door, Regard pressed his back up against it, closing his eyes and staring blindly up at the ceiling. He breathed in again deeply through his nose, holding his breath for a moment before slowly letting it out with a labored sigh. His nostrils were on fire with her sweet perfume and suddenly his brief perversion just a moment earlier became an unforeseen torture.

The orientation hall currently held about 20 some students including Neera and her American companions. She caught a few other languages mixing about the space; Italian was one, German she thought and some Spanish was floating out there as well.

The director gave a basic introduction of Stellenbosch University as well as himself and the staff set aside to aid the international students during the duration of their stay. Neera’s eyes narrowed a bit when Regard was introduced amongst a brood of other guys of similar build and suddenly a small smile was trying to escape as she suddenly realized that ‘this is how these guys avoid having to grow up. The classic Peter Pan syndrome… by making themselves into glorified tour guides for the University, they get to stay connected to their youth.’

Neera held in a chuckle at the simplicity of it all and even dared shoot a glance at Regard, as if to say, ‘Such a simple man you are.’ His eyes shot up momentarily to unexpectedly meet hers and yet instead of darting them away Neera stayed fixed, almost daring him from across the room to look away first.

When he had let her doorway and she had slammed the door in appalled disgust, she was not only mortified for being called out on her snap assumption of his comments in Afrikaans but thoroughly charged at the very act of him challenging her bluntness and opinionated demeanor. Never had she thus organized a room with such fervor and/or intensity and with every article of clothing that she found a place for, her discontent with Regard grew more insatiable. When she suddenly realized that she had packed her entire room away and hadn’t a clue where things were, she decided; that was it, her contact with him would be held to a minimum, is any at all. It shouldn’t be too hard; she could get on with the niceties and formalities for the next few weeks, simply seeing him only when it appeased her studies.

It was actually the director that broke her gaze as he walked through her line of sight, when he began to address the ‘education students’ and inform them that he had taken the liberty of assigning them their own personal guide for their month of ‘field study’, for which they were to write their semester thesis. Neera’s attention was now diverted back to her soul purpose for being here; to grasp a better understanding of the education system in an apartheid country and try to perceive the challenges that the constant upheaval of the very basic of needs affected children’s’ learning. She took a deep breath, issues with Regard weren’t about to deter this life altering journey she was so eager to partake in.

The students began to shuffle and mingle their way out of the hall and began boarding vans and other vehicles to head into town for the evening. Apparently, a proper welcome was in order at the local shebeen. The few education students that there were proceeded to receive the list of their assigned guides and were eager to have their first encounter with them. Neera eye balled the bodies of the prospective guides and was again displeased to see Regard standing there, chumming it up with his rugby-esque blokes.

Her had snatched the half-sheet of paper from the assistant dispensing them and she searched out the familiarity of her name.



Her eyes slowly rolled up to see his face still laughing about something or other with the men that stood around him, as the pit in her stomach suddenly deepened. Regard caught her eyes and gave a seemingly curious look, as if he had no clue what her expression was supposed to mean. And who the hell knows, maybe he didn’t have a clue but at that moment Neera needed to be out of his presence, all she could see in his place was a void of white and so turning on a heel and feeling completely defeated she made for the exits, trying to keep her breathing calm but grumbling under breath, “Fuck all.”

”What’s wrong, boet?” Jaco asked Regard, cocking his head slightly and then tracing down Regard’s line of sight into the crowd. ”I think this quarter just got very, very long.” Regard answer with a hint of dismay in his voice, his gaze locked on Neera as she fleetingly made her way through the crowd. A part of him just died knowing he’ll have to deal what girl’s attitude for the next few months, even though, apparently, by some strange series of events, they had more in common with each other than they could ever imagine.

The fires crackled and the smell of applewood, searing meat, good beer filled the evening. A good crowd has formed at Tannie Sue’s, along with some professors and locals just out on the night. A point was made to try and make the newcomers as comfortable as possible, and groups of Maties were eager to share stories and beer with their new class mates.

Regard walked out onto the open patio to a greeting of cheers from one or two groups, Jaco peeling away from one of the braais and welcoming his friend with an ice cold Lion in tow. Regard thanked him with a nod, taking the beer and a long swig to get the night rolling. So, you stuck with her? Jaco asked almost tauntingly. Regard just rolled his eyes and took another sip. ”She’s one of those Americans it seems that think her shit don’t stink and she can change the world apparently.” Jaco just laughed, taking a sip of his own drink also. ”Come now, boet, you want to help the poor little swartetjies too.” Jaco laughed again, Regard giving him a quick few punches to the arm before walking off to the rest of his troop with a smirk on his face.

”Hey there.”A voice greeted Regard from behind, that deep American drawl hanging thick on those harsh vowels of hers. Regard turned around to find Allie standing there behind him in much more suitable attired for the weather but still plenty enough revealing and flattering to her own assets. He quickly introduced her to the rest of the crowd, a hand on her back shoving her closer to the braai, and waving at Jaco to bring the girl a beer. A few laughs were exchanged as, mostly at Allie’s expense, but all in good fun.

But Regard was clearly distracted, sipping at his beer and only make a comment or exchanging a smile when absolutely necessary. His eyes darted out over the rest of his crowd, searching the faces that mulled around a couple more braais, and over at the bar and at the tables. In the back of his head he could hear someone nearby ask a question, though he was utterly distracted as the bar door slowly swung open.

The van had stopped outside Tannie Sue’s and Neera’s eyes lit up with cheer and anticipation as she exited the bus; a definite mood change from the orientation hall, one she was glad to be rid of. She could smell the grilling goodness from inside and seeing the colorful crowd that swung in and out of the patio style establishment, gave her a new sense of calm and a refreshed outlook on her trip. Her slender, athletic frame now donning a curve hugging pair of jeans, an emerald green cotton cami, covered up with a fitted white hoodie, followed the recently arrived crew towards the entrance doors, allowing the evening breeze to catch her now freed tendrils that draped across her shoulder blades.

Pushing open the door, Neera immediately felt at ease from the excitement and newness given off by the crowd inside; that and being here for a few minutes she had yet to see Regard. The night looked better already.

She followed some of the guys up to the bar and ordered a beer; she was debating on wine, after all this was essentially the South African wine capital but not tonight. No, tonight it was about just taking it easy and getting rid of the funk that had plagued her since arriving.

One of the law majors needed a partner for his game of pool and obligingly Neera accepted. “Sure, why not.” After all, when was she ever to turn down a friendly game amongst colleagues? Apparently Adam had agreed to play two of what Neera could only assume were rugby player / glorified tour guides. “Now boys you will remember pool is not a contact sport…so be sure to keep your hands to yourself.” She shot them a smartass glance and they jeered right back. “Well then maybe we should introduce you to how we play pool down here?” They were friendly enough and did their damnedest to flatter and flirt and in all honesty Neera was reveling in it. They began to wager rounds of drinks and after the third game, the Americans were up by one. The conversation flew from casual to gritty and then playfully coy, she quickly made apparent that she was anything but ‘a damsel in distress’ type of woman.

Neera could hear Allie and the other girls in the background somewhere near the bar probably sitting infront of some frilly drinks with umbrellas but she made no attempt to search them out. No need, she was having her own fun, once again immersed in the comfort of the male species, adhering to the ‘girl next door’ image. She did however, wonder if those giggles and shrieks hadn’t been brought on by some over impressive comment made by Regard, casually setting himself up to get into Allie’s knickers by the nights end.

Her train of thought snapped back to the moment and the awaiting men standing eagerly with cues in hand, “Alright, Game 4?” she tipped her glass before taking a big gulp and waited for the balls to be racked.

Regard kept one eye keenly fixed on Neera as she entered the Tannie Sue’s and, first getting herself a drink, heading over to join a couple of chommies for some pool. Out of one ear he could hear Jaco making conversation with the slowly growing crowd of foreign girls – word spread fast, and Regard and his crew has somewhat of a reputation to uphold. It has after all taken him close to seven years now to build said reputation and he made sure to take advantage of his status as often as possible. And although he would generally devote himself to any eager and incredibly attractive foreigner, his thoughts were elsewhere.

Regard’s crew soon got coaxed into leaving the chilly smoke-filled patio for the cozier indoors, something the boys lamented; yet, not to discount a golden opportunity and favorable odds to boot, the group made themselves comfortable at a large table in the back near the bar. Regard almost subconsciously looked to see who all had arrived and noticing Neera and a compatriot engaged in a “friendly” game with some of his squad took a seat against the wall facing the room to keep an eye on the sports. A few more rounds of beers arrived and tongues and hands grew very lax. Adriaan had just advanced to show off his finely cut abs to a roar of giggles and praise when Regard zoned back in on the pool game across the room, his fellows hanging their heads, with a good laugh mind you, as they clearly lost a key game so far.

”Haai boet, where’s your head at tonight?” Jaco whispered privately over to Regard. ”Naw mun, just watching Frans and Stinkie having their asses kicked by some of our guests. Regard responded, gesturing with a nod over at the Neera and her pool game. Jaco followed Regard gaze and looked back at his friend, chuckling as he nudges Regard in the ribs. ”Yeah, sure you are, and you haven’t at all been paying attention to that little piece over there. Jaco took a sip of his beer with a smirk, now also engaged in the game at hand.

”What you boys whispering about?” The slurred words came from next to Regard. ”Oh nothing, sweetheart. Jaco chimed in, looking back over at Allie, Regard clearly not even noticing the hand that’s running along the inside of his thigh. Regard quickly finished off his beer and uprubtly got up. ”Yo Fransie!” He yelled across the bar, immediately grabbing his pal’s attention. ”You’re not putting us Afrikaner boytjies to shame are you?” The rest of the table quickly directed their gaze over at the pool tables, Frans saluting Regard with a perfectly erect bird.

Regard nudged Jaco to get up, to which Jaco offered a little protest, the sweet little Spaniard to his side not all that eager to let go of her new found beau. Finally Regard convinced Jaco to join him, as they slid out from behind the table, excusing themselves rather hurriedly, especially to Allie’s chagrin. ”Hold that table boys!” Regard hollered from across the room as he and Jaco made their way over to the crowd.

”Let us show how some real boertjies play this game.” Regard mocked, stripping Frans of his cue. You don’t mind, do you, if Jaco and I cut in?” He asked, his gaze directed at Neera. ”Ja, just remember, the balls need to stay on the table!” Frans yelled with a laugh, knowing a good bit of sports were about to commence. Stinkie relinquished his cue to Jaco, who accepted and immediately started to chalk the tip.

”What are we playing for, beers?” Regard asked, looking back and forth between the lot. ”I think it’s time we bring out the liquor, eh, what you boys say? Hey?!” He looked around at the group that had started to gather around the table, and from behind the bar a pretty little Afrikaner girl brought out a bottle and four shot glasses, putting it down on a table near the pool table. ”For ever ball you sink, the other team needs to take a shot of Amarula, what do you say?” Regard leaned on the table, looking Neera in the eyes. ”And losers buy the other lots’ friends a round too.” Regard winked at Neera, standing back up and taking the chalk from Jaco as he handed it to him.

Neera’s playful smile faded a bit as she realized exactly ‘who’ it was that was making the comments from across the bar and now joining in on their most entertaining game, to which they were now tied 2 a piece.

Regard’s eyes fell to hers as he asked to raise the stakes and if it weren’t for the lovely flow alcohol already swimming through her system she might have jumped back with a smart comment but beings as she was enjoying herself and wanted to keep it that way, she bit her tongue and simply offered an agreeing nod. “Sounds fabulous. I do believe it’s our break.” She slid herself in front of him semi-deliberately making sure their bodies touched. God he smelled good, almost better with the hint of alcohol on him and holy crap was he solid. She wouldn’t have completely guessed it from the disheveled look he displayed this morning and this afternoon she was too enraged to pay attention, but now, she was very aware of it.

Suddenly warm, she carefully unzipped her hoodie and tossed it across the high back bar chair of their table. Her hair shifted across her shoulder blades and sent a chill up her spine but if anything it was merely to ground her back into what she had just agreed to. Neera chalked her cue, twisting it a bit roughly in her hands and then called ball. She bent low to the table and zeroed in on her target, smiling at a few sly comments made by her former opponents, she pulled the cue back and let it slam into the shiny white orb.

Four solid balls found there homes and a stripe slid into the corner pocket, bringing astonished jeers from Frans and Stinkie, as well as a few others, and a devilish smile to Neera’s lips. Her eyes immediately went to Regard but spoke to both he and Jaco, “Don’t worry boys, you should be used to holding your sticks for long periods of time.”

Frans did the honor of pouring 4 shots each for Regard and Jaco; Jaco not looking pleased at Regards choice wager but accepting it nonetheless. Adam gave Neera a friendly embrace of ‘nice shot’, while she took a sip from her pint. This night just got real interesting.

Regard just shrugged as he handed two of the shots to Jaco and took the remaining two. In unison, they slammed them back as Neera moved around the table and positioned herself right in front of the two as she lined up a long corner shot. Bending over just as she did before, neither Regard nor Jaco could keep from staring as her jeans pulled tightly around her every curve. ”You better watch out where you toss that ass…” Regard started jeeringly as Neera slowly let the cue slide back and forth between her fingers as she prepared for her shot. ”…you may just be in for a good hiding!”

Expertly timed, Regard rapped Neera square on the butt right as she drew back to strike, hitting low and sending it flying off the table The crowd around the foursome exploded with cheers as Regard walked around to retrieve the cue ball, all the while chalking his tip. ”I did say that you have to take a shot when you scratch too, right?” He smirked as Jaco poured Neera a shot and held it out for her. ”Now I do believe it is our shot.”

”You get ‘em, hotstuff!” Allie exclaimed, wriggling her stammering behind through the crowd and haphazardly grabbing hold of Regard, tossing her arms around his neck and lifting herself up to him. With out warning, she planted a big, long kiss on his lips. Regard just stood there for a moment, completely caught of guard; yet quickly forgot his reservations as he wrapped his arm holding the cue around Allie’s lithe little body, half lifting her higher up against him, his eyes closing as he savored her tender lips on his. Allie released the lip lock with a loud smack, throwing her arms in the air as she looked over at Neera. ”He’s so kickin’ ya ass! Whoooo!” Allie exclaimed, half falling back and being caught by some nearby guys, the whole lot cheering at the little show they just witnessed.

Regard just smiled broadly, cocking a smirk as he caught Neera’s eye. ”Now I’m really ready.” He said, putting the ball down and in a single motion lowering himself to the table, pulling the cue back, and almost without looking, sending the cue ball off to drop the 13 in the side pocket. ”Your luck just ran out, cookie. Regard snubbed, Jaco pouring another shot and gesturing for Adam to come get it.

Neera watched, as did the rest of the crowd seated near them as Allie practically sucked the air out of Regards lungs, she wasn’t sure at first, but was there a tinge of ‘spite’ scratching inside of her? No, not spite, but the sudden realism that all of what she thought of Regard was actually true and that small glimmer of possibility that he might be anything but your typical good looking womanizer, was burning out.

Neera rolled her eyes and took a sip from her pint, as Allie slurred her banner statement that her ‘man toy’ was winning. Then came the shots and she couldn’t decipher which was worse, the idea that she for the first time in this game play didn’t have the upper hand or that she was in for way more alcohol than she wanted to submit to drinking to this night.

Being the fair sport she was, she raised her shot glass to Regard and threw back the first one, quickly followed by the second…even bothering to tongue the last little bit that dripped from the edge of the glass before putting back on the table. It was fruity, caramel like and smooth all in the same. Neera definitely was wary of any shot that tasted that good, for trouble often came sooner than later, in those instances.

She positioned herself at the end of the table as Regard lined up for his next shot, she placed her hands on the wooded edge and rested her weight on her toned arms, the low riding waistband of jeans catching the lip of the table and tugged them a bit lower under her belly button, more than likely giving him a slight glimpse of the ink work that resided on her lower abdomen. Neera simply found his eyes again and just kept her gaze to his movements at the far end, no longer caring for the possibility of saving face. He clearly wasn’t, and she knew before long the liquor in her system would render her way too carefree eventually anyways.

“Those weren’t all that bad. Infact, a few more might actually make you start looking better. Unfortunatley, I fear no amount of liquor could help your personality but then again, that’s not what gets you through the your world is it?” her words spilled onto the table, as if it were only the two of them in the room, and in honestly, to her, that’s all there was.

Regard’s eye caught what looked to be a dainty wing fluttering out from behind Neera’s waistband. He could feel a knot tightening in his stomach and a cold chill trickling down his spine. That kiss had set him on fire, and Neera wasn’t helping him recover his composure. He blinked to regain his focus on the cue ball, raising his gaze up Neera only as she spoke. He let off a short chuckle as he played the cue through his fingers, slightly sliding his body to one direction to get a better angle. Naw, cookie, it’s all about hitting it right, and hitting it hard.” Regard pulled the cue back and struck the cue ball hard, hitting the 10 ball with a crisp click that sent it careening into the pocket right in front of Neera with a solid thud.

But that doesn’t mean I don’t have a couple tricks up my sleeve either… He continued, never letting his gaze leave the cue ball that was still moving across the table with an unusual spin. Slowly it traversed to the opposite end of the table, where with a light tap, knocked the 15 ball into the bottom pocket. Jaco poured a shot each for Neera and Adam as Regard walked around the table, purposely sliding through between Neera and the table, catching her eyes as she stared up at him. He took a deep breath through his nose as he passed, his mind for a moment spinning as he caught her sweet perfume again. He sighed deeply as he reached the opposite end, trying to return the sudden absence of oxygen to his brain. He pulled back on the cue and sent a misplaced shot banking off the side and just barely tapping the 12.

He cursed under breath as he started towards Jaco. ”Pour me another one, I need to get this edge off me.”

Neera took down the next two shots, with ease but after the last she definitely knew something was amiss and she felt her blinks getting ever longer and the room was becoming much quieter. She still had her balance and that was a plus, as she watched Regard miss the 12, a slight sigh of relief passed her lips but was quickly taken up by Allie coming bounding in again.

“Are you winning?” her voice obviously straining under the influence of alcohol, when she turned her attention to Neera, "Is he kickin your ass Neera?” then back to Regard in a bit of hushed tone, "Are you? You are aren’t you?” she giggled as she hung on his arm and shoulder.

Neera simply shook her head and grabbed the glass of water that had been delivered a few seconds earlier. Adam had made his next to shots, keeping the bottle of Amarula over by Regard and Jaco but upon missing his third, the shots came back to him and Neera.

She knew she couldn’t withstand this assault much longer and she wasn’t about to have to be carried back to her apartment on the first night but bowing out was never going to happen, especially not in front of Regard; who seemingly had now begun to purposely pay special attention to how the liquor was affecting her.

Jaco was preparing for his next strike; he too apparently was feeling the effects of the vicious liquid, for it seemed to be taking him quite some time to focus in on his target. However, who could blame him, the shots idea was definitely coming into play right about now. Allie was still beboppin around now becoming the annoying drunk and made her way over to where Neera and Adam stood watching the next move. Adam had politely tried to move Allie out of his way so he could easily see the table but she wasn’t picking up on the subtle hint of ‘Please move your drunk ass out of the way.’

Jaco struck the 12 that Regard missed earlier and dropped it in but as he slid himself around the table, his aim was met with opposition from Allie’s body. "Neera, does it upset you that for once, you’re not the sought after one? That you’re not a fabulous as the guys make you out to be.” She took a sip from her glass and simply smiled at Neera, waiting for some reaction, still oblivious to the fact that Jaco was trying to get her to move. “ Allie, you seriously need to move, we’re still playing here.” Allie shuffled her feet a bit, drunkenly spilling some beer on Neera’s shoes; definitely not winning points and quickly drawing the last straw in Neera’s bag of tolerance. Allie giggled a "Whoopsie.” And after that, everything happened in a quick yet slow motion sequence.

Jaco turned again to ask Allie to move, just as Neera was about to grab the beer out of her hands cause she was sick of being spilled on by drunk girl, to which Allie stumbled back into Jaco’s cue, which intrun sent Allie back against the table and her beer cascading itself across the green felt surface, essentially rendering the game null and void.

Neera immediately let go of Allie’s wrist and Jaco turned to help Allie get her bearings. The onlookers were a bit disappointed that the game was now dashed but they seemed to move on fairly quickly. Stepping away as Allie tried to even take account of what happened, finding it hilarious in all her drunken wonderment, Neera took another sip of her water and grabbed her hoodie, most definitely time to exit she thought. She offered and apologetic smile to Adam and was about to make for the door when Regard stepped into her space, with a less than impressed look on his face.

Regard stepped up closer to Neera, leaning down into her, their bodies nearly touching. His face was mere inches from her, the heat of his cheeks, the sweet smell of the Amarula, encapsulating the air around them. ”Don’t think I won’t remember…” He whispers to her, he gaze darting around the room, the patrons, his company, the students, all slipping away into their revelry. ”You owe me…” Regard smirked, straightening and locking eyes with Neera.

Regard smiled, the veil of animosity seemingly melting away for a moment, his eyes softening. The alcohol, perhaps, he knew he didn’t feel himself. ”Watch yourself, cookie.” He winked at Neera, nodding slightly and walking by her, a hand gently brushing over her shoulder as he returned to his party. He didn’t look back, at least he tried not to. Jaco looked at his friend knowingly, offering a smile of reprieve. He had been beaten this night, at his own game mind you. Regard leaned into Jaco as he did with Neera, the bond between them apparent. Make sure Allie get’s home, ‘k boet?” The two exchanged nods and Regard headed for the patio, grabbing what was left of the Amarula as he past it. For a moment he glanced over his shoulder, catching Neera just as she stepped out of the bar.

Out on the patio Regard found a moment of calm. The crisp air played over his warmed skin, the alcohol burning inside his gut. He walked over to the fence surrounding the patio and just stood there for a moment, looking down the lane, watching some more patrons peel out from the bar. He took a deep breath and a long swig of the liqueur. ”Bugger’all.” He whispered to himself, resting his free hand on the brick wall and with a single leap jumping over into the lane.

Running down the lane, he caught up with Neera, slowing down a few yards behind her to a brisk walk. ”We probably should talk.” He said, finally coming up beside her. ”You know, since we kind of got off on the wrong foot earlier and…” He smiled again, offering the bottle to her .

Neera’s faced was now completely flushed both from the confrontation with Regard and the liquor that was coursing through her body, so when her skin hit the night air she was most relieved and momentarily searched for the best venture back to her apartment.

A few vans still remained, but the idea of riding in a vehicle added an unsettling queasiness to her already tormented stomach. She glanced up the street and noticed that a semi-mass exodus had already begun from the local bars downtown heading in the direction of the university, she figured she could manage as long as she got near the few things of familiarity that she knew.

And so the walk began and her mind began to swirl with Regard’s parting comments. ‘Owe him one. I don’t owe him anything. What does he think, that stupid pool game holds any weight outside of those bar walls?’ She shook her head in disgust as she turned a corner and continued her trek home. The cool breeze of the night was so relaxing and as it blew against her face she thought of how wonderful sleep was going to be tonight.

Her ears perked a bit as she thought she heard footsteps approaching and as she turned to bring the figure into clear view, her heart began to pound in curiosity of what he wanted.

She snatched the bottle from his hands, never slowing her pace, “Well if it means anything to you I was going to apologize back at the airport but you put an abrupt kibosh on that…and what makes you think we can better our opinion of each other anyways?” she took a swallow of the Amarula and instantly recalled how decadent it was, removing it from her lips yet maintaining a hold of it. “You obviously have your view on Americans set, so why would anything I say change that?”

She stopped suddenly and faced him, staring up into his green eyes and trying desperately not to lose focus, although she could suddenly feel that something was amiss internally. She held the bottle out, practically placing it back in his hand, “And in all honesty Regard” his name slid off her tongue perfectly, as if she had been speaking it naturally for years, “if it wasn’t for the fact that I’m slightly inebriated and cannot exactly recall how to get home, I would see little point in this conversation continuing at all.”

Regard laughed, taking the bottle from Neera and raising it to his lips for another shot. There was something inside of him that he just wanted to be numb out, like a defense mechanism. Or then again it may have just been that he knew two rocks bashing into each other wasn’t going to work. ”I’ve met a lot of people from all over and I think I know you.” He gave Neera a knowing smile, having the bottle swing by his side but stretched out enough for her to grab a sip if she wanted more. ”And you’re not different than any other American who’s come through here.” Regard smirked, looking away from Neera and down the lane as the started into the darkness of the night, the old oak trees swaying in the moonlight, the shadows playing under their footsteps.

”The moment you got off that plane, you made a judgment of me, and I expected that.” He chuckled, it was muffled, almost unsure of himself. There were days that he himself didn’t know who he was anymore, and when someone called him out, pegged him as something, he started to wonder all over again if all this was worth it. ”But the moment I made a call on you…” Regard looked over at Neera. ”You got all pissy at me… and you don’t want to get pissy at me and have me leave your white ass out in the middle of the location.” It was a subtle threat, yet one Regard hope would sink and get this girl in line quick.

She snatched the bottle from his hand again and took a sip after his last comment, “Well fine, tell me different.” She slowed her pace a bit, the alcohol beginning to hinder her stamina, so why she still held the bottle in her hand, was completely unknown to her.

She looked over to him as they walked, “Tell me that you’re not biding your time at this University because you’re too damn afraid or simply uninspired to pursue anything outside of your comfort zone. You’ve probably been here for what, six years? You’ve probably dabbled in more than a few majors and still you haven’t found anything that excites you, so rather than ending it and being forced to commit to the ‘real worlds’ norms, you keep yourself entertained with the ‘idea that you’re accomplishing something’ yet all you’re doing is improving your right arm strength down at the pub and mastering the art of the pick-up line, while an entire world waiting for you to see, is passing you by.” She slowed a bit more, her vision was now being affected a bit and she blinked a few times, however still remained focused on accusation.

“And not to burst your bubble, but I’m pretty sure you can’t find either of those skills listed under Monster.com for employment ventures.”

Regard just threw his hands into the air as Neera went on. Fok, I was right about you all this time!” He exclaimed, casting a glance over at Neera. ”What do you know about the real world, ay? He brow furrowed, his eyes narrowed, his voice grew deeper as he tried to match the words coming out of his mouth with the thoughts in his head.

”You come here thinking you can change shit, thinking you can get third world experience in a western world town. You know…” Regard just shook his head, stepping ahead of Neera a couple of steps. He stopped there, and turned around. ”You are full of shit. I knew it when I first spoke to you. And I knew was going to be stuck with that this whole semester!”

Regard threw his hands in the air, grabbing his head and started walking forward again. ”Bugger’all.” He whispered audibly, shaking his head. He wanted to leave her right there and then, leave her to the merciless streets of Africa.

Ahead Regard could see the bright lights of the campus flats towering over the oak trees. He felt relieved to finally getting a chance to rid himself of this defiant woman. He turned around just long enough to check if Neera was still there. ”You don’t know where I come from… You don’t know what I know… But I do know where you’re from. And you don’t know shit.”

She swallowed hard and took a deep breath, hoping that it would help clear the fuzziness going on in her head at that moment but she fired right back, “Oh you do, do you? In the 5 seconds you’ve bothered to pay attention to me, between berating me at my door and taking your juvenile shots tonight, you’ve got me all figured out do you?”

As they turned down the corner, the apartment complex now clearly, well clear to sober people, was in sight. “It’s nice that you too apparently don’t jump to snap… decisions… abow…abow” Neera stopped dead in her feet and suddenly could no longer make a clear image of Regard in front of her, no matter how many times she blinked. The street lights seemed to suddenly blur into streams of light rather than orbs and if wasn’t for her stubborn nature she might have called out to him.

“Oh shit.” her voice growing quiet as she felt herself crumpling, how she hoped there was going to be grass underneath her or something to make this fall less painful. Neera’s body hit square on her backside and much to her disappointment, there was no grass. She took a few deep breaths and tried to get her body back up… this was going to take some doing.

Regard at first simply kept walking as Neera started stammering. His own eyes were growing fuzzy, the sweet betrayal of the Amarula finally catching up with them. His step was quick and determined, and by the time Neera had gone down and finally exclaimed her own dilemma, Regard was just about out of earshot. Pausing a moment in his tracks, he looked up into the heavens, the night sky lying open in front of him. He breathed, and one could see his breath evaporate into the moonlight. ”Bloody hell…” He whispered, letting out another long breath, reminiscent of a long drag, a pity smoke to clear his troubled mind.

Regard turned around slowly, half expecting Neera to simply be standing there, merely wobbling in place, to unsure of her next step to continue. But seeing her ass flat on the hard pavement, he quickly lost his own reservations and jogged over to her, his body leaning a little to the side and almost puling him down into the hard sidewalk as well. Reaching her, he clumsily dropped down beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and the other one firmly clasping her one hip. ”Alright, com’on, time to get up, cookie.” He said, trying to regain his wits. He knew having his foreigner pass out and sleep on the street her first night wouldn’t reflect positively on him at all.

”Com’on now, Neera…” Regard continued, her name rolling over his lips for the first time since he met her. For a moment, half-erect, Neera hanging from his arms as he stood there for a moment on his calves, he had to think about what he had just said. It was as though an epithany, one Regard quickly dismissed. ”Up we go, good girl…” He finished encouragingly, getting Neera all the way up to her feet and slowly leading her step for step the rest of the way home.

At Neera’s apartment door, Regard stood there for a moment fumbling with a set of keys. ”Fok.” He exclaimed under breath, realizing that it was his keys, and for a moment, he looked back down the hallway at his own apartment door. Dismissing the option, he propped Neera up against the doorframe and started rummaging through her pockets. She tried to protest, at one moment actually giggling at his innocent advances. Regard simply struggled trying to keep her standing, finally finding the keys and opening her apartment door.

Things were practically pristine as he stumbled into the room with Neera hanging on his arm again. In fact, hadn’t he seen her walk in there earlier, one could have sworn nobody had even been in here yet. He sat her down at a small table in what appeared to be a little kitchenette, with only a single bowl sink, a mini fridge, and a microwave poised on a short counter nearby. Regard rummaged through the cupboard and pulled out a glass, filling it up from the faucet. Neera clearly wanted nothing of it, swatting at the glass of water as Regard tried handing it to her, her head dropping to the table and fortunately finding her other arm already poised as a pillow. The water in turn went splashing through the air, spilling all over Neera’s pants and invariably all over Regard. Regard just stood there for a moment in disbelief, the words of endearment just hanging on his lips as he managed to hold them back.

Crouching down beside her slightly, Regard managed to get Neera back on her feet, carrying over through the door to the adjacent bedroom. Dropping her on the bed, he proceeded to peel off his wet shirt, the water glistening against his toned body. Neera grew delirious in her half-lucid state, mumbling some unintelligible protests as Regard started at her pants buttons. ”Lay still…” He half ordered, undoing just enough to start pulling down her pants. ”You can’t sleep in these, you’d catch cold.” Finally getting them off, he tossed them to the side, Neera curling up on the bed, the cold air of the bedroom causing her skin to curl with goosebumps. Regard pulled the blankets out from under her and halfheartedly tucked her in, he himself plopping down the seat near the bed.

He sat there a moment, debating on whether he should leave her and head for his own bed. Yet something told him to stay. She was gone in an instant; some more mumbles bubbling over her lips, but nothing he could make any sense off. He would hate for her to die her first night, as he drifted off himself.

The sun snuck through the blinds, displaying their early morning pattern across the wall behind Neera’s bed. She had to practically peel her eyes open as she did a quick mental recall of the last moments of the night. She felt the fluffy down comforter under her touch, so that was good and as she twisted her hips slightly she realized she was without pants…a cautionary sign.

Neera was attempting to sit up and as she turned to spy her clock for the ungodly early hour, she just about flung out of bed to see Regard sitting shirtless and pantless in the Papazon chair next to her bed. Neera bit her lip as she for one, was completely breath taken with his toned torso but secondly, now trying desperately to figure out where things had gone at the end of the night.

He was clearly out, an apparent heavy sleeper, so she wrapped the white down comforter around her body and slid herself out of bed, her feet completely not ready for the ground below her. “Fuck.” She mouthed as her backside found the floor once again, this suddenly bringing back a deja-vu moment for her, though she couldn’t for the life of her remember why. Her eyes darted back to Regard, still no movement but still amazingly attractive.

She took a collective breath in as she tried to stop the marching band that was practicing in her head and as she scoured the room for any evidence of activity, she noticed her jeans and his intermingled a few feet from the bed and hanging on the door knob of her bedroom was what appeared to be the shirt Regard wore last night. ‘What in the hell happened last night?’ her mind tried to rationalize anything through the thick fuzz of an Amarula hangover. Her toned legs did their best to get her upright and as she desperately tip toed out for water, she let the comforter drop behind, not really caring at the moment for complete modesty.

Neera’s mouth felt like she’d been chewing on cotton and she badly needed something to drink, to at least attempt to regain some sort of grip on what happened last night. She filled the glass and brought it to her lips and as the liquid coursed down her throat she couldn’t help but let out a small guttural noise of ecstasy. After downing the glass she took a deep breath and once again tried to refocus.

God it was still early, 6:30 by the alarm reading. She returned to her room and closed the blinds shut, darkening the space a bit more and skirting around Regard trying not to wake him but aching to know what went on once her apartment doors shut. Her head began to swirl again and she just couldn’t do anymore thinking, sleep was desperately needed and before returning to her comfy confines, she grabbed the cashmere blanket from the end of her bed and carefully draped it over his sleeping body.

She crawled back into bed, comforter and all and kept her eyes on his sleeping form. Should she wake him? Make him explain himself and go home? Ugg, her head hurt, she couldn’t think on it right now and she didn’t care. Her eyes drifted closed, watching his chest rise and fall in the shadows of the corner.
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The room was darker now, the light had shifted from a blatant annoyance to a dimmer reminder that the day had truly begun. Neera could actually hear the world stirring outside her window and she reconciled that she felt a tad bit better, starving but better and she was pretty sure her head no longer felt like a cement block. Neera peaked an eye open…yep, he was still there and apparently trying to curl himself up inside the Papazon chair. She let a quiet laugh escape and took a deep breath.

Seriously, why did the one guy that probably held the most interest so far on the entire trip have to be her seemingly arch enemy? Had they done anything last night? I mean, obviously nothing sexual or she figured he’d have been in her bed but randomly tossed clothing around a room, generally insists that ‘something’ occurred. Neera sat up, less disorientated this time, still in her cotton cami and still only wearing panties, she grabbed the comforter up around her waist and she reached for her pillow, tossing it into the corner, nailing Regard square in the head.

“Time to get up sunshine.” Her voice still a bit scratchy from sleep but eager to start the inquisition. “We need to talk.”

Regard struggled to get comfortable, the chair awfully small for a guy with awfully long legs. Honestly, chairs just weren’t made for curling up in to begin with, and the awkward position Regard finally found himself in as dreams held him captive was reminiscent of a Picasso or a Dali; his dreams didn’t veer much from the very same either.

Namakwaland flowers stretched the arid desert landscape as far as the eye could see, the mountains in the distance serving but a reminder that there was no escaping this foreboding land. A listless wind tugged at a rusty wind pump, it’s fans ragged, it’s gears creaking from lack of grease. An old Ford pick-up lay half buried under some thorn bushes, spots of maroon and raw steel dotting the faded blue body. Regard just stood there, the dust of the dry earth whirling around him. There was no sound but for the wind, although he could swear there was something said. On the horizon there stood a figure, seemingly waving. Regard squinted under the bright sun, raising his hand to his brow to try and see better. The figure beckoned for him, those same words being repeated, whispered on the wind.

The chair toppled over as Neera pegged him square on the forehead, his surprise and shock tossing his body backwards and the chair with him in it crashing to the floor. Regard just lay there fore a while, holding his pounding head, Neera saying something about “talking.” He blinked a little, wiping the sleep from his eyes. The sun was already up. High up.

Regard seemed to leap up with a single bound and look about the room bewildered. The fact that he stood there with nothing but his boxers on didn’t seem to bother him as he scurried about the room, collecting his pants and slipping them on as he hopped over to the door where his shirt hung. ”What time is it?” He asked frantically, trying to straighten himself out. ”Fok, I can’t miss church again!”

Watching him bolt up and begin the frantic and clumsy art of re-dressing himself, Neera couldn’t help but have a bewildered smile on her face. It was already 1pm, she couldn’t believe that in the hot day sun they would have this late of church service and the very idea that he was attempting to leave without the whole story was not going to fly with her.

As he headed for the door and his shirt, Neera, once again leaving modesty at the wayside, moved quickly out from under the comforter, “ Way..way..wait a minute mister, you’re not going anywhere until we get the “ she glanced around the room, seemingly hinting that an event had occurred int his space, “particulars out of the way. Cause I don’t know how they do things down here in South Africa, but where I come from, this is not normal circumstances.”

Neera’s hair was tousled, as she kept tucking it behind her ear still desperately trying to bring forward any memory after leaving the pool game last night. She stepped in front of him, grazing that toned torso of his, bringing back a bar memory but that did her no good, other than begin to distract her. She went to the sink and poured two glasses of water, offering one to him, “Besides, I can tell by the minor wincing, that you’re in no shape to be attempting to appear ‘put together’.”

Regard struggled with his shirt, catching his head in an arm hole with his pants still unbuttoned slipping back down his legs as he started to make his way out of the bedroom and toward the front door. Neera slipped by effortlessly, either oblivious to his predicament, or rather eager to keep him trapped there to milk some sort of confession out of him.

Finally freeing his head and slipping it through the proper hole, Regard tugged his pants back up, tucking his shirt in and tightening his belt to ensure no further slips happen. ”Look, doll…” He started, grabbing his sneakers and pulling them on as he started hopping over to Neera standing at the sink. ”We have half a year to figure things out, but I need to go!” Regard leaned into Neera, taking her chin in his hand and kissing her softly on the cheek.

The door slammed shut behind Regard and he found himself standing in the main level hallway. There were others passing through the lobby, several pausing to look around at the sudden commotion. Regard stood there a second before starting down to his own room at the beginning of the hallway, the stares serving as though passing through a gauntlet of sorts. Reaching his door though, he paused again. Wait. He thought. What just happened?

He looked back down the hallway at Neera’s door, a part of him expecting an irate crazy girl to come bursting through. A moment passed and nothing happened. It must be the hang-over. He thought, fumbling with his keys. That didn’t’ just happen.

She stood at the sink, frozen, yet melting. Staying put, but wanting ferociously to follow him. Her mind went numb, “What the hell was that?” her brain trying to register what had just occurred. Her hand touched the now emblazoned spot where his lips had been, “Did he just kiss me?” Neera dumped the glasses in the sink, had they of been glass they would have shattered for sure.

She bolted to her closet and grabbed a pair of cut off sweat pants, the kind that hang a bit off the hips but are so comfy you don’t care and besides, she wasn’t so out of it to leave her apartment without pants.

She swung open the door, finding the hallway to be somewhat occupied with the comings and goings of the Sunday afternoon crowd. Neera’s eyes darted towards the front of the building, seeing Regard still outside his doorway she headed in his direction, suddenly taking notice that Jaco had just stepped through the entryway doors. For a brief moment she was a bit apprehensive, ‘Christ, this was going to look interesting.’

Her breathing was a bit heavy as she stepped against his side and grabbed his bicep, damn he was fit in the arms too, “What the hell was that?” Neera’s tone, insistant and although she tried to keep it hushed, the emotion behind it made that difficult. "First off, I wasn't done talking with you and secondly..." her voice still aggitated but quieter, "You kissed me! And God only knows what else we did last night!"

Regard stood there bewildered as Neera came storming out of her room, reaching him, and grabbing him by the arm. He almost winched as she tightened her grip. His eyes shifted from hers, darting back and forth, trying to recollect the last few minutes of their lives. His eyes caught the stares of those around them, turning his head to look down the hallway behind him. Jaco stood there staring back at the two of them, cocking his head slightly and then heading up towards Regard and Neera.

Regard unlocked his door, and swinging it open, practically tossed Neera into his apartment, slamming the door shut behind them. He pressed her up against the door, her hand still on his on arm, his free arm pressing her shoulder into the door. ”Listen, nothing happened…” He whispered under breath, as though fearing the whole world was listening on right at that moment. ”You better calm down…” He continued harshly, their bodies barely touching, their faces right next to each other. There was a small flame burning inside Regard’s gut as he stood there holding Neera back. His eyes met hers curious as what he would find there. Bewilderment? Surprise? Fear? The sudden rush of adrenaline forced his breathing to grow deep and shallow. His muscles tensed under Neera’s grasp.

”You better calm down…” He said more calmly, Neera’s sweet aroma all of a sudden grabbing Regard’s senses again. His face lingered closer to hers, her labored breath falling on his lips. ”Calm down…” He whispered again, though not to her, not this time, as his lips brushed over hers, and kissed her.

Her body being flung into Regards apartment and then slammed against his door was enough to take the breath from her chest, yet nothing could have prepared her for the lack of oxygen she would soon be experiencing.

Neera’s eye’s darted a bit to read his and as he spoke she found herself, relaxing, even under the tight hold he had on her and when his lips touched hers, well, then there was a new issue.

Her body was on fire as the nerve ending to all sensitive parts soon became very aware of what was going on and as much as her head protested, Neera wasn’t ready to give this moment up. As if a challenge of wits or boundaries, she countered, moving her hand to the back of his neck and kissing him back. Suddenly every word of anger or disgust that she had with him was now culminating into this hunger to be near him.

Their bodies pressed together and their hands moving frantically about each other, as if any loss of touch would end this moment. Their breathing ragged and feverish and Neera could no longer see anything but the blinding white light of lust and wanting.

Using the door as a bit of leverage, she used to her foot to push off and slammed Regard into the adjacent wall, pressing her body up against his and feeling his body ridged with hunger, only seemed to entice her more. His hands moved across her body, making her knees weak and making her feel so wanted and needed. Her core began to ache with desire and she knew that physically nothing felt wrong about this.

Then suddenly she stopped, her breath struggling to find itself as she pulled her lips from his. Neera’s eyes looked into his almost begging for forgiveness, as her voice trembled with regret, “I can’t”, a pause that seemed forever “…not like this.”

Her hand slid off of his chest as she pulled herself away from his embrace and grabbing for the door knob she couldn’t even bare to look back. The door opened, she stepped out and made for her room. She thought she heard Allie yell something to her from up above, but her ears were numb and her heart was still racing. She quickly closed her apartment door behind her, slid down the length of the panel and brought her hands to her head trying to make sense of any of it. ‘What was she thinking?’

Regard slid slowly down the wall, his lips on fire, his heart racing, his ribs aching as though a semi had just collided with him. Slowly, slowly, he slide down to the floor, sitting down, his eyes lost, stuck in a transpired moment. He didn’t move, his arms laying lifeless beside him, tingling, yearning never to forget the tenderness they just experienced. What happened? He thought to himself, mouthing the words. What went wrong?

The door slowly creaked open and Jaco peered through the crack, just his eyes looking past the door’s edge. ”Als alright, boet?” He asked worriedly, entering as though finding the courage to explore a bloodied crime scene. He kneeled down next to Regard, cocking his head to catch Regards gaze. ”Boet, you don’t look all that great.” He continued sympathetically. ”I don’t think I’ve ever seen you act this way before.”

”I’m fine...” Regard apparently finally managed to whisper, his gaze shifting slightly to look at Jaco, regaining some semblance of life. ”I think it was just a hard night.” He finished with a chuckle. Jaco smirked. ”I bet... Regard punched Jaco in the shoulder, sending him rolling down onto his back. Jaco laughed jeeringly as he shuffled away, Regard steadily getting back up.

”Is everything alright?” A gentle voice came from the door, Allie’s face appearing where Jaco’s had been mere moments ago. ”I just saw...” Allie continued, pushing the door open a little more as she turned to look down the hallway where Neera had disappeared into. ”Everything is fine...” Regard interrupted, smiling with a false sense of affirmation. Jaco sneered, taking hold of the door handle and opening it enough to slip by Allie. ”The poor boy had his balls chopped off or something...”

”Oh, you poor thing...” Allie shrilled in gleeful sympathy. ”She can be quite the man-eater, I’ve heard.” She continued matter-of-factly, her hands on her hips. ”By the looks of it, she ate his soul. Jaco finished off, stepping into the hallway. Oh, you poor thing!” Allie continued, walking up to Regard with arms spread open as Jaco closed the door behind him.

The room appeared to be unchanged for at least two centuries, dark, heavy furniture, bookcases, windowsills, mantels, even the slats in the window shouted of a much more prosperous and excessive time. Behind the opulent desk, a bookcase stood filled with ripe leather books, some with gilded script so arcane, it could very easily be older than the Bible itself, one that prominently took a place on an end table next to a richly upholstered Queen Anne chair. The chair Regard found himself sitting in was rather stiff, he thought, although as finely tailored as the rest of the furniture in the room.

”Mr. Van der Westhuizen...” An elderly gentleman behind the desk started, his wrinkled, swollen fingers intertwined in pyramid as he spoke with an air of dignity and superiority, as though he may very well be God himself. ”Although you have made quite a name for yourself here at Stellenbosch University, I do not share in some of my faculty’s admiration of your accomplishments.” The elderly man, his face round, but by no means lean and decrepit nor plump and filled with gout, his head still covered albeit with a fine layer of pure white hair, had a sternness about his words. ”I’ve had to field several... no... numerous... complaints regarding your behavior... and we’re yet a few days into the quarter.”

Regard tried not to make direct eye contact with the Dean. He couldn’t count on both hands and feet how many times he had sat right where he was right now having a conversation, if not the same, at least leading up to this conversation right now. ”So far you have been blessed with the favor of the Arts faculty, yet I will not stand for their endowment any longer. Regard, I am tired of seeing you here. And I’m tired of your kak.”

”Sir, I’ll do my best, sir.” Regard started proudly, as though knowing he had all but accomplished this impossible quest now set before him. "Sir, may I be excused, sir?” He asked, resting his hands on the arm rails in anticipation of the response. The dean just waved him off, casting his looks down to a stack of papers that he drew closer with his other hand. Regard got up and headed for the door. ”Good day, sir.” Regard excused himself, opening the door. "I want you in church Sunday!" The dean hollered, almost in vain, as Regard closed the door behind him.

Jaco and two other students stood waiting outside the office for Regard. So? He finally kicked your ass out?” Jaco asked eagerly, jabbing Regard in the ribs. ”Naw, as long as he’s tossing off Mr. Langenhoven he ain’t going anywhere!” One of the other guys piped in. ”Bogger, I’m going to bliksem you!” Regard responded, glaring at the guy, his fist raised. ”Besides, I don’t have the time anymore after I’m done with Mrs. Venter.” He grinned boyishly, Jaco tussling his hair as he walked by him and playfully punching at the other two.

”Quick game of touch?” Jaco eagerly inquires, producing a rugby ball out of seemingly nowhere. ”Naw, man, I’ve got class in 10 minutes.” Regard responded almost halfheartedly. ”Aight, boet, guess we’ll catch you later then!” The three guys left Regard standing there in the administrative building, disappearing through the large glass door out to the recreation fields. Regard let out a long sigh of relief. Alone at last. He looked up at the clock hanging over a nearby mantle. He really didn’t want to go to class today.

Morning classes were mainly briefings on what the semester held for them, Neera took notes accordingly but basically her thoughts lingered more to where she would be heading after her African History class.

She had spent most of yesterday in the confinement of her apartment, heading out briefly for some groceries and the basics for living on your own for a few months. She tried not to think on that mornings occurrence, infact at one point she had herself convinced that it hadn’t happened at all, that was until she ran into Allie and the girls.

“Say Neera, what did you do to Regard? He looked like crap this morning?" She asked simply and plainly, as if the night in the bar never happened and the two were the best of friends again. A small lump got caught in her throat, “I have no idea what you mean…why would I know anything about Regards condition?” she answered back, she threw a few more things in her grocery basket, to break up the weirdness. “Well I saw you leaving his apartment this morning so I just figured you two had at it or something.”

Neera paused, "Hardly, besides I’m pretty sure you’re more his type than I.” she smiled and grabbed a bag of Cadbury mini-eggs. Allie laughed, “Yeah, I kind of get that vibe too…anyways, don’t worry, he should be feeling better after this afternoon. We’ll see ya later.” She bounced off with the other girls, leaving Neera feeling like she wanted to throw up right there in the isle.

Class was dismissed; Neera grabbed her canvas satchel and headed for the administration building. It was a gorgeous day outside, one she secretly would have rather been spending exploring the city or being exposed to something other than the inside of a classroom, however, that would come soon enough, when her ‘field study work’ would kick in and then the entire country was hers to explore. She let a smile find her lips as she thought about all the things she was on the brink of discovering and as she climbed the administration stairs, her flowy, knee high, white skirt kicking up a bit as she bounded the steps, she had a resurgence of emotion about this entire venture. Just had one thing to take care of and then all would be well. Neera straightened out her sunshine yellow, lace trimmed cami, which her satchel was doing a great job attempting to rearrange for her and entered the building.

The marble stoned floor offered an instance relief from the hot daytime sun and as she entered in the administration office doors, the internal AC was another welcomed sensation. She flung her hair up into a messy ponytail and waited for assistance, looking around at the local artwork that was displayed near the seating area and seeing posters for ‘Study Abroad in the United States’, brought a smile to her face.

“Can I help you miss?” a shorter woman, mid 40’s, very black skin and gorgeous eyes, appeared before her on the other side of the bank teller like patrician. Neera loved hearing the dialect of English speaking South African’s, so proper yet kind of all there own.

“Yes, I need to look into changing my education thesis class, to the second half of the semester please and in turn, I’ll be needing to be assigned a different guide, if at all possible.” She offered a weary smile to the woman, who simply smiled back. “Very well then, let me go grab the paper work and we’ll see what we can do.”

“Thank you.” Neera let out a labored sigh and rested her hands upon her forehead, forcing her elbows to hold her up. She had spent the greater part of her night pondering this decision and it was the only logical conclusion she could truthfully come to. Distractions weren’t a luxury for her here, time was basically of the essence, this wasn’t the time or the place to let juvenile or fleeting feelings get in the way of the bigger picture; no matter how real they felt.

Regard was about to make his way to class when a voice found his ear. This terrible accent was haunting him ever hour of the day, whether awake or lost in his dreams. He thought it rather common, actually, like that spoke by the farmers up in the Transvaal - a brutish tongue devoid of sophistication and command. Yet, here he stood, spellbound, and dangerously curious.

Regard made his way along the back wall, stepping quietly, although by no means too inconspicuous. He positioned himself only a few feet behind Neera as she waited for the admissions lady to return with the forms. He closed his eyes a moment, inhaling deeply. He let out a belaboured sigh - even at this distance, her scent was potent.

”So you’re already planning on leaving me?” He asked Neera, his brazen sarcasm thick on his Afrikaner accent. The admissions lady returned with the forms and slid it out in front of Neera. Regard smiled, and nodded. ”Hello, Gladise. The admissions lady smiled back bashfully. ”Regard... Staying out of trouble? Gladise looked over at Neera, smiling knowingly.

”And what is this? Transfer papers?” Regard looked at Neera incredulously. ”Really now? We’ve barely gotten to know each other yet...” He snatched the paperwork out from beneath Neera’s hands and started to walk away, pretending to read the instructions. ”Gladise, this young lady here will have none of this, will you?” He smiled at Neera boyishly, though it seemed without his usual luster. He was bluffing and prayed she would fold.

His presence startled her, infact, completely blindsided her. Somehow she had managed to go almost a full 24 hours without seeing him and to have him appear here, at this moment was almost too much for her to filter.

“Actually, yes, I will be having it and I’d appreciate it if you kept yourself busy in your own affairs for a change.” She took a few steps snatching the papers back from his hands, barely taking the time to look at him. Neera knew any instance left to linger would for surely result in weakness and she had been working herself up to this bit of business since last night Returning to the counter she smiled and tried to shrug him off as she spoke to the woman, “I’m sorry, now what is it that you exactly were the particulars with these forms?”

She could feel Regards eyes on her as she continued her discussion, “So you’re saying that there are no current openings, but that should someone drop out by the end of the week, I can have that spot.” She let out a semi-flustered sigh, “Alright, I guess I’ll have to settle with that then. Thank you.”

Neera pocketed the transfer sheets in her satchel and made her way out the office door into the large foyer type hallway of the administration building. As Regard followed she knew she had to say something, do something, and make some sort of gesture in reason. She stopped abruptly and turned to face him, practically running smack into him and frankly ending up a little closer than she would have liked.

Her emerald eyes looked up to his as she tried desperately to focus on the task at hand, “Look, whatever happened or didn’t happen yesterday, we can just chalk up to a mistake. Two people with hangovers and not thinking clearly and…” she was going a bit fuzzy but she stammered through, although it was killing her not to touch him, in some manor of fashion and his scent was driving her mad.

“I only have a limited amount of time here and I can’t very well stay focused on my objective knowing that there’s this thing between us, so ending the uneasiness before it even starts just seems the best logical step.” Neera was speaking logically but everything in her head was screaming contradictory opinions.

She was wringing her hands a she spoke and could feel herself getting a bit flushed before she spoke her final peace, “You’re a distraction for me Regard. You have been since the first moment I met you and no matter what anything else tells me, I can’t be ‘that’ person to you.” A small lump in her throat had formed, “I just can’t.” She slowly backed away and began to turn towards the large glass doors, as she wearily smiled “That’s what Allie’s for.”

Regard had stood there and said nothing as Neera took care of her business, his legs partially crossed, his arms tied behind his back. There was a certain air of coolness about him, as though he had foreseen there transpiring events. Or perhaps rather, it was not the first time he had to stare at the backside of a beautiful woman's head who was desperately trying to escape his whiles. Regard smiled coyly as listened patiently for Gladise to give Neera the bad news. And it hit like a truck, Neera's shoulders sinking in apparent disappointment that her future was now sealed by fate and fate alone.

Still, Regard said not a word as she followed her through this large glass doors, his smile only growing broader. He was as a leopard stalking his pray, knowing that nothing she could do could detract from her inevitable demise. When Neera abruptly stopped, however, he nearly plowed right through her; was it not for some unnatural balance, he may just have had a second helping of her body pressed against his.

Patiently he stood as Neera started on her tirade. He knew that deep down inside he must've been making her furious as his face never showed a hint of concern. Why was it that, he thought to himself, these girls think that coming here would be purely educational. He chuckled to himself, reflecting more on this revelation than on her speech. For a moment he caught her eye and he allowed himself to languish in those emerald pools.

When Neera turned and started walking away again, Regard finally spoke. ”Are you done?” He called on after her, not moving from his spot. She didn't turn, and at first, seemed as though she would just keep on going. ”You're full of it...” He continued, leaning back slightly and crossing his arms across his chest. ”Why can't you just accept that this isn't chance? You can't escape this. You're in Africa. And I've been put in your path to show her to you.” Regard smiled wryly. Sometimes reputations get in the way of who you really are. Neera's last comment had cut deep. Though it only seem to make him harder, more determined. Yet, to what end, he didn't know.

”Stop trying to rationalize this. And in God's name, stop running your mouth. You're really just talking shit. I'll catch you at the gala tonight...” Regard turned and started towards the class he was now already late for. This girl was turning out to be nothing but trouble for him. And so close to being done with it all, here he may just be at the verge of throwing it all away for a fling. She just touched him in some way, though. And something inside him just screamed that he could not let her pass by without at least trying.

As Regards last bits of conversation flew on the wind to her ears, she had practically exited the admissions building’s doors. Neera caught herself from hitting the first step and turned on her heel and re-entered the space just in time to see Regard pass through the opposite set of doors on the adjacent end of the corridor.

Her mind swam with what she would say to him but secretly she was a bit thrilled that she’d get to be close to him and yes, once again, tick him off. Her hands pressed against the glass of the doors allowing her feminine form to emerge from the same exit as Regard had just departed through; her eyes picked him up some twenty feet in front of her amidst a few other students moving along the walkway and a game of unorganized rugby going on, over on one of the surrounding patches of lawn but to each she paid no attention as she hurried herself next to him.

Moving quickly towards him, her hand reached out and somewhat similar to yesterday morning she grabbed his bicep, “Hey, you’re not getting off that easy mister and incase you haven’t noticed, I’m not the only one between the two of us whose seems to enjoy running their mouth.” Neera removed her hand once she was certain of his attention, her breathing had become heightened again, God how he brought out the anger in her and yet she found herself reveling in the way he challenged her.

“Do you really think that I would put my entire future in jeopardy because of some native ‘seun’, who felt the need to try out the foreign cuisine just for kicks? Oh wait, no, I’m wrong, that’s what Allie’s for. I’d simply be the foreigner playing the role of the only person around here with enough sense to see through your Peter Pan scheme and have the insight or better yet, tenacity to call you on it.”

She looked straight into his eyes as the people around them seemed to pass by in urgency not wanting to get caught in the heated discussion, even though the volume never went above conversation level but body language said it all.

“Now who’s full of it?” she raised an eyebrow as she took a small step back from him, dying a little bit inside at each word of detachment.

Regard looked around at the few people who had stopped what they were doing to observe the scene unfolding on the sidelines; and with a stern grimace he leaned in towards Neera, resting a hand on her shoulder as he gently coaxed her body slightly away from their audience.

”Listen...” He started in a hushed voice. ”You've been nothing but a thorn in my side since the minute you walked into my world.” His eyes glanced around him again as though hoping nobody was watching anymore, though resolving himself to that at least no one was in earshot, he continued.

”I've been mocked, called into the dean's office, and now you're making me even later for class than I already was. So now if you would excuse me, I have to go unless you don't want to be the only one whose future may be fucked.” The harsh words rolled over Regard's lips with a bitter elegance as he let go of Neera's shoulder and started to turn away from her, stepping backwards and not once leaving her gaze.

”And stop trying to impress me...” He finished coldly and more audibly as he made his turn. "I understand American just fine...” Although he thought it endearing that she tried.

Neera scoffed a bit at Regards remarks and swallowed hard, “Impress you? Hardly. If I was trying to do anything it was simply to adapt myself to my surroundings, you know, follow by example.” Her tone matter of fact as she readjusted her satchel and turned to head back towards the administration doors.

“So I guess you could say you’ve done a bang up job at exposing the ‘true’ image of a South African for me, afterall, isn’t it the ‘guides’ job to introduce us lowly, Americans to the real soul of the country? Or was a bunch of bullshit too?” Her words harsh as she started her walk to the administration building, not really knowing how much of her words lingered in his ears or not. Neera’s head turned towards the rugby game that was continuing on the grassy knoll just to her left, if her days could only be that simple.

She needed to be away from him; his image was emblazed on her eyes even as she shut them briefly to compose herself. She needed to get away from the campus for awhile, just to experience something other than what was currently driving her insane.

Regard turned around with a deeply annoyed grimace on this face, his hands hovering besides his head in clenched fists as though he longed to beat the stuffing out of something - or someone? ”You're insufferable!” He yelled after Neera, throwing his hands into the air as he turned away from her, casting his eyes towards the clouds in prayer for some strength. He paused for a moment as he hung his head in vain. He looked down at his wristwatch and let out a long and laboured sigh. By the time he made to class, it would practically be over. And like he really needed another professor breathing down his neck.

”Fine...” Regard exclaimed, turning back around to face Neera. ”Let's go then!” He hollered after her as she inched towards the administration building again, catching her as she's caught off-guard by the ongoing game on the green. Regard started back towards Neera as he continued to speak. ”Let's go right now then, and I'll show you a sight or two.” For all it was worth, Regard's voice wasn't all that pleasant at the moment, deep and serious, almost dark. He was proposing to prove a point, one he apparently wasn't to keen on proving.

Com'on, while we still have light, already! He blustered impatiently, extending a hand towards Neera. ”My bike is around the back, you don't have a problem with that do you?” Regard cocked a brow eager to get going. He hoped that in the very least he'd be able to knock some sense into this girl. He smirked to himself, almost chuckling. He really wanted to knock some sense into that girl.

Turning her body back to him, almost offering a ‘you want to do what?’ kind of posture, her eyes stared down at his out-stretched hand, like some priceless object she wasn’t sure exactly how or if she should take hold of and as upset as she was right now, a tiny part of her was screaming, ‘leap’.

“Right now?” her words questioning before he went on about daylight and his bike. For some reason she hadn’t pictured him to be a motorcycle guy, kind of added a bit more mystique to this insufferable man that fate had so jokingly placed in her path.

Her brain went into thinking mode as she tried to weigh the consequences of her decision; if she went, she’d be at his mercy for however long he decided to keep her captive, however, on the off chance that he actually had something wonderful to show her, it could possibly be worth it or she could refuse and deal with his intolerable ribbing about not willing to try something new or get out of her comfort zone.

“No. No problem at all.” Her voice confident and strong, never wavering in the least although her gut was swimming with butterflies for more than a few reasons.