Gcina placed her hand on Faye’s shoulder. “Listen to me. Your friend’s lung has partially collapsed. She’s in a bad way. We need to get her to the hospital quickly. But there’s more.”

“What?” Faye wasn’t sure she wanted to hear the answer.

“We weren’t told there were two of you. And, well, it’s a small helicopter. We’re at capacity with your friend.”

“It’s okay. Go,” said Faye, relief flooding over her. She hadn’t, she realised, imagined getting into the chopper herself at all.

Gcina squinted at her. “I could stay here with you until the others come back . . . probably tomorrow.”

“No. You must go. You need to be with Clare. I’m fine. I’ll walk to the hut.”

“Hut?”

“The hikers’ hut. Heuningbos. It’s less than two hours from here. Easy hike. I know the way. There’s food there, dry clothes. I’ll go and wait until the rangers get to me tomorrow. Or whenever.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. I’ve eaten now. I’ll be okay. Please. Don’t delay. Take Clare.”

Gcina looked uncertain. She glanced at the purpling sky. “Do you have a torch?”

“Not with me.”

There was a whining sound as the helicopter started up behind them. Gcina trotted back and spoke to the men.

“You’re a brave woman,” she said when she returned to Faye and handed her a small torch. “You’re sure there’s food there?”

“Thanks. I’ll be fine.”

“Tim has radioed the rangers’ office. They know you’ll be there so hopefully will arrive early tomorrow.”

“Thank you. Just one thing. Do you know about the others? Are they all okay?”

“I’m sorry. We came directly from town. Given this location and told to collect one injured patient. Nothing more. We could radio now.”

“No. Don’t worry. It’s okay. You must get going. I’ll find out tomorrow.”

The rotor was spinning. Gcina seemed reluctant to go.

“Can I give you a quick hug?” she asked Faye.

The women embraced briefly and Faye followed her closer to the helicopter, crouching and peering in at Clare, who lay facing the door. Her eyes were closed, her face pale and translucent. She showed no sign of life.

Thirty-One

Thirty-One

The narrow wall outside the cottage the friends had been allocated near the rangers’ office was just large enough for them to sit on. Bruce had finally convinced Geoffrey to eat and drink something by the time they saw Simon approaching, his head bowed. The group straightened their backs as one. They stared at him, trying to read his posture.

He looked up and said, “She’s on her way to hospital in Mossel Bay. They’ll let us know as soon as the doctors have had a chance to examine her.”

“But she’s okay? Stable?” asked Geoffrey, getting to his feet.