CYNTHIA: My little girl, she can't understand why everything has changed. Why her little friends are not allowed to play with her at home any more… Why I sit here at home all day long crocheting babies bootees. I have tried to explain to her, but how can she understand? How can anyone understand?

Last week her school presented a play and she was in it. But I was not there to share in her proudest moment. She couldn't understand why. Other mothers were there. I used to go with her to her school concerts. I used to accompany her to her friends’ homes to attend their birthday parties. I used to take her to the cinema, or to visit grandma in Orlando East. Now I can't do that any more.

[Pause]

Because the law won't allow it.

Next week she will be celebrating her ninth birthday.

She says she would like to have a party and invite all her friends. How do I tell her that a party in this house would be a risky business? I could end in jail.

All her friends have their parties at their own homes. I'll have to think of something. Maybe hold the party at a neighbour's house. And of course I can't be there myself to see her blow out her nine candles and make a wish. The law, you know. How can anyone understand?

The day after the battle with Mrs Van Wyk, I was late at work. There was excitement when I got into the office.

WOMAN: Cynthia, the boss wants to see you.

CYNTHIA: A few minutes late and the boss wants to see me?

WOMAN: Not about that. Something happened. And she looks real mad. Better go into her office at once.

SFX: A knock

MRS VAN WYK: Come in!

SFX: Footsteps coming on mic

MRS VAN WYK: Well, what do you have to say for yourself?

CYNTHIA: Nothing.

MRS VAN WYK: Nothing, eh? A man almost kills himself, and you say nothing.

CYNTHIA: Mrs Van Wyk, I don't know what you are talking about.

MRS VAN WYK: Was it not only yesterday that you were telling me you were not going to handle a certain Alexandra Township case?