Chapter 6

“Well, well. I'm starting to believe it's fate.”

I whipped around to see Rodney. His eyes had already trailed down my body. I watched him scan my legs and shifted my weight to the left as I placed a hand on my hip. He darted his eyes up and I blinked at him through my blank stare.

“You got it memorized? Or should I hold this pose and let you get another scan?”

He skipped right pass a smirk as a smile spread clean across his face. A smile that complimented his face structure. Never had I encountered a man that was nothing but handsome to me. I couldn't even toss him off in the category of sexy. He's just... handsome. How that works, I have no idea. Something new to me. Something fascinating to me.

“I'm merely appreciating you.”

I expected a chuckle or something to follow his comment but he held that same smile, as if it was locked in.

“Are you not used to appreciation?”

I laughed and turned to make my way to the register so I could get out of this store.

“Eyes are looking over me all the time, Mr. Rodney. Nothing surprises me anymore.”

“I'm sure eyes are over you all the time but that's not what I asked. A lot of niggas look but how many men take the time to appreciate?”

“Do you always speak like this? How many girls fall for this game you spit? Be honest with me. I won't judge.”

“Game I spit?”

I sat a pack of gum on the counter and grabbed a few now and laters out of the bucket while waiting on the clerk to find his damn way on this end of the counter.

“You mean speak like a grown man and not like a lil ass boy with no manners, education, or enough sense to at least fake enough of the two so that they may appear to be about something?”

He was doing it again. I silently laughed as I watched the clerk finish up with the customer who was taking forever choosing an alternate pack of cigarettes. Bitch, they're all cancer. Hurry up and choose your ticket to a slow death. My eyes derailed down to Rodney's hand that sat the Arizona Tea down next to my candy and gum. I hadn't even noticed I walked off without it. I was just trying to make my move so I can get out of here.

I rolled my eyes dramatically when the customer and the clerk made their way back on our end. I stepped back letting him ring her up so she could move. Bitch didn't even buy a pack. Wasting my time in here trying to get loose cigarettes. I pushed my items up and paused when my flow was interrupted by Rodney's hand reaching pass me to hand money to the clerk.

“And for the record, I never go after girls.” He allowed the clerk to bag my items and toss the change into the bag before he took the bag and placed his hand on my back. “I prefer women.”

He moved around me to get the door. I reached for my bag and he moved his hand in another direction as he released the door again and let his free hand find its way back to my back. I raised my eyebrow and slowed my pace as he attempted to guide me pass my car.

“Alright there, buddy. I'll be going this way.”

I turned toward my car and did a 360 as he made the spin with me, turning me back in the direction he wanted to go. I planted my feet in the ground when a truck pulled around and he reached for the door.

“Okay now. You're getting just a little bit creepy.” I held up my fingers to present him with measurements although my facial expression measured a mile.

“You never got back to me like you said you would. Just have a talk with me.”

“Okay. That's easy. I'll giv-”

“Apart from the phone.”

He gestured for me to climb in the truck.

“All I'm asking for is a little of your time.”

“What are you doing?”

I searched his face for real explanations. Desperately trying to see pass everything and get to the bottom of what was really going on in that mind of his. His eyes pierced into my eyes as he held us in place, standing in front of this door like he really expected me to climb right on in.

“I told you that. Very thing I asked for when we met at the hospital. When we first spoke on the phone. Right this very minute. Just a little of your time.”

Staring into his serious face, I reached for my phone and squinted.

“Well that sounds nice but-”

He licked his lips and looked off to the side before I could even get to the but. I reached up and placed my fingertips on his chin.

“BUT I have some things to handle now. Rain check?”

He pushed the bag into my hand and leaned more towards the door. I tapped his chin before using my finger to pull his gaze my way when he didn't turn his head on his own. Though a new look escaped his eyes, he still put on that same smile.

“Yeah.”

Though he spoke only one word, his voice was different too. Disappointment. I knew that all too well. If no one was familiar with that, I was best friends with it all of my life. As if he had to convince me, he shook his head before stepping back a little. I took the hint and backed away from the door. I walked toward my car and expected to look back and see his truck pulling off or something. Much to my surprise, before I could look over my shoulder good, my attention was snatched by the sound of a hand on my car door. I looked to my right to see him opening my car door.

“Be safe.”

“Thank you.”

I climbed in the car and sunk into my seat as he closed it and turned to walk back to his truck. I took note of how he rode in the back seat of his truck. I wonder if he ever sits shotgun like Montey does. He never sits in the back. I guess he feels powerless in the back when in reality, he had it all wrong. But that's Montey ass. He's always had it all wrong, still has it all wrong, and will forever have the shit all wrong. I shook my head thinking about how this nigga gon hold a meeting without me.

--

“And what are you doing here?”

“My invitation must have gotten lost in route.”

I sat in the swivel chair and spun around to cross my legs. I leaned an arm on the table and looked around at the many faces looking at me.

“Oh, I'm settled in now. Continue.” I blinked as the faces darted towards Montey before darting back at me. “Please?”

Montey shifted in his seat and before I could react, Bo grabbed my arm and roughly yanked me up from my seat.

“I'll handle this.”

“Nigga.” I stared at his tight grip on my arm as he dragged me out of the room. “What the fuck is your prob-”

“Get the fuck out of here.”

He leaned closely to me and spoke just after the door slammed shut behind us.

“I'm a part of thi-”

“Do I have to escort you all the way out of here too?”

He stepped closer to me and gave me a daring look. I licked my lips and shook my head as I chuckled. I glared over to the side before walking back the way I came in.

–

“What the hell you partying for?”

I giggled into my glass before twirling around and falling on my bed.

“Join me.”

“You didn't ask nicely.”

“Join me, please.”

“You didn't answer the question.”

I watched Bo shake his head as he scanned over all the liquor I had lined up around the table.

“I couldn't make up my mind.”

I spoke up but frowned when he started closing the bottles and putting them back into the box that I kicked under the table.

“What are you doing?”

“You've had enough.”

“You don't know that.”

“I always know.”

I frowned more when he made his way towards the refrigerator. I knew what was coming. I turned the glass up to finish what I had left. He turned back around the corner with a bottle of water. I coughed and pulled the glass back before I could spit any back into the glass.

“Girl, you still do this shit?”

I rubbed my chest because of the burning sensation as I recovered the cough. I heard him laugh when I held the glass to my lips again.

“You don't gotta do that shit. I'ma let you finish.”

He opened the water before sitting next to me on the bed.

“Good... because I need it. You were really rough with me.”

I pouted and he laughed louder then held his hand out for the glass. I ignored the gesture and took another sip. He held his hand closer to me.

“You know what it is.”

“What is it?”

I looked over at him and tilted my head.

“You know.”

“And you bruised my arm.”

“And you a damn lie.”

We burst out laughing at the same time.

“You gotta quit playing with this man. We've been going over this for years.”

“And I haven't been caring for years.”

“I gotta constantly cover your ass, Tasha. Help me out here. Nigga already look at your ass stupid. How you think he'll look at me if he know you my sister?”

“The fuck that gotta do with anything?”

“He'll know I'll do anything for your ass. I'm sitting in a good place with him and if he thinks our personal bond will jeopardize my business with him, that shit will knock me down. That's what you want?”

“If you for me, you for me. I don't ever let any thought dare cross my mind about how I'ma be for you.”

“You taking this shit a whole nother route, Tasha.”

He reached over and took the glass out of my hand rather than asking for it again.

“You know I'm for you. Always have been. Even when I didn't know your ass so don't start that shit.”

I bucked my eyes as my vision began to take a journey as the room got blurry and colors brightened.

“You don't have to worry about me.”

“Bullshit. I've been having to worry about your ass since the first day we met.”

--

I squeezed my eyes tight at my best attempt to not break down right here right now. I leaned forward and rested my forehead on Lady's tummy. She still smelled of milk and honey. I rubbed her tummy as I leaned back to look over her again. Seeing the dirt on her fur, I immediately wanted to bathe her again. I knew it was crazy but I couldn't handle seeing how low that nigga had to stoop. This was no accident. He'd purposely gotten her dirty just to make matters worse. I looked over her face that appeared she was in a deep sleep. My tears began to fall as my hand glided across her tummy that wasn't moving up and down.

Taking in a deep breath, I couldn't restrain from frowning as I shot my head up to look at the face that was staring at me. I tried to shoot daggers through the middle of his eyes as he burned a hole through me.

“What the fuck are you looking at?!”

My breathing became irregular as I got more upset than I already was. To add to my anger, he gave no reaction. He still stood there. He still stared. He still was getting on my fucking nerves. I roughly wiped at the tears on my face and pushed myself up from the lawn. I backed up and swiftly turned to run into the house. Stomping right into my uncles bedroom, I angrily snatched the bedspread right off of his bed.

“You punk bitch!”

I balled it up in my arms as I dragged it down the hall and back towards the front door. I kicked the door open and yanked the spread behind me as I rushed over to Lady. I fell to my knees once again and tried to block out my aching heart at the sight of her laid across the grass lifeless. I spread the bedspread across the grass and crawled over to Lady.

“I just bathed you.” I choked on my words as I tugged at her head to lift it. I dropped my head and released a sob as the drool dripped out of her mouth. “Oh, God.”

I looked up to the sky and blinked back the tears that were blinding my vision before returning to my task. I shifted on the ground and leaned more into her body then attempted to lift her again. I ignored the feel of her tongue resting on my arm as I tugged her head higher and slipped my arm under her front legs. My heart jumped and ready to attack in the defense of my best friend, I shot my head up so quickly that my neck popped.

Moving quickly than I could possibly do on my own, he tossed the lifeless body of the full grown pit in his arms and jumped to his knees to support the weight. I moved back a little and rushed to my feet to stand to the side of him. I held my hands underneath Lady's head so that it wasn't dangling free putting her in any discomfort. I took quick little steps to keep up with him as he took a couple of wide steps forward onto the bedspread. He slowly inched down towards the bedspread and with much respect, gently laid Lady in the middle.

I sat next to her and moved her head around to make her as comfortable as possible. I knocked the spread back before rubbing her fur down. Ignoring those same eyes that were once across the street but now hovering over me, I crawled backwards until I was no longer on the spread. I folded the spread halfway towards her before doing the same to the other three corners. I grabbed the first folded side and moved closer to her then placed it over her. Taking my cue, that nosy ass boy picked up a corner and did the same.

My eyes landed on his hand as it brushed against mine. I scanned up his arm and for a split second, everything froze as we met eyes and locked in on each other. He nodded and we both turned to grab the other two corners of the spread. He stood over Lady while holding his end as I rolled my end into a pillow and tucked it underneath her head. When I backed up, he tossed the spread over her then let me fix it to my liking.

“What's her name?”

I patted her head and glided my hand across her face.

“What happened to her?”

“You never deserved any of this.” I whispered to her while rubbing her chin.

“Well do you know where you're going to tak-”

“Lady was poisoned! And do I look like I have somewhere to take her?!”

I snapped on him while glaring right through him sending a warning to cease his stupid ass questions. He slipped his hands in his pockets and shrugged as if he wasn't bothered by my attitude like he was used to it or something. Staring down at Lady, for the first time since discovering her laying out in the yard like she was nothing, I pondered that million dollar question he was asking. After being swarmed around by silence for a couple of minutes, he took a step back. Swallowing my pride, I yelled out at him to stop him from going away.

“Do you know a number?!”

He paused and turned back in my direction. I darted my eyes down towards the ground.

“Do you know a number to call for someone to pick her up? You know? Aren't there people who pick up deceased animals?”

“They don't pick up pets. That's the owner's responsibility. The city will only come for a stray that's been sitting around too long and getting complaints or something.”

My heart dropped. I had absolutely no idea of what else I could do.

“Can you help me move her?”

“Where?”

“I don't know. Out of the sun?”

–

“Hey.”

I squinted when I thought I heard something.

“Hey!”

I blinked and stared harder at the darkness coming from the direction of my window. Slowly pushing my covers back, I got up and stared harder at the window. I inched closer, waiting to determine whether I was really hearing something or if I was going crazy.

“Yo! Lil Lady!”

“K, that I definitely hear.”

I moved quickly to the window and slowly inched my finger through the blinds. I pushed one down trying not to show much evidence of my presence. Peeking out, I scanned around full of suspicion until he moved around within view. I saw him checking his surroundings before leaning toward the window again.

“Lil La-”

I yanked the blinds down and he paused. He pushed up off of the bricks and waited. I stared at him staring back at me until he held his arms out as if questioning the hold up. I nodded then rushed toward my closet to grab a pair of jogging pants. I hopped on one foot while putting on my sock and leaned against the wall to put on the other. Walking over to the window, I peeked out to see him gone. I sat at the foot of my bed and put on my shoes before snatching my jacket off my chair as I headed out of my room.

Looking over my shoulder, I checked to see if anyone was awake. Backtracking to look into my uncle's room, I frowned when he wasn't there. Not really caring, I turned my focus to putting on my jacket. I paused near the living room to take in the time on the clock.

“The fuck? It's nearly 2am.”

I frowned while unlocking the door and stepping out. I stood on the porch and yanked my hood on my head then slid my hands into my pocket to shield from the late night breeze. I jumped out of fear when he appeared out of nowhere to right before my eyes in a split second. His hands immediately tugged at the end of my jacket. Our eyes met as he zipped me up.

“Get the back door open.”

I looked pass him after he nodded his head toward the car then walked off. I looked over to see him walking over where we sat the basket that cradled Lady's lifeless body. He reappeared with what once was a laundry basket and I hurriedly made my way across the yard and to the car that was parked a couple of houses down.

“Why didn't you park closer to the house?”

I questioned without looking back because I heard his footsteps close behind. I opened the back door and stepped out of the way. Looking over the car, I raised an eyebrow at how nice the car was.

“Is this your car?”

I looked over to see him leaning over the basket.

“Are you sniffing her? What the fuck?”

“She hasn't started smelling funny yet. She smells sweet. Kinda like... honey?”

“Honey and milk. It's a body wash scent. Get away from her.”

I pushed him back and closed the door.

“Wait. You put body wash on a dog?”

I yanked open the passenger side door and climbed in without answering him.

–

I lifted my arms and stretched.

“Take a seat.”

I moved my shoulders around before lifting the shovel.

“Go ahead.” He said again while taking the shovel out of my hand. “Have a seat.”

I backed away just as he tossed the shovel to the side. I removed the gloves while I watched him finish off shoveling the dirt onto the grave we made for Lady. A grave. At least she has a grave. A small smile crept onto my face as I got lost in my thoughts.

“You good Lil Lady?”

I snapped out of my trance at the sound of his voice. I looked over the completed grave. He was pulling off his gloves that were much more filthier than mine because he had done most of the work, only allowing me to help out when I demanded to be hands on for MY pet.

“You keep rubbing your neck.”

He pointed out my actions that I was unaware of until now.

“I just feel a little... locked up I guess.”

“Need to pop your neck?”

“I already did. It's my back.”

“Lemme see.”

I watched him look over himself as if he was checking his clothes. He walked around me and swiftly reached around me to hold my arms up.

“Assume the position.”

“What?”

I laughed at him speaking it in such a serious tone.

“Just do it.”

I laughed more as I raised my arms and locked my fingers behind my head. My smile faded when he guided my hands down to my neck and without warning, locked his arms around mine. His hands applied pressure to my hands and I went to object but remained silent out of shock as my feet left the ground. I bucked my eyes as my body dangled in the air.

“Boy-”

He leaned back causing my body to bend backward and fall against his. He bounced me one time and I heard a small crack.

“Ow.”

I kicked my foot out ready to fight his ass when he bounced me again but harder and a series of pops sounded off. Besides the awkward position, my back felt good.

I darted my eyes around in awe, never experiencing something so weird before. He stepped around me and looked into my face.

“Feel better?”

“Better than ever actually.”

“Ready to head back?”

“How will I know where she is?”

“It's a fresh grave.”

“No. It won't always be like this.”

“Third tree from the log over there.”

“No! We have to mark it.”

“Well we'll figure something out.”

He folded his arms across his chest and stared down at the fresh grave that stood out from the rest of the soil in the middle of the woods.

“You can maybe get one of those rocks that people decorate their gardens with. You know? It can pass for a tombstone.”

“You think so?”

“Yeah.”

“Will it be big like a tombstone?”

“Damn, Lil Lady. Haven't you ever watched those stupid house decorating shows or something with your mama? We can use a landscape stone as a matter of fact.”

“What's that?”

“You know, it's sort of like a big rock that-”

“What's a mama?”

“Oh.” He spoke in a hushed tone as he realized his misunderstanding of my question. “Sorry.”

“I'm not. I kind of got over that.”

I folded my arms and remained staring at Lady's grave.

“And my name is Tasha.”

“I was sort of getting used to Lil Lady.”

“It's been getting on my damn nerves.”

He chuckled and held out a hand.

“Bo.”

“That doesn't sound like anything that's on a birth certificate.”

“And Tasha sounds short.”

I stared at his hand that was still holding its ground as he replied to me with the same smart ass tone I spoke in. I bit the corner of my lip for a second.

“Latasha.”

“Kyle.”

I looked over at him with a big grin on my face. He shook his head then laughed when my giggles finally escaped through my grin. He went to lower his hand but I caught it.

“Evelyn.”

I gripped his hand tighter and shook it. I looked forward after confusion flooded his face.

“Evelyn Latasha Richardson.”

He gripped my hand and returned the shake.

“Kyle Aiden Curtis.”

I laughed at his name again, more intrigued by his whole name.

“Your mama was siddity, huh?”

“What's a mama?”

He smirked and we released our hands at the same time.

“Yeah. I feel you on that.”

“So tell me something.”

“Like?”

“I don't know. Something bout you.”

“Why don't you tell me something about you. You go off into woods a lot?”

“I don't know. Maybe I do.”

“You can be some thirst bucket who tricked me into coming out here so you can force your way with me then leave me for dead.”

“You can be some psychopath who tricked me into a situation that leads us out here so you can force your way on me then leave ME for dead.”

“You're a weirdo.”

“Yup. I was thinking the same about you. In the middle of the woods having conversation like we're at the beach under the stars. Two weirdos. Guess this makes us partners now.”

“Says who?”

“Says the guy with the car.”

“How do I even know it's your car?”

“All you need to know is that you want to get back home.”

“You got a slick mouth. Let me drive back.” I held my hand out, purposely holding it right in front of his pocket.

“Can you drive?”

“We can find out.”

“Hell nah.”

–

“Bo.” I whined while climbing over his legs. “Get up.”

He pushed my leg as I rolled over his body. He went to roll over in the bed when I caught his shirt. He was supposed to be entertaining me yet here he was laid out going to sleep. Nigga need to get up and drink with me. If only he knew my plans to flee this place. Sleep would be the last thing on his mind right now. Doesn't seem like a bad place really but I can't. I come here to lay low and and end up caught up in someone's mixed up world. This was not a place to settle down. I really have no choice but to leave. And that's what I've been telling myself all day... and I still hadn't convinced myself yet.

“Come on.” I punched him. “Pop my back.”

“Pop it your damn self.”

“Seriously. It's bothering me.”

“No, it's not.”

“You're a jerk!”

I slapped his arm before snatching up my phone. I checked the charge before removing it from the charger and climbing over Bo again.

“Damn, girl. You can't walk around?”

“Nigga, you in my shit. You better shut up.” I spit at him as I fell back on my pillow.

 “YOU better shut up.”

“Nah, you better shut up before I kick your ass.”

“Your drunk ass can't even walk around the bed. Now shut up while I'm tryna sleep.”

“Ain't nobody scared of your ass, Bo. You harmless ass runt.”

I reached over to run my hand along his face and he swiped at my hand.

“Move, girl. You been getting on a nigga nerves since day one.”

“And you ain't went nowhere yet. We're in love.”

I threw my body over on him and giggled when he pushed me away.

“Fine. I'm calling the love of my life now anyway.”

I reached over and smacked his ass. Flinching and blinking like crazy, I scooted like a mad woman trying to quickly get away from his hand that raised high and I already knew what was to come when it impacted with my leg. I yelped when I fell back off of the bed and landed on my backside.

“Owwww.”

I pouted while rolling over in slow motion. Not sure if I was actually in slow motion or if my drunken mind appeared in this state.

“Hey.” I tried to offer a smile through my hushed tone when I heard his voice that was very much alert. “You sound wide awake.”

“I am awake.”

“I thought I would be interrupting your sleep at this time of night.”

“Morning.” He corrected before continuing. “And yet you still called.”

“Well maybe I needed to hear your voice.” I playfully cooed into the phone. I sat up in time enough to see Bo slamming a pillow on his head as if I was really disturbing him. Well I was and I knew it. He was seriously trying to sleep and for the pass hour, I did everything my mind could think of to fuck with him. He's a bore to me now.

“You're in a good mood.”

I knew Rodney made a statement but it rolled off of his tongue like a question. I giggled while making my way to the bathroom, only bumping the chair and one wall.

“Yeah. You slipped a little something in my tea.”

“Or maybe you slipped a whole lot of something in your tea yourself. That's what it sounds like to me.”

“Maybe I did. What's your excuse? Why are you up?”

“Maybe I got stuff on my mind.”

“Aw, poor baby. Just can't get me out of it. You need mommy to come over and cuddle with you so you can fall asleep?”

He laughed and politely swerved my invitation to a flirt spree.

“This is the easiest it's ever been to speak to you. You always like to play when you've been drinking?”

“What do you mean?”

I went from playful to defensive in a split second.

“I'm just surprised that YOU called ME.”

“Whatever.” He was just as boring to me right now as Bo was because just like him, he wasn't letting me have my way. “Send the time and place to my phone. Alright?”

“What?”

“You said you wanted a little of my time.”

“Oh. I finally get to take you out to dinner?”

“I thought you were a grown man.”

“I am a grown man."

"You don't sound like one right now?"

"How much am I supposed to take this serious when a girl shot me down twice but all of a sudden call me in a drunken state now on another page?”

This nigga was taking shots at me.

“Now I'm a girl?”

“Look Tasha, if you hadn't caught on, I'm not one for the gam-”

“There's plenty of numbers I could have dialed and it didn't have to be yours.”

I hung up before he could say another word. Maybe I'm being dramatic about this. Maybe it's the liquor that's making me take offense to his words. Or maybe it's simply Tasha not liking the truth being served to her. I ignored the call that was coming in and leaned back against the tub. When did I end up on the floor, in this short amount of time, I don't even remember. My ass should be asleep. I answered the phone when his call came through not long after the first ignored call.

“What?”

“Am I meant to believe you'll show up?”

“I'm saying I will.”

It was quiet for a minute as we listened to each other breathe and when that got old we listened to each others backgrounds.

“I'm just gonna go to sleep.”

“I'll send you the time and place.”

I hung up without giving him a proper goodnight. Staring at the bathroom door, I scolded myself. Why must you fight against everything? Even when it feels like it's something right. That's the problem. It feels right. He makes it feel right. No matter how much I try to deny it, I enjoy it. I enjoy him. He's right. There's a difference between boys and men. He's a man that can be so right in my life right now. And it's back to this. How can I allow myself to do this with him when I'm all wrong? I don't know how to take anything for what it is. All I know is fight. All I've ever had to do was put up a fight. Fight is in me. Even when it's something right... all I'll ever do is fight it.

–

I spun around to the heavy steps coming from the side of the house. Two cops came rushing around the corner and immediately put all focus on me. One began scanning the yard as the other dropped his guard when he realized it was me.

“Someone come through here?”

“What?”

“Young. Brown jeans. Striped shirt.”

I shook my head and glanced around the yard.

“Ma'am, I think you should get inside.”

“Is he dangerous?”

“Ma'am.”

“O-okay. I'm going.”

I moved towards the side door and held the doorknob. The cop stared at me in a rush and I twisted the doorknob and rushed into the door. He looked around before he rushed to the fence to get to the next yard to catch up with the other cop who didn't waste time standing here. I watched him hop over the fence and race across the yard. When he disappeared, I cracked the door open and peeked out to scope out the scene. I quickly pushed it open and Bo dashed from behind the untamed bushes and dived for the doorway. He collided with me and we crashed to the floor and froze in place as the door slammed shut. I lifted my head to look upside his face as his eyes remained glued to the door. I looked over at the door then chuckled as I dropped my head to the floor.

“So... it wasn't your car.” I put emphasis on the word wasn't before chuckling more when he looked down at me. He rolled his eyes before rolling off of me and laying next to me. We looked over at each other then burst out in laughter. I sat up and reached up to lock the door.

“Am I dangerous?”

I laughed at him referring to my question to the cop.

“Hell, I don't know your ass.”

“Interesting. Anyone at home?”

“No.”

“Interesting.”

I turned to follow his voice that was no longer coming from the floor but by the door that led out of the garage.

“Hey.” I called out to him as he disappeared into the house. I rushed across the garage that was the neglected part of the house. I pulled the door up behind me and frowned at the empty hall. Bo stepped out into the hall looking for his next doorway.

“Boy.”

I pushed away from the door and sped down the hall to catch up with him as he walked into another door. I bumped into him and bounced off of his body. He shook his head and pointed his thumb over his shoulder.

“Whoever room that is, is a slob.”

He laughed as he backed me up into the hallway and nonchalantly continued nosing around my house.

“You know, you get comfortable really fucking quick.”

“You know, you have a real potty mouth.”

My heart damn near came up my throat as he turned into my bedroom. I rushed behind him and damn near stepped over his heels as I raced into the room to push around him. He chuckled as I rushed to my chest and pushed my underwear drawer closed and dashed over to my bed to fix up my spread. I turned to see him step into my closet.

“Hey!”

I rushed over to my closet and grabbed his arm as he reached to touch my clothes. I yanked him out and leaned against my door as I closed it.

“Yo, I expected you to be more of a material girl. I don't know. Kind of a spoiled brat with too much shit that you don't need.”

I turned around embarrassed at my bare room and still not over the fact that he saw my wardrobe that wasn't much at all.

“I guess it's because of your attitude.”

“Well maybe you shouldn't be too quick to judge someone! I'm glad you see the truth now. I can barely get shit that I do need!” I spoke out of anger that bloomed from my embarrassment as I snatched my binder out of his hand and placed it back where he picked it up from.

“Sorry.”

“You should leave now.”

“I really am sor-”

“Leave!”

I looked away from his face that showed that he was genuine. That apologetic look rubbed me the wrong way. He wasn't sorry for crossing the line. He pitied me. I don't need anyone's fucking pity. He lifted his arm and I snatched away and looked at him crazy.

“I thought we were friends?”

“I don't have friends. I don't have anyone.”

“I used to think that... up until a few days ago. Guess we got each other now. Huh, Sour Patch?”

I snatched my bedspread over my binder before looking at him again. He just stood there leaning against the door like I didn't tell him to get the fuck out.

“Are you fucking deaf all of a sudden?! Get out!”

I stormed across the room but before I could make it to the door, he had turned and walked off. I turned the corner and saw him standing in the living room window looking out.

“Get out. I don't give a fuck if they catch you. I hope they do. Sit in a fucking cell on a hard mattress and freeze when the cold bounces off of the floor and the walls.”

I snatched open the front door and pointed out his path to follow. He shook his head and walked out of the door. He went to turn around but I slammed the door before he could fix his mouth to say anything.

–

Why do you fight everything, Tasha?

Chapter 5

“Nigga, come on.”

I spoke impatiently while staring out of the window.

“Chill out.”

I whipped my head around to stare at Kenny.

“You chill out. Your boy need to come the fuck on. You need to get rid of this car.”

I shifted around in the hot car that could be reported stolen already and here we were still sitting in it. I snapped my neck down to look at Chante's arm that I bumped. For a second, I thought she moved. Wishful thinking. I huffed as I looked up at the motel office to see the scrawny white boy walk out with his hands in his pockets. Swear they don't know how to keep up with this life. Why are we taking our damn time in a situation like this.

“Yo, you good?”

Kenny leaned his head out of the window and nodded at the boy who nodded in return to Kenny's question. He walked up to the car and held the key out.

“You got 23.”

“Aight, bet. Good looking. I'ma take care of you, man.”

“You got something to eat?”

“Here, man. I'ma feed you for the whole week. You good with me.”

Kenny took the key he was holding out and handed it over to me before reaching in his pocket. He pulled out a roll of money and peeled off a few bills.

“Go sit down and enjoy your meal, man. Don't rush it.”

“I'll just grab something quick. I gotta make my way over to get a spot.”

I rolled my eyes not believing that these niggas were seriously holding a conversation at this very moment. I twisted my body and leaned against the door to show my impatience but neither paid me mind as Kenny spoke up again.

“Nah, man. I tell you what. When you finish up, come back here and holla at me. Get you a spot here. Leave that shelter alone for a few days.”

“I uh- thanks.”

“No problem. You look out for me and I'ma look out for you. Keep your head up out here.”

“She gonna be alright?”

He nodded his head in Chante's direction. Kenny looked back and like it all dawned on him as his memory flooded back into his mind, he quickly shook his head.

“Yeah, she'll be good. We're trying to help her escape trouble. You know how it is.”

I watched ole boy's face mirror concern and understanding.

“So just come to your room or meet you by your car?”

“Aw, nah. This isn't my shit. I'ma return it and be back. Just uh-” He looked over at me really quick and before I could object, he turned his attention back to him. “Knock on the door. She'll be looking out for you.”

“Alright. Thanks again.” He leaned down to get a better view of me. “Thank you ma'am.”

Before I could react, he was walking away from the car and Kenny was pulling down to the other end of the parking lot. He parked the car in front of 13 and 14, taking up both spaces. I leaned forward to look at the door. He tilted his head and looked up. I shook my head.

“Really? Upstairs?”

“At least we can see what the fuck is going on from a view.”

“Whatever. Just come on so you can ditch this car before the cops make this shit their business. You've wasted enough time.”

I pushed the door open and gave him little room to react to my comment. I looked across the parking lot to see white boy walking further away from the motel.

“You ain't gotta worry bout him. He good people. Not too many trustworthy motherfuckers walking this earth, but he ain't never been foul.”

“Never is a serious ass word.”

“May be hard to believe, I know but when a motherfucker show you what he about, give him his prop. He's real. Just caught up in the wrong part of the world.”

I looked back to see him tugging Chante out of the car. I lifted an eyebrow and right on cue, he slowed his pace to move more gentle with her. I jogged around the car and got the door as he headed for the steps. I looked around to scope out our surroundings. Glancing over the car, I swiftly brushed pass him to get ahead of him and unlock the door.

“Don't forget to wipe down.”

“You think I'm stupid? I know our prints on it.”

I closed the door and watched him go to lay her across the bed.

“Hold on!”

He paused and looked at me crazy because I caught him off guard. I moved across the room and went into the bathroom. I looked over the condition of the bathroom while snatching up the towels.

“I know you're not having no trouble holding her. Surely you not that weak.”

“Nah, she's just laying a little funny if you haven't noticed her state. Her heads falling back awkward. I'm just trying to get her right.”

I sat the towels on the end of the bed and tossed them across the bed one by one. I caught Kenny staring at me with a facial expression that wasn't hard to read at all. He wanted to know what the fuck was I doing.

“Ain't shit ever clean in motels but the damn towels.”

I moved so he could put Chante down. He grunted when I leaned forward to quickly knock over the edge of one of the towels that was folded back. He looked at me as if he was waiting for permission. I nodded at the bed and moved further back out of the way. He laid her body across the towels and held her head up as I stepped back up to move the towels over the pillow.

“You know you coulda let ole boy take the car.”

“So he can take the fall if he get caught up? Nah.”

“And if you get caught up?”

“Then that's on me. That's nothing to do with man.”

“That's your favorite word ain't it?”

I questioned while walking around the motel room getting a feel for it so I could make a decision on whether or not we would be here tonight or move because I know damn well Chante would have to spend a couple of days with me til I can think this shit over. Damn myself for jumping right into this shit with no plan. I looked back to see a quizzed look on his face.

“You keep saying man. You know like that bad ass chile that always let aw man slip out of his damn mouth?”

“Not man. Man.”

“Excuse me for missing the difference.”

I made my way into the bathroom to check under the sink.

“Man. Like a name.”

I made my way out of the bathroom to find him lingering around the second bed while playing with his pockets. I made a mental note to address some things but that would have to wait til later.

“He's been through some shit. Used to be on drugs but he shook it. Lot of people treat him like he ain't shit because he had an addiction. Talking to him stupid and treating him like he a lil boy or some shit. I call him Man. Remind him that he a grown ass man and deserve respect just as much as the next nigga.”

Suddenly I was more intrigued by this guy's mindset. I guess this is what Bo knew about when he was tryna lay out his background for me without saying too much because he was a firm believer in your business is only for you to tell and you only. His phone rung, catching his attention. He looked over it like he didn't want to accept the call. He hit silence and put the phone in his pocket.

“Aight, I see where you going. Give me a number before you leave. You gon have to stop and get some shit to bring back. Matter fact, I'ma give you my number and you just hit me before you make a new move.”

Taking the cue, he reached back into his pocket to pull out the phone. He held it up and looked up at me waiting for me to call out the number. I snatched the phone and programmed it myself before pushing it up against his chest when it started ringing again just as I saved my number.

“You better answer it if Montey out here losing his mind right now and you know he is.”

“Nah, this ain't him.”

He looked unsure about answering the call that wasn't the same number as the number I saw as a missed call when I went to program my number. Matter of fact, they had two different area codes. Mental note.

“Let me get this hot ass car off my hands.”

“How long you gon be? Estimated time.”

I put the stopper in the sink and turned the water on before dumping soap in it.

“You need me to rush?”

He asked sarcastically while reaching for the doorknob.

“As a matter of fact I do. They ain't got no cleaning supplies in here and I need to sterilize this room if I'ma be sitting in this bitch.”

He looked back as if he was expecting a smile to be on my face like I was joking. He paused and nodded when he took notice of my serious expression.

“No more than an hour.”

“What if Montey call you to be on door duty again?”

I chuckled not able to hold it in.

“He don't send me invitations for shit like that no more. I'm in the boat with you.”

He chuckled as my smirk faded.

“Keep an eye out for Man for me?”

I pulled out the face towels and placed them in the subbed hot water.

“Shit I guess. You told the nigga to come back.”

“Thanks.”

He yanked the door open and pointed at the lock before pulling it up behind him. I sighed while leaning over the tub to turn on the water and let it run while I made my way to the door. I locked it and moved over to the window. Watching Kenny climb into the car and drive off, I crossed my arms across my chest and diverted my attention to the other side. The numbers on the doors on the other side were visible but my mind was elsewhere causing the numbers to blur.

–

I can’t believe I sat in that house for hours and she didn’t come home. What a waste of my time. She better be here like James said she most likely would be if not at her house. I frowned at the thought of her laying up with his no good ass. That's what she chasing and leaving family behind for? Dumb ass couldn't even be the word to do justice hanging over her head. Her title goes deeper than that. She deserves struggle leaving me behind to not better herself, but to run behind him.

I walked passed two women in nearly nothing. I don’t know where they shop but they must get serious discounts for those too little shirts and incomplete ass skirts. They looked at me as if I was trespassing and needed to find my way and quick. Looking back at them for the last time I turned back forward and caught myself as I ran flat into Evonne. She turned around and cocked her head to the side and stared at me. Well I’d be damned. James should have given me a heads up or something.

"So... you are selling your body?" I asked possibly with too much amusement in my voice but I was simply astounded. In the blink of an eye I was pushed up against the wall with two fingers pointed in my face. All I could focus on was that cigarette being too damn close to my face.

"Who the hell are you talking to?"

Not giving me much time to answer she yelled it out like she was Queen Elizabeth and proud of it.

"Evonne! Evonne fucking Richardson. I’m not selling a damn thing. These suckers are paying to touch me."

My eyes still glued on the sight of the burning cigarette, I glanced over at her to see if she was done talking. Obviously not.

"What the hell you mean? Coming at me like I’m some random broad on the street. I'm your mama."

I looked at the cigarette just in time to see the ashes drop, landing on my chest. Her eyes followed the ashes and she laughed.

"Pretty girl not going to throw a fit because a few ashes touched her, is she? You are pretty. I make pretty ass babies, don’t you agree?"

Backing up, she smiled at a guy who was standing nearby but not close enough to have heard what was being said. She gestured for him to come over and like a trained pet that’s exactly what he did. The man smiled the ugliest smile I've ever seen. His appearance looked as if he was on the streets. With that thought in my mind, I pictured him hanging out in front of a corner store begging for change until he had enough to come around here and pay for a quick fuck. I shuddered at the thought and shook my head to get rid of the image.

"You two do group sessions?"

I choked off of the breath that seemed to come to a halt right in the middle of my throat. Evonne looked over at me and smiled while wrapping an arm around my waist.

"Look here trick, this here is my daughter. Hear me? My daughter."

I stared him down as if I could make him drop dead where he stood. I was ready for Evonne to tell him off and crush the bastard's sick dreams. Instead my eyes damn near popped out of my head as quick as her next words rolled off of her tongue.

"A treat like this could cost more than the usual. How much you got?"

I pushed Evonne away from me and didn’t know whether to keep my eyes on the sick bastard or the sick bitch.

"We don’t need her anyway, baby. I got the strength and skills of more than two women."

She grabbed the man's arm and pulled him along towards the door. I began to walk away slowly.

"Oh Evonne?"

She paused just before walking into the doorway.

"What?"

"Just because a mother gives life, it doesn't make her a mama."

I turned and ran across the street. I could feel her eyes burning me. I peeked over my shoulder and sure enough she was looking. The guy must have been impatient because he walked around her and on into the house. A little afraid, I was relieved when she followed him in the house and the door shut. Shaking my head I chuckled to myself thinking back on what she said. Don't sell, they pay. It takes a whore to say some dumb shit like that. Suddenly I no longer gave a damn about the whys and how could yous. I didn't give a fuck about answers to questions I've been haunted by all of my life. I no longer cared to fill that gap she left when she abandoned me. Looking at her tonight, hell I was grateful for our split.

Picking up the pay phone, I dropped a quarter in and dialed the number that was beyond familiar to my mind. The phone rang, no one answered. Damn it! Bo ass never answer unknown numbers! I slammed the phone back down on the hook and stormed away. Where in the hell did I leave my cell phone?! The only time that I really need it and I can’t find it. Rushing into the car, I locked the doors and checked my surroundings before taking off in full speed across the parking lot. I have to get out of here as quick as possible. Coming to an abrupt stop, I slammed my foot on the brakes and looked back at the door she had been disappeared into one last time. I blinked when a car drove into the parking lot with its high beams blinding me. Fighting to keep my eyes open, I stared right through the light and at that door. I tilted my head to the side and tried to focus in on the number on the door.

–

I held my head upright and looked away from the door to the car pulling in the parking lot. It drove up to the motel office and a guy hopped out of the driver's side. He walked into the office and shortly after, a younger guy who he shared a resemblance with took his place in the car. Hmm? Brothers maybe? Cousins? Family owned business? Sounds nice. Maybe I should sit the fuck down and start a business. Keep my ass out of trouble. Always caught up in some shit for no good reason. Good reason. Good reason? I looked back toward the bed to look over Chante.

“Are you going to make me feel alone?”

I chewed on my inner jaw while waiting for some type of respond.

“You know I don't think anyone will suspect that you're with me. Not Montey. He knows what I'm capable of and til this very day, many years later, he still underestimates me. Not Rodney. He has no idea of who I am. He's kinda cute. Not even cute. Handsome ass man.”

I made my way across the room while carrying on a one way conversation.

“Well you know what? Bo, on the other hand, might be fuming at me at this very moment. He's the only person who actually knows me. Thing is even though he knows me, he doesn't always know where I'm at in life. In my heart. In my mind. My state, you know? He doesn't know if I'm up to bad or good on any given day. Hell, even I don't know that. Was is it about you, Killa Te? There's something about you...but what?”

I sat beside her and placed my hand on her face then held her head in place to stare her down. I felt around her face before moving to her neck.

“What's going on with you now?”

I moved my hands down to her arms to see if any other part of her body was as warm as her face. Her skin felt clammy.

“You weren't like this earlier. You felt fine in the car.”

I stood up holding my hands over her while thinking.

“Um...okay!”

I sat back down and pulled her body up. Letting her fall into me, I felt around until my fingertips made contact with her skin. Feeling around for the opening of her gown, I pulled it open and held her back with one hand while struggling to get it off her left arm. I sighed and laid her back down before pulling the gown off much easier. I paused to check if she had any undergarments on before removing it completely.

“Let me get these socks off of you. They look hot as fuck.”

I snatched the socks off and moved her legs back into a comfortable position.

“Fuck. I think I messed up all the towels trying to clean this bathroom. Better be extra towels in here.”

I snatched the cabinet open and grabbed the only two face towels left. Staring at the sink full of water, I shook my head. I moved over to the tub and turned on the cold water. Placing the towels underneath, I shuddered at the cold water splashing off of my hands and up my arms. Rushing back into the room, I made my way around the bed. I placed one towel on her chest and ran the other along her neck and face.

“What's got you sweating girl?”

I looked around the room in confusion while taking note of our environment for the first time. The temperature is fine. What the fuck is going on? A knock at the door came so random that I half expected to see Chante jump out of surprise. I power walked over to the window and peeped out. I quickly made my way to the door and snatched it open.

“You aren't quite the obedient one, are you?”

I looked over the pizza box in Man's hand. He shrugged.

“I know what it feels like to be down. I chose to spend smart. This way I have something to eat later too. Kenny?”

“Not back yet.” I stepped forward to peek out of the door. He moved back out of my way and looked off.

“Sorry. I'll just try-”

“Come on in.”

He looked questionable.

“He said you're good people. You're his people. So come on in.”

I motioned for him to quickly move and he scurried pass me. I closed the door and locked up. I quickly walked around him and went to the bed to pull part of one of the towels over Chante's body without covering her too much. I picked up the towel on her chest and went to run more cool water over it. When I returned, I glanced at Man standing.

“Take a seat.”

He nodded and sat at the small table for two. He pulled open the box and looked my way as I walked pass. I saw that two slices were missing. I glanced back again while placing the towel on her chest. I shook my head no when I realized his gesture. He closed the box and avoided looking Chante's way.

“She okay?”

“Yeah.”

I glanced back and saw that he had turned to the table right and was facing away from Chante.

“What's your name?”

“Man.”

I watched him squirm to keep his focus in the opposite direction while giving me a short answer. I pulled the towel back off of her to keep her exposed and cool.

“That's the name Kenny gave you.”

“That's the only name that I have. Nobody calling out to me.”

“What's the name that your parents gave you?”

“Troy.”

“Just Troy?”

“Yes ma'am.”

I made my way over to the table and he was still holding his head down. I smirked at how he was being a gentleman in the situation and automatically thought back on when he called me ma'am.

“How old are you Troy?”

“27.”

“And how old do you think I am, Troy?”

We met eyes and I chuckled.

“Stop calling me ma'am.”

“Didn't mean to offend you.”

“You didn't. Just ease up, okay? Tensed niggas tend to make me edgy.”

He laughed and I assumed it was because of my choice of words.

“So what kind of trouble were you into?”

He went quiet and shrugged.

“Kenny help you out?”

“With support I guess. I'm a junkie. Let it take over my life and lost everything. So young. So stupid.”

“I thought you shook it? Kenny said you shook trouble.”

“Once a junkie, always a junkie. That's how some people think anyway.”

“Would I offend you if I admit to being one of those people?”

“Tasha? Is what Kenny said?”

“Yeah, that's me.”

I slid his box of pizza around and opened it to go for a slice.

“Well Tasha, when there's so many people like that, sooner or later you stop taking offense.”

I looked over the toppings after taking a bite.

“So why do you still refer to yourself as a junkie? I find that interesting.”

“Well that's how people will treat a junkie, right? No matter if you drop the drugs, they still believe you are still that abuser. Don't trust you. Think you want to steal. Think you mean no good.”

“How you making it in these streets? Job?”

“Who will trust me enough to employ me? I either have to be close to a foundation or cash. I'm a junkie remember. Kenny's a good guy. Best thing he ever did for me was deny me drugs whenever I was at a breaking point ready to relapse. One time, he dragged me out of a spot. I got the scar.”

He sat back in the chair and pulled up his shirt to reveal a healed slash across his side. He quickly put his shirt back down.

“Sorry.”

“It wasn't inappropriate. Don't apologize. Let me see it.”

He pulled the shirt back up and I took another bite of the pizza before leaning across the table to peer at the scar.

“I tried to fight him off and scraped against the curb. Kind of glad I got this mark. Sorta reminds me that I'm not a nobody. You know? I mean... well it's stupid but I just... It's a mark I got from somebody caring enough when I have nobody in this world. One person gave a damn even when I didn't.”

He let his shirt fall down and sat back up to the table, resting his arms. I took in his words as if they were my own. They were. My words, his mouth. Bo crossed my mind and I listened to him continue while I finished off the slice.

“He looks out for me when he sees me. He's young and runs with the wrong people. He's judged by that. People think he's some hard headed cold hearted killer or something. He's a good boy. Just caught in a bad lifestyle.”

“I like your mind, Casper.”

“Casper?”

“Nobody sees you, right? You're a nobody.”

I got up to go over to my jacket that was tossed on the nightstand when I first entered the room. I pulled out the phone that was vibrating and looked at the screen.

“What's up, Kenny?”

“What?”

“What?”

“How you know it's me? You got my number?”

“Nah. How long you gonna be?”

“I dropped it off somewhere close by them. Cleaned it up. Got a new ride and I'm heading back your way. What cleaning shit you need?”

“Don't worry about it. I'll handle it. Just watch yourself on your way.”

“At all times.”

I hung up without a farewell and walked over to the table. I reached in my inside pockets and pulled out my clip. I counted off the bills and calculated a little over $300 before handing $150 to Casper. He looked confused and alarmed at the same time.

“I need you to do something for me. I need some stuff from the store.”

He hesitantly took the money and looked over it.

“You're giving me your money? You trust that?”

“Once a junkie, always a junkie. Can't be trusted. Prove me wrong.”

We held eye contact and after a few awkward seconds he nodded in agreement.

“What do you need?”

“I'ma make a list in this phone. I want you to take it with you.”

“You need your phone, right?”

“Don't worry about that. Plus you'll return, right?”

–

“What's going on in here?”

Kenny pushed the door closed and felt around for the lock. He turned and locked the door then walked further into the room.

“I don't know. It's like she was running some kind of fever for a minute.”

“Don't she need all that hospital shit?”

He bypassed the bed to avoid standing over Chante while I moved around him with her hospital gown.

“She don't need that shit.”

“You got medical experience?”

“And I don't need that shit. Here. Help me.”

I sat next to her and lifted her up. He rushed by my side and placed his hand on her back. I slowly pushed her back into his arms and eased her gown over her arms. He shifted out of the way when I stood to pull the gown around her.

“Man been back?”

“He's running an errand. He'll be back soon.”

“Errand?”

“He's good people. He's sticking around.”

“What?”

“He said you look out for him? So he stays close right?”

“I run into him from time to time. Make sure he's straight.”

“Well nothing's changing. Like I said he'll be back soon.”

I stepped back and watched him lay Chante back in the bed.

“So... you looking for that escape or not?”

I placed my hands on my hips and stared at him. He looked dumbfounded.

“Let's just be real here. Yes or no?”

“I'm not trying to be stuck in this lifestyle.”

“So we're looking for escapes, yeah?”

He licked his lips while nodding.

“I'ma give you a few tips. You got small things against you that can be avoided.”

He folded his arms and stared at me as I took a seat at the table.

“You should really stop carrying cash like that on you. That's too much. If a cop stop you, that stack in your pocket is a red flag. Makes them keep their eyes on you and start watching you. Break it down. Carry what you need including emergency funds and put the rest on cards. Play it smart.”

He darted his eyes around, taking in what I was saying. I paused to see how he would react. He didn't seem like a nigga who thought he knew it all and nobody could tell them shit. I scooted the pizza box to the side while he took a seat across from me.

“How you know my number?”

I laughed at how he jumped right back into this.

“I like to keep up with people but I don't like people keeping up with me.”

I chuckled at how he called me from a different number not long after I answered his first call. He was really testing shit out and was twice as surprised at how I answered the phone addressing him right away the second time the same as I did the first.

“You're the only one who got that number. Any call coming in, I know it's only one person and that's you. I know who's behind that incoming call and I'd like to keep it that way.”

I paused to look up with a serious expression on my face. We exchanged a silent agreement and I went to finish up what I was saying.

“You looked stressed when those calls were coming in today. Never throw out the same number as both personal and business. Hell, never put all your business on one line either. I've got three lines right now. Even so I still don't fuck with many people. You wanna get in contact with me, contact someone who can get a hold of me.”

“Sounds like it can be useful.”

I went to speak on another tip when a knock snatched both of our attention and we looked over at the door. Kenny looked my way then got up and walked up to the door. He peeped out of the peep hole before unlocking it and opening it up.

“Damn Casper. You get right to it and complete the task in no time.”

“Mission accomplished.”

He walked across the room and sat the bags on the table. I stood to help him with the stuff that he was holding under his arm.

“You got it all?”

“It's what's on your list.”

Kenny walked over observing.

“You didn't have trouble carrying all this?”

“I'm used to keeping up with everything. When you're on the go every minute of every day, everything stays close.”

I looked through the bags for the cleaning supplies and looked up to see him pulling money out of his pocket.

“I got some coupons out of the store and used the ad to find the sales. I saved and got more of your change than calculated.”

He held it out to me and I tilted my head to the side.

“Well I'll be damned, Casper. Proven wrong.”

“Casper?” Kenny spoke up in a tone that was probably meant to remind us of his presence.

“She nicknamed me.”

He shrugged like it was nothing.

“You get your room yet, Man?”

“No. I came straight over here.”

“Let's go handle this.”

“When you guys handle that, can you help me clean this motherfucking room because I can't lay down without getting this shit straight.”

“What you need?”

“I just need to be in a clean environment. I don't really feel comfortable in this cheap shit but it's the last place someone will look for me and that's for damn sure.”

I pulled the sheet sets out of one of the bags and sat them down before picking up the bag of cleaning supplies.

“Tomorrow, we can talk?”

“Yeah.”

Kenny answered while looking around like he didn't know where to start.

“Can I do anything?”

“I really like him.” I pointed at Casper while speaking to Kenny. I patted Casper on the chest. “Why don't you take down the bathroom for me?”

I handed him the clorox and grabbed the bag of towels.

“Sit these in there when you're done.”

“So we're waiting on buying this room or what?”

I thought for a second on Kenny's question.

“You know what? You can just go ahead and handle that and by the time you get back, I will have stripped that bed down and sprayed it down. Then you can move her in that bed for me. From then on, I can just work around her.”

“Alright. I guess we are making ourselves at home.”

“Something tells me we should sit down like it is home for a couple of days til we get this shit figured out.”

“Funny how this shit is on some we shit.”

“We are one. Get used to it, buddy. We are the three amigos. Learn to love it.”