#chrita

Rita

Waking up for the funeral was the hardest thing that I ever had to do. For the past week, I had been walking around like a zombie. How could she be gone? We were just with her. I had spent so much time trying to figure out my love life, I didn’t realize that I had been neglecting my best friend. Crazy thing is, I think I’m all cried out. I can’t let out any more tears at this point, and believe me I’ve tried.

“Rita, are you okay?” Lauren pops her head into the bathroom of the church. Her eyes are puffy, and her nose as red and my eyes. “Your mom was looking for you.”

I push my hair behind my ear. “I’m just taking a breather. I needed to get away, you know.”

“I understand”, she says shutting the door behind her, “I just can’t believe she’s gone.”

Before I can reply, there is a knock at the door. My mom pops her head into the bathroom, with my nephew in her arms. Her face is red, and she has tears in her eyes. “Are you two okay? The eulogies are going on right now, and I thought you would like to say something.”

I nod, “We’re coming mom.” I give Lauren a look, and she grabs a hold of my hand. We walk out of the bathroom, heading into the plush layout of my best friend’s funeral. I will never get used to saying something like that. Everything is trimmed in pink or white, with an accent of silver. There are pictures of her all over the church, and a beautiful pink casket containing her body. She looks so beautiful. It always looks as if she is sleeping. Her hair is cascading around her, like a sea of locks, her glossy pink lips are full and shimmery, and her cheeks are as rosy as a summer morning. She looks so peaceful. I miss her so much.

“Rita!” I turn to see Mijo calling my name. “Come here girl!” He smiles pulling me into a hug. He holds me tight kissing the top of my head.

“How are you holding up?” I ask as we pull away from the hug. “Your eyes are bloodshot red.”

He shakes his head. “As good as any of us can. Robb had to step out for a while, he’s not handling this too well.”

“And Chris?” I ask with raised brows.

Mijo looks around. “I saw him getting dressed, but I don’t know where he’s at. You know he hates funerals, so he might be outside. Me and Keeis just been back here giving the family some space.”

I give Keeis a smile, and he does the same. I say my goodbye’s and head up to the front with my mom, sister, and the family. I slide into the pew and then Lauren. We sit and watch as the family says a few words about my best friend who is now gone.

 Chris

I sit in the very back, and avoid everyone. Funerals really make me uncomfortable. I see Rita up front, and she looks just as beautiful as ever. I would go up there, but I would just be in the way.

“Hello, are you a friend of the family?” an older lady says, taping me on the shoulder. “I’ve watched you looking at that group of youngsters this whole time.”

I nod, “Yes ma’am, I was very close with Sevyn.”

“Then why are you back here? Go up front with the family, I know they would love to see you.” She touches my cheek. “I know funerals are hard, but remember this is a time when those people up front need you the most. This is the last time you will see her. Go ahead and say goodbye.”

I smile at her standing. She gives me a hug, and sends me off on my way. I walk down the aisle, and the sight of Sevyn’s casket is closer and closer. I look from my left to right, as friends and family greet me, sending encouraging words my way. I pass Rita’s row, and can feel her eyes on me the entire time. I’m about 5 feet away from Sevyn, and it’s like something stops me. I can’t continue. I see her face, and she looks so…. alive. I’ve seen her sleep, and she looks the exact same way. She can’t be gone! She was so young. The guilty feeling in the pit of my stomach starts to boil. Did my uncle really do this?

I feel a hand grip my shoulder. “You can do this…” I look over to see my cousins and best friend.

“It’s gone be alright.” Mijo says to my left

“Let’s go say goodbye to our angel.” Keeis says leading the way.

I can’t take my eyes off of her, the closer we get. She looks just as beautiful as she always has. This girl hated me for a while, but she really did love Rita like a sister. She always wanted the best for her. I always appreciated that.

“Fuck man, why you have to take her.” Robb sighs, kissing her forehead. “Why can’t I just have her back?”

Keeis pulls him into the tightest hug. “It’s gone be okay big bruh, she in a better place now, away from this fucked up world.”

I step around them, and lean into the casket. “Hey beautiful...” I kiss her cheek, and I swear I see a smirk on her face. “How could anyone do this to you?” I ask as the tears fall from my eyes. “I will kill him for hurting you. I promise…”

 Lauren

Rita and I both tear up looking at the guys, and more so Chris, interact with Sevyn. We knew they had a rocky relationship, but underneath, we all knew they cared for one another. Seeing them break down caused Rita and I to do the same. “I need to excuse myself.” Rita says trying to stand. I’m on the verge of joining her until…

BOOM! (doors busting opening)

In walks Michael looking tore up. He’s in Nike sweats, he’s sobbing uncontrollably, and his “friends” are trying to hold him back. Everyone in the church is now looking his way as he comes down the aisle.

I make a disgusted face. “Oh no the hell he’s not pulling this shit!”

“Why!” he screams. “Sevyn!”

Her parents stand, tears streaming from their eyes. “It’s alright Michael, let it out.” Ms. Streeter speaks with open arms. “I know it hurts.” “I should have saved her! I took my time, and this is my fault. I know people who could have searched longer hours, and in more places.” He wails.

Rita’s face is filled with disgust. “I can’t believe he’s doing this?”

“He’s a monster…”  I say breathlessly as everyone coos over his “breakdown”. Sevyn’s mother holds him close to his chest as he stands at the front of the church, blaming himself for not “protecting her” when she went missing.

Her parents walk him to the podium, overlooking her body. He looks down upon her and tears stream from his face. He grabs the mic, and no one in the crew can believe the words coming from his mouth.

“I can’t believe she’s gone. I remember the days when… I know I hurt you Sevyn, but I always promised to protect you from this cruel world. I will make sure Trey pays for this shit! I will make sure he never sees the day of light again.” He wipes his sleeve over his face. “Look at all of your family and friends…” He stares Rita and I in the face with brows furrowed. “Justice has been served… I promise you that…”

“You evil bitch!” Rita stands looking him in the eye.

“Rita!” Mama E says trying to grab her arm, but she pulls away.

I follow in tow, shaking my head. “You sick, sick person...” I run after Rita, but she is walking too fast. “Rita, wait up…” I yell pushing open the large church doors.

She covers her face with her hands, pushing her hair out of her face. “Did you see that shit? He just made a funeral a complete joke!”

“It’s not right… He can’t do that, can he? Can he hurt Trey?” I ask completely confused about what just happened.

We see the guys walking out of the church. “Now some shit even I can’t stomach.” Mijo says taking off his suit jacket.

“I had to get out of there…” Robb says wiping his eyes. “I refuse to watch him make a joke out of her funeral. That shit ain’t right.” He says pulling out a blunt and lighting it.

I make a face. “At church?”

“God created the herb…” Keeis says taking the blunt from Robb

I look over at Chris who is getting into his truck. “Where are you going?”

He shakes his head. “Unk on some foul shit, and I can’t let it go down like this.”

“Chris, what are you saying?” I ask

He lets out a deep sigh, dropping his head. “I think Unk killed Sevyn...”

“Nah man, he wouldn’t do that shit! He’s crazy, but he wouldn’t kill nobody for nothing. Acting an ass to get attention, yes, but not killing her.” Robb says raising his voice. “You need to check your facts before spitting shit like that out to everybody.” He walks off, with Keeis following him.

He lets out a sigh cranking up his car. “Well I’ll see y’all later.”

“Wait!” I yell, knocking on his window. “I don’t think Trey should be in jail either. I know your uncle had something to do with this! We’re going with you.” He opens the door, and I look to Rita who is looking the other way. “You’re not coming?” I ask and she still doesn’t look our way.

She shakes her head. “No… I just want to go home.” She says walking away without making eye contact with me.

Chris hops on the road, and doesn’t speak for a while. I look at him, and he looks just as tore up as she does.

“What was that Chris? What’s going on with you two?” I ask  

He shakes his head and tears pour from his eyes. “I fucked up Lo, like really fucked up.”

I touch his shoulder. “I can’t be that bad, just talk to me.”

He takes a deep breath, and speaks softly. “Rita caught me having sex with Heather and India, and honestly, I think… I think I kind of want India … But I still love Rita… We just been spending so much time together, and I don’t know what I want anymore…”

I sit there with my mouth completely open. “Chris… You really did fuck up…”

 Chris

Text to India:

Hey, I really don’t know what to say. I have been feeling like shit since the moment I left things the way that I did. I didn’t mean to kick you out, and I didn’t want you to feel like just a random fuck. I care about you and your feelings. I would never do anything to hurt you. Please just talk to me. Something between us just felt…Perfect! Like we knew exactly what the other wanted and liked. Can you come by sometime today and just talk to me? I need you to just hear me out. I love you…

Rita

It had been five days since the search for Sevyn, and it seems as if the days were going in slow motion. One minute we think we’ve gotten close to finding her or being on a trail to where she may be, and the next we realize we are further than we were before.

“How are you feeling baby?” Michael asks touching my back

I shrug sitting on the edge of the bed. “Not sure…”

“Rita, you need to get some sleep. You haven’t slept for longer than an hour all this week.” He says sitting up in bed next to me

I sigh. “How am I supposed to sleep Michael? My friend is out there missing, and I don’t know what her condition is. She could be hurt, hungry, and even worst dead!” I raise my voice, and it instantly cracks. I can feel the tears straining to come out. I cry every hour on the hour, and every time Michael has been there to wipe them away.

“Baby…” He says pulling me to his chest. “I will find her, I promise. I hate seeing you broken like this.”

I shake my head. “No, I have a gut feeling, and I’m never wrong. She’s not okay, and I think Michael has something to do with her disappearing. You work for him baby. If you know something, you need to tell me.” I say sternly, turning to him. “If I find out you knew anything and didn’t tell me, I would personally kill you. I’d kill you and wouldn’t regret anything.”

He looks at me and back down to his hands.  He grabs my hand, “Rita…..” His grip is now tighter, and he’s locking fingers with me. “I didn’t want to tell you or worry you, but Mike did tell me to find Sevyn and bring her to him the day before she went missing.”

“Michael, how could you!” I cover my face with my hands and the tears pour out. I get up from bed, and run to my bathroom locking the door behind me.

He’s right behind me, but I lock the door just in time. “Baby!” He says knocking on the door. “Rita, I promise I didn’t! I told him about us, and told him I didn’t want shit to do with that. I didn’t even work with him that day; I went to Canyon Run, baby I promise!”

I press my hands on the counter, looking into the mirror. It would be my worst nightmare to find out the bastard who has her is the one who is “looking” for her. If he did this, I promise I will be the reason he takes his last breath. I let out a deep sigh, unlocking the door. “I need to ask you something, and you better not fucking lie to me.

“I swear!” He says with his hands up. “You see how I am about you! I’m dead serious about us and what we have.”

I look him in his eyes. “Do you think he had anything to do with this?” He doesn’t step into the bathroom and he never breaks his gaze. He drops his head, and I don’t need for him to say a word. I shake my head, and the cemented tears finally fall. “I knew it…” I say lowly

“Rita I didn’t want concern you, but I’ve been on him all week trying to find out anything. All the clues you have gotten about her came from me. Somehow when we get close on his trail, evidence gets deleted or just disappears.” He steps to me. “Baby, I’m trying! He will not get away with this.”

I hug him as tight as I can. “Michael is she okay? Just think to yourself, do you think she’s alive?” I ask finally pulling away

He kisses the top of my forehead. “I’ll find her baby; I don’t need you worrying about anything. I got you!” He holds me tight and I actually feel safe. He’s been nothing but amazing to me these last few days, and although he held important information from me, I do believe him.

Phone rings

We both jump as our phones begin to ring simultaneously in sync.

I look down at my phone, and my mom is calling. I quickly answer…

Rita: Hello?

Mama: Rita…baby…

She sniffles and my body stiffens…

Rita: Mom what’s wrong? Talk to me!

Mama: Rita, just get here now!

She hangs up, and I look over to Michael who is now getting dressed. I walk over to the drawer and grab a t-shirt and some shorts. “Who was that?” I ask in a panic

“My boss…” He says grabbing his gun, changing the clip. “Joe said something big just went down at the house, and I needed to be there ASAP!”

I walk over to him, grabbing his arm. “Baby, its 2am, what else did he say!”

He huffs. “Someone is getting arrested….”

15 minutes later

We finally make it to my mom and Michael’s house, and the entire yard is filled with people and police officers running around. Neither of us know how to handle the situation.

“Rita!” I hear a familiar voice call out, and we both turn to make eye contact with Lauren. She doesn’t sound like herself, and her behavior is just as strange as my mom’s on the phone.

I run over to her, hugging her tight. “What happened?” I ask, but she just pulls me into the crowd. We finally make it into the middle of the scene, and my mom’s face and eyes are red. She spots me, and quickly pulls me to her chest.

“Baby, I’m so sorry…” She speaks in a hoarse voice.  “They found her body Rita….” She speaks and I feel my body go numb. My legs feel like Jello, my mouth gets dry, and I can no long see.

“Hold her head up!” I can hear muffled screams, but I can’t move any parts of my body. “She’s still breathing, I think she just fainted.” He says cradling my body. “Baby, open your eyes, just follow my voice.

Chris

As soon as I pulled up to the house, I could tell the type of day it is going to be. My mama called me about 20 minutes ago telling me that I needed to hurry up and get to the house because they had found out some important information, but from the faces I saw in the front yard, the news couldn’t be too good. As soon as I parked, I saw my cousin Keeis.

“Man what happened?” I ask getting out the car full of anxiety

He shakes his head, wiping his red eyes. “Not good man, not good at all.” He speaks and his voice begins to crack.

I look around in the crowd, and my mind is only on one person. “Where is she? Is Rita here? How is she?” I begin to quickly panic

He grabs my arm. “Chris, man she fainted and…..” He begins to speak, but nothing after that mattered. All I wanted at this point was to find her, and make it all better.

“Rita! Rita!” I scream pushing through the crowd. “Rita! Where is she!”

“Chris!” I hear a small voice call, and I turn to see Lauren. She looks broken. Her face is red, her nose is runny, and her voice is basically gone. I run over and squeeze her tight. Her small frame melts to my body, and I can tell she is crying again.

I will not let her go until she tells me to. “I’m sorry. I’m so so sorry.” I repeat to her, rubbing her back

“She’s gone Chris. She’s fucking gone. That was my sister Chris.” She cries into my shirt

I squeeze her tighter. “I know, Lauren.  She was like my sister and as hard as she was on me, I loved her for that.”

She pulls away, looking into my eyes. “She was pregnant by Michael, Chris. She told him that she got rid of it, and he got mad. Now she’s gone. Days later and she’s no long breathing, Chris.”

My face is blank. “…..Lo…” Is all I get out before….

“Chris, we need you in here!” My mom says grabbing my arm, pulling me into the house. I don’t know what is going on with anything right now, all I know is I can’t stop thinking about what Lauren just told me. Sevyn got an abortion with Unk’s baby? They were still messing around? What happened to him doing better for Mama E? Could he have done this shit? But he helped us look for her! What the hell is going on? Why didn’t he tell me this?

When we make it into the house, all eyes are on me. Rita is sitting on the couch in a daze, and that weak ass dude she’s talking to is trying to get her to respond.

“Chris!” Honey says running to me. I hug her, kissing the top of her head. “I can’t believe she’s gone. Rita fainted when mom told her the news, and when she came to, she wouldn’t respond to anyone or anything.

I look down at Honey. “Let me try…” I say letting her go. I walk over to the couch, and sit next to her. The guy that Rita talks to moves out of the way, but doesn’t take his eyes off of me for a second. Her face is pale, eyes bloodshot red, and her breathing is heavy. I know this feeling too well, because this was me when Ty took his life. “Rita…” I speak lowly, inching closer to her. “Rita, baby look at me…” I touch her hand, but she doesn’t budge. I move a small strand of hair out of her face and just talk to her as if she was paying attention. “Rita, I know I’m the last person you probably want in your face, but I refuse to leave your side right now. When Ty took his life you were right there for me, and I will do the same for you. Seeing you like this kills everything in me. Sevyn was my sister too. I remember when I first met her; it was at the benefit dinner. Not the best circumstances, but your girls always had your back when it came to anything. Sevyn would constantly get on my ass, telling me I wasn’t good enough for you.” I laugh as a tear falls from my eyes, onto my jeans. “She loved you Rita, and I can’t tell you not to be sad or to not hate the world right now, but I need you to just let me know how you feel. Say something to me.”

She grips my hand, but never turns to me. “I feel like a part of me just died.” A tear finally falls. “It’s like I can’t breathe because something heavy is lying across my chest.”

“That was your bestfriend Rita. Your sister, your homie for years now. I wish I could take this hurt from you, baby. My heart is shattered right now.” I speak and she instantly breaks down into my arms. I hold her body close to my chest, and I refuse to let go.

She pulls herself onto me. “I want her to come back!” She sobs “Chris, tell me I’m dreaming…”  

Mama E comes over, sitting next to us on the couch. She touches Rita’s back, and she flinches. “Mom don’t… Just don’t…” She says now standing, not letting go of my hand.

“Y’all!” Keeis says running into the living room out of breath. “Get outside right now! They got a suspect…”

Lauren

We all run outside, and stop when we see the blinding flashing lights. At least 6 police cars are scattered in the front of the house, and all you can hear is the chaos of 12 or more police officers running about trying to find information on Sevyn’s death.

“Who the fuck is he?!” Robb snaps out of nowhere. “Why would he fucking do this?!” His voice cracks and he throws his hands over his face. Auntie Christine grabs her son, and cradles his head.

I walk over to Rita, and she squeezes my hand. “I need to know….. I know Michael did this, and I need to know why…”  She says in a low tone

“Let’s go…” I say in a tone matching hers. We walk over to the first police car and it is empty. We do the same with the second and third police car, but they are empty as well. My heart starts beating quickly when I look up and see a head slumped over in the fourth cruiser in front of us. We both walk hand in hand, inching closer to the window, until we are face to face with whoever did this.

“No!” Rita screams, kicking the cop car. “This can’t be right!”

My heart instantly breaks seeing a beaten Trey lying in the back seat. His limp body is covered with his tattered clothes, and blood stains cover his shirt. “Trey….” I whisper, hoping he’s still alive

“Let him go, he didn’t do this!” Rita snaps, grabbing onto the cruiser door.

“STEP BACK!” an officer screams, touching his gun

Chris grabs the both of us. “What is wrong with you?  Why the fuck are you touching your gun?” He says stepping to the cop. “She just lost her best friend and you out here treating her like a suspect.”

The cop giggles stepping to Chris. “You might want to back the fuck up boy…”

“Boy?” Chris snaps getting in his face, and the cop pulls his gun all the way out, pointing it straight in his face.

He laughs. “Yeah, what now…BOY?!”

“Chris, no!” Rita screams trying to pull him back, but Chris doesn’t back down.

A car pulls up, and Michael quickly hops out of the car. “Hey! Get that fucking gun out of my nephews face. Put the fucking gun away! Did I tell you to come out here pulling guns on people? Fuck no! Get the fucking gun out of his face!” He snaps and the cop quickly puts his gun in the holster.

“I’m… I’m sorry; I didn’t know he was your nephew.” He stutters. “I’m so sorry sir…” Michael looks down at his hands as the rookie cop continues to apologize. Without notice, Michael pulls out his gun, pistol whipping the cop right in the face, knocking him out. We all jump back, gasping, in fear of what else could happen.

“When he wakes up, tell him he’s fired…” He says walking away as if nothing happened.

I hold on to Rita as tight as I can. “Come on, we need to find out what is going on. Something is definitely wrong with Michael…”

“Lo, Trey didn’t do this, Michael did!” She says looking at me with tears in her eyes. “He’s going to go to jail for life, and he had nothing to do with this.”

I close my eyes holding back tears. “I know… we have to do something!”

 Michael

I walk up to my office, and Joe is right on my heels.

“So what do you want us to do about the cops, family, and Trey’s body?” He asks looking through his phone

I shrug, sitting back in my chair. “Set up a dinner for the close family and friends. Make sure to invite the Streeter’s. Tell the cops to go back to the precinct; I’m sick of them blocking my driveway. And as for Trey, they already have the drugs in his system and shit planted at their apartment. It’s taken care of…”

Joe chuckles. “Michael, you sly dog. You always come out on top.” He says dapping me up

I smile. “Yeah, but we still have to deal with this Amber situation. She’s not backing down, I’m still losing money, and she is carrying my baby…”

“Who else is carrying your baby, Unk?” Chris says walking into my office

I make a face. “Boy, what I tell you about coming in my office without knocking?”

“Well you up here laughing and shit, and the rest of us are downstairs fucked up. Just thought I’d come up here and find something to make me smile too.” He says closing the door behind him

Joe stands. “I can go…”

“Naw, you stay!” Chris says pulling up a seat. “What are y’all up here talking about? I mean Unk, your wife and step daughters are down there broken! Rita passed out and everything. What is up here that is so important and keeps you away from your family?”

I sit up in my seat. “What is your actual issue, Chris?”

He smiles, looking from me to Joe. “Issue? Who, me? I’m just…. Trying to figure some shit out…” He says now standing. “If you need me, I’ll be downstairs comforting the love of my life. I’ll let everyone know you’re okay. I mean you deserve to relax, you did just crack a huge case against the one person who had no criminal history, supposedly never did drugs before since his mom died from them, and planned on marrying Sev in a few weeks, but hey, people snap. Sometimes you know people, but you really don’t know them. You know?” He says before walking to the door. “Glad we can finally sleep knowing a killer is off the streets.”

Door closes

“What was that?” Joe asks looking at me in confusion. “Do you think he knows?”

Honey

My nana ended up calling me eight times, telling me that my mom and Michael had gotten into a big fight. Keeis and I wrapped MJ up and headed right over.

“I tried to call Chris, he’s not answering.” Keeis says looking from his phone to the street

I shake my head. “And neither is Rita.”

Keeis grabs my hands, pulling it to his lips. “Chill, your grandma said she heard from her and so did Lauren.”

“But, I can’t help thinking about Sev. Rita does this hiding shit, not her.” I sigh deeply. I’ve been having a tight feeling in my stomach since they have been looking for her.

“She good baby, stop worrying.” He says pulling up to the house.

When we get out, my grandma is already at the door. “My babies!” She coos, pulling me into a tight hug. She throws her hands over her mouth, taking MJ from Keeis. “Look at my little munchkin.” She squeals kissing his cheeks.

“Don’t kill him with kisses nana.” I joke grabbing Keeis’ hand

“Oh no, you’re not getting him back.” She smiles leading us into the house. “How do you like being a dad?” She asks Keeis, and I turn to him quickly making a face

He kisses my grandma’s cheek. “Wouldn’t change it for the world, Ms. Lozada. Can’t wait to have another one.” He chuckles

We continue walking into the house, and I can’t get over how accepting Keeis has been over the last few months. He’s not only accepting my son as his own, but he accepts me and all the baggage I came with. Being with Keeis has made me want to do better. I don’t even look at other guys, because mine is perfect.

“You hear me Sonja?” My grandma says shaking my arm

I come back to reality. “What?”

She rolls her eyes. “I said your mom has locked herself in her room. It was a lot of arguing and then I heard a door slam. Michael was screaming at the door for a while, but then he left. Cursed at me when I asked if he was going to look for Sevyn.”

“Cursed at you?” I snap getting pissed off. My grandma upsets me sometimes, but I don’t want anyone cursing at her.

Keeis lets my hand go. “I can’t let him go around disrespecting your grandma or mom like that. Somebody needs to talk to him, and Chris not answering. Let me go find him.”

“Baby are you sure?” I quickly turn to him.

“Yeah baby, you just stay here. I’ll be back in less than an hour.” He says pecking my lips and then kissing MJ. He leaves, and my grandmother starts smiling at me.

I make a face since I can’t stop blushing. “What nana?”

“That boy loves you and his son.” She says poking me in my stomach. “All this crazy mess going on and he’s right by your side. Your mom doesn’t have such luck with men, but you have a good one.”

I grab her hand. “Grandma he’s great.”

Door opens

“Honey, can you come up here?” I hear a door open, but I don’t see my mom

My grandma hugs me. “I have the baby; you just go talk to your mom.”

I walk upstairs to her room, and she is sitting on the bed with her back turned. I come over to her side, and her face is covered, so I can’t tell if she’s crying or not. I grab at one of her hands, kneeling down to her. “Mom, what happened? What’s wrong?”

She moves both of her hands and my mouth is wide open. “He said it was an accident from all the stress he’s been dealing with.” She says quietly

“Mom you’re pregnant and this man his hitting on you!” I say now standing. “Where is he?!”

She shrugs. “I grabbed Princeton and locked myself in here.”

“Mom, you need to call the cops!” I snap

She shakes her head. “Honey he is the cops. All of his friends are cops. They are on his side. I don’t know what I’m going to do.”

“Mom, you can’t marry him.” I beg, hugging her

She shakes her head. “Honey, what is the use? He will forever be in my life; I have his child. And I do love him. What if it really was an accident? We have both been so stressed out, and I wasn’t making it any better. I pushed him, and my attitude has been so bad lately…”

I feel myself about to cry. “Do you hear yourself? You’re blaming yourself for him hitting you.”

“Honey, I don’t want to talk about it right now. I just don’t want Rita finding about this. Promise me you won’t tell her or your grandma what really happened. I told your grandma not to call you, but she was persistent and wanted to see you.” She says finger combing my hair.

“Well now I’m worried…” I say turning to her

She kisses my face. “You have nothing to worry about my love.”

“First and last time mom! He needs to get help now, before you even think about walking down the aisle with him. If he doesn’t, I’m telling grandma, Rita, and uncle Robby.” I say with a serious face. “I will kill him.”

“I promise…” She says in a soft voice. I squeeze my mom tight, and she does the same. I miss being with her like this. I refuse to let her marry Michael. I have to get rid of him… But how…

India

I packed all of my things, and quickly left Chris’ house. In the end I had to drag all of my bags to the curb, wait on an Uber, and find a nearby hotel to stay in for the next two days. I refuse to stay with Mijo and Cassie, but I didn’t bring a lot of cash with me. “Fuck!” I curse to myself, pulling my bags out of the door.

“You alright?” Heather asks rolling down her window. “Where are you headed?”

I sit my bags on the curb. “I’m fine, just waiting on my Uber. I’m good.” I answer simply

“Riding in an Uber by yourself at 11:30 at night? Hell no! Get in the car.” She says opening up her door and walking over to me

“No!” I say with raised hands. “I’m fine!”

She looks me up and down. “Where are you staying?”

I shrug. “Probably get a hotel for the next two days. My son is with his dad and his fiancé.”

“I have an idea.” Heather says grabbing one of my bags and stuffing it in her trunk. “I just got a new place and one of the most comfortable let out beds, if you’re not comfortable sleeping in bed with me.” She smiles

I shake my head. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea, Heather.”

“Well clearly none of us are good at picking out good ideas.” She giggles. “Look hotels cost so much, and it’s damn near midnight. You’d be in the lobby all day before check in.” She closes her truck. “We’ve already done everything, but seen each other’s insides.” She chuckles and I actually do the same

I nod. “Okay, thanks. But I want to pay you.”

“Pay?” She shakes her head. “I can’t take anything from you.”

“Well let me buy you food…” I shrug

She smiles. “Deal!”            

On the way to her place she kept up the small talk, and this seems to get even more weird. She talked to me as if we were friends, and like nothing just popped off less than an hour ago. I look over to her and she’s beautiful. No makeup on and I’d still call her a 10. So does that mean she’s crazy? Ugh, what have I gotten myself into.

“Home sweet home.” She says popping her trunk. She stayed in a very cute apartment, that looked quite modern.

I look around. “Nice place. Looks like someone is doing quite good for themselves.”

She smiles. “Chris helped me get it.”

“Helped?” I make a face

She shrugs. “Pulled a few strings, helped with the down payment, and financing for new furniture.”

“Why?” I ask out of curiosity and she laughs

“Believe it or not, but Chris is one of the sweetest, selfless, kind hearted people I know.” She says with a smile

I look to the floor. “Do you still like him?” I ask lowly

“Do you?” She asks burning a hole in the side of my face

I fold my arms. “What Chris and I had was different…”

“Well Chris and I weren’t always just buddies either.” She snaps, but quickly changes her tone. “Chris actually showed me what it felt like to have someone care for you. He didn’t say “Suck my dick and I’ll help you get this apartment”, he offered because he saw the shithole I was living in and wanted better for me.” She speaks angelically about him. “He’s so passionate and it shows with everything he does. I think that’s why I can’t let him go.”

I drop my arms. “Crazy thing is, I know that exact feeling.” I shake my head. “I have never been with a guy that fills me with so much emotion. Like right now, I want to hate him so much, but I still just want to be held by him.”

“He does have that effect on you.” She giggles. “And that’s why you can’t give up.” She locks eyes with me

I roll my eyes sitting on the couch. “That is clearly over. He chose who he wanted to be with, and I can’t get mad at him for that. It hurt my feelings, but he’s absolutely right.”

“Wrong!” Heather says sitting next to me. “Chris turns into Captain-Save-A-Hoe whenever Rita is around, because she’s needy as fuck. She guilt trips him into her trap every time, and that’s not fair. She’s not with him. I saw how he looked at you and me when he was with us. We show him a good time, he’s relaxed, and he’s the old Chris. He never acted like this before her. Rita stresses him out. She’s no good for him.” She touches my shoulder. “I’d rather you have him if I can’t.”

I shift in my seat. “What are you saying?”

“Chris was right, you two can’t be seen together, Mijo would kill all of us. Myself included! But what if we were Chris’ girlfriends when necessary. We could keep him happy. He loves both of our personalities, bodies, and can’t get enough of either of us.” She smirks. “Plus, I think you’re sexy as shit.”

My eyes get big. “So I’d be having sex with you too?”

She smiles. “Only if you want to. I actually liked it.”

“I don’t know about this.” I say standing. “How do we know Chris would even agree? And I don’t know what my feelings are right now about anything.”

Heather stands in front of me. “You have a boyfriend who is good for you, but we both know Chris is where it’s at. Just don’t get too attached to Chris. Stop ignoring your boyfriend, and hang out with other people. Chris will notice that, and come right back. I guarantee it. He’s only after Rita because she’s always seeking attention. She probably has a man herself.”

“She does.” I say looking up at Heather. “But of course, Chris is wrong when he moves on.”

Heather nods. “Yeah, because she wants everything her way.”

“I don’t want to lose Chris. I think we just need to talk.” I admit

Heather throws her arm around me. “And neither do I. I don’t want to lose you either…”

I smile. “So what are you saying now?”

“What do you think I’m saying?” She giggles

“Well…” I start, but I’m cut off by her lips crashing into mine. During the three-sum, we kissed once, but it was mostly touching and her lips on my body. They are plump and soft, and I can taste her minty lipgloss. She grips my thigh, and I rub my fingers in her hair. Honestly right now, I just want to cuddle.

Why the fuck not…

Rita

I was finally at my mom’s house, but my head was still spinning somewhere over at Chris’ place. We called everyone and told them to meet us here, because Sevyn was still missing. I didn’t know how to feel with Chris and Mijo in the same room as me, but I couldn’t deal with that right now.

“Is everyone okay?” My mom asks bringing in snacks and bottled water

Robb stands up. “I just don’t know why we’re still here! Shouldn’t we be out there looking for her? None of yall are acting like you care right now.”

“It’s my girl! You don’t make no decisions on this. You over stepping your boundaries my dude.” Trey says mugging Robb

Robb walks over to Trey. “Do we have an issue I know nothing about? I can solve them all right now nigga.” He says getting in Trey’s face

“Stop!” My mom yells breaking them apart with Mama J

“I agree with Robb though, us waiting on Michael isn’t getting us any answers.” Honey replies in a low voice. I can tell she’s upset as well. “We should be doing something.”

“I think we should call her mom. This is getting serious.” I say holding onto Lauren. “Us fighting isn’t going to help either.

Door opens

“We’re not calling anybody yet!” Michael says sternly, with his team right behind him.

My Michael spots me instantly, and comes over to comfort me. He hugs me tight, kissing the top of my head. “Rita, we will find her, I promise. Trust me, we will bring your friend home, I don’t want you worrying.”

I needed him right now. A man that wanted nothing but the best for me. That loved me, and wanted to see me happy. I needed his energy right now so that I could finally break down, and that’s exactly what I did. I cried for myself, all of the pain in this house, for my sister, for my mother, for Sevyn’s mom, for the lies Mijo knew nothing about, for my broken friendship with India, and for my missing best friend. God, please help us find her. I can’t take any more pain.

My sobs could be heard echoing throughout the house, and Michael never let me go. He held me so tight that I didn’t need to stand on my own two feet. He rocked me, listened to me say absolutely nothing, and wiped away every single tear. Tears that were brought on by another man. “Just let it out, Rita, I got you.” He whispers in my ear.

By the time I’m done crying, my face is red and my breathing is now heavier than ever. I lean into his chest, just being held. “Thank you for being here….” I say lowly into his now soaked cotton t-shirt.

“MJ, get upstairs now.” Michael calls out rudely  

He looks to me. “Are you okay?”

“No…” I mouth, shaking my head. “But I’ll be fine.”

“MJ!” Michael yells, walking up the steps

He moves my hair out of my face. “Rita, you know I will stay with you no matter what. Just say the word, and I’m not leaving you.”

“I think you’re forgetting who the fuck you work for!” Michael snaps, walking back down the steps towards the both of us. I pull him to me, but neither of them are backing down. “Get the fuck upstairs.”

Honey stands, stepping to him. “Won’t you fucking chill Michael! He’s doing exactly what you should be doing to your wife! Comforting her! Making sure she’s okay! Sevyn was like a daughter to her, and you knew her almost as good as any of us.” She says rolling her neck with sarcasm. “Act like you have a heart for once, and not just a black pit filled with hate.  You should be upset too! Instead of yelling at him for being the rock Rita needs right now, how about you fucking take notes.” The look on her face is one I have never seen before. Michael steps closer to her…

“Come on baby...” Keeis says lowly grabbing her hand

She raises a brow. “What? You gone hit me too?” She says and his face changes. “I hit back….” She says with no fear. But who is Michael hitting?

“Whoever wants a job tomorrow has 5 seconds to get upstairs.” Michael says backing off, and walking upstairs with the majority of his men. Some of the others went down to the basement.

I finally breathe. “Go…” I say letting go of my Michael. “I’m okay…”

“Text me if you need anything.” He says before pecking my forehead and heading upstairs.

Honey comes over to me, hugging me tight. “Are you sure you’re okay?” I nod, but a tear falls from my eye. She wipes it away. “What’s going on? Is it Sevyn? I’m trying to think positive too, but I can’t help but worry.”

“Yeah…” I lie looking over to Chris, who is staring at me with death in his eyes. I quickly look away. I don’t know if I will ever be able to face him.

Lauren touches my back. “So… Do you guys want to go to the police or just keep looking around in circles. LA is huge, we will never find her at this rate.”

“I will!” Robb stands and then storms out of the room

My mom walks over hugging Lauren, Honey, and I. “We will find her girls, let’s just be patient a little bit longer. Michael knows some of the top people, and he will have her home in no time.”

Just as she finishes, he and his team comes back down stairs. ‘We’re on it.” He hugs and kisses my mom. She is hesitant around him these days; I hope everything is okay. “I love you.” He says kissing her hair as she nuzzles up to him. “We’re going to find her Rita. You girls just need to trust me.” He says looking from me to Lauren, and then to Honey who turns away.

“You better?” My Michael says pulling me into his arms.

I nod looking up to him. “You’re going out to find her?”

“Didn’t I tell you I would?” He gives me a light smile, and then kisses my forehead

“MJ…” Michael says, interrupting us. “Rita, when were you going to tell me about this?”

I make a face. “Tell you about what?”

“What you have going on with my workers? You know I don’t bring my family into my work shit. You know this. I just think it was disrespectful on both parts.” He says with a straight face

I roll my eyes. “First of all, Michael I knew him before he worked for you. And secondly, you don’t control who I date. What we have is clearly private since you knew nothing about it.”

He chuckles. “Okay, Rita...” He turns to Michael. “You’re fired!”

I make a face. “What!”

“Because they are adults making adult decisions?” Lauren chines in

 Michael B. Jordan

“I’m the boss around here, and you people will realize that one day.” Michael says turning to me again. He has a smirk on his face.

I shrug. “I told you, I’m not hard up for you or your money. I got what I wanted.” I say throwing my arm around Rita’s shoulder. “I’m good with or without it.” Especially because Amber and I have conjured up such a good plan that we have drained multiple accounts of his. She had all of his files, bank books, statements, and all of his trafficking receipts. He must have really trusted her because she knew everything and his wife knew nothing. Amber told me how he lied to his ex-wife about having a vasectomy, just so he could kill Rick, drain his Switzerland accounts, and get Evelyn. Just so happens, Rick wasn’t a good man for her anyway. Said the man had millions stashed, but because he didn’t want his real fortune to go to Evelyn, in case of a divorce, he hid it all. Didn’t expect to die at the hands of the only other man who knew about the account.

“Oh really? It’s like that huh?” Michael says turning around. “……Chris…”

One second I’m just standing there, and the next I’m pinned down by his clown ass nephew. Even though he had me pinned down, I was still getting in some punches. I can hear Rita and her girls yelling, but I can also feel someone pulling on me. He punches me in the face and it stings like hell. Not sure if he knew I did amateur MMA fights or not, but that last punch pissed me off. I quickly flip him as hard as I can, and really start beating his ass.

“Michael! No! Stop!” I hear a familiar voice call, and I immediately stop. She grabs me by my arm, and pulls me to her side. “Chris what the fuck is wrong with you!”

His mouth is bloody. “Don’t you ever fucking touch my woman again! Next time, I’m gone make sure you not breathing, you bitch!” He spits. “Let me the fuck out!” He snaps walking out of the door, slaming it behind him.

“Fuck!” I curse lowly, grabbing my sore jaw

Rita touches my face. “I’m so sorry!”

I kiss her hand. “Definitely not your fault.”

“Get the fuck out!” Rita and I both turn and freeze noticing the gun pointing at me.

“Michael are you out of your rabbit ass mind!” Evelyn says standing at his side. “Put the gun down, now!”

He turns to her, and back to me. “This my fucking house! You think I’m going to let this lil nigga come in my house like he running shit? Talking reckless, out here kissing on Rita, and fighting Chris! Get the fuck out or get shot in the face!” He snaps turning back to me

“Unk, what’s the problem!” One of his nephews says stepping to him. “You know we don’t do shit like this. Chris jumped and they went head to head. Fair fight!”

I grab Rita’s hand. “I’ll leave when Rita is ready.”

“Let’s just go!” She says standing in front of me. “We can go!” She turns to Michael

He tucks his gun. “So you’re turning your back on family now?! Huh!”

“You’re a fucking lunatic, Michael!” Honey snaps. “I knew you wouldn’t change! First you hit my mom, blacking her eye, and now pulling guns on people. And you want us to “respect the family”? You don’t even respect our mom and your unborn child!”

Before I can grab her, Rita slaps Michael with all her might. “You hit my mom!” She screams, now in my arms. “Fuck you and your weak ass nephew! Neither one of you know what love or respect means!” She pulls out of my grip. “I’m going to find my best friend. The one who, at one point, wasted her valuable time with you. If anyone wants to help me and go to an actual police station, then come on. Being here is just wasting time.” She says grabbing my hand before leading me outside. “He’s not trying to find her.”

Shit, I don’t think I’m ever letting her go…

Michael Brown

“Dammit Michael, how dare you!” My sister Joyce curses, walking out of the house with Evelyn by her side.

As I watch my family walk out on me, I feel myself getting angrier by the second. “Fuck!” I curse going down in my basement. I slam the door, and lock it behind me. “Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!” I turn on the light, going deeper into my downstairs office.

Muffled screams

I cock my head looking at her exhausted body trying to break out of the tape and rope. “No, no, no baby girl. You’re going to hurt yourself.” I say looking at her bloody wrists. I move the hair out of her face. “You know your friends are up there trying to look for you. Got Robb walking off on me, Keeis defending people who are going against me, my fiancé talking back, and just a whole shit load of chaos.” I smile. I usually can handle it, but right now I feel like I’m losing it all. Wife on the verge of leaving me, you aborted my baby, Amber is off somewhere with my other baby, stealing all of my money that Rick stashed away. Rita is dating my security, Chris been drinking, and who told Mijo to propose to this bitch. Huh?” I yell, snatching the tape off of Sevyn’s mouth. She cries out loudly, and begins to scream. I slap her with all my might. “You know this room is sound proof.” I huff. “I got a headache as is, I don’t want to hear all that.

“Why did you bring me here?” She cries. “I’ll do anything. I won’t tell them you took me.”

I grab her face. “The crazy thing is, I know you wouldn’t.” I say rubbing my fingers through her hair. “You’re such a good woman, Sevyn.” I kiss her lips, and it feels like the old times. “But I need my family to get back to normal. I can’t have all of these distractions in my way. I need something major to restore everything back in order.”

“What?” She says looking up at me with her beautiful dark brown eyes

I kiss her forehead. “You’re making it so hard to say goodbye.” I say pulling out my gun with the silencer. “Well not really.”

“Michael! No! Please! Help!” She screams  

Chris

I had been calling and texting Rita all day, but she wasn’t answering the phone for me since our talk earlier. I decided to drop by her house, but no one was home, so I went to go check with Mama Ev. When I pulled up, my uncles’ car was in the drive-way, along with Mama E and another unknown car.

Knocks on the door

An older woman with a thick Spanish accent answers the door. You can tell she is older, but she still carried a beautiful youthful look. She looked just like my baby, so it didn’t take long for me to realize who she was.

“Hello young man, are you here to pick up the donations?” She asks sweetly, turning to pick up the box. “I’m so glad you finally showed up, now I can finally clean this place up.” She says struggling with the flimsy cardboard box.

I take it from her, and smile. “No ma’am, I’m Chris Brown, Michael’s nephew and your granddaughter’s boyfrie--…husband…ex-husband.” I stutter

“Ex-husband?” She says making a face. “Which one of my babies got married to you and didn’t tell me?”

“Rita, ma’am.” I say lowly getting nervous. “It wasn’t for long; we got it annulled a month later, Ms. Lozada.”

She rolls her eyes dramatically. “I don’t even know why they call me for help, if they’re going to keep things like this from me.” She holds out her arms. “Well it’s nice to meet you finally, Chris. At least I know you will tell me things.” She smiles kissing my cheek. “Staying for lunch?”

“No ma’am, I’m just here looking for Rita.” I chuckle. We both turn when we hear the kitchen door open.

Mama E walks into the room and my face and mood completely changes. “Hey Chris, how are you?” her voice is low, but still cheerful. She’s wearing a fitted dress, showing off her new baby bump, with her long wavy blonde hair flowing past her shoulders. She looks summer time fine, but the bruise on her face sends rage up my body.

“What happened to you?” I speak calmly, but nothing about me is calm as of now. She gives me a look telling me everything, without saying a word

Ms. Lozada huffs, going into the fridge. “Clumsy girl falls trying to carry all the pots and pans. I told her let me cook, but she’s just hardheaded, eh. Just like Rita, you should know.” She says going back to making dinner

“Where is Michael?” I say not breaking eye contact with her, but she looks so scared. I had to see that look for too many years from my mom, and I won’t do it with Mama E. She doesn’t deserve it.

“Chris….No….” she mouths, walking towards me. “He’s busy right now. I’ll just tell him you stopped by.” She says walking me into the next room. She tucks her hair behind her ear, and lets out a deep sigh. “Can you not do this, Chris?” She asks lowly

My eyes get big. “Can I not do this? You letting him put his hands on you, Mama E?” I grab her arm. “Rita gone kill you too for even allowing this shit. You have to be crazy if you think I’m not about to get on him for this shit.” I say with heavy breaths

“It was accident…He just---” She speaks lowly trying to keep me silent

“Accident my ass, Mama E! I didn’t stand for my mom getting hit, and I’m not going for this shit either. I don’t care if he’s my uncle or not, he shouldn’t have put his hands on….” I stop after hearing the words flow from my lips. I didn’t hit her in the face, but I bruised Rita and now she’s afraid of me. Same shit, and here I am acting like a hypocrite. I grab her hands. “Mama E, I love you and I think you deserve better. Don’t accept this and don’t marry my uncle right now. He’s not ready, and I don’t know if you are either…”

“Chris… That is not for you to say!” She says shaking her head. “I didn’t stop you and Rita, and there is so much that she told me about you, and she still put her trust and love in you.”

I let out a sigh with my hands up. “Fine. Fine, Mama E. I’m sorry I overstepped my boundaries again.”

“I know you’re just looking out for me. You’re my big baby, and I’m like your second mama.” She smiles hugging me and then kissing my cheek.

I kiss the top of her head. “You know I love you Ms. Evelyn, and I just want to make sure you are okay.”

“I know love, but could you please just keep this between me and you? I don’t need anyone else finding out, especially Honey.” I touch her belly, and she does the same…

I think about it, but then think back to the situation with Rita. I’m not a bad guy, I just made a mistake. Maybe the same happened with Unk. “I promise, Mama E. It’s between you and me.”

I say my goodbyes, and walk out of the house. I hope this is the first and last time I ever have to see Mama E looking like that. I might just have to talk to him… Or tell Rita.

 Michael Brown

“So what’s the word on Amber?” I ask my useless team as they all gather into my office. I look over to Tommy, and he looks down to the ground. “So nobody can find this bitch! One simple women can’t be found by 6 so called “trained men”? Are you kidding me?”

“She was your woman, maybe you need to find her…” MJ says lowly with an attitude

I quickly turn to him. “What the fuck did you say?” I don’t know why I keep this smart mouth bastard on my team. For some reason he reminds me of myself and my nephew, and I have a soft spot for the hot headed kid.

He looks up to me. “I’m just saying maybe--” He starts, but one of my head security guard’s jumps in

“What the kid is trying to say is where are some of the spots she used to hang out? We can’t look all around the city, that’s just wasting valuable time, Brown.” He says touching MJ’s shoulder

I look from MJ to Paul. “Aite, I guess you’re right about that. Paul, meet with me and we will get a list set up for places we have visited and her friends and family houses or jobs. MJ, you’re off the job, I have a special job for you.” I say rubbing my hands together

He stands. “Why? What job?”

“I need you to get Sevyn to the basement of my old house. She won’t come easy, so you may need some help.” I say simply, grabbing my MacBook and handing it to Paul

He makes a face. “Why me? I’m the only one making progress on the Amber case and shit. Why can’t Idris do it, he’s barely doing work as is. Plus, Sevyn knows my face and who I…” He stops mid-sentence

I raise a brow. “How do you know Sevyn?”

“I mean I met her before and she---” He starts lying and I immediately cut him off

“How the fuck do you know Sevyn!” I snap and the rest of my security stands

He looks from me to the rest of my security. “We weren’t going to say anything, but I’ve been seeing Rita.”

He speaks and I can feel my blood boiling. “My Rita?”

“I think you mean my Rita, sir…” He says with full attitude

I chuckle, stepping to him. “I don’t think you realize how I am about family. You’re seeing my step daughter and I don’t approve, so it won’t happen.”

“Well I hate to break the news to you, but it’s happening and we make each other happy. I can’t let that one go, Michael.” He steps back, but I step even closer

“This wasn’t up for debate, MJ. That’s my daughter and I don’t mix my work with my family.” I grip his shoulder. “Imagine what would happen if some information were to leak to one of them. I’d have to kill you by default, and neither one of us wants that.” I smile

He raises a brow. “I don’t think it would be that hard for you. Like I said, she knows me and I can’t take the job. I can work with you on the Amber case, but I want no parts dealing with Sevyn.”

“Funny how you think you’re calling the shots around this bitch. Take the job or get the fuck out! I need her here by 12pm.” I say and he turns walking out of the room. He better make the right decision.

Paul comes closer to me. “You trust him? Something about that mouth of his…”

“You know what…” I say pulling out my know phone. “For some reason I do..”

Knocks on the door

Evelyn walks into the room looking as beautiful as ever. I pull her to me. “Look at you.” I say touching her face, but she flinches. “I’m sorry baby.” I say lowly kissing the side of her face.

“I know…” She speaks softly, rubbing her belly. “Just came to tell you the food is ready.”

I kiss her lips. “I love you, Evelyn. You know that right?” She nods walking out of the room and I follow her.

“Let me help you.” I say holding her hand, walking with her downstairs. “Question though. Have you talked to Rita? Did you know she’s talking to MJ?”

She nods. “She said they went on a couple of dates.”

“Why didn’t you tell me about this, Ev!” I snap letting her hand go

She walks over, sitting out the plates and napkins. “She’s an adult Michael.”

“Naw, I don’t like it. I need to call her, this got to end now.” I say pulling out my phone, but Evelyn walks over trying to take it from me.

She grabs my arm. “She’s 22, we can’t tell her who she can and can’t date.”

I push her, and she falls to the floor. “Stop! You keep undermining me and act confused when you get hurt. I’m the man of this family and you need to realize that.”

She pulls herself up, pushing my helping hand away. “Just don’t…” She says now cradling the baby. “This is the second time today.” She says wiping away newly formed tears. “You can hurt me all day, but I will not let you put our baby in danger.” She says running back upstairs…

“Dammit!” I curse aloud. “Evelyn!”

 Rita

9:45pm

I haven’t spoken to anyone today, and for the most part, my phone has been off. I finally cut it back on, and the notifications begin to pour in. I look and see a few messages that seem alarming.

Mama Street: Hi baby girl, have you seen or talked to my daughter today? She’s not answering

I instantly call her back…

Rita: Hey mama, I’m sorry my phone has been off all day. Is everything okay?

Mama Street: Well, I hope so. No one can get in touch with Sevyn, and I was hoping you talked to her sometime today or seen her.

I instantly start to panic…

Rita: No ma’am I haven’t, but I’m about to go look for her now.

Mama Street: Thank you so much baby. I hate being this far from her as is. If you find out anything, can you please call me?

Rita: I promise…

I get off the phone with Sevyn’s mom, and I instantly get an uneasy feeling. On to the next message…

Chris: Hey, I need to talk to you ASAP, call me

Chris: It’s not about me and you, stop ignoring me

Chris: Fuck it!

I finally decide to reply to him…

Rita: Phone was off

Rita: You say this isn’t about us, but we really do need to have a real conversation about our relationship...whatever it is at this point…

I let out a deep sigh, and finish replying to the rest of my messages…

MBJ: Rita, I don’t know if it’s something I did, but I don’t like when you ignore me. I thought we were doing good. Do you not like me anymore?

MBJ: I always will protect you.

MBJ: I know you might not want to see me, but I can’t help my feelings for you.

MBJ: I’m sorry

MBJ: I just want to know that you’re okay…

MBJ: Have a good night, love…

I read the messages from Michael and immediately begin to feel like shit. This man actually cares about me, but I’m sitting here waiting for Chris to grow up. I don’t know if I can do it without him. I don’t know if I want to. I love him, and that feeling just won’t subside.

I get up and throw on some clothes so that I can try to find where Sevyn could be. I start with the two people who may know where she is.

Rita to Lauren, Trey: Hey, just got off of the phone with Ms. Streeter. I know my phone has been off all day, but neither of you have talked to Sevyn today?

Trey immediately replies….

Trey: No! She left this morning for a run at UCLA and said she was going to get breakfast. Haven’t seen her since 9am. I’ve been calling you since 11am!

Rita: I’m sorry, I had some stuff going on and I didn’t know. My phone has been off all day.

Lo: No, and I’ve looked everywhere =( called anyone we may know

Trey: Rita you always do that shit. As soon as you get mad, your phone is off and you shut off the world for attention not knowing real shit is going on. What are you mad at Chris AGAIN! Took you 24 hours to realize your so called best friend is missing.

Lo: Trey! Look Rita, my parents called your mom, and she’s been looking out as well. I think we may have to get Michael involved. He knows all the right people to find her.

I look at the messages and I honestly don’t even know how to reply. I throw on my Nike running shoes, and head to Chris’ house. Maybe he will know what to do. Every stop light is a moment to myself where I think “what if”? She called me at 8:45am, and even though I was awake, I ignored her phone call. I was so in my feelings that I may have missed some important information about where my best friend may be. She probably needed my help and I was the first person she called. But I selfishly put her to the side to try and make Chris feel bad. Trey was absolutely right, I do it because I’m mad in the beginning, but in the end, it is for attention from Chris. To show him what it will be like without me. To make him suffer like he’s making me suffer, but you can only do that if the other person gives a fuck.

I think of the fun times Chris and I have had. Our first trip out of town together to Las Vegas. Our first date at Red 6 sushi restaurant. The times that I had to teach his class, but I was so shy around him that I would stumble over my words or begin to stutter. All the flowers he would send me, and have sweet love notes tucked within the long stems. His smile, the first thing I ever noticed about him, which is also his best asset. The way he would kiss me, and even though no sex was involved, I would be in ecstasy. The good and bad times we would share at the park. Meeting his dad for the first time and watching him protect me with his all. The time he pierced my nipples, and laughed at my pain. And how could I even forget about our shotgun wedding. Just us! Chris wore a black eye and bruised face, but he still smiled knowing that he had me for the rest of his life. I smile thinking of all the good times we’ve actually had with one another. I talk about all our shitty moments, but we have spent two years literally fighting just to be in each other’s arms. This can’t be it! We’ve invested so much into one another; this can’t be the end!

I speed the rest of the way to his place, and I see that lights are still on. I get out of the car and can’t wait to just see his face. I think he’s worth the wait, and maybe we both just need to have some patience with this relationship. I still have a key to his place, so I ring the doorbell, and then stick my key into the door. I walk in, and everything is on, including the paused Call of Duty game.

“Chris!” I call out, walking to the back. I see his car and phone on the table, so I know he’s here. “Chirs!” I call out again, knocking on his bedroom door.

I hear shuffling. “Rita! Wait! Hold on, I need to get dressed!” He yells back

“Chris, I really need your help…Sevyn is missing…” I speak, opening his door, and immediately dropping everything in my hands. A sharp pain quickly rises in my chest…

 India

I honestly didn’t want to move. I look over to Chris, and he’s frozen just like the rest of us.

“Well I’m going to the bathroom.” Heather says getting out of bed and going into Chris’ attached bathroom. “We’re adults, let’s act like it…”

I look to Heather and roll my eyes. I knew this was a bad idea from the beginning.

“Rita…” Chris says lowly getting out of the bed. I try to cover myself, not knowing what to do next. She looks from me, and then back to Chris, but says absolutely nothing. Chris turns to me, and then back to Rita. “Baby… We should talk in the other room.” He starts sliding on his sweats before she interrupts

“No, we don’t have anythi--” She chokes on her words picking up her purse and now cracked iPhone. “I don’t need to speak to either of you ever again!” She says now turning to me

I wrap the covers around me, trying to get out of bed. “Rita, it’s not what it seems, Chris and I just--” I start, but stop as soon as her eyes dart to me and slit my throat like the sharpest knife

Heather walks out of the bathroom now dressed. “At least you two don’t have to sneak anymore.”

“….sneak anymore?” Rita repeats, looking back to Chris. “That explains the way India has been acting…” She shakes her head as the tears fall from her eyes, but she quickly wipes them away. “I’m not wasting anymore of my time and tears on you. The entire car ride here, I thought of all the good times and how you’re worth another try, but you’re just as everyone said. You are your uncle, if not worst!”

He tries to step to her. “Rita, it’s not like that, baby we can do--” He reaches for her, but she draws back quickly, but misses his face by an inch. I jump and so does Heather…

“Fuck you!” She screams. “You’re fucking Mijo’s baby mama, who is supposedly my friend. Fake as hell, I should have just listened to my sister about you.”

I feel my life ending in front of me. She’s going to tell him. “I’m not fake, this just happened. We didn’t want to hurt either of you.”

She doesn’t even address me. “Just know I’m not saying shit to Mijo. Even though you two are absolute trash, I’d never want him to hurt like this. His best friend and the woman who claimed she couldn’t move past him if she wanted to. You seem just fine to me. You two deserve each other, and I’m so glad he has a better woman on his arm now.” She doesn’t even look back before she slams the door.

“FUCK!” Chris curses loudly, knocking everything off of his dresser. “What the fuck did I just do?” He curses to himself, looking for a shirt.

I walk over to him. “It’s going to be okay, Chris. She said she wasn’t going to tell Mijo, so--” I start, but he knocks my hand off of him

“NO, it’s not okay!” He snaps. “She wanted me back! She wanted it to be us again! I fucking ruined my chances to ever get back with her.”

I make a face. “Getting back with her? I thought we…” I stop

He shakes his head. “In what world would we look right being together?” He spews in full attitude. “Your son is my fucking nephew! His dad has been my best friend since I was 4 years old. Our mothers cleaned

up houses together, straight struggling for a better life. I introduced you two! I was there when his mom died, and we took him in as my brother, a real Brown! What the fuck can we do together in public?”

“And you knew all of that shit while you were not only taking me on dates, but fucking me too!” I yell, pushing him.

“Yeah, well clearly I made the wrong decision. Yall two get out, I need to go find her.” He says grabbing his keys and then leaving us in the house alone

Evelyn

I was so tired from wedding planning, being sick every day with the first trimester blues, and trying to keep Princeton from getting into any and everything. I needed help, Michael just wasn’t doing it. I decided to move my mother in with us, because it seems like I’ve been seeing him less and less since the engagement.

“I don’t see why you get pregnant this soon anyway!” My mother snaps as she peels the potatoes. “You got my baby 10months old, and now you decide to have another one.”

I roll my eyes, stirring the broth for the gumbo. “Can we not talk about this right now?”

“What? Don’t get an attitude with me girl. Look at you, baby on your hip, and a baby in your stomach!” She says kissing her teeth. “You’re on your third husband, and the first two are dead.”

“Mom!” I snap turning to her

She sighs. “Well at least my two baby girls came out good.”

I sigh. “Have you talked to Rita?”

“Yes, she is the one who took me shopping for the new summer dresses.” She smiles

I turn back to the gumbo, cradling Princeton on my hip. “And Honey?”

“Who?” She says chopping up the carrots. “Who is Honey?”

I shake my head. She knows exactly who Honey is. “Sonja, mom!”

She huffs. “Nope, the girl hasn’t even been to see her grandmother. I have a great grandbaby who doesn’t even know his Memaw.” She stands, taking Princeton from me. “I love all of my babies, and I just want everyone together again. We used to be close, but you always seem to--- ”

“Mom, she will be here…” I say lowly

“How?” She snaps her neck to me. “You choose these men over these girls. Sonja needed you after her papa died, and all you did was move on to the investment banker, and now our on with the next millionaire. Do you love him? Does he love you? What do you know about this man other than him “saving” you from Rick, who I told you not to marry?”

I slam the spoon down. “Why do you do this?” I scream, rubbing my temples. “Every time I want to be happy, you have to downplay it.”

“Happy? How are you happy, Aveline? You can hardly stand on your own, but yet your rich man can’t even take off for one day to take care of you. He comes home at all times of night, and you just accept it.” She says touching my face. Lately I have been sick to my stomach, wondering is me marrying Michael is the right thing to do.

Door opens

“And what is this?” Michael says walking into the house. “How are you, mama?” He smiles hugging my mother, but she’s standoffish.

She kisses her teeth. “Hello Mr. Brown…” She speaks nonchalantly walking out of the room with Princeton. “I’ll finish dinner later.”

“So what is going on in here?” Michael says, kissing my cheek. I touch his face, as he rubs my belly. “How are my babies?”

I give a low smile. “Nothing baby, I just wanted to get started on dinner for tonight.”

“You sure that’s all?” He says looking towards the door my mother just walked through

I let out a low sigh. “Not right now, Michael.”

“What? So I just accept being disrespected in my own house? Huh? I refuse to walk around my own home, and be ridiculed. And you’re not even sticking up for me, Ev!” He says walking over to the barstools. “This is my house, and I will not be disrespected!”

I turn to him. “Home? When did this become a home? You’re never here! You’re not with me, ever! I needed help around here, and my mother was the one who came to help. Don’t come at my mother for being concerned about me!” I snap

“What?” He makes a face, now standing

“You heard me!” I say rubbing my small protruding belly. “You haven’t been to one fitting, a doctor’s appointment, or help me arrange this so called marriage that you agreed to. I spend all of my day’s spending money, decorating the houses, buying cars, clothes, shoes, and I hate it all! You love your job; you don’t love me.”

He chuckles. “Because I take care of my family? I’m a bad person because I make a living for you and---”

“I don’t need you!” I scream, turning my whole body to him. “I don’t need your money, your so called fame, and I don’t need your half assed love! I was taking care of my family before you, and they will be just fine after you!”

He steps to me. “What did you say to me?”

“I said I don’t need--” I start, before I feel a sharp pain on the side of my face, making me drop to the floor….

He steps back. “Don’t you ever talk to me like that again… Ever!”

“Michael…..” I cry lowly, grabbing my face with one hand and protecting my baby with the other. “How could you hit…” I start, but can’t even finish my statement

He walks over to the fridge. “Get up….” He says lowly. “You need to go get yourself cleaned up, get dressed, and get out of the house for a while…”

I grab onto the counter lifting myself up. “But I---”

“I said get up…” He speaks lowly, turning to me, but never offering help. “You clearly need a good spa day or something. Get out of the house, and make sure that doesn’t bruise…” He speaks walking out of the room.

I can’t believe he just hit me…

 Rita

I wake up this morning feeling like a zombie. I look down at my sore arms, and they are both bruised. I feel the dried up tear stains still on my face. I go into my bathroom, and quickly jump into the shower. I let the water drip down my face, and down my body. I stand here with every emotion in the world. Chris told me that he still wanted me, but then told me that I still had to wait on him. Then I have a man like Michael, who is head over hills crazy about me, and wants to make me his now. I really like Michael, but I am still in love with Chris, and I don’t know how to get over him. Then I think of how he scared me last night; I’ve never seen him so mad.

Phone rings

I jump out of the shower, but by the time I make it to the phone, it hangs up. I look down, and my mother has called me. I really don’t feel like dealing with anyone today, so I don’t even call back.

Phone notification

I look down and Michael has also called and left a voicemail…

MBJ: I had been trying to get in contact with you, but your phone was off all night. I hope everything is okay with you. I’ll drop by if you need to talk, but I hope it’s not something that I did. Been a long day not talking to you, beautiful.

I look down at my phone and feel awful. I don’t call back….

Text notification

Chris: Baby, I feel like shit. I’m so sorry about what I did to you last night. I can’t eat and I can’t sleep thinking about the look on your face last night. I fucking love you, but I refuse to let you go. I cannot let another man have you. I will kill him!

I look down at the phone and quickly press the call button…

Phone rings

Chris: Baby!!

Rita: I know, Chris! I know you wouldn’t hurt me on purpose, and I promise I won’t tell anyone about what happened. I could tell you were upset and just wasn’t yourself. I know you care about me, and I’m so sorry if I embarrassed you in front of the guys.

Chris: Rita, who is he?

Rita: Chris I’m not telling you that…

Chris: I’m not gone do shit! Just tell me who he is…

Rita: Chris I’m not doing that! He has nothing to do with this; I didn’t even tell him about you. I was lonely, and you have done so much shit to me. You hurt me, and he has made me feel so much better. He’s a good friend.

Chris: No! I don’t want you talking to him anymore.

Rita: Chris you can’t do that… You don’t have that power anymore.

Chris: I can and I just did. If I have to follow you wherever you go, I will do that. I told you, I still love you and think we can make this work out.

Rita: I waited so long to hear you say that Chris…

Chris: You know I still love you Rita…

Rita: Sometimes I don’t! At the cookout, Heather was in your lap, and you had nothing to say to me, but when a man shows me actual affection, you get mad. You don’t act like you want me until someone else does!

Chris: How can you say that though?

Rita: Chris who are you talking to right now? Who was the last person you had sex with? When was the last time you laid up with someone, kissed passionately, or sent a cute text message? Was it me?

Chris: Rita what does that have to do with…

He starts…

Rita: It has a lot to do with the whole situation! Was it me? How long ago was it? A month? Two? A week? Yesterday?

I interrupt…

He lets out a deep sigh…

Chris: No woman I’ve been with makes me feel like you… None!

Rita: Exactly…

I hang up the phone, and throw it on my bed. How could I be so stupid as to think that maybe this conversation would have gone somewhere? Chris can and will do anything in his power to keep me under his thumb, but what is he doing for me? Absolutely nothing…

 Lauren

I had to prep myself before the date, because I wanted everything to be perfect. I had been calling Rita all morning, but I guess she is busy with Michael. Odell and I had a date planned for tonight, and I was quite excited. All night, we stayed on the phone joking, watching Netflix, and playing question games. He told me about school, his family, and even told me about his 4-year-old son. I was a little hesitant after finding out he had a child, but I can’t miss out on a good guy again. I learned my lesson with Keeis.

Text notification

I look down at my phone, and see that Sevyn has messaged me…. I call her back instead…

Lo: Yessss….

Sev: Have you talked to Rita today? I called her, and I keep getting the voicemail

I roll my eyes…

Lo: I’m pretty sure she’s laid up with Michael. They were sucking face all night, so I’m sure she’s in good hands right now.

Sev: Ha! Well that’s good to know. I was going to go over to check on her, but I need to just chill out overreacting all the time. She’s an adult who has a man.

Lo: Right! And today is still my big day!

Sev: I was just going to ask you about that! Have you started getting ready?

Lo: Getting dressed now. I’m so nervous! I think he’s good so far…

Sev: Don’t over think it. He’s a good guy, so don’t go looking for a reason to hate him. Let the good vides happen, and don’t analyze everything he does.

I let out a deep sigh…

Lo: That is exactly what I needed to hear!

Sev: Believe me girl; I had to learn that the hard way. You will find love, when you find it! You won’t have to question what it is. You will just know.

Lo: Can I ask you a question?

I ask lowly…

Sev: Sure…

Lo: Did you find that in Trey?

I can tell she is now smiling, and it makes me smile from ear to ear…

Sev: I didn’t know at first, but now… Some days I wonder why he even gives me a chance. He’s amazing, and will do anything for me. I think us women are so attracted to things that are the most unhealthy for us. I fought his love for so long, and for what? A man who couldn’t care less about me? I love being in love and happy. You just feel different…

Lo: Sevyn, I want that…. I want that so bad! I can’t keep messing around with August when he has a fiancé that he never planned on leaving…

Sev: One thing I have learned is, even if he does leave the wife, he will never be faithful to you. The relationship will not prosper when it started out on a weak foundation filled with lies…

Lo: I know! I don’t even know why I put myself in that situation…

Sev: Because you loved him. The same reason I was dealing with Michael for so long... It’s like you know the situation is fucked up, mine in particular, but they make you think they’re worth it.

Lo: Should I just block him?

Sev: No, tell him! Let him know that you deserve better, and that’s what you’re going to get. Don’t hide that, because he will think he can come back and everything will be fine.

Lo: That’s what I’m going to do!

Sev: And you’re going to enjoy your date with Odell.

I blush….

Lo: I promise!

Sevyn and I say our goodbyes, and I quickly go to finish off my makeup. I curl my hair and do the most natural makeup look ever. I throw on some very fitted black slacks, a black sweetheart neckline strapless bodysuit, and a cute black blazer. I think the tight dresses I was wearing on dates before gave off the wrong vibes. If I want to find a grown man, I need to look like I want one.

Text notification

I look down and immediately smile…

Odell: I don’t know why I’m so nervous, but I honestly cannot wait to see you.

Lauren: I’m excited myself. See you in 20min =)

I hop up, and quickly make my way over to the restaurant that we were supposed to meet. After giving my car to the valet, I make my way into the dim restaurant. Odell spots me immediately, and comes over to take me to our seats. I can see that champagne is already at the table when I slide into the open chair. I see that he is dressed in a button down and slacks, and I’m so happy with my choice in outfits.

“Damn…” He smiles, caressing my hand. “You look beautiful, Lauren. I have never seen a woman look this good in a suit.”

I blush. “And you look amazing yourself. I hope I didn’t leave you waiting for too long.”

“Girl, I’d wait forever.” He says holding his chest. We both laugh. For a moment I realize, I am making a man smile with my body covered, and no flirting. Just my personality and a genuine conversation will do the trick. We enjoy our lobster bisque soup appetizers, surf and turf entrees, and each other’s company for the rest of the night. He held my hand from across the table, and his eyes didn’t leave mine all night. I was actually sad when it was time for the night to end. He paid the tab with no hesitation, and even asks me did I want anything to go.

“Damn, we done closed the restaurant, Ms. London.” He says helping me from my seat. He grabs my jacket, and helps me slide it back on.

I giggle. “I’m shocked they didn’t kick us out.” I say locking arms with him

“They don’t want these problems, Lauren.” He smiles looking down at me. I can’t help but to cheese from ear to ear with this gorgeous man on my arm. He locks fingers with me. “So what are you doing for the rest of the night?” He asks kissing the back of my hand.

I look into his beautiful eyes, and melt. God, I want to go home with him! Lauren, don’t do it. Keep your panties on, and do not lay down with this man. “Ummm…” I start, trying to break our gaze, but he tilts my head to his. He kisses my lips, and his are so soft. I gently pull away because in the next second, I would have been laid out in my large backseat. “I can’t…. sorry…” I say lowly

“No…” he says holding me close. “I’m sorry... I know you’re not that kind of girl, and I shouldn’t have done that. I shouldn’t have even asked you that, I do apologize.”

“It’s okay.” I smile. “The kiss was nice…”

He smiles back. “Well how about a movie tomorrow to make it up to you?”

I can’t contain my excitement. “I’d love that, Odell.”

Maybe this good girl stuff works…

 Amber

This first trimester has been killing me! I try my hardest to get up every morning and do some kind of workouts, but it was not helping. This morning I decided to get up and go for a run, hopefully I actually make it to 3 miles before I get sick to my stomach. I grabbed my head phones and headed out of the door. I had rented a large home far as hell away from Michael, and I was feeling so refreshed. About 2 and a half hours away in the mountains, I felt so alive again. I didn’t plan on seeing him until the baby came, but for now, I will ruin his life from a distance.

“How are you this morning?” I smile to my neighbors, this elderly couple who happens to be the only other people living on this mountain top with me. They smile and wave watching me go off for my morning jog. This morning, the mountains were quite cold. I usually jog to the peek, but today I think this jog is going to turn into a walk.

“Soooooo…. You come here often?” A guys says stretching against a rock. I had seen him here before, but he’s never spoken before.

I smile. “Everyday… I’m hoping to do so all through my pregnancy…” I say with raised brows. I need him to know now that I am not available.

He chuckles. “Well you look great!” He says tying his Nike running shoes. “Do you really think it’s safe to be out here running though? It’s so much shit going on in this world, you should really stay safe.” He says walking over, handing me my dropped iPod.

“I handle myself.” I nod, reassuring myself. Something didn’t feel right.

He raises a brow. “Oh really?” He cocks his head to the side, raising his shirt, exposing his gun. “And how are you handling yourself, Amber?”

My heart sinks, but I must protect my baby. I scream at the top of my lungs. “HELP! HELP ME!” I try to continue screaming, but he covers my mouth.

“Stop screaming, I’m not trying to hurt you!” He says into my ear, trying to calm me. “You need to calm down.”

I feel the tears falling. “Please don’t take me back to him.” I feel him loosen his grip on me, and now he’s cradling my body. “Please, I’d rather you kill me.” I sob

“Stop!” He snaps, making me jump. “I’m not going to hurt you, just listen! I stopped you, because you’re reckless as hell with your hiding. I found you easy, but them dumbasses aren’t even close. Good location, but you’re just freely out with no weapon. What would you have done if I was down with him?” He says letting me go, but holding me until I am standing on my own two feet.

I wipe my tears. “So what do you want? You must want something!”

He lifts my chin. “I want to ruin him, just like you. I’m not here to hurt you; I’m here to help you. You cannot raise a baby with a monster like that. He is not a good man, and he is going to hurt you if he gets his hands on you. Trust that!”

“I know…” I speak lowly. “I’m not meeting with him until this baby is born and away from him. But why should I trust anything that you say?” I ask looking him up and down.

“Because Amber, I’m a man with a master’s degree in criminal law, but I settled for a job working with him, just to see him fall on his ass. I’m not stopping until I’m done.” He pulls out his wallet, handing me his ID. “You can hold on to this if you want.”

I read the name. “So you’re a Michael too?”

“Nothing like him!” He answers quickly. “He hurt my family a long time ago, and I need everything he has to fall at his feet.”

I look from his ID to him. “So what do I owe you?”

He shakes his head. “Just want you to be safe and to have a healthy baby. I met a girl, and I honestly can’t wait until we get to this stage in our relationship.” He lets out a small smile

“That’s sweet of you, but I’m still not sure if I can just trust that.” I say rubbing my belly. “You may have good intentions, but Michael knows people who are just as good at manipulation.”

He raises his hands. “If I wanted you gone, you would be gone. Stay out here alone, doing the things that you’re doing, and he will kill you with absolutely no problem.”

I look to him, and he doesn’t turn away. “If I agree, will you help me stay away from him? Just until I give birth, and I won’t need your help anymore.”

“Amber I promise.” He says extending his hand. “I just need you to share the information that you know, and I will do the same.”

I hesitate, but shake his hand. “Fine, let’s go to my place and talk.”

It’s sad when the man you used to love, is hated by so many, including me. Some parts of me still wants to run and tell him for his safety, and I hate it!