The Owner of My Soul Vol 1: Chapter V and Chapter VI
CHAPTER V
THE PLAN & THE RETURN
I
woke up in mad confusion. I just dreamed about my life like they were
highlights. It was like my life flashed before my eyes. Like all my dreams,
this one has a meaning. Somethin in my life is bout to change. I looked at my
daughter whom was sleep right beside me. Today is her birthday and I have a lot
planned for her. Then again, it’s JET ,
Damion and Karla’s birthday as well, so I should say we have a lot planned for
them. I got up and went to the bathroom. I took a shower, got dressed, and
called the SJE Constructors.
“Hello,
this is Kenny Johnson, I was callin to verify the constructing of my daughter’s
birthday present.”
“Yes,
sir, it’s completed and ready to be used. It’s in the location you designated.”
“Excellent.
Your payment is on the way.”
“Thank
you, sir. Enjoy.”
“Thank
you.”
I
hung up and looked at my watch. It was 0830. I called UPS to see if my packages
came. They told me it’ll be there in a few hours. So far, everything was
working perfectly. I looked back in the room to see if Tierra was awake. She
was still sleep. I went into the kitchen and made her a hot breakfast. All her
favorites: beef sausage, grits, turkey bacon, cinnamon raison bagel with butter
and cream cheese, and tea. I put it on a tray and headed to her room. She was
just waking up, so I didn’t have to wake her.
“Good
morning, birthday girl.” I said.
“Morning.”
“Got
breakfast for you.”
“Oooooh!
Thank you, Daddy.” I placed her tray across her lap.
“We
have a big day ahead of us. After breakfast, you’re goin to take a bath, get
dressed and go to your birthday party.”
“I’m
havin a birthday party?”
“Don’t
you always?” She pretended to think and then nodded. “This one is goin to be
different.”
“I
can’t wait to see. Is Mommy goin to be here?”
“Sorry,
princess, Mommy won’t be able to make it.” She looked sad. “Don’t worry, baby
girl, we’re goin to have lots of fun.”
“Ok.”
She started eating. I went into my room and called Will.
“When
will you be ready?” I asked him.
“Noon .” He replied.
“Good.
How bout Chris and Dre?”
“Same
time.”
“That’s
what’s good. Iight, I’mma be out dare at noon .”
“It’s
on.” I hung up and went into the living room. I played some music and
straightened the house a lil bit.
“Daddy,
I’m done.” She yelled to me. I went into her room.
“I’mma
run your bath water, get ready.”
I
took her tray and put it in the kitchen. I ran her bath water, dabbed some
bubble bath in it, put the auto shut-off on and went back into the kitchen. I
started doin dishes and cleaning the kitchen. I heard the water shut off.
“Go
ahead and get in, princess?” I yelled to her.
I
looked at my bath monitor and saw her get in. I finished cleaning the kitchen
and the living room. I threw down a lil carpet fresh and started vacuuming. I
looked at the monitor to make sure she was ok, in which she was. I finished
just as she called me. I went into the bathroom and helped her out.
“I’m
getting old, Daddy.”
“That
you are. How old are you today?” I asked her.
“4.”
“No
you’re not.”
“Yes
I am.”
“Uh
uh.”
“Uh
huh.”
“You’re
at least 30.”
“No
I’m not.”
“Yes
you are.”
“Uh
uh.”
“Uh
huh.”
“That
would make me older than you, Daddy.”
“Sure
would.”
“I’m
not older than you.”
“How
do you know? You don’t know how old I am.”
“You’re
22.”
“Smart
ass.” She laughed. I helped her put her clothes on. “You wanna wear sandals
today?”
“Yep.”
She
put on her sandals and sat in her chair, ready for me to do her hair…or should
I say grease her scalp. I grabbed some grease and greased her scalp real good
like. Her braids were still looking good.
“Iight,
princess, you’re set.” I told her.
“So
what are we doin first?” She asked.
“What
time is it?”
“11.”
“We
have some time to kill, so let’s play some games. You pick the game.” She
hooked up the Nintendo, put a game in and gave me my controller.
We
played until 1150. I turned everything off and picked her up. We walked out the
room and downstairs. Chris, Toya, Dre, Yvonne, Will, and the kids were all
waiting. We went out to the backyard. A lil ways back was a building.
“Kids,
feast your eyes on your birthday surprise.” I said. None of them looked
pleased.
“A
big sheet on a building?” Karla asked.
“Sorry.”
Will walked up to the building and pulled a dangling rope, unveiling what was
under the tarp. “Now feast your eyes on your birthday surprise.” They all got
excited.
“Our
very own Chuck E. Cheese.” They all said.
About
45 of their friends ran from the house to Chuck E. Cheese. Our kids led the
way. They ran in and loved what they saw. It had every game for free, a big
ballroom, laser tag, and a lot of food choices. The rest of us casually walked
in and sat down, supervising.
“Y’all
got the otha gifts for em?” I asked.
“Yea,
we’re all set.” Chris said. “What did you get Tierra?”
“You’ll
see. Who got the cake?”
“I
did.” Latoya said. “You’ll love it too. We’ll do that at about 4.”
“So
what are we goin to do all day?” Will asked. We looked around and back at each
other. “Why not?”
We
all got up, got some beer and pizzas and started playing games with our
children. I shot some hoops, which is a cheating way to win lots of tickets for
me cuz I don’t miss. I ended up winning about 6,000 tickets in one hour.
4:00
crept its head around and we were ready to present the cake. Latoya went to the
back to find 5 employees to help carry it. The cake was 8’ long and 3’ wide. It
had all their faces on it, 4 number 4 candles on the foreheads, and were
different flavors. The cake was designed to the flavor each child wanted.
Damion had chocolate, JET had lemon, Karla had white, and Tierra had
strawberry. As it was being carried, we all sang happy birthday. Their faces
lit up as the cake was placed in front of them.
“Iight,
make a wish and blow out your candle.” I told em. They looked at each other and
Tierra led the count. They then blew out their candle at the same time. We
applauded and took pictures of everything. “Iight, let’s get to the presents.”
I looked at the big stack of gifts. “RiiiiiiiiigggghhhhhhtttT!!!”
“Don’t
worry, they’re separated.” Latoya said.
“We
took the time to do that.” Yvonne added. We all handed the appropriate child
the appropriate gift. We took pictures of them opening em. It took an hour for
them to open every gift before getting to ours. When it was all said and done,
I went last to give my daughter her gift.
“Iight,
princess, I have your gift ri hea.” I took her hand and led the way outside.
She saw her gift and was excited to see her dream. She hugged me and ran to the
$1000 play set that she wanted. I don’t know what makes a play set so good, but
she was happy. Her friends joined her and they played in it.
“We
spoil these kids too much.” Will told me.
“You’re
tellin me.” I said. I went back into Chuck E. and had all the tickets counted.
“Sir,
you have 400,000 tickets.” The cashier said.
“Bet.
Let me get……the bear.”
“Good
choice sir.” That cost all my tickets. The bear was soft, big, and cute. I put
it in Tierra’s chair.
It
was 7:30 in the evening when Monique’s presentation ended. She was in the hotel
when her father came to her room.
“Sweetie,
you did an outstanding job. I’m so proud of you.” He hugged and kissed her.
“Thanks
Daddy. I need to call Tierra. It’s her birthday today.”
“Yea,
go ahead. I’ll wait.” She pulled her phone out.
“No
answer at the house.” She then called my cell phone.
“Hey.”
I answered.
“Hey,
baby, is Tierra available.”
“Let
me see.” I went to find Tierra. “Tierra, your mother is on the phone. She wants
to tell you happy birthday.”
“I
can’t. I’m trapped in the balls. I’ll call her back.” She yelled to me,
laughing. I started laughing.
“She’ll
have to call you back. She’s kinda trapped.”
“Can’t
you help her? I want to tell her happy birthday.”
“Sorry,
I’m too big to get in. I’m not allowed. I have to follow the rules you know.”
“Well
as soon as she’s available, can you have her call me?”
“I
will.”
“I
have to go. I love you.”
“Love
you too.”
“Bye.”
I hung up and attended to the alcohol that was waiting on me.
“Can
you believe that? She was too busy to talk to me.” Monique said to her father.
“Don’t
worry about it.”
“Why’d
you make me work on her birthday?”
“I’m
sorry. I didn’t mean for it to happen.” There was a knock on the door. “Ah,
Robert, so nice for you to come by.” Mr. Williams said.
“Hope
I’m not interrupting.” He stated.
“Not
at all.”
“Monique,
I just want to congratulate you on a beautiful presentation.”
“Thank
you, Rob. You played a big part in that yourself.”
“I
had a lil contribution, but you did most of that.”
“Ah,
the future of my company.” Mr. Williams hugged both of them. “You two are goin
to bring great things to my company. I want you two on every big assignment.
Y’all are the best. Please, let’s toast.” He poured the glasses of champagne.
“To prosperity.” They toasted and drank.
A
few hours passed. Mr. Williams left, leaving Rob and Monique alone. They were
talking about life and careers.
“So
why’d you get married at such a young age?” He asked her.
“I found
the right person.” She replied.
“I’m
sorry, but Kenny isn’t right for you. He can spoil you, make love to you, but
he can’t treat you like you deserve. Besides, he’s a lil too violent.”
“I’m
sorry about what happened. I really didn’t think he was watching.”
“Quite
alright. Wasn’t your fault.”
“Kenny
is a good man, but he has a short fuse with a real bad temper. It’s not that he
gets jealous, he just gets defensive when someone is coming into his
territory.”
“You
can’t be happy with a man like that.”
“How
can you say that?” She asked.
“I
just see it. There are things you desire
that he’s not giving you… Things that I would have given you if you gave me
that opportunity.”
“How
would you know that?”
“I’m
gifted with that sort of talent.” She laughed. “Besides, you can’t really say
that you’re in love with the very first person you’ve ever slept with, ya dig?”
“That’s
where you’re wrong. I can easily say that I will be happy for the rest of my
life with the person that has taken my virginity.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
He leaned in and kissed her. She kissed him back and then pushed him away. “I
can’t do this. I love my husband.”
“I’m
not goin to make you do anything you don’t want to do.” He kissed her again;
she embraced him and took off his clothes.
“I
shouldn’t be doin this.” She proclaimed.
“Then
why are you?” He asked.
“It
feels good. I shouldn’t have denied you after all your attempts.”
“Then
don’t deny me now.”
“I
won’t.”
They
continued and did the very thing that I saw comin. Both were sober enough and in
the right state of mind to realize what they were doin.
At
the moment of penetration, somethin hit me. It was like a dagger in my heart. I
pulled my phone out and called Monique. There was no answer. I called again and
once again no answer. The fourth time I called it went straight to voicemail.
The fifth and sixth time I called, it did the same thing, tellin me her phone
was off.
“She
actually did it.” I said to myself.
“Don’t
assume that.” Will told me, reading my mind. “Use your gift to determine that
when she gets back.”
“Good
idea.” I decided not to let it bother me. It was 1020. A lot of the guests were
gone. Actually, all were gone. “Tierra, let’s go home.” I boxed her cake and
put all her gifts on the truck that was parked out front. We drove to the
house. I left her stuff in the truck and carried my 4-yr old daughter upstairs.
“You have fun today?”
“Time
of my life. Did you have fun today?”
“Sure
did.” I opened the door to the room. “Ready to go to bed?”
“No.
I wanna watch Family Guy.” She said.
“Iight.
Put it in and I’ll make some popcorn.”
I
put her down and went into the kitchen. I made some popcorn and poured us some
Pepsi. I sat down with the popcorn. Tierra plopped on my lap and started
eating. We watched almost every single episode of Family Guy before falling
asleep.
Monique
finally came back at about 7 in the morning. I was awake lying with Tierra. She
looked into Tierra’s room and stood at the doorway. I looked at her.
“Welcome
back.” I said. I got up, tryin not to wake Tierra. I hugged Monique.
“I’ve
missed you.” She said.
I
kissed her, backing her up to our room and on to the bed. I took off her
clothes and kissed her beautiful body, completely uninterested in actually
making love to this woman. I touched her and as I went inside her, a vision
flashed before my eyes. I saw the entire affair like I was right in the room
with them.
Realizing
this, I stopped and looked at her. She looked at me and sat up.
“Baby,
what’s wrong?” She placed her hand on my cheek.
“I
forgot I have somethin to do.” I took her hand off my cheek. “Do you have to
work tonight?”
“No.
I’m pretty much off for the rest of the week. What do you have to do?”
“Go
to work. I’ll see you tonight.” I got up and left.
Anger
was in my eyes. I didn’t want to believe she did it, but I now have the proof.
I went to the office to clear my head. Will came in my office to see how I was
holdin up.
“You
hangin in there?”
“Just
tryin to figure out what to do.”
“Why
won’t you bring it up?”
“She’ll
deny it. I have to catch her in the act.”
“And
if you do, what do you intend on doin, taking pictures?”
“Yep.”
I lied down on my couch and looked at the ceiling.
“Well,
if it makes you feel any better, I think Beyonce is cheating on me too.”
“You
vision it?”
“Nah,
just sensed it. If I was as skilled as you than maybe I would have. I’mma have
to catch her in the act as well.”
“I
have a strong feeling tonight will be my chance. By the way, remind me tomorrow
that I have to take Tierra to get her shots.”
“Won’t
be too hard. I have to take Karla. She’s overdue for her tetanus. My
appointment is at about 9.”
“Mine’s
at 8. Or somethin like that.” I looked at my watch and then back at the
ceiling. “I’ll go home at about 6 or 7. For now, I’ll just rest.” I closed my
eyes.
When
I got home that evening, no one was home. I watched TV til they got back, which
was 20 mins later. Monique had bags in her hand. I helped her get them through
the door.
“Noticed
we were a lil low on groceries so I went shopping.” She said.
“Nice
of you.” I said. Her cell went off.
“Hello.”
She answered. I couldn’t hear anything on the other end. Just her responses.
“Why tonight?” Pause. “Can’t it wait til tomorrow?” Pause. “Iight, I’ll be
there in an hour.” She hung up. “Damn it.”
“What’s
up?”
“I
have to go to the office tonight. Daddy wants to see me.”
“Iight.
I’ll make dinner so you’ll have somethin to eat when you get back.”
“Thanks,
baby.”
She
kissed me and went into the room. Minutes later, I heard the shower running.
For someone goin to see her father for a hot minute, she’s getting all fresh
and clean…Hmmmm. I went into the kitchen and got some thangs out for dinner.
Tierra was at the dining table doing homework. She’s been in her new school for
a week. She likes it so far. It’s a private school, so not a lot of kids are
there.
“Daddy?”
She called.
“Yes,
sweetie?”
“Are
you goin to check my homework when I’m done?”
“If
you want me to.”
“I
want to make sure I have everything right.”
“Ok.
Let me know when you’re done.”
I
started cutting chicken breasts into strips. Monique came out the room dressed
and smellin nice.
“I’ll
be back in an hour or so.” She kissed me.
“Don’t
work too hard.” I told her.
“I’ll
try not to.” I watched her walk out. I put the chicken breast in a bowl,
marinated it and threw it in the refrigerator.
“Tierra,
throw some shoes on, we’re goin for a ride.”
“Can
we get some ice cream?”
“Of
course.” I assured her.
She
got up and ran to her room. I grabbed my keys and watched her run out her room.
I locked up and picked Tierra up. I checked my phone to see how much room I had
left. I had enough for 50 pictures. Mainly because I still haven’t deleted some
videos and pics from parties. I was goin to use them all. We got in the car and
went to Monique’s office. I know I was easily doing about 150-160 mph on
average. I’m sure I topped out at about 210. I was on a mission.
We
got there in half the time. I parked right outside the building. I put a couple
quarters in the parking meter and helped Tierra out of her seat belt. I took
her hand and we walked into the building. We approached the lobby secretary.
“Where
is Monique at right now?” I asked the lobby secretary.
“She’s
currently in the conference room on the 4th floor with Mr. Williams
and Robert Hughes. Do you want me to call and tell her you’re here?”
“No,
thank you. I want to surprise her. Could you watch my daughter for me?”
“No
problem.”
“Thank
you, baby girl.”
In
the conference room, Monique, Rob and Mr. Williams were talking.
“So
that’s the plan for next month. You two will be known across the fashion
world.” He sipped some more wine. “What do y’all think?”
“Works
for me. How bout you, Monique?” Rob said.
“Ok.”
She said.
“Good.
I’mma go to my office and get the paperwork for ya, email some of the board
members, and some otha long process stuff. Y’all can stay here or go home. I’ll
call when I need ya.”
The
way he said it was like he was hinting at something. Like a hidden message to
utilize the time I’m gone to do freaky shit. Point is, he got up and left the
room.
“I
guess we’re goin to be around each otha a lot.” Rob said.
“Yea.”
“What’s
wrong?”
“I
don’t want what happened in D.C. to ever happen again.” She stood up and got on
top of him. “Unless I initiate it.” They started kissing.
“What
about your husband?” He asked.
“I
love Kenny with all my heart. I’m not goin to leave him. I just neva
experienced it with anotha man before. It feels so different.”
“Better?”
“Different.”
They
started kissing again. He got up and lied her down across the table.
I
got off the elevator and took my time to find the room. I wanted to be sure
that they were doin somethin. I looked for the conference room and found it. I
looked through the window and saw exactly what I expected to see. He was porkin
my wife. Nowhere near as good as me, but enough for her to enjoy it. I took as
many pictures as possible. I decided to text them to Will. I went back
downstairs.
“Cha’mon,
Tierra, let’s go.” I took her hand and we started to walk out the building. I
thought about it and turned around. “Are you married?” I asked the lobby
secretary.
“No,
sir.” She replied.
“Please,
call me Kenny.” I looked at Tierra. “Wait here, sweetie.” I walked back to the
lobby secretary. “What’s your name?” I asked her.
“Eve.”
She said with a little shyness.
“Well,
I’mma get straight to the point. I think you’re a beautiful woman with a
fantastic body.”
“Thank
you.” She smiled in flattery.
“Since
I’m going to be a single man very soon, I would like to take you to dinner and
then back to my place for the best sex you’ll ever have in your life. Does that
intrigue you?” She looked around and then leaned towards me.
“More
than anything.” She gave me a sexy ass look. I smiled at her, returning with a
sexy look.
“Go
ahead and put your number in this phone so we can make it happen.” I handed her
my phone and watched her enter her info. “Would you also be interested in a job
with SJ Enterprise?” She stopped what she was doing and looked at me.
“Are
you serious?”
“Serious
enough to make an offer for you right now. I need a night shift secretary when
I work long hours. What do you work here?”
“Monday
thru Friday, 8 to 5.” She replied.
“How
much an hour?”
“13.”
“I
can offer you $100K a year by just working on call.”
“Oh
my god!!! Are you serious?!” She expressed in excitement. “I don’t know if I
deserve your kindness.”
“Walk
out with me right now and the offer is yours.”
“That’s
it?”
“That
is it. We don’t have to do anything tonight.”
“What
if I want to?” She asked.
“Who
am I to say no?” I said, smiling.
She
looked around again. She finished putting her info in my phone and handed it to
me. I watched her as she grabbed her stuff.
“When
will I start?” She asked as we started walking.
“When
I call you. I will need you to fill out a few documents, so come to my office
tomorrow.”
“I
still can’t believe this is happening.”
“Believe
it, baby girl.”
“I
so want to fuck you right now!” She declared.
“Well,
not in front of my daughter. I’ll come by after she’s sleep.”
“I
will be waiting for your call.”
“Glad
to hear it.” I took Tierra’s hand and we walked out the building.
The
next morning, I woke up to find Monique lying next to me. I slipped from under
her and went into the bathroom. I stared in the mirror for a little while. I
looked at my body in the reflection and noticed a small hickie on my neck. I
started smiling. Man did I enjoy Eve last night. I really look forward to
tapping that on all late nights at work. The thought made me laugh a little
bit.
I
shook it off and started washing up and getting dressed. After I finished, I woke
Tierra up.
“Wake
up, princess; you have to go to the hospital.”
She
started rubbing her eyes and got up. I ran her bath water and helped her
undress. When she got in, I decided to wash her so we can move thangs along. I
got her out, dried her off, and helped her get dressed. We were gone and out 20
mins before her appointment. We got to the hospital 5 til.
“Mr.
Johnson, your mother is waiting in room 245.”
“Thank
you.” I picked Tierra up. She was still kinda sleepy. She lied her head down on
my shoulder. We got to room 245 and waited. Ma came in moments later.
“Hey,
Kenny.” She said.
“Hey
Ma.”
“How’s
my granddaughter?” Tierra didn’t say anything.
“Like
85% sleep.” I replied.
“Awww.
Well, Tierra let me explain what’s goin to happen. I have to draw some blood to
make sure you’re still healthy and then give you a few shots, ok?” She nodded.
“I’mma
be right here, Tierra.”
I
sat down and held her in my arms. Ma took her right arm and a needle. Had
Tierra been fully awake, she would have been scared out her mind. Just like me,
she’s afraid of needles.
“Were
you doin a full check-up or just blood test and shots?”
“I
can go with full.”
“Ok.”
She gave Tierra her shots and then checked everything else. It all took 10
mins. “Go ahead and wait in the break room. I’ll let ya know what her results
are.”
“Thanks
Ma.” I carried her into the break room and sat down. We saw a puzzle on the
table and started working it. I then saw someone walk in front of the door.
“Wait here, sweetie. Work the puzzle.” I sat her down and went after the person
I saw. “SYDNEY
“Kenny?”
She said softly. She took a real hard look at me, not believing her eyes. “KENNY!!!”
She screamed. We ran up to each other and gave each otha a big hug.
“Damn,
it’s good to see you. It’s been so long.” I said.
“That
it has. I wasn’t expectin to see you like this.”
“Damn,
let me look at you. Good lord, you’ve really grown.” She had everything.
Definitely the most gorgeous woman I’ve seen. I think I say that too often.
Well, this is definitely the one time that statement is absolutely true. “Why
you stop callin me?”
“It
just happened. Why you stop callin me?”
“It
just happened.” We hugged again, laughing about that. “How have you been?”
“So-so.
How bout you?”
“So-so.”
“Congratulations
on your marriage.”
“Yea,
well, that may not be anymore.” I said.
“Why
you say that?”
“Long
story. How bout you? Did you ever get married?”
“Nah.
I was engaged, but things didn’t quite work out. I caught him havin sex with
his secretary on our anniversary.” She said so nonchalant.
“Damn.”
“Where’s
Will?”
“He
should be here soon. His daughter has an appointment.”
“Speaking
of daughter, where’s yours?”
“In
the break room. Cha’mon, I’ll introduce you.” I took her hand and led her into
the break room. “Tierra, I want you to meet an old friend of mine. Tierra, this
is Sydney Sydney
“Hi,
Sydney
“Hey,
Tierra. How old are you?”
“4.”
“You’re
tall for a 4 year old.”
“Daddy
says its good genetics. He thinks I’ll probably be about 6ft tall but I think
I’ll max out at 5’8.”
“Wow,
5’10. That’s still pretty tall.” She looked at me. “She’s smart and adorable.
Just like her father.”
“I
try.” I looked at Tierra, “how far are you on that puzzle?”
“Done.”
I looked at it and then showed Sydney
“Her
talents neva end.”
“That’s
amazing.” Sydney
“So
how long have you been back in Cleveland
“Just
a couple days.”
“What
brings you here?”
“I
miss my home.”
“You
shoulda neva left.”
“You’re
right about that.”
“We
should really get together and catch up.” I suggested.
“Definitely.
Here’s my new cell phone number. Call me.”
“I
will.” Monique then came in the room. She didn’t look too happy, being I had a
card in my hand with Sydney
“What’s
goin on here?” Monique asked.
“Nothin.”
I said as I put the card in my pocket.
“Who
the hell are you?” She asked Sydney
“Sydney
“Best
friend? Well, I’m his wife.” Monique said.
“Maybe
I should go.” Sydney
“Maybe
you should.” Monique agreed.
“Hol up, don’t leave yet. Could you watch Tierra
for me?”
“Yea.”
“Mo,
outside.” Monique turned around and walked out. I followed her and approached
her. “What the hell is your problem?”
“I
saw you take the number she gave you and put it in your pocket.”
“And?
Sydney
“What
makes you say that?”
“Don’t
worry, that will be explained in due time.” I then heard my name and looked at
the TV above our head.
“Sources
say that the woman stating the claim will remain unidentified, but it’s been
confirmed that the baby’s daddy is Kenny Johnson. Tests have proved so and if
you do the calculations that’s tellin you that Kenny has been messin around on
his wife, Monique. We’ll keep you posted as more develops.”
I
looked at Monique and saw tears come down her cheek. I didn’t say a word. I
left the hospital and rushed over to Candi’s house. I banged on her door
repeatedly. She opened it. I rushed in and slammed her door.
“Why
you lie to the world about a baby?” I demanded to know.
“It’s
no lie. There is a baby.” She replied in fear.
I then heard a crying baby coming from her
room. I ran into the room and looked at the baby. When I saw it, I couldn’t
believe my eyes. He looked just like me. I sat on the bed in shock. I then
noticed an empty container.
“What
the hell?” I said to myself. I picked it up and read it. “Ginod? I know this
stuff.” I got up and showed it to Candi. “So that’s how you been doin it?”
“I
don’t know what you’re talkin bout.” She crossed her arms, staring into my
eyes.
“Stop
the bullshit. Ginod is a drug that is commonly used to paralyze the mind so the
body can react to its normal instincts. Can be inhaled, drank, or shot directly
into the blood stream. It can also be transferred by a kiss. You knew that if
my mind was out of the way, you could do whateva to me. You drugged me from the
start.”
I
threw the empty container at the wall. The shattering glass sound made her
jump. I saw tears come down her face. I took a couple deep breaths to calm
down. I then noticed a picture on her nightstand. I picked it up.
“How
do you know my brother?” I asked calmly. She looked up at me. “HOW DO YOU KNOW
MY BROTHA?” I yelled.
“I’m
engaged to him.” She replied.
I
looked at her, wanting to slap her, but instead sat down in awe and frustration.
I then made a decision. I pulled my gun out and held it in my hand, resting it
on my knee. I looked at her as I tapped the gun on my knee.
“This
is what you’re goin to do. You’re goin to tell me exactly what the hell is goin
on and you’re goin to tell me NOW!” I had my finger on the trigger and slowly
started to point it towards her.
“Ok,
ok…I’ll tell you.” She sat down and buried her face in her hands. She took a
deep breath. “My name is Giovanni Orion. Most of the things I told you are
true. I’ve been in Cleveland
“Why
are you doin this to my brotha?”
“It’s
not somethin I wanted to do. I got caught up with the wrong crowd, did some bad
things.”
“That’s
still not answering my question.”
“Last
year, I landed my dream job downtown. I had the resume for it, and it looked as
if I was goin to get hired. Then somethin happened. A person very close to the
management at the company found out about me and my relationship with KJ. He
found out my background and was threatening to tell KJ about a certain
particular incident if I didn’t cooperate with what he wanted.”
“Which
is what?”
“He
hated the person his daughter married. He wanted to break them up as best he
could. When I realized it was you and what I had to do, I tried my hardest to
get out of it, but he was moments away from tellin KJ.”
“Hol
up, Mr. Williams is behind this whole thing.”
“Yes.
He wanted me to have sex with you, fake the DNA test of my son, and everything
else was goin to be up to him. I knew from the first day I met you I would have
to drug you. He supplied that. He set Robert and Monique together because they
used to date in the past.”
“What
the hell?” I scratched my head with the gun in mad confusion. It was a stupid
plan. “What did you do that was so bad?”
“Promise
me you won’t tell KJ.”
“Iight.”
I sat up and looked into her eyes, not sure what I was going to hear.
“Remember
the incident that happened to KJ 3 years ago?”
“Yea,
someone shot him that night of our boy’s birthday party.”
“Well,
I was dating the man that shot him. I helped him set that up and followed KJ to
the spot. When KJ was alone, I called my boyfriend and made the hit. One night,
my boyfriend hit me, so I helped KJ plot on him, but neva told him what I’ve
done. During that time, I got to know KJ and really liked him. We ended up
getting to know each other real well and started dating. I kept that secret
inside me, afraid that he would leave me or kill me.”
“Well,
I can’t honestly say how he would feel and don’t blame you for not taking any
chances. That hit almost ended his career. It really set him back.”
“I
know. I really love him, Kenny. I don’t want that to get back to him. I was
willing to do anything to stay with this man. I’m sorry about messing things up
with your wife.”
“Don’t
worry bout it.” I told her.
“I
think I caused enough damage,” she declared, “I’m no longer playin this game.
I’ll just tell KJ the truth.”
“Look,
if KJ breaks up with you, call me. I’ll talk to him. I doubt he would, he’s a
forgive-and-forget type of guy.”
“Thanks,
I shoulda just told him from the get-go.”
“Yea,
it would have been better that way. Then again, with me not on your side, I
don’t think he’d forgive you.” I stood up and put my gun away. “Sorry for
pullin out a gun. To be honest, it’s not loaded.” I smiled, as did she.
“It’s
ok. I’m still alive. I know there’s nothin I can do to repair the damage I’ve
caused, but I’m willin to try.”
“Ummm…..”
I thought about that and started smiling, “No damage. If anything, I may be
thanking you. So that baby in there, he’s actually KJ’s?”
“Yes.
That’s your nephew. His name is Brandon
I
went back into the room and looked at my nephew. I smiled and just looked at
him sleep. I walked to the door and looked back at her.
“Let’s
forget everything we’ve done and establish a new relationship.” I told her.
“I
agree.” She smiled, as did I.
I
turned around and left. I had to think of what to do next. I had a feeling my
relationship was shot. I thought about it as I walked to the car and drove back
to the hospital. Sydney
“Where
you goin?” I asked her.
“I’m
leavin. The last thing I need is BS from your wife.” She replied.
“Sid,
don’t leave.”
“You’ll
see me again.”
“How
bout tonight?”
“What?”
“Let
me take you out for dinner.”
“I
don’t know.”
“You
of all people know I don’t like to beg.” I got down on my knees. “This will be
the only time you’ll see me beg.”
“Okay.”
She said, smiling in embarrassment. I jumped to my feet.
“Excellent.
I’ll call you and let you know what time.”
“Lookin
forward to it.” I gave her a hug.
“I’m
glad you’re back.” I whispered.
“So
am I.” She whispered back to me. Little did I know, Monique was watching the
entire time. We stood in the parking lot, hugging, for at least two minutes. “I
gotta go.”
“Yea.”
“Call
me. I’m lookin forward to catchin up.”
“There’s
no chance I’ll forget.” I declared.
I
let her go and held her hands, looking into her eyes. My best friend has
finally returned.
“I’ll
see you tonight.”
She
kissed her fingers and placed em on my lips. I watched her walk away for a
minute then went into the hospital. Monique was giving me an “absolute zero”
stare. That’s the coldest stare anyone can ever give ya. Keep that in mind.
While she stared, I looked at her with no emotion.
“What
was that all about?” She asked.
“It
was about two best friends setting up plans to try and catch up.” I replied.
“Let’s
get an understanding. I don’t want her touching or even around my daughter.”
“Please,
Monique.” I walked passed her to get Tierra.
“Don’t
just brush me off, Kenny! Tell me what the hell is goin on!”
“As
far as what?” I kept walking.
“You
and this person stating to have your baby.”
“That’s
a lie.”
“Yea,
so some random woman comes out and says she has your child?”
“That’s
bout the jist of it.” I went into the break room. Ma and Tierra were playing.
“Thanks for watchin her, Ma.”
“Not
a problem. Always enjoy lookin afta my granddaughter.” Ma said.
“Kenny,
I need to talk to you.” Monique stated.
“Wait
til we get home.” I picked Tierra up and gave Ma a kiss. “I’ll call you lata on
tonight.”
“Okay.
Here go her results.” She handed me a folder. “I think you’ll find a lot of
that interesting.”
“Iight,
I’ll look into it.” I assured her. I picked up the puzzle she was workin on.
“Definitely gotta put it in her scrap book.”
We
walked out the room and to the car. Monique sat in the car with her arms across
her chest. I played music to not let her get to me. When we got home, Tierra
was sleep. I carried her to her room and lied her down in her bed. I then
closed her door. I went into our room, closed our door and turned on the sound
blocker.
“You
ready to talk now?” Monique asked with an attitude.
“Dish
the BS.”
“I
know you cheated on me. I wanna know how many times and with who!”
“Same
goes for you.” I stated.
“That’s
easy, I neva cheated on you.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
“So
what’s the next lie you gon swing my way? Tierra ain’t my daughter?”
“Ain’t
any one lyin.” She sounded so sure. “How bout you admit that you cheated on
me?”
“Iight,
I cheated on you 3 times, same person each time. All 3 times, I was drugged so
not only was it against my will, but I might as well consider it rape.” I
became a lil more emotional. “Your FATHER is the one behind that. Not only did
HE blackmail the woman that was involved, but HE supplied the drug.”
“That’s
up surd, why would he do somethin like that?”
“Think
about it. Maybe cause he doesn’t like me or my family. He’s been jealous of us
since the get-go. He gets embarrassed by my father at least once a quarter. But
it doesn’t matter what I did. I had no control over my situation. YOU had total
control over yours!!”
“Kenneth
Day’quan Johnson, I DID NOT cheat on you!!!”
“BULLSHIT!!!!
You did it on Tierra’s birthday while in D.C. I tried callin you, no answer,
then you turn the phone off! 2nd time was in the conference room the
night you got called in!” I yelled.
“How
dare you make accusations like that.” I showed her the pictures I took.
“Lie
to me again so I can have a reason to slap the taste out your mouth.” She
looked at the pictures and had tears in her eyes. I turned my back to her.
“Baby,
I’m sorry.” She said, crying. “I don’t know how it happened.”
“You
were horny and he was there. That’s how it happened.” She wrapped her arms
around me.
“I’m
so sorry, baby.”
“It’s
too late for that.” I walked out the room and went into Tierra’s, locking the
door behind me. I lied in the bed with my sleeping daughter. “Damn, baby girl,
I don’t know what’s goin to happen. Things are bout to change, but I don’t know
how much.” I held her hand. “I’m goin to make sure that no matter what, you
will be in my possession.” I kissed her cheek and wrapped my arm around her. I
fell asleep moments later.
It
was afta 5 when Tierra woke me up.
“Daddy,
are you and Mommy getting a divorce?” She asked. It was like she knows whats
goin on.
“I’on
know, sweetie. Things are not looking good right now.”
“I
hope y’all can work it out. I don’t want to be a statistic.”
“You
know nuttin bout statistics.”
“Uh-huh,
a lot of people have divorced with children. About 76% of marriages divorce
within the first 5 years of marriage.”
“Iight,
so you watch the news. Don’t worry, baby, everything will be fine.”
“Okay.”
She got up and lied down across my chest, facing the TV. “I don’t want you to
go away.”
“I’m
not goin anywhere. No ones taking you away from me, princess.”
“Good.
May I share a secret with you?” She looked up at me.
“What’s
on yo mind, lil bit?”
“If
I had to choose, I’d choose you without second thoughts. Does that make me a
bad person?”
“Nah,
baby girl, that doesn’t make you a bad person.”
“Mommy
hurt me when she wasn’t here for my birthday. It’s the 2nd one she
missed and I’ve only had 4. I don’t mean to sound selfish, Daddy, but for the
day I was born, I want to spend it with my mother and father….the people that
created me….the people I love more than anything in the world.” I hugged her. I
could feel her tears on my biceps. She was really hurting from that.
“You’re
right, baby girl. You’re not selfish. Your birthday is your day and we both
should be wit you.”
“You’ve
succeeded in doin that, so I feel I’d be happier with you.” I kissed her
forehead.
“We’ll
see if things will come to dat kind of situation.” I changed the channel to
Cartoon Network. We started watchin cartoons for a few hours. “I got an idea.
How would you like to stay at your grandparents tonight?”
“Love
to.” She said, smiling.
“Iight,
get dressed, pack a bag, and be ready in two hours.”
“How
long am I staying?”
“However
long you want.” I got up and left the room. I called a restaurant to get
reservations. Afta that, I called Sydney
“That
works.” She agreed.
“Did
you want me to pick you up?”
“Nah,
I’ll drive. Meet you dare.”
We
hung up wit each otha. I went into my room. Monique was gone. I didn’t care at
the time. I looked for somethin to wear. The Flow is pretty formal, so I had to
dress up, which I don’t mind. I took a shower and got dressed. I looked to see
what Tierra packed.
“How
long you stayin?” I asked.
“A
week.” I grabbed her bag and counted how many outfits she had.
“1…2…3…4…5…6…7…8…9…10…that’s
my girl. You’re all set.” I carried her and her bag and we left the house.
“You
look and smell nice, Daddy.” Tierra complimented.
“Thank
you, princess.” I headed to my parents house. Ma met me at the door.
“Bout
time you let me watch Tierra.” Ma said.
“Opportunity .”
Where
you goin lookin all good?”
“Dinner.
Sydney and I got catchin up to do.”
“That’s
good. Tell Sydney
“Will
do.” I looked at Tierra. “Be good, have fun, and if ya need me, call me.”
“I
will.” I kissed her.
“Love
you.”
“Love
you too.” I put her down and watched her go in the house.
“Take
care of my baby.” I told Ma.
“Boy,
get outta hea.” I hugged and kissed her. “Have a good time.”
“I
will.” I got in the car and drove to The Flow. I pulled up for Valet Parking. I
looked around and saw Sydney
“You
look good.” She said to me.
“So
do you.” I replied. We walked into the restaurant to my reserved section. I
acted as a pure gentlemen. After we ordered what we wanted, it was time to
talk:
“Why’d
you move?” I asked right off the back.
“You’re
not wastin any time.” She said.
“Do
I ever?”
“No,
can’t say you do. Well, simply put, you know I was livin with my mom at the
time when I was stayin here. She kinda ran into money problems and among otha
thangs.”
“If
she needed money, I meet her needs.”
“The
money really wasn’t the reason. Remember when I stayed at your house for a
week?”
“Yea,”
I smiled, “it was spring break.”
“You
remember why?”
“You
neva told me and I neva asked.”
“My
mom got arrested for use and possession.” She took a sip of her Pepsi. “Your
dad found out and made a deal with the judge to hold on to us because we were
bout to go to a foster home. He offered to watch over us, but the judge talked
to my dad beforehand.”
“That’s
how he knew where to find you. He came like at the end of spring break.”
“Yea,
that’s why we had to go to LA. But we had so much fun.” Our food arrived and a
bottle of champagne. The waiter poured some in our glasses.
“A
quick toast.” I said. “To our friendship.”
“May
it last forever.” We toasted and sipped.
“So
how long were you engaged?” I asked.
“Bout
3 months.”
“How
long were y’all dating?”
“3
years. We were in the same class at SJ University of LA. I was goin for my
doctor degree. We started talkin and then things got on an intimate level and
boom.”
“You
succeeded in getting your degree, right?”
“No
doubt. That’s why I came back. Your mother is goin to hire me. I had my
physical this morning.” She took anotha sip of champagne. “So how long were you
engaged?”
“Not
long. Now that I look back, I prolly should of paced myself.” I looked at my
ring for a moment. “It just didn’t end up like I had hoped.”
“You
do have an adorable daughter.”
“True.”
“You
know, since the day you stopped callin me, I kept a close eye on you. I watched
all your games, wishin I was there. I missed talkin to you, but lost your
number. I needed your guidance on so many things. I also wished I was there for
you. I feel bad, but would have felt worse if you were on the verge of dyin and
I not see you. I valued our friendship and want to be back to what we were. You
were my best friend and I was yours. We used to talk for hours.”
“Yea,
four way convo; you, me, Will and Candace. We be rollin the entire time.”
“Y’all
are too funny.”
“Y’all
used to say some off the wall stuff.”
“Not
more than y’all.”
“True.
Where is Candace anyway?”
“You
don’t know? Her and Will went out tonight.”
“Say
word.”
“Yep.
She told me earlier today.”
“Well,
Will prolly would of told me if I asked.” I stated.
“Yea,
it’s good that y’all are still close.”
“Always.
So how do you suggest we get things back to the way things were?”
“We
spend time together. The four of us, since Chris and Dre have football.”
“Do
you still play basketball?” I asked her.
“Yea,
I had an opportunity to go into the WNBA, but I injured my knee my senior
year.”
“Damn,
how’s it holdin up?”
“Better.
I need to go back to the gym.”
“Will
and I are startin our workout program. You’re free to join us.”
“Sounds
good. Candace said she wouldn’t go unless I did, so I don’t want to keep holdin
her down. She was almost drafted, but pulled out when I got injured.”
“So
that’s the agreement y’all have?”
“Yea.
I feel it’s best that way.” She looked down at her hands and then back at me.
“Kenny, I…” At that moment, my phone rang. I looked at it to see who it was.
“Hold
that thought.” I answered my phone. “Yes, princess?”
“I’m
bout to go to sleep and I wanted to tell you goodnight.” Tierra said.
“Goodnight,
Netta. Sweet dreams.”
“Night,
night, Daddy. Love you.”
“Love
you too. Bye princess.”
“Bye.”
I hung up and looked at Sydney
“You’re
real close with your daughter, aren’t you?”
“That’s
my heart. We do a lot together and are hardly separated.”
“How
does Monique handle that?”
“Not
too well. What were you…” My phone rang again. “Damn, speak of the devil.”
“Answer
it. I can wait. You have to talk to her eventually.” I thought about it and
answered.
“What
do you want?”
“I
need to talk to you.” She said.
“I’m
kinda busy right now. Besides, I have nuttin to say to you.”
“Please,
it’s important.”
“Where
are you?”
“At
home.” I paused a moment to think about it.
“Iight,
I’ll be there in an hour.”
“Thank
you. I love you.”
“It’s
on.” I hung up. “I really don’t feel like talkin to her.”
“You
might as well. She’s your wife. You should try to stay with her.”
“I
don’t know if that’s possible.”
“You
cheated on her, she cheated on you. Even.”
“I
was drugged, she wasn’t. Not even.”
“You
have a point, but she is sorry.”
“Yea,
that I found out.”
“She’s
scared of losin you. I would be too.” She realized what she said. “I mean if I
was her.” She took a sip of her drink and made a face like she just thought of
something. “Why are you taking this so badly anyway?”
“What
do you mean?” I asked.
“Well,
you neva really showed so much hatred towards someone, especially a female. I
understand she cheated on you and everything, but why are you so willing to end
a 4 year marriage so quickly?”
“I
have my reasons.”
“I
would like to hear them.” I took a deep breath and drank the rest of my
Courvoisier.
“I
sensed some thangs for a while. I thought maybe I was just being paranoid.
Maybe I wanted out of this marriage so bad that I was goin to see things.”
“Why
do you think you wanted out of the marriage?” She asked.
“Missing
my old life.”
“Kenny?”
“What?”
“I
know you don’t think I believe that. Come on, tell me.”
“Damn,
you don’t forget a thang. You still know me.” I smiled and motioned to the
waiter to fill up my glass. “Iight, this is how it went.”
KENNY’S FLASHBACK: 22 AUGUST 2106
“It was the day after Tierra’s birthday last year. She
was sleep in her room when Monique finally came home from her little conference
or whatever she went to at that time. The first thang she did when she came in
was go to Tierra’s room. She kissed her and apologized for missing her
birthday. I stood at the doorway without her knowing I was there. I listened to
her tell Tierra something that will always stay with me.
“Tierra, I’m so sorry I missed your birthday.” She
began. “Mommy is doing big things. I’m trying to get in the work force, but at
the same time trying to balance my marriage with your father and my
relationship with you.” She took her hand. “Things aren’t going as well as I
thought. I thought being married to THE Kenny Johnson would be absolutely a
dream come true. I don’t know what it is, its like I want more. I’m not
understanding any of it. He’s the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me.
Yet, it’s like I don’t kno what to do. Last night I did the very thing that I
didn’t think I could ever do. It felt good, but at the same time, it wasn’t as
fulfilling as Kenny. I don’t know what to do.”
The entire time, I thought she was talking to Tierra.
Come to find out, the moment she took Tierra’s hand was when she was actually
on the phone with someone else. I didn’t kno who it was, but I do know that
something happened while she was away. That day, I kept an eye out for signs
like this one.
KENNY’S FLASHBACK: 12 DECEMBER 2106
Another incident that happened last year was during
the winter. Tierra was at my father’s, so I took the opportunity to have a
heart to heart with lil miss sunshine. It was during dinner that I was goin to
do this.
“How’s work going?” I asked her.
“Not too bad. Think I’ll be able to move pretty good
in the ranks.” She replied.
“Are the people treating you good?”
“Yea. I’m like a princess or something.”
“Well, your father is the main guy and all.”
“Maybe.” Silent for a lil while. Then I came wit it.
“So how was your lil conference back in August. I
never got to ask you about that.”
“Hectic. All work and no play made it a very boring
trip.” She replied.
“What about the one you went to last month?”
“That one wasn’t too bad. Did a lot of work but also
had time to enjoy my time there.”
I looked at her and paid attention to how she was
acting. She’s usually not this way. So………non-talkative. I continued eating and
figured I’d be able to pry it out of her.
“So you’re telling me that nothing special happened?”
I asked her.
She looked as if she was thinking about it. “Nothing.”
She continued eating. “Enough about me, how bout you. What has been goin on
with everything?”
“Good. Still undefeated and dominating. Dad is talking
about getting a few deals for us worked up.”
Changing the subject and deflecting……not cool.
Normally I would rely on some other means to get the truth out. I wasn’t able
to sense things like that at this point in time. That was until the last day I
suspected her.
KENNY’S FLASHBACK: 15 MARCH 2107
I found myself in a difficult position. With the
playoffs coming up, I didn’t pay too much attention to Monique. In fact, I
wasn’t at home that much. I came home one night and saw someone just leaving
the house. He was someone light skinned, suave looking nigga. I asked around to
see exactly whom was he here to see. It was now time to ask Monique.
“Baby, who was that that just left?” I asked her.
“A friend of mine. He was bringing me something that I
left at work.” She replied.
I started getting undressed, but as I was walking
around, I noticed a few things. One, essence was burning. Not a big flag, but
it did make me think.
“What’s with the essence?” I asked her.
“That trash you took out when you left smelled really
bad. Figured I burn some to get rid of the smell.” Good answer, I guess. Next
thing I noticed was the bed was undone.
“You just wake up not too long ago?”
“Yea. I was really tired.” That would explain her side
not mine. “I was also about to wash the sheets.” Hmm, I wonder why.
The third and actual flag raiser was a piece of a
wrapper on the floor. I looked at the wrapper and analyzed it. I came to the
conclusion that it was part of a condom. I then decided to try my new talent
out.
“Come here, baby.” I said.
She came up to me. I started kissing her and
undressing her. I was actually surprised that she even wanted me. I lied her
down on the bed and touched her. That’s when I felt it.
“What’s wrong?” She asked, noticing my look.
“I need you to be honest wit me. Can you do that?”
“Of course.”
“Have you ever cheated on me?” She looked in my eyes
and calmly said……
“Never.” She put her hand on my face and said, “I
couldn’t bring myself up to it. You’re everything I want and I don’t want any
one but you inside me………unless its anotha child.”
PRESENT:
“I
looked at her and believed it. There was nothing in her eyes that threw a flag,
ya know? I decided to let it go.”
“What
about what you sensed?” Sydney
“Yea,
but I wasn’t really 100% too sure. Maybe my stress level….my jealousy…all that
may have been a contributing factor to why I saw what I saw.” I took another
sip of my drink. “At least that’s what I thought at the time. Now that I look
back, I know she cheated on me. Just like she did now. I don’t know if it’s wit
the same person, but I do know that there’s no way I intend on working things
out with her.”
“I
don’t think you should do that.”
“What
are you suggesting I do?”
“Talk
to her. Listen to her and try to forgive her. For the sake of your daughter.”
“You’re
right.” The waiter came with the check. I looked at it and put in a $100.
“Of
course I’m right.” We stood up and walked out the restaurant. “By the way, how
much was the check?”
“$63.37.
I had nuttin smaller than a bill.” I replied.
“Aren’t
you expectin change?”
“Nope.”
“You
haven’t changed.” She claimed. I smiled in admiration.
“Why
should I?” I said, sarcastically.
I
walked her to her car and opened her door. She got in, started it, rolled her
window down and I closed her door.
“Call
me tomorrow and let me know how it goes.”
“Fa
sho, I’ll let ya know.”
“Hope
so. Also, let me know when y’all start workin out.”
“I
will.”
“See
ya lata.”
“Later.”
I watched her pull out.
When
she was out of sight, I got in my car and drove home. Monique was sitting on
the couch. I sat in my chair and looked at her.
“Please
don’t say anything til I’m done.” She began. “I should have just admitted it,
but I was afraid. You mean everything to me. All day I’ve been sitting here,
tryin to figure out why I did what I did. No answer came. All I can say is I’m
sorry and I promise it’ll neva happen again. I was thinking bout the first day
we were together... The day in my room... When I showed you all my prized
valuables... I love you so much, Kenny, and don’t want to be with anyone but
you and only you. You’re my world. I’d do anything to make up for my mistake. I
love you with all my heart and willin to keep you in my life no matter what. We
have to stay together for the sake of Tierra and our baby.”
“Yea,
you’re right. Tierra is the most important reason…..whoa, whoa, whoa, what baby?”
“I
went to the hospital today. I’m pregnant. I wanted to tell you now before
things get way out of hand.”
“Anotha
baby? That’s slick.” I got up and hugged her. We started kissing.
“So do
you forgive me?”
“Yea.”
We continued kissing and ended up makin love for the first time in a long time.
CHAPTER VI
DEPRESSION & REVIVAL
The
next morning, I called Sydney
“Hey,
Kenny, how’d it go?” She asked.
“We’re
good. She’s pregnant.”
“Really?”
She sounded more in doubt than happy.
“Yea.”
“Kenny,
I’d look into that.”
“Why?”
“She
may be just sayin that to get you back.”
“Nah,
she wouldn’t play like that.”
“Yea,
you’re prolly right.”
“By
the way, we’re startin our workout today. Wanna get in on that?”
“Works
fa me.”
“Iight,
come thru at about 11.”
“What’s
your address?”
“14759 SJ Lane
“I’ll
be there.”
“That’s
what’s good. I’mma get some sleep. See you in a few hours.”
“It’s
on.”
I
hung up and looked at my sleeping wife. I thought about what Sydney
At
11, I waited outside for Sydney Sydney
“Iight,
I’mma help you strengthen your knee.” I said. We walked to the leg exercise
equipment area. I spotted her as she worked out her knee.
“It
still hurts.” She said.
“It
will for a while, but you will be back to normal in a few days.”
“Days?”
“Yea,
my program takes days.”
“Wow.
I thought I was lookin at weeks.”
“Dad
taught me all the necessary stuff about comin back from a knee injury. I hurt
mine a few times throughout my career.” Sydney
“Kenny,
there’s somethin I think you should know.”
“What
it is?”
“I
looked up Monique’s pregnancy.”
“What?
I told you, she wouldn’t lie to me and that was the bottom line.”
“I
know, but I found it odd. I’m your best friend, I’m lookin out fa ya cuz I
really care about you.” I took a deep breath.
“What
you find out?” I asked.
“She
is pregnant.”
“Told
you.”
“But
it’s not yours.”
“Say
huh?” I looked at her in shock. My body froze up.
“A
DNA test was conducted on her fetus. It didn’t match with yours.”
“You
can’t be serious.”
“I
really wish I wasn’t, but if you don’t believe me look at her records. Not to
mention your mother didn’t conduct the test.” My whole thought process stopped.
I couldn’t believe what was just told to me. I looked to the left.
“Come
on, let’s go to the punching bag.”
“Uh-oh.”
She said.
“Don’t
worry, I’m not goin to hurt myself.” We went to the punching bag. Sydney
“Ouch.
What the hell is in here?”
“I
don’t know, let’s find out.” I started releasing all my anger and hurt into the
punching bag. Will and Candace saw me. Will ran ova to me. He pulled me back.
“Dawg,
that’s not just any punching bag. That bag is for hitting with one of our weapons,
not hands.” He told me.
The
bag busted open and started dumping some kind of maerial. Never seen it before
in my life. My hands were dripping blood. Sydney
“Kenny,
let’s take you home.” Sydney
“Nah,
she’s at work.” He replied.
“Good,
let’s go Kenny.”
They
helped me to my room. The gently laid me down on the bed. I looked at the
ceiling in a zoned state. My mind was gone. My sense of humor, sense of
reality, common sense, rationality, and mercy….my entire mental state
dissipated and turned me into a zombie. I couldn’t tell if I fell asleep, or
passed out, but I remember Monique comin home. It was raining outside, late at
night. I heard Robert and Monique outside. I don’t know how or if I had a
feeling they were outside. I couldn’t tell what was goin on, but I didn’t care.
I had no shirt on, just shorts, socks and shoes. I headed outside with death in
my eyes. When I opened the front door, Monique and Robert were in the car
talkin. I approached the driver side, broke the window, and pulled Robert out
the car.
“Kenny!
Stop!” Monique yelled. I didn’t hear a thing. I slammed Robert against the car.
“You
have now reached the final 5 minutes of your life.” I told him.
“NO,
KENNY!!!” Monique yelled.
She
got out the car and tried to pull me back. I looked at her in the most evil way
possible. It scared the hell out of her. She backed up and let me go. I looked
at Robert with straight eyes of flames.
“Your
countdown starts now!”
I
hit him in the jaw and watched him hit the ground. I kicked him a few times in
the abdomen and head. His pain soothed my soul, but not my desire to kill him.
I picked him up and rammed his head into his car. I let him breath for a
moment, but he used his moment of revival to swing at me. All I did was dodge.
“I
don’t know what your problem is, but you really pissed me off!” He said as he
kept swinging.
“You
really lost your mind.”
I
stuck him in the mouth and then hit him 3 more times in the jaw. That’s when I
really went off. I got on top of him and just wailed on him. I picked him up
off the ground, held him in the air, and threw him on the hood of his car. I
jumped on top of his car, picked him up again, and slammed him on the roof of
his car. I jumped down, opened his car door, pulled his arm down, and slammed
the door on it. He screamed in pain. I looked at my watch. He had 1 minute
remaining. I pulled out a bat from my fountain. I swung and broke his leg. He
rolled off the car, hitting the concrete. I swung 3 more times, hitting his
back. I broke my bat on the last hit. I threw it away and looked back at my
watch. I went to the porch, opened a secret compartment and pulled out my glock
.40. I put a fresh clip in, loaded it, and pointed it directly at Robert. He
turned over and looked at me.
“Please,
have mercy.” He pleaded.
“Mercy
is overrated. I rather serve you a cold dish of revenge.” I pulled the trigger
6 times, unleashing 6 bullets in his chest. I dropped the gun and looked at
Monique. She had her hands covering her mouth as tears fell down her eyes. “You
have 5 seconds to tell me the truth.”
“About
what?”
“Tell
me that’s not my baby in your belly.” Her eyes widened and the tears really
came down. I could tell it was true. “So it’s true.” I walked up to her. “Say
it.” She didn’t say anything. “SAY IT!!!” I yelled.
“It’s
not your baby.” She said, sadly, unhappily, and embarrassed.
“You
lied to me, you played me, and you basically just blew your chance with me.
Have a nice life. From this moment on, you’re no longer allowed in this house.
You don’t live here, you don’t visit here, and as far as I care, it doesn’t
exist to you. I’ll send you your things. I’ll have my lawyer contact yours. I’m
filin for divorce as of tonight. The next time I see you will be in a court
room.” Her crying continued and worsened. “You did this to yourself. Hope you
enjoyed the 5 years we were together. Our future is non-existent. So, you have
20 minutes to get off my property. You have that one car that I got for your
birthday and that’s it. Go upstairs, get your shit and bounce.”
She
looked at me and then ran upstairs. I watched her run away, then looked at
Robert. I decided just to leave him there. I went upstairs and saw Monique
getting her stuff.
“Kenny…”
She began.
“You
say my name again and I swear it will be the last time.” I assured her.
She
looked at me for a lil while then grabbed her bags. She stood in front of me
and looked me in the eyes.
“I
love you.” She whispered.
She
kissed my cheek and walked out. The minute that door closed, tears fell down my
cheek. I released my first true love from my life. I lied back down and stared
at the ceiling. Tears running long side of my face, I still didn’t move.
The
phone rang 3 times that night, 7 times the next day, 10 the day afta, and 20
the day afta that, but I didn’t answer a single call. 4 days in my room; lying
in the same spot; not eating; not drinking; not even sleeping…no visitors, and
no one that even knows my condition. One of those individuals that were callin was
my daughter:
“Grandma,
I’m worried.” She said to Ma. “He always answers my calls. This is not like
him.”
“Don’t
worry, sweetie, your father is probably sleep or busy working out. He may even
be in the shower. He will call you back, don’t worry.” Ma told her.
“Ok.”
She sat down, sad, and watched TV.
The
other individuals callin me were Will and Sydney. I knew they were concerned
about how I was feelin. I heard a car pull into the courtyard.
“Oh
my god!” Sydney
“This
can’t be good.” Candace said.
I
heard them ring the house doorbell. Latoya answered and buzzed them in. They
went up the elevator and met up with Will on my floor. That’s when I heard a
knock.
“Don’t
you have a key?” Sydney
“Yea,
my pass code should still work.”
He
entered his code and in they came. They came to my room and looked at my proned
body.
“Kenny?”
Will called. I didn’t answer or move. “KENNY!!!” He yelled. Still nothin. “If I
didn’t know better, I’d say he ain’t moved in the past four days.”
“Could
y’all wait in the living room. I’mma try to talk to him.” Sydney
“Go
ahead.” Candace said. They closed the door and waited in the living room. Sydney
“Kenny,
it’s me…Sydney.” I didn’t move. “Listen, I know you’re not really in the right
state of mind right now, but you have to bounce back. You can’t shut yourself
out from the rest of the world. You’re needed by so many people; your daughter,
your parents, your brother….even me.” She noticed I didn’t move. “Come back to
us.” She waited a few moments and walked to the door.
“Do
you know how it feels?” I asked. She stopped, turned around and walked back to
me.
“How
what feels?”
“To
have your heart ripped out, stepped on, and burned to ashes.”
“Not
exactly. I can’t say I’ve been that hurt before.”
“I
gave up so much for the last 5 years. I changed my ways, my plans, and my
future. I got away from the life I was in to settle for true happiness. I can’t
say I wasn’t happy the past 5 years, but the way things had to end is not a way
I’m really enjoying.”
“When
did you kill Robert?” She asked.
“That
same night. It was raining. It felt good, but not good enough. He’s not to
blame. I feel sorry for him because he was caught in the wrong relationship.”
“When’s
the court date?”
“It
doesn’t matter. My life is far from being back on track.”
“Kenny,
you have to get out of this place. If you keep thinking bout her, you’re neva
goin to move on.”
“Maybe
I don’t want to move on.” I grabbed the gun from under my pillow and put it to
my head. “Maybe I want things to end right now.”
“KENNY,
NO!!!” I pulled the trigger and nothin happened.
“Yet,
I can’t.”
“Unloaded
gun?”
“Neva . It’s very much loaded. Every time I pull this
trigger, it neva fires. God does not want me to die.” I said. “I’ve tried at
least once every hour. That’s over a 100 times. I tried a different gun, but
still nothin. God has a special design for me and won’t let me die till my task
is done. I don’t want to be here any more.”
“Kenny,
you can’t let a woman affect the rest of your life.”
“Why
not? She brought me down to my lowest point. Me! Kenny Johnson has been reduced
to a crying bitch. So you can’t stand there and tell me how I should feel cuz
you have no damn clue about how I feel.”
“That’s
where you’re wrong. I watched a man I loved for three years have sex with his
secretary on our anniversary night. Come to find out they’ve been doing it
night in and night out for 5 years. She wasn’t just his secretary, but also my
Maid of Honor. Then to go through life having every man treat me like their sex
toy and still have otha hoes on the side. When you have a life like that, then
talk to me.”
“You’re
missing it. She got pregnant by another man, lied and said it was mine, and did
it on our daughter’s birthday. On our daughter’s birthday, Sydney
“Come
on, Kenny.”
She
approached me and helped me get up. She ran a bath for me and helped me get in.
Since she knew I wasn’t goin to clean myself, she turned on the auto clean
system. She then helped me out and helped me get dressed. We then met up wit
Will and Candace in the living room.
“Look,
nigga, you ain’t bout to dwell ova Monique fo the rest of yo life. We is goin
out tonight.” Will told me. We left the room and got into Will’s car. He drove
to my former favorite club. “From what I heard, the past 5 years, this place
has gone from off da chain to off da grid map wit a slap to yo mama.” We walked
into the club and looked around. “Ladies, leave Mr. Johnson to me. We’ll be
good.” They nodded and went to the opposite end of the club. “K-Dawg, it’s time
to unleash the freak.” We walked to the middle of the club. Every girl we
walked by looked at us, even the ones wit a man. This one girl actually
approached me.
“Aren’t
you Kenny Johnson, the sexiest man alive?” She asked me. I didn’t say anything.
“Yes
he is.” Will answered for me.
“The
magazines hold your real looks back. You’re way more sexy in person.” She
looked me up and down. “Care to dance?” Will looked at me and then at her.
“He’d
love to.”
She
pulled me out to the floor and immediately started grindin on me. I had no
control, my body was movin on its own. I danced wit her for a while until she
no longer wanted to dance. She had somethin else on her mind.
“Kenny,
let’s go upstairs and……get to know each otha.” She told me. I didn’t say
anything. She took my hand and led me to the private room. “You used to have a
strong rep, neva thought you were this quiet.” She sat me down in a chair. She
started strippin and givin me a lap dance. Yet, she got nuttin outta me. “I
know what will help.” She unzipped my pants and gave me some fly head. A part
of me returned that died years ago. My eyes opened back up, my heart began
beating again. It was like I was being reborn. I looked down.
“You
know what, I think you done messed wit da wrong one.” I stated.
“What?”
She said.
“I
hope you ain’t doin nuttin tomorrow. You’ll need it to let yo pussy recover.”
“Heard
that before.”
“Done
that before.” I pulled up her skirt, picked her up and put her against the wall.
I banged her back out like I neva did before. When I finished, she couldn’t do
nuttin but sit there.
“Oh
my god! All the rumors are true. You are a god.” She said. “I lost count of how
many orgasms I just had.”
“25.”
I told her. I buttoned my pants and tightened my belt just a tad. “Thank you.”
I took her hand and kissed it.
“Call
me.” She handed me her card. I smiled and left. I went back downstairs and
found Will.
“You
back?” He asked.
“I’m
da man.” I said. I looked around and saw some bisexuals. Two to be exact. “I
got da magic stick.”
I
approached the two ladies, spit a lil talk, slang the flow and befo you know,
dare I go. Both of them comin up to da PR. These two girls were some true
freaks. At first, I wasn’t sure if I could handle em, but I banged day back out
too. I got day numbers and went right back downstairs. Will noticed what was
goin on and found the girls.
“Candace,
Sydney
“What
are you talkin bout?” Candace asked.
“Kenny
has turned into a big hoe.”
“That’s
a redundant word. All niggaz are hoes.”
“He’s
goin to fuck every girl in here.” He bluntly said.
“He
couldn’t.” Sydney
“Oh,
he could.”
“His
game is dat tight?” Candace said.
“Y’all
have no idea.”
“Look
it hea, I ain’t tryin to BS you.” I stated, talkin to dis fine freak from Parma
Hts. “Er’thang you heard bout me is straight true.”
“So
you’re really big?” She asked.
“How
bout you find out?”
She
looked me up and down and followed me to da PR. She was shocked and amazed. It
was a lil too much for her to handle, but she took it like a soldier. I think I
paralyzed 6 girls so far. I kept goin.
“We
gots ta get dis nigga out.” Will said.
“Just
grab him and pull him out.” Sydney
“That’s
pretty much the only way.”
They
crept up on me and grabbed me. They basically pulled me outside and into the
car. I didn’t put up any type of fight. I sat in the back seat, trippin.
“Dawg,
shawty wit da fat ass wanted to bounce on my dick all night. I was like, baby
girl, I gotta save some fo da otha ladies……like the one you lickin. I banged day
back the fuck out like it was nuttin.”
“Kenny,
you’re conversation isn’t really appropriate right now.” Will said.
“My
conversation isn’t appropriate? Where da hell you get yo edumacation from,
Harvard? Appropriate? I’ll tell you what’s appropriate.” I stopped talkin and
looked out the window.
“What’s
appropriate?” Candace asked.
“Say
huh?”
“You
said you’ll tell us what’s appropriate. So, what’s appropriate?”
“Shit,
I’on know. What type of question is that?” Yea, I was definitely trippin. I
continued drinkin my Incredible Hulk and laughin. “I’d like to say that I’m
glad y’all brought me out.”
“I’m
not.” Candace whispered to Will.
When
we got home, Will and Sydney helped me to my room. They helped me into bed and
left me alone.
“I
think I’ll stay wit him tonight.” Sydney
“Good
idea. He’s definitely not takin this well.” Will said.
“I’ll
call if anything happens.”
“Iight.
Have a good night.” Candace said.
They
left and went back to Will’s floor. Sydney
“Aye,
Ma, is Tierra around?” I asked her.
“Baby,
it’s 4 in the morning. That girl is sleep. Where have you been? She’s been
tryin to reach you for the past 4 days.”
“I
know, I’m sorry. I haven’t been feelin too well. I’ll make it up to her. Have
her call me when she wakes up. I have to take care some business.” I told her.
“Iight.
Love you.”
“Love
you too.”
I
hung up and made some otha calls. By 6:30 ,
I made a few deals to have my divorce case hearing at 2. As I was goin to
sleep, Tierra called me.
“Hi,
Daddy.” She said, still sounding happy.
“Hey,
princess.”
“Where
you go? I missed you so much.”
“I
missed you too, lil bit. I haven’t been feelin too well, so I wasn’t able to
talk to you. I’ll make it up to you, iight?”
“Ok.”
“You
havin fun ova there?”
“Yep.
Grandpa took me to Six Flags yesterday and I rode all the roller coasters.”
“That’s
good. What y’all doin today?”
“We’re
goin bowling and then out to eat.”
“Iight.
Well, call me sometime today, iight?”
“I
will. Love you Daddy.”
“I
love you too baby.” I hung up wit her and nodded off to sleep.
I
woke up at 1200. I immediately took a shower and got dressed. I saw my guest
room door closed, not knowing Sydney Sydney
“You
always look cute when you sleep.” I told her.
“Whateva.
Where you goin lookin all snazzy?” She asked.
“Court.
I set up a hearing at 1400. If you can get dressed in 15, you can come.”
“Wouldn’t
hurt.”
“I
told Will and Candace, so they’ll be there too.”
“Iight.
I’ll be ready.”
I
closed the door and got my stuff together. I looked at all the pictures on my
phone and shook my head.
“Amazing.”
I said to myself. 20 minutes later, Sydney
“Kenny,
you’re on time? That’s unlike you.” She said as she saw me.
“It’s
not too often I’m getting rid of a virus.” I said. Monique and her lawyers were
sitting on the otha side. I locked eyes wit her and smiled. I was goin to enjoy
this.
“All
rise for the Honorable Judge Gray.” We all stood and watched the judge come in.
“Take
your seats.” He said. “Alright, Divorce Case 4529, Kenneth Johnson vs. Monique
Johnson, with a dependant, Tierra Annetta Johnson. It has been determined a
pre-nup was signed, so we all know what that means. If pre-nup doesn’t hold,
then Monique will be entitled to half of Kenny Johnson’s assets. Monique, your
side may present its case.
“You’re
honor,” one of her lawyers began, “my client has been a devoted wife, fantastic
mother, and an all around caring person. She’s had to live with this violent
man for the past 5 years. In the same sense, we find that not only is Kenny an
unfit husband, but an unfit father. Kenny has been in jail several times for
his behavior and lack of discipline. To be blunt, his violent behavior is what
gets him locked up. Allow me to show you footage of a beating that took place
in front of the SJ Manor. This was takin last week by Monique as Kenny Johnson
is seen brutally beating and killing Robert Hughes.” Everyone in the stands
were disgusted. Even for my divorce I can pack em in. I on the otha hand was
rather enjoying this lil view of my evilness. He definitely had that comin.
“You’re Honor, I also have a recording that Kenneth Johnson confessed to
cheating on Monique.” He played the tape of our argument.
He
stopped the tape before the rest of the confession.
“You’re
Honor, Mr. Johnson has been so paranoid that he has accused my client of doin
wrong doing when he has been the one the entire time. Not only should my client
be entitled to half of Mr. Johnson’s estate, but also the custody of Tierra.
That is all.” He sat down as him and the rest of her lawyers celebrated like
they won this. Latoya and I started talkin.
“You
do realize this doesn’t look good for you?” She asked me.
“Realize
and confident that this won’t be a problem. That’s why I love you. You’re the
best there is. You thrive in these situations.”
“Thank
you. I’ll do my best.”
“Your
best may be too much for em.” I told her. She smiled and stood up.
“You’re
Honor, before I begin, may I say that you look great since the last time I saw
you.” She said.
“I
beg your pardon?” Judge Gray said.
“Don’t
you remember? Last week I was representing anotha client and you were the judge
of that case.”
“That’s
right. Mrs. Lopez, I remember you. How’s your son?”
“Good.
He’s becoming quite a handful.”
“They
usually are. So what brings you into Divorce cases?”
“This
is definitely not my cup of tea, but Kenny is my brotha and I tend to do
everything in my power to ensure he’s not cheated. I’m kinda learning from you
when you were a lawyer. You kinda did the same thing for your sister.”
“I
see you’ve done some research on me.”
“I’m
tryin to be a judge, gotta learn from the best.”
“You’re
too much.”
“You’re
Honor,” one of Monique’s lawyers interrupted, “may we please continue on?”
“Calm
down, nigga, we tryin to talk.” Latoya told him. “Judge, I just want to say
that it would be an honor if you would sign my copy of your book.” She handed
him the book.
“It
would be my pleasure. You are, after all the best lawyer in Cleveland
“I
think I wasted enough time, let me go ahead and begin.” Latoya drank a lil
water and winked at me. “You’re Honor, I need you to take a good look at my
client and then at Monique. Mr. Johnson is not only relaxed, but confident that
he will win. On the otha side, Mrs. Johnson looks nervous, unsure. There is a reason
for this and that is because she feels that she will be exposed. You know, the
tape that Mr. Ives played was a nice piece of work. Allow me to play the real
version.”
As the real version played, the judge looked at
Monique’s lawyer like he was an idiot trying to pull a fast one. When the tape
ended, Latoya stopped it and grabbed it.
“Damn that hurts. Allow me to show the
pictures that had Mrs. Johnson admit to cheating.” She showed the pictures in
my phone. Judge Gray looked in dismay. “As far as violence go, Mr. Johnson was
very much provoked in that attack on Mr. Hughes. To address the threat made by
Mr. Johnson towards Mrs. Johnson on that tape, that was to change her mind and
obviously it worked. I’ve known Mr. Johnson his whole life and he’s neva hit a
female. I know several people that can vouch for that statement. To end my
case, I’d like to add a few words of credibility. Mr. Ives talked about a
criminal record against Mr. Johnson, yet he can’t show valid incarceration. Mr.
Johnson has been in jail on accusations but was never convicted to anything. In
a written statement made, Tierra actually prefers to be with Kenny. Not to
mention, Mrs. Johnson has missed 2 of 4 of Tierra’s birthdays. If you can only
witness the relationship they share, you can determine that Mr. Johnson is not
only a wonderful father, but a role model for the world. Thank you.” She smiled
at me as she walked back to her chair. “This is yours.” She told me.
“I
love your confidence.”
“You
know when I’m confident, that’s what it is.”
“I
just wonder how much money I’mma have to give her.”
“None.”
“Say
gain?”
“You
ain’t gon be payin a dime. Watch.” We looked at the judge.
“I
have reached a decision. Would both parties rise.” We all stood. “Not only has
this divorce been finalized, but I have decisions on divorce terms. Mr. Kenneth
Johnson will be obligated to pay on a monthly basis….nothing as the pre-nup
holds up.” We all cheered on my side prematurely. “Order!” We calmed down. “As
for custody of 4 yr. old Tierra Annetta Johnson, will be rewarded to Kenny
Johnson.” At the sound of that, I damn near fell out. I hugged Latoya and gave
her a big kiss.
“Thank
you, sis.”
“That’s
what I’m hea fo.” She said.
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