Troubles don't last always.

Enemies

We got up the following morning, took a shower, and had breakfast. We were sitting at the kitchen table and sifting through the television channels when we came across the news.

News anchor

Breaking News! According to information we've received, a shooting occurred at the West Hills gas station last night. One of the victims was declared dead at the scene, and the second shooter is still at large.

"Aye, turn it up," Marquis said anxiously.

"WARNING: What you are about to see is extremely graphic," the news anchor advised.

We watched as the video of two guys shooting at each other played. One of the cars immediately caught our attention because it resembled Deon's.

"The shooting happened last night at approximately 8:30 p.m." she continued. "I've just learned that the other victim was discovered dead in his car a few blocks away. The victims have not yet been identified by the police, but we will keep you informed."

"You don't think that was Deon, do you?" I asked.

"Nah, Deon was at home, he said he had a girl coming over." He turned off the television and went upstairs.

That car looked very similar to Deon's car. I'm praying Deon is at home!" I thought to myself.  I went upstairs into the bedroom where Marquis was. He sat on the edge of the bed scrolling through his phone. I could tell he was worried!

I sat beside him and rested my head on his shoulder. "Baby, what's wrong?"

"I'm worried." He looked at me with tears in his eyes. "That car looked exactly like Deon's car! What if--what if that was Deon?"

"That wasn't him! Did you try calling?"

"Yeah, but it went straight to voicemail. What if he was shot because of my bullshit with Monique?!" He sneered.

"Don't say that! I'm sure Deon is at home, curled up under some chicken head or something!" I elbowed him. He gave me a half-smile before tossing his phone on the bed beside him.

I need to ensure the house is spotless and in great condition before the kids return home today.
Trent hasn't contacted me, but I know he will want to speak with me when I arrive at his house, so I don't need to worry about that.

Text message
Me: Hey, big head. Can you have the kids ready by five?

T: Ight! I need to speak with you once you arrive, so don't rush out!

Me: What is it about?"

T: You'll know when you make it here...

Me: ugh, Ight.

I stopped by Julie's house before heading out to get the kids. Something wasn't right with her... she had a paranoid expression and kept looking over her shoulder as if fleeing from someone.

"What's up, baby girl? You good?" I asked her as she fidgeted in the passenger seat of my car.

"Yeah...I'm fine!"She kept looking over her shoulder. "Brian and I fought the other day... he threatened me!"

"What did y'all get into it about?"

"He threatened to harm you and Marquis! I told him that if he tried anything, I would call the cops. He became enraged and punched me in the stomach! He said he'd make Marquis pay for what he did to his sister," she raged, "but the crazy thing about this whole situation is, she's lying! She's pregnant by chance!"