Upon the Light

By Evyn Vernee

In this novel, two brothers face trouble and trials in very different ways as supernatural forces seek to influence their actions. Loyalty and love are put to the test among families living in Chicago.

Leon Lomax is a young man who loves his family, including his brother Lester. Even so, brotherhood has its ups and downs. Will Leon be able to mend what has been broken, move forward, and begin again? Or will he continue to focus on his own selfish desires? Meanwhile, Lesters darkness soon turns a different shade. As his spiritual eyes open, his mind begins to close to the details of the physical world. Will the love of Kalyse create in him a new heartor will her departure weaken him and leave him vulnerable? As otherworldly beings work behind the scenes to manipulate them for better or worse, the Lomax brothers will soon find out that once tragedy takes hold, their lives will never be the same.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Nov 10, 2017
• ISBN: 9781532034831

Evyn Vernee

Evyn Vernee is a criminal justice graduate from Ohio. Her faith-based background influenced the creation of the supernatural saga including novels such as- Stepping out of Darkness, Upon the Light and future coming Hidden Sorrows. Evyn has used a mystical fiction twist to explain her and others testimony, addressing spiritual warfare, addictions and the ups and downs of relationships. These relationships consist of family, friends and even Christ.

Book preview

UPON THE LIGHT

Stepping out of Darkness continues to fall Upon the Light, as loyalty and love are put the test within the families of Chicago. Leon Lomax loved his siblings, but while brotherhood shows its ups and downs, a new test emerges! Will Leon be able to mend what has been broken? Or will he continue to think about his own selfish desires? Lester’s darkness would soon turn a different shade. As his spiritual eyes open his mind begins to close to the details of the physical world. Will the love of Kalyse create in him a new heart? Or will her departure weaken him? Either way the Lomax brothers will soon find out, that life will never be the same once tragedy finds rest in all directions of their lives.

Part

THREE

PROLOGUE

THE INSISTENT SOUND of the alarm clock rings three times before Ralph is awakened. Groaning while drowning his face into his pillow, he huffed as the sun rays shined through his bedroom window. The woman from the Heavens appeared again; sitting patiently on the windowsill, wondering if Ralph felt any better than before. Rubbing his eyes the young man stood tall, as he stretched his arms outwards the muscle in his back rippled with strength. He was of a new generation and the transition into adulthood was more difficult for him than most.

Putting his glasses on, his ears strained, listening for the familiar sounds of his father’s music. He heard nothing; meaning that this had been a working day. Applications scattered around his night stand. Most were unfinished with only his signature. Feeling overwhelmed Ralph grabs his basketball, and heads for the kitchen. After making a bowl of corn flakes he sits down preparing to eat, the morning newspaper falls to the floor. Bending down to pick it up, his clumsy ways are exposed as his glasses fall off his face, and finally he sees the woman sitting on the kitchen counter. Her face pensive with a curious tilt to her head seemingly ready to communicate.

What are you looking at? she asked.

Nothing. Ralph responds calmly while eyeing the boldly printed words in the Article which read "help needed- T.J’s Pizza".

You know work is good for the soul, even for dreamers like you and me. The woman says to Ralph, her voice melodic and therapeutic, calming to most.

I don’t have a job. Raplh responds sounding as down as he looks.

Not yet; but we all have to start somewhere…When duty calls. she says teasingly with a smirk.

Ralph looks up, folding his arms finally he cracks a smile. Are you here to finish the story?

DUTY CALLS

KALYSE LISTENED WELL to Ms. Maxwell’s instructions as she jotted down orders for her future duties. Her boss, Vanessa was also very interested in her new interns past experiences pertaining to the fashion business.

The shoes are lined up in the back of store, always stack them directly in the middle. Vanessa instructed, her finger never looking up at the items. Kalyse was amazed with her memory. The clothes are always to be placed on the side of the wall. And make sure this walkway stays clean and open at all times. I love open space, it makes the customers feel more comfortable as well. Now, back here is your office, keep personal things locked up in your locker, you know people steal. Vanessa smiles.

Yes. Don’t worry, I’m writing all this down. Kalyse pushed her thick glasses closer to her face.

So…. you’ve created your own fashion line? In the past? asked Vanessa.

I was a costume designer in high school, long ago. I’m grateful to have this opportunity. I love your work, I’ve seen it in many magazines. I’ve dreamed of being a known designer like yourself, Kalyse said with sincerity and passion.

Is that so? Well what stopped you? Vanessa ask giving Kaylse her undivided attention.

I guess.. life or maybe bad timing. I met a man and had kids. Kalyse explains with a forlorn look entering her expression.

Kids? Vanessa asked shocked You look so young to have children, how many?

Twins, their small, only eight months. But I’m ready to start being a working mom now. Kalyse smiles.

Vanessa folded her arms as she grew more interested in Kalyse personal life, Are you married?

No, their father and I never married. Kalyse eyes downcast with a look Vanessa could only associate with as shame.

Let me guess, you gave your all and he gave nothing? Happens like that sometimes. Vanessa replies, trying to lighten the somewhat awkward atmosphere she created.

Yes, Kalyse says meeting her bosses eyes once again.

I run a magazine line too, it’s on the east wing of the building.

Vanessa pulled her hair into a ponytail and pinned it up with a pencil. Her professional look made Kalyse admire her even more than ever before. Not only was this woman beautiful but she had the strength and confidence that she desired. Vanessa winked at the young woman, Kalyse knew with Vanessa and Aunt Linda in her life she would have New York eating out of the palm of her hand.

Well, Kalyse a bit of advice from a woman who knows men. Never let them take over your career. I’ve had my heart broken a time or two before. But like I say, to make it in this world you need to know America’s favorite color.

I think I know where you’re going with this; my father would say, ‘ America’s favorite color is green’.

And he is absolutely right. Now, Kalyse are you ready to start your journey in the world of fashion? Vanessa ask fierce and determined.

Holding onto her notepad she knew her sketching would have to begin sooner than later. Kalyse was blessed and ready to work.

While sitting in her office, Vanessa trusted that her assistant; Katie would direct Kalyse when she needed it. So far Kalyse had been showing professionalism in all that she did. Still with so much to do Vanessa couldn’t help but to look further into Kalyse’s past. She had noticed the last name Baylor, and couldn’t help but to think about her high school days with Avery. Kalyse had his smile, but Vanessa had buried her feelings for Avery and that past life long ago. Why should she go back now? Too many memories would surface. Maybe all was well to keep secrets. Vanessa thought as the phone rang, snapping Vanessa out of her turmulous thoughts. It was 9:00 a.m. and the caller I.D. showed that her son was calling.

L2V project, you’re speaking to the best. Vanessa said with a smirk, as she loved to rub her success in her son’s face.

Mom! Lester hated being patient with others but when it came to his mother he would do anything.

Hi, Baby. I was just getting my day started had to show my new employee around. She’s very cute. I think you would like her.

I have a girl, Ma. Besides so much has happened to me within the years I wouldn’t know where to start by telling you about my love life.

So how is everyone? Is Leon all right? Vanessa puts her pen in her mouth smiling and turning in the business chair like a child.

Everyone is good, listen ma I’m calling because I need some money. Lester was about business even when it came to his mother, his personal affairs were private.

Money? How about mother I miss you and when will be a good time to visit?

Ma, U know I love and miss you, and I do want to come visit, but my baby mama is tripping. She always thinks I’m fucking around on her and I swear Ma she want me to marry her and shit. Lester’s voice grew angry and impatient.

Lester, marriage is okay. Of course it wasn’t for your father and I, but when you find that true love marriage works.

Naw, aint shit going to work with this bitch he says dismissively.

I can tell your father raised you. How is he? Vanessa ask with a sigh.

I don’t know. Sometimes I feel you or Pops don’t give a fuck about me. Lester meant well, but at times he could be incredibly selfish.

That’s not true. I just don’t want to dwell on the past. My life is New York. You can come see me whenever you like. I’m not stopping you.

Yeah, so, Mom, you going to send some money to me or what? Lester asked with anxiety.

Maybe, Tell me more about what’s going on. You love this girl your with now? Vanessa twirled in her chair.

Brittney? I mean, yeah, I care about her, she’s pregnant. He replies.

Oh, I’m going to be a grandmother? How nice to know. How did you meet her? At your club?

No, she was a friend of Nikki’s and Misty’s. I’ve been messing with her for a while. Lester grinds his teeth

So what happened to that other girl you liked so much? What’s her name? asked Vanessa curiously.

She left me. I went to jail, and well when I got out she had moved. I asked her brothers where she went, but her family wanted me to stay away. He says

You sound like you still love her. Vanessa replies

I do. He responds quietly.

You’re a protector like your father was with me. Until…

Its cool, Mom you don’t have to talk about him… Listen, I’m about to head out. Britt, gets in my business, then she wants to start arguments. I swear, Mom I want to fuck this bitch up, she so jealous. Lester huffs.

Just stay out of trouble and tell your brother, I’ll be waiting to hear from him too. I love you, Les. Vanessa smiles.

I love you too, Ma. he replied.

Vanessa turns her focus back to the new interns papers. The only address under the young girls name was a New York address. Maybe her mind was playing tricks on her,"This isn’t the Baylor I was thinking of" she whispers.

As the day moved on Kalyse knew she would love working here. Finally a place she could call home, if she saved her money she would fulfill her every desire. A place of her own; big enough for the twins to have separate bedrooms, and lots of space for family to visit even future grandchildren. She wanted Lester to share this with her, but he had chosen a different path, and it was time God showed Kalyse hers.

I’m leaving now, Mrs. Maxwell. She shouts.

Okay..and Kalyse? She stops in front of Mrs. Maxwell’s office door.

Yes? she says timidly.

Call me Vanessa. I’ll see you in the morning. Vanessa smiles.

Sure thing Ms. Vanessa. Kalyse smiles while walking out of the building, as Vanessa watches her leave.

When Kalyse finally made it home she walked into the two swinging doorways of her aunts lavish apartment. Aunt Linda looked like an African Queen, with her long dashiki gown and thick braids down her back. Kalyse couldn’t help but to think of home, she missed walking into Grandma Howards’ house seeing her sitting on her chair waiting for Kalyse to tell her about her day.

Aunt Linda was a younger version of Grandma Howard. She watched her children take a few steps and quickly fall in the process. Kalyse could see her aunt was enjoying her time with the twins. Rubbing them down with Baby Magic, their presence brought joy to one’s life. Exhausted Kalyse pulled off her heels and laid face down on the couch, as if she had no more responsibilities for the rest of her life.

I don’t think so, young lady. Come feed the boys and then you can clean that room you messed up. Aunt Linda said gently yet with a sternness that brooked no argument.

I’ve been working all day! Kalyse pushes her face into the couch stronger.

Food. You have two little ones, if you haven’t forgotten. Linda points to the twins

I wish their dad would help me. Kalyse sighs dejectedly.

Well he’s not, so get over it. Have you heard from him since you moved up here? Linda asked with disdain dripping from each word.

He’s in jail. I don’t want to talk about him. As the founder of L2V says, ‘the color of America is green’. I can’t worry about love, when I have others to think about. Kalyse says twisting her hair as she looks upon her children.

Don’t say that Kalyse, you just haven’t found the right man, he’ll come when you least expect it. So I take it you like your boss… is she nice? Linda sat beside her niece only wanting to hear good news about her first day on the job and more than ready to close the topic of Lester.

Yes! She’s great, I admire her very much. Kaylse says, her mood going from somber to excited.

It’s the New York in her, we’re all like that. Linda smiles.

I didn’t see much of her. I spent most of the day with her assistant Katie. She’s really nice. Kalyse finally picks Ian up, pulling something from his mouth.

Are there many African American women working there? Linda asks

No, Katie has olive skin and dark hair, but I don’t really pay too much attention to a person’s race. Kalyse replies nonchalantly

Well, you need to. Especially as you climb up the social ladder of Americas fashion industry. States Linda.

Kalyse rolled her eyes but politely told her aunt she was right, when the phone began to ring, she quickly rushed to receive it. Kalyse was hoping it was Katie from her job, she wanted someone around her age to show her the popular spots in the city. She knew it wouldn’t be long before her aunt would start getting on her last nerves. But to Kalyse’s semi disappointment, it was just her father checking up on her and the boys.

Hi baby girl, it’s Daddy. Avery says.

Hi, Dad! Let me tell you about my first day on the job! I’m so excited! My boss is one of the smartest and most successful women I’ve ever known.

Is that right. Well how are the boys doing?

They’re good, Aunt Linda has her hands full with them.

Kalyse laughed at her statement about her children and aunt, while twisting her hair. She did this whenever she was really happy or really sad. She knew her dad wanted her to stop but at this point it was a mark of who she was.

So how long before you think you’ll be back home? asked Avery.

I don’t know. I think I’ll wait for the boys to get a little older. They are learning to walk, and I just got started on this great job. I don’t know when the right time will be to come back.

Well, everyone is doing well around here. Your brother Jacob is excited to be driving his motorcycle all over town. And… well Jefferson, we placed him in the halfway house, but I’m not sure how long that will last, Avery says dejectedly.

At least he’s trying to become better. Kalyse implies ever hopeful.

His girlfriend Vera, she is Heaven- sent. She talked him into checking in and turning his life around. He’s been coming to church too. Avery said seemingly relieved.

Oh and Dad, I’m sorry to hear about you and Uncle Alex. Is he speaking to you yet? asked Kalyse.

He shuts down sometimes, but we’ll be okay. I spoke to Tami, and she’s trying to talk some sense into him. He says

I really don’t think Uncle Alex stole that money, Dad. I think he just wished you had a little more faith in him, says Kalyse.

Faith is what everyone in this family needs. Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one carrying the load around here. He says in a way only a spiritual person could.

Let’s talk about something more exciting. Like I was saying, I love my boss and the fashion in New York is ridiculous. I’m ready to move forward. Kaylse says trying to uplift her fathers spirit.

What did you say her name was? Avery asked curiously.

Who? Kalyse questioned.

Your boss, what’s her name?

Oh I’ve been rambling on and on about her and haven’t even mentioned her name. Her name is Vanessa Maxwell. Kalyse states.

Vanessa Maxwell. Avery remembered Vanessa very well, Kalyse continued to speak highly of the new people in her life.

Yes, everyone knows her, her work has been on some of the most popular and prestigious magazine covers out there. First she was this crazy beautiful, and of course cool model. Then she became this powerful fashion designer.

Avery quickly changed the subject.

So I won’t be seeing you or the boys this winter?

Well, not me. Vanessa was talking about this Christmas party and she doesn’t have much family here. I think her son is coming to visit. But I’m not sure. Kalyse turns around to see Ian and Iggy pulling each on other’s shirts.

Your Aunt Joanna will be here, and you know she likes to travel. I may have her come get the boys. It will give you a break. he says.

Really? That would be great, Dad. Hey, I have to go, tell everyone I love them.

I will… Kalyse? Avery feels joyful, and smiles at the idea of seeing his grandsons. Kalyse could hear the sincerity of her father’s voice.

Yes, Daddy?

I’m proud of you.

Shelly walked in with a towel on her head and a soft warm brown robe. Avery loved kissing Shelly after she had just stepped out of the shower. With an excited look on her face she began to talk about the women at her job and how her co-workers couldn’t wait to see Avery again. When he was a small child he received so much attention, not much had changed in his adulthood. Pulling his tie loss, he began to think that maybe this wasn’t a good night to go anywhere. He hated having bad blood with his brother. He could feel the pain Alex had been going through. Although Alex wasn’t too pleased with the thought of being a thief, Avery knew something more had been tugging at his brother’s spirit. He too began to think and dwell on the past himself. Kalyse boss had been someone Avery had known very well. He didn’t want his wife nor his daughter to know, but like his mother would always say. ‘What’s done in the dark will come to the light.’

Shelly hugged Avery and asked him to sit down beside her on their king size bed; although she was thrilled about the upcoming party, she still didn’t want her husband to be too uncomfortable. She began to question his thoughts.

Tell me what’s going on, Avery. If it’s Alex he’ll come around.

It’s not that. I was thinking about the day that they found Daryl. Up to this day, no one knows what really happened. Alex has been shutting down, and it reminds me of those days when we lost our friend. he says.

Fall of 1973 the police gathered around Daryl’s mother’s house. Avery and Alex stood in the mist with the rest of the football players, giving Daryl’s parents hugs, as they wept for their once missing, now deceased son. Month’s had gone by since the murder, and still no answers were given to the black community, on how or why this happened. Avery knew the racial outburst had arisen from the fact that, a couple of young black boys had been partying all night at the Maxwell mansion. Alex regretted meeting Cindy and her sisters. He held on tight to another woman’s hand hoping to cause tension between the two. Cindy did the same as she pressed closer to, the basketball starter of Carter High. Avery couldn’t get over the image of seeing his best friend, Daryl covered in a black plastic bag. A week had gone by since seventeen year old Avery was at the crime scene, now he was in a suit and tie, listening to his father.

Rev. Baylor preached at the funeral, and began to sing the old song ‘Gods got a changing hand.’ There had been a closed casket memorial, but a big picture of Daryl stood out in the midst of the crowd. Black Panthers from Chicago had come to protest, but no one really knew the facts behind Daryl’s situation. When it was all said and done the good times that, Avery and Alex shared with their friend would forever more be the only memories they would have. Not understanding lost at their age, little did they know Daryl’s death wouldn’t leave their mind as quickly as they thought.

Come over here and sit with me, Avery, says Mrs. Baylor.

I really need to get back to my studies Ma, he says.

What I have to say won’t take long. Mrs. Baylor was kind, soft spoken and sweet. She always wanted to do right by her God, her family and community. Her opinions were stated like facts and patience had long ago become her virtue.

Avery sat on the other side of the kitchen table. His mother looked so young with her hair pulled back; she could pass for one of Avery’s sisters. Avery sipped his milk slowly as he waited for his mother to start talking. She had a way of finishing whatever it was she had been doing before beginning to speak her mind. As she sewed the pants leg of Rev. Baylor’s suit, Avery begin to rock his left knee back and forth. Mrs. Baylor finally stopped, looking straight into the eyes of her baby boy. Avery tried hard to hold back the tears that he wanted to shed, he too had regrets for going to Cindy’s and Vanessa’s party.

Your father has a cut on his right arm. I wrapped it up when we were teens living down south. Before your father accepted his calling as a preacher, you know what he wanted to be? Mrs. Baylor never looked up at her son, she continued to sew.

No, I don’t Avery says.

A comedian, he wanted to make people laugh. There was a small juke joint not too far from mama’s and daddy’s home. That’s where I met your father. she smiled.

In a juke joint? I can’t see that being true. Avery took another sip of his cold glass of milk, smiling at his mother, with a look of reverence.

The clubs weren’t like they are today. He was standing on stage just to be a, what younings call a crowd-pleaser. However he continued to make me laugh, long after those late nights. Mrs. Baylor paused for a moment looking forward to the china glasses that set before her. Avery waited for her to speak, to look him in his eyes as she told her story. Instead she looked at her thread and needle. Laughing before she continued. One day your father and I were walking back from a long night of laughter, and in the midst of leaving he became thirsty. I told him we didn’t have long before we were home, but he insisted on stopping to take a drink from the white man’s fountain. Mrs. Baylor had prayed she would never have to tell her children this story, but she realized it was a must. Avery soon became interested, lowering his eyebrows in concentration, eyes now lit with curiosity wanting to know more.

Mama…What happened? he asked.

Some white men came from out of nowhere; calling your father a Nigger, and ganged up on him. I stood there crying, screaming for help, but no one came. We still had a ways to walk before we were on the colored side of town. Don’t get me wrong, he fought those men real good. But he couldn’t fight two men at once. My father must have gotten word about the fight and came to the rescue. Mother told me to get the bandages and oil to heal the wounds. Mrs. Baylor continued to sew and cracked a smile as she thought about her mother teaching her things that a lady should know.

Avery wanted to hear more of his mother’s story. He moved in closer, tapping his fingers on the glass of milk.

That’s crazy, Ma. So whatever happened to the men that fought him? Avery asked.

Mrs. Baylor bit her bottom lip; she knew her son may not take her story serious, but to her everyone’s story meant something. She pointed to the cookie jar.

Go on and grab yourself a cookie… As far as I know nothing, nothing happened.

Avery began to laugh, Well it couldn’t of been me, I would have knocked them boys out!

The point of the story son, is that whites can’t be trusted. Mrs. Baylor’s voice was quick and her emotion hidden.

Oh Ma, don’t say that! Times are different now. Avery had been disappointed that his mother didn’t approve of Vanessa. She had known that his feelings for her were genuine, but in her times a love like this just couldn’t exist.

Times are different, but people are the same. I know you spend time with that, Vanessa girl, and I don’t think you seeing her is a good idea at this time. Mrs. Baylor says.

Mom? Avery had become more surprised with her calm yet stern comments, the issue of interracial interaction, showed Avery another side of his mother, one he didn’t realize she had.

Mrs. Baylor looked at her son through her thin glasses. She wasn’t frowning, but she didn’t have a smile on her face either.

White women and black men don’t mix. They just don’t and I don’t want to hear no more of you spending time with Vanessa or her sisters.

Yes, Ma’am. he responds dejectedly, head down cast and tone low.

Avery kissed his mother on the cheek, before quickly running to his room. Alex had been yelling at an old football tape from a year ago. With chips and left over pizza beside him, he almost didn’t realize that Avery jumped in the bed to look over his biology book. Alex’s loudness didn’t seem to drown out the thought of his father getting cut because of race. This scared Avery and although he cared deeply for Vanessa, he knew his mother was right. Besides mothers we’re always right when it came to love, right?

Look at this play Bro, see how I made that touchdown and the opponent never saw it coming? Alex says.

Yeah, you’re good. How can you watch this? Isn’t Daryl playing in that game, too?

Hey, it’s good to laugh when there are hard times. Daryl was a jokester, he wouldn’t want us feeling down, man. Chips? Alex hands the large bag to Avery. When the phone rings once Alex rushed to grab it, then quickly handed it to Avery. Avery shook his head as his brother continued to drink his soda and move closer to the television.

Hello? he says.

Avery, this is Vanessa, can we meet somewhere and talk? Or get together?

No, I don’t think that’s a good idea. Avery shows no emotions as he speaks

No? Oh, are you still upset about your friend? Vanessa’s voice lowers.

Avery didn’t seem the same, still he distanced himself, I’m good. Talk to you later.

As Avery hung up, Alex looked at him in shock, he was known to be rude, not Avery. But to his surprise his brother had learned a lot from his own habits. Alex turned the television down.

What was that about Bro? Alex asked.

I’m good on her. I need to focus on other things like biology. Avery grabs his book

Oh yea? I know what you mean. I stopped talking to Cindy. I have that fine Larissa on my arms. Alex smiles.

Bro, you’ll be with someone else by next week. Avery shook his head.

For real, what was that about? I thought you really liked Vanessa? Alex turns his attention to his brother.

Mama told me this story about Daddy. Did you know he was jumped by some white boys when he was a teen?

Yes. Alex says.

Why didn’t you tell me about it?

I thought you had heard that story. Mama tells it all the time. Oh, let me guess, she told you to stay away from the white girls, right? Alex laughs taking his mother’s words as a joke.

Yes. Avery replies.

Well, let’s make a deal, just stop talking to Vanessa and anyone that has anything to do with her. Alex reached his hand out waiting for a slide.

There were many times Alex eased Avery’s mind from worry. Still Avery wanted to make sure the thoughts of losing his friend were never mentioned again. The brother’s agreed to leave Daryl’s situation in the past, and Avery would move on from such a silly love affair, with Vanessa Maxwell.

Shelly stood up and smiled at her husband even though his thoughts seemed to still be in the past. Their evening would be a night she wanted to remember the rest of her life. Seeing her husband in pain hurt her. Shelly had been pleased with