The Right Wish

By Deneen Elise

A family is haunted by a curse that has followed them for generations. Through the struggles, tragedies, lust, deceit, and challenges, they are determined to do whatever it takes to destroy the curse.

The Right Wish

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jan 13, 2018
• ISBN: 9781543473254

Deneen Elise

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Deneen Elise crafts captivating stories across multiple fictional genres, drawing readers into a world of suspense that is impossible to resist. Originating from Far Rockaway, NY, this Queens native began writing at the age of 14 but only embraced publishing at the age of 50. Her works include "Measures of a Bitta-Sweet Life," "The Right Wish," "Parker Steps," and her latest creation, "KWAH." In addition to her writing talent, Deneen Elise, alongside her husband, professional saxophonist Frankie Addison, manages the live band, Signature Live!, performing at various venues and special occasions. As a versatile artist, showcasing her skills as a vocalist, actress, and screenwriter (https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm15179192/ ref_=instant_nm_1&q=Deneen%20Elise), Deneen Elise's ambitious plans are to adapt each of her novels for the screen, successfully scriptwriting several treatments, and releasing a final novel in 2025. Char Turner (Intern Fictional Writer) The native New Yorker, raised in Queens, has always been a high achiever throughout her education and has enthusiastically embraced crafty challenges, particularly mastering the art of quilting. Fictional writing has become her latest endeavor. The wonderful friendship with author Deneen Elise has elevated her abilities and imagination, significantly contributing to the joy and creation of ‘KWAH’. Char, the mother of a wonderful daughter and two adorable grandchildren, not only loves quilting but also enjoys listening to music and exploring various genres through reading. Sade’ Ave’ (Intern Fictional Writer) Straight out of Brooklyn, NY, Sade' Ave' is passionate about reading fictional books, particularly in the supernatural genre, and also happens to be the niece of author Deneen Elise. Since the unique creation of the novel 'KWAH,' she has been ecstatic yet filled with shyness about being publicly exposed. Sade' Ave' is the proud mother of a young teenage son and holds a degree in Liberal Arts & Social Science. Having achieved her dream of working with her aunt, her next goal is to delve into the art of culinary.

Book preview

Copyright © 2018 by Deneen Elise.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Photography of model Debbie Felder-Kizer by CeCe ACEVA Production

Rev. date: 02/11/2021

Xlibris

844-714-8691

www.Xlibris.com

772021

CONTENTS

Prologue

Book I

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Chapter 56

Chapter 57

Chapter 58

Chapter 59

Chapter 60

Chapter 61

Chapter 62

Chapter 63

Chapter 64

Chapter 65

Chapter 66

Chapter 67

Chapter 68

Chapter 69

Chapter 70

Chapter 71

Chapter 72

Chapter 73

Chapter 74

Chapter 75

Epilogue

Special Thanks to:

My Family!

My Frankie! JazzyBoo & Frankie II xoxo

My Girlfriends from P.S. 197 Childhood to grown-hood!

To my dearest friends for life who I refer to as the other sistah’s……girlfriends forever! Damn! –—there’s so many of y’all!

Very special thanks to CHAR…girl you rock! So glad we met!

Signature Live! EFFECTz,

Rosa & Shorty

Debbie Felder-Kizer thank you for putting aside your shyness and modeling for this book cover!

Paulette Felder…………. thank you so much for your support.

Freda…………. this one is for you girl!

Awee, Iesha, Jazzy & Sade–—WHEW! Thank you so much! I love you!

And most important……………reconnecting with my old friends………. xoxo

PROLOGUE

Boca Raton, LA

June 2013

N URSE HEAVEN ESTELLE loved her job and took pride in everything she did for the patients at Side-By-Side. Everyone loved her, the staff, patients, and even their families. For the past nine years, since her employment at Side-By-Side, she treated all patients equally, never showing favoritism.

However, that seemed to change once she met Ms. September, the elderly woman who was bought there and abandoned by her family:

Ms. September was special, different from any patient she had ever cared for. Although Nurse Estelle loved her, she was also somewhat afraid of the woman. She just could not explain why, if she were asked to. She was the only person at Side-By-Side who knew that Ms. September could speak. It was their secret.

No one really knew Ms. September’s real name. The name Ms. September was the name given to her by the staff because she arrived at Side-by-Side 6 months earlier in the middle of the month of September. However, she insisted that Nurse Estelle call her ‘Auntie’.

Three days after Auntie’s arrival, Nurse Estelle was assigned to her section. At first sight, an uncanny feeling came across her. The woman reminded her of a statue. Her skin looked tough like leather. It seemed obvious that a slight smile would have cracked her skin.

Despite her appearance, Nurse Estelle greeted her with kind words and introduced herself.

Ms. September showed no emotion, keeping her eyes fixed away from Nurse Estelle.

As the months went by, Nurse Estelle made it a habit to spend more time with Auntie. She began reading short stories to the woman with hopes of getting a response or chuckle but received nothing.

It was not until the 4th month from her arrival that the woman finally broke her silence, changing Nurse Estelle’s life forever. She now knew everything about Auntie, including her real name. Nurse Estelle didn’t know if the woman was evil or good. She even thought that perhaps, the woman was crazy. However, that thought changed. The woman told her everything about herself and even everything about her own life! Nurse Estelle came to the conclusion, convinced that Auntie had to be an angel sent from God.

However, unfortunately, and oddly, Auntie had put her in a difficult position. She asked her to do something very bad and gave her a week to reply; knowing she’d refuse to take no as the answer.

Today was the day to reply and her mind was made up. It was the right thing to do.

Nurse Estelle took a deep breath, sighed, and then entered Auntie’s room.

The woman was lying on her back staring at the ceiling. Her eyes shifted back and forth as if she were reading.

Good morning ma’am! Nurse Estelle trembled.

I sense your fear. Why are you trembling? Auntie asked. I take it that you have made your decision. Am I right? No need for the painkillers. Throw them out! After we’re done, you’ll never have another migraine. Ever!

Nurse Estelle took the pills and tossed them into the trash.

I want you to lock the door, close the blinds, and turn off the light. Auntie ordered.

Oh, God please help… she dropped to her knees and began to cry.

I will say this one more time Nurse Heaven Estelle! Auntie replied insensitively with her eyes still fixed to the ceiling. I want you to lock the door, close the blinds, and turn off the light! We can’t put this off another day! It must be …

I KNOW! Nurse Estelle snapped abruptly, drying her tears, rising to her feet, and then locking the door.

BOOK I

July

1973

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK

CHAPTER 1

A HOT SUMMER, EVENING breeze, rushed through the kitchen window of Marva Holmes apartment as she rubbed her belly; anxious to deliver her third child.

Because of her gained weight, Marva experienced a series of mood swings; yelling one minute, crying the next then outbursts of laughter. The only person that seemed to tolerate her mood swings was Angela Day, her best friend.

JoAnna and my Aunt Lacey swears that this child is gonna be a boy. Marva chuckled as Angela began fanning her with a newspaper. I don’t give a shit what it is! The faster these last three months go by the better! And if it’s a boy, I’ve been considering naming him Medgar.

Medgar? Angela chuckled. Girl, what on earth made you think of a name like that?

Marva shrugged. I’ve always liked that name.

I sure hope you come up with a nickname! Angela continued to chuckle.

Marva grabbed a magazine and began fanning herself.

Angela grunted. You poor thing! This has got to be the hottest summer ever!

Oh, no the hell it ain’t! The hottest Summer is when I was pregnant with Cole! Marva grinned. The summer of 1954! All I did was eat like a pig, shit like crazy and sleep!

Marva and Angela burst with laughter.

And guess what I craved for?

What?

Peanuts! Marva continued to laugh. Just like a big fat elephant! Before I knew it, I had Benny hooked on peanuts too!

Speakin’ of Benny, where in the world is that man with my beer? He left here hours ago Marva!

"You know how Benny is! He probably stopped at The Hole to play a few numbers. Did I tell you that he almost hit twice last week? Marva frowned. The number came out 114 and that fool played 113! His Mama’s birthday!"

I bet you were sick to your stomach, weren’t you? Angela giggled.

Sick ain’t the word!

Girl, let it go! She waved her hand in the air. There’s more important things in life to think of! Every Sunday I keep tellin’ myself that I’m gonna get up and join a church but, the Devil keeps holdin’ me back!

That’s a crock of doodie! Don’t blame it on the Devil! Marva huffed. Girl, if I were you, I would be crawlin’ to a church! You’re a good catch! You’re a motherless widow! Most folks claim that the church is full of good men. You need to find one to take care of you Angela! She grinned. And who knows, he might even knock you up with a couple of kids. If Garvin didn’t drink so damn much, I’m sure y’all woulda had some kids! All that alcohol probably watered down his sperm! She sighed. May he rest in peace!

Angela eyed her good friend and said nothing.

For your information, I’ve got a man Marva! YOURS!

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Marva Holmes was no beauty queen, nor was she a troll. She was an average looking 35-year-old black woman. At 5’2", her weight was nearly 200 lbs. However, before her pregnancy, she was a petite, curvaceous woman, weighing 114 lbs.

Conceited about her curvaceous figure, she enjoyed the stares of men with wandering eyes. That was the only way she could pacify the insecure thoughts of her womanizing husband.

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Ah, stop being so damn jealous Marva! And stop believing every dumb-ass rumor you hear! I love you and there is nobody out there that can take your place! Benny chuckled. "Those women are customers! Girl you need your head examined! I’ve got big plans for you and me!

I’m gonna move you into a nice big pretty house! You watch what I tell you! He grinned. And I’m gonna make sure, Cole and Torrie have their own rooms too!"

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At times Marva found herself living off her husband’s dream; praying that he would hit big and get them out their cluttered one-bedroom apartment. She made a promise to herself that if that dream ever came true, she’d see to it that Benny would quit playing numbers. She would also see to it that he would quit being a number-runner for Brooklyn’s most feared Colored Street-Boss, Trunk Porter.

Everyone knew Trunk’s reputation of killing his runners or anyone who crossed him at the drop of a dime. Benny was no different from any of the rest. The thought of Trunk killing her husband sent chills down her spine. She couldn’t imagine their children, Benjamin (Cole) Jr., Victoria (Torrie) and their unborn child without their father.

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Born and raised in Bobnette, Georgia by her Grandparents, Marva was the second child born to Davis and JoAnna LaCrosse.

Her parents temporarily moved to New York, in with her Aunt Lacey; leaving 6-year-old Marva and 7-year-old sister, Oleta behind. Davis assured his in-laws that he would come back for the girls as soon as he got a good job and found an apartment.

Unfortunately, things in New York didn’t work out the way Davis had planned. After being laid off from several jobs, he continued living with Lacey. JoAnna managed to hold a steady job, working at a local grocery store.

For Marva and Oleta, being raised in Georgia under the roof of their grandparents, Nanna, and Wink; was quite an experience. They held religious services in their home 3 to 4 times a week for adults only. The only time a child was permitted to attend the service was if they were sick or close to death.

The odd religious services frightened Marva and Oleta. Whenever services were held, the girls would dash under their beds, trembling from the haunting echoes of chanting, hollering, and screaming. Marva thought the sounds were coming from a monster. Oleta thought people were being murdered in the basement.

The girls hated living with Nanna and Wink. They could not wait for their parents to rescue them.

On the other hand, Nanna and Wink loved having the girls there with them in their historical home. Marva was Nanna’s favorite grandchild and Oleta was Wink’s favorite.

Because of Nanna and Wink’s services, children made fun of Marva and Oleta. They called them ‘Devil Children’ and refused to play with them. The name-calling did not seem to bother Oleta as much as it did Marva. Marva lashed back at the children while Oleta teased them and threatened to cast spells on them.

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I’m gonna make you die in your sleep! Oleta giggled as the children cried, screamed, and fled away as fast as they could.

STOP IT! STOP TALKIN’ THAT WAY OLETA! Marva cried covering her ears as she witnessed the frightened fleeing children.

Oleta laughed. Shut up and stop being such a scary-cat!

Can you really cast spells? Marva’s eyes widened.

Of course, I can! She lied.

The last thing Oleta wanted her little sister to know was that ‘casting spells’ made her nervous. Although the girls had never actually attended their grandparent’s services, they both gathered the impression that it was evil.

You must never repeat anything you’ve heard! Nanna constantly warned them. If you do, you’ll be punished!

The warning frightened the girls and they both sensed that Nanna was referring to death as the punishment. It was not until Marva confided in her Uncle Roc, about Nanna’s comment, that changed their minds.

Mama ain’t gonna kill y’all! Why on earth would you think of something so crazy? Uncle Roc laughed. But she’ll sure beat the black off you! Believe me, I know! One time I repeated something I saw them do and your Grandpa Wink beat the crap outta me for two days in a row! And boy was my butt raw!

Really? Marva eyes widened.

They’ve been practicing this religion since you were a kid? Oleta frowned.

Yep! Even longer than that! It’s our family’s religion. It’s called RORIP. It stands for Rest or Rise in Peace and it has been around way before slavery. Honey be wise and take Mama’s advice! Don’t repeat nothin’ you hear or nothin’ you see. Uncle Roc warned both girls. This is a very serious religion.

WE WON’T SAY A WORD! Marva assured him, trembling.

When your mother and I were your age, we had to sit in on those services and help out.

Oleta eyes widened. So, do you know how to cast spells and kill people?

Cast spells? Kill people? Roc chuckled. Little girl, what on earth are you talkin’ bout?

The kids ‘round here are saying that’s what Nanna and Wink does! They cast spells and make folks die, even children! Marva added.

They’re just foolish! Your Nanna and Wink are gifted, and you’ve got to accept that. Uncle Roc assured them deliberately avoiding Oleta’s question.

We hate living with them! Oleta snapped.

Yeah, and we can’t wait til Davis and JoAnna move us away from here! Marva added.

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When Davis and JoAnna finally came for their daughters, seven years had gone by. Marva hated New York and most of all she hated how the neighborhood girls made fun of their southern accents and old-fashioned clothes.

Oleta, on the other hand, loved New York and did whatever she could to fit in. The first thing she did was impress the girls by wearing her Aunt Lacey’s flashy outfits. She even went as far as, hiding her accent, convincing the girls that she was originally from New York. The lie irritated Marva and there were times when she wanted to shut her sister up and blow her cover.

The fancy dressing and popularity did nothing but cause problems at home. The clothes made Oleta look older, attracting older boys and men. Davis hated the attention and shooed away every male that tried to come across his door. His behavior angered Oleta, causing her to sass him and JoAnna. A few times, Davis let her get away with her sassiness and temper tantrums. However, things went a little too far when Oleta insulted him.

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You’re just jealous, Davis! Oleta hissed. I meet good men that take care of their families! They ain’t like you! The type of man that runs off and leaves his kids behind for relatives to raise! They are more of a man than you will ever be! And I’m gonna marry the first man that… Oleta paused after being slapped by Davis.

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Davis felt bad about what had happened between him and Oleta. He also felt guilty for not raising his girls during their early years. Right after the incident, Oleta ran away to Harlem and married an abusive number runner, twelve years her senior. When Davis tried to rescue his daughter by confronting the man, he threatened to have him killed. Surprisingly, Oleta supported her husband’s comment and told Davis to stay out of her life.

As Davis and JoAnna worried about Oleta and her new lifestyle, they were faced with even more shocking news. Marva was pregnant. At age 16, Marva had hidden the pregnancy from her parents by wearing oversize clothes until she was in her fifth month.

"Who is he Marva? Who’s the motherfucker that got you pregnant?" Davis yelled.

Benny! Marva cried. Benjamin Holmes!

The goofy number runner? JoAnna frowned, disappointed.

Yes ma’am, she lowered her head embarrassed.

Well that damn flunky better change his title quick! He’s gonna marry you and I mean it! Davis yelled then rushed out of the apartment.

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Benny and Marva married a few days after she gave birth to Cole. The following month, Davis lost his job and decided to leave New York. He moved back to Bobnette, Georgia, leaving Marva and Benny their apartment.

CHAPTER 2

T HAT’S IT! I quit! Torrie fussed.

Don’t quit Torrie! We’re next! Karlveeda assured her.

We’ve been turning this freakin’ jump rope for hours! And not one time have they even offered to turn and let us jump! I hate playin’ with Joy and Ursula Porter! They’re nothing’ but cheaters! I hate cheaters! The angry 11-year-old continued to fuss.

Oh, stop whining! Joy snapped as she yanked the rope out of Torrie’s hand and began turning.

Torrie cheerfully ran on one side of the rope and then the other, hesitant.

Are you gonna jump in or what? We don’t have time to be standin’ here turning for nothing! Ursula snapped.

Come on Torrie! Karlveeda jumped inside the turning rope.

No! Torrie frowned. Can’t you see they’re turning too fast? They know you don’t know how to jump Double Dutch! They’re making a fool outta you Karlveeda!

That’s a lie! Joy gave her sister a devilish grin. It’s not our fault that she doesn’t know how to jump Double Dutch!

That’s not fair! Y’all need to turn straight rope for Karlveeda and not Double Dutch!

You’re really beginning to get on my nerves Torrie! Ursula stopped turning the rope. I suggest you either shut up or take your fat ass home!

And if I don’t? Torrie challenged her.

We’re gonna lose our patience! Joy added.

If you even think about putting a hand on me, I’ll get my Aunt Ema to stomp you to the ground! Torrie warned Joy and Ursula as Karlveeda stood away fearfully.

Ema-the-slut? Ursula laughed fearlessly. We’ll kick her ass! And we don’t give a shit if she’s older than us or not!

What she needs to do is find time to get off your Daddy! Joy added.

What’s that supposed to mean? Torrie frowned, confused.

Joy and Ursula began giggling.

Word has it that she’s doing nasty things with your Daddy! Joy continued to laugh.

NOT TRUE! Torrie yelled as she charged towards Joy, knocking her to the ground.

As the girls fought, a few children began instigating and cheering them on. Joy managed to get the best of Torrie until Torrie grabbed her by the hair then rolled on top of her.

LOOK! TORRIE’S SLAMMIN’ HER! A kid yelled. GET UP JOY! GET UP!

COME ON JOY! GET UP! Ursula shouted as she kicked Torrie.

No fair Ursula! Cut it out! Keep it fair! A boy warned. I’m sure Joy will find a way to win this fight without your help!

LOOK! JOY’S BLEEDING! A young girl shouted.

As the children gasped at the sight of blood trickling from Joy’s nose, Torrie continued getting the best of her.

THAT’S RIGHT TORRIE! GET HER! Karlveeda cheered.

Torrie’s heart fluttered, impressed with herself for getting the best of Joy.

TORRIE! GET YOUR BIG BUTT OFF THAT CHILD! Angela yelled, busting through the crowd of instigating kids.

But Mrs. Angela… Torrie tried defending herself as the children began laughing.

HUSH TORRIE! LOOK AT YOUR CLOTHES! LOOKS LIKE YOU BEEN ROLLIN’ AROUND IN A DAMN PIG PEN! Angela continued to yell. MARVA’S GONNA CUT YOUR TAIL! GO ON UPSTAIRS! YOU AIN’T GOT NO BUSINESS OUT HERE FIGHTIN’ AND ACTIN’ LIKE A FOOL, she shoved Torrie.

Why didn’t you help me Karlveeda? Torrie eyed her fighting back tears, drowning out the voices of the laughing children. Every time you get picked on or have a fight with someone, I’m always the one at your rescue, she began to sniffle. Did you hear what they said about my Aunt Ema? Torrie lowered her voice, too embarrassed to repeat it.

Karlveeda nodded, sympathetically.

Real friends don’t watch their friends get hurt! Torrie gave Karlveeda a long hard stare. You shoulda been beating up Ursula while I was beating up Joy! From now on, you and I are no longer best friends! Beat it!

Torrie sprinted to her apartment building, flopping on the front stairs, pouting.

Mrs. Angela strutted behind Torrie, then stood over her patting her hips. Torrie, what on earth were y’all fightin’ ‘bout in the first place?

Joy Porter put a nasty fib on Aunt Ema! Torrie pouted.

A nasty fib? Angela picked.

Torrie nodded, hesitant.

Well? What did she say?

She said that Aunt Ema is getting it on with my Daddy! Torrie voice began to quiver.

That ain’t a fib sugar, that’s fact! Angela mumbled, not realizing that Torrie had heard her.

Torrie tearfully dashed in the building as Joy’s comment rang in her ears repeatedly.

Word has it that she’s doing nasty things with your Daddy!

Word has it that she’s doing nasty things with your Daddy!

Word has it that she’s doing nasty things with your Daddy!

Torrie clenched her teeth hoping that her punches really hurt Joy.

I hate you Joy Porter! And I hate you too Ursula! The next time I see either one of you, I’m gonna beat Joy up all over again! And then I’m gonna beat you up too Ursula! She began to cry. You’re a big liar Joy Porter!

As much as she tried to get along with other kids, Torrie always ended up fighting them. She hated it when kids called her names, referring to her chubbiness. However, this time, her reason for fighting was different. Joy had taken things to a completely different level.

They’re just jealous of Aunt Ema cause she’s pretty! Torrie ran down to the building’s basement to hide.

She knew as soon as she got in the house, Mrs. Angela would exaggerate and make it look like she started the fight. Torrie hated Mrs. Angela. All she ever did was tattle, lie, and instigate.

That’s all Mama does is take her word for every darn thing! Torrie slowly sank to the floor.

Where’s my beer? I sure hope it’s in that big ass shopping bag you’re carrying! Angela snapped.

Torrie quietly peeked up the stairway, as Mrs. Angela fussed at her father.

Hey Baby, what’s up with the snappy tone? What’s wrong? You on the rag? Benny asked as he slapped her on the ass then kissed her.

Torrie eyes widened. She couldn’t believe what she was seeing.

No, I ain’t on the damn rag! Angela wiped his kiss away. For your information, I’m two months late! She whispered.

SAY WHAT? Benny frowned then chuckled. Ha! Ha! Very funny!

She ignored him and placed her hand on her hips.

What’s in that big ass bag?

It’s a surprise!

For me?

What you mean you’re a month late?

Is that a surprise for me or what? Angela avoided answering the question. Or is it for Marva?

Daddy? How could you cheat on Mama? Torrie frowned.

Benny grabbed Angela by the arm, annoyed. Angela what the hell is going on?

You scared? Angela grinned then ran her tongue down his neck.

Torrie stretched her head further up the stairway, finally getting a good view of her father and Angela as they kissed.

Ooh! What a cheater! She actually kissed my mama’s husband! Her best girlfriend’s husband at that! And I’m gonna tell Mama on both of you! Torrie huffed as she watched Angela shove her father.

Baby, you, and I need to talk! Angela huffed. Meet me at my apartment, she tossed him her keys.

You said you were late! Are you telling me that you’re…?

And if I am? Angela snapped.

Then we need to take care of the situation!

Take care of what? I ain’t takin’ care of shit! It’s not a problem for me! It’s a problem for you! Angela whispered harshly. It’s time for you to stop runnin’ and face the fact that you’re in love with me! What we need to talk about is us Benny! She sighed. "And by the way, I’ve gotta run up here and tell Marva what happened with Torrie and why she was fightin’.

Lord, what in the world was my baby fightin ‘bout this time? Benny managed to smile. That’s one little feisty kid. Is she okay?

Yeah, she’s fine. Angela replied in a dry tone. As a matter of fact, the fight involved you.

Me?

One of the kids told her that you’re fucking Ema! Angela clenched her teeth. That’s about the 3rd time I’ve heard that shit!

WHAT? Benny’s eyes widened, surprised.

You heard good and damn well what I just said Benjamin! Torrie was told that you’re fucking your young’ sister-in-law!

where in the hell did that rumor come from? Benny raised his voice.

Hush! Angela warned him, afraid that Marva or other neighbors would hear them. Don’t play dumb with me Benny! I’m gettin’ tired of this shit!

Me? And Ema? That’s sick! She’s a 15-year-old kid for cryin’ out loud! She’s young enough to be my daughter! Benny whispered.

Oh, cut the bullshit Benny! You’ve fucked young and old bitches and you know it! Angela snapped. Whatever you’re doing out there, you’d better put an end to it and focus on our relationship! What do you think I am? A joke? I just told you that I haven’t come on the rag. Doesn’t that mean anything to you Benny?

Every fuckin’ time we get into it or you get a stupid attitude, you bring up the rag! Benny snapped.

That’s a lie!

Angela? Marva asked as she stuck her head out her apartment door. Is that Benny down there with you? I thought I just heard his voice?

Yeah, it’s me baby. Benny replied before racing up the stairs leaving Angela behind.

Did you remember to pick up a loaf of bread? Marva asked.

Yeah baby, I got it and I got Angela’s beer too.

Where’s Torrie? Is she alright? Marva asked as Angela took her time walking up the stairs.

Didn’t she come in the apartment? She came in the building before I did! Angela replied then attempted to close the door behind her.

Here I am Mama! Torrie appeared behind Angela eyeing her suspiciously.

"Oh God, I sure hope this damn kid didn’t overhear Benny and I!" Angela sighed.

Hey baby! Benny grinned as he greeted his daughter. Girl, you been fightin’ again? Mrs. Angela told me all about it. Did ya fight the way I taught you?

Cut it out! You’re supposed to discourage her from fightin’, not encourage her! Marva fussed. Torrie get outta those filthy clothes and get in the bathtub! Right now!

What’s in the bag Daddy? Is it a surprise for Mama? Torrie announced as she ignored her mother with her eyes fixed on Mrs. Angela and her father.

A surprise? For me? Marva grinned.

It’s for after the baby, not now. Benny replied nervously.

Ooh! I can’t wait to see it, open it now Daddy! Torrie instigated as she took the bag out of her father’s hand.

Marva watched excited as Torrie pulled two boxes out of the bag.

Here Mama! Torrie smiled.

Two boxes? Benny, you hit the number didn’t ya? Marva grinned as she anxiously grabbed the boxes from Torrie.

Didn’t Marva tell you to go and change your clothes? Angela instigated, hiding her jealousy as Marva pulled a satin pink long nightgown out the first box.

Hot damn! This is some kinda gown! Looks like the ones they wear on those Hollywood movies. It’s beautiful! Marva chuckled.

Oh, you’re gonna look really good in it too Mama! Torrie smiled, ignoring Angela.

Torrie! What did I tell you about minding your elders? Stop being so damn hardheaded! Go in there and do what you were told to do! Benny yelled sensing Angela’s jealousy.

Yes sir. Torrie replied then eyed Mrs. Angela. I hate cheaters!

What did you just say? Angela asked in a panic.

Joy and Ursula, they’re cheaters! They didn’t play a fair game of jump rope today. Torrie grinned, sensing Angela nervousness. Cheaters! Cheaters! Cheaters! I hate cheaters! She deliberately sang then pranced her way into the bathroom.

Benny eyed Angela helplessly hoping that Torrie’s remark was just a coincidence. The last thing he needed was for his daughter to know about his affair. He looked at his wife as she opened the second box and pulled out a pair of satin slippers, perfectly matching her nightgown. Benny dropped his head shamefully, wondering and asking himself what in the hell was he doing fucking around on his wife. Marva was an excellent wife. She did not deserve this.

Since their marriage, Benny had numerous affairs, never falling in love with any of the women, including Angela. In fact, Angela was the worst affair he had ever had. All she ever did was bitch, whine, complain, and threaten him. He was getting tired of her and he wanted out.

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Either you spend more time with me and focus on our relationship or I’m gonna spill the beans about you and me! Angela constantly threatened. All I gotta do is run my mouth to the right people and Marva will find out in no time. I would tell her to her face but I’m not that heartless! I want what I want and that’s you Benjamin Holmes! Give me your time or suffer the consequences!

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At 33-years-old, Benny was a short stocky man. His gray hair and full, black-dyed beard gave him a distinguished appearance.

Women absolutely adored him for his sex appeal and wittiness. However, most men envied him because he was Trunk’s first running man.

Benny was born and raised in Brooklyn, knowing the city streets better than anyone who knew him. All of his life he had been a part of illegal gambling.

At age 8, his father taught him how to play craps. He admired his father for everything he observed, including sleeping around with different women.

Benny had the opportunity of exploring his father’s sexual fun when he arranged a prostitute to break his virginity at the age of 12 years old.

Welcome to manhood, baby! The woman laughed.

Had he not had the opportunity of hanging with his father, his mother would have made him a Mama’s boy.

Days after Benny’s 12th birthday, his mother committed suicide. Devastated by her death, Benny blamed himself and his father for not spending enough time with her.

Things began to change in Benny’s life when his father began borrowing money from hustlers. He witnessed him get beat up several times and even saw a man stick a gun up to his father’s temple. The debts got so out of hand that his father fled to his hometown in Mississippi. He promised to send for Benny but never did. Benny was left homeless taking on odd jobs just to put clothes on his back and food in his mouth.

It was at age 16 when Marva came into his life. Benny spotted the young vibrant girl at a local butcher, a place where he managed to steal smoked meats then sell them.

Ah, a girl your age coming in a place like this must know how to cook! Benny smiled striking up a conversation, playfully sniffing in the air.

Ah, a guy your age working in a place like this must know how to cook! Marva chuckled.

I know how to grill cheese! They laughed.

Benny and Marva engaged in a 2-hour conversation. Benny won her over with his smooth talking and good looks. He asked her out for a date and Marva accepted.

After two months of dating, Marva fell in love with Benny. She had no idea that he was homeless; nor did she know his true age. Benny kept his age a secret from Marva, afraid that she’d dump him, if she knew he was younger.

No matter how much he tried to keep things about his personal life away from Marva, he had no idea, that she knew he was the flunky to most street-runners.

By the third month of their relationship, Benny got Marva pregnant and got a job working as Trunk Porter’s personal runner. It was Trunk, who found him a room and rented it for Benny until he married Marva.

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Do you like it Angela? Marva asked as she placed the gown against her body. Girl, when I deliver this baby, I’m gonna go on a diet and fit right into this thing like a glove! She giggled then kissed Benny and thanked him. Honey, you, and I might end up workin’ on baby number four! She teased.

No way! The three we have are just fine! Benny chuckled hoping that Angela would join in on the laughter.

Well, I’d better be going! I’ve got a few chores to do. Angela announced, purposely avoiding Marva’s question about the gown.

Are you coming back later Angela? Marva asked.

I doubt it! I’ve got too many things to do. She lied as she headed towards the door.

But Angela you never told me why in the world Torrie was fightin’?

Ask Torrie! She’ll tell you! Angela frowned. Better yet, ask Benny! It’s a damn shame how your daughter beat the shit out of Joy Porter! She eyed him before leaving the apartment.

joy Porter? TORRIE WAS FIGHTIN’ ONE OF THE PORTER’S? Benny panicked.

I thought Angela just said you knew all about it? Marva asked.

No! I had no idea why Torrie was fighting! And if I had of known that she was fightin’ Joy Porter I would have skinned Torrie’s backside!

What do you mean you would have skinned her? What’s the big deal about it being one of the damn Porter’s? Marva frowned. Kids are kids! They fight one minute, then play the next!

Don’t you get it? Trunk is my boss! Torrie fought the daughter of my boss! Benny angrily stomped his foot. Shit! Now Trunk’s probably gonna cut me loose! Either that or he’s gonna suspend me! I’ve got to go down to The Hole and apologize to him about that damn fight!

Will you chill out! What the fuck are you panicking for? I’m sure Trunk understands that kids fight! Before you know it, they’ll be friends again. Marva assured him.

No baby, you don’t know Trunk. It doesn’t take much to irritate him!

Fuck Trunk Porter! Everything is Trunk this, Trunk that! He ain’t nothin’ but a crook number runner and worthless father! How many kids does he have? I heard he had 20 of them out there! That bastard is 70 years old and still pumpin’ out babies! Joy and Ursula are young enough to be his grandchildren! And poor Alvamae, if I were her, I would have divorced his ass years ago! Marva fussed.

Marva keep his business out of your mouth!

Business? I’ll say whatever I wanna say! You’re the fool workin’ for him and as far as I’m concerned, it is my business! What you need to do is find a real job! You’ve been a flunky ever since I met you! Marva continued fussing with her hands on her hips.

Flunky my ass! Look at the nice things I’ve given you by helpin’ these cats run numbers? Benny tried defending himself.

Nice things? Marva frowned. A nice thing to me is having a house! Not a damn one-bedroom apartment! Our kids should have their own rooms! Not sleep on the sofa and living room floor!

It’s comin’! I’m gonna get us a real nice home, you’ll see. Just be patient Marva. He rushed out of the apartment.

Yeah right! When will that be? When the kids are grown? Marva huffed in a whisper then noticed Torrie peeking out from their bedroom. Don’t be peekin’ at me! She chuckled. Your Daddy’s crazy Torrie! I don’t know what I’m gonna do with that man!

Maybe we should move away! Just you, me, and Daddy! Torrie suggested, flopping on the sofa. I think your problem is here! Right here in this building!

What do you mean, me, you, and Daddy moving away? What about Cole? He’s part of this family too! Marva eyed her.

Cole’s old enough to take care of himself! He’s 19 years old!

Let me be the judge of that young lady. Marva continued to eye her then smiled. And for your information, my problem is Trunk Porter, not this building. And what makes you think that this building is my problem? This building is the least of my problems! I just wish I had more space. Besides, all of our friends are here in this building! Mrs. Angela’s on the third floor, Karlveeda and Mrs. Hattie are on the second floor!

Torrie grunted then sucked her teeth.

What’s the gruntin’ all about? Marva picked. You mad at Karlveeda again?

Yeah, something like that. Torrie grunted a second time secretly hating Mrs. Angela.

She wanted to tell her mother about Mrs. Angela and her father, but she didn’t have the heart to. The last thing she wanted to do was hurt her mother. Torrie even thought of confronting her father about it but feared getting a spanking.

Did Karlveeda have something to do with you fightin’ Joy Porter? Marva continued to pick. Why were you fightin’ anyway?

I was mad because she wouldn’t let Karlveeda and I jump rope. I lost my temper then hit her, she lied. I’m sorry Mama. Are you gonna punish me? Is Daddy gonna lose his job workin’ for Mr. Porter?

No, but you need to really watch your temper young lady. Marva warned.

But you don’t understand Mama. Ain’t no way I’m gonna sit here and tell you what Joy said about Daddy and Ema. You have enough problems Mama! Lies like that can hurt you and the baby! And Lord knows if you knew how much of a cheater Mrs. Angela was, you’d probably go right upside her head! Torrie lowered her head hiding her upset expression.

Torrie, did you just hear what I said?

Yes ma’am. I’ll watch my temper.

CHAPTER 3

A ngela sobbed silently as she walked around in circles in her apartment. Watching Marva open those gifts was a slap in the face.

All Benny had to do was tell Marva that the gifts belonged to Trunk Porter! All he had to do was tell her that Trunk bought it for one of his bitches!

The 31-year-old petite dark beauty, sank to her bedroom floor, then buried her head in her lap.

Why can’t he just leave Marva? Why can’t Benny just sweep me off my feet and leave New York so we can live happily ever after? Angela sniffled.

Angela rolled her eyes then sighed as she thought of the many promises, Benny had broken.

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Stop asking me when am I gonna leave her! That is the last thing on my mind! I just can’t walk outta her life while she’s carrying my child! Benny snapped. Let’s wait until the child is born, then I’ll work on it okay? I promise.

Why wait? We’re the ones in love Benny! Remember? When two people are in love nothing and no one else matters!

I’ve gotta go. We’ll talk about this later!

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Benny was full of broken promises and Angela was fed up.

If he didn’t have the heart to leave Marva, she would see to it that he would. Angela grinned then rubbed her belly, glad that she didn’t truly confess about her pregnancy.

I sure plan to have your baby, Benny! Angela grinned. Boy, Marva’s gonna kick your black ass to the curb!

Angela rose to her feet from her bedroom floor, as soon as she heard a soft knock at her door. She hoped it was Benny, then sprung to the door. A disappointed expression came across her face when she looked through her peephole and saw Marva.

Hey, you got any soap powder? I’ve got a couple of things to wash. Marva announced as she barged her way inside.

Why don’t you send Benny to the store to get some? Angela replied in a snappy tone.

Are you kiddin’? He left a few minutes after you did. He calls himself going to apologize to Trunk Porter for the fight Torrie and Joy had.

And he thinks Trunk is gonna settle for an apology? Angela grunted. I betcha if anything, Trunk’s gonna cut his pay. Cheap sucker! When is Benny gonna learn that Trunk ain’t doin’ nothin’ but using him?

Benny’s hard-headed, he’s got to learn the hard way. I guess one day he’ll just decide to leave that man alone. He thinks the world of Trunk! Marva sighed. "And for some strange reason, I think Trunk likes him too! I was impressed when Benny told me that Trunk is gonna let us use his car to go outta