Truth Be Told

By Hilda A. Stephens

Truth Be Told takes you on an incredible and adventurous journey. Nathan Tidwell, the outspoken high-profile attorney, finds himself in a difficult state of mind. In a serious car accident that leave him in a vulnerable touch-and go situation that causes him to rethink his life.

Nathan goes missing-in-action while his wife and family frantically search for his whereabout. It been months, not one word of Nathan's disappearance. Will Shavonna his wife move on or continue to search.

Will Nathan learn to adapt and overcome the odds that is stacked against him. There is only one person that can help Nathan regain his faith, love and truth and move forward to accomplish his new life for his family and friends.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Mar 21, 2022
• ISBN: 9781669813378

Hilda A. Stephens

Hilda A. Stephens is a published author of two books: “God is This my Man” and “God is This my Man part 2 The Saga Continues.” Hilda is a graduate of Ashworth University with a degree in Psychology and certification in writing children’s books. Hilda’s gift has inspired her to write four children book, three stage plays and thirty-five song lyrics. Hilda is the mother of one daughter, Latesha, son-in-law Terrance and three grandchildren MonTerris, Shayla and Jahvon. Hilda resides in Durham, North Carolina.

Book preview

It’s Not Over

I t’s early morning. Marco cannot sleep. He sits on the side of the bed, still troubled about the shooting of Braxton DePaul. He can’t believe no one has been arrested. It’s getting the best of the clever judge Marco Albright. He looks at Sheena. Immediately he reads the investigation report, again. Something’s got to be missing, it’s right in my face, Marco whispers. He stares at the report.

Marco, what’s wrong. Why are you up so early?

I’m sorry, Sheena, I couldn’t sleep. There is something in this report that I’m missing.

Why does the shooting of Braxton DePaul have you this concerned?

My gut instinct tells me that I’m so close to solving the case.

And what will you get from all of this?

Sheena, someone tried to kill Braxton DePaul. I have a right to uphold the law, justice will be served.

I understand, this is important to you. I know Nat appreciates everything you’re doing.

I’m doing this for my daughter, the hell with Nathan.

What does Patrice have to do with this?

My daughter loves Braxton. They could have a child together. What will my grandson think of me?

Marco, this is personal.

Sheena! Someone tried to kill Braxton DePaul. This is serious.

I get it, but don’t overextend yourself.

I won’t, but I got to help solve this case.

This is too much. I’m going back to bed.

I know. I will be up soon. Marco closes the report and returns to bed. It is not long before Marco is asleep.

In the meantime, Braxton and Alana are packing for the move to Paris, France. The room is quiet. Alana watches Braxton from a distance. Braxton smiles but keeps packing. Finally, Alana speaks. We can’t take these things. This will never work.

What will never work?

DePaul, I’m talking about all this stuff.

I don’t plan to take everything, take what we need.

DePaul, is something troubling you?

No. Let’s just get this done.

Whatever you say, but you are—

Alana, please, I’m not in mood to talk about anything. Can you finish packing? I have a meeting with my father.

I can take care of everything.

Thanks, I love you. I will be back soon. Braxton closes the door. He pauses for a moment. Jayden is weighing heavy on his mind. He makes the call to Nathan Tidwell.

Good morning.

Hello, Dad, I’m on my way.

Great, would you like me to fix you something special for breakfast?

Whatever you fix will be fine.

What’s wrong, son?

I don’t know. I can’t seem to stay focused.

Why are you leaving the States?

This will be easy on everyone.

This is what you think.

This is my decision.

Okay. Whatever you think is best.

Nathan holds the phone for a few minutes, wondering what is going on with his son. He hopes he can persuade Braxton to stay in the States; whatever he decides, he will support his son. Braxton checks the time as he speeds down the interstate; he makes another call. The call goes to voice mail; he slowly pulls into the driveway, and the phone rings.

Hello.

Good morning.

How are you?

I’m doing well. Is there something you need?

Yes, thanks for calling me back.

Where are you?

I’m at my father’s house. Where is your husband?

Paris is preparing for work.

I need to see you before I leave.

What is this about?

It’s about my son.

Let’s not do this.

I need to see you today.

I will try to get away. I need to call the nanny to watch Jayden. Can you meet at noon?

Yes, bring Jayden. I need to see my son before I leave.

Braxton, we have already talked about this. Jayden is Paris’s son.

No, Jayden is my son. I do not have time for this. Call me later.

Patrice quickly hangs up. Paris enters the bedroom.

Is there anything I can do for the man I love?

Yes, why don’t you and Jayden meet me for lunch?

I will try to work it in my schedule. What time?

What about noon?

Can we meet later?

Why later? You look surprised.

I have some errands I need to get done.

I can take Jayden with me to work, and I won’t take no for an answer.

Paris, that’s not necessary.

Are you sure it’s no problem? Jayden can go to work with me. I think he will like it.

Paris, I can take care of Jayden.

Whatever you say, dear. I will see you at noon, and don’t be late. Paris gives Patrice a kiss and leaves the room.

Lord, what am I going to do.

Patrice falls across the bed. Paris is interfering with Patrice’s plans.

What am I going to do?

*  *  *

Braxton arrives at his father’s house. Nathan escorts Braxton to the patio.

Good morning, son. I thought this would be a great place to talk. This is where I come when I have things on my mind. Please sit, get relaxed, things can’t be that bad.

I don’t know what to do. I want to stay in Washington and raise my boys.

Braxton, this is not going to be easy. Paris is not going to release Jayden to you.

Jayden is my son. I’m going to fight for him.

Are you ready to do this? It could hurt your music career with Black Label Records.

I don’t care what I got to do to get my son. Patrice and I lost one child. I’m not losing Jayden.

I know you want to do right by Jayden, but sometimes you must let things go. Things have a way of working out.

It’s more than that. I have been a fool. I want Patrice back in my life. Dad, I can’t survive without her. Patrice is everything to me. I remarried Alana, but my heart belongs to Patrice.

Son, too many lives are involved. This is not good. Sometimes what we want, we just can’t have it. Believe me, I know how you feel, but this may destroy you, and you could lose everything. Paris is not going to allow you to do this.

What are you saying, I should just let this go?

My answer is yes for now.

Why did I come here, I thought you would support me?

I do. That’s why I am telling you to wait. Patrice will come around. Paris will never be able to do enough for Patrice—he is not you. And that is what counts. Don’t leave Washington?

What do you mean?

Every time you are in Patrice’s presence, let her see what she is missing. Patrice loves you. It will work.

What about my son?

Take care of Emilie. You have been blessed.

And you think this is going to work.

Braxton, stop thinking with your heart, use your brain. Paris will kill you if you try to take his wife and son away. Your son needs you and so does Alana.

I called Patrice this morning. She is going to meet me at noon with Jayden.

It’s not going to work. Call Patrice and tell her things have changed—you decided to stay in Washington. She will understand the message.

Why should I share this with Patrice? I haven’t told Alana my decision.

Let Patrice know that you haven’t shared this with your wife. It will make her feel you still care.

I do care about Patrice, I love her.

Good, then do what I have requested.

What happens if Patrice stays with Paris?

Nothing, you still have your wife and son. Let it go.

I need to call Patrice.

Yes, it is the right thing to do. Everything is going to be okay. I love you, son.

I love you too, Dad.

*  *  *

Patrice hurries and gets Jayden dressed; her mind is still on the conversation with Braxton. The drive from Nathan’s house is thirty minutes. Braxton tries to put Patrice and Jayden out of his mind, but nothing seems to work. Braxton makes the call. Patrice answers on the first ring.

Hello, Braxton.

Patrice, there is something I need to share with you.

Is something wrong?

No, I hope it’s good news.

I’m ready.

I can’t meet with you today. My plans have changed. I have decided to stay in Washington.

That’s great news.

You think so? I shared this with you before I told Alana.

Why?

I care about you and my son.

Patrice is silent.

Are you still there?

Yes, I’m here.

What do you think?

What do you want, Braxton?

I want you. Do you love me?

Why do you make everything so difficult?

Answer my question. Do you love me?

You already know the answer.

It would be nice to hear it from you.

I do. What difference does it make?

Are you saying I still have a chance?

I don’t know, stop confusing me. I love Paris, but—

Paris is not me, and he will never love you the way I love you.

I gotta go, I’m meeting Paris for lunch.

Think about what I said and kiss my son for me. I will call you soon.

Goodbye, Braxton.

Goodbye, Patrice. I love you.

Patrice’s mind is all over the place. She looks down at Jayden and whispers, What am I going to do about your father? Patrice is having a hard time forgetting this conversation. Patrice is in a tangled web, and the more she thinks about Braxton DePaul, the more he captures her in the trap.

*  *  *

Braxton tries out the lesson from his smooth and impeccable father as the mystery unfolds. One thing Patrice can’t forget, Paris is watching. If Patrice thinks she is one up in Paris, she better think again. The table is about to turn. Patrice has no idea what her husband has planned.

*  *  *

Patrice gathers her things to meet Paris for lunch. Jayden is asleep when she arrives. Paris is waiting inside; he watches from the window. Patrice hurries and removes Jayden from the back seat as she glances down to check the time. Paris has a gut feeling that something is wrong. Patrice is on edge.

The host seats Patrice. Paris gives a quick smile and reaches for Jayden. He holds Jayden as if this is his last time. Paris continues to hold on to Jayden as if his life depends on it. The table is quiet. Patrice does not interrupt; she sits holding her breath as the thought came to her mind. I wish this was Braxton.

Paris and Jayden are having a father-and-son moment. Paris looks up. How is my beautiful wife doing today? Patrice is at a loss for words but regains her composure and replies, I’m having a great day.

Would you like to share your day? Did something great happen?

Not really, I’m happy.

Happy, please explain.

Paris, I’m happy, there is nothing to explain.

What do you want, Patrice?

I don’t understand your questions.

Patrice, I love you, but nothing seems to work. I don’t believe you are happy with our marriage. Let’s not pretend anymore. I think it would be better between us if I moved out for a while. This will give you the time you need to think about our marriage.

Where is all of this coming from? I said I was happy.

That is right, but not with me. I am not a fool.

What are you saying?

I’m saying I’m moving out.

You are going to leave Jayden and me?

No, I’m leaving you. Jayden is coming with me.

Have you lost your mind? Jayden is not going anywhere.

I’m not going to argue with you. If you love me, you will make the decision to let Jayden live with me. If you can’t decide, I will decide for you. I am tired of Braxton DePaul playing mind games with you. If you love Braxton, marry the man and let me go.

Why are you doing this to your family?

Patrice, I know you love Braxton, that’s obvious. Deep down in your heart, you wish more than anything that he was sitting across from you. I am not taking this anymore from you. I fall in love with a woman I may never have, and that’s okay, but one thing for sure, I will fight until the end to keep Jayden in my life.

I’m sorry if you are unhappy with me. I am giving you everything. What more do you want?

I want you heart, but I’m afraid you can’t do that.

This is crazy. You have all of me.

I see that look in your eyes. You need more. You have one week to make up your mind, and after that, Jayden and I will be leaving.

Why are you taking my son?

You need to prove to me that you can let Braxton DePaul go and live his life. Otherwise, if you fight me on this, you will never see Jayden again.

I will do anything, please don’t leave me.

You have a choice to make, and it’s with Braxton DePaul.

I can’t stop Braxton from calling me.

I can. I’m not afraid of Braxton DePaul!

Patrice leans over the table. Did you shoot Braxton?

No.

Paris doesn’t say another word. Lunch is incredibly quiet except for the conversation between Paris and Jayden. Patrice manages to finish lunch, but the message from Paris is ringing in her head.

What time should I expect you home?

I don’t know. Do whatever makes you happy? Paris plays with Jayden.

Jayden and I will be waiting.

Go home, Patrice. Jayden is staying with me.

Please don’t do this to me. Jayden, Mommy will see you soon.

Jayden waves goodbye; Patrice rushes out the door, tears streaming down her face. She slowly dials the number. A voice immediately answers.

Hello.

It’s me, Sheena.

Patrice, how are you?

I don’t know.

Would you like to talk with your father?

No, please don’t tell my father I called.

What’s wrong? You sound awful.

I know.

How are Paris and Jayden?

Jayden is fine, but Paris . . .

What is wrong?

Paris is planning to take Jayden away from me.

Your father won’t allow that to happen.

Don’t get my father involved. I got to handle this myself.

What are you going to do?

Whatever makes Paris happy?

And what is that?

I got to find a way to get Braxton DePaul out of our lives.

It sounds like Paris has had enough.

That’s true. I didn’t see this coming.

What did you expect? Braxton keeps interfering in your marriage, and you allow it. Why?

I love him with all my heart, and Paris knows this.

If you leave Paris, do you think Braxton is going to leave Alana?

I don’t know, he could.

Don’t count on it. You know how much Braxton loves Emilie.

Jayden is Braxton’s son.

And Paris is your husband. Do you really know if Jayden is Braxton’s son? Have you seen the DNA test?

I know for sure. Braxton is the father.

I’m sorry, but you got to fix this.

What can I do?

First, you can start with the truth. Don’t you think you owe that to Paris?

What good is that going to do? I’m in love with Braxton DePaul.

Don’t be stupid, you are in love with a memory. That is all you have with Braxton. I suggest you figure this out before your husband gets home. Stop this now, Patrice. Marco walks in the room. Sheena is furious. I gotta go. Will you call me later?

Okay, I will you call after I talk with Paris.

And, Patrice—Sheena turns from Marco—Don’t call Braxton.

I promise I won’t. Thanks for the advice, Sheena.

Was that my daughter? Marco asks.

Yes.

What’s going on with Patrice?

Patrice asked me not to involve you in this matter.

What do you think?

I think you should know. Paris is planning to take Jayden away from Patrice.

Good, it’s about time Paris steps up.

I can’t believe this.

Patrice doesn’t owe Braxton anything. For God’s sake, Patrice is married. Paris decided, and Patrice will live with the consequences. Marco walks away.

Are you finished?

This is Patrice’s problem, and I’m staying out of this, and I hope you do the same.

Patrice needs someone to talk to.

Patrice is frightened. When Patrice calls back, I will do the talking.

But, Marco, Patrice will know that I shared this with you.

I don’t care what Patrice thinks. Jayden is my grandson. I’m going to do what is best for him.

I understand. Sheena backs down.

Now what’s for dinner?

Whatever you like? Sheena smiles.

That is my girl, I love you, baby.

I love you too, Judge Marco Albright.

*  *  *

It is getting late, and Paris and Jayden are not home yet. Patrice keeps watching the phone—not one call. Patrice moves downstairs to the family room. It is now 10:00 p.m., and still not a word from Paris. Patrice leans back on the sofa and falls asleep.

Jayden is asleep on the leather sofa in Paris’s office as he continues to work.

He looks down at Jayden and smiles before checking the time. Paris continues to work. Two hours have passed. Paris grabs his briefcase and removes Jayden from the leather sofa. He calls for his car.

The drive home is twenty minutes. Paris pulls in the garage and immediately puts Jayden to bed. Patrice is asleep downstairs. Paris takes a shower. Patrice is awakened by a loud noise; she jumps up, checks the time, and runs to Jayden’s room. He’s asleep.

Paris stands in the hallway; he doesn’t say anything and walks away toward the bedroom. Patrice slowly walks behind. Paris is tired; he lies cross the bed. Patrice watches.

The room is still, nothing is said. Paris finally pulls back the cover and turns his back. Patrice desperately wants to say something but lets it go. Patrice leaves the bedroom and watches Jayden sleep.

*  *  *

This is more serious than Patrice thinks. Paris is done with this issue.

*  *  *

Patrice moves closer. Paris does not respond. She wraps her arm around Paris. He immediately moves away.

Paris, please talk to me. Paris does not respond. Paris, please—

What do you want, Patrice? I am done talking. Go to sleep. I am tired.

Patrice moves away. It is a tough night for Patrice, but Paris wouldn’t give in. Patrice cries most of the night; it breaks Paris’s heart, but he won’t comfort Patrice. Patrice finally drifts off to sleep.

The next morning, Paris is up preparing breakfast for Jayden. Patrice enters the kitchen.

Good morning, Paris.

Good morning, Patrice. Would you like some breakfast?

No, thank you.

Did you think about our conversation?

That’s the only thing on my mind.

"Good. The nanny will take Jayden to