Broken Pieces

By Michael Sims

Broken Pieces is a drama that will captivate you as a reader. Spencer is a world-renowned lawyer who experiences situations in his life. Spencer grows up in a middle-class environment with both parents. However, he is faced with obstacles that he does not fully understand or have any prior experience with. Spencer is known for getting the job done whatever the cost. Spencer understands that friends are important and is keenly aware that his college buddies provide him with a feeling of belonging, bring fun and laughter, lend an extra hand, offer emotional support, and give guidance when he needs it. However, Spencer doesn't realize that their influence goes well beyond the moment. Spencer's identity is further shaped by his close friends and the women he has dated. However, his humility does take a toll on his relationships with the people in his life. He doesn't try to be vindictive with situations that occur in his life, but in the end, he has to take a stance. By the end of the book, you will have praised Spencer, cried on behalf of Spencer, and relate to many of the life experiences he encounters in the book. How will it all end? What would you do if you were Spencer? This is a must-read!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798886441246

Michael Sims

Michael Sims's six acclaimed non-fiction books include The Adventures of Henry Thoreau, The Story of Charlotte's Web, and Adam's Navel, and he edits the Connoisseur's Collection anthology series, which includes Dracula's Guest, The Dead Witness, The Phantom Coach, and the forthcoming Frankenstein Dreams. His writing has appeared in New Statesman, New York Times, Washington Post, and many other periodicals. He appears often on NPR, BBC, and other networks. He lives in Pennsylvania. michaelsimsbooks.com

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Table of Contents

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About the Author

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Broken Pieces

Michael Sims

ISBN 979-8-88644-123-9 (Paperback)

ISBN 979-8-88644-124-6 (Digital)

Copyright © 2022 Michael Sims

All rights reserved

First Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Covenant Books

11661 Hwy 707

Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

www.covenantbooks.com

1

The sun is rising, birds are singing, and waves are crashing on the beach. The college students were all on vacation. Spencer and his friends decided to take one final vacation before they graduated. They all woke up excitedly and started preparing breakfast before leaving for the beach party, which starts at noon.

Derrick inquired, What is the stage for, guys?

Ricardo said, I heard it's going to be a huge concert.

Spencer added, I also overheard a few ladies saying they were going to compete in a wet T-shirt contest after the concert. Then there will be a competition to see who has the best abs. I believe I will take part in that one just for the sake of having fun.

Ricardo added his two cents, Spencer, I understand you, and it's great that you do. I just wish I was a virgin, but there are too many ladies out here for me to not give myself to them. Do you understand what I'm saying, Derrick?

Yes, absolutely! I feel you, big bro, said Derrick. Spencer, what time does your cousin's flight arrive?

I'm glad you reminded me of this. At 10 a.m., he departs from his flight. Let's hurry up and get dressed so we don't have to be late. Spencer said, We have an hour.

Omar is my boy, said Ricardo. While we're on vacation, I'm hoping he doesn't bring up the religion matter. It's not that there's anything wrong with talking about it. He's just too invested in it. We're here to have a good time, so we need to put a stop to him right away. Let's have a group discussion about what to do and what not to do this weekend, because I might run into my future wife.

At the table, the guys were all laughing and high-fiving each other. The fellas prepared to pick up Omar at the airport. They rented a four-bedroom beach resort duplex condominium with ocean-view rooms and a large patio for their after-party celebrations. While Derrick was still putting his clothes on, Spencer and Ricardo exited the building to get the car. The guys started to get irritated with Derrick because he was taking too long.

Why is he taking so long, man? We were all awake at the same time. He's way too slow. You'd already informed him that you needed to pick up your cousin in an hour. Ricardo suggested that they just leave him alone.

We're not going to abandon him, Spencer said, because we all know how slow he is. We've known him since we were in elementary school, so we'll just have to deal with it. Have a little patience, my brother. We'll get there.

Spence, you're a better man than I am, said Ricardo.

The guys were waiting for Derrick to come down in front of the building. Ricardo called him. Derrick picked up the phone! Ricardo yelled at Derrick, What the hell is taking you so long? We're waiting for you in the car. We need to go to the airport to pick up Spencer's cousin, Omar.

Y'all downstairs, said Derrick. Okay, I'll be off the toilet in a few minutes because that oatmeal is making my stomach knot up. I'll be down soon!

I knew it. Ricardo claimed that he was always on the toilet.

Derrick finally made it down the stairs and into the jeep.

It's a beautiful day with the wind blowing. It's not too hot outside. The doors and top have been removed from the jeep. The ladies were waving to attract the attention of the men. They're going insane, pointing fingers at the women, and critiquing their attire.

Is anyone wearing clothes here, by the way? This is a naked fest, and I'm about to get all up in someone tonight, Derrick said. Any guesses, gents?

We're all familiar with Derrick. You're the gentleman's gentleman. Every woman admires you. Spencer said, You'll just have to teach me a little something later.

You know I've got you covered. You're my big brother, my little big brother! Derrick responded, I'm still older than you.

The guys arrived at the airport. Omar was waiting for them on the lower level, carrying his book bag. He dived right in. Everyone was high-fiving him.

I'm not sure about you guys, but I'm about to turn up. Allow me to make a pit stop at the liquor store. I need to get something to drink. Yes, I still enjoy my Old E.

Ricardo said, Boy, you're old-school for real. Forties were still being consumed. Back at the condo, we have beer.

Nope. Omar said, I like what I like, and that's my Old English beer. Please take me there because a brother is thirsty.

Have you eaten yet? Derrick asked.

Omar responded, On the plane, I had some snacks. I'll be fine. This is something I do, fellas. Later, I'll eat. Thank you for caring. Where's all the ladies?

The guys were on their way to the liquor store to get some more booze. People were dangling from the windows of their cars, waving their hands. A car with a group of women was parked on the side of the jeep.

Omar screamed loudly. Ladies, ladies, what exactly are you all planning today? It's four of us and four of you, said Omar. What's new?"

The driver replied that they, too, were headed to the liquor store. Omar walked around the car, sizing up each of the ladies to see which one was right for him. He entered the vehicle on the passenger side and informed the passenger that she would be spending the night with him. Everyone drove away after exchanging phone numbers.

According to Spencer, I believe this will be one of the best vacations ever. Y'all, don't get too tipsy, respect the ladies, and have a good time.

Derrick responded, You really need to lighten up, Spence! We're on spring break, and it's time to crank up the volume. Have you seen all these ladies running around so early? On the beach, there's about to be a tsunami of women. In fact, we'll make certain you get some before we leave.

I'm looking forward to it. This is going to be a dream come true for me. I have a thing for ladies. I'm not sure about the rest of you, but I'm having a good time this weekend, said Ricardo.

Rick, Omar is speaking! We both about to turn up then! I was under the impression that you were a square. I'm not particularly book smart, but I do have a lot of common sense. I didn't enjoy school, but I do enjoy these streets.

The guys got back on the road and headed back to the condo after leaving the liquor store with four bags. They spent more than three hundred dollars on alcohol.

Oh, again, guys, Omar exclaimed. I'd like to express my gratitude to you all for picking me up from the airport. I've never taken a spring break vacation before.

They got back to the condo with all the bags, went out to the balcony overlooking the beach. All the women had on bathing suits, while most of the men only had on shorts with no shirts. The construction had finished up the stage for the concert.

What is the purpose of all of this, guys? Derrick was curious.

Ricardo stated, I heard there will be live bands playing, and there's the Who Has the Best Men's Abdomen competition.

The guys began to lift their shirts to see who had the best abs. Ricardo was the center of attention because he was a football player who only worked out.

I believe we all know who will come out on top in this competition. Rick should be nominated because he is annihilating us in the middle. I mean, I've got what it takes to get up there, but this time will be different, said Spencer.

Ricardo responded, If Omar goes with me, I'll get up there. He too has what it takes to win. Let's just have a good time, guys. We're on vacation, so why not have a good time?

When Omar spoke, he decided to go ahead and do it, despite his bloated stomach. We're on vacation, so I'm looking forward to having a great time while I'm here.

The guys were filling their coolers to take to the beach. Spencer was putting on sunscreen.

Omar asked, What are you putting on that smells like lavender and roses?

Spencer responded, Guys, it's suntan lotion. You should all put some on to avoid getting burned.

Derrick retorted, Dude, you're insane. We've already been scorched. That kind of thing isn't for us! We've spent our entire lives in the sun, and it has had no effect on our skin. It's a good thing that this is the final year.

Okay, guys, it's time to go to the beach, said Omar.

Hold your horses, fellas. Derrick said, I have to use the restroom again. Before anyone says anything, let me get this out my system so I don't have to come back in. Please give me a second so that we can all leave together. Cool.

Something must be wrong with Derrick, the guys said, shaking their heads. He's in the bathroom every time you turn around.

Derrick emerged from the restroom. The guys began walking toward the beach with the cooler in hand, no shirts on, flip-flops on their feet, and sunglasses on their faces. The stage was set up right in front of their condo, right on the water. Volleyball was being played by the boys and girls. The concert begins at 12:00 p.m. The guys pulled out their chairs and toasted each other with a bottle of wine. Spencer had purchased a bottle of expensive champagne. He kept it just for his friends because it was their senior year of high school, and he wanted to dedicate it to them.

Spencer, Ricardo said, this is some pricey champagne. Why did you hold off on opening this bad boy until graduation?

Spencer said, I wanted to wait for the right moment for the people I love, and that moment has arrived. For those who enjoy cigars, here are a few choices. I don't usually smoke, but this weekend I'm going to let loose. Plus, it's our final year! Let's raise a glass to the good life!

The crowd was growing, and it's only getting bigger by the minute. While the stage manager inspected the sound system, the photographer photographed the entire stage and beach. A lady approached the guys and asked, Do you mind if we sit here next to you all? You appear to be a lot of fun to be around.

Hell no, we don't mind, Omar said, looking her in the eyes. You're fine as hell. What is your name, and who are you with?

Belize is my given name. After they put their things on, eight more females will come down. So we'll take this spot and most likely spend the rest of the day with you all. Is that okay?

Oh, sure, said Omar, it's fine! Did you say there were eight other women? It's about to be turned up. Omar got up and started dancing.

Yes. Is there a problem? Belize asked.

No, not a single thing is wrong, Omar said.

Omar spun around and looked at all the guys.

Omar said, I think I'd better shut up. It's possible that someone better than her will arrive, and I'll be enraged because the one I want is out of reach because I started talking to her. She's fine as well! So you're saying your name is Belize, just like the country? I've heard the women over there are all nice and like to have a good time, is this true?

Belize responded affirmatively. I was named after my country. We enjoy having a good time when we're with the right people.

Omar was biting his hand, scanning her from side to side, waiting for the other women to emerge so he can choose which one to pursue. He liked Belize. The musicians were making their way across the stage. The lead singer was standing in front of the stage, waving his arms back and forth and talking to the audience. When the band began to play, everyone started to dance. The sound system was blaring at full volume. The other ladies came out wearing thongs and appeared to be more attractive than Belize. The gentlemen were staring at each other. They're letting each other know which one they want.

Derrick said, Guys, its nine of them and only four of us. Maybe we can get two apiece. It won't hurt unless you try. I had a threesome before.

Dammit, Derrick, that's why I like you, said Omar. I like the way you think. I don't know, guys. I might want one of them to eventually become my wife. They seem respectful and looking for a guy with some money.

If that's the case, Spencer responded, they're all in the wrong section. We're all broke as hell college students. They were fine guys, living on a prayer and chicken noodles.

Belize introduced all of the guys to the ladies. Each of them was hugging the other and exclaiming, It's a pleasure to meet you. While dancing and watching the band, the ladies had their own drinks and cigars. Omar was staring Belize in the face because he saw more than a one-night stand. Spencer and Omar were cousins who spend a lot of time together. Omar would send money to Spencer whenever he needed it. The guys were all dancing, drinking, and grabbing the ladies' hands to see who will choose them. Spencer was being watched by the woman with whom he was dancing.

Spencer inquired, What is your name, lovely lady?

Gila is my name. What's new with you today?

Spencer exclaimed, That is stunning! Does it have any significance?

Yes, Gila said, it means ‘eternal happiness.'

Spencer said, All I want in my life is joy. We must, without a doubt, keep in touch.

Gila believed that was the right thing to do. Is there a meaning to your name?

Spencer said, I believe so. If that's the case, I'd never heard of it before. My parents remained silent on the subject.

Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Spencer and Gila were kissing and cuddling. While the others were dancing, talking, and enjoying each other, Omar and Belize went for a walk around the beach holding hands, drinking, and smoking. The beach party was about to end, and the majority of the guests were inebriated and looking for an after-party.

Spencer exclaimed loudly, The after-party will be held at our location. Spencer said, Bring all your drinks and let's party, party, party.

They gathered at the condo. Derrick turned on the music, and the girls began stripping down to their underwear, pouring beer on each other, and smoking marijuana on the balcony. The condo was completely full. Omar and Belize kissed in the bedroom upstairs. They began snatching each other's clothes and having sex. When one of the Belize girls heard them entering the room, she opened the door, removed her clothes, and joined them. Omar turned to Belize and inquired, Did you set this up?

I did tell my friend to come upstairs and join us, Belize responded.

Oh, yeah, Omar reacted, we'll have to keep in touch. I'm in a happy place. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

They were playing spin the bottle for drinks while everyone was downstairs. The majority of the people in the condo were naked and asleep on the floor or in a room. Ricardo had three females in his room who had come with Belize, while Derrick had the other females. The house was in shambles, with broken bottles strewn about. Liquor was slick on the floor, potato chips were scattered across the furniture, and water bottles were stacked on the kitchen counter. The house had been completely demolished. Everyone awoke the next day looking at each other, with some people still sleeping on the floor and Spencer and Derrick walking around the condo.

Spencer looked perplexed as he wondered aloud what had happened here the night before. Derrick smiled and said, It was a party. And it was a nice party, too. We'll have to start all over again.

Oh no! This isn't the case here. Take a look at this place—it's in shambles. They aren't going to help us clean up this mess.

Derrick said, Man, the ladies will help us clean it up. You're worrying too much, bro. Relax. Remember, you were the one who suggested that we have a party at our place. Do you recall that?

Let's wake everyone up and get them out of here, said Omar. I'm about to shower and then begin cleaning. The ladies who came with us will stay with us for a while and assist us with cleaning and cooking. They're going to cook for us, of course. Did you get laid last night, Spencer?

No way, Spencer replied. I'm not familiar with her in that way. She was obviously enraged. Plus, I didn't have any protection in the first place. I'm sure none of you had any kind of protection, did you? Women have my respect because of who they are.

We know, Spencer. You're still a virgin, but we get it. Derrick said, You need to let loose at some point. You are always too tight. Let loose, brother.

Spencer replied, Whatever.

Ricardo walked down the stairs smiling, looking around at everyone on the floor, shaking his head.

Who are all of these people? Ricardo was quick to respond. Were they here last night on the beach? I don't think I've ever seen any of them. Did you all have a good time last night? I certainly hope so. I had a great time. I may have to marry one of those girls because they are so much fun. They're not like the boring girls from college. These ladies know how to have a good time.

Yes, we did, Derrick responded. We all had a great time! I'm guessing you didn't use any condoms.

Come on now, fellas, said Ricardo. I don't leave the house without them, as you know. I didn't ask if any of you needed one because I assumed you already had one. Anyway, mine are extra-large, and none of you would fit in them anyway. I'm going to unwind today, drink a little, and chill with a honey. I'd had enough for the three of us.

Omar responded, Me too, bro! Let's get this day started by getting these people out of here.

Everyone was awakened by the guys. Everyone was complimenting them on how much fun they were having. They all walked out the door and walked away. It's just the ladies and the guys with Belize. Everyone washed their hair! The ladies prepared a meal for the men and then left.

Belize said, Thank you, guys, for a great time! We'll see you all on the beach later. Omar, I will most certainly see you. You're incredible!

Give me a kiss, girl, said Omar, looking at Belize. I am the best in the world. Say it again so the fellas can hear you.

I already knew you didn't use condoms, Ricardo said. I'm certain of it. Did you manage to pull it off?

No way, Omar said. Both of them were clean. We took a shower together and got to work.

Guys, you all need condoms! Spencer advised. If you're not protected, you won't be sleeping with these ladies. They almost certainly do this to everyone they meet. You need to be more cautious. Let's get this place moving again.

I'm not drinking anything today, only water, Derrick declared. I'd had my share of alcohol for one night. I think I'm about to doze off again for a while.

Fellas, we have one more night, Ricardo said, and then it's back home for us. Drink up now, chump, because you're going to be drinking with us again later. We're on spring break!

The guys cleaned up the place and sat around watching TV, debating who got together with whom the night before. Derrick snored loudly as he fell asleep on the couch. The guys began threading his nose, ears, and tickling him, but Derrick refused to budge.

Guys, I believe I'm in love, Omar proclaimed. She treated me as if I were royalty. I adore my American women, but the Belizean women, in my opinion, treat you far better. This is an amazing weekend.

Man, you're in lust, not love! Ricardo responded. You have no idea who she is, and you fall in love with her in one day. What right do you have to say about American women?

I heard that women from other countries will treat you better than American women, said Omar. Not all, but the majority of American women are always tense about something. I know because I've had my fair share and am still single.

Ricardo said, "That sounds like a you problem, sir."

That's because you've never really tried to get to know a woman by staying with her for an extended period of time. I'm not trying to get held down because I'm in my twenties, said Omar, but I do need to sow my royal oats. In your twenties, I believe you should be having fun. You should be able to date as many people as you want as a single person without them questioning you.

Spencer said, Well, God is going to send me my wife. I'm not going to look for her. She'll just show up.

Ricardo said, Man, Spencer, you had so many women after you, but you kept turning them down. Let's be honest. Why are you still a virgin?

It's not the right time for me to be sexually involved with a woman, Spencer responded. I want to be able to know whoever I give myself to, we'll spend the rest of our lives together. I never want to think of having a disease or almost getting someone pregnant. I'll obey God because he told me to wait.

That's respect, bro, but I've got to get mine, said Ricardo. There are far too many women on this planet for us to have just one. There are some beautiful women on this planet. So for the time being, I'll keep looking until I find Mrs. Right.

You're a pack of hounds! Just be careful out there, said Spencer jokingly. You're all on vacation, and not using condoms is a big no-no. Y'all have reached adulthood! Either you want children or a disease. You'd better strap up, boys. The fact that they are pretty does not imply that they are healthy. Stop looking at their outward appearance and start looking at their inner selves.

Wow! responded Omar. We have a relationship expert, a pastor, and a motivator. Spencer, thank you for the information. I'll follow your instructions, cousin. Despite the fact that I am the oldest, I have always looked up to you.

Ricardo said, Let's go wake up that fool Derrick. Everywhere we go, he's dozing off.

The guys went upstairs and woke Derrick from his deep sleep. They all returned to the beach to walk around. They saw Belize and her girls, whom they were with the night before, under their tent, drinking and smoking with some other guys. Omar approached the tent and requested to speak with her.

Omar inquired, Who are these guys you're with, Belize?

Belize said, These are our friends from where we live. In our hometown, we all grew up with these guys.

Have you slept with any of these guys? Omar inquired.

Who are you to question who I've slept with? Belize responded. We aren't dating or seeing each other. We only hung out for one night. Yes, the person I'm sitting with is my ex-boyfriend, but we're still friends.

Omar said, I thought we were going to try to work something out so we could get to know each other, but I doubt it.

Belize responded, What we did was awesome, but you're not one of my best. We can be friends and hang out again, hopefully.

No way, no how! We will never see each other again, said Omar. Thanks, but no thanks! Keep in touch with your ex.

You're tripping, Belize said. Everything is fine. Regardless, it was a pleasure to meet you. There are always opportunities to reconnect down the road. I've got your phone number.

Omar responded, Lose it.

Omar was enraged at Belize for being under her ex-boyfriend. Because Spencer told them what to expect, the guys were teasing him. They went to a beach bar and ordered a couple of drinks. On the other side of the beach, there's a party going on. To get there, the guys had to walk a mile. After a few drinks, Omar was starting to loosen up.

Listen to me, no one gets in their feelings, said Derrick, as we meet some women here. We're on vacation, guys, we're on vacation.

Omar responded, Man, forget you!

Guys, this is our last night, so let's have some fun and get to know these women, said Ricardo.

Guys let's get started! It is time to return to the condominium.

Derrick and Ricardo were hugged by a group of women from their hometown. They didn't know them; it's just that they're both from the same town. Ricardo was a football starter, and one of the girls knew him, but they attended different high schools. They exchanged phone numbers. They returned to the hotel and began packing. They all had a flight back to school at 5:00 a.m. The flight for Omar was at 8:00 a.m.!

They sat back and talked about their weekend plans and upcoming graduation. They slept on the couch while still wearing their clothes. They all piled into an Uber truck and drove to the airport at 3:00 a.m. They checked their bags and proceeded to their respective flight terminals. Omar had to take a different route because he was returning home while they were returning to school. Before leaving Omar, they talked for fifteen minutes. They all hugged Omar and then walked away.

The guys were dozing off at their stations. There were a large number of people standing and walking around. Derrick was snoring loudly in the lobby, stretched out across two seats. Every single person in the room was staring at him. Spencer and Ricardo laughed as if they didn't recognize him. The people were becoming irritated by Derrick's snoring. One lady sat next to Derrick and made a loud noise before walking past him and kicking his feet to get his attention. Derrick leaped to his feet and scanned the area as if someone was attempting to rob him. They're giggling uncontrollably. Sir, we're trying to get some sleep, but you're snoring so loudly that we can't sleep.

Derrick responded, Lady, I recommend you walk away. It's too early for this, and I was the first to arrive. I'm tired, so I'm not paying attention to what you're saying. Put on some headphones or earplugs so you won't be able to hear what I'm saying. Yes, I snore, really loud! Occasionally, I can hear myself! Don't bother waking me up, lady. I'm just as tired as you are.

The guys boarded their planes and flew back to their homes. They walked down to the baggage claim area to retrieve their belongings before boarding a shuttle bus to their vehicle. Omar called the guys to let them know he's arrived safely. Derrick went to the restroom and came out enraged.

Hey, guys! I don't know what's wrong with me, Derrick said, but when I went to use the washroom, I had a burning sensation. It was scorching hot, and I was on my toes. I never had this feeling a day in my life. What do you believe the problem is?

Spencer responded that it sounded like gonorrhea or something. That's because you weren't wearing a condom, idiot. Make an appointment with a doctor and listen to what they have to say. I'm pretty sure that's it, or something close to it.

Damn you, bro! Ricardo claims that if I didn't have on a condom, I'd be on fire. Let's see what happens in a few more days. Nothing, hopefully! I'm still planning a visit to the doctor. That's terrifying.

I am pissed, said Derrick. I'm going straight to the doctor's office. Do not pass go. Do not collect two hundred dollars. I'm in there. My underwear is all yellow sticking to me. Rick, didn't you have oral sex with one of those girls? I know you did 'cause I seen you.

Ricardo said, Oh, so that's how we do? You put my business out there in the streets? Hell, I don't remember. I was too damn drunk to remember. Oh, yeah, I'm getting tested for real, since you reminded me.

Guys, you got to understand, said Spencer, you can catch a disease if you still have oral sex but still using a condom. You guys are too old not to know that. I guess it was the heat of the moment. That is why I am waiting until I get married. I'm not going through that mess. It sounds painful. He laughed.

Back at school, the guys returned to their apartment. Derrick quickly gathered his belongings and exited the apartment. He was sprinting down the stairwell when he tripped and fell. The other students in the building were startled by Derrick's behavior as they walked out of their first-floor apartment. He was on the verge of knocking them out. Derrick leaped to his feet, shook himself off, and exited the building. Derrick's whereabouts were unknown to the guys. They exchanged glances as they continued to unpack.

Spencer believed he will go to the doctor as he stated he would. Ricardo's response: I don't blame him. In a few minutes, I'll make an appointment for myself.

Omar called.

I don't know what's wrong with me, Omar said, but the devil is a liar. I wasn't planning on calling you, but I know I've felt this way before. I'm burning piss, and it's not a pleasant sensation. I'm about to call Belize and inform her of the situation. This wasn't a pretty sight the last time I saw it. I just wanted to keep you all updated on my situation.

Oh my goodness! Welcome to Derrick's world! Is it true that you all slept with the same woman? Spencer exclaimed. It appears that you did. Derrick, on the other hand, dashed out of here on his way to the doctor. I recommend that you do the same. Do not contact that lady just yet. Find out what's wrong with you first, then tell her so she can go to the doctor.

Okay, cousin. Omar said, I'm not going to call her. I'm going to make an appointment right now. This isn't a joke. It's painful.

You'll all listen to me the next time, Spencer said. Is it possible that you all slept with the same woman? This is unbelievable.

*****

Derrick arrived sweating, enraged, and perplexed at the doctor's office. What brings you in today, and how we can help you? asked the lady at the front desk.

I think I need to see a doctor right away. Derrick said, I believe a woman gave me a disease, and I need this taken care of.

The woman at the front desk shrugged and told Derrick to fill out paperwork so she can give it to the doctor. Derrick took the papers, completed them, and returned them to her. Derrick was told it would take a while because there was only one doctor, and she was dealing with patients who were in much more pain than he was.

Have you not heard a word I said, lady? I'm in real pain, Derrick said, and I don't think they're in this much pain. Is there any way you can put me in front of some of these people? They don't appear to be in any discomfort that I can see. I need to use the restroom, but I won't because I'll start a fire.

Derrick was advised to take a seat by the lady at the front desk, who assured him that he would be seen after other patients had been seen first. Derrick sat down and looked around, trying to figure out who was in more pain than him. Hours have passed, and he was becoming increasingly enraged. He leaped to his feet and stormed to the doctor's office in the back of the room. Derrick was knocking on all closed doors to find out where the doctor was. The doctor knocked on the door and asked Derrick how she can assist him.

Lady, what's taking you so long? said Derrick. I need to see you, but all you seem to be doing is talking to your coworkers. There are people waiting to see you out here. Why don't you all start calling each other names? I have to figure out what's wrong with me.

Derrick was told by the doctor that there were people ahead of him and that he will be seen. Security went to the back of the building to find Derrick, but he refused to leave until they saw him. Derrick was told by the doctor that she will see him in fifteen minutes. Derrick returned to the lobby and sat down for fifteen minutes. Derrick's name was called by the doctor. He leaped to his feet.

According to Derrick, it's about time.

Derrick's entire body was examined by the doctor. Derrick was told by the doctor that he was physically fit, but she want to know why he was here.

So, Doc, Derrick said, every time I use the restroom, I get a burning sensation. And it's a raging inferno. As if it were fire! What can you give me to put a stop to the burning?

Derrick was asked to remove his underwear by the doctor because she needed to check to see what kind of disease he had. Derrick had a panicked expression on his face! Derrick removed his underwear. The doctor donned her gloves and pulled out a long Q-tip to insert into Derrick. First, please go to the restroom and pee in a cup so that we can check for other diseases such as chlamydia and other infectious diseases. After that, you'll need to go to the lab for an HIV blood test just to make sure you're clear, but for now, let me begin.

Derrick responded, Wait a minute, Doc! What exactly do you intend to do with that long Q-tip? You're not going to put that inside of me! It's not going to happen, no way. Today is not that day.

Now is the time to act. You're a big boy, Derrick. It will happen quickly.

Derrick consented to the doctor swabbing him. She finished by giving him antibiotics and a shot in the buttocks to speed up the healing process. I'm finished, Derrick. You are now free to return home. When the results are in, I'll let you know, but in the meantime, I'll give you some medication to help you feel more at ease in the restroom.

Derrick responds, Thank goodness this is over.

Derrick returned home angry but relieved that the difficult part was over. Ricardo began to inquire about the steps that had been taken.

Look at you, bruh! You simply need to schedule an appointment and inform them of your actions, according to Derrick. Did you say you were wearing a condom? As a result, you should be fine. Oh, I almost forgot. You had oral sex with them, so it's likely in your mouth. You'll need a shot with that long needle in your mouth, just like I did in my butt. Now it's your turn, my friend.

Ricardo's response: Man, you're lying! They pricked you with a needle, and it was a long one? I'm now sweating profusely. I'm not sure I want to see a doctor. I've always been afraid of needles. I recall my mother being told by the doctor to take me back to the doctor when I turned fifteen so I could get my booster shot. I was relieved that my mother had forgotten because I had never reminded her, and she had never mentioned it to me.

Spencer spoke. And hopefully you learned your lesson about sleeping with women without protection. Rick, you should leave just in case. You don't want anything bad to happen to you in the future because you didn't get tested. Simply schedule an appointment and leave.

Okay, gentlemen, Ricardo declared, I'm going to do it for you all.

Believe me, bruh! Derrick responded, You're definitely not doing it for us! You're doing it for your own health. Simply leave. It's not that difficult. It's just that doggone six-foot needle. I'm joking, of course.

Ricardo said nervously, I'm making the appointment now.

The next day, Ricardo went to the doctor. He explained everything to the doctor. Ricardo received the same examination as Derrick and was sent home with antibiotics and a shot. Omar decided to call the guys and update them on his health.

Hello, guys! I just wanted to let you know that I went out and got a shot and some pills to help me get rid of the disease. Hopefully, you all followed suit. I'm still planning on speaking with Belize about getting her checked out. I'm still having feelings for her. I'm hoping she pays attention.

Man, that girl doesn't give a damn about you, Ricardo said, especially after she had sex with you and then with another guy the next day.

Well, one of us is going to be right, according to Omar. I still have to inform her.

2

After a few weeks, the guys were preparing for graduation. Spencer was rehearsing his speech in order to be named summa cum laude. He's rehearsing it with the guys, who were giving him feedback on how it sounded. When it comes to academics, Spencer was a stickler for detail. He'll study until his pupils dilate and his eyes turn red. Spencer was graduating with a 4.0 GPA and planned to pursue a career as an entertainment attorney.

Derrick said to Spencer, You need to take a break from your speech, and we still have to go shopping. I need to get some new clothes for graduation. I don't know what y'all are up to, but I'm off to the store. Are you all coming or what? Allow yourself a brief respite. Let's go.

Spencer responded, You're right! In two days, I'll be graduating. I know a nice boutique where we can go. It was mentioned to me by someone. Because it's a new men's store, we won't all be wearing the same outfit at graduation. Who knows when we'll cross paths again? Let's go for a ride, shall we? I'm in desperate need of a break. Thank you so much, Derrick! This speech has completely consumed my thoughts. It's causing me to have headaches. Let me take a Tylenol first, and then we can leave.

The men left and went to one of the new men's stores. With so many new graduates in the room, it was jam-packed.

I didn't think anyone knew about this place, Derrick said, but I see they had the same idea. Let's go shopping at the mall. I'm going to get myself simple shirt, tie, and slacks.

Spencer responded, What we have now may be better and less expensive than what we would have gotten at the boutique. Let's get something to eat before heading home.

The guys went to a fish restaurant for dinner. Lobster, shrimp, and scallops were ordered by all of them. They went home after having a few drinks with their meal.

It's the big day! The guys were getting ready for the day by putting on their new outfits. Spencer was both nervous and excited as he prepares for his summa cum laude commencement speech. The guys were leaving to go to their graduation. They made their way to the courtyards to join the other graduates in a procession. Spencer was invited to sit on the stage by the dean and president so that he can give his speech. Thousands of people were graduating, and everyone was lined up to walk in.

Throughout the ceremony, Spencer's parents kept calling out his name. A woman sitting next to Spencer's mother became irritated when she kept calling Spencer's name every five minutes. The lady stood up and demanded, angrily, that she be quiet.

Look, lady, you can move to another section, said Doreen. "I've been waiting for this moment my entire life. Now, either you're going to shout for your kid and get excited or look dumb like you are now. Get excited!"

The security guard went to Doreen's section and asked her to be quiet so that everyone could hear.

Whatever, Doreen responded. "It's possible for a brief moment, but it's not guaranteed. Perhaps you would be ecstatic if your child graduated summa cum laude. But I'll give it