Character Assassination: I must die so he may live

By Chevelle Stewart Ford

From childhood Hope has always known that God had placed a calling on her life. Now what she wasn't prepared for was LIFE. And with one wrong decision it could take her to places she never dreamed of going.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Apr 12, 2021
• ISBN: 9781098034290

Book preview

cover.jpg

Character Assassination

I must die so he may live

Chevelle Stewart Ford

Copyright © 2020 by Chevelle Stewart Ford

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.

Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.

832 Park Avenue

Meadville, PA 16335

www.christianfaithpublishing.com

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Trustee Timothy C. Stewart Sr. (my dad)

Dr. Eva M. Stewart (my mom)

Mother Eva M. Gibson (grandmother)

Even though you’re gone and resting in the arms of God

I want to thank you for giving me the key to life, which is teaching me about God.

With that precious key I have unlocked, how to love better, how to push through difficult seasons, and to stand firm

And most importantly trust in the name of Jesus.

Introduction

It was September 30, a very exciting night for the Thompson family. Sophia Thompson, the matriarch of the family, would be presenting her daughter in-law with an award, at the Writer’s Award Gala.

When I first met this young lady, she was having her very first play performed at her church back in New Jersey." I was rather impressed by the level of professionalism that was shown. I couldn’t believe that this was her first showing, because it was organized so perfectly. So when I had the chance to speak to her, I asked about her management team and whom to contact for future showings. When she replied that it was just her, I found myself in a delusional state of mind. I couldn’t believe she was that talented as a writer and director and had no formal training in that area. I knew she was going places, and I wanted to see her succeed.

Unbeknownst to me, she would become my daughter-in-law and bless me with three wonderful grandchildren. And two months ago, she gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. So this is an honor to me to be able to present this award of the Best New Writer to my daughter in-law, Mrs. Hope Thompson.

Feeling nervous, she clutched her husband’s hand underneath the table while everyone was clapping. He tried to calm her down by telling her some kind words and assuring her that she deserved all the accolades that were given. Hope gently stood up dressed in a beautiful cream couture gown, her hair done in an updo bun, and her makeup was flawless. She was looking as nervous as she could be; her husband, Noah, stood up and gave her a big hug. As she walked to receive her award, she began to reflect on how she made it to this place in her life.

Chapter 1

Setting the Stage

Behold I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

—Psalm 51:5

It starts at birth; the training of a child, the path you set is the path they will follow. As the child gets older they will look for the same love and compassion that they receive from their parents. That’s why it is so very important that parents set a good example for their children. If you teach them that the world revolves around them, that is exactly what they will expect. A hard lesson to learn, but have no fear the world has no problem teaching it.

Hope, who is also known as Mamas by close friends and family, was sitting on her bed in her pink-and-white princess theme room playing dress up with Lola, a doll that was given to her by her brother Andrew. Drew (Andrew) bought Lola from a little boutique in Venice, Italy, while on a business trip. Lola had become Mamas’s favorite doll. She had soft brown skin, long black hair, and big brown eyes, and she came with three dresses that she could change Lola into.

Mamas liked that part a lot.

Mamas’s mother, Liz, came into her room and sat down on her plush pink chair. She looked at Mamas playing and said, You want to get the new shoes the doctor said you needed?

Mamas replied, Yes, my friend Mandy in class got new shoes yesterday, and they are really cute shoes, I think I want some like hers.

Well, we will have to see what kind the doctor said for you to have. Maybe they will be like Mandy’s, and maybe they won’t, but they will be good for your feet, she started tickling Mamas’s feet. "Then said Daddy will be here shortly, so pick up your toys and get your socks and shoes on so we can go, alright?

Mamas said, Okay, Mommy.

Soon after that, Jeremy arrived (Mamas’s father).

Hey, hey, is everybody ready to go?

Mamas came running down the stairs and jumped right into her dad’s arms.

Hi, Daddy, she said.

Hey, baby girl, you ready to go? Jeremy said.

Yes, Mommy, said I’m getting new shoes today, Mamas replied.

That is the plan, where’s Mommy? Jeremy uttered.

I’m right here, Liz said as she walked down the steps.

Jeremy said, Good, I can’t believe y’all are ready! I just knew I would be waiting.

They all went and got into the car. Just then, Liz remembered she forgot some mail she needed to drop off at the post office on their way to the shoes store.

Jeremy said, I knew this would happen.

Liz just looked at him and then got out of the car and hurried into the house to get the mail.

After returning to the car, she said, See, that didn’t take long, and you were complaining like it was going to take me a year and a day.

About fifteen minutes later, Jeremy pulled up into the parking lot of the shoe store.

Mamas said, This isn’t the mall!

No, it is not the mall, but this is where we have to get your corrective shoes, Liz replied.

Mom, I don’t like this store. It looks like old people come get their shoes from this store.

Mamas, come on and let’s see what shoes they have for you, Liz said.

As they walked into the store, Mamas’s face showed her disapproval of the store her parents brought her too.

She began to look around at all the shoes they had on display. The more she looked, the more unimpressed she became. She gently walked over to her dad and took his hand and said, Daddy, I don’t like the shoes in this store, can we please go to another store?

Mamas, stop it. We are not going to another store, Liz whispered to Mamas.

As she watched, this very tall man walked over to the cash register to check out an older couple. He was dressed in awful brown corduroy pants and a gold-and-green sweater. His hair was cut low, and he had a mustache that curled at the ends.

After the older couple left the store, he asked if he could help Mamas and her parents.

Liz said, The doctor referred us here because she has to wear corrective shoes. Then she went on to say she was hoping that eventually Mamas’s feet would have straightened out by themselves, like her brother’s. But they didn’t, so here we are.

He looked at Hope and said, "Hello, I’m Mr. Coffee. Your mom tells me you have to have special shoes.

I guess so, but they don’t look special to me, Mamas said quietly.

Mr. Coffee went on to say, Yes, they will help your feet turn into the right position.

Mamas just sat very quietly.

You’re a pretty little girl, what’s your name?

Mamas said in a very low voice, Hope Richards.

Mr. Coffee asked, How old are you, Hope?

I’m seven years old, she said, still in this quiet voice.

Really, I have a niece named Hope, and she is almost your age, she is five years old, Mr. Coffee said. I need for you to help me. Do you think you can help me?

Mamas looked at her mom.

Mr. Coffee said, I need for you to be a big girl and step up on this funny-looking stand, push your feet all the way back so I can measure your feet.

Mamas walked over and put her foot all the way back on the stand. Mr. Coffee showed her the numbers that measured her foot.

You’re a size 1 regular. Great job! She gave a small smile. Now for the fun part, Mr. Coffee said.

He showed them the shoe sample and asked, What color would you like? We have red and black, and we also have blue and white.

Mamas started shaking her head no to all of them, and she said, I want those black ones over there.

Liz said, No, Mamas, you have to get this style so your feet can be corrected. Then Liz turned to Mr. Coffee and said, We will take the red ones, that’s her favorite color.

Mamas looked at her dad, but Jeremy wouldn’t look her way. Mamas felt like if she could get her father’s attention, she wouldn’t have to wear those shoes. Then Mr. Coffee went in the back and came out with a box of shoes.

He said, Hope, come sit down so I can put your shoes on your feet, we have to make sure they fit your feet well.

Mamas walked over as slowly as she possibly could, and then she sat down and allowed Mr. Coffee to put the shoes on her feet.

Wow, will you look at that, they really look great on your feet.

Mamas just looked at him without any expression on her face. Her dad walked over to her and gave her a gentle squeeze on her hand. Jeremy was feeling really bad for his daughter by this time, and he still avoided looking her in the face. She was feeling very disappointed with her dad for not coming to her rescue. After that, Jeremy let go of her hand and went over to pay for Mamas’s shoes. Liz turned to Mamas and told her to say thank you to Mr. Coffee for all his help. Mamas reluctantly said thank you. Everybody could feel the coldness in Mamas’s thank you. Mamas was fuming inside and wasn’t afraid to show it; her parents thought she just might blow up at any given moment now.

The very second they got outside, Mamas began crying like someone had really hurt her. When they got in the car, Mamas took one shoe off and threw it up front with her parents.

Quietly, Liz said, Jeremy, she threw her shoe up here. As she was saying that, Mamas threw the other one also.

Jeremy said, Mamas, would you like to go to McDonalds?

Mamas said, Yes, while she was still crying.

Well, you will have to put your shoes back on, said Jeremy.

So she reached up front grab her shoes and put them back on her feet.

Later that evening, her brother Malachi and his friend Robbie were sitting in the den playing games.

Mamas walked into the den and said, Can I play?

No, Mamas, you don’t know how to play this game, said Robbie.

Yes, I do, I probably play better than you with your big head, Mamas said. Then she snatched Robbie’s hat off his head and threw it on the floor.

Robbie said, Stop, girl, man, why are you so bad?

Malachi spoke up and said, Mamas, stop playing and give him his hat back.

No, not until you let me play, said Mamas.

Mamas started punching Robbie in the stomach.

Robbie said, Mamas, stop hitting me, I’m going to tell your mom you keep hitting me and you took my hat.

Tell, I don’t care, she said, then Mamas kicked him in the leg.

Stop kicking me, girl, with those hard baby shoes, Robbie said.

They are not baby shoes! hollered Mamas. Robbie started laughing. Mamas said, It’s not funny! And she kicked him again and again.

Robbie said, Stop, girl. Yo, Mal, get your sister.

Mamas, stop it right now! said Malachi.

Mamas said, He shouldn’t be talking about my shoes. She started crying loud so her mother would hear her. It’s not my fault these shoes are ugly! Mommy, Mommy!

Liz walked in the den. What is going on?

Mamas is being bad again, kicking Robbie, Malachi said.

Mamas, you don’t kick, your shoes belong on the floor for walking, yelled Liz.

It’s your fault for making me get these ugly shoes, said Mamas. She ran to her bedroom.

Liz came in her room to comfort her. Mamas, what’s wrong?

Mamas say, Robbie was laughing at my shoes, he said they look like baby shoes.

Liz said, Awww, Mamas, don’t you listen to him, and you should have kicked him for saying that about your shoes. Next time, you say these shoes are very expensive and a lot of people can’t afford them.

Okay, Mommy…that’s exactly what I’m going to say, said Mamas.

Malachi walked into the bathroom to take a shower, then he headed straight to Mamas’s room,

Mamas, go in that bathroom and get all those toys out of the tub!

Liz looked at him while holding Mamas.

Mom, she has all of her toys all over in the bathroom!

Mamas snuggled closer to her mom.

Malachi said, Don’t look at Mommy, go clean that bathroom!

Liz said, Why are you hollering at her like that?

Mom, I want to take a shower, I have somewhere to go.

Alright, Malachi, I’ll get the toys and clean the tub out, just give me a minute, said Liz.

Mom, why do you and Dad always allow her to get away with stuff? She is big enough to remove her toys. She is the one that put all that stuff in there in the first place, said Malachi.

Liz said, Malachi, leave her alone. You know Robbie hurt her feelings by talking about her shoes…and how old is he?

Mom, they were playing. She was the one messing with him, she kept snatching his hat. And I told her to stop. Robbie started laughing, and then she kicked him. He said, ‘Ouch, girl, them baby shoes hurt.’ That’s when she got mad and kicked him for the third or fourth time, then ran off crying to you, Malachi replied.

Liz went on to say, Y’all are too old to be fighting with her.

Mom, did you not just hear what I said? Malachi said.

I heard you, Malachi, let me just clean the tub out for you. Everybody want to say Mamas is so spoiled, but truth be told, all of y’all are somewhat spoiled, said Liz.

After cleaning out the tub, Liz called Mamas and said, Were you bothering Malachi and Robbie while they were playing the game and taking Robbie’s hat?

Yes, I was only playing with him, replied Mamas.

Mamas, if you want people to respect you, then you have to respect others. From now on, when Malachi have company, don’t be in there bothering them. Now you owe Malachi and Robbie an apology.

Yes, Mommy.

Mamas walked over to Malachi. Malachi, I’m sorry for leaving my toys in the tub.

And… Malachi said.

What! I said sorry! Mamas said loudly.

How about ‘and you won’t do it again,’ Malachi said.

Why you so mean to me, Malachi? Mamas said angry

I’m not mean, I just want you to do what is right, that’s all. Don’t look at me like that, girl.

Mamas just turned and walked away.

A week later, Mamas came home from school, and Drew, who was her favorite brother, was there with his fiancée, Amber. Mamas walked in the door, and Drew grabbed her and picked her up, like he always had since she was a little baby. While he was picking her up, she happened to glance over at Amber, whom she really didn’t like.

Amber said, Drew, put her down, she is not a baby.

Mamas gave her a warring look, to let her know she was overstepping her boundaries.

No, you didn’t look at me like that, little missy. Okay, when you get older and have a boyfriend, you will be feeling a lot differently about being picked up like some baby.

Mamas said, I don’t have a boyfriend, so I don’t have to worry about that.

Liz heard what was being said, so she jumped into the conversation and said, Amber, you were about to show me the dresses you picked out for the wedding.

Yes, here they are, replied Amber.

Oh my, they are a little revealing, don’t you think? Liz said.

Well, first I want all my girls to look really amazing and be able to wear the dresses for another occasion. These dresses were very expensive, and I didn’t want to hear nobody’s mouth about nothing. Now these ones are the junior bridesmaids’ dresses, as you can see, they are a lot like the other dresses, just covered up.

Liz said, Is this the one Mamas will be wearing?

Yes, she and my niece Nelly. You know, I was having the hardest time trying to pick my colors, because I didn’t want it to clash with anyone’s skin tone. I have eight bridesmaids not including my junior bridesmaids, and they all have different complexions. I have light ones, dark ones, and medium ones. My cousin said I should have had a rainbow wedding.

Well, I do like the colors you pick, and they will work with every skin tone. Now, about a rainbow wedding, if done correctly, they turn out beautiful. One of my friend’s daughters had a rainbow wedding last year, and it was absolutely gorgeous. The little flower girls had a mixture of different color rose petals, Liz said.

Wow, that does sound like it was really pretty, said Amber.

Mamas was a flower girl in that wedding also, she had to wear a purple dress.

Mamas said, What color am I wearing in this wedding?

Amber said, You will be wearing mint green, it’s like a light green.

Mamas replied, I know what mint green looks like, I just don’t know what it’s going to look like with my skin tone.

Liz said, You have a mint green dress you wear to church sometimes.

Oh yeah, I do, I guess it’s okay then. Drew, do you like the colors?

Yes, Mamas, the colors are nice, and you are going to look like a princess in your dress.

Mamas said, Yeah, like the Princess in my book.

Then Amber said, Drew, you always spoiling her, that’s not good.

Mamas said, Amber, don’t be jealous.

Liz said, I’m sorry, Amber. Mamas, that wasn’t a nice thing to say, apologize to Amber.

I’m sorry. Then Mamas walked off to her room mad.

Amber, I don’t know what’s wrong with her sometimes. The older she gets, the more outspoken and demanding she becomes. It’s really strange because she doesn’t always behave like that, but lately she is getting out of hand. One day I started thinking she just might be one of those little girls that come on their menstruation early, because she was doing the most.

Drew said, Mom, she’s the baby, that’s all.

Yeah, but it’s time to break her out of thinking it always has to be about her, said Liz

She will grow out of it as she gets older, said Drew.

Amber said, Drew, you need to stop taking up for her, because she isn’t going to ever grow up.

That isn’t going to ever happen, that’s my baby sister and my only sister, and I will always be there for her no matter what, Drew said.

Then you should let her move in with you, jokingly said Liz.

She can anytime.

Amber tilted her head over, as to say No way.

Drew looked at Amber and said, Babe, now, you know how I feel about my baby sister.

Mrs. Richards, we have another stop to make, so we will be going.

Just then Drew got up.

Drew, where are you going?

I’m going to say goodbye to Mamas, replied Drew.

Liz said, He always had a special love for her, you do know, right?

Know what? Amber said.

Drew was born with a twin sister, and she died at birth, Liz said.

No, he never shared that with me, Amber replied.

They stopped talking when Drew entered the living room.

Drew asked, Mom, have you spoken with Jay?

Yeah, he’ll be down in a couple of weeks, when they throw your bachelor party, Liz said.

Where there won’t be having any strippers at! Amber commented.

You real funny, Amber. I am not in control over how they want to celebrate, but I am in control of me. Bye, Mom. Amber, I don’t want to hear nothing about strippers, Drew stated.

The day of the wedding, Mamas was feeling a little sad. Her dad came into her bedroom to wake her up.

Mamas, it’s time to wake up, he said.

She turned over and said, I don’t feel like getting up, it’s too early, Daddy.

Mamas, your brother is counting on you, now you don’t want to disappoint Drew, right? Jeremy said.

I’m getting up, okay? Mamas replied.

Then her mom walked into her room. Mamas, here’s your clothes, but don’t put your dress on just yet, I want you to eat first.

Mom, I haven’t even went into the bathroom to get washed yet, Mamas replied.

Well, hurry up, what are you waiting for? We need to be at the church on time, Liz complained.

Why is everybody rushing me, Daddy just woke me up, man! Mamas said.

Hope, just drop the attitude, we are not dealing with no smart-mouth today. Look at me, and I mean what I am saying… Do you hear me, Mamas? Liz said.

Mamas said, Yes.

Mamas, you answer when someone is speaking to you, Liz said.

Liz, don’t you think you are being a little hard, I just woke her up. Let her get herself together before you start going in on her. Now I know it’s our son’s wedding day and you’re nervous, but you have got to calm down. Rest assured, it’s going to be a beautiful day, and everything is going to work out as planned, Jeremy stated.

Liz replied, I hope so. Drew and Amber worked so hard trying to please everybody within the wedding party, they deserve a very nice day.

Amber looked beautiful as she walked down the aisle. And the way Drew looked at her every women’s heart in the building could had be convicted with envy. Jeremy and Liz were waiting to see what Mamas would do, but to their surprise she was the perfect little flower girl.

Later at the wedding reception, everybody was dancing and enjoying themselves.

Liz said, Awww, they look so happy.

Drew walked over to his mother. Mom, may I have this dance?

Liz replied, Of course you may.

Mom, you look beautiful, and I don’t know how I would have pulled this off without the guidance and understanding from you and Dad.

Baby, you don’t have to thank me. You’re my son, and I love you, and there is nothing I wouldn’t do to see that look on your face. It’s absolutely priceless. I know you’re going to be a great husband, and I do believe the lady you chose is worthy of being your wife.

Mamas came walking up. Drew.

Hey, Mamas, what’s going on, are you having a good time? said Drew.

Yes, but I want to dance with you, Mamas said.

Come on, little sis, let’s do this! said Drew.

Jeremy walked over to Liz, and they started dancing. Jeremy told Liz, Look at Malachi talking to that girl.

Isn’t that Thomas’s daughter? she said.

Liz, don’t start being mother hen, he’s a young man, what do you expect? Jeremy said.

Later that night, when they came home, Liz asked Mamas if she had a nice time.

And Mamas went on to explain, Yes, and one day I’m going to get married, and I want a wedding dress just like Amber’s. It was so long and pretty, she said.

Liz said, Amber’s nephew Mickey looked so handsome in his little tuxes.

He’s so adorable, and Nelly looked nice in her dress too, said Mamas.

Are y’all going to talk about the wedding all night, said Jeremy.

No, because Mamas is going to take her bath and get in the bed, Liz replied.

Mom, can I just take a shower tonight? asked Mamas.

Yes, you can, and then get in the bed, we have church in the morning, said Liz.

Mamas just nodded her head and went to her room to get ready to take her shower.

While Mamas was in the shower, Jeremy said, Hey, what’s going on with our daughter? I was for sure she was going to perform some kind a way at the wedding.

"All I can say is, thank you, Lord, and our little girl is growing up. She knows her Drew loves her and he will always be there for her.

So what time should they be arriving at hotel?" said Liz.

Their plane should be landing around eleven. Don’t worry, they are on their honeymoon, and they will give us a call after they get settled and spent some time enjoying each other. Come on, you remember how it was for us, and to put things in better perspective, you remember how Jay and Brandi did it? We didn’t hear from them for about two days later.

Liz said, You’re right, I was so mad with them. I guess I’ll have to put everything out of my head and just be patient and wait for them to call.

Yes, and just trust Jesus to protect them, replied Jeremy.

Sunday morning, they had a visiting pastor at the church.

Elder Brice I enjoyed the message so much, then again you always come with a powerful Word, said Jeremy.

I only say what God needs me to say, you know it’s all God. It’s his Word, all I am is a vessel that he uses to deliver what he want his people to hear, and that’s including me. Because I be stepping on my toes in the midst of me preaching and teaching, said Pastor Brice.

Jeremy said, I hear you, Elder. It’s just like he said, his Word is a like a two-edged sword, it cuts both ways.

Ain’t he alright, said Elder Brice.

Jeremy responded, Yes, he is.

So I heard your son got married yesterday, said Elder Brice.

Yes, he did, Elder, said Jeremy.

Then Liz walked up and said, Sweetheart, I have your plate ready downstairs. Now, Elder, I know you said you needed to get on the road and that you wouldn’t be staying to eat. So I made everyone a plate to take with y’all.

Thank you, Sister Richards, said Elder Brice.

You are welcome, and till the next time. Where are your sons? said Liz.

They are already in the van waiting on me, so I better be going, bye, replied Elder Brice.

Jeremy said, May God grant you traveling mercies.

As Elder Brice was walking down the church steps, he was saying goodbye to the children. He noticed Hope jumping from one step to the other, and he turned and said, What’s your name?

Hope replied, Hope.

Elder Brice said, You’re going to do great things for God.

Hope said, Yes, and continued jumping from step to step.

Remember that, okay, because God won’t forget you said yes to his will, said Elder Brice.

I won’t, she said.

After Elder Brice pulled off, Liz came outside and said, Come on, kids, time to eat. The food is getting cold. Let’s go, Marcus and Rion. Don’t make me tell the pastor y’all are not listening, because you know what he is going to say.

I know what he is going to say, said Rion.

What is he going to say, Rion? said Liz.

He’s going to say that we should be obedient, he said.

That’s right, so let’s go, said Liz.

Later on that night, before bed, Liz was in Mamas’s room.

I’m going to do great things for God, said Mamas.

That’s very nice, now get your clothes ready for school tomorrow, said Liz.

Mamas said, I think I’m going to wear this outfit with these shoes. You know, Elder Brice asked me if I was going to do great things for God. I said yes, and he said don’t forget you said yes to God’s will.

Liz said, When did he ask you that?

When he came out the church to go home, said Mamas.

Do you know what that means? said Liz.

Yes, I have to preach the Word of God, and the people will get saved and be better people and go to heaven when they die, right?

Liz just said yes, tucked Mamas in the bed, and kissed her good night.

Chapter 2

First Step

He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

—Proverbs 13:24

We as parents must discipline our children and not leave it to the world to shape what God has entrusted us to do.

Over the years, Mamas, who was now called by her real name, had grown into this beautiful young lady. She was in high school and learning how to take her first steps toward adulthood.

Sitting in math class, a new student walked in, and Mrs. Morris told him to take a seat next to Hope.

Hope, can you share your book with him, and what is your name, young man?

Mitchell Anderson, he said.

Then Mrs. Morris went on to say, Can someone tell me the answer for number 5? Todd raised his hand. Okay, Todd, what did you get for number 5?

Todd said, I have x=14.

Did anyone come up with a different answer? No one spoke up. Good, because it’s correct. For homework I want everyone to finish the rest of the problems. Come on with all these sad faces. There are only six more problems. Now, don’t show up without your homework completed, I’ll see everyone tomorrow?"

Nay walked up on the side of Hope. Hey, girl, and who was that fine brother?

Hope said, Please, Melton is the only man for me.

Yeah right, girl, I was watching you checking him out on the sneak tip.

No, I wasn’t, and don’t be starting any rumors because you know how jealous Mel gets.

Soon, as she stopped talking, Melton walked up.

Hey, babe, you ready to go to lunch? asked Melton.

Yeah, I’m ready, you coming, Nay? said Hope.

No, I have a makeup test to do for Mr. Brie, in the library. You know I hate staying after school, so when he agreed for me to do it at lunchtime, I jumped right on it, said Nay.

Alright, I’ll catch up with you later, said Hope.

Nay said, Bye.

While Hope and Melton were walking to the lunch room, Hope said, Melton, we have to come to terms with the colors we will be wearing to prom. My mom is taking me to get my dress this weekend, so what’s up?

Melton replied, I don’t know, why we can’t wear the school colors?

Are you kidding me, the school colors? Really, Melton, Hope said.

You must have forgotten your man is MVP on the team I’m representing. So you need to get onboard with your man, Melton stated.

As they sat next to Laurie to eat their lunches, Melton said, Tell her Laurie!

Laurie said, Tell her what?

Melton went on to say that she needed to get onboard with her man.

Hope chimed in, Girl, please don’t listen to your crazy cousin, he wants us to wear blue and white, quote and quote, school colors just because he is MVP of the basketball team.

Laurie said, That’s not a bad idea, I say go for it.

Oh, I don’t care what she wears, but I will be rocking the blue and the white. That’s the bell, babe, see you later, said Melton.

Melton, I’m still not wearing those wack colors-, Hope hollered down the hall.

When Hope got into class, Ms. Dillard asked her, Hope, can you take these papers to the office?

Yes, she replied.

While walking down the hall, Hope saw Melton. Mel, what were you doing?

Nothing! replied Melton.

Why were you all close up on that nasty heifer, and she sure was in a hurry after I walked up, stated Hope.

Why you getting all loud making something out of nothing, plus I got you, what I need with her? said Melton.

Hope replied, You tell me, you were the one standing all close up on her.

I don’t have time for this, I have to get to my class, Melton said as he bent over and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

Hope said, This is not over!

Melton replied, Don’t I know, as he walked down the hall to get to his class.

The next day, Mitchell walked up to Hope and asked, How are you doing?

Hope said, Fine, and she kept walking.

You are just going to keep walking, hold up. I want to ask you a question, said Mitchell.

Hope stopped. What is it? she asked.

I was wondering if you would like to go to the prom with me, Mitchell said.

She smiled and then said, You do know I have a boyfriend, right?

Mitchell said, I really don’t care about your boyfriend, but I am very interested in you.

I’m flattered, but no, I already have a date for the prom, Melton Gibson, the basketball player, said Hope.

Okay, Ms. Hope, I’ll respect that, he replied.

As Hope walked into class, Nay said, Did Mr. Fine just ask you to the prom?

Yes, he did, but I won’t be telling Melton this one, because he just might have something for that butt, replied Hope.

They laughed, and Hope looked back at Mitchell and smiled.

Hope said, Hey, Mitchell, I know someone that is available, are you interested?

Only if it’s you, Mitchell replied.

I told you, I already have a boyfriend, said Hope.

I didn’t ask to be your boyfriend, I only asked to take you to the prom, and I heard about the disagreement you two had in the hallway yesterday. Now if that’s the kind of boyfriend you want, hey, I tried to give you a way out, Mitchell replied.

Who is running my business to you? Hope replied.

Mitchell said, Don’t worry about how I know, just know I do. Dana is a really cool girl, she gets along with all the guys, especially basketball players. Isn’t your boyfriend a basketball player? That’s right, you did tell me that.

Mrs. Morris said, Alright, everybody stop talking and pass up your homework, and if you don’t have it, you will be staying after school until it’s done.

Hope turned and whispered to Mitchell, For you to be new to the school, you know a whole lot.

Mitchell said, If you had taken the time to get to know me, you would understand.

Understand what? That you are all up in my business and someone is given you all the 411 about my relationship? Hope said.

Look, I’m not your average new brother on the block, Mitchell said.

What does that even mean? Can you just stop with the riddles and tell me which one of your cousins is running my business down to you? Hope said.

Now you want to be in my business. Don’t worry about how I know, I just know, and leave it alone, said Mitchell.

Really, Mitchell, you are not that important to me, Hope said.

The bell rang, and Mitchell said, Maybe not right now, but you might be surprised with what the future holds.

As they were leaving class, Hope looked at Nay and said, That dude is crazy, and he is starting to work my nerves.

Melton met up with Hope at her locker after school. Hope, can I come over tonight?

Melton, do I look stupid or something?

Hope, it wasn’t like that. Dana asked me to hook her up with Devon.

Hope said, Melton, stop lying, I know that is not true. Devon ain’t a bit interested in that hoe.

Why does she have to be a hoe? said Melton.

First, I don’t know why she’s a hoe, maybe her daddy left her when she was a baby, and why are you defending her?

Melton replied, I’m not… I’m just saying…

Hope said, You ain’t saying nothing, matter of fact, take her to the prom, because I have another offer.

Hope, don’t play games with me, Melton said.

I’m not, now take me home! She said.

Baby, I can’t. I have practice in fifteen minutes, he pleaded.

Are you telling me no? she said.

Hope, you… Man, he yelled!

They got in the car, and he took her home.

While they were driving, Melton said, Hope, I’m sorry for talking to Dana, and I really love you, do you forgive me?

Melton, don’t try and play me, you were trying to do more than just talk to her, said Hope.

So that’s what you really think of me? he replied.

Hope just got out and slammed his door.

When Melton got back to the school for practice, Mr. Green said, Glad you could make it, and you’re five minutes late, give me ten laps.

Melton said, But, Coach!

Mr. Green said, You know the rules, no special treatments. I expect you to be on time just like everybody else. Now give me my laps before I double them.

After practice, the guys were in the locker room talking.

Romeo said, So did you get some of that?

Man, I started talking to her, and here comes my girl, ‘Why you talking to that hoe?’ Now I have to hear her mouth about this probably for the rest of the year, replied Melton.

I don’t know how you deal with Hope, she’s cute and all that, but that mouth, I couldn’t handle it, said Tyrone.

Melton responded, That’s my baby, I love that girl. She’s not always like that, she really has a sweet side.

Rome said, Yeah right, she was probably the reason why you were late for practice.

They all started laughing.

Yeah, but I’m right, ain’t I? said Romeo.

I don’t care what y’all say. I love her, and I bet all of y’all would probably try to get with her if I wasn’t with her, said Melton.

Boy, that girl got you whipped! said Tyrone.

Whipped how? She isn’t that kind of girl, said Melton.

Romeo said, What, you been with her for almost two years, and she hasn’t let you have none.

Melton replied, I respect her for not being a slut, one day she is going to be my wife. Why, you think I was going to get with Dana?

Tyrone said, Romeo talking all that stuff, but I bet you and Monica ain’t doing nothing either.

What, man, I always have a smile on my face, said Romeo.

After Melton left the school, he decided to go over Hope’s house and knocked on the door.

Who is it? said Liz.

It’s me, Melton Mrs. Richards, replied Melton.

Liz opened the door. How are you, young man?

I’m okay, is Hope here? he asked.

Yes, have a seat. Mamas, Mamas, Liz called to Hope.

Yes! Hope replied.

You have company, Liz said.

Hope came downstairs and looked at Melton. What are you doing here?

Melton answered, I needed to talk to you.

Hope looked at her mom. Mom.

Liz said, Okay, Mamas [Hope], I’ll give you some privacy.

Thanks, Mom. Didn’t I ask you not to come, so why are you here? Hope said.

He handed her a gray box with a pink ribbon tied around it.

Hope said, What is this, Melton?

As she opened the box, she said, Oh wow, these are very nice earrings, thank you, but you still haven’t answered my question.

Melton went on to say, Hope, I love you, and I don’t want to lose you over some girl I don’t even care anything about. I’m hoping we can move past this please.

Hope said, Okay, I’ll try and put it behind us, but we are wearing emerald and beige to the prom.

Melton replied, That’s not fair, but okay, and do you know the coach made me run ten laps for being late?

Hope laughed, and Melton said, Oh, that’s funny.

Hope said, Too me, it is very funny.

Melton said to her, Why are you so mean?

I’m not mean, you shouldn’t upset me. Now would you like to watch a movie? Hope asked.

Melton replied, Sure, whatever you want to do.

Good, that’s what I like to hear.

It was prom night, and Melton had just arrived at Hope’s house to pick her up. Jeremy called out to Hope.

Mamas, your date is here.

Liz answered, Okay, she will be down in a minute.

Melton took a seat on the couch alongside Mr. Richards. When Hope came down the steps Jeremy, and Melton both stood up.

Jeremy said, Baby girl, you look beautiful.

Thank you, Daddy, Hope replied.

Well, Melton, you look very handsome, Liz told Melton.

Thank you, Mrs. Richards, Melton replied.

Mom, don’t give him any more compliments, he’s just showing out with the hat and cane, Hope said.

Stop it, Mamas, it’s befitting for the occasion, Liz said.

This is for you, said Melton, and he began to put the corsage on her wrist.

Thank you, and it’s even the right color, said Hope.

Why wouldn’t I get the right color? said Melton.

"Because