“Drew, I get it. I wasn’t lecturing you. You know man, I see a big improvement with you. The fact you weren’t all over that new secretary of yours is a plus.” They laughed.
“Alison told me to get my shit together if—”
“When did you talk to her?”
“Dude what’s your problem, you the one that can call her at home anytime you want and hell she came to stay with you.”
“I haven’t spoken to her since I told her about my situation.”
Drew’s eyes widened. “You told her. How did she take it?” He leaned on the desk.
“She was all right with it, kind of hurt that I didn’t tell he the truth sooner.”
“That’s Alison, she’s a very understanding person and have a good heart. I hope that husband of hers doesn’t hurt her. You know he already done that with those pictures.”
“I know. But she’s a strong woman, she’ll be fine. Now what are you going to do?”
“I’m going to get my wife back.”
Tim left and Drew picked up the envelopes. One by one he opened them and to his surprise a note scribbled in red ink fell out.
“Drew you are on my mind every day and night, so much that I can’t sleep. Why don’t you see that we belong together? I try to think what the hell went wrong so that I can fix it. I think you’re going to break my heart, but please consider that if you leave, I’ll lose a part of me. I never loved as I love you.”
Drew tossed the note into the paper shredder and laughed. She was not going to get him this time with her delirious sayings.
His desk phone buzzed. Drew nearly jumped from his seat. “I’m sorry to disturb you, but your wife is on line one.”
In a hurry, Drew reached for the phone.” Thanks, Leah. Hey, baby, how are you? Hello…hello.” He quickly dialed Janice’s number.
“Janice, why did you hang up?”
“What are you talking about?”
“When I answered you hung up…”
“I guess your crazy-ass girlfriend is playing games because I didn’t call you.”
He was relieved that Janice hadn’t hung up, yet upset that Mallory was behind the confusion.
“Janice, she’s not my girlfriend and I’m sorry for thinking that you would do that. Since I have you on the phone can we talk?”
In a low voice Janice answered, “It’s time we do.”
Signs of good things were to come as Drew and Janice relived their past, dealt with the present, and prepared for the future.
Chapter 30
Alison
One thing Alison loved about living in Atlanta was little to no snow and moderate weather during the winter months. Just like when she was a kid in Mississippi, all year-round beautiful weather.
The winds were brisk. “Gusty winds, but mild temperatures in the low to mid-fifties will give Atlanta the coldest so far for the year,” the broadcaster, on the weather channel, said.
Alison held a cup of herbal tea and watched the leaves dance gracefully around the yard. She was startled by the chimes of the doorbell. Checking the video camera, she saw Tonya’s car and pushed the entry button. Alison sat the tea cup down, brushed back her hair, and smoothed her slinky red gaucho romper. The halter neckline outfit hugged Alison’s body. Beyoncé had nothing on this. As she walked to the door, the red crocodile open toe sling backs added more length to Alison’s legs.
“Tonya, what a surprise.”
“I hope this isn’t a bad time. You want to have lunch today?”
“Oh, no, I can’t my mom is visiting.”
“I completely forgot. Alan told me that.”
“Well, come, you can meet her.”
Alison led the way to the kitchen when she spotted Alan darting to the family room.
“Hi, Alan,” Tonya blurted, causing Alison’s mom to frown.
“Hey, Tonya, what’s up?” Alan said slowly.
Asia ran into Alan’s arms while Alison stopped in front of her mom.
Alison extended her hand toward Tonya. “Momma, I want you to meet—”
“So, this is the girl?”
“Momma, don’t start okay,” Alison whispered.
“I can’t start something if there isn’t anything to start.” She huffed at Tonya.
Tonya reached for her hand. “Mrs. Jackson, I’ve heard wonderful things about you.”
“Did you now, quite tell what would that have been?”
“Alison has mentioned how supportive you are and—”
“Did she also mention how protective I am? She tilted her designer glasses.
“I gathered that, Mrs. Jackson. I am a mother also and wouldn’t let anyone hurt my child.” Tonya uneasily smiled.
Thicker than pea soup, the tension had grown in the room.
“Alison is this the girl?” Her mother peered over the glasses.
“Momma.” Alison lowered her voice.
“Am I the girl? What’s going on?” Tonya looked around the room.
“Well, my daughter told me there was some girl hanging around her husband a lot and she didn’t feel comfortable with that?” Alison tried to pull her mother to the side. “So, I guess it’s you.”
It had become awkward for the four of them. Alison looked at her mother and gasped. Then she caught the sights of Alan. But it was Tonya’s stare that burned into Alison.
“Alison what did you tell your mother about me?” Tonya stood tall.
Everyone looked at Alison. She felt low.
“Alison, baby, tell the truth. You don’t like Alan spending time with that girl. It’s okay.”
“No, momma. You were wrong. That was between us and I could handle Alan.”
“Handle me. Wait.” Alan’s arms were up as to signal a field goal. “There’s nothing to handle here. Why are you talking to your mom about me…handling me—”
“That’s not how the conversation went Alan. Besides, I have told you I didn’t know why she always wanted to be around you—”
“Her wanting to be around me is not saying you had a problem with me.” Alan shook his head.
Tonya took Asia by the hand. “Alison, I thought we were friends. I sat here and cried to you about my problems—”
“Everybody, shut up!” Alison pointed to each one. “Tonya you need to leave. Momma, I need some time with my husband.”
Her mother adjusted the eyeglasses. “I told you the truth before and that girl wants your husband and she’s going to get him if you don’t wise up. It irks me that you choose not to know this. Baby, if you don’t open your eyes and wise up, that little hussy is going to sashay herself right into your bed, your house and your family.”
With her back to her mom, Alison asked her mother in a simple yet sad tone to leave.
***
Eyes filled with tears Alison looked at Alan. She didn't want to, but she had to talk to him. “Alan.” She placed her hand on his chest. “I know you’re angry, but I swear I was not talking behind your back.”
“If you had a problem with Tonya coming over here…why were you hanging out with her? Why did you want to have that party, with her, assisting?” He pushed her hand off his chest.
“Okay, I had a problem with her hanging around you all the time, but you surely didn’t seem to mind. I shouldn’t have to tell you; you know when and if a woman is getting too friendly. You should’ve said something.”
“Hold up…stop right there, “Alan’s voice deepened, “you’re not going to blame this on me when your mother blabbed what you told her. She’s the one who put you on blast.” He wiped his mouth. “Your mother has no respect for us or our home.”
“You don’t respect my mother or me.” Calmly, Alison spoke. “Maybe you need to leave and clear your mind.”
Alan’s head turned once then again, eyes squinted, and brows bunched. “I don’t believe this you putting me out my house? This is some crazy bullshit.”
“Alan please! Alison fanned her hand.
“I don’t know what’s gotten into
you, but I seriously hope you figure it out before it’s too late. Matter of fact when is your next doctor appointment?”
“What do you mean too late. And why do you need to know about my appointments. I’ve told you I can handle this.”
“I’m tired of this, your up and down attitude.” He went up the staircase and stopped at the landing, shrugged his shoulders and walked away.
Chapter 31
Alison
Weeks had passed and Alison was learning how to become a better her. She journaled every day and practice on reflection. Her mother was back home and called Alison every day reminding her of the big blow up. Alison, feeling more empowered and understanding her worth, peace, and happiness, she asked her mother not to call her every day and definitely not to bring up negative things.
“Alison, this is our fifth meeting now. How are you?”
“Doctor Rios, for the most part I’m okay. The talk therapy is working. I look back at my journal notes and a lot of my irritation comes from me. I need to speak up more and defend me. I have been trying to please and make everyone else happy. I internalized my anger.
“I see.” The doctor smiled. “When you say everyone…”
“Yes.” I have two friends, one being an ex-boyfriend, dumping his guilt and womanizing ways on me. He didn’t say it was my fault, but because he didn’t have me, but overall, he made decisions that caused a separation from his wife, baby, and baby momma drama. So, he calls me asking for forgiveness and advice.” Alison sighed. “Then my friend that saved me from the rape…he has HIV.” She clasped her hands together. Doctor Rios, I’m mentally drained. My husband and mother got into an argument over a female friend…well she’s not my friend anymore and I’ve asked my husband to stop seeing her as well.”
“It seems that you’re the glue to three important people, but you are correct. Your happiness comes first.”
Alison sat forward. “Doctor.” She exhaled. “I want to have a baby with my husband. I was being selfish, especially these last few months. My selfishness, I think rubbed off on Alan.”
Alison watched as Doctor Rios, nodded and jotted down notes.
“In what way do you think your selfishness rubbed off on Alan?”
“He loves me, I know. But he’s short tempered with me. I would be with myself as well. Alan is really a sweet loving guy.” Alison smiled. “When I think about the early days of us together, it was fun, exciting, spur of the moments, and quality time. I love having those moments, but I see my selfishness is getting in the way of our happiness. He has asked me many times about starting a family, but I kept avoiding it.”
“And now you’re ready for a change.”
Her eyes gleamed. “I am!” Alison stood. “I am, Doctor Rios. I know my husband and I can always have those happy moments…and with a baby. Life is too short and I don’t want my marriage to suffer.”
Doctor Rios laid her pen down, adjusted her glasses, and smiled. “Alison, over these last weeks, you have made progress…and without medication. I don’t believe at this time you need to go on with a Psychiatrist for medication. You and I can continue our sessions. I believe continuing with the journal and reflections, you will be better. We will continue the sessions on a monthly basis. Are you okay with that?”
Alison smoothed strands of her hair behind her ear. “Yes. Yes, I am.”
Chapter 32
Drew
“Tim this is the happiest day of my life. Janice is on her way over to help me pack. I’m moving back home, man.” Drew threw his hands to the heavens.
“Are you sure it’s going to work out…you’re ready to be faithful to your wife, dog?”
“Uh huh, I’m ready. Life is too short. Later I have to call Alison and tell her the good news. I promised her a call, promised her that I was going to get better.”
“I’m happy for you and Janice. What made her take your silly ass back?”
“We had a long talk and she said it was better to forgive and move forward than holding resentment. What I really think changed her mind was the magic stick I gave her after dinner one night. Woof, woof,” Drew barked.
“I’m sure that was it. She just let you back home like that?”
Drew laughed. “One of the requirements, I have to seek counseling about my ways. You know trying to get in bed with a lot of women. She doesn’t want to accept that I made peace with Alison and I’m done. I’m cured.”
“Cool. You better make it work this time.”
“I got this; everything is going to be fine.” Drew’s second line beeped. “Hold on Tim. Hello, okay come on up. Tim, that’s my baby. We’re going to get packing so I can get the hell out of here. I can’t wait to lay back in my bed, caressing my wife.”
“All right, later dude, and don’t forget to call Alison, I’m quite sure she’ll be happy to hear from you.”
***
Drew danced around the nearly empty apartment. He swooped down and back up, grabbed a pillow from the sofa, and pretended it was Janice’s head against his chest. He spun around and hugged the pillow tightly. Lightly he placed his lips on it, giving his lady love a delicate kiss.
He was distracted with a light knock at the door. As he placed the pillow down, he lowered the stereo volume. He opened the door and smiled. His heart beat faster. This was a new feeling, something he never felt before, something real.
Janice stood at the door dressed in a black Nike velvet suit and black gym shoes. Underneath the jacket she sported a white mid-riff top. Drew admire the washboard stomach.
“Come on in, Janice.” Drew struggled to maintain his urge to freak her right then. “Is that a belly ring?”
“You like it.” She leaned back.
“I love it. Do you have any more somewhere maybe I can find?”
Janice rolled her tongue around her lips. “Not yet.”
“You must be trying to make me hot up in here coming over in that body-hugging outfit. Don’t you know how cold it is out there?”
Janice laughed. “Cold is an understatement. I nearly froze my butt off trying to look good for you. I left my coat in the car.”
Drew pulled her close. “Baby, I don’t need you to impress me to the point you may get sick or something. I love you for you. I am sorry that I let my selfishness get the best of me. I promise, baby, I am going to be the man that God have in store for me to be.” Drew squinted back tears. “It means a lot that you forgave me, to give my stupid ass another chance, but I’m so thankful. I love you Janice.” He kissed her fully.
“You’ve already apologized more ways than. Let’s get this stuff out of here and back to the home where it belongs.” Janice pecked him lightly on the cheek.
Hours had passed with laughter, deep s tares, and a light snack. Drew and Janice carried boxes to their cars. As Janice walked up the steps, Drew there a fist-size snowball at her back. He picked up more snow and rolled it between his hands. Janice ran toward him and slipped.
“Are you all right?” Drew knelt to help his wife stand up.
“I’m fine,” Janice grabbed a handful of snow, “Sucker.” She covered Drew’s face. And trotted up the stairs.
“Wait till I get you.” Drew chased behind.
Janice said, “Drew, I’m sorry also. I love you, baby, and I’m glad we’re having another chance at love. This time we’re going to make it right.”
“We will make it better. Drew hugged her. “I’m going to be the best husband. You deserve it.”
A knock at the door. “Who could be knocking on this door. Who in the hell?” Drew pulled away from Janice.
“Don’t answer it maybe they’ll go away.”
“It’ll be quick. Let me see who it is.” Drew strutted to the door. Looking over his shoulder he winked and sent a floating kiss.
Once the door opened all smiles dropped. Janice’s hands rested on her hips, Drew’s eyes bulged, and the visitor blankly stared.
“What are you doing here?”
“I didn’t know you had
company, but I came to see if you thought about what we discussed, you know about the arrangement for the baby?”
“Mallory, this isn’t the right time—”
Janice said, “This is a good time, Drew. We all can get to the heart of the matter. “
Mallory’s head flipped around. “Excuse me, you don’t have anything to do with this. This is between Drew and I and only us. Why are you here anyway?”
“For your information this has everything to do with me since my husband is coming back home with me. You will hear from our attorney regarding visitation and so forth.”
“Drew, are you going to let this woman speak to me this way. I’m carrying your baby for God’s sake.”
“Mallory, that’s my wife and she has every right to be included in this. I already told you that nothing is happening between you and I. As my wife said, you will hear from our attorney. I won’t be black mailed into being with you or seeing my child.”
“If you don’t mind, Mallory.” Janice smirked. “You need to leave so that we can get back to doing what we were doing”
With her hand in the black winter coat, Mallory stepped closer to Janice. Out came a Pro Trophy Skinner knife. Blood gushed from Janice’s face. Mallory had sliced upward then across her face, missing Janice’s right eye by centimeters.
Drew dashed to Mallory. She turned with the knife pointed outward and Drew landed on it. Wounded in the side, Drew managed to stand slightly and continued his efforts. “You crazy bitch, you’re going to die for this.”
Mallory smiled. “I won’t be too sure of that.”
As Drew stumbled toward her, Mallory grabbed Drew around the neck and cut. Drew grabbed his neck, staggered backward, fell to the floor, and shook uncontrollably. Mallory knelt over him and continued to stab Drew continually until life in his eyes went dark.
Janice had managed to dial 911. She dropped the phone, call still connected, and crawled to Drew.
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