(A/N: Ahhh it feels good to get back to grinding these chapters out! Did y'all miss me? ;) )

Michael

Sunday, July 25th

6:38am

     If somebody had asked me was everything I had to deal with worth being an artist, I would tell them 'Hell yeah' with a quickness. Right now though, I'm not loving this whole waking up early shit.

     "MICHAEL, I DONE CALLED YOU FIVE TIMES ALREADY! GET YO ASS UP SO I CAN GIVE YOU YOUR SCHEDULE!"

     ... Maybe I can still find that duct tape I used to keep in my car.

     Groaning, I slowly sit up, my head feeling groggy. I silently thank God for the fact that the curtains were closed, saving me from being blinded by the sunlight. I'm also glad I had enough sense to take a shower before bed last night. Seeing as I'm too lazy to do it now, Imma just change and go straight downstairs.

     Though the room usually smells like Gabi's favorite lotion, the smell of bacon is calling to me.

     I make my way downstairs, stumbling a few times. I walk into the kitchen and see the usual. Amiyah at the counter, with her agenda, smartphone, and pocketbook out and ready, and Gabi moving around the kitchen making breakfast with the radio playing softly in the background. Sounds like today is old school R&B day.

     I go straight to the refrigerator to get my glass of orange juice, then head over and lightly peck Gabi on the cheek. Once I have a seat by Amiyah, I ask her to run the schedule by me.

     "Well," she starts. "You got a meeting with DJ and a booking agent at 9, probably gonna talk 'bout you doing some shows or something. Then you're free until your mama's dinner later on."

     I nod, letting it sink in. Another slow day today. I'm gonna make sure it counts, especially since I'll be seeing my brothers at the dinner.

     I mumble a thank you when Gabi sets down my plate, scrambled eggs with smoked sausage mixed in, 2 pancakes and bacon on the side. The whole pack.

     Amiyah snorts when she sees my plate, even though Gabi had almost filled hers up just as much.

     "Just read me the headlines, Amiyah." I say before she can bash my breakfast. Gabi chuckles at us, sitting down with her own plate. While I'm already tearing through my pancakes, Amiyah starts to read off her phone.

     "Not much to read here, either. You got some shout-outs on Instagram from that picture of you and Gabi that Melanie posted, but this other one is from some gossip blog. Sayin' that you gonna be a one hit wonder or some shit. It ain't nothing to worry about though."

     I nod again, relaxing now that that's out of the way. I know it looks vain to read about what the media is saying about me, but it keeps me on top of my reputation, and helps me figure out how I approach the public. Not all of them are good, but those are mostly from tabloids. I haven't come across anything serious yet.

     I'm already finishing the last of my bacon when Amiyah nudges Gabi with her elbow.

     "Ooooh, look here, girl! They even wrote something about you, too."

     Gabi let's out a gasp, her eyes going big. "You're kidding me, right?"

     Both of us lean over and see a picture used from the People Magazine shoot Gabi and I did the other day.

     Amiyah shakes her head. "Nah girl, this is all you. It's short, but it's from E! News online. Here, let me read it. 'It's not everyday someone makes a musical impact when they've only done a miniscule number of performances -- or in Gabrielle Washington's case, only one. This violet-eyed beauty first hit the scene as rising star Michael's singing partner at the latest BET Awards. Since then, rumors swirled around about a secret relationship between the two, which was confirmed in a recent issue of People Magazine, and again on the Leeza Greneer Show.'"

     After the first paragraph is the picture of us at Melanie and Nelson's house when we fell asleep with Jordan. By now Gabi's blushing so much that it's visible even with her dark skin.

     Amiyah keeps reading. "'After she stunned viewers with her powerful performance, fans have been asking for more of the seemingly camera shy diva ever since. Gabrielle Washington's popularity has continued to steadily rise over the past few months, even being nicknamed by her ever-growing fan base 'The First Lady of R&B' and also as simply 'Queen', reminiscent of her white, flowing modern style gown worn on that iconic appearance. The mystery surrounding the star is drawing in fans like moths to a flame, and they show no signs of slowing down. Dozens of questions are circling around about Gabrielle Washington, but there's only one we have here at E! : What will she reveal next? '"

     It's silent after Amiyah finishes, though I can't keep the grin off my face. I know she probably wouldn't mind either way, but I want the people to see Gabi like I see her, and not just my shadow. It seems like it's happening without her having to do hardly anything.

     I wrap my arm around her shoulders, bringing her in close so our cheeks touched. "Look at my baby, making headlines already. How do you feel about that?"

     I feel her smile. "I dont know, I didn't really expect this! It is flattering, though."

     Amiyah laughs at her modesty. "I bet you could use this to your advantage. Maybe put out your own album!"

     Gabi just shakes her head, leaning more into my shoulder. "I don't know... I'll talk with Nelson about it."

     Amiyah and I nod, silently agreeing with her idea. Even though I'm the one in the spotlight, and now Gabi too, Nelson is the one who seems to have a handle on managing how to project our image to the public and keeping our reputation clean. Makes me wonder if he was in this business in a past life or something.

     Just then, Amiyah's phone vibrates. She checks the message, then starts to gather her things.

     "Well Bishop's out front with the car all ready to go. Better get a move on, Mike, if you wanna make this meeting on time."

     She stands and starts to leave, while I kiss Gabi once more on the cheek. I get up and follow after Amiyah, turning to smile back at her over my shoulder.

     "Love you, Lady."

     Gabi smiles back. "Love you more, and good luck!"

     I grab my phone and keys off the coffee table by the front door and leave, locking it behind me. Amiyah's already in the front seat next to Bishop, who smiles at me as I get in.

     "Ready to get this paper, man?"

     I smirk back as we pull off. "What kind of question is that? I'm always ready."

*****************************

     8:52am

     We eventually get to the office complex a little ways outside of LA, going right up to the one named "Duggar and Duggar Booking". Bishop parks up front, and I see a Ferrari and Lambo on either side of the truck.

     "Damn, these dudes must be loaded." Bishop says, taking notice. "Be careful not to scratch these up. You ain't got that much bread to spare."

     I snort, rolling my eyes and opening the door to get out. I pause when I see Amiyah and Bishop sitting still.

     "Y'all not coming with?"

     Amiyah shoots an inviting glance at Bishop before looking back to me. Bishop acts like he doesn't see, but if I saw, I know he did.

     "Mike, you grown, ain't you? You can go on in by yourself, you a big boy now." He chuckles. "We'll be here in the car waiting on ya."

     I narrow my eyes at them, not saying anything. They really think they slick. I don't know how far it's gone, but something's going on with these two.

     Still, I shrug and pretend I don't notice. I shut the car door and head inside, cool air rushing in my face as I open the door. When I come to the waiting area, I see a woman dressed in a navy blue pantsuit sitting in one of the lounge chairs. She smiles when she sees me come in, her black curly hair swaying as she stands.

     The woman reaches out a hand to shake mine. "Morning, Michael, it's nice to meet you! I'm Amina, and I'm one of the promoters you're here to meet with today."

     I nod, following her down the hall. These meetings are honestly boring as hell, but if it means getting to perform for my people, I'll do it. "Nice to meet you, too." I say, keeping things short.

     Amina opens one of the last doors on the left, and I step into a wide space with a large, round table in the center and chairs all around; a few men and another woman are already seated, and smile as I pass. The open blinds cast the room in a bright light, a real relaxing setting overall. Maybe this won't be that bad.

     The promoter gestures to a seat right by the window, and I sit down as she takes the chair between me and a short man with a dense goatee.

"Well, let's get the introductions out of the way, shall we?"

She tells me that the man with the beard is her partner Ron, who's also from Arizona, and the other woman is Marcella, the owner of some music Hall in Phoenix. DJ is sitting next to her, looking pleased. They came out all this way to meet with me, and judging from the vibe DJ's giving off, he's already sold. Now I'm curious to know what they want to offer.

     "It's good to meet y'all here." I start, folding my hands. "So, what brings you to want to meet with me?"

     Marcella leans forward slightly. "We actually came to bring you a business proposal, which I feel would be in both of our best interests."

     I raise an eyebrow, nodding. She then takes out a contract, along with some facts and figures on a separate piece of paper.

      "I've been looking for some new talent to headline at our hall, Klutch, in Phoenix for some time now, and I feel you would be perfect. There's a three night event to celebrate our recent merging with a new promotion company," she nods at Ron and Amina. "And we'd like to offer you the opportunity to perform."

     I nod again, taking it all in. Though I don't reach for the contract just yet. "You mean a show each night, right? And what exactly is in it for me?"

     "Of course, you'll be compensated for this event, paid travel and the like." Amina chimes in. "Also, talent and booking agents from all over will be in attendance, as well as a few local news outlets. There may even be a tour in the works for you after this event."

"Not to mention the added exposure for your upcoming album. Wouldn't hurt to do a show previewing your music, man." DJ adds, while Amina nods encouragingly.

     I choose to stay silent, and grab the contract from the table to get a close look. As I'm skimming over it, it basically confirms what's been said. Of course, they get all the proceeds from the music hall, and I'll be getting a flat 25k a night, which isn't too bad. I'm mostly interested in the exposure. Maybe I can meet with someone who can help me get a tour up and going.

     Besides, I wanna meet with my southwestern fans.

     I give a sideways smirk to DJ. "Anybody got a pen?"

     Immediately everyone at the table grins back, and Marcella eagerly hands me a pen with her business logo on it. After I sign, I slip the pen in my pocket. She'll be a good contact to have later if this all goes over well.

     Marcella stands with Amina and comes over to shake my hand. "Thank you so much, Michael. I'm sure you'll enjoy doing business with us."

     I nod and shake Ron's hand after, while DJ nods to me. He then shakes Marcella's hand. "Amina and I will get right to work on promoting this event! I hope we can do more deals like this in the future."

     I agree. I really appreciate their straightforward attitude. Hopefully all my business is like this.

     As everyone starts to make their way out of the room, I check my watch and see that it's only 9:34am. Maybe I can drive around the city a little bit, then have some time to chill with the crew before heading to my mom's house.

     I walk out, waving at Amina as I pass by. Once I get outside, the truck is still here, and I make a little noise closing the door so Bishop and Amiyah can compose themselves. I have no clue what's up with them, but I don't particularly want to find out.

     I can't help the twinge in my chest at the thought of something going on between them.

     Hearing the click of the door unlocking, I open it and slide into the backseat. Amiyah gives me a questioning look.

     "Did the meeting really only take half an hour? What, they offer you another corny ass commercial deal?"

     I shake my head, smirking. "Nah, I actually signed to perform for some event in Phoenix for three nights in a row."

     Bishop whips around, eyes wide. "You mean you going for more than one show?! Damn, Mike. People really starting to take your appeal seriously."

     He turns around to pull off, and I tell him that the best part is the 25k a night.

     "Whoooo." he whistles, running a hand through his short fade. "Hey, what y'all think about me dropping a mixtape or something? If you making that kind of change after a few months, I could probably make a few coins myself."

     I laugh at his silly self. Trust him to think of something like this, still not even fully realizing what it takes to make an album, or even a single. Though his intentions are good (kind of), Gabi would probably have more of a turnout than Bishop.

     Thinking about that makes me wonder how Gabi will take this. I frown, gazing out the window. I would ask her to come with me, but I know she doesn't like crowds all that much. She'd be too easily stressed out. 

     "You're thinking about how Gabi's gonna take all this, ain't you?"

     Amiyah's voice snaps me out of my thoughts, and she chuckles. "I swear, it's like y'all don't even breathe without checking with the other first. Gabi knew what she was getting into, being with a star like you. She'll understand."

     I chuckle. "I just value her opinion, that's all. But thanks, though."

     She nods and faces back towards the front.

     The girl's right though. I should know by now how Gabi would react. It's not like she would try and stop me from going. Besides, this could turn into a big power move that benefits all of us. Things are getting bigger than I've ever dreamed.

     As we drive, I can't keep the smile off my face.

******************************

     Gabrielle

     9:42am

     I sigh heavily, washing the last of the plates from breakfast this morning. Michael had just left, and Nelson is on his way over. I am excited since I haven't had time to hang out with just my cousin in a long while, but I need to get some things off my chest. I know he'll understand.

     No sooner then me putting away the last dish did I hear a knock on the door. I grin, drying off my hands and hurrying to the door. Peeking through the hole in the door, I see Nelson holding Jordan.

     I swing the door open. "Nelly! How are you?"

     He kisses his teeth, using one arm to wrap me in a hug. "You still calling me that? And I'm doing aight, I'm watching Jordan today so not much is going on. Little dude won't drink from his bottle."

     "Awh, he just doesn't like the way you hold him when you try to feed him." I chuckle, leaning down to pick Jordan up from his carrier and getting his bottle. I cradle him in the crook of my arm, letting his head rest on my upper arm. Almost instantly, Jordan relaxes. "See? You gotta help him hold his head up more."

     Nelson rolls his eyes playfully. "Alright, I see I'm dealing with an expert here. So when you gonna start dealing with your own baby, Honey?"

     I blush and he smirks at my reaction. "When I'm good and ready, that's when. Until then, I'm going to keep spoiling my godson. But that's not what we're talking about right now."

     Taking a seat on the couch, I switch Jordan to my other arm so he can lay his head on my shoulder. Nelson sits across from me, leaning back and getting comfortable.

     "Oh it's not? I guess you wanna bring up Zara then."

     My eyebrow lifts up, and he just laughs. "Mike told me about how y'all saw her at Club 51. And since I know you, I knew you'd wanna talk 'bout making peace with her or whatever. Now, am I right or am I right?"

     I kiss my teeth. "You already know you are. But what's wrong with wanting to talk to her?"

     Nelson just frowns at me.

     "I know, I know, Michael already gave me that yesterday." I say, lightly patting Jordan's back. "I don't know, I just got the feeling that she meant what she was saying. I wouldn't even be thinking about this if I thought for a second that she was dealing with Angel still."

     Nelson shakes his head. "Gabrielle, really? Just think about it from our perspective for a minute. This girl's sister had you kidnapped, taken to your uncle and damn near let you bleed out in a trap house somewhere. Are you sure you want to be in her company? I wish the fuck I would."

     I look down at the top of Jordan's head, not being able to look him in the eye. I can tell he's seriously upset about this, with him using my whole name and all. But I know what I'm doing. I'm not that naive girl I was back in West L.A anymore, so why can't he see that?

     Something brings me to look up at Nelson again, and I see his eyebrows still furrowed, though his eyes had softened, just a tiny bit. I just smile at him.

     "What am I gonna do with you?" He sighs. "I know you're just gonna do what you want anyways, so I'm gonna trust you on this one. I won't tell Michael, either. But I'm going with you, you hear?"

     My smile grows and I bring him into a bear hug, careful not to crush Jordan. "I knew you'd understand, Nelly. I promise, everything's going to be fine."

     Finally a small smile comes on his face, and he hugs me back, lightly patting my back. Once he pulls away, he gently takes Jordan from my arms along with his bottle to feed him. Right then, my phone vibrates, and as I pick it up, it vibrates again. 

     I turn it on and see that I have two messages, one from Gabe. He wants to meet up for lunch sometime this week to make up for what happened at the photoshoot yesterday. I had already forgiven him, even though it wasn't his fault. Still, he could be nice to go out with sometimes. 

     The other text makes my stomach jump once I see it's from Zara. I read it twice, just to make sure what I'm seeing is true.

     'Hi Gabi! I really really really wanna have coffee or something with u this week to make up for when I saw u guys last with Angel. I'm glad things didn't get hectic after that, am I rite? :)'

     Last time? She must be talking about when she was with Angel at the gas station. Zara must not know what her sister was up to afterwards. I look down when my phone buzzes again.

     'Btw, I read an article about u on E! this morning! U killin' 'em, girl!'

     I let myself smile a little at her effort. I already had a feeling she'd be alright, but I'll make sure once I see her. I quickly shoot a text back to both of them. That reminds me, I wanted to ask Nelson about the article this morning. 

     "Ah! Nelson, I wanted to tell you--"

     I pause, making Nelson look up at me in confusion. For some reason, I just couldn't tell him yet. If I did, what would I say? It's not like he can just pull a career out of thin air for me to do after seeing one positive thing about me online. I'm not even sure what I would like to do is in my reach. Maybe...

     I'll keep this to figure out myself. Just this once.

     "What's up, Honey?"

     I let out a light sigh, giving a small smile.

     "You're still not holding his head right."

*************************************************************************

     6:03pm

      I look at my watch to see what time it is, standing in front of the hallway mirror. Michael and the others should be here any minute to get me and Nelson. The dinner is going to start soon, and I really hate being late.

     "You need anything else before ya go, Miss Washington?"

     I turn around and see Grace, the babysitter Melanie hired to watch Jordan. She may only be 17, but she has experience watching young kids. With her only living 2 blocks away, I can see why Melanie chose her.

     "Oh no, Gracie, I'm fine, thank you." I smile. "And I already said you can just call me Gabi."

     "Yeah, she thinks Miss Washington makes her sound old." Nelson laughs as he comes downstairs, Jordan fast asleep in his arms. He lightly kisses the top of his son's forehead, then hands him to Grace. "Hey thanks for watching Jordan on this short notice."

     She gives a smile, rocking Jordan back and forth. "It's no problem, really! You know I don't sleep, so stay out as late as you want."

     I chuckle to myself. Nelson and Melanie can never stay away from their baby for too long. They'll leave Mama Kate's house early, probably being back by 9.

     Right then, we hear a knock, and I already know it's Michael. I nudge Nelson's arm and nod towards the front door.

     "Looks like they're here." I wave back at Grace. "Alright, be safe you two!"

      Nelson nods at her, and both of us make our way to the front door. Once I open the door, I already knew who'd be standing there.

     Michael takes my hand and kisses my cheek. "Hey, Lady. What's up, man?"

     Nelson returns his handshake, locking the door behind us. "It's all been good. I'm ready to smash this potato salad, though."

     Michael chuckles back as he opens the passenger door for me. "I hear that! Let's be out, then."

     "Oh I don't get any opening doors? Almost 20 years of loyalty don't get me anywhere, I guess." Nelson kisses his teeth.

     I scowl at him playfully, catching the reference to when I first came home. "Boy if you don't get in this truck!"

     A hand lands on my shoulder, making me jump. I turn and see Melanie smirking at me. "Ay, don't holler at mi esposo like that! You know how much of a big ass baby he can be."

     Michael revs up the car. "Well that baby gonna get left if he keeps playing."

     "Ha! Leave him then, I'll take his plate." Bishop laughs loudly from the far backseat, making Amiyah roll her eyes in amusement. "Ain't nothing going to be leftover, trust me."

     "Alright, alright! Damn, I'm coming!" He finally gets in, scooting in close to Melanie in the middle seats. Michael finally pulls out of the driveway on onto the road. "B, you're crazy if you think you're getting one spoonful of my potato salad."

     I can't help but laugh at their bickering. Michael glances over at me, a smile growing on his face.

     "It's like we have a backseat full of kids back there, isn't it?" I tease.

     "Yeah, I know, it makes me wonder how we got as far as we did." he laughs. "I can't believe I'm still getting offers to do shows."

     I shake my head. Of course people want to see him perform. Even though I'm biased myself, I don't know anyone else right now that's doing as well as Michael is, especially so soon in his career.

     "Oh yeah, that reminds me, I meant to tel you 'bout the meeting this morning. Some venue in Arizona wants me to do a three night event for their grand opening. They're giving me 25k a night."

     I squeal in excitement, leaning over to kiss his cheek. That's my man! "I'm so happy for you, baby! When is it?!"

     His cheeks flush, but he can't help the big smile on his face. "I'm leaving tomorrow night, I have to be there for rehearsals and all that. I'm just letting you know, Imma be glued to your side until then."

     My eyes widened slightly at this. I didn't know he'd be leaving that soon after settling the deal. Of course I'm happy for him, but still.

     I lay my head against his shoulder so he wouldn't see my eyes water. It didn't need to be said; he knew I wouldn't want to go with, no matter how much I want to. I promised him that when he went on an extended tour or something of the like, I would follow him anywhere, but I'm still shaky when it comes to crowds of people and cameras all around.

     It's only a week at the most, but I still feel bad.

     His arm reaches around behind me and he pulls me closer to him. He rests his cheek on the top of my head, still keeping his eyes on the road.

     "I know, Lady. I know."

     As we drove, I didn't even realize the bickering had quieted down to a comfortable silence. I guess we're all going to have to adjust, since this is the longest Michael is going to be away, and I know he's going to have to take Melanie and Bishop with him. Hopefully everything goes well.

     Before I know it, Michael pulls into the driveway where his mom, sisters, and my aunt live. There's already a few trucks in the front, and I thank God I was able to give them my Daddy's old house. It's definitely big enough to hold everyone coming tonight.

     Once Michael finds a place to park, we all get out one by one. Michael goes to hand Nelson his keys.

     "Only because I know you're gonna leave early." he smirks. "Don't worry about it, B can just call one of his boys to pick us up later."

     Nelson nods back, wrapping an arm around Melanie's waist. "Thanks man. Aye, let's get to this good food!"

     We all nod in agreement and head up to the door. I raise my hand to knock, but before I can, the door swings open and a figure runs straight into Michael's chest.

     "OH MIKE, I MISSED YOU!"

     He chuckles at his little sister, who's not so little anymore. "I was just here a few months ago! But I missed you too, Janet. Where's 'Toya?"

     I was so busy watching the two, I didn't realize someone else coming up behind me.

     "Oooooowhee, I haven't seen y'all in a minute! How my babies been?"

     I whip around with a big smile on my face as Nelson and I both yell at the same time.

     "Auntie!" "Mama!"

     She opens her arms wide, and both of us nearly topple her over. She's so short, it's a wonder how she can still see in front of her. Aunt Mattie just laughs, then turns to the rest of the crew.

     "Well don't y'all just stand there! Come on in here and get you some of this food, now."

     Everyone is immediately at ease as we file in, Janet talking a mile a minute and not letting go of Michael's hand. Melanie and I chuckle as we watch Nelson do the same to Aunt Mattie, and even Bishop and Amiyah seem comfortable being here.

     There's just good vibes all around, and I don't want this to ever end.

     We come into the dining room and see the table almost full already. The front of the table is for Mama Kate I assume, and the other end of the table for Aunt Mattie. On either side the seats were filled halfway down. Marlon, Jermaine, Randy, and LaToya were already sitting, with Janet next to her sister. Michael takes a seat next to her, and I slide in next to him. Of course, Nelson went right next to his mother, and Melanie sits in between us. I didn't miss how Bishop and Amiyah paired off to sit across from them.

     "Well would you look here. It's a good thing I made enough, we just might have some leftovers."

     We turn around and see Mama Kate holding the first plate of ribs, a satisfied look on her face. Michael stands as she comes in to hug her and kiss her cheek.

     "Hey Mama, how you been?" he says, trying to grab a piece, but she swats his hand away.

     "Michael, you know we have to bless this food first! And I'm fine, better now that you all are here." she chuckles.

     She sets the plate in the center of the table, then comes around to kiss me and Nelson on our foreheads. "It's good to see y'all too!"

     Michael and Marlon go into the kitchen to help her bring out the rest of the food, and I notice the slight tension in Michael's shoulders. I'm hoping, if he does talk to his brothers, that it goes okay.

     Once the potato salad and macaroni and cheese is out, everyone takes their seats and joins hands, bowing our heads in a silent prayer. We raise our heads again, and the plates start going around.

     "I can't tell you how good it feels to have all of you here, especially my boys, with them finally getting out of the game."

     There's light mumbles of approval, and Janet grins wide at Randy. "Ooh, tell everybody what you're doing, Randy!"

     He shakes his head, looking down as he takes part of the ribs. "It's nothing much, really."

     "Oh stop being modest!" LaToya taps his arm. "It's a really good job!"

     "Really? You got a job already?" Nelson raises an eyebrow. I wonder how he knew Randy was in town, but I forgot he's always in the know, especially if it's related to Michael's family. Speaking of him, even he looks curious about Randy.

      Randy rubs the short fade on his head. "Well it's not a job yet really, it's an internship at LA Talent."

     People start congratulating him, though I lean over to whisper to Melanie.

     "What place is that?"

     "Nelson told me about it the other day." she whispers back. "Companies go to them to find people to represent their products, sometimes celebrities. It's basically a talent agency."

     I nod, watching Randy blush with all the praise. To be only 20 and have a place like that training him is a big deal, I'll give him that.

     "That's good, Randy. You picked a good starting point." Michael says, surprisingly.

     Marlon laughs, clapping Randy on the back. "Yeah man, if Mr. BET thinks you doing a good job, you know you're doing something big."

     All three chuckle, and the tension starts to fade a little. Things fade into light conversation and enjoying the food, and in between those times, I'm trying to get a feel for Michael's brothers. Marlon I've always liked, and after seeing Randy today, I know he's sincere in trying to make things right. Jermaine though, still looks shifty to me.

     I want to bring it up, but as I watch them all joke about old times, I wonder if Michael would listen.

*******************************

     Michael

     10:35pm

     I plant myself on the couch, tired as hell. After eating all that food and helping with the cleanup, I'm ready to just fall out. Nelson and Melanie already headed home, taking Amiyah and Bishop with his dozen food plates with them. I wanted to stay behind, since I already know my mother's gonna want to talk to me about my brothers.

     Gabi seemed to realize it too, and stayed behind with me. She went to keep Janet company and gossip with LaToya. I'm glad somebody's getting along with my siblings, though I'm not so hype about this conversation.

     My mother walks in, taking a seat on the couch.

     "Whew, you all can really eat, you know that?"

     I smile. "Only because you was the one cooking, Ma."

     She laughs, folding her apron on her lap. "God blessed us in more ways than just this good food, now."

     My smile falters, though I hope she doesn't notice. Here we go...

     "It's good that Randy got this internship out here. You know, the second he set foot here, he wouldn't leave the kitchen counter, checking every classified he could find."

     I raise an eyebrow at that. I've never known Randy to be that persistent. I can't lie, I am a little impressed. But I'm not budging. If Randy can do it, then so can the others. My brothers can fend for themselves and leave me out of their mess.

     My mother sighs. "Marlon and Jermaine haven't had as much success yet. Marlon goes out to look, but Jermaine doesn't even know how to start."

     I snort at that. "I doubt it, Ma. Jermaine knows what to do, he's just looking for some quick cash to take the easy way out. I don't know why he left the game, it seemed like the perfect fit for him."

     "Michael, don't say that!" She frowns. "That's your brother! He might not have to struggle so much, and Marlon too, if you could help them out some."

     I shake my head. "I can't recommend people I don't trust, Ma. I can only do so much, and I have enough on my plate as it is."

     She looks at me, hurt in her eyes, and I almost take back what I said. She knows I wouldn't not help her like with them, but it's either everyone or no one with my mother. If one of us gets something, we have to share it all, no matter if they deserve it or not. I used to not have a problem with it, but what they did...

     "What's happened for you to turn on your family like this, baby?"

     I scowl, but I look away so I don't direct the ugly face at her.

     "You know why."

     It's silent for what feels like forever. I can't even look her in the eye, because I know she's not liking what she's hearing. But she should know how many times they've sold me out over their own love of money. I just can't get myself into that situation anymore.

     "Well, it seems like your mind's made up, and I can't exactly tell you what to do anymore." She says, standing up to go upstairs. "All I'm gonna say is this. Don't turn your back on who you pass on your way up to the top, 'cause you'll need them again when you fall back down."

     With that, she kisses my cheek and lightly rubs my hair, then turns to leave.

     I let out a heavy sigh, my head in my hands. I could hear all the disappointment in her voice, and that's the worst feeling coming from my mother. Maybe I'll think about it just for her. Maybe...

     As for right now, I need to get in the right head space for these shows I'm doing, starting tomorrow. Pushing it to the back of my mind, I stand up to go find Gabi so we can go.

     It's only one day before I leave, so I gotta make the best of it.

(A/N: This is just a filler that progresses things further. Next chapter, shit starts popping up. Can you catch all the hints I'm leaving y'all? What do you think is gonna happen next?

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