A few days later Charles was having lunch with Lady Hemingway West.

"I appreciate you being a character witness for Marcus. Right now he thinks that I'm not representing him, but I needed a distraction so I can properly build his case."

"It's no problem, Charles. Just tell me what I need to do so I can do my part."

"Good thing is that he ran your son's anger management classes and handled the books for Harry after that tragic car accident. The entire anger management group are testifying on his behalf."

Their shrimp scampi meal was set on the table before them.

"Smells great," Lady said, thanking the waiter.

Charles nodded at the waiter and pulled his notepad from his leather attaché case.

He scribbled down a few things before he lost his thought.

"The key thing is that Harry isn't testifying. We must protect him at all costs."

"Who told you that I wasn't testifying?" Harry asked, kissing his mother on the cheek. "What's up, Mama?"

"So it's Mama now," she joked.

"Yes, Mama. I can't change the past. I'd rather give you these while you're alive."

He handed her a bouquet of white orchids. It was her favorite flower.

She melted into his arms. "Thank you baby. I really appreciate it."

"So...you don't see me sitting here," said Charles, with a slight attitude.

"You never answered my question, sir. Who told you that I wasn't testifying for a man, that I have feelings for, that saved my life?"

"You care for him?" asked Lady, her eyes glowing.

"Yes, I do, Mama. And I know you don't..."

She covered his mouth, silenced him.

"We just got past the hurt of the past at my ex girlfriend's house. You forgave me for the bad decisions I made in the past. Because of you I found a woman I've loved for years, a woman I never thought I'd ever see again."

She wiped tears out of his eyes. "I just want my mother to accept me for who I am and at least be there for me when I fall. That's all."

"You got it, baby."

"I'm testifying, Charles."

"I think you're making a big mistake."

"The same mistake you made telling Marcus that you screwed me?"

"I never said no such thing, Harry. I don't even get down like that."

Harry put his cell on the table. It was already on speaker phone.

"You lied to me, Charles?" Marcus asked, his voice stricken with intensity.

"Damn, Harry. I was just joking."

"My trial is in four days, bruh. Please tell me you have a plan."

"That's what we're discussing now, Marcus."

"Make sure you get down here to see me face to face, Charles."

"I will."

"Marcus," said Lady. "This is Lady, Harry's mother. Can you add me to your visiting list. I'd like to see you."

"I can arrange that, Ms. Lady."

"Please," Lady said, taking Harry's hand. "Call me 'Mama'."

Marcus chuckled with Harry.

Charles frowned.

"Thanks, Mama."

"I love you, son. I never stopped. Because of you I'm now ready to be who I am. I'm a lesbian. Just hearing myself say it sends chills up my spine."

"That's wassup. Look everyone, my time is up. I'm looking forward to seeing you, Lady."

"I have a better idea," said Charles. "She won't be coming to see you by traditional means. The last thing I need is the prosecutor pulling your visiting records and seeing Lady on it. They can argue that you coerced your character witness before your trial. I have a better idea."

Charles glanced at Harry and Lady with a winning smile.

"Let the games begin..."