De'Shawn's POV:

I walk up the steps to the courthouse. Each step brings me closer to pain or justice. I may remain a dead woman or be able to get my life back. Who would have ever thought that I'd be doing this one day? My thoughts are running wild these days.

I take a deep breath as I enter the double doors of the courthouse. Inhaling faith and exhaling doubt. My heart has been racing for the past week and I'm not sure if it'll make it to the finish line any time soon. As I glance at the people around me, they began to disappear. Now, it's just me and my destination. I headed for the front desk to check in for my appointment with Ricky and waited in line-

D: "Shawny." He said as he walked into the kitchen, breaking my thoughts. Damn. I said to myself. I need to stop giving my hopes up. What is the point. Hearing De'Mario's voice startled me and sent me straight to an attitude. I rolled my eyes and sighed as I turned around to be faced with a snake I call a husband.

Me: "What?" I crossed my arms and gave him a careless expression. He revealed his frustration for dealing with my attitude that we've failed to agree that I have, knowing I do. One of these days , I hope, he'll just come clean with how he really feels. After all, it's been five years. It makes sense for him to want to move on. He stood still and stared me in the eyes as if he was an authority figure in my eyes. I still don't see how he's trying to act hard when I could care less what he does in life anymore. He didn't say a word, not a sound escaped those pink, soft, juicy lips of his. But I didn't care because I was in a trance.

D: "You okay?" He asked. I assume it's because I went from irritated to horny within seconds. Not noticing that my cheeks have already become rosey as I bit my bottom lip and turned around to face the sink , attempting to hide my feelings. I even nodded quickly to get him to leave me alone. As you can see, I've been going on a sex strike. It's never been so hard in my life. But I don't want him if I know he was fucking miss Dora the Explorer the same night he made love to me. He can't play me, so I'm not going to give in unless he decides to come clean. Besides, I've been sick lately and don't want to ruin anything if we do have sex. Remember, I said IF.

"You sure? Cause, you giving me mixed messages." I felt his breath blow against the crook of my neck causing me to shiver. I must have been in a daze to not realize that he traveled all the way from the other side of the kitchen to turn me on. My heartbeat sped up as he continued to breathe. The temperature of my body began to rise the longer he stood there.

Me: "I'm fine, just go." I lied. He just doesn't know about the river that's flowing down south, if you know what I mean. Right when I spoke too soon, the tight grip of high hands forced me to turn around and lifted me up to sit on the counter.

D: "Let me know wassup, Shawn." He gave me a demanding look in his eyes that I loved so much. It just turned me on so bad but a part of me took over me thoughts and I became angry all of a sudden. My vulnerable, pleading body language transformed into rejection and disgust. I could see that he knew my mood had changed once again by the way he stepped back throwing his hands up in surrender.

"I try, you can't say I don't." He said getting ready to walk away. Away, meaning to his Monica Lewinski, just to get what he really wants. Sex, something I'm not going to give to him. The moment he turned his back on me, my lips began to quiver, heart started to hurt, chest caves in, tears form, and my nose gets moist. This the main reason I hate being a female. Why do we get so emotional. I just really love him and he just doesn't care. I began to cry once he entered the room. Now, I'm all alone. Again, nothing new...

De'Mario's POV:

Blowing out an air of frustration, I kick off my shoes and lay down in our king sized bed. I think to myself as I stare at the ceiling with my arms behind my head. Wondering.. what the hell has been wrong with Shawny lately. She barely talks, she damn sure is too emotional when we do speak, and she never wants me to touch her. Once I get the slightest sign that she wants me , she turns around and changes into another person. Don't believe me? Just watch.

In the middle of thought, I felt hands run up my shirt, rubbing my chest. I licked my lips and bit my bottom one as I pulled my shirt off over my head. Shawny climbed on top of me as she kissed my lips passionately. My hands traveled to her ass and began to massage it as we tongue wrestled. She tugged at my belt while she unbuckled it And slid her hands inside my boxers. I sucked on her tongue which caused a moan to escape her lips as she rubbed my shaft. She had a firm grip around my member as she began to stroke slowly. I threw my head back, breaking the kiss and started kissing on her neck. I groaned loudly and startled myself, causing my eyes to shoot open. I look around the room to see that I was having a wet dream and to confirm that, my member was standing up at attention with my hand resting right next to it. Damn. I thought to myself. I've never needed sex more in my life.

Suddenly, the smell of good food invaded my nostrils. I sat up pulling my hand out of my pants and jogged downstairs. My first step was to wash my hands but Shawny was already at the sink. When she moved, she brushed against my excited member by accident it must have surprised her because she blushed and then continued to cook. Before I wash my hands, I'll wait to see if she really wants it. Just like I expected, she looked back and took a glance at my obvious boner. I smirked and turned to the sink to wash my hands.

Trinity: "Daddy!" She shouted as she enter the kitchen at the most inappropriate time. I froze at the since not able to move, trying to hide what's in front of me. Shawny dropped everything and ran to her aid.

Shawny: "What's the matter sweetheart?" She kneeled down in front of her.

Trinity: "Not you, daddy." She pouted causing my face to turn and I know Shawny was hurt. I looked back to see Shawny sigh and stand up slowly. She walked to the stove and cut the burners off before migrating upstairs.

Me: "Trinity, go to your room." I demanded. She being only five and all, began to tear up as if she knew she was in trouble. As her tears began rolling out of her eyes while she cried , her feet carried her upstairs and lured her to her room. I don't think I've ever been angry, well not angry, but disappointed in her. I mean, I understand that she's confused but it's never acceptable to be angry at your moms for being "dead". As awkward as that may sound, it's true. I'm happy to have my babygirl back, believe it or not , I really am. I went insane trying to bring her back in my life know it was impossible if she was actually dead. I'm grateful I get a second, well this probably my tenth, chance to love her forever. Just like the fairytales. But I don't think she's understanding the way I've been showing it. Shawny's been acting up lately. Not only has she been stopped speaking, but she also became distant from literally everyone. I don't know what it is. Her mixed emotions are driving me insane. One moment, she's smiling and trying to be her old self. The next moment, she's upset and doesn't want to be touched or talked to. Then suddenly, she'd be hidden somewhere crying to herself like I can't hear her. Lowkey, that's shit hurts me as a husband. Highkey, I haven't seen not one person try to comfort her in anyway. It's like she's being castes out of existence as if she actually did die that day in the fire. I want to help and bring her back to life but I don't know how I can do that. I'm afraid I'm too late and maybe she really doesn't want me but doesn't have anywhere else to go.

De'Maria's POV:

"I know you've seen a lot of things in your life.
Got you feeling like this can't be right.
I won't hurt you,
I'm down for you baby..."

Trust by Keyshia Cole & Monica played through the speakers of Shawny's pink Range Rover. I may be just a freshman & nothing but 14 but I had a talk with Shawny and she said its best that I started driving now just in case something like last time happened. Oh, and she also understands why I would need the car for certain reasons. I'm pretty good with driving now it's only been a few days. I'm not the nervous type so I'm pretty cautious to my surroundings. I hum along to the old school music has in a playlist on one of her CDs she created with random music of her choice. I enjoy old school music, although u was born in a time where music had no meaning anymore. Anyway , I'm driving myself to a place that Tee and I go to be alone since the incident that ended up to us being forbidden to have any contact with each other.

I pull up in the drive way of the park near the elementary school the twins go to. Parking behind the trees behind the building to be hidden. I turn the car off and glance through my rear view mirror that showed Tee leaning against the tree the we chill by most days. Taking my seatbelt off and pulling my purse over my shoulder, I get out of the car. I locked the doors as I walked towards Tee. He casted a smile on his face as I became closer. If my dad knew this what I was doing every day after school, he'd probably kill me. Then Shawny, because she's the one who gives me the keys. I honestly don't care anymore. No one can take Terrence from me. No one. I love him.

Raquel's POV:

Swish, swish, swish. The sound of the printer as the papers are pushed out full of warm ink. I sigh as I over look the printed pages and grabbed the stapler to unite them at the corner. Walking back to my plush chair, I hand the stapled papers to my Client Mrs.Peterson. Whom just so happened to be standing to exit the room.

Me: "Have a nice day, Mrs.Peterson" I said with a smile and friendly hug. She replied with the same and exited as quick as she came. I rub my temples as I slumped down into my chair and slipped of my black heels that matches my black and white floral dress. I pulled out my silver IPhone 6 and sat back getting comfortable. Sending D a text, I imagine what he's doing. My cheeks rose just thinking about him but I don't mean to feel this way. I cross my legs blush once again the moment my phone chimed , indicating he texted back.

D: Right now is not a good time Raq.😣

My smile dropped and I sighed. I really wanted to speak to him, this would be the only thing I looked forward to today. I replied , hoping he'd at least tell me what's wrong.

D: Meet me at the trap, wear shoes or something, we're going for a walk.

Me: Isn't Shawny home?😒

D: Why?😑

Me: Nvm..😕

D: You know what? Fuck it, stay there. ✌🏾️✋🏽

The moment I read that message my heart dropped. That slightly hurt my feelings. What did I do? I took a deep breath and set my phone down. He just ruined the rest of my tiring day. I pulled a pen out of the drawer of my desk and began to write in my diary that I keep In My purse. I think soon, the time will come that I will be able to tell D what I've been hesitating to tell him. That's if I don't take care of things before hand.

De'Mario's POV:

I shove my phone in my pocket as I blow out a breath of frustration and clench my jaw. Raqui always on games. She always trying to bring up Shawny whenever I try to spend time with her. Knowing damn well that she don't like her ass. My phone began to ring in my pocket. Only this time, it was Dre calling me. I took a glance at the screen and declined it. I don't have time to be dealing with anymore than I am now. My kids are acting up, my wife isn't happy, and I don't know what to do about it. It wasn't too long before my phone began to ring again. I fished it out of my pocket and checked the screen to see that it was Aaron. Now this one, I have to answer.

Aaron: "Yo, what's up Legacy." He spoke through the phone.

Me: "What's up man?" I answered.

Aaron: "Uh.. You have an.. Interview tonight if I'm not mistaken." He said as he looked through what sounded like paper. "Yeah, tonight man. I thought it was next week, it's actually tonight. My fault." He said.

Me: "Alright, where at?" I sighed in frustration.

Aaron: "I'll text you the address and they're requesting for De'Shawn too." He added.

Me: "Why, I thought this was MY interview. You didn't say anything about her." I complained.

Aaron: "Don't be selfish man, come on now." He replied.

Me: "Whatever man, Ain't shit got anything to do with my wife. They don't need to talk to her." I frowned.

Aaron: "It's just an interview. No need to get upset." He calmly said.

Me: "I'm not, ion want them talking to her." I argued.

Aaron: "And why is that? She's been gone for five years so of course people want to hear from her. I'm pretty sure that she would have a lot to say," He explained.

Me: "Fuck that, they're not getting a interview." I stated before hanging up.

De'Shawn's POV:

Unknown Number: Tell D to hmu ASAP.

The message popped up on my screen. A puzzled look formed upon my face. How the hell did this mf get my number? I literally just got this phone. I'm slightly getting upset asf. I just decided to reply.

Me: Who is this?

Unknown Number: Dre.

Me: Dre? Ion know a Dre.

Dre: You mind calling?

Me: Nah, I got chu.

Paranoid ass, D used to get on my nerves with that shit. They wouldn't have to worry about this if they didn't choose the lifestyle they chose. I pressed his number and called him.

Dre: "Hello?" He answered in a deep breath taking tone.

Me: "Um.. hey" I replied nervously. I don't what I even called for anymore. I really don't care, I just don't wanna hang up.

Dre: "Since when do you get all sweet?" He teased.

Me: "I wish I knew," I blush and giggled. "So, would you mind telling me who you are exactly?"

Dre: "Anything you want me to be." He said flirtatiously.

Me: "Mm, You do know I'm married right?" I warned him, killing my own good mood I had.

Dre: "Yes, I know Mrs.Smith." He assured me. "I just thought I'd make you smile since I haven't got a chance to see that on you since we met the other night." I thought to myself long and hard before I realized that I think I know who he is. Then, Rico's face popped up in my head and I knew who he was immediately.

Me:"Ohhh! You're Andre, right?" I asked.

Dre: "That's the name." He chuckled.

Me: "Well, nice to finally get a good conversation going. I'm De'Shawn but you can call me Shawny of course." I smiled.

Dre: "Same here, I'm glad we got to introduce ourselves properly." He chuckled. "Next time, please don't cuss me out."

Me: "I cussed you out before?" I asked embarrassed because that sad if I honestly don't remember. I need to stop doing that.

Dre: "Nah, but I've seen you put a few niggas in they place plenty of times. Especially, Rico." He laughed cause it's true. I talk to Rico any kind of way I want when he's around his boys cause he does the same to me whenever D wasn't around. I figured it was fair.

Me: "Oh, yeah," I laughed along with him. In the middle of our good laugh, D walked into the room and instantly killed my amusement. He at looked me from the side of his eye like he was trying to figure out who I was talking to. I sighed causing my stress to build up again. Sadness built in the air I breathe and I felt like that laugh was for nothing. I guess Dre got the vibe, so he asked if I were okay. I said I was fine of course. "Here's D," I passed the phone off to D and he answered it.

D: "Yo, who df is this?" He semi yelled sternly. I frowned.

Me: "Don't be answering my phone like that, what is wrong with you?!" I shouted as I attempted to take the phone back but he snatched back, glaring at me.

D: "Why you calling my woman phone?" He scolded through the line and continued to glare at me. "How df he get cha number Shawny?!"

Me: "Hold on, De'Mario. Who df is you to be questioning me like that? I don't know how he got it, don't look at me." I argued. He stood up to tower over me and I could see the anger taking over him. She hung up my phone and shoved it in his pocket.

D: "What do you mean, who am I?" He checked me.

Me: "Exactly what I said, I didn't stutter." I smacked lips. He mugged me down and I know he wanted to do something that he didn't do but I wish he would.

D: "Keep fucking testing me, I'll take care of that ass. Real quick." He threatened. Like I was afraid of him or something. I laughed a little.

Me: "Right," I giggled. "You ain't take care of shit in five years." I rolled my eyes and attempted to leave but he gripped my arm tightly and pulled me down to have a seat on the bed.

D: "I've been taking care of my kids for five muhfuckin years while you s-"

Me: "While I what?" I frowned at him surprised that he would even go there. "hmm? Please, I dare you to finish that motha fucking sentence." I challenged and got all in his face crossing my arms.

D: "Man, move." He tried pushing me away but I pushed him back.

Me: "Nah, I wanna hear what chu gotta say." I uncrossed my arms."I don't understand why it so hard to speak up De'Mario. Yes, you took care of OUR kids while I was gone. I'm highly aware of that, so what you trynna say?"

D: "Yo, chill and just let the shit go." He attempted to turn around and leave but I pulled him back.

Me: "Now yo ass don't wanna talk?" I shook my head."See, that's the shit I be talking bout. I'm sorry for disappearing for five years and couldn't take care of my kids." I mumbled as I teared up and pushed passed him, walking towards the bedroom door.

D: "Get out cho fuckin feelings man, on da real." He smacked his lips and shook his head. "Don't forget that you put yourself in that position in the first damn place." He TRIED to mumble but I damn near got hawk ears, so he bout lost his mind. I stopped dead in my tracks and slowly looked at him like he had four heads.

Me: "What the fuck did you just say?" I asked for confirmation. Guess what, This nigga had the nerve to repeat himself.

D: "I Said-" I walked towards him and slapped the taste out of his mouth. He grabbed onto my arm and pushed me with all his might causing me to fall back but I caught my fall by grabbing ahold to the bed. "Keep ya fuckin hands to yourself, don't touch me again." He glared at me.

Me: "You ain't want me touching you anyway." I shrugged and stood up.

D: "Shit been ran through anyway." He mumbled putting the emphasis on anyway. I didn't say a word, anger took over me. I slapped him again but this time harder. "I told you keep fucking hands to yourself." He pushed me up against the wall and my hands latched onto my neck. "Let me df go before I hurt chu." He said almost blacking out and snatching up my shirt. My hands became tighter around his neck as I glared at him.

Maria: "What are you guys doing!?" Maria barged in. I let go of D's neck and he threw me on the floor. D gave me a look and stepped over me as he left into the bathroom. I can see, he doesn't care. "Dad, Really!?" She help me up as he slammed the door.

Me: "Don't worry sweetheart." I said holding back tears. She pulled my hand and walked me to her room.

Maria: "That isn't cool, he shouldn't be doing that to you." She's obviously upset and I could hear it in her voice. She walked to her closet and grabbed a backpack. She started looking through it and a sigh pushed through her lips.

Me: "What is it?" I asked. She pulled something out of her purse and my eyes grew wide. "Oh my lord..."

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