The Love We Need -PUB DATE 3/27

1

I'm every damn emotion in one. I check the map again, an hour left until I'm back home. If Wayne had of picked me up with mom like we planned I wouldn't be this nervous. His crazy ass would've cracked some jokes, played some music, and eased the mental load of it all. Instead I've been in the car with mom her and weird ass friend Carl, taking pee stops every thirty fucking minutes.

"I can't believe your fake ass didn't come with them to pick me up. You know how miserable this car ride has been?"

"I know I'm sorry. Shit mama didn't tell me she was leaving until I got a text a 2 am talkin' bout on the way to Oklahoma." "Car ride been that bad?"

"You know I can't stand Carl. That man makes my damn skin crawl, always have." I technically don't have a reason to dislike him, but my dad always taught me to listen to my gut and every fiber in my being told me something was off with him.

"I don't know why mama still wasting her time messing with him. Daddy is bout to be home tonight and he ain't having that shit. Whatever agreement they had while he was locked up is coming to an end soon as he touches down."

"You telling me, while you been gone I been having to tell pops all aobut this nigga. Carl ain't have a clue what's coming for him, he giving ma grace since he's had his fuck ups in the past and she been on her own and shit,but the party marks the end." Wayne laughs. "Probably why she took him out of town with her, one last hoorah."

I laugh right along with him knowing that sounds about right, no matter, what mama loves daddy. He's the love of her life, I don't know or care to know what kind of arrangement they have going on, but all I do know is that it's finally coming to an end. Thank God.

"Oh, I told mama to drop me off by your place. It's still cool if I stay there right?"

"Don't ask stupid questions, we family."

"Thanks Wayne. I'll see you in a few." I quickly hang up when I see Carl walking back to the car. He shakes his head swinging the front door open. "Forgot my wallet." he pauses. "You sure you don't want anything?"

"I'm good thanks." I hurry him off.

Hour and a half, hour and a half. I remind myself, smooth nap and this torture is over with.