Page 113 of Love U Down II

“Hey there.”

“Hey, My-My. Can we talk?”

“My-My?” I repeated. “Just tell me what you want.”

“Cutting straight to the chase, huh?”

“That’s right. Let me hear it.”

“Alright. Have you spoken to our parents?”

“Of course not.”

“Well maybe you should.”

“And why should I, Zamir?”

“They’re divorcing.”

“What?” I scoffed.

“Yeah. Mom came by giving that same ol’ sob story about how Pops was drinking and gambling and she needed money or they were going to lose the house.”

“And you actually gave her the money?”

“Yeah. I gave her the money and found out three days later that she’s been cheating on Pops and is leaving him.”

“Sounds like the same piece of work she’s always been, Zamir.”

“Yeah. Well… Pops is sober so she’s been lying to get money from me and Major just to save up to leave.”

“The man cheated on her for years. If she’s done, she’s done.”

“Yeah, well, he’s not taking it well regardless and I think you should reach out to him.”

“Because?”

“Because you’ve always been his favorite.”

“Oh please.” I sucked my teeth. “Fuck out of here.”

“I’m serious, Myome. That man loves you and I think it would mean a lot for him to hear from you right now. I know he may have let Mom dictate a lot of shit around the house and toured a lot, leaving us with her and shit, but ultimately he’s our father and I know he loves you. I’ve been hanging out with him a lot and he’s holding on to his sobriety but…” Zamir cleared his throat. “Just think about it.”

“It isn’t my job to help him hold on to his sobriety, Zamir.”

“I know and you’re right. I just wanted to put it on your radar, alright? That’s it.”

“I’ll genuinely consider calling him but no promises.”

“That’s all I can ask.” He cleared his throat. “And uh, there’s something else.”

“Of course there is.” I sighed. “What’s up?”

“After finding out about the divorce, I cut Mom off and she tried to blackmail me. A few days ago when I spoke to Major he was going through the same shit with her talking about what we owed her for her putting her life on hold to raise us and talking about snatching our licenses and shit. I’d keep an eye out.”

I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and nodded while I tried to gather all my feelings.

“Okay. Thanks.”