Chapter 9: Wow

Thursday morning at six thirty Danny awakens and sits up slowly. After stretching he gets out of bed and makes it up. He goes to his drawer and grabs his wallet. He takes out his two thousand dollars places it at the bottom of his drawer and closes it. He grabs his clothes from last night and goes into the hallway. He goes to the laundry room and puts them in the hamper. When he returns he grabs some undergarments and his outfit for the day.

They consist of a black leather jacket, a black shirt, black leather pants, and black tennis shoes. He goes into the bathroom to brush his teeth and shower. After finishing he gets dressed and heads to the kitchen. He makes himself two slices of toast and covers them in peanut butter. Lastly, add a glass of milk. When he finishes he washes his dishes and goes to the living room. He grabs his backpack off the couch and heads out the door to school.

Kimberly awakes and stretches. She makes her bed, brushes her teeth, and showers. When she comes out she goes to her closet and pulls out a gray tracksuit and white tennis shoes. She goes to her dresser and pulls out black undergarments. She gets dressed and puts her hair in a fishtail. She grabs her back in a nearby corner and heads to the dining room. She sees it's empty and heads out the front door.

Deena is standing in front of her body mirror looking at her reflection.

"I know I said this when I woke up earlier but God I just want to say thank you again for your grace and mercy and for allowing me to see another day," Deena says looking up at the ceiling.

She is wearing a white turtleneck dress with a chocolate brown leather waist belt. On her feet are brown leather knee-length two-inch boots. On her face are a pair of tortoiseshell cat eyeglasses. Her only makeup accessory is brown eyeliner. Over her dress is a brown waist-length chinchilla coat. Her hair is styled in a mod flip. She grabs her backpack from her desk chair and goes downstairs.

When she gets to the dining room she sees her mother sitting at the table having coffee. In her hand is the morning newspaper. She glances at Deena who swallows hard.

"Good morning Mother," Deena says waving at her.

"If you're looking for your revered father he isn't here," Chasity says dryly.

"Okay thank you. I love you and I hope you have a good day." Deena says affectionately before walking out the front door.

Chasity scoffs rolling her eyes before sipping her coffee. She then comes across an article making her clench it tightly.

Alvin is at the dining room table with Ingrid and Jason. Alvin is wearing a beige long-sleeve shirt, white jeans, and beige tennis shoes. On the back of his chair is a white jean coat. He had already finished his two biscuits, four pieces of bacon, grits, and four pancakes. The only thing he had left was his non-pulp orange juice. On his left sits Jason. Jason is wearing a black short-sleeved shirt, blue jeans, and black tennis shoes. On the back of his chair is a white and red letterman jacket.

Lastly is Ingrid who's at the head of the table. She is wearing a blood-red blouse with tiger stripes, a black skirt, and black kitten heels. Her hair is styled in a large bun. Her face is made up of black eye shadow, black eyeliner red lipstick.

"So for summer vacation, I was thinking we could visit Katie Springs," Ingrid says breaking the silence.

"That sounds nice but I was hoping I could spend the summer with my friends."

"I don't see the harm in that. Then Jason and I will be going." Ingrid says happily looking over at him.

"I'm not going back there, especially with you," Jason says angrily glaring at her.

"Watch your tone, Jason. I'm not going to continue to tolerate your sass."

"Well, how about you let me go live with my dad like you said you would."

"Jason you had better learn to respect Mother. You only get one and you're going to miss her once God needs her back. Don't forget she's on borrowed time like all of us are."

"Alvin's right. I whipped you enough growing up but I see that didn't work. As much as I don't trust your father, living with him might be what's best for you." Ingrid says when a knock comes on the door.

Ingrid gets up and goes to the foyer. Jason glances at Alvin icily.

"I can't wait so I won't have to look at your ugly face anymore."

"You kn-"

Their conversation is halted by Ingrid yelling. Alvin gets up and runs to the foyer with Jason following slowly behind. When Alvin arrives he witnesses a man slap Ingrid to the floor. Instantly Alvin charges towards the man and tackles him over the thresh hold and onto the porch floor. He straddles him grabs him by his collar and pulls his fist back.

"Don't you ever in your life hit my mother !" Alvin says fiercely with every strike.

Jason watches amused as Ingrid slowly gets to her feet holding her bruised cheek. She rushes outside as Alvin continues punching the man. Ingrid pulls Alvin off the man and he readjusts his black tie and navy blue blazer.

"If you want to take Jason you can. I'm tired of him." Ingrid says angrily squeezing Alvin's shoulder.

Troy looks at Jason who smiles happily.

"Go and pack your things son. I'll be waiting out here." Troy says calmly.

Jason goes upstairs to his bedroom.

"No you will wait in your motherfucking car, now get the hell off my property!" Ingrid shouts with fire in her eyes.

"Fine."

Troy says before glancing at Alvin who's ready for round two. He goes downstairs while they head back inside with Ingrid slamming the door. Alvin looks at Ingrid's face angrily while assessing it.

"I'm so sorry Mother. You didn't deserve that". Alvin says tearfully.

"It's fine. You should get going you don't want to be late."

"Are you sure you're going to be okay?"

"I'll be fine. Besides it's nothing a little makeup can't cover up." Ingrid says reassuringly.

"Okay. Mom I love you." Alvin says affectionately before hugging her.

"I love you too baby. Thank you for protecting me" Ingrid says sniffling before separating.

"It's my job as your son," Alvin says looking in her eyes.

"I'm going to get going."

Alvin goes and gets his coat and backpack from the dining room. When he returns to the foyer he kisses Ingrid on the cheek.

"Have a good day at work Mom," Alvin says before going to the door.

"You too sweetheart," Ingrid says as Alvin opens the door.

Once he's gone an enraged expression takes hold of her face as she looks at the staircase. She then makes a dash for the second floor. When she gets there she goes to Jason's room where she sees he's packing his suitcases.

"How could you just stand by and watch your father strike me?" Ingrid asks tearfully entering the room.

"It's not like you didn't deserve it. You left me in that fire and saved your precious baby boy. It was to hell with me and to heaven with him. You've always spoiled him. Well, now you can spoil him until he's crippled."

Ingrid walks over to him grabs him by his collar and slams him against the wall. Her face is inches away from his.

"Where was all this strength when he slapped you to the floor like the bitch you are?"

Ingrid punches him five times before slinging him to the floor.

"You know what I'm glad you're father came to get your ungrateful ass. After today I don't want a damn thing to do with you. I will always love you but I'm done with trying to steer you on the right path." Ingrid says before walking out.

Jason grabs his suitcases and heads downstairs and to Troy's car.

Alvin, Kimberly, and Deena meet up at the corner. Alvin and Deena look at Kimberly confused.

"Good morning," Kimberly says looking between them.

"Good morning KB, why are you wearing a tracksuit?"

"I didn't want my good clothes to get messed up today."

Alvin nods his head and smiles when he realizes what she means.

"Well, it is winter time so a track suit I think can work against it," Deena says as the trio starts on their way.

"Aren't we going to wait for Danny?" Alvin asks as they enter the crosswalk.

"No. Danny made his decision to desert us and side with the enemy." Kimberly says bitterly.

Alvin and Deena look at each other confused.

The remainder of the walk is shrouded in silence. When they arrive at school they enter and head to the cafeteria. When they get there they go to their usual table and sit down. Kimberly removes her backpack and sets it on top of the table. She then scours the cafeteria for Lucille and Candis. She soon spots them when they enter the cafeteria. They walk to the center table and sit down.

Lucille is wearing a long-sleeved pink dress with white leather go-go boots. Her hair is styled in a mod style with a Chinese bang. Candis is wearing a blue dress with white polka dots and blue kitten heels. Upon making eye contact with them Kimberly gets up and goes over to the table. She slams Lucille's head onto the table before grabbing a fistful of her head and wrapping it around her fist. She proceeds to drag Lucille away from the table to the middle of the cafeteria. All the while Lucille is kicking and screaming.

This gets everyone's attention. Kimberly loosens her grip on her hair and slings her to the floor. Lucille looks at her shocked while Kimberly looks down at her furiously.

"You and your friend wanted to do bitch shit and jump me privately? Well, I'm going to embarrass you publicly. I'll also do you one even better by giving you the honor of throwing the first lick." Kimberly barks with her fists clenched.

Lucille gets to her feet and runs towards Kimberly and tackles her to the floor. Kimberly rolls them over straddles her and starts punching Lucille in her face. She is pulled off of her by Danny who helps Lucille to her feet.

"Kimberly what the hell is wrong with you?!" Danny asks looking at the robust teen.

"What the hell is wrong with me?! This is one of the bitches that attacked me in the girls restroom. The other one is Candis! I'm just getting my well-deserved revenge. I can't believe you're defending her!" Kimberly says angrily as tears fill her eyes.

She then scours the cafeteria. When she spots Candis she goes to the table and grabs Candis by her hair. She drags her by her hair lifts her to her feet and slams her face first into the wall. She then turns her around and starts punching her in the face. She then knees her in her stomach three times. While doubled over Kimberly knees her in her face and watches her hit the wall and slide down. She then returns to her table and retrieves her backpack. She looks at her friends who are wearing different expressions. Alvin is shocked while Deena is disappointed. She leaves the cafeteria and heads to the principal's office. When she gets there she sits in the reception area.

She crosses her legs and places her back in the neighboring chair. The floor is hardwood. The walls are white with black baseboards. On the walls are positive quotes and awards bestowed by the city. A few feet away is a long brown desk with a granite countertop. On it is a gold and brown nameplate that says receptionist. Soon Principal Hawthorne comes out of a brown door with a silver round door knob.

Principal Terry Hawthorne is in her early sixties with pale slightly sunken skin. Her eyes are a cold gray and her short hair is burgundy. Her face is made up with dark red lipstick and black eyeliner. She is wearing a black pantsuit with a red blouse and black pointed-toe stilettos. She is surprised to see Kimberly but smiles nonetheless.

"Good morning Ms. Bradshaw what can I do for you?" Principal Hawthorne says warmly in a smooth voice.

"I'm here to turn myself in for attacking two female students" Kimberly confesses.

Principal Hawthorne sighs heavily.

"Come to my office."

Kimberly grabs her backpack and goes through the door. They head down the end of the hallway and turn left. Principal Tucker's office has peach walls with black baseboards. In the center of the office is a Cherry wood desk. In front of them are two black cushion chairs with orange-brown armrests. Along both walls are degrees and certificates. In the right corner is a black file cabinet.

Principal Hawthorne shuts the door and goes and sits in her tall black leather chair. She sighs heavily while grabbing a pen and opening her notebook.

"What happened Kimberly? Why did you attack your fellow students?"

"I was attacked by Lucille Mortenson and Candis Boudreaux in the girl's restroom yesterday. So in response, I exacted vengeance. I couldn't let them think they could jump me and get away with it. What you put out will work its way back into the fabric of your life. Sometimes it comes faster than expected and in their case, that's what happened." Kimberly explains as Principal Hawthorne writes everything down.

A knock then comes on the door.

"Come in."

The door opens revealing Nurse Knox. She is wearing a white dress with white stockings and white tennis shoes. She looks at Kimberly disappointed before looking at Principal Hawthorne.

"Lucille sustained a busted lip and several lost teeth. Candis on the other hand has a fractured nose, busted nose, and a busted lip."

Principal Hawthorne looks at Kimberly sternly.

"Thank you, Nurse Knox. Are they going to be okay?"

"They're going to need a physician's assistance for recovery but they will be fine."

Principal Hawthorne sighs relieved.

"Thank you so much, Nurse Knox."

"You're welcome, ma'am." Nurse Knox says shutting the door.

"You are suspended from tomorrow through next Wednesday. I hope you're proud of yourself."

"No ma'am I am not proud of myself however I do believe in protecting myself and getting even. I've heard all of my life that it's God's job to handle your enemies but with those types of people revenge takes too long to pay them a visit. I'm sorry I'm not the model student you hoped for. I don't need you to forgive this iron-fist hippie." Kimberly says grabbing her backpack and walking to the door.

"I'm not the one who needs to forgive you. I hope doing your suspension you think about what you've done emotionally to those girls."

As she grabs the knob she looks back at Principal Hawthorne.

"That advice should be for those two miserable souls. You have a good day Principal Hawthorne." Kimberly says before leaving.

Principal Hawthorne sighs heavily placing her face in her hands.

Kimberly heads to Ms. Gromlin's classroom. When she enters the chatter quickly ceases and all eyes are on her. She looks at Ms. Gromlin who is at her desk. She is wearing a black short-sleeved dress with a pearl necklace, black stockings, and black shoes. She has a look of disappointment on her face. Kimberly momentarily locks eyes and a cold expression captures her face.

She goes to her desk and sits down. She takes out her notebook and a pencil and looks at the board. She sees several questions on the chalkboard and begins writing them down.

"So how bad did you get it?"

"I'm suspended from tomorrow through next Wednesday," Kimberly responds glancing back at him.

"Well, I can't say I blame you."

"What do you mean?"

"Before I left for school Jason's father came to our house. I saw him slap my mother." Alvin says angrily getting Kimberly and Deena's attention.

Deena covers her mouth while Kimberly takes a serious expression.

"What did you do?" Kimberly asks disgusted.

"I kicked his motherfucking ass. I wasn't going to stand there and do nothing. Besides I don't believe any man should hit a woman. Jason just stood by and did nothing."

Kimberly closes her eyes.

The events of Alvin's attack replays in her head and the incident from yesterday replays. When she opens them she purses her lips.

"I'm so proud of you for protecting her. At least you know what loyalty means." Kimberly says taking his left hand into hers and squeezing it.

"Come on Kim you don't have to rag on Danny like that. Some people just aren't equipped for battle." Alvin says understandingly.

"Equipped or not he should have helped us. But then again it was true when he said we were business associates and not friends. I guess he had to show and not just tell."

Kimberly then glances over at Danny. She sees Danny has his eyes focused on his work. Kimberly then returns her eyes to her notebook.

Darwin is at his office when his door comes and Chasity storms in. She is wearing a sleeveless black dress with a blazer and black pointed-toe stilettos. Her face is made up of black eye shadow, black eyeliner, and red lipstick. On her right arm is a black strap leather purse with a golden clip. In her right hand is the newspaper. She throws it on his desk and folds her arms.

"What the hell is this Darwin?!" Chasity asks outraged.

"Good morning to you too Chasity."

"It's going to be a bad morning if I find out you laid down a card in this."

Darwin looks down at the newspaper. After reading it he looks up at Chasity raising his right eyebrow inquisitively.

"What is it about this article that's so bad?"

"Gregory Collins is supposed to be incarcerated at Ella Mona State Prison. Yet he's out seeking vengeance against Carol Bradshaw."

Darwin purses his lips.

"That's what Samantha told me but what does that have to do with you?"

"I'm the one that prosecuted him and sent him to prison. But that's not all I did. We have a history that if publicized would destroy my career."

Darwin gets up and goes to close his office door.

"What kind of history?" Darwin asks placing his hands in his pockets.

"I'm not at liberty to say but I will tell you it would warrant jealousy and jail time."

"Well, the answer to your question is no. I have nothing to do with his release." Darwin says simply going to stand beside her.

"Is that why Samantha was here? Was she trying to convince you to defend him?" Chasity asks clenching her fists.

"Yes, and I told her I wouldn't," Darwin says bringing partial relief to Chasity.

"Good because that bastard doesn't deserve to walk the street. But even still I have to worry about him." Chasity says looking down at the ground.

"When you said it warrants jealousy and jail time I knew exactly what you meant. You were having an affair with him. You got his murder charges dropped. But knowing you as I do you had some dirt on the judge to keep your license intact and Collins out of jail." Darwin deduces making Chasity laugh.

"You're wrong about one thing. I didn't have any dirt on the judge. You know I don't play those types of games. However, Gregory did get off but was indeed sent to jail for aggravated assault. It was only a matter of time before he would be released. However, nothing prepared me for what I would read in the Kingthorn Diary. When I heard he came here looking for Bradshaw I was certain he would be looking for me too." Chasity says walking to the door.

"What are you going to do when you see him?" Darwin asks as Chasity grabs the door knob.

"Wow."

"What does wow mean?"

"I haven't heard concern in your voice in over ten years. It's nice to know that you still care about me."

Darwin purses his lips sighing.

"Don't misunderstand. My love for you died a long time ago. The only reason I'm concerned is because you're Deena's mother. As much as I mentally kick myself for loving and impregnating you here we are. I just want to make sure you're safe for her sake. Even though you mistreat her she still loves you and would be devastated if something happened to you."

"Either way I'm glad you're showing concern for your queen," Chasity says before leaving.

Darwin returns to his desk and opens a folder.

Chasity is outside in the hallway sobbing softly. Realizing she's in public she dabs her eyes with her fingers and heads to the elevator.

Lunch arrives and Kimberly, Alvin, and Deena are standing at the buffet. They each have blue trays. On Kimberly and Alvin's tray are chocolate milk cartons. On Deena's tray is a bottle of water.

"I'm surprised Principal Hawthorne is letting you finish today," Alvin says placing a plastic cup of peaches on his tray.

"So am I. I guess she figured it would be pointless to send me home when school hadn't even started yet. But I hope while I'm out you guys can keep me updated on my classwork." Kimberly says placing some spaghetti on her tray.

"Don't worry Kimberly I will take care of it," Deena reassures making Kimberly smile.

"Thank you, Dee," Kimberly says placing some salad on her tray.

"You're welcome."

"So what are you going to do about Danny? I mean he's really good at vocal harmonies and arrangements." Alvin says changing the subject.

"Remember what I told you. When I'm ready I'll approach him." Kimberly says as she stands off the side waiting for Alvin and Deena.

"I hope it's soon because my mom is going home to New York this summer. I told her I wanted to stay here and spend the summer with you guys." Alvin says as they walk to their table.

"You did that for us?" Kimberly asks shocked.

"Of course. As much as I miss home my yearning for you guy's friendship is far greater." Alvin says as they sit down.

"That's really sweet Alvin," Kimberly says as a smile stretches across her lips.

"I agree, that is very admirable," Deena says in a motherly tone squeezing his shoulder.

"Thanks, guys. Our science project is due March 17. I hope you and Danny can repair your friendship so we can present it." Alvin says taking a bite of cheese and beef enchilada.

"I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that he protected Lucille knowing what she did to me," Kimberly says opening her milk carton.

"Well, I can only imagine how Danny feels. He claims he isn't our friend but when he saw your face I could feel his heart shatter. He's emotionally conflicted. All you can do is allow him to sort through his feelings. When he's ready he'll come to you." Deena comments getting their attention.

"You really have an eye for reading emotions," Alvin says making Deena blush.

"When you've experienced what I have you see things differently," Deena says as her blush disappears.

"So have you guys decided on what you're wearing to the Winter Formal?" Alvin asks changing the subject.

"I haven't. I'm going to go to Francesca's and look around." Kimberly says excitedly.

"I don't have any dresses in my closet that I think are suited for this occasion," Deena says looking at her tray.

"What kind of dresses do you have Dee?" Kimberly asks looking at her.

"Spaghetti straps and formal evening gowns. I've worn all of those dresses to charity events and legal balls. It's time for something new." Deena says happily.

"You guys take decades to find outfits. When you finally do it takes you an eternity to get ready." Alvin jokes placing his hands on his face horrified.

"You're a boy so you won't understand. Beauty takes time." Kimberly says suavely looking up at the ceiling and clasping her hands together.

The remainder of lunch is eaten in laughter between the trio. Lucille and Danny are in the nurse's office. Olivia is in her office getting a note together.

"Thank you for protecting me from that beast," Lucille says holding an ice pack on her left cheek.

"Why did you and Candis jump Kimberly?" Danny asks.

"She bumped into Candis and thought that no consequence would be given. I did what any sane person would have done." Lucille says arrogantly.

"No what you did was cowardly. You two wanted to embarrass her privately. Karma's a bitch and fortunately, it visited sooner than later." Danny says standing up.

"You're my boyfriend! You're supposed to be on my side" Lucille says offended.

"Not anymore. We're done!" Danny says before storming off.

"We'll see how done you are," Lucille says clenching her fist.