Chapter 12

Aaron

It has been a long two weeks before this day arrived. Mom refused to tell me anything more about what she planned, but this is the day it’s finally supposed to happen. I don’t have so much as a time, just that I need to be home with mom today.

The closer it’s gotten to this day, the more intense it’s become between the three of us. I think mom gets off on knowing something we don’t. As passionate as she was before telling me she could make the arrangement, it’s been nothing compared to what’s happened since.

To be honest, I need a break from mom and more than happy to stay at home and relax with ma. She was surprised all I wanted to do today was spend time with her, but it was under the condition she not bring up my lack of a girlfriend. If she even came close to suspecting the truth, I think she’d have a nervous breakdown.

Ma’s getting out of the shower and I already know she won’t bother with putting so much as perfume on. If she won’t wear it to go out, then it isn’t going to happen staying inside. I don’t mind ma’s lack of attention to her face, since that’s all I’ve ever know and don’t want to change anything now.

I’m sitting on the couch doing my best to hide my nerves, since I can’t let on today is any different. Anything minor can be covered up by my finally reaching the all important age of adulthood, but I can’t show anything beyond that. Ma’s happy I want to spend the day with her, but she’s a little suspicious about my intent.

The bathroom door opens as I receive a text from Marius’ uncle, which surprises me a little. I’ve talked to him a few times, but he’s not the easiest person to get to know. He seems cool with me being with his sister, but it’s not something we’ve ever actually discussed.

His Uncle Titus spends a lot of time at the gym and has the muscles to show for his effort. I’m pretty sure he can bench press Marius and me without breaking a sweat. Had it just been the muscles, maybe he wouldn’t be so intimidating, but there’s something about his shaved head that makes his dark eyes look a little crazy.

When someone says the last person you want to meet in a dark alley, they probably picture him. Then again, I wouldn’t want to run into this guy anywhere regardless of light. It isn’t the thought of him using me in place of weights that concerns me, but the idea of him tearing an arm off my body and hitting me over the head.

He’s threatened to do that a few times, but always with a grin. Marius finds the threat to be in good humor and laughs his ass off, but I don’t get the joke. Maybe if his Uncle Titus were to say something similar to him, I’d finally find humor in the words.

I’m grateful for one thing. He hardly ever comes by when I’m there and never stays long. No matter how many times I’ve been told he’s just joking, there’s something disconcerting about being told your going to have your arm torn off and used as a blunt instrument.

I read the text as I wonder why he’s reaching out to me. Mom sent me. Is your ma home?

I type back quickly to take advantage of the closed bathroom door, since I’ve got very little time before she joins me on the couch. Why?

I’m the guarantee.

Guarantee for what?

B-day BJ.

I’ve got no idea what the hell’s happening, but don’t want to type anything to piss him off. She’s home.

She with you?

Bathroom.

How long?

5

Be knocking then. Play along.

Understood.

There was no further text from the last person I want in my house, but he must be close. The bathroom door opens as I jump a little, but fortunate ma didn’t see it. I’m way too nervous right now to think clearly and just have to buy a little time.