CHANGING LOVE LANES

INTRODUCTION vii

1 ASHANTI 1

2 CLAIRE 5

3 PASTOR JAMES 9

4 DEBBIE 15

5 RICHARD & MONICA 19

6 JAVON 27

7 CAROL & TODD 31

8 BLAKE 49

9 TANYA & LARRY 57

10 KAREN 65

11 KEITH 73

12 CASEY 79

13 LAWSUIT 87

14 BEVERLY REMINISCES 93

15 KERRI 105

16 ANN & TERRY 111

17 BLACKMAIL 117

18 CHURCH 127

19 SECRETS 135

“FLUID SEXUALITY” 171

LOVE SCRIPTURES 184

SONGS OF THE HEART 186

INTRODUCTION

When I started reflecting on the dating life for myself and others, I discovered that there was a need for people to find out what they really wanted in a relationship. So, my journey began by asking about fifteen people about their personal relationships. I discovered that people received information from others on which type of relationship they should be in.

Women had overwhelming pressure to be married and have babies before age thirty. Men just wanted sexual encounters and just a friend to talk too. Parents pressured their children to give them grandchildren. Education, careers, religion, physical appearance, and finances played a huge part in who they would date and marry.

Both men and women were never 100 percent serious about unconditional love. Intimacy and spirituality were last on their list. Women dated or got married because they wanted to please their parents or girlfriends. They had to show they had a man in their life and a career. It was more like a “A Show and Tell Type of Thing.”

When women got married, they thought they had fulfilled their life dream, but happiness for them was a far distance away. Lack of true unconditional love, eventually led to cheating, separations, and divorces.

On the other hand, older men decided to marry because they had gotten a woman pregnant. However, marriage life led them into second guessing themselves and their love for their wife. These influences made from their parents caused men to have cold feet or cheat on their wives. Men really wanted the single life of partying with other women without commitment.

For men who had girlfriends, they did not mind if their woman got pregnant by them. They would care for the baby but would not marry the woman. When women were trying to spend too much time with men. Men would ask for space from them. When talking to men, they expressed that they felt like the woman was trying to entrap them, or she was too clingy or needy.

When women started to dictate to men how they should act within the home with finances, with sex, and with what friends’ men could hang around, men felt like women tried to control them. They felt like women were taking over their time with their bromance. This caused communication barriers which led to breakups and divorces.

Changing Love Lanes is a fictitious novel about romance, erotica, fluid sexuality, patience, scandal, confusion, greed, pain, suffering, selfishness, and life struggles within relationships. It is a guide to the reality of love, intimacy, and trust. It removes our masks and shows our partners who we really are when living at free will. It is my intent to open couples’ eyes to the reality of what happens when they rush into relationships without truly knowing their partner.

Without love, trust, respect, intimacy, and spirituality in your life, you will never find your true- life partner.

- G. J. Warren

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control: against such things there is no law.”

-GALATIANS 5:22-23 ESV

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own ways, it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

-CORINTHIANS 13:4-7 ESV  

CHAPTER

1

ASHANTI

I

t is Tuesday morning and a nice sunny day in Atlanta, Georgia. Ms. Reynold’s has just arrived at her office to find out that two of the drugs her company has been promoting to cure the Covid 19 Virus and diabetes neuropathy has caused serious complications for twenty patients. Two people have already died from taking Comtrex medications.

Ashanti contacts her lawyer to discuss strategies to prevent public lawsuits. Tanya Okapi answers the phone at Welch & Associates. She is the CEO and top attorney at the firm. Her specialty area is dealing with high profile civil and criminal cases. Her father, Leonard opened the firm when she was five.

Tanya is aware of the allegations and the media story about the drugs that caused people health complications. She is aware of the two fatalities.

“Good morning. Thank you for answering your phone. I need your help. Have you seen the news? This is going to cost us a fortune.”

“Yes. I am aware of the allegations of the drugs that caused twenty people to be in the hospital for Covid 19 Virus and caused two people to die from the diabetes medications. I will need all the information on the medications, laboratory testing, lab employees contact information, side- affects, and FDA regulations. I will subpoena all the families’ criminal backgrounds, their medical records, and all pre-existing health issues. Our team is on it.”

“Thanks girl. This is a hot mess. Thank you for having my back.”

“No problem. That is what GSU alumni do. We help each other out. I will contact you later to set up a press conference with the media.”

Ashanti hangs up the phone with Tanya. The receptionist calls her on the phone.

“Good morning, Ms. Reynolds, there is a male at the front desk waiting to see you. His name is Javon Hendrix.”

“Rachelle, you may send him up.”

“Sir, you may go up now. She is in the last office on the 10th floor. When you exit the elevator turn right.”

“Thank you.”

Javon pushes the elevator button. He gets off on the 10th floor. He is wearing a tailored fitted navy-blue suit with a low-cut hairstyle. He is also carrying flowers with his briefcase in his hand.

He arrives at Ashanti’s office and knocks on the door.

“Come in”

Javon walks into the office and greets Ashanti with a hug and kiss. He gives her flowers.

“Thank you. These are so beautiful. So, what brings you down this way?”

“Well. I heard about the deaths on the news related to your company. I wanted to make sure you were okay.”

“Thanks. I appreciate you. I just got off the phone with Tanya. So, we are working on it.”

“Is there anything I can do to make it better?”

“Bring back the dead to life and make this story disappear.”

“I wish I could baby. But how about I give you a massage and cook dinner tonight.”

“That sounds good. I have not had a body massage from you in a while. I was starting to think some other woman had your attention.”

“Now baby, you know we both have been busy. It has been a while since we had sex. I was thinking you had another man taking care of you.”

“You’re right. I am spending more time with you. Give me a kiss. I will see you tonight. Do not forget the wine and Tequila.”

“Somebody is going hard. But I got you. See you later, baby.”

Javon kisses Ashanti. Then, he walks out the office while Ashanti has Rachelle to pull files and schedule a staff meeting.

CHAPTER

2

CLAIRE

Claire is chief of the fire department. She is thirty-one years old. She has a complicated relationship with Kerri. They have been in and out of their relationship for about ten years. Claire has a history of cheating on Kerri. Kerri caught Claire with other females’ numbers and text messages in her phone.

Both Claire and Kerri come to my office for counseling sessions. I do not understand why they are together. They should just be sexual partners without a relationship, label, or title. One minute they are loving each other and the next minute, Kerri is cutting up Claire’s clothes. I do not see how a person in a top position would allow so much dysfunction. But without their craziness, I would not have the top counseling consultant company in Atlanta.

SWLGTALKS Counseling charges $180 for individual sessions and $240 for couple sessions per hour. No refunds.

I remember the first session with them. Kerri complained about Claire being out at night with other women and never inviting her to gatherings. Claire had advised me that she and co-workers would go out for drinks after work. She did not want to share her relationship with Kerri with her co-workers.

Claire figured that Kerri was sweet and naïve. She felt other men and women would make a pass or flirt with her. She knew that Kerri had a fair complexion, hazel eyes with long hair and was quite attractive. Kerri was a good girl and she wanted her at home.

Even though, Kerri was a good girl, Claire knew that when Kerri drank alcohol, she would talk and tell everything. Kerri was not able to control her liquor consumption without later acting out towards her.

During my sessions, I would have them to write in their journal what they cared most about each other. I would ask them about their past relationships and what caused them to end. I asked, “What could you have done differently in your relationships to make it last? I asked, “Is sex the only thing you have in common. And last, “Do you love each other in an unconditional way?”

Both were confused about their relationship. They had a hard

time communicating with each other. Keri was insecure about

Claire leaving her. She felt this way because Claire had cheated on

Kerrie before. Kerrie’s ex-lover also left her for a man. Sex,

money, and a high-profile career kept them together. 

THERAPY SESSIONS

We talked about forgiveness and how to move on and build intimacy within their relationship with trust. But Kerri would always become upset in the session because of Claire not spending time with her. She would always accuse her of cheating. I suggested they both see me separate.

Due to their tension with each other and need for understanding each other’s needs, I asked them to cease having sexual relations for two weeks. This was the test of the century because both loved having sex.

They agreed to individual sessions for six weeks and no sex. I advised them to continue to do exercises given to them on how to build trust and intimacy. We would reconvene with couple sessions after they completed their individual exercises.

CHAPTER

3

PASTOR JAMES

I have known Pastor James Azuri for about twenty years. His father and I attended high school together. He later pursued his theology degree at Morehouse College. He is the brother of Claire, and his parents are pastors of a church. I would have never thought James would go into the divinity and theology career field.

He was a heartbreaker in high school and rumor has it that he still likes to see girls on the pole. But anyway, I see him for sessions twice a month. It is always about marriage, sexual desires, and about his so called, Christian girlfriend, Debbie. She wants sex, but he is trying to wait until marriage and do the right thing biblically. He expressed that he goes to the strip club with friends, so he will not cheat on her.

Wow! What a story I get from him and others who try to hide sexual desires. He loves Debbie, but he is afraid that she will not wait to have sex before marrying him.

Therefore, to keep Debbie around, he has himself in debt. He has rented a condominium for her which he pays all her bills, and he just purchased her a new car.

Usually, this happens after you are engaged but I can see Pastor James loves Debbie. His problem is with church practices and with his male friends influencing his behavior to not get stuck with one woman before soaring his oaks.

I can see the glow in his eyes and the smile on his face when he says Debbie’s name. I am concerned that he feels that he can never find another woman like her. It is though he does not have enough self- esteem within himself to know that he is worth more than just having a woman. He needs to know that God chose him because he loves him. And he can survive without Debbie or any woman.

I want him to realize his self- worth and for him to know that a pretty woman on his arms, does not make him a winner. God made him a winner when he chose him. I do not want him rushing into a marriage because of what his parents or Debbie wants him to do.

I needed James to realize that if a woman cannot respect him and his desires which are within the spiritual Godly realm, then she does not deserve him.

Having a woman or money will not buy him happiness. It just makes him feel good for that moment. It is a temporary fix. I tell all my clients, “Do not ever overdose on trying to please others at the expense of losing your self-worth.” 

STRIP CLUB

A person will explore the pleasures of beautiful body artwork in the most criticized places. Sometimes a wife, husband, boyfriend, girlfriend, or single person can go to dark places for life entertainment. Although, strip clubs are known as an ungodly place to visit, dancers believe in God and are Christians. I am sure dancers did not always want to be strippers. It was just a fast and smarter way to make money. It was a choice made to survive and meet their basic needs.

Besides, we all love beautiful men and women bodies. We are lucky if we have a spouse who has a banging body who will dance for us. Well. Since we do not have spouses who will dance for us. Atlanta has the most beautiful ladies and gentlemen in the world. So, why wouldn’t they show off their bodies for an hour or two and make $700 dollars, minus $210 to the club owner? Strippers take home about $500 a night on an average.

Dancers receive $1000+ if the club has a special guess or famous person in town.

People should look at strip clubs like a church, restaurant, or store business. Owners hire people without education. And they hire felony and misdemeanor criminal talents. I take strippers jobs seriously. If you can make someone, give up their paycheck each day, week, and month. You are truly gifted.

I know strippers who make more money than a police officer, a social worker, a nurse, and a teacher. And they only have a high school diploma. I have counseled strippers who do not have a high school diploma, but they live in mansions like porn stars. They are quite intelligent, they have assets, they invest in stocks, and real estate.

So, I do not judge them because they pay me well for therapy. I look at the business like being in church.

Members and non-members pay pastors a salary, pastors pay special guess singers, pastors pay associates pastors, pastors pay guest speakers and pastors pay the band for special occasions and for regular services.

We the public viewers (audience) give ten percent or more in tithes and offerings to the church to see God’s wonderful service. The only difference in the strip clubs and church is they have strong alcohol and nudity. But we all are sinners and not one of us is good per Jesus.

Dancers are paying for their own education, for their basic needs, for their children’s expenses, and they are saving to start a business with the money they made from the public. The audience needs to realize they have beautiful bodies for others to admire seeing.

Now, I am not saying to strip for the sexual pleasure of others. But what I am saying is that “the beautiful body artwork and person that God chose should not be condemned.” So, do not be saying, “I said, God wants these beautiful men and women to strip for a living.” LOL.

However, I am saying that there is always a means to an end. Do not look down or belittle anything or anyone God has made. Besides you Christians, pastors, politicians, CEOs, and professional persons are the main ones in incognito status, going to see strippers and dancers perform.

People even like drag queen shows. It is all entertainment and is not killing anyone. It is also legal. So, parents and Christians stop judging strippers and anyone else.

I love dancers. I like the entertainment because I need an outlet from listening to psychological problems every day. I can just be me, at the club, and not have to hear anybody’s problems.

ERICA

I remember going to the strip club with my friend, Erica. A

friend of hers was getting married and the party was at Strokers in

Tucker, Georgia. It was an interracial lesbian couple party. They

had alcoholic beverages and food. Everyone was having fun.

Someone paid for a stripper to come over to my table and give

me a dance.

This beautiful girl came over with a leather outfit on. She sat

on my lap.

I said, “I didn’t pay for a dance. Let me pay you first.”

She said, “You are good baby. I got you.”

It was the guy who had been staring at me as I sat near the bar

and pole area. He resembled Rick. He had the same body shape,

haircut style, and complexion. But I am not for sure that it was

him.

Erica was like “What? Get it girl!”

This beautiful and sexy girl started putting her breast all over

my face. She was moving her hips while laughing. Then, another

dancer came off the pole and got behind me and started to kiss me

on the neck.

I did not know what to do. I had these two sexy chicks turning

me on sexually. This was not supposed to happen to me. But in all

fun, I let it happen and the girls gave me their numbers afterwards.

One of the girls was in medical school studying to be a doctor. The

other one worked in marketing and sales.

These ladies are smart and use stripping to make a living. And

one day you will be seeing them in a hospital emergency room, in

the bank, and in a law firm. Just know that your dollars contributed

to their professional careers. But do not spend all your check in the

club and go broke.

Remember, they are strippers for a reason. Stripping means to

remove, leave bare or take away from something. So, check your

pockets. LOL. 

CHAPTER

4

DEBBIE

Debbie is twenty-seven years old. She is a beautiful black female with coco butter skin. She has a nice smile like a movie star. She works as a real estate broker and agent at a top realty company in Duluth. She is a graduate of Spelman, and her parents are doctors. She wants to marry Pastor James and have her first child before age twenty-nine.

She suffers from anxiety and is a perfectionist at everything. I attended a party she had given for the Delta Sorority. I felt like I was anxious. She and her line sisters asked me so many questions about relationships that I needed a drink.

It was a party with prominent leaders in the room. She had

state representatives, lawyers, and CEOs of companies. She had

African American women in the room along with men from the

Kappa and Alpha Fraternities. I must say the AUC prepared them

for distinguished career opportunities. 

THINKING ABOUT IT!

I said to myself, “No wonder why it is taking their boyfriends and girlfriends forever to marry them. They talk too much and complain too much about what their boyfriends and girlfriends were not doing in the relationship.”

Yes. I said, “Girlfriends too. Because she had lesbians and bisexual women there. They wanted me to tell them how to understand their partners better.

Debbie was walking around making sure no napkins hit the floor and no wine glasses were at the end of the table. She was so psychotic, but the food and drinks were good. Type A personalities have OCD issues, but they plan a party well and everything is in order with them.

But their personal life is always in chaos. They always blame others for breakdowns in relationships. It is as if they have a narcistic personality complex. I do not mind counseling them because they have the money to see me once a week, so I can have food on my table.

I can travel anywhere I want to go, and I can afford luxury items, like cars, homes, clothes, and jewelry. I do not discriminate when it comes to disorders, problems, careers, race, color, nationality, sororities, fraternities, or sexual orientation.

DOOR

Ryan walks in the door wearing an Alpha Phi Alpha Jersey. He hugged his Delta sisters and Alpha brothers. He observes Debbie wearing her pink, yellow and red dress with stilettos heels. She has just placed her glass on the tray of the server.

He grabs two glasses of wine off another server’s tray. Then, he walks over and hands a glass to Debbie.

She smiles and says, “Ryan, what are you doing here? I thought you left town and were living in Texas.”

“I was there for a while with Angie, but we broke up.”

“I am sorry to hear that. Are you okay?”

“I’m good. We have one son together. Jr is two years old, and we share joint custody. We got divorced a year ago.”

“Wow a son. I know you are happy about it. James and I are together. We want a family soon.”

“You and Pastor James are together. He was a player at Morehouse. He surprised me when he became a pastor. But I must say he draws a crowd at his parent’s church. God can change anyone.”

“Yes. He sure can.”

“So, how long have you too been married?”

“We are not married yet. We are taking our time getting our careers and finances together. But we have been together for three years.”

“Wow! Three years is a long time to wait to get married. Especially, when you have the right person. I would not wait a year to marry a sweetie like you.”

“That is sweet of you to say.”

“I mean it. You know we would have been good together, but your daddy wanted you to marry a doctor.”

“Yeah. Daddy always wanted someone in the family to become a doctor and he wanted me to marry someone in the medical field.”

“A preacher is better than a music producer. I am sure James will set a date with you and all your dreams will come true. But if not, I would love to take you out to dinner tomorrow night. I have a new artist singing downtown at the State Farm Arena.”

“I’ll let you know.”

Ryan takes Debbie’s number and puts it into his phone. He walks away and socializes with his fraternity brothers.

CHAPTER

5

RICHARD & MONICA

The pastor and first lady are the leaders of Faithful Shepard Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. Dr. Pastor Richard is a Morehouse Graduate with a degree in Theology and Engineering. His wife, Monica is a Morris Brown College Graduate with an Education degree, and she has a Counseling Doctorate degree from Emory University. They are the parents of Claire and Pastor James Azuri.

Pastor Richard and his wife, Monica are always helping families out, even if they are not members of the church or give tithes. They do not discriminate on anyone who comes to the lord’s house for healing and prayer. The key issues they have is that they do not approve of who their children are dating. They expect their children to marry people who are equally yoke and have perfection while in the public.

They want James and Claire to hide their true personalities and display masks in front of the congregation. Pastor Richards wants James with a woman willing to do church duties and who is submissive.

Richard’s father was a pastor, and his mother was an educator. He lived in a home where his father was in control of all decisions. His mother taught school and came home and prepared meals for the family.

He had to read the bible every day and participate in all church activities. He was not able to hang out with friends on the weekends. He had to work hard in school.

His mother was in the choir and on the women’s church board of directors. She made sure the women’s attire was acceptable to the pastor and congregation. Women had to wear dresses on every Sunday and during bible study. They could not wear skirts or dresses above the knees. They could not show breast cleavage in the church to entice men. Women dresses could not have a split in it.

Richard could not eat in his room as a teenager. He had to help prepare the table and eat at the dinner table with his parents and siblings. He had to say grace and bless the meals. Boys did not do dishes or wash clothes in his home. 

HOME

Claire drives over to her parent’s home. She rings the doorbell.

Monica opens the door and greets her daughter.

“Well. It is about time you showed up. Your father and I hardly ever see you and James for Sunday dinner. You still in that world of sin.”

“Nice to see you too. I am doing well. How are you mother?”

“I am well. I do not want to come off rude or run you away baby. But you know you could do much better.”

“You mean do better with a man. Well. Mom that is not going to happen.”

“I keep hearing your colleagues talking about you and that girl having problems. I heard you all were fighting and using profanity in the building you live in. I do not know why or how you got involved in this sexual bizarre behavior.”

“Really! Mom, we are good. We argue like any other couple, and no one is fighting. I know not to hit her.”

“We brought you up in the church. Did anyone ever touch your body in an inappropriately way while you were at camp or at your cousin’s home?”

“Nobody touched me mom. You are a psychologist. I would have told you. This is from God. I asked God to take these feelings away, but he has not removed it from my spirit. So, mom accept me as God does. And you know my girlfriend’s name, is Kerri.”

“I just do not understand why you shaved your hair off one side of your head. Why do you have a nose piercing on the right side of your face? It is already hard enough seeing you as a firefighter.”

“Mom. Piercing and tattoos do not make me. It is what is inside of my heart and how I treat others. My character is what counts. You are so concerned about your public images and not about your children’s heart. Does my happiness count?”

“Yes. I want you to be happy. Claire, you are so beautiful. Men would throw themselves at you. That guy, Michael still asks about you.”

“Mom. If I had married him. I would be divorced. I would have cheated on him and broke his heart. I would rather be honest with me and the person I am dating. The marriage would have been an embarrassment to you and daddy at the church.”

“But what about kids. Don’t you want children? I am sure, her parents want her to have kids too.”

“Sure. I will have one and she will have one if we get married.”

“I mean in a natural way with a man entering your body. Not from some stranger’s sperm in a test tube.”

“You mean be a stranger like Jesus was when he was placed in Mary’s womb. Remember, she did not get pregnant by Joseph.”

“Wait a minute! That is different. You cannot compare Jesus spiritual miracle to a sperm donor. And another thing, you are getting older, and your eggs will not last forever. You also are in a dangerous field of work.”

“Mom. Just accept the fact that you will have grandbabies, but they will come from a sperm donor or from my future spouse or from James. Just because I climb ladders, I still want to experience having a baby. But without a man lying on top of me.”

“Well. That is good and you should. I guess we would accept a baby from a donor since it would be from your body as well. Do you know when are you going to have a baby? You are already thirty-one years old, and you are not getting any younger.”

“We will let you know after we are married.”

Monica shakes her head and walks out the room into the kitchen.

She asked Claire, “Will you be staying for dinner?”

“Yes. What did you cook?”

“Salmon, brown rice, broccoli and yams.”

“Sounds good. May I have a plate for myself and Kerri for tomorrow’s lunch? Only if you have any extra to spare.”

“Sue baby.”

Pastor Richard walks into the kitchen. He hugs and kisses Claire as she sits at the dinner table. Then, he hugs his wife, Monica.

“Baby. You have it smelling good in here. I am ready to eat. Claire, glad to see you. Have you seen your brother? And what about that young lady he is dating?”

“Yes daddy. I saw him yesterday. He and Debbie are doing well.”

“Well. That is good. Is he coming to dinner?”

“I’m not sure. You may want to call him. He is the pastor at your church.”

“We had a few words about his relationship. He is in his feelings, but I guess he will be all right.”

Monica brings two plates of food with lemonade over to the table for her husband and daughter. They bless the food and eat.

“Richard. Claire has suggested she will give us grandchildren. She wants to experience childbirth for herself.”

Richard clears his throat.

“That is good news but that situation you got going on will not bring a baby. Two women cannot produce.”

“Dad. I just had a conversation with mom. I will be doing In vitro fertilization to have a baby after I am married.”

“Who are you marrying? I know not a woman. Now if you married Keith or Michael and you got pregnant by one of them, I would be so happy. But you are talking about having some sperm tube baby.”

“Daddy, I do not want a man. I love Kerri. But I could ask Keith or Michael for their sperm, since they are on your top list for a husband and father.”

“Baby girl. I just want the best for you. Besides, I heard that girlfriend of yours is a clown in public. She is good looking but loco.”

“I cannot win from losing with you and mom. Kerri is a good woman.

She has an excellent job and has her own business. She makes good money and treats me well.”

“You need a man. But you just do not know it. If you have a child, they need a good Christian foundation. I am not going to argue with you, do as you please. I will not support your marriage unless God sends me a sign. I can love you from a distance.”

“I can have a baby out of wedlock and not marry Kerri, but the child would be known as, illegitimate or be called, a “bastard.” The church would not approve of it as well.”

“You will not know what the stranger has in their genes. The baby may have all kinds of medical issues.”

“Daddy. I have seen married couples who have children who have birth defects and health related problems. And they are Christians without any pre-existing health issues.”

Claire recites bible verses for her father to remind him that children may be born with birth defects and disabilities not because of sin or what their parents have done.

And his disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Having said these things, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva. Then he anointed the man’s eyes with the mud.

-John 9:2-7 ESV

“That is enough. Let us just eat and enjoy each other’s company.”

“Well at least you know your bible still.”

Claire smiles and chuckles at her father. She eats her food and later leaves her parent’s home with lunch plates.

CHAPTER

6

JAVON

Javon arrives at Ashanti’s home. He brings wine and tequila with him. Ashanti meets him at the door. She opens the door and gives him a kiss. They walk into the kitchen. She has cooked baked chicken, asparagus, red potatoes, and rolls.

“I’m sorry I did not get home in time to cook for you. But I promise next time.”

“No worries baby. I know you have clients who require much of your time.”

“Let me see what you have here. Somebody loves me. It smells wonderful in here. What did you cook? I am ready to eat.”

Ashanti smiles and says, “Just a little something I whipped up. How was your day?”

“It was cool. I had a doctor’s appointment?”

“Is everything okay?”

“I’m good. Nothing to worry about.”

“I just want to make sure nothing is wrong with you that might affect your health or mine.”

“I’m good and so are you. No diseases here.”

“Just checking.”

They eat dinner while sipping on wine and tequila. Javon clears the table and places the dishes in the dishwasher.

“Thank you, baby. You are so sweet. I am so glad that you are a part of my life.”

“No problem, baby. I got you always. I am here tonight to listen and give you whatever you want. I know you had a rough day baby.”

“I needed to hear that baby. I just need you to hold me and make love to me, so I can forget about today.”

Javon picks Ashanti up and they go into her bedroom. He kisses her neck and down her spine. He removes her clothes and his. She groans as he reaches his hands between her legs. She pulls out his penis and gives him oral sex. Javon becomes aroused.

Javon grabs her legs and place them over his shoulders as he orally pleases her.

He licks her clitoris with his long tongue.

Ashanti screams as she watches the motion of his tongue inside her vagina. She is enjoying his body as she has orgasms. Her legs are shaking but Javon will not stop until he hears Ashanti scream his name.

“Javon, take it! Yes, baby. I love your tongue.”

Javon places his penis inside of Ashanti making deep strokes. He sucks her breast and kisses her as he penetrates her vagina with his fingers.

Her body feels so good to him that he almost comes inside of her. He immediately pulls out as he realizes he does not have on a condom.

“Why did you stop? I know you were feeling me.”

“Baby. I did not want to get you pregnant. We both were drinking and got caught up into the love making that I forgot to put on a condom.”

“Really! Okay. You are right. I have some condoms in the nightstand.”

Javon looks in the nightstand but no condoms.

“No condoms baby. I can go out and get some.”

“No baby. I am good. I just wanted you to feel as good as you made me feel.”

“I am okay. You always make me feel good baby.”

“Baby. Just hold me in your arms. I just want to feel your body next to mine.”

Javon hugs Ashanti’s body and they fall asleep.

CHAPTER

7

CAROL & TODD

Todd is a police chief and is married to Carol, a homemaker. They reside in Duluth, Georgia. They have one daughter, Michelle Rain. She is a student at Tennessee State University. She is majoring in biology to become a cardiologist.

Chief Todd Jones is presenting awards and promotions at the Police Chief Conference. Todd stands up and starts to speak at the podium to his colleagues.

“We are gathered here tonight to express our appreciation for our top officials by honoring them for their challenging work and dedication throughout the years. I am not going to keep you for long. But I want to talk to you about my friend and partner of twenty years, Major John Mason.”

The audience clamps.

“I met John in our academy class. He was this tall, smart, and funny looking guy. Everyone gravitated towards him because he would help us study. He was good with memorizing our signals and codes. He also made sure we were on point with our uniforms.”

John laughs with the other officers.

“But my greatest moment spent with him was when he protected us while a bank robber attempted to grab my gun. He grabbed the suspect before he fired off a shot at me. I could have been gone and never would have seen my baby girl be born. So, I will always love you man.”

John raises his fist and salutes Chief Todd.

“Enough with the mushy talk. John will you please stand and accept this honorary promotion of Deputy Chief of Police along with this award plaque and certificate for your service?”

John stands and walks across the stage. He accepts his awards after shaking Police Chief Todd Jones hand.

The audience clamps their hands.

“Thank you. I am not going to be long winded. But I would not want another boss to work for other than Chief. He has always had his officers back. He will protect them by any means. He is also a great father and husband. I hope I can be the man he is someday. Thank you.”

SPORTS BAR

Chief Todd, Travis, John, Henry, and other officers celebrate new promotions at Switzer K Sports Bar in Atlanta.

“Hey John. How does it feel to be Deputy Chief?”

“Good. Now Travis, maybe I can get you to do some work.”

“Whatever? Negro, please. I work smart and safe. I am not trying to die. I’ll catch the criminals another day.”

Chief Todd staggers over to John, Travis, and Henry. He begins to speak.

“Hey guys. Why aren’t you turning up? You just got promotions and a higher pay. Travis, you can now get that sports car you have been showing me.”

John said, “Chief, you might want to slow down with the tequila.”

“I’m not going to drive. I got this chic who will pick me up anytime I call. She loves me baby. She is a little stripper. We have been kicking it for about three years. No strings attached.”

“That is what I’m talking about. We should go to the strip club.”

“That sounds good, but I promised Mary I would hang with her tonight after having a few drinks at the bar.”

“Travis said, “Are you talking about the girl you have been playing for five years? Man, will you stop giving her false hopes of marriage?”

Chief said, “I see why John keeps her. She is fine and a doctor. She does not put any pressure on him. She has her own place and money. That is what you want. A side chic without the problems that marriage brings.”

“She is more than a side chic. I am just not ready yet. But I love her. My mom, sister, and grandmother love her too. And I like the fact that she has no children. So, no baby daddy mess.”

Chief said, “I feel you. Love along with sex be having us stay in these outside relationships.”

Chief drops his drink and stumbles on a server.

“I think you have had too many drinks for tonight.”

“I’m good. Sorry pretty lady. Bring me another round of drinks.”

Travis said, “Chief. I know that is right. Let us drink and celebrate. We only live once. Baby. Bring me an order of chicken wings. Dam John! You are ruining my buzz.”

Henry said, “Deputy John. You are already giving out orders. The Deputy Chief position done already gone to his head.”

“You’re right Henry. I better watch out for John. He might be trying to take my job next.”

“You both are crazy. Just drink your tequila. I will have another too.

They all laugh as they finish their drinks. Lala shows up at the bar and grabs Chief Todd. John helps her walk him to her car. John observes a small toddler boy sitting in the back seat of Lala’s car. The boy looks exactly like Chief Todd. Lala drives off with the chief.

Both Henry, Travis, and John leave the bar around 1:00 AM.

ABUSE

Chief Todd leaves his girlfriend’s home around 5 AM. He drives home and walks upstairs to his bedroom. Carol is sitting upstairs in bed and watching tv. He walks over to kiss her. Bur she pushes him away.

“Who were you with? Were you with some prostitute?”

“I have no time for your foolishness this morning. There is no other woman but you.”

“Do you think I am stupid? You cannot come home one night without having sex with another woman! I want a divorce.”

Chief grabs Carol’s arm and shakes her.

“Let me go!”

“You will never divorce me. I have given you and Michelle Rain everything. You do not have anything without me! I own this house, the cars, the credit cards, bank accounts, and everything you wear. So, if you try to leave, I will.”

Chief pauses and says, “I am not doing this with you. You know what is good for you.”

“What are you going to do to me? I cannot understand why you treat me the way you do. My father told me not to marry you. But I disobeyed him because I was a fool in love. But dad was right about you.

Chief raises his hand and slaps Carol. Then, he pulls her hair and grabs her arms.

“Fuck your dad! He did not take care of you. He was gone. How the hell does he think he can tell me what to do in my own home?”

“Let me go!”

Chief throws Carol to the floor and rips off her gown. He forces himself on Carol and rapes her. He falls asleep on her body.

About ten minutes later, she moves him off her body and goes into the bathroom crying. She takes a shower. After she is out of the shower, she notices bruises on her face, arms, and wrist. She leaves home and goes to the local store to purchase makeup to cover up her bruises.

GROCERY STORE

Deputy Chief John sees Carol at the local store. He walks over to her and taps her on the shoulder. She turns around and says, “Hi John. How are you doing? How is your son?”

“Everybody is fine.”

“Congratulations on your promotion!”

“Thank you. Chief looks out for his people.”

John pauses as he notices a bruise on Carol’s face.

“Did Chief do that to you?”

“Do what?”

“You know what? Carol, you have bruises on your face. When did this occur?”

“When he got home this morning. I started the argument over him being out late. He grabbed me. But I am okay. You know Todd. He drinks and gets out of control sometimes. But he takes care of his family.”

“Yes. But he should not be putting his hand on you. Would you like to get coffee? I have time to talk or just listen. I do not pick up Jr., until 5 PM today?”

“You know I have not heard those words in such a long time. I do not know how it feels to be listened too.”

“Well. I am attentive today. Just follow me to the Café 7 around the corner. They have great lunch.”

“Alright. Let me check out and I will follow you.”

“Cool. I will see you in the parking lot.”

They both leave the parking lot separately and drive to Café 7.

Three hours later, Carol drives home. She parks the car. She walks into her home. She sees Todd sitting at the kitchen table. Todd is drinking scotch.

“Hey baby.”

Chief stands up and says, “Where have you been? I woke up with nothing to eat.”

He grabs Carol by her left arm.”

Carol is afraid of Chief Todd, so she cries and stutters.

“Baby. I have your lunch in the refrigerator. It just needs to be heated up.”

Chief releases Carol’s arm and says, “Well. Do not just stand there. Warm it up for me!”

Chief walks away into the living room and watches television.

Carol warms up his food and brings it to him.

“Give me a beer with this and come sit with me.”

Carol goes back into the kitchen and brings Todd a beer.

“Here is your beer. I am tired. I need to pack for our visit with Michelle on Saturday.”

“Is it this Saturday?”

“Yes, Todd. Did you clear your calendar?”

“This kid’s birthday party is Saturday. But I will make it. I will go spend two hours with the kids and drive to Tennessee afterwards. You can go ahead and do that girl stuff with Michelle. I will meet you later.”

Carol walks away and goes upstairs to her bedroom.

CAFETERIA

Friday morning, Charlie, Chief Todd, Travis, and Tony are sitting in the break room having lunch.

Henry walks in and speaks to everyone.

“Hey what’s up? You all mind if I join you?”

Chief said, “Sit down man.”

Henry sits down but Charlie, Travis, and Tony stand up.

“Why are you fellows leaving?” Is it Henry’s breath?”

“No chief. We just have reports to complete. We will get up with you later.”

Tony, Travis, and Charlie walk away carrying their trays to the trash can.

“What’s going on Henry?”

“Chief. I do not like to mess in folk business, but yesterday I saw your wife and John leave the grocery store together.”

“And what’s your point?”

“Well. She followed him to a coffee shop about a mile up the road from the store. They looked cozy together. They were there for about two hours.”

“Are you sure it was Carol?”

“I’d put my life on it. I thought you ought to know. You know women be cheating right under your nose and you may not be aware of it.”

“Yeah. They do. Thanks for letting me know.”

“I got your back.”

Chief stands up and walks to his office. He tells his secretary to call John into his office.

“Laura, get John in my office ASAP.”

“Yes sir.”

Laura calls John on the phone.

Meanwhile, Todd waits in his office while squeezing a ball waiting on John. Five minutes later, John walks into his office.”

“You need me Chief.”

“Close the door and have a seat, John.”

“Sounds serious.”

“I’ve known you for over twenty years and you have been a trustworthy friend. That is why I made you Deputy Chief. Now any top-ranking officer can be demoted at any time.”

“Chief. What is going on? Was a complaint made against me? What has made you talk to me this way? Did I do something to you?”

“John, I am going to ask you some questions. If you answer them correctly. You will be fine.”

“This is crazy. What do you want to know?”

“John, were you at the supermarket yesterday?”

“Yes. I was there picking up some items.”

“Did you see my wife?’

“Yes. I saw her.”

“Did you leave the store and go to the coffee shop with her?”

“Yes. We were just talking.”

“How long were you there?”

“I really do not know. How did you know we were at the coffee shop? Were you following us?”

“No, but I have eyes everywhere. Let me tell you something John. Are you thinking about having sex with my wife? If so, get it out of your mind. I will demote your ass so fast that you will not know what hit you.”

“Is this a threat you are making towards me?”

“You better believe it.”

“Well. You cannot threaten me. You can get away with walking all over your wife by beating her. But I am not afraid of you. I wonder what the media would say about the chief of police abusing his own wife and having a substance abuse problem. I will continue to see Carol until she leaves you.”

John walks out Todd’s office. He walks outside and calls Carol. She does not answer the phone because she is in the shower. Chief also calls Carol but no answer. Chief tells Laura he is about to leave the office.

“Okay. Will you be gone for the remainder of the day?”

“I will probably stay in the field working.”

“Alright Chief.”

Chief walks out his office. He takes the elevator to the parking deck and drives home.

He arrives homes, gets out the car, and unlocks his front door. He walks throughout the home as he yells out Carol’s name.

“Carol. Carol! Where are you?”

Carol steps out the shower and places her robe on. She walks outside the bathroom over to the bedroom balcony.

Chief walks over to the bedroom.

“Hi baby. You are home early today.”

Chief raises his right hand and slaps Carol. Then, he punches her in the face and drags her into their bedroom while yelling at her.

“You crazy heifer! I know about you and John having lunch yesterday. You lied to me. Are you sleeping him?”

“Let me go! Get away from me. We just had coffee. Nothing happened. He is a friend.”

“You do not need any friends. I am the only man you need to be talking too. Now, I’ve got to teach you not to lie to me.”

Chief rips off his pants and grabs Carol by the neck. Carol scratches him in the face and he slaps her. She knees him in the groin area. He falls to his knees. He tries to grab her legs, as she runs downstairs, and locks herself in the bathroom.

He slowly stands up and walks downstairs. He hears Carol crying in the bathroom. He shakes the doorknob and yells at her.

“Open this got dam door!

“Leave me alone. Just leave!”

“You have to come out at some time. And when you do, I am going to kill you. I have all day to wait on you.”

Five minutes later, an elderly man knocks on the front door. Todd walks over to the door and opens it.

“Hey Chief. I am sorry to disturb you, but I cannot get my car started. And my wife is bugging me about going to the store. Can you help me out? It maybe my battery or the alternator.”

Chief walks outside with Mr. Realms over to his car. He checks under the hood and tells him to crank it up. Mr. Realms tries to crank it, but nothing happens.

“Maybe I need a battery.”

“Maybe. But try cranking it again after pressing the accelerator first.”

Mr. Realms cranks it again and nothing happens.

Chief walks over to his yard and pulls his car over in front of Mr. Realm’s car to give it a boost. He connects the cables and has Mr. Realms to crank up his car again. The car slightly cranks up for a little while but then it cuts off.

“It’s your battery. Looks like you need a new battery. How long have you had this battery in the car?”

“Roughly about six years now. Can you take me to get a new battery?”

“Yeah. You got your wallet?”

“Let me run into the house to get it. I surely do appreciate you. They do not make police officers like you anymore. We need more officers like you.”

Mr. Realms runs into his home and grabs his wallet. He tells his wife he is going to the auto shop to purchase a battery. He walks outside his home and gets into the car with Chief Todd.

Carol hears the car pull out her neighbor’s driveway. She looks out the window and sees Chief and Mr. Realms drive away. She slowly unlocks the door and rushes upstairs. She puts on jeans, a tee shirt, and tennis shoes.

Then, she grabs her purse, her car keys, and cash out of the safe. She calls John on her cell phone and leaves him a message to meet her at the Hampton Inn on Hwy 14. An hour later, John checks his messages and goes to meet Carol.

John observes Carol sitting in the parking lot. He hunks his horn and Carol gets out of her car. She walks over to his vehicle and opens the door. John notices she has tears coming from her eyes.

“I tried to call you back, but your phone went to voicemail. What happened this time?”

“He accused me of wanting to sleep with you. It started with an argument over you and I eating at the coffee shop yesterday.”

“He was tripping on me today. Threatening me about demoting me. He was acting strange. He talked about me wanting you. Carol, you really need to leave him.”

“I know but he is the bread winner. I do not want to be alone. I have not used my degree in years. And I probably cannot get a job.”

“He may kill you if you do not leave him. I have a lot of domestic violence cases where men and woman are afraid to leave because of no stability, lack of education, lack of job skills, religious wedding vows, children, and because they feel they love their spouse or mate.”

“I know John, but I have nowhere to go to.”

“There are shelters for battered women. I have a sister you could live with until you get on your feet.”

John sees the bruises on Carol’s face, neck, and arms.

“How could he do this to you? You are the mother of his child. You cook, clean, support him, and you do so much for the community. He does not know what he has. A beautiful queen. I would never do that to you or any woman.”

“I know. That is why I am going to file for divorce. But I need photos of the abuse and a witness because the courts may not believe me, since he is the chief of police.”

“You need to file a police report first. Then, go to the hospital and have them take photos of you. You may also need to see a therapist for trauma.”

John calls an officer to meet him at the parking lot of North Phipps Plaza.

John has the officer complete a police report of aggravated battery assault. The officer also takes photos of the injuries he observed on Carol’s face, neck, arms, legs, and wrist.

Officer Jamison receives a case number from dispatch and gives it to Carol.

Later, she goes to Gwinnett Medical Center for an examination.

Dr. Williams does a supplemental police report and takes photos of

her injuries and documents her findings.

CHAPTER

8

BLAKE

Blake and Bilan come to see me every Wednesday. They discuss with me their prearranged marriage life. Both are doctors from Kenya and India. Blake is a dentist, and Bilan is a neurologist. Their marriage is not like the typical American culture. Where we can choose our spouses.

Instead, their parents decided who and when they would marry, based on beliefs, income, and continued wealth. Both their fathers made an agreement over the years that Blake and Bilan would be together. This was quite the set-up couple. They were friends as children and now forced to marry and be fruitful.

Both are attractive and care for one another. They built a friendship over the years. Their parents had them communicate with each other during the summer but no sex. Sex occurred after they were officially married. 

SESSION 4

“I never really thought about being with another man until I was nine or ten years old. My parents sent me off to boarding school with all boys. My dad wanted me to concentrate on sciences because the men in our home are doctors. You could not be a blue- collar worker. And you could not marry a woman of low socioeconomic status.”

Blake starts to tear up in the session.

“Go on Blake. You are doing well with expressing your feelings. Let your words speak and breathe slowly as you talk it out.”

“Sometimes, I become too overwhelmed with my life. I apologize, Dr. Basile.”

“No problem. Express your inner thoughts. Take your time.”

“I remember we had a friend of my dad whose son was crying after he was hit in the eye with a ball. I wiped tears from his eyes and hugged him. I told him not to cry. My dad grabbed me away from Shuri and scolded me with words.”

Blake takes a break and rotates his head while looking up at the ceiling in Dr. Basile’s office.

Dad said, “No stop it! Let him grow up. He is fine. Girls cry and not young men.”

“I could not say anything. I was a child who never disrespected his parent’s instructions. Later, I realized that I had to live my truth. I knew that I had feminine ways, but I had to hide it from my parents. I knew I could not hug a man or kiss dad in public. It would not go well with dad having a gay or a confused son.”

Bilan hugs Blake as he tears up more.

“It’s okay Baby. Let it out.”

“It’s like I’m still a kid talking about it. When I was in college, I started having these crazy attractions towards men. It was like I connected to them in a loving and spiritual manner. I did not understand it, but it felt strange but good.”

Javon comes into the session after hearing Blake on zoom in another room at the office. He walks in Dr. Basile’s office.

“I know what you mean, Blake. I have it with you and Ashanti. It is complicated. I care about both of you and have a different bonding relationship experience.”

“Bilan, how does it make you feel when Blake tells you that he has same sexual attraction towards men? Be very honest. This is the only way you will know if you are able to accept this open marriage.”

“I suspected that he may have been gay or was sexually fluid when we were younger because he was extremely sensitive. He was always hanging with the guys. I never really saw females in his life. When, I asked him about it, he did not give me a straight answer. He would always say that he had male friends, and they helped him make good decisions with his life choices. They made him improve his self-image which made him feel good about himself.”

“But how do you feel about his attraction to Javon and other men?”

“I want him to love me the same. I want him to only be attracted to me, but I know that he can only be himself.”

“Have either of you ever thought about getting a divorce?”

“I cannot get a divorce. My family would be devastated. Our marriage is for life. I will not judge him for whom he loves. He will stop one day. My mother told me that men in India and Kenya have multiple wives and mistresses. She said that just because he cheats does not mean he does not love you. It just means he needs to love more than one person.”

“I do not want a failed marriage. I know it is hard for her. I never meant to hurt her. Divorcing her would mean that she has not fulfilled me in so many ways. Besides, my family expects me to have children.”

“Javon, do you think you contributed to Blake’s open marriage involvement? Do you feel that you caused some of Bilan’s pain?”

“I never meant to hurt anyone. We had a strong attraction towards each other. I could not help that my body gravitated to Blake’s. He is handsome, smart, witty, and a doctor. We are just men that like both sexes. I cannot explain it. But I do not want any attachments. I love the freedom of being able to spend time with whomever I am attracted too.”

“Bilan, how does that make you feel when Javon speaks about his attraction and feelings for Blake?”

“Well. I want my husband for me, but I cannot stop whom he sleeps with. I know my husband is everything that Javon said he is. He is funny, he is highly intelligent, and he is quite handsome. I do not know how he and Javon would work out if he does not want children. Because Blake and I want children.”

“I would not interfere with their desire to have children. I would respect boundaries when it came to their children. I will not be around their children. I just want to enjoy quality time with Blake. I am not looking for a full commitment with anyone right now.”

“Blake, how does it make you feel that Javon only wants quality time with you? He does not want to be in a full time committed relationship with anyone, and he does not want children.”

“It feels weird because I thought we were close. And I wanted a commitment from him. I was hoping that he and I would only sleep with each other as far as men were concerned. I can accept that he still sleeps with women but not with other men. I do not want that to happen. I would be hurt by him sleeping with other men because of our, formed connection.”

“This is good. Everyone is getting to the root of the matter. Can you survive a marriage with multiple doors open within the relationship? Are you able to accept each person’s beliefs in this relationship? Are you willing to Change Love Lanes to be happy?”

“I did not know you expected me to only sleep with you as far as men were concerned. I do not want to lose you over another man, but I know that with me, it is all about attraction. I do not see myself in a one-man relationship. But when I am with you, I am always into you mentally, spiritually, and sexually.”

“Bilan. Are you okay with Blake sleeping with Javon? Although, you would be exposed to multiple sexual partners if Blake continues to have a sexual relationship with Javon?”

“No. I am not. It is much safer if I knew Javon was only with one man and not, other men. I want to know if Javon is sleeping with multiple women as well. I know he mentioned only one woman he was intimate within our sessions.”

“Javon, do you want to talk about your sexual partners?”

“I only have been sleeping with one woman. We use protection because I do not want kids. I also use protection with men that I sleep with. I do not have any diseases.”

“Does your lady friend know you are sleeping with men?”

“We have a steady relationship. We are off and on. So, we are good right now?”

“Blake, will you continue your relationship with Javon knowing he will be with other men sexually?”

“I don’t think so. We can be friends only. I do not want to catch any diseases and give them to my wife.”

“Bilan. Will you accept that Blake may continue to sleep with Javon? I asked this question because Blake is not completely sure he will stop seeing Javon while he dates other men. Will you put your health at risk knowing Javon sleeps with several men?”

“No. I will not accept it. I will just have to get pregnant another way. It’s complicated enough for me knowing he is sleeping with my man.”

“I understand how you both feel. But I had to be honest with myself. I did not ask for this sexual attraction. I got it from God. It will not go away. I love both sexes at various times. I have yet to be in a monogamous relationship ever.”

“Well. We have a breakthrough. You know what each other will accept and not accept in your relationships. Now it is decision time. You will write down your decision on paper. You will read out whether, you will remain in an open relationship or not.”

Dr. Basile hands out a folder with a contract form attached. It has questions on it for Blake, Bilan, and Javon to fill out.

“Blake, what is your decision?”

“I want to work it out with my wife. Javon, I cannot see you while you are with other men. I’m sorry.”

“I will stay with my husband. I accept his decision. I am glad we are working it out in a one-on-one relationship. If he decides to see men again, we will work through it. I only want this agreement to state he will only sleep with one man and that he always uses protection.”

“I understand you both had to make the decision together. I care for you Blake and we will always have a connection. I just know I cannot commit to one person. Our season is over.

The session is over and Javon hugs Blake and says “Good-Bye.”

Dr. Basile’s secretary knocks on the door and advises her that her next appointment couple has arrived.

CHAPTER

9

TANYA & LARRY

Tanya is married to Larry, a truck driver. They are in my office for counseling sessions related to sex and intimacy. She suspects that Larry is cheating on her with another woman. He feels that she is insecure that he is a dancer at night. He also thinks that she suspects that he has slept with a co-worker on his day job with the City Waste Department. All which he denies.

“How is everyone doing today?”

Tanya and Larry reply, “We are good. How are you doing, Dr. Basile?”

“I’m great! Thanks for asking. Did you complete the exercises? Did you write your feelings down after each exercise? Did you record yourselves for the trust exercises?”

Both Tanya and Larry respond, “Yes.”

“Okay. Let us begin with exercise one. Larry did you leave your phone out in the open when you went to the store with your password unlocked?”

“I sure did. And I know she checked it because I know my wife.”

“How do you know she checked it? Did she say, she touched your phone?”

“No. But she is a lawyer. They scoop and look at everything. I bet she turned off the camera while she scrolled through my phone. But I am not doing anything, so I am good. I have nothing to hide.”

“Tanya, did you practice the expression of intimacy exercises with Larry? Did you explore sexual ideas to bring you closer to Larry? Have you been able to have sex with Larry and feel secure with him in bed?”

“Yes. I am getting closer to Larry but sometimes he says things in the bedroom like he is speaking to a “ghetto” type of woman?”

“What type of things does he say to you? And how does it make you feel?

“Things like “Give me that pussy! Take it like a good bitch woman! I am not a female dog. This is what causes me to stop the sex. It makes me feel like his exes may have allowed him to talk to them that way. Maybe this is what men do when they work in the entertainment world of strippers and dancers.”

“Have you told him this language makes you feel uncomfortable? Did you explain to him when he speaks in this manner, it makes you think that he spoke to his exes in the same manner while being intimate with them?”

“He knows that I shut down when he starts to speak in bed. I told him to stop.”

“But did you tell Larry how you felt about him? Did you explain to Larry why you stopped having sex? Did you explain how the explicit words made you feel like he was talking to one of his exes in bed?”

“No. But any man married should know that those words degrade women.”

“Okay. I see. I am hearing that you felt that he should know pussy and bitch words are offensive to you. Although, the words may be offensive to you, I must point out to you that pussy and bitch, are words that can stimulate an erection for men and an orgasm for women. Seductive dirty language is an expression of role playing. It adds spice to many couple’s relationships.”

“I do not have a problem with role playing as long as it is tasteful.”

“Do you still feel he is possibly cheating on you?”

“Honestly. Something is up because money has come up missing out of our account. He has been transferring $300 each month to a separate account. He says he is helping his sister out with her bills since she lost her job. But I just found out she has been working for two months at a warehouse.”

“Larry, are you having an affair? Are you still helping your sister out? Does your sister work now?’

“No Mam. The only time I slept with another woman was about six and half years ago. We had separated for about two months. She had issues with me working late nights as a dancer. So, I have never cheated on her. Yes. I still help my sister out.”

“So, when is it going to stop. Your sister has a husband to help her out.”

“I do not know. It is my money and my sister. Family is supposed to help each other out. Do you want to separate our joint account? I can just have my work payroll checks deposited into my own personal checking account.”

“I did not say you had to remove the money from our account. I am just concerned why your sister still receives money from you. We need that money for our own home.”

“Good. You are both expressing your thoughts and feelings. Let us focus on the love and intimacy. Tanya, the money represents security for you in the account. Questioning him about the account is a form of control because it is in a joint account. You may be focused on it because you feel he may be giving it to another woman since his sister is working and has a spouse working.”

“Yes. I think so too. She monitors the money in our joint account. I pay the mortgage and upkeep the lawn services. When she observes more money taken out before I get paid. She feels I maybe mismanaging my money.”

“Yes. I monitor our joint account, so I am not on the streets. I must make sure he has enough money in our account to pay our mortgage.”

“Have I ever been late with mortgage money before?”

“Okay let us focus on finance later, but it is good you are talking it out. Money finances has been an issue with clients of mine. They use it as a way of withholding sex as well. Tanya, did you ever argue with Larry and use it in another way to prevent intimacy with him?”

“No. We argue over different things. Sometimes, we argue over dinner not made or me working late hours at the firm or him being a dancer. I hold back sex because of the way he talks to me in bed.”

“Good. Because a person will cheat or make bad decisions in a relationship whether you have overflow of money in your account or not.”

“I understand.”

Tanya, this is a trust issue which causes stress on you wanting intimacy with Larry. As far as the dirty language, Larry, you will need to find other words to use to appease Tanya in bed. Larry, you also may want to set up a time and date where you advise your sister that you can no longer help her out with bills. Maybe give her a few more weeks of help.”

“I can do that.”

“Tanya, how are you dealing with him stripping at night?”

“I am coping better with it because I know he is at his job. He comes home afterwards. He only dances twice a week now.”

“Larry. Will you quit your job anytime soon as a dancer? Since it has caused some stress on your marriage.”

“Maybe in a year or two. I am paying off my debt. I do not want to ask my wife for money. Dancing gives me extra income for leisure things. Tanya benefits also from me dancing.”

“How does that make you feel Tanya? Larry is going to stop dancing in a year or two. He is going to set a time to stop giving his sister money. And he will find other words to express himself while being intimate in bed with you.”

“It sounds good. We will see. Actions speak louder than words.”

“I’ll take that answer as progress. Now I have reviewed the video of the phones left for three days in a specific area of your home. Tanya, you only picked it up once on the second day and scrolled through it. Larry, you only picked up her phone on the third day but did not scroll and look in it.”

“I knew she had picked it up and looked in it. So, what did you find? Nothing I bet.”

“We both picked our phones up. I did not find anything?”

“Now that we have got things aired out. I want you to try to be intimate twice a week. I want you to work on your words Larry while in bed. And Tanya, I want you to trust Larry and stop monitoring your account. I will see you next Thursday. Now hug each other.”

Both hug each other and leave Dr. Basile’s office.

CHAPTER

10

KAREN

Karen is married to Deon. They have three children, Kathy age 12, Brandon age 14, and Deon Jr, 17 years old. She is a producer at a television station, and she is battling cancer. She had Multiple Myeloma Cancer in 2018. Her children have endured much while living with their parents.

Brandon had a case of PTSD after seeing his father murder a man in self- defense when a man tried to carjack Deon. He has been in counseling since he was twelve. Students had bullied Kathy in school. Girls jumped her and cut her face with a blade. She had to have surgery and had forty stitches on her face. She has been in counseling for over a year but is doing better.

Deon Jr is angry at his dad for the affairs he has been having since he was 11 years old. He first caught his father with another woman in the guest room while his mom was at work. During basketball games, his father brings his women friends to the games.

Deon has seen him kissing them when he drops them off at their home. He has not told his mother but suspects she knows about the affairs.

Karen, my friend of twenty years just told me she has cancer and a year to live. It was a blow to my head because she has always been healthy. But one day we met up and just started talking about life. She began talking about her relationship with Deon and how he used to be so considerate and loving.

I told her that I did not know why she married Deon. He was always flirting with other women back in the day. He was not that cute to me, and her kids got their good looks from her. But I supported her back then because she loved the joker. I would have rather she married Steven. He was nice and had an excellent job.

But anyway, she told me about her cancer. Karen stated, “I found out a few years ago, when I became dizzy at work. I thought it may have been because I had not eaten enough. Then, my back started to hurt, and I had a stiff neck. I went to my doctor, and he did exams on me but found nothing. He gave me medication for the pain. But the pain got worst. I went to another facility for an examination. Emory found a large mass on my spine. They scheduled me to have surgery.”

She talked about being in the hospital after surgery and going to chemotherapy. She had to go out on short- and long-term disability. Her doctors asked her to get family members to do a blood test to see if they could be a donor. She told Deon and her family about donating blood. But only one family member gave blood donations. It was her cousin, Gabreille.

I could not believe that her husband and children never donated blood to her. She had four siblings and a mother living but none of them gave blood. I did not understand this type of behavior within a family.

Unless, she was a bad person to them, or they were jealous of her, or they had a disease, or they were just heartless. I thought of anything that would prevent me from saving the life of my sister or brother. I could not think of anything.

Even if they had done something to me in the past. I would forgive them. But she took off work for a year. She was in the hospital for about a year receiving chemotherapy. Her employer paid her short-and long-term term disability checks to pay her bills.

A year later, she got out the hospital and was in remission. She was able to spend time with her children, but Deon was not around much. Her siblings came around a little bit. She went back to work in about a month for two days but later got sick at work.

She left work and went back home to rest. She could not walk and was in pain, so she called an ambulance. The ambulance came and picked her up. They transported her to Emory Hospital. While at the hospital, someone broke into her home and stole her car. Deon and the children were away at a friend’s home.

She could not contact him until the next day. She talked about she knew Deon was cheating on her and she was going to leave him and get a divorce.

I asked, “Are you sure you want a divorce?”

She said, “Yes. The marriage has been over for years. I only stayed for the kids.”

I said, “Do you have a will in case anything happens to you?”

She said, “No. I have to get one. I have been focusing on getting better.”

About a month later, she called me crying stating, “My doctor said, “It’s getting worse.”

I asked, “Have you tried to get a second opinion? Maybe try the Cancer Treatment Center or herbs therapy?”

She said, “I asked my sister, and I am waiting for her to take me. I am in and out of hospice when my blood platelets drop.”

Her sister took her to the Cancer Treatment Center, and they told her to continue treatment at Emory. They could not do anymore for her than what her Emory oncologists were doing for her.

Karen knew her time was running out if she did not get a donor. We would talk on the phone when she came home from hospice. While in hospice, when she got sick, they had to rush her back to the hospital.

Four months later, she succumbed to her disease. The funeral service was beautiful, but I knew her family was in pain. Her children were crying but Deon acted like his normal self. He had his lover at the funeral. A family member expressed that Deon Jr. did not want to live with him and decided to go stay with his aunt.

Three months later, Deon moved Mary in with him and his children. He sold the other two homes that Karen owned. He bought his girlfriend a new Mercedes Benz and him a BMW. He also bought him a motorcycle and took all the 401K money and put it in stocks.

I found out through a mutual friend that Deon and Mary were expecting a baby boy in August. Deon had been cheating in his marriage with Karen all along and she always suspected it. I know this must have been hard on his children and Karen’s mother.

Most men will wait awhile before they bring another woman to live in the home of a deceased spouse and their children. But Deon did not care. He functioned as if Karen had been dead for years. Mary even wanted the kids to call her mom.

Brandon started to rebel against his father. He also asked to live with his aunt because he would argue with his dad quite often. He even tried to fight Deon. He would not accept Mary as his mother, and he let her know he only had one mother.

DOWN FALL

One day while Deon and Mary were driving to a doctor’s appointment, a truck rear ended them in the back. Deon ejected from the window and Mary was unconscious. She lost the baby. Deon was in a coma with a broken spine and neck.

Deon remained in a coma for six months and later died. Karen’s mother had insurance policy papers on him, Karen, and the children. The agreement occurred after Karen and Deon had their first child, Deon Jr. They agreed to have Katherine take out the policy on them in case something happened to them. Deon Jr would not have to worry about living and college expenses.

The policy was a million-dollar policy and it doubled if accidental death. Law enforcement ruled it as a fatal accident death. The driver of the trucking company caused the accident. They charged him with driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI).

Months after the accident, the hospital discharged Mary. She found out later that she lost her job. The reason for her termination was for unauthorized illegal wire transfers made to top city officials. She had to leave Karen’s home because she was not married to Deon. The Mercedes Benz dealership repossessed her vehicle due to non-payment of monthly notes. Deon only paid car notes for six months.

Mary moved back in with her ex-husband. She had left Carl for Deon because he could not keep a job and because he used to sell drugs. She had no money and place to go except for with Carl. She only disclosed problems of fraud and illegal wire transfers with the city government to Carl.

She was out on a bond for $250,000 and had to remain in the country. Carl had signed her out of jail on bond.

A month later, Carl and Mary went to jail. The arrest occurred after police received a tip from informants. Police found out that Carl was running a business in Decatur where he was prostituting girls and selling drugs to minors.

The police executed a warrant on them. During the arrest, police found drugs in the home along with child pornography on computers.

Carl and Mary remain in jail and are awaiting trial.

REAP

I often think about karma and how it will get you immediate or over a period- of- time. Deon had hurt Karen and his children. He had stolen from Karen and their children. He sold Karen’s family property without consulting with her mother. He had an accident and died. He did not even get a chance to enjoy the money or Mary. And he lost a son at birth with Mary. He lost his relationship with his children.

Mary had cheated with a married man and moved in with him after his wife died of Cancer. She had been in an accident and nearly died. She had lost her baby. The dealership took her vehicle. She had committed fraud and stole from the city. She moved back with her ex-husband, a convicted drug dealer. The police charged her with fraud, drug possession and child pornography.

I am sure she wished she had died from the car accident with Deon.

They really reaped what they sowed.

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

Galatians 6-7-8 ESV

I may not see my friend, Karen on earth, but I know one day we will meet again. I hold on to these scriptures when I feel the pain of not knowing when I will see a loved one again.

AND dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.

-Ecclesiastes 12:7 ESV

“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.”

-Thessalonians 4:14 ESV

CHAPTER

11

KEITH

Keith is the cousin of Javon. He graduated from Clark Atlanta University and works as a Consultant Agent for Sports Medicine clients. He has collaborated with athletes from California, New York, and Florida. His main job is finding therapist to help injured clients with their health. He also helps them receive contracts for continued income.

Javon knocks on the door at Keith’s apartment. He hears loud screaming noises. He knocks three times and enters the home with his spare key. He walks into the home and grabs a suit out the closet and a tie. While turning to walk outside the closet, Debbie is naked and screaming as Keith has her in an upside down awkward sexual position with her head to the floor.

Javon opens his mouth and says, “Sorry man. My bad.” He covers his eyes as Debbie stops Keith and closes the bedroom door. Keith rushes to the bathroom and grabs his robe to cover himself as Debbie remains in the bedroom embarrassed.

“Man, I just came by to borrow a suit for a meeting. I thought you were out of town.”

“Nah I leave Wednesday. I had to stay for my baby’s party and spend some time with her and my son.”

“Okay. But who is this one? I thought you and Siena were working things out.”

“That’s D. Siena and I are off and on. She comes with drama and is always criticizing me. She accuses me of not wanting to commit and marry her. You know I am not ready for marriage. I am only twenty-nine years old. She and I will always be connected because of Kanyon.”

“I know man. She was acting a fool last time you went to the club for Melvin’s bachelor party. I think she had you locked out for two days. Then, she changed the locks to your apartment. She crazy but sexy as hell. She has money and an excellent job. She makes six figures in salary, as a Director of Nursing.”

“Sometimes, the smart ones be crazy once you give them some good dick. Her pussy may be good, but it is not worth me going to jail and losing my job over.”

“But where did you meet this one in your bedroom?

“I met D at a friend of mines home. My homeboy had a party at his place. And she was looking sexy in this pink dress. I told him to introduce her to me and he did. We have been kicking it for about two months.”

“You all were doing the thing. You were working her upside down. I got to learn that trick. Looks like she was losing her breath. She looks like she is a freak in bed. You might mess around with her and fall in love with her tricks.”

“She is good in bed. She said her boyfriend was not giving it to her, so she stepped out to meet her needs. She gives good brain and lets me hit the back hole. Pussy is fresh and tight.”

“Dam! I only had one chick who let me hit that ass. It was back in college. And everybody hit that pussy. Her name was Kalyn. She was so good in bed that she became a lesbian gynecologist.”

“I heard about her. She is a lesbian now. Dam! I bet her chicks be enjoying their sex life. And she gives them free pap smears.”

“Boy. You crazy as hell.”

Javon laughs at Keith’s joke.

Debbie puts on her clothes. She walks out the bedroom. She kisses Keith goodbye and rushes out the door.

“I’ll call you later baby.” Bye!”

“Dam Man. I guess she did not want me to see her face. She didn’t even speak to me.”

“You know how women be when somebody sees them naked. She probably was embarrassed.”

“She should be embarrassed the way you had her boy. I bet her mom and dad would be shocked. Especially at the kind of sex their baby girl be having with men. That is why I do not want kids. They do all kinds of stuff as adults.”

“Ashanti fine ass is going to trap your ass one day. You are going to be having a little Javon Jr., or Aliyah. I am surprised you are not married or have a kid by now. You almost thirty-two years old.”

“Protection baby. I make sure I pull out the pussy with my condom on. I almost slipped up one time when we were tipsy. But J said, you forgot protection. I got up in a hurry.”

“That would have been a baby that time. Good nu-nu and you pulled out. She could have taken the after- sex pill to prevent a pregnancy.”

“You are right. But I would rather be safe than sorry. She may not have wanted to take the pill. These girls be desperate to have a man’s child. Just one slip up and you got child support for eighteen years and even longer if they go to college. You always got to deal with the woman as well.”

“True that. I would have given my son’s mother the money to get an abortion, but I already knew she would have the baby. Her Christian values would prevent her from doing it. I pay a lot of child support, but I love my son.”

“I feel you, but I am not ready. It is so many women out here. I see why men cheat. So many women are pretty, with fine bodies, and they are smart with their own money. I also see why women cheat too. Brothers got good jobs, drives nice cars, got six packs bodies, have money, and have a lovely home. It’s a lot to choose from.”

“You are right man. But you can only run the streets for so long picking up strays. One day we are going to need someone to care for us when we are sick and old. You do not want just anybody caring for you. You need a steady loyal woman. You better hold on to Ashanti before some smooth talker mechanic grabs her.”

“She is not going anywhere. We are good. I’m just not marrying or having any babies.”

“I am surprised she hasn’t asked you about marriage and kids.”

“She does but I tell her, I love kids, but I am not ready for them or marriage. I just want to enjoy the moment we are having at that time.”

“And that works for you.”

“Yeah man. That works for me. Ashanti does not say anything about children or marriage after I explained my reasons for not wanting to do either right now. I give her some loving and we stay good.”

“Alright man. You know your girl.”

“Like the back of my hand. But anyway, I got the suit, and I am about to be on my way.”

“Hey! Have a drink before you go man.”

“I would cousin, but it smells like sex all up in this place. You need to change those sheets. I will catch up with you tomorrow. We can spend time together and watch the Hawks at the sports bar.”

“Okay. I’ll catch up with you tomorrow.”

Javon leaves Keith’s apartment and goes to his meeting.

CHAPTER

12

CASEY

I met Casey while working with the government. She came to see me because of stress on the job and for personal problems. She is forty-two years old, married with two children, and is a school principal. While having lunch, she noticed this tall, handsome, fair-skinned, curly hair gentlemen. She asked her secretary what his name was. She stated her secretary replied to her.

“Oh. That is Mr. Stanford. He teaches science. He has been here for about a year. You were out when he interviewed with the Assistant Principal. All the children love going to his class. Our teachers are intrigued with him as well. He’s good looking and intelligent.”

A student walks into the office while Casey and Constance are

talking about Mr. Stanford.

Renee said, “Why are you all talking about Mr. Stanford? I know he is fine and the best teacher here. Leave him out your mouth.” 

CASEY’S & CONSTANCE CONVERSATION

“Renee, what do you need?”

“Principal Casey. I need permission to use the video equipment. The librarian told me to get a form from you to approve my request for the projector and video camera.”

“Okay. Constance gives her the form.”

Casey signs the form and hands it to Renee.

“Thank you.”

Renee leaves the office. Casey and Constance continue their conversation.

“That girl is a mess. Well. That is good to know that the children look up to him. We need more male role models in our school. Is he married or have kids?”

Constance replied, “I do not think so. Why are you asking questions? You are married with kids. You got a good man who is a dentist.”

“You know that Michael and I are not doing anything these days.”

“I thought you all had corrected the situation and were back on track. Is he still cheating?”

“I do not care anymore. He violated my trust when he slept with his assistant.”

“I feel what you mean. Cheating is hard to deal with and to forgive someone for doing it. But especially when you are married.”

“I am only with Michael until our children finish school. Once they graduate, I am getting a divorce. He had his fun and now it is time for me to enjoy life.”

“Well. I guess staying around for the kids keeps the family balanced when both parents are having a good relationship with each other. But I would not be dating anyone in front of my spouse. I would not bring them around the kids.”

“I have respect for him and my kids. Even though he did not think about me. And I know everyone in his office knew he was having an affair.”

“I know right. Everybody knows not to play where they work. It never turns up good when you date someone on the job. As soon as they get mad or jealous of you, all your business is out. Some lovers will even try to make you lose your job if they are hurt by you.”

Casey had weekly appointment with my office. We talked about her being in an unhappy marriage with Michael, due to him committing adultery. She talked about not trusting and being intimate with him within the last eight months. Casey was ready to move on with her life.

Casey started to meet up with Clarence for dinner and movies. It started out with Clarence talking to her in the conference room. Then, she had him meet her in the office to discuss the math and science tournament school challenge. They started to hang out more and even double dated with friends. They went bowling and to the theatre to watch plays together.

She was really enjoying spending time with Clarence. She spoke about how Clarence was so nice and attentive to her. She talked about him being so understanding of her marriage situation. He knew she was not happy in her marriage. He was willing to wait for her.

One day I asked, “Casey, are you and Clarence sleeping together? Have you had sex with him?”

She replied, “No. I have only kissed him. But it was exciting. I have not felt this way about any man since I got married. I feel safe with Clarence. He has not rushed me to do anything I do not want to do.”

“Have you told your husband about your feelings for Clarence?”

“No. I do not want to start up chaos in our home, but I know he may suspect I am seeing someone. I have been going out twice a week and staying out late. And I only slept with Michael twice after we went to counseling after he cheated. We have not been to see the counselor for about nine months now.”

“Is there any chance that you and Michael would come in for a family counseling session with me?”

“The trust and intimacy I once had for him is gone. I do not hate him, but I am disappointed that he broke our wedding vows. I can forgive Michael, but I will never forget what he did to me.”

Two years later, Casey came back to see me. She stated that her children were off to college. She told Michael that she was in love with Clarence and that she no longer wanted to be married to him. She asked Michael for a divorce.

Michael told her he would not give her a divorce and that he wanted to save his marriage and go back to counseling.

Eventually, Casey moved out her home and bought a condominium. She started to spend time with Clarence at her new home and at Clarence’s home. Both she and Clarence had keys to each other’s homes.

Two months later, Clarence asked Casey to marry him. And she said, “Yes.”

Casey served her husband with divorce papers.

Michael was upset, so he told their children Casey was cheating on him. They were devastated about it. Her son, Daniel started drinking heavily on campus. He became disrespectful towards Casey. He started doing drugs and lost his scholarship.

Daniel ended up having a car accident while under the influence of alcohol. He injured his pelvis bone. He had limited movement with his left leg on his body. Their daughter, Annie blamed Michael for the breakup because he cheated on their mom. She was also upset with her mom for not giving her dad a second chance to work on their marriage.

Casey became stressed out more. She ended her relationship with Clarence and gave back the wedding ring. She had guilty feelings about her relationship with Clarence and about the pain the children were feeling towards the breakup of she and Michael.

She chose to move back home with Michael and her children. She decided to help Daniel with his physical therapy and rehabilitation. Both she and Michael also went to couples counseling and family counseling. They realized that one mistake can destroy the family dynamics.

Although, she was an educator, Casey realized that she had forgotten the concept of forgiveness. Forgiveness is letting go and rebuilding yourself when others hurt you. It does not give the person who did wrong a pass, but it shows you have the power within yourself, not to be a victim anymore.

Michael learned that if he had not been engaging with his employee at lunch time and discussing what he was not receiving from Casey, he would not have cheated. He and Casey should have gone to counseling before he cheated on her.

Casey learned that she missed compliments from her husband about her physical appearance. And if she had spent more time listening to Michael’s needs, he may have not broken their wedding vows. She also realized that if she had not expressed to Clarence about her family issues, she would have never slept with him, and broke his and her children’s heart.

“Casey and Michael remained married. They rebuilt their relationship back with God and each other. Their kids have finished college and have a great relationship with their parents.

Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”

-Hebrews 13:4. ESV

CHAPTER

13

LAWSUIT

Tanya met with lawyers of the family members, who died from diabetes neuropathy and Covid 19 Virus prescription medications that the Comtrex Company manufactures. Ashanti Reynolds, the CEO is also present at the meeting. Comtrex paid out a settlement of 1.5 million dollars to the fatality case victims. Investigations and medical reports revealed that the diabetic neuropathy patients had pre-existing health problem and had been in contact with positive Covid 19 Virus family members. Therefore, no payment was issued.

Lab and medication reports indicated that clients misused the diabetes medications which caused them to become sick. Ashanti is pleased with Tanya’s work with the lawsuit. A GAG order is in place where the families will not do any public interviews regarding the company’s lawsuit. The families will also acknowledge the company did not do any wrong- doing in signed settlement.

All parties leave Tanya’s office.

Ashanti said, “Thanks for your help. Do you want to have dinner to celebrate me not losing everything?”

Tanya replied, “Not tonight. I need to check in on Larry. He has been acting strange lately. I cannot put my finger on it right now, but I know he is up to something.”

“I thought you too were in therapy and doing well.”

“Yes. We are still going to therapy, but he complains that I am jealous of other women.”

“So, it seems like a trust issue.”

“I trust him. But any man will cheat. They think they are slick. It is bad enough that he is an exotic dancer.”

“But Tanya. You knew this before you started dating him. But you chose to marry him anyway.”

“I know. But that was before I knew how irritating he can be. I was obsessed with his nice smile, with his ripped body, and with his sexy lips. He used to please me orally like no other man.”

“So, what happened to the thrill?”

“We argue over me working. He wants me to cut my hours. He is tired of going to marriage counseling sessions. And I am tired of him working at the club. We both have been tired for some months now.”

“I feel you. Two people working all the time can stress them out and cause havoc in your relationships.”

“I know right. We are due a vacation. My dad also wants me to have grand babies for him and my stepmom. But I want to wait awhile longer.”

“I want a child from Javon. But I do not think he wants kids yet.”

Well. You know Javon. He is still out there. I did not know that you too were that serious.”

“We date and we have a connection with each other. He has not proposed but maybe he will down the road.”

“You deserve a good man because you are a good woman. But do not wait on him for years, waiting on him to marry you.”

“I will not wait on him. But I will not rush him. But thanks for the talk and help with my cases. I guess I will head to the gym to work out. I will talk to you later.”

“Okay. Take care. Let me know if you need anything else.”

Ashanti leaves Tanya’s office. She receives a call from Keisha.

“Hey girl. What are you up too?”

“I am headed to the gym.”

“I’ve been at All Fitness for about twenty minutes.”

“I should be there in about ten minutes. I am leaving Tanya’s office.”

“Okay. I already worked out for about ten minutes, but I could use your steps training class to build endurance. I need to get this stomach flat and get these rolls off my back. I will see you soon. Bye!”

Ashanti arrives at the gym. She greets Keisha. Then, she puts on her sweats and starts her step aerobic exercise class. She and Keisha work out for fifty minutes.

After their workout, Ashanti observes Javon in the corner by the weights. A black male is spotting him with the weighs. Javon stands up and the male slaps him on the butt. Then, Javon spots him for his weightlifting exercises.

“Hey girl. Who are you looking at?”

Javon is over there. I did not know he worked out here.”

Javon is looking good. Who is the guy with him? I would not mind seeing him tonight.”

“Yes. I know. He is good looking.”

“We need to go over there and meet up with our men.”

“No. I do not want to interrupt him during his exercise training.”

“You’re right. I seem thirsty. I am. It has been a while since I had sex. So, I will let them have their space to work out. But you call me later with details on his friend’s name and digits.”

“I do not think I should tell him I was at the gym and saw him. You know guys be thinking you spying on them.”

“Really! You are going to leave me hanging. That’s cold- blooded girl.”

“I could say that a friend saw him at the gym and wanted to get the guy’s name who was standing by him and spotting him in the weights area. That way he does not know I was there.”

“That’s what I’m talking about. Look out for your sister.”

They laugh at each other and walk out the gym into the parking lot. Then, they drive away.

CHAPTER

14

BEVERLY REMINISCES

Beverly attended Mays High School with Pastor Richard Azuri. She was his high school girlfriend. She was a little on the edge for Pastor, so, he stopped dating her. His parents felt like she was a worldly girl. She dressed in hippy clothes and liked to smoke marijuana. She was beautiful and popular in school. Her grades were good, but no ivy league school was knocking on her doorstep with academic scholarships.

Richard, on the other hand, was a leader. He wanted to follow his father’s legacy of being a pastor. He was always in church and in his books. I do not know how he and Beverly hooked up. He was not a nerd, but he was on the debate and track team. He was tall and handsome. He had a nice smile with cute dimples.

Beverly was the 11th grade homecoming beauty contest winner. She was also Ms. Benjamin E. Mays. She always had a sweet personality, and everyone loved her. She helped her family out in the church, but she did not attend every Sunday, as Richard did. She loved cosmetology and chemistry. She was a cheerleader and played tennis.

She and Richard met through his friend, Devon. Devon was a player in school who would hang with Richard after school. His father, Darryl and Richard’s father, Winston worked together at the GMC Plant in Doraville. Darryl felt that Devon could make Richard more sociable with the girls. Both Darryl and Winston felt that Richard would need to learn more about girls before he went off to college.

Devon introduced Richard to Beverly. She liked him immediately. She claimed him as her boyfriend. However, she told him he had to dress up to be with her. You see Richard was a dress pants and button-down, polo shirt wearing type teenager. His parents made him dress as if he was going on an interview every day.

Beverly started to meet him at his locker before his next class. He started eating with her outside in his Ford Pick Up Truck. He would pick her up from school and they would spend time together at her home. Her parents knew that Richard would be a great guy for her since his dad, Winston was a pastor at the church.

Sharon and Tyler felt that Richard could slow their daughter down with the other boys. Beverly was not fast, but she hung around guys. They wanted their daughter to go off to college and have a good male for her to date. Beverly needed a change in guys because the people she dated, only wanted to pass her around. They had her smoking weed and drinking alcohol.

These boys were trying to persuade her to have sex before marriage. Her parents suspected she may have been having sex with other boys, but they had no proof.

Sharon put her daughter, Beverly on birth control when she was fifteen years old. She always made sure that she had condoms in her purse. Her parents had already told her that she would have to leave the home if she got pregnant. So far, she agreed to the terms and had not gotten pregnant.

Beverly and Richard dated for a year in a half, and he became poplar at Mays. He became the school king at the senior prom. Girls were starting to notice him more while he was dating Beverly. Beverly would get annoyed and start to get jealous at times.

One day Richard was talking to a cheerleader and Beverly found out about it. Richard came outside and saw that his two rear tires were flat. Beverly walked up to him and asked about his truck as if nothing happened. She had another girl damage his tires. Then, she got a ride home with her friend’s brother.

Richard had to catch a ride home with his friend Devon. His dad later came to the school and put new tires on his truck.

The next day at school, Beverly hugged her friend’s brother, Kendal. He was rubbing on her butt and kissing her on the neck. Richard became upset and walked pass her.

Then, he came back and tapped her on the shoulder and said, “We need to talk.”

Beverly replied, “I’ll talk to you later.”

She continued hugging up on Kendal. Richard was embarrassed and went on to his class.

During lunch period, Richard decided to leave campus and get food at the restaurant down the street. As he was walking to his car, he met a girl named, Monica. She tapped him on the shoulder and said, “Why are you leaving? I thought you would be hanging with Beverly.”

Richard replied, “we are going to breakup. She was hugging a guy on the basketball team. That was disrespectful to me.”

Monica said, “Yeah. Sorry about that. I used to date Kendal, but he always liked Beverly. He is immature and likes to play games. I like guys who are smart, cute, and respectful. Like you.”

Richard replied, “So you think I’m cute and sexy.”

Monica said, “You are smart and cute. I do not know all about sexy.”

They both laughed and Richard asks her out to see a movie that weekend. Monica accepted his invitation. They exchanged numbers and Richard drove away in his truck. Monica walked away with a smile on her face and went back into the school.

The weekend came and Richard picked up Monica at her home. He brought her flowers.

Monica said, “Thank you. That was sweet of you.”

They arrived at the movie theatre. They walked into the movie and got their tickets and snacks.

Richard asks Monica if he may place his arm around her while in the movie.

She replied, “Yes.”

They enjoyed their movie and Richard took Monica home. Both hugged each other before getting out of the truck.

Richard asks Monica, “May I kiss you?”

Monica replied, “Yes.”

They kiss for about a minute. Then, they separated.

Monica says, “I had a wonderful time.”

Richard replied, “Me too. I hope we can do it again.”

Monica said, “You have my number now and you know where I live.

“Call me when you get home.”

Richard replied, “I will. See you later.”

Monica waves bye and walks into her home.

Rebecca meets Monica at the door.

Monica asks, “Mom. How long have you been standing outside?”

Rebecca replied, “Not long. But I did see you kiss him. He is a good-looking boy. I wish I had met him before you went on your date. But your dad said he was a good kid, and his dad was a pastor. So, he is all right. Did he treat you well and respect you at the movies?”

Monica replied, “Yes mam.”

Both Monica and Rebecca walk back into their home.

Monday morning, Beverly observes Richard standing by his locker.

She walks up to him and kisses him on the neck. He turns around and says, “Don’t touch me. Where is the boy you were kissing last week?”

Beverly replied, “That wasn’t anything. I flirt but you know I want you.”

Richard replied, “Well. I do not flirt and play games with people. Maybe you need to stay with someone who likes games.”

Beverly replied, “Really dude. I heard you went to the movies with that girl, Monica. Also, before I kissed Kendal. You were talking to another girl.”

Richard replied, “What are you talking about? The only girl I talked to in class was my lab partner for our science project.”

Beverly replied, “Well. I thought you were kicking it with her, and I got upset. But we can get back to us now, since I know you were not playing me.”

Richard replied, “I do not think so. Maybe we should just be friends.”

Beverly kisses Richard and grabs his groining area. Then, she whispers in his ear.

Beverly said, “I want to see you after school. My parents will be away. Let us just spend time together for a while and talk. I will make it up to you. I am sorry. I do not want Kendal.”

Richard replied, “I will think about it.”

Beverly kisses him again.

Richard replied, “Okay. But no more games.”

They depart from each other and go to class.

It is three thirty and the last school bell rings. Benjamin E. Mays dismisses its students. Richard and Beverly meet up at her home. Her parents are away. They go into her bedroom. Beverly takes off her clothes and gets under the sheets. She tells Richard to take off his clothes. Richard takes off his clothes. She starts to rub his penis and he starts to get an erection.

Richard says, “I do not have condoms. Maybe we should not be doing this.”

Beverly replied, “It is okay. I have condoms. Here. Put it on.”

Richard places the condom on and he and Beverly kiss and have sex.

After the encounter, Richard kisses Beverly on the forehead and lips. Beverly kisses him back. They lay in bed for about thirty minutes. Then, Beverly wakes up and goes into the bathroom to take a shower. She later comes back to her room and puts on her clothes.

Richard kisses her again and hugs her.

Beverly says, “Richard I enjoyed having sex with you, but you have to go because my brother will be home soon.”

Richard replied, “Okay. So, I guess I will see you tomorrow.”

Beverly replied, “Yeah. For sure. See you tomorrow.”

Richard puts on his clothes and leaves Beverly’s home.

Beverly and Richard hooked up for the remainder of the year, but it was not a relationship. It was just sex. Richard wanted more in life, and he wanted a girlfriend who loved him and respected him. He felt like it was just sex with Beverly.

Richard and Beverly broke up after graduation. Beverly went off to college to Georgia State University and Richard went to Morehouse.

During orientation, Richard ran into Monica, who was registering for a class at Spelman. He and Monica began to date again. Richard realized he still had feelings for Monica even though he never called her back for a second date. Monica reminded him of how he left her hanging and was in love with Beverly. Later, Richard and Monica became close and ended up getting married.

RETURNED BACK

Twenty years after Richard and Monica had children, Beverly met up with a friend of hers at his church. Her friend, Wayne introduced her to Richard not knowing they had dated in high school. But Beverly later explained to Wayne about their history. Beverly did not know Richard was a pastor, but she knew he came from a Christian background. She also did not know he had married Monica.

They spent time together for hours and exchanged numbers. Weeks later, Beverly would come to his church and donate large sums of money to assist with the children’s ministry. She owned multiple hair-salons throughout Atlanta, Florida, and Alabama.

One day she and Richard met for lunch to discuss a business proposal for the church. She had Richard meet her at her home in Buckhead. Richard agreed and met her at her mansion. When he arrived, Beverly greeted him with a hug and kiss. They sat down and ate lunch.

While eating, Beverly apologized to Richard for how she treated him in high school, and she told him that he was a good man.

Richard replied, “We were young. No problem. All is well.”

Beverly replied, “I know but I just wanted to say, I’m sorry. If I could do a do over I would.”

After eating lunch, Beverly asks Richard to come to her office to look at blueprints for the church project. She closes the door. Richard sits down. She comes behind him and kisses him on the neck and mouth. Then, she grinds him while he sits in the chair. He tries to stop her, but she keeps kissing him.

Then, she grabs his penis and unzips his pants. He attempts to move her, but she places his penis in her mouth. He becomes aroused and ends up making love to her on the floor.

After the encounter, he gets up and apologizes to her.

Richard said, “I should have not let that happened. I know better. We both know better. I have never done this before. I am supposed to be an example for my church.”

Beverly replied, “I am not sorry. I wanted you since we met back up. It was bound to happen. It’s okay.”

Beverly kisses him but Richard removes her hands away from his face.

Richard said, “I have to leave. We cannot see each other again.”

Beverly replied, “But, what about the children’s ministry project? You do not want to disappoint them and the church.”

Richard replied, “No, I do not but this is compromising. I have let the church down and my family. I cannot accept any more donations.”

Beverly replied, “Nonsense. You need the money, and I am going to continue to donate. I am not going anywhere. You are a man. It was sex. Just repent.”

Richard replied, “You just do not get it. I have to leave.”

Beverly replied, “Okay.”

Richard leaves Beverly’s home and drives home.

Beverly continues to donate to the church but leaves town. She moves to New York for the next sixteen years.

CHAPTER

15

KERRI

Kerri has left town for business for about two weeks. Claire is up to her old tricks and still hanging out with co-workers. Since she has trust issues with Claire, Kerri hires a private detective to watch Claire’s daily activities.

Claire is unaware Kerri is monitoring her. She has just started hanging out with a new police officer she met through the mayor at a city event. Sydney is cool and down to earth. She is twenty-five, beautiful, medium size, with long wavy hair, with a caramel complexion, and has no children. She relocated from California to work in law enforcement in Georgia.

Chemistry at first sight. They joked around at the city’s function, and Sydney asked Claire to come to her house party the following week. Claire agreed to hang out and took friends of hers to the event. They played games and had drinks. Sydney’s ex was there with her new woman along with strippers.

Sydney told one of the strippers to give Claire a lap dance which led to kissing and fondling. This proceeded to more intense sexual gratification. Claire has become drunk. Courtney comes over and sits next to her and rubs her leg. Courtney was fine with long hair. She had a shape like the famous tennis player. She did not want to stop dancing for Claire. She tried to take her into the bathroom with her to have sex.

However, Sydney stopped her by saying, “Hold up B. I brought her here for me. You just get to feel her up. I want her for myself later.”

“We always share our women. What is up with that? Is she special? Is she some type of star or something?”

“No B. But I brought her here, so I can get that pussy she got. Plus, I heard she has a long tongue and knows how to fuck a B and gives good head.”

“So, you are just going to be stingy and leave a B out. Okay. But you owe me next time.”

“Don’t be like that. I got you next time.”

Courtney leaves the room and goes to dance with another dancer.

Meanwhile, Sydney and Claire go outside on the balcony and chat.

“Your friend is wild. But sexy and beautiful.”

“Yeah. She is cool. So, you like that type of girl.”

“I like women who explore their sensuality and sexuality. I do not like labels or playing games.”

“Neither do I. I like my body devoured. I want the right person to do that. I need someone who is uninhibited and will have their way with me.”

Both Claire and Sydney look at each other in the eyes. Claire kisses Sydney and they walk back into the home. They have a drink and go into Sydney’s bedroom.

Sydney undresses herself along with Claire.

Claire said, “Are you a pillow- princes or are you aggressive?”

“I am whatever I want to be. I will be back. Let me use the restroom first.”

Sydney goes inside the bathroom and turns on her hidden camera. She freshens up and comes out the bathroom naked holding a bag of pleasure toys.

“Dam! Come here.”

Sydney walks over to the bed. Claire grabs her neck and passionately kisses her. She throws her on the bed and kisses her breast. Sydney groans as she proceeds down her legs into her forest. Claire licks her clitoris by using her tongue in such a manner that the neighbors and guest hear Sydney making noises.

Then, Claire pushes Sydney’s legs over her shoulders while she orally devours her pussy with her long tongue.

“What? What are you doing to me? Shit got dam! Don’t you stop.”

Claire does not stop. She grabs a dildo and places it gently on

Sydney’s anus.”

Sydney starts to scream and shake.

“Oh.! Oh. Ah. I am coming. I am coming. Dammit!”

“You okay. You were screaming like I was beating you up.”

“That felt good as hell. Rumors are true. You know your way around the pussy. We got to hook up again. Definitely later.”

Claire’s phone starts to ring.

“I have to take this call.”

Claire places her clothes on and steps into the bathroom.

“Hey Baby. You are up late. I thought you would be getting rest for your meetings.”

“I know. But I wanted to hear your voice before I went to bed. I wanted to talk dirty to you. I want to make you miss me more. Are you missing me baby?”

“I always miss my baby.”

Sydney walks up to her bathroom door. She summons Claire to come back to bed with a whip hand gesture.

“Baby. I am getting another call. It may be about that fire we had earlier with the fatality. I will call you in the morning. I love you.”

“Okay baby. Do not work too hard. Love you.”

“Okay. Love you. Bye.

Claire hangs up the phone with Kerri. Sydney pulls her back into her bedroom and makes love to her.

CHAPTER

16

ANN & TERRY

Ann met Terry at the Crow’s Nest Club on Old National Highway. Terry was dancing and getting his drink on all night. She was in love at first sight. She loved the way he was joking with the staff and how he kept watching her on the dance floor.

Terry walked over and said, “My Queen. Let me take you on the floor and get our souls inter twined.”

Ann laughed and smiled at Terry. She took his hand and started to dance with him. They were dancing to It Takes Two to Make a Thing Go Right song. After three dances on the floor and drinking Henessy. Both Ann and Terry sat down at a booth and chatted with each other.

“So, where are you from girl with your fine ass? You smell and look good.”

“I’m from Augusta but I’ve been in Atlanta for most of my life. Where are you from? And what’s your name?”

“Augusta, Georgia. Okay. I got people from there. But anyway, I am Terry. I have been here all my life. I am a Grady baby. I live on the Westside of town. So, are you married? What is your name? You got a boyfriend?”

“Well nice to meet you too Terry. I am Ann. I am just dating. I’m divorced.”

“Alright. So, you have been dating. I was about to say to you, “Why did your man let you go out to the club alone? He must be a crazy brother. But how long have you been divorced?”

“I divorced my children’s father twenty years ago. So, Terry are you married? Do you have any kids? What do you do for a living? Do you have your own crib?”

“Ann. I like that you are straight to the point. You are not like them young girls playing them games. But I have never been married. No kids that I am aware of, and I work in construction. I live with my mom because she is getting old. I’m saving my money up for a home.”

“So, Terry do you have an old lady or girlfriend?”

“I’m just like you dating and having fun. I have not met that special lady yet. Who knows Ann? You might be my type of woman.”

“I might be. We must see. But so far, your lines of a smooth talker are working.”

“I’m serious girl. But do you work?”

“Yes. I’m a nurse at correctional detention center.”

“No way. Okay. You are a smart woman giving out them drugs to criminals. I like an intelligent woman. How long have you been a nurse? And what side of town do you live on?”

“I’ve spent twenty- two years as a nurse. I live in the Westend area. I’ve been in my house for ten years now.”

“Do you live alone or with your kids? How old are the kids?”

“Both of my kids are grown and live alone. Once they turned eighteen. They had to get out.”

“So, you live all alone in your home.”

“Pretty much except for when I have friends that come over and stay. I like having my peace of mind.”

Terry’s friend, Ralph walks up to him and tells him he is about to leave the club.

“You all are leaving right now man. I just met someone. Ann, this is my friend, Ralph. We have been knowing each other for years. We work together.”

“Hey Ann. Nice to me you. Man. You know we got a job to do in the morning at the airport. So, unless Ann is giving you a ride home. You better come on with us.”

“You’re right. Well Ann. May I have your number? We can hook up later sometime. Will you let me take you to dinner? Write your number down on this card.”

“Okay. I would like that. Nice meeting you and Ralph.”

Ann writes her number down on the card. Terry and Ralph leave the club.

Later, Ann and Terry date for months. Ann must drive Terry around because he cannot drive. This is due to him having DUIs. She finally meets Terry’s mother, Ms. Betsy.

“Come on in here and meet my mom. Mama. This is my woman, Ann. The nurse I was telling you about.”

“Nice to meet you, mam.”

“How are you doing Ann? Terry talks about you like you are a model. He really likes you.”

“I like him too. He is fun to be with.”

“Yeah. He has everybody laughing. So, Terry told me you are

divorced.”

“Yes mam.”

“How many times you been married?

“Two times. It just did not work out. They were abusive and did not want to work.

“Yeah. You must get rid of them if they be hitting on you and will not work and pay bills. How long ago was your divorce?”

“Both about twenty years ago.”

“So, what are you going to do when Terry has been laid off? You know construction workers pay is less when they are off work, and when the weather is bad. Terry makes less money when it is harsh weather. Is Terry able to move in with you?”

“Only If he gets another job to help out. I’m fine with him moving in.”

“How old are you, Ann? You seem like you are about fifty. You know Terry is only thirty- five.”

“I’m forty-eight years old. But age don’t mean nothing.”

“Well. You know Terry loves women and he likes to party. You think you can manage him.”

“I think so. We get along well together. Sometimes, younger men must leave home and cling to a wife. This makes them grow up and become more mature. If they remain staying at home with their mama, daddy, brother, sister, and not pay any rent; they become crippled. When men stay at home with their mother’s too long, they act like a kid. They must grow up. The same goes for daughters too.”

“Well. Mama. We are about to go to a movie and eat dinner. I am staying at Ann’s house tonight.”

“Okay. She may need to keep you there.”

“Nice meeting you, Mrs. Betsy.”

“Alright. You’ll be safe.”

Terry hugs his mother and leaves his home with Ann. He opens the door for Ann, and they drive to her home while chatting.

“Your mom is a trip. She asked me about my age. Do you have a problem with me being older?”

“Baby. Mom is old school. I am her baby boy. She just wants me to be happy. I am the only man in her life, since dad died.”

“Does she date or have a male friend?”

“She had a friend, but he passed away.”

“I just felt like she really didn’t care for me.”

“I’m dating you because I want too. She cannot stop me from falling in love with you girl.”

“So, you are in love with me, Terry.”

“Yes. Baby. We are going to be married soon.”

“You are so sweet.”

They pull over and kiss in the car.

A year later, Terry and Ann get married at the Fulton County courthouse. Family and friends attend the wedding ceremony and Ann’s sister, Susan gives the reception at her home.

CHAPTER

17

BLACKMAIL

Beverly has arrived back in town after being gone away for sixteen years. She calls her friend Deacon Wayne, and they chat on the phone.

“Hello.”

“Hey stranger. How are you doing?”

“Is this my girl, Bev?”

“The one and only one.”

“It’s been at least five years since we talked. Where have you been hiding?

“I have been living in California and New York.”

“Okay. You done got married yet with your beautiful self.”

“Not yet. All the good ones are married.”

“Maybe so, but I thought you would have men crawling up your doorsteps asking you to marry them.”

“Not the guys I meet. I need someone who has themselves together, spiritually, financially, and physically. They do not need to be rich or religious, but they must be able to take care of themselves and me if we fall or have burdens.”

“I feel what you are saying girl. You can do bad by yourself.”

Beverly asked her friend, Deacon Wayne to arrange for Pastor Richard and her to have a meeting. Deacon Wayne agrees to set up the meeting. He has no idea that Beverly and pastor Richard slept together. He is under the impression that Beverly wants to donate to the church as she has done over the years.

Beverly advises Deacon Wayne not to let Pastor Richard know who wants to meet with him, but to just set the time at 2:00 PM in his chambers at the church.

“Just let him know a philanthropist wants to give a large donation to his ministry.”

“Okay. I will do it once we are off the phone.

“Thank you. I will talk to you later.”

“Okay. But we must go to lunch soon and catch up.”

“I will definitely set some time for us next week.”

“Okay. I am looking forward to seeing you. All right. Have a good day.”

“You too, Wayne.”

Deacon Wayne hangs up the phone and sets up an appointment for Pastor and Beverly to meet. He walks down the hallway and knocks on Pastor Richard’s door.

“Come in.”

“Hey Pastor. Looks like you are busy.”

“I’m just looking at how we can get more resources for the youth and summer camp vacation for those less fortunate.”

“Well. God has answered your prayers. I just got a call from a person today who wants to donate a large amount of money to our church. They want to meet with you tomorrow at 2:00 PM. I told them I would contact you and get back in touch with them.

“That’s good news. I can meet with them tomorrow. Do you know their name or organization they are affiliated with?”

“The person stated that they wanted to keep it private and just meet with you.”

“I understand. They might be billionaires. They might be private famous folks who need security because strangers be following them around trying to stalk them.”

“You got that right. Rich folk have fame, money, but no privacy. I love my freedom, but I also love money too. I can buy security with money to keep me safe and enjoy my life.”

“Money is fine Deacon but being able to walk down the street and enjoy a meal without interruption is priceless.”

“I guess so. Well. Let me call the person back and let them know you have agreed to the meeting. I will let you get back to your work.”

“Okay. Thanks again, Deacon Wayne.”

“Anytime Pastor.”

Deacon Wayne calls Beverly back and leaves a message confirming the meeting.

The next day, Beverly arrives at the church. She advises the receptionist that she is there for a meeting with Pastor Richard. Carla walks back to Pastor Richard’s office. She knocks on the door. Pastor Richard advises her to come in.

“Pastor, your 2:00 PM appointment is here.”

“You may send them back. Thank you, Carla.”

Carla advises Beverly to walk with her to Pastor Richard’s office.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Let me know if you need anything else.”

“I’m fine. But thank you so much.”

Carla walks back to the front lobby area. Beverly enters Pastor Richard’s chambers.

“It’s been a long time. You have not aged at all. Still sexy.”

“Why are you here Beverly? I told you years ago that I was happily married and what happened was a mistake. God has forgiven me. I have repented for our sinful act.”

“I’m sure God has forgiven you, but I still care for you. Our lustful moment only showed me that you could not resist me. That evening made us bonded for life.”

“What are you talking about? Why are you here? I was told a person wanted to donate a generous sum of money to the church.”

“That is correct. I will be donating $100,000 to your church. As you should be aware of my donations over the years. I never stopped giving to your church over the years. And that’s because I have an interest in you and helping youth and families less fortunate.”

“Beverly, I cannot be bought with money.”

“I didn’t have to buy you when you slept with me. We just had lunch. I still remember how you held me and made me have an orgasm.”

“I was foolish. I regret that moment. I do not blame anyone but myself. I am sorry that I misled you. I never meant to hurt you or my family. Please forgive me.”

“Richard. There is no need for you to be sorry. It was my pleasure to please you. Is your wife taking care of you? How is Monica and your children?”

“I would rather not talk about my family. I wish for you to reconsider giving your donation. The church will find other resources.”

“No. I will still give to your church because I love helping others. Our relationship does not stop me from giving to God.”

“I just want you to be clear. I love my wife. I will never hurt her again.”

“Really! You did not care about her when we were making love.”

“It was a mistake. I was wrong. It should have never happened.”

“Well Richard. I have someone for you to meet. Your mistake.”

“What are you talking about? I mean the act of lust was wrong.”

Beverly walks out of Richard’s office into the lobby. She calls Brent on his phone and tells him to meet her in Pastor Richard’s office.

Brent walks into the building. He follows Beverly to Pastor Richard’s office.

“Baby. I want you to meet someone special to me and you. This is Pastor Richard.”

“Hello, Pastor. How are you? I’m Brent.”

“Nice to meet you, Brent.”

“My mother told me that I should meet a positive role model in the church, since I will be studying psychology and theology at Morehouse next year.”

“What’s your mother’s name?”

“I’m his mother. Brent is seventeen. He plays football and is on the honor roll. He is an uprising senior at North Atlanta Magnet Academy.”

“Mom. I thought you mentioned me since you suggested I talk to him.”

“Sweetie. I did not get a chance to tell him that I had a son. We are just old friends reconnecting.”

“No worries. Mom, I am glad I got to meet a Morehouse man with good Christian morals and leadership.”

“Baby. Why don’t you wait for me in the lobby? I just need to take care of business with Pastor Richard. I will be out there in a minute. Afterwards, we can go shopping for your car.”

“Okay mom. It was nice meeting you.”

“Same here. Young man. Good luck with school. We need more Morehouse men.”

Brent walks out of Pastor Richard’s office.

“I knew he would love you and respect you.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you had a son? Who is his father?”

“You are his father. We have a bond for life. He is our mistake. No, I stand corrected. Brent is not a mistake. He is our miracle child.”

“What? You mean he is my son. I must sit down. You had a child and kept it a secret from me.”

“Yes. I did. And I was not going to have an abortion. I made sure our son Brent had a loving environment. I told him his father was a doctor who finished Morehouse, but that we separated from each other before he was born.”

“I cannot believe this. I need a DNA test. I am in a good space with Monica. This cannot be happening to me.”

“Is that all you care about? Your precious Monica. You have another son to make up for lost time with him.”

“I do not know what to do. Are you sure he is mine?”

“Richard. He looks exactly like you. Count the years we have been away from each other since we made love in my home. It is time to let your family know you have an outside son. It is time for Claire and James to meet their brother. If you do not let them know our secret, I will tell Monica and your children.”

“Why is this happening? Why are you trying to destroy my family?”

Richard please! Our son has been waiting for you all his life. I waited to tell you so it would not hurt your ministry.”

“So. You think it will not hurt the church now. My imperfection will take our members apart. They will leave this church without hesitation. This type of scandal will cause all types of problems. People will lose faith in the word of God. I will not be able to lead the people.”

“People sin and recover all the time. You are a man and not God. Time will heal your church congregation. They will forgive you and accept you. You have until next week to meet with me and your family. I am sorry. But my son needs to know his father and siblings.”

Beverly leaves Richard’s office. She and her son drive away from the church.

Meanwhile, Richard is in shock. He is anxious and upset. He throws a book against the wall and starts to weep.

Three days later, Richard is playing golf with Deacon Wayne and Deacon Joe. He has a tightness in his chest and tingling in his hands. He drops the golf club and passes out. Joe calls 911. The ambulance arrived on scene.

The ambulance transported him to the hospital. He had a heart attack and is in surgery. His family came to the hospital.

They arrive and remain by his side for hours. The surgery went well with minor complications. However, per his doctors, he will need to remain in the hospital for months. He also suffered a stroke.

Pastor Richard must remain in the hospital for six months. Once discharged, Richard will have physical therapy at his home. The church has decided that Pastor James Azuri will step up in his father’s place, as the lead pastor, while Pastor Richard recovers from his physical ailments.

CHAPTER

18

CHURCH

Ann and Terry have been arguing at each other for weeks. Her friend, Ruth Ann suggests that she and Terry attend church for healing and for counseling. Both agree and attend church service with Pastor James. After Pastor preaches, he asks for backsliders and those in need of prayer to come to the altar.

Terry, Ann, and others walk down to the altar. Pastor James ask the musicians to play soft music and to turn the church lights down. He anoints each person’s head with oil as he walks around the altar. Then, he prays for them.

“Lord thank you for those who kneel in front of you and those in their seats. Keep them safe as you allow them to conduct their purpose for you. Bless them in good health and in their finances. Heal their broken hearts and any strong hold addictions they may have on them. Keep everyone’s family safe.” 

CONGREGATION

“Yes. Lord. Yes Lord. Keep them safe.”

“Let them know they are loved and forgiven for all their wrong doings. And last Lord, please keep them on the right path as you would have them to be on. In Jesus name, Amen.”

Everyone returns to their seats. The choir sings a song.

Pastor James asks, “Is there anyone here without a church home who is looking for one? If so, please raise your hands and someone will come to you or if you feel okay with walking down to the altar, we welcome you to come.”

Three people walk down. Terry walks down as well. The pastor hugs them. He asked each person’s name and where they are from. Then, Pastor James has the ushers to escort new members to the conference room.

“God is good. We have three more people saved. Thank you, Jesus. Now before I dismiss you. I have two things to say. First, make sure you go online or meet with Deacon Wayne in the lobby area, and pick up author, Gloria. J. Warren’s book, God’s Gifts Are Not for Free. You Have to Work Them. It is now available on www.amazon.com and on the website www.SWLGTALKS.com. Debbie and I already purchased it.”

Sister Maria said, “I got mine already, Pastor.”

“Second, Kaleb and Debbie, will you please come down to the altar?”

Debbie and Kaleb walk to the altar.

Pastor James hugs Debbie and says, “Baby. You know that I love you so much. I am ready to be your husband. Kaleb, please hand me the ring.”

Kaleb pulls out a small blue box and hands it to Pastor. Pastor James bends down on his right knee and says, “Will you marry me, Deborah Alisa Smith?”

Debbie is in tears and shaking.

“Yes. Yes. I love you.”

Debbie hugs and kisses Pastor James.

The congregation claps and whistle out after the marriage proposal announcement.

Pastor James completes the benediction and dismisses everyone.

BROOM

A month later, Ann is preparing to go to work. She must catch the bus, due to Terry wrecking her car. He received a DUI. She grabs her bag and lunch. She kisses Terry and walks out the door. The bus #97 comes in front of her home at 9:06 PM.

Ann is on the bus and arrives at Oakland City Train Station. She is about to get on the train. Suddenly, she realizes that she does not have her nurse ID badge. She turns around and walks downstairs. She calls Terry on the phone, but he does not answer. The next bus does not come until forty minutes later. She is going to be wrote up for lateness. She calls her job.

“Nurses station. This is Jaime. How can I help you?”

“Hey Jamie. It is Ann. How are you doing?”

“I’m good. But ready to get off. What is going on? You on the way.”

“Listen. I am going to be late. I left my badge and didn’t realize it until I got to the train station.”

“Ann. You have been late three times this month and I thought by switching you from dayshift to night shift, it would help with your attendance. I must write you up. How late are you going to be? Because Cindy has already been here for sixteen hours?”

“Probably two hours. The buses are running every hour, and the trains run every twenty minutes. My car is damaged, and it is in the shop. I can stay over if you need me in the morning.”

“Alright. I’ll see you in two hours.”

Ann hangs up the phone and waits for her bus. The bus arrives and she rides back home. She arrives home and opens the door. She hears strange noises in her bedroom. She knocks on the door and shouts out.

“Terry! Terry! What are you doing in there?”

Ann opens the door and observes Terry in bed with another woman. She grabs a lamp and throws it at him and the lady. Terry jumps up out of the bed.

“Ann. I’m sorry. Girl, get up and get out of here! This is my wife.”

“I thought you were divorced. You are a lying ass Negro. I am out. I am so sorry mam. I did not know he was married.”

“Bitch! Get the hell out my home. Now Bitch!”

Candy runs out the bedroom pass Ann. Ann grabs her by the hair. Terry tries to stop Ann and she bites his fingers. Ann grabs a broom and strikes Candy on her back and on her head as she runs out the front door.

Candy jumps off the porch and rushes across the street. She enters her car. Then, she drives away.

“Negro. Get out my way before I mess you up! God let me see what you have been up too while I’m out here slaving and working to pay these bills.”

“I’m sorry. Ann, she does not mean anything to me. You been working at night. And I was lonely.”

“Baster, please. I work because you keep getting dam suspended for drinking on the job. You think I want to be out on the streets. I was on my way to work, and this is what you were doing. You get out of my house. Go stay with your Bitch! Go stay with your dam mama! I do not care where you go.”

Terry calls his mother on the phone. His mother comes to Ann’s home and picks him up.

Three weeks later, Ann goes in for her annual physical exam. She had her pap smear and blood work done. A week later, Dr. Maine advises her to come to her office. Ann agrees to come back to see her doctor.

When she arrived at the clinic, the receptionist speaks to her and says, “Hi. Ms. Ann. You can go back. Dr. Maine is ready for you in room three.

“Thank you.”

Ann walks back to room three.

Dr. Maine said, “Hey Mrs. Ann. How are you doing today?”

“I’m good. I just want to know why you had me come in today.”

“Well. Your lab work came back. We found out you have a STD.”

“What? I cannot believe this. I have only been with my husband.”

“The good thing is that it is treatable and curable. You have Chlamydia (STD) Sexual Transmitted Disease.”

“That Mother Fucker! Dr. Maine. I am leaving my husband. I have never had a disease. Three weeks ago, I caught Terry, in my bedroom with another woman. And now you tell me I got a STD.”

“I’m sorry to hear that but make sure that you let him know as well. He needs to receive treatment as well. Make sure you do not have any sex for about a month. You must take all the antibiotics I am prescribing for you.”

“I will Dr. Maine. I’m glad it was not HIV or Aids.”

“Yes. So am I. But all your other blood work and test are good. Your blood pressure is good. Your blood glucose level is at normal levels. I also see you lost about five pounds. That is good! I will see you in about a month, to make sure you no longer have bacteria traces of Chlamydia.”

“Okay. Thank you.”

Ann leaves the doctor’s office and drops off her prescription. She calls Terry’s phone and lets him know about her health condition. Terry does not answer the phone. She leaves a voicemail. Days pass by and she still has not heard from Terry.

A week later, she received a call from Betsy stating that she was at Grady Hospital with Terry.

Betsy advised Ann that Terry had ingested laced cocaine and had trouble breathing. The police and fire department found him unconscious in a drug house. The ambulance brought him to the hospital. He has been in Grady’s ICU for two days.

Ann went to the hospital to see Terry.

Four days later, Terry died from a heart attack and drug overdose complications.

CHAPTER

19

SECRETS

Keisha invites Ashanti to a house party at a celebrity friend of hers home. Ashanti agrees to attend. She and Keisha go shopping at Lennox Mall to pick out dresses and shoes for the attire.

“It feels so good to be out shopping again. This Covid Virus slowed us all down. Oh. I am sorry girl. I didn’t mean to bring it up knowing about that situation you had with Comtrex.”

“It’s okay. I know what you mean. I am glad that the lawsuit is over. Thank God for having Tanya to represent my company.”

Keshia said, “She may be rude. But the Bitch is a bad attorney.”

“I know right. But I do not know how she got involved with Larry. A lawyer and a garbage man do not mix. I would think he was after my money. Plus, I would have to pay my own mortgage or be worried about if we could afford to take vacations outside of the country when I wanted too.”

“Ashanti, it’s not about his job. It is about how he treats her. But I feel you. He would have to own the company for me to marry him. But he is good for her. He might bring her controlling self-back down to earth.”

“Tanya had some good men in her life who were stockbrokers, doctors, and business owners. When I asked her why they broke up? She would always say, “They were always trying to tell me what to do, like I was a kid. They wanted me to be a stay-at-home spouse and be more submissive.”

“Ashanti, you see what I mean. They were making the same amount of money, but she did not want the man to be in charge in their relationship. She would rather be with a man who makes lesser money than her, so she has the upper hand in finances. This way she controls him in their household.”

“Girl. This dress is sexy. I am going to get it. I have some shoes at home and a Louis Vuitton purse that will match it.”

“That does look good on you girl. I like this one. The green and yellow bring out my eyes. The guys are going to be all up on me tonight. Girl, if Javon and William knew the fun that we are going to have tonight. They would not let us out for this party.”

“I’m sure all men be doing the same thing when they are around other women.”

“You are so right. I had to check William the other day when we were at the mall. He bent down and acted like he was tying his Nike shoe. This beautiful woman walked by us, and he turned his head towards her ass. I slapped the hell out of him in the face.”

Ashanti laughs at Keisha.

“Girl. We better get out of here or we will be shopping all day.”

“You are right.”

They walk towards the register and pay for their items. Ashanti and Keisha walk to their cars and drive home.

Three hours later, Keisha’s driver picks her up in a white limousine. She has the driver to transport her to Ashanti’s home. She calls Ashanti on the phone.

Ashanti answers, “Hello. Hey. I’m almost ready.”

“Okay. I should be there in ten minutes.”

“I will be ready. I’m just putting on some lip gloss and my shoes.”

Keisha arrives at Ashanti’s home. She comes outside on the porch. The driver opens the door for her.

“Hey girl. You are looking good. Sorry, I started drinking without you, but you know when a woman says they are almost ready. They really mean to give them twenty more minutes if they say five or ten minutes.”

“I am not mad with you. We are riding in style. Dam! This is nice. Who is this celebrity you know?”

“It’s a surprise. Let us just have fun and relax. Here is a glass. Let me get you some champaign.”

“I was wandering when you were going to offer me a drink.”

“We both got hands. But I will pour it right now, but when you drink that glass up, you are pouring the next glass for yourself.”

Both laugh at each other while drinking.

Thirty minutes later, they arrive in a neighborhood with large mansions. The driver lets them out the car. The host greets them at the entrance, and they walk into the home. The waiter walks over and offers them drinks and finger foods. The home is beautiful with Jacob Lawrence, Faith Ringgold, Pablo Picasso, and Leonardo da Vinci art paintings.

People are eating, drinking, smoking, and dancing with each other. Strippers and dancers are entertaining with D.Js. After dancing and having drinks, a tall, Latino man approaches Ashanti.

“Hello. I am Alex. I do not mean to interrupt you. But I have been watching you from a distance. And my friend told me to go speak with you.”

“Hi. I’m Ashanti.”

“I’m sorry for starring but you have the most beautiful eyes. I was wandering if you would like to take a walk with me. I promise I will not do anything inappropriate. The host is my cousin.”

“I’m actually here with a friend.”

Ashanti turns around to see where Keisha is located.

“Well. I do not see her. I suppose a walk would not hurt. Besides this home is beautiful.”

“Great! Let me show you around. My cousin and his wife had me paint these art pieces. The other paintings were shipped here.”

They walk upstairs to the art gallery and have more wine. Then, they walk to the balcony and garden area. Ashanti must use the restroom.

She asks, “Alex, where is the restroom?”

Alex replies, “There is a master bedroom two doors down the hall on the left. You can use the restroom there. I will wait here for you.”

Ashanti walks into the bedroom towards the bathroom. She knocks on the door. No one answers. She opens the bathroom door and observes Javon standing up naked with a male and female sucking his penis.

“Javon! What the hell?”

“Ashanti. It is not what you think. Stop it! She’s, my girlfriend.”

Darryl and Kasey say, “She’s cute. She should join us.”

Javon pulls his pants up and searches for his shirt and shoes.

Meanwhile, Ashanti walks out the bedroom and slams the door. She runs pass Alex downstairs and goes outside. Javon runs after her, but he cannot find her in the crowd. She calls Keisha on the phone. But no answer. Then, she asked the limousine driver to take her home.

She sits in the limousine while crying. Keisha calls her back. Ashanti explains that she needs to go home because of an emergency. Keisha comes outside to the limousine and the driver opens the door for her.

“Why are you crying? Did someone hurt you? Did someone die?”

“I caught Javon in the bathroom letting a man and woman stuck his dick.”

“What! Your Javon. Fine ass Javon. You must be kidding me. Another black male on the DL.”

“The one man I trusted. Good looking, educated, caring and financially secure. And now I find out none of it is true. I suspected it but I pushed the feelings aside.”

“You had intuition this man was gay or bisexual and you didn’t end the relationship.”

“I knew he was clean and neat always. I figured his mom taught him well. He has good hygiene. He kept his nails clean, his teeth are nice, his breathe is always fresh, he dresses nice, his body is ripped with muscles, and his haircut is always on point.”

“Now his neatness does not always mean he is gay, but what you saw tonight, is proof of him being bisexual. I am so sorry girl. I really liked him for you. But now you know the truth and you must be examined for diseases.”

“I know. I am scared. We used protection but I have been oral with him.”

“Have you had sexual intercourse ever while being unprotected? I know you sucked his privates, but has he ever ejaculated in you? I do not mean to be straight forward with you, but the doctor is going to ask you.”

“Once, he forgot to put on a condom, but he stopped after maybe five minutes of being inside of me. We were in the moment after the stress from the lawsuits. It never happened again where he did not use a condom.”

“How long ago was it without the condom, when he pulled out of you?”

“A long time ago. I went to the doctor and had blood work done. I was negative for all STD’s. But I am concerned about the oral aspect of our sexual life. I do not do it much, but on some special occasions I have done it to him.”

“Girl, I never go down on my man or ride him without a condom. I do not care if he says he likes it raw in my mouth or pussy. You end up swallowing cum and catching all kinds of diseases. People need to think about protecting themselves as well when going down on each other. Some stuff a pill or shot will not cure.”

“I know I will be at Kaiser in the morning for blood work.

“So, how long ago was it for the oral sex?”

“I think about three weeks ago. I am not exactly sure. But I have not had sex in almost two weeks.”

“Two weeks no sex. Most men want sex all the time. They will not wait to have sex. He has been getting it elsewhere. When I walk by peanut ass, he wants to tap this ass immediately.”

Ashanti laughs at her.

“I was just checking because I know you had some of my drink about a month ago. I do not want to find out I got something from you all. Is he the only one you have been giving head too?”

“Really Keisha! I could be dying and you joking.”

“Look! I am trying to take the stress off you and me. I could be dying. You and him around here sucking without protection. And he got two people sucking him. I am going in the morning with you to Kaiser. I need to be checked out.”

The driver drops both ladies off at home.

The next day, both ladies arrive at Kaiser and have HIV/AIDS test. They give blood specimens to check for any STDs and viruses. Both receive their test back and are HIV/AIDS negative.

Both ladies laugh and cry at the same time.

“Girl. You dodged a bullet this time. I suggest you practice abstinence for a while and definitely stop oral sex or use a condom for your mouth.”

“Thanks for coming with me. Your jokes helped me think about life and it relieved a little stress off me.

“I came for both of us. Condoms are not 100 percent, but they are good. Now we can celebrate. Disease free. Now what are you going to do about Javon? You know you can expect a visit from him soon.”

“He called me last night, but I did not answer the phone. Our relationship is over. I hate that he put my life in danger. I do not know how long he has been cheating on me.”

“I agree with your decision, but some women keep the man around and think DL is just a phase. Women believe it is their fault men cheat on them. They feel this way because they would not perform most erotic sexual acts on their spouses. This has caused so many women to contract HIV and full-blown AIDS.”

“I do not play with my life. I want a man who is Godly and straight. If you are gay and/or attracted to both sexes please leave me alone. Give me the opportunity to choose my lifestyle. And if you love someone, you will not endanger their life by having sex with persons other than yourselves.”

“I know that’s right. But I am hungry. Where do you want to eat? Big Daddy’s and This Is It Restaurants are in this area.”

Both are good. But who has the best peach cobbler and dressing?”

“Let’s just go by both and support our folks.”

Both ladies drive away from Kaiser parking lot. 

DAVID

David, the one I genuinely loved was a perfect man. We met through his niece, Kerri while at Wal-Mart. When I first saw him, I said, “Dam, he is fine.” I told him my name was Rachel. He asked me out and I decided that I should accept his invitation to dinner. He shook my hand and kissed it. We exchanged numbers and departed from each other.

On our date, we talked about our careers, hobbies, and if we had any children. Neither of us had children or had been married. David advised that he was a Deputy Sheriff, and I told him I was a lawyer.

David and I dated for about two years before we decided to move in with each other. I sold my home and moved in with him.

Why did I do this?

Everyone, if you are in a relationship and not married. Try not to shack up and move in with your mate. Why? Because if they get mad with you and you are not on the lease, they can call the police and put you out.

Now David did not put me out, but I always found myself feeling like it was his home and not mine. He would always complain about me being in the bathroom too long or me eating too many of his snacks. Utility bills drove him crazy because the bills were higher. He also did not want me to flush the toilet after I had urinated because it made the water bill high. He complained so much that I thought he had PMS.

SEX

Even though we argued at times, we always made up. The sex was so good that I wanted it all night. David made me feel alive again. I never met a man that could please me so well orally. It was like he was friends with my vagina.

My blood stimulated my pussy as soon as he touched my body with his strong large hands. I remember one time David picked me up and carried me outside in the backyard while kissing me and licking my clitoris. He already had a table lined up with whip cream, strawberries, cherries, and chocolate.

He made me lay on the table naked as he sprayed me and ate me out from back and front. I could only look up at the skies and see the stars. I screamed like a dog in heat. I know the neighbors must have heard me, but David did not care until I screamed aloud and said his name.

I also returned a favor and let him enjoy the hot chocolate poured on his nuts and long brown penis. He enjoyed me sucking his head in a slow motion with my mouth opened wide as he deep throated me. I did not stop until he released his juices and fell to the ground. I realized that sex outside brings out sexual excitement and helps relationships. But be discrete about it.

PROPOSAL

After a night of love making and sexual gratification, David got on his knees and asked me to marry him. I immediately said, “Yes.”

He placed the ten-carat diamond ring on my hand.

He said, “I love you, Rachel.”

We hugged and kissed each other.

Eight months later, we got married at the Chapel Hill Baptist Church. It was so beautiful. My dad paid for all expenses. Our colors were purple, gold, and black. Everyone looked great.

My sister, Angela caught the bouquet at the reception, but it did not matter because she was an anti-wedding type of woman. She believed only in spiritual connections and there was a no need to waste money on a wedding.

MARRIAGE LIFE

Marriage was cool. David and I would go out every weekend. We would dance at our favorite restaurant. He liked going to Le Juan’s Mexican restaurant. They had the best tacos, burritos, and margaritas. He would order so much food.

I would have to make him slow down when he was eating. He would always tease me by sticking out his tongue and curling it, just to make me smile. It made me think about how well he pleased me orally in bed. I would get wet in the panties while sitting at the restaurant. We joked about men with big feet, had big penises, so they could please women in bed.

PREGNANCY

After a year into our marriage, I found out I was pregnant. I was not happy at first. Only because of my body would change and I did not know how David would respond to the stretch marks after birth. I did not want to gain weight because it is hard to lose pounds.

David was so excited. He wanted to go out and buy clothes. Every day he brought home classical music, toys, and books for the baby. He had me play the recording of Mozart and other classical music composers’ songs on my stomach every night.

CHANGE

Five months into my pregnancy, David started to change as a husband. He was not himself. He stopped taking me out to dinner. He was staying out late at night and getting drunk.

I asked him, “David, what’s going on with you? We are not communicating the same?”

He said, “You need to eat healthier. You have gained weight. I know you are pregnant, but you still can-do exercises to keep your weight down.”

His comments hurt me, but he was right. I knew I had gained twenty pounds. I craved certain snacks like snickers, hotdogs, cookies, and ice cream. I told him I would start working out more at the gym. I asked him to come with me. He declined to go to exercise with me. He was always too busy.

ARGUMENTS

David and I will argue every day about my weight and him not being affectionate towards me. Sometimes, he would call me “Fat Pig.” And I would call him, “Bald headed, stupid ass man or minute man.” He would get upset and leave the house for three days.

I would be worried about him, so I would call his job. I would speak with the receptionist. And she told me he was at work. I left messages for him, but he did not call me back. I talked to my dad and best friend about my relationship. Both told me that David may be stressed out about his finances and scared of raising a child. But they did not condone him calling me names.

We tried counseling but it did not work. We would yell at each other. He would leave out of the session. He would not show up for sessions. I knew our marriage was in trouble.

When one person is trying to save the marriage and the other one stops, only God can bring you back together.

BIRTH

My water broke and I went into labor. I called my friend, Paula because David was not around. He also did not answer his phone. I had heard rumors he was sleeping with other women. Paula drove me to Piedmont Hospital.

She was with me through my whole pregnancy. Four hours after being in labor pain, I delivered a healthy baby boy. I named him, David Kyle Jr.

Paula tried to make me feel better about David being MIA for his first son’s birth. She kept making up excuses for David.

She kept stating, “Maybe he is in a meeting. He might have been in an accident. Do not stress yourself out about him. You must care for this handsome baby boy.”

She was right. My pain briefly went away. I did not think much about David. He came to the hospital the next day. I did not argue with him. I just let him hold his son. He was crying as he held Jr. He apologized to me for not being at the birth.

David and I drove home together with our son. Paula, my dad, my sister, and Kayla trailed us home. Things were much better for about a month. We started to talk more and spend time together. But later I found out that David had another baby on the way. He also started to use drugs.

One day I came back from the grocery store to smell marijuana on my baby’s clothes. I confronted him about it. He became upset and blew smoke into my son’s face. I pushed him. And I said, “Do not do that in front of our son.”

He punched me in the face and pushed me down. I slapped him and he held my arms. I kicked him in his nuts. Then, I grabbed Junior and ran outside to my car. I called the police while driving away.

David went to jail. He must also go to anger management classes. His job suspended him for a month. I filed for divorce and moved in with Paula.

The judge allowed David supervised visits with our son every other weekend for eight hours. He had to receive drug screenings once a month to ensure our son was in a drug free environment.

MARLO

After being divorced for three years, I started dating again. I met Marlo. He was a tall and sexy attorney. I met him in the hallway of Fulton County courthouse. He was wearing a black and gray Armani suit.

His face was smooth like a baby’s cheeks. He had brown, green, and hazel eyes. And he had a body and smile like the model, Tyson. We dated for about six months and things got serious. We talked about getting married.

Marlo had a son as well. He and his ex-girlfriend, Layla had broken up, and he had sole custody of his son, due to her meth addiction. My son and Kyle got along well together. They attended the same elementary school. Kyle was respectful for an eight-year-old. He was very well mannered.

PLAYER

Marlo called me up to confirm meeting up with him for dinner at Justin’s Restaurant. I told him to come to my home for dinner. He agreed to cancel Justin’s reservations.

When he arrived, I pretended I wanted sex from him. I wanted to get him aroused and do kinky stuff with him. He was a freak in bed. He was always down for doing the nastiest things. He is opened-minded, with sex.

First, I undressed him while he was blind-folded. I handcuffed him to the bed and pulled out my toys. He was so excited. I used my whip rubbing it gently between his legs on his penis while talking nasty to him.

Marlo became aroused and his penis sprang out like a flat tire filled with air. He kept asking me to give him head. I kept delaying his pleasure request. I pulled out my belt and started to beat him all over his body. I video recorded him.

He yelled out, “Dam baby. That hurts. You are really being ruff with me. I am not a slave now.”

I beat him harder and said to him, “Marlo, why do you lie so much?”

He replied, “Rachel. Baby, what are you talking about? Is this a part of role play? If not, hurry up and release me from these handcuffs!”

I continued to hit him more.

He yelled, “Got dam girl. Let me up!”

I hit him again. And he screamed out. “Ouch! Let me loose

woman!”

I said, “Marlo. Why did you lie to me? You said that you were not married. I found out that your wife lives with your mother. And you and her share joint custody of your son.”

Your wife and mother said, “You are still sleeping with your wife and another woman named, Tisha.”

Marlo said, “I’m sorry Rachel. I did not mean to hurt you. It is complicated. My wife and I have an open relationship. So, you do not have to worry about her.”

I told Marlo that I am not sharing my man with anyone. I released him from the handcuffs, and he put on his clothes. When he left my home and went out to his truck. He noticed a brick thrown through his Range Rover rear window.

The next day I provided his wife with the video tape of his confession of cheating but stating it was an open marriage. I talked to my friend, Paula about the incident. Paula told me that I should Change Love Lanes to the other side. She had experimented with successful women and enjoyed their company.

She said, “Women know how to please you better and we connect on a higher emotional level than men and we are much more affectionate in bed than men.”

I thought to myself, she might be right. Then, I thought about I would have to be licking pussy. I did not think I could do it. I could have the woman lick me but that would not be right. Her pleasing me and me not pleasing her would be unfair. I decided to just spend time alone and wait on God.

INCOME TAX

Tanya contacts the Department of Revenue regarding her state income tax refund. The Call Center Operator answers the phone.

“Good afternoon. Thank you for contacting the Department of Revenue. I am Ms. Warren. Who do I have the pleasure of speaking too, this afternoon?”

“Hi Mrs. Warren. This is Tanya Okapi. I am calling about my state refund. I have already received my federal income tax refund, but I was wandering why my state refund is not in my account.”

“No problem. I can certainly help with checking on that information for you. Mrs. Okapi. Please verify your social security number, date of birth and street address?”

“SSN 01231966 and 1919 Lanier Lane”

“Thank you so much. I see your information. You filed joint taxes with your husband. Are you able to verify his name, DOB, and address.?”

‘Yes. Larry Okapi. DOB 082173 same address on Lanier Lane.”

“It appears that your refund of $15,731.00 was sent to DHS the Child Support Division.”

“Say, what? I do not have any children and nor does Larry. There must be a mistake or something. Do you have a number for them? I am going to call them as soon as I get off the phone with you.”

“Yes mam. I can look the number up for you. It is 404-613-0000.

“Thank you. I cannot believe this. Let me call my husband. This is some BS.”

“Mrs. Okapi. Usually, when a person owes the state back child support, the government will send it to Department of Human Services Child Support Division. DHS will distribute it to the caregiver of the child. This also occurs when you file jointly income taxes with your spouse, and they have defaulted on their Student Loans. (IRS) can take all your refunds and they can garnish your wages from your payroll paycheck.

“Thank you. I knew about student loans and child support, but we do not have any children. This is what is shocking to me. Well. Let me call them.”

“Thank you for calling the Department of Revenue. May the rest of your day be great. Good- Bye.”

“Bye.”

“Jackie. I see you got another wife who is unaware of her husband’s past debt. I had a nurse call last week because she did not receive her state refund. It was a refund for $6,000. DHS took her check too. That’s why I file my taxes separate all the time.”

“True that. You just do not know everybody these days. Well. Let me get ready for my appointment. Mary, I will see you tomorrow.”

“Okay. Be safe. Let me go answer these phones. We got two hundred calls pending in the queue. These folks want their state tax refunds.”

Tanya calls DHS but the line is busy. Then, she calls Larry. Larry answers the phone.

“Hey baby. What’s up?”

“Listen. I just got off the phone with the Department of Revenue about our refund. And they told me that DHS Child Support took our refund. I told the lady it must be a mistake because I do not have kids and nor does my husband. I called DHS but the line was busy. I have not been able to contact them. We may need to go to their office.”

“Baby. We do not need to go there. I need to tell you something. Where are you? Are you sitting down?”

“Yeah. I am at the house in my office. But what do you need to say?”

“Baby. Remember when we had separated years ago, and I slept with one lady.”

“Yes. I remember. But what does that have to do with what is going on with our state tax refund and DHS?”

“Don’t be mad, but four months ago, I got a call from DHS to do a DNA test for a young lady that is six years old. I found out; she is my daughter. Her mother took me down for child support about four months ago, when she learned I worked for the city government and at the strip club. So, I have been working overtime and paying out $300 from my dancing money and $300 from our joint checking account to DHS.”

“Oh. So, you got a daughter and have known about it for four months. And you did not say anything. They took over $15,000 from us to give to your baby mama. And you knew dam well you had been paying the $300 for child support out our account but lied about helping your sister. You Mother Fucker!”

“I did not know how to tell you. It was shocking news to me. I have not seen this child in six years. I just found out. I did not want you to leave me. We were broken up when I slept with Angelica.”

“I do not trust you. You have lied in this relationship. You had time to tell me four months ago. We went to counseling sessions and you lied. I want you out of my home and a divorce. I will not be caring for your child from another woman.”

“I’m sorry. I made a mistake.”

Tanya hangs up the phone and throws a glass against the wall. She packs Larry’s items into two suitcases. She calls her brother up to come over and change the door locks. Larry’s clothes are place outside by the garage.

The next day she files for a divorce.

TIMING

Pastor James and Debbie have been married for sixteen months. Debbie became pregnant in the fourth month of marriage. They share a three-month-old baby boy, Zaire. He attends Kids Care Day Care while his parents’ work.

Zaire was born two months premature and has had issues with his growth. He also had liver complications at birth.

One afternoon, the infant childcare worker noticed Zaire was gasping and appeared to have trouble breathing. His skin was pale, and he had a rash as well. She had the front desk call 911.

The ambulance arrived and took him to CHOA at Grady Hospital. He is in NICU. His parents received a call from the daycare. And they rushed to the hospital. Pastor James car breaks down while in route to the hospital. He catches a ride with Javon’s cousin, Keith.

Dr. Kutz talks to Zaire’s parents about having a blood transfusion. He also speaks with them about Zaire’s liver complications related to him being born premature. He asks Pastor James to give blood.

Four hours later, Dr. Kutz comes into the waiting room and speaks with Debbie while Pastor James is getting coffee. Keith sees a friend of his in the hallway and starts to conversate with him.

“Mrs. Azuri. We completed the blood sample and Mr. Azuri’s blood does not match. There is no way he could be the father. We completed a DNA test already. Is there possible another father?”

“Dr. Kutz, can we talk privately in your office?”

“Sure.”

“I had an affair when I was about three or four months pregnant. But I used protection. Keith may be the father of Zaire, but I have not told him.”

“Are you able to reach Keith? It is a matter of life or death if he does not improve. We need that blood today. I suggest you let your husband know what is going on. I can only let him know that Zaire’s body is not accepting his blood.”

“Thank you, Dr. Kutz.”

Dr. Kutz leaves the office while Debbie calls Keith on the phone. Keith answers his phone.

“Excuse me man. I am receiving a call. Let me take this.”

He walks away from his friends, down the hallway, and answers the phone.

“Hey D. What is going on? How is the baby doing?”

“Not good. Dr. Kutz said, “Zaire needs the blood transfusion, or he could die.”

“What? But James just gave blood, so he should be fine.”

“Do you remember when I first got married and we slept together?”

“Yes. I remember. But what does this have to do with Zaire and James?”

Debbie starts to cry on the phone.

“Keith. Zaire is your son because Dr. Kutz just stated to me that Zaire’s DNA does not match James. He is incompatible with Zaire for the blood transfusion.”

“But we used protection. Are you sure Zaire is mine?”

“I only slept with you. No other men. Can you give blood today? I will let Dr. Kutz know, but James cannot find out this way.”

“Sure. Anything for Zaire. Let me know where to go.”

“Dr. Kutz just came back in the office. I will let you know where to go for the blood work. Thank you, Keith.”

“No problem. It’s a good thing I picked up James and brought him to the hospital.”

“Yes. Thank God.”

Debbie hangs up the phone. She advises Dr. Kutz that Keith will give blood.

Keith meets with the phlebotomist in the lab area and gives blood. Two hours later, he is a match, and his DNA matches at a probability of 99 percent that Zaire is Keith’s son. The blood transfusion goes well.

Dr. Kutz meets James and Debbie in the waiting room.

“Everything went well. He may need blood down the road, but he is stable right now. We will continue to monitor him. Mr. Azuri, I must let you know that your blood type did not match but we had an anonymous donor who matched with Zaire. In rare cases a father’s blood type genetics will not match. But your blood type was in this case.

Keith walks back in the waiting room.

“Hey. How is Zaire?”

Debbie and James both say, “Much better. Thanks to an anonymous blood donor.”

“That is good. Well. I must leave. Keep me updated. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Thanks man. I appreciate the ride and you staying with us.”

“No problem.”

Debbie hugs Keith before he leaves the hospital.

Zaire remains in the hospital NICU. He is doing well. His blood work is good along with his vital signs. He is drinking his bottles and is highly active. Dr. Kutz stated, “Zaire should be discharged in a few weeks.”

SERMON OF THE WEEK

Deacon Wayne is about to prepare for his sermon but receives a visit from Beverly two hours before church service. He is black mailed by Beverly because of his involvement in stealing money from the church accounts. She received information from the church secretary, Ms. Jones.

“I knew you were always slick and money hungry, Wayne. But stealing from the church, so you could open your own business is lower than spitting in a person’s face. Richard and the church trusted you. I trusted you.”

“I did it so I could help the church out too. I was going to use the restaurant profits to help with the ministry. It was not like I took millions.”

“Stealing one penny is too much. Wayne, you could have asked me for the money instead of stealing. There is always a paper trail to the money when books do not add up and when you have nosey staff.”

“All the work I do for the church is never rewarded. The church gives thousands of dollars for someone to come speak to our congregation and they cannot pay me $500 when I preach. That is BS and you know it.”

“Wow! Wayne, I thought you served God and his people. But it seems like Satan has snared you into a trap. You are just as crooked as the average person not of the cloth. But anyway, enough about you stealing. I have something for you.”

Beverly hands Deacon Wayne a tan envelope.

“What is this?”

“It’s two videos that I want you to play during your sermon today. Have your video producer play them right after ushers pick up tithes and offerings. Then, you can preach your sermon.”

“What type of videos are these? Usually, our video on the projector relates to our church message. You do not know my message for today’s service.

“Well. Today, we are doing it in an untraditional manner. The congregation will definitely want to watch the videos.”

“What’s on the videos?”

“Don’t worry about what is on them. Just know it will change lives.”

“Okay. I will play them. Now what about our situation with the money.”

“No worries. After you do this favor, I will give the church back what you stole. Per the church’s secretary, $150,000 should cover anything you invested in your restaurant.

An hour passes, the congregation and staff have arrived in the parking lot and church lobby. Everyone takes their seats in the church. Sister Mary has read the church announcements. Then, the choir sings, “Trouble Don’t Last Always and Won’t He Do It.” The audience is on their feet feeling the spirit of God in the church.

Pastor Richard is sitting in a wheelchair on the first row with his wife, Monica. Meanwhile, Debbie and Pastor James are on the second row in the church, sitting near Claire and Kerri.

Deacon Wayne stands up to the podium.

“Alright. All right. You can do better than that. Everyone standup! Stand to your feet. If God has been good to you and has healed you, shout out, “God is good!”

The congregation stands up and shouts out “Good is good! Yes. He Is. God has been good to me. Amen.”

“It’s giving time church. It is giving time. All ye bring your first fruits to the storehouse, so that it may be pressed down, shaken over, and it overflows back to you. You do know that you cannot give God more than he gives to you. This is because God is the owner and giver of everything.”

The ushers pass down the tithes and offering baskets to each row for the people to give. Everyone has given their gifts to the church.

Deacan Wayne prays over the gifts from the congregation after the ushers placed them on the altar.

“God. Thank you for these tithes and offerings brought to the storehouse. We ask that you bless those who gave generously and for those who gave what they only had. For you are the giver and knows what we can give and what we are not able to give. We thank you for all the blessings you have given us today and we thank you in advance for what you will do for us in the future in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

The church says, “Amen.”

“Before I give my sermon for today. I want to thank the church for allowing me to speak the word of God today.”

The church screams. “You’re welcome.”

“And I also want to acknowledge Pastor Richard, Pastor James Azuri and the rest of the Azuri family for caring about God’s people more than themselves.”

The congregation and Azuri family standup and say, “Thank You.”

Then, they sit down to hear the word of God.

Charles, will you put both screens up with our scriptural references for those who did not bring their bible to church?”

“Yes sir. They are ready for you.”

“My subject for today is “The Trap of the Devil Is Real.”

The congregation makes noise, ‘Preach Deacon Wayne. For Sure. Yes. He Is!”

“Has anyone but me ever been trapped by the devil? We know what is right, but we do what is wrong anyway.”

The congregation makes more noise, “Yes. I have been there, preach Deacon.”

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good.

-Romans 7:15-16 NIV

I did nothing wrong, but they tried to trap me. For no reason at all, they dug a pit to catch me. So let them fall into their own traps. Let them stumble into their own nets. Let some unknown danger catch them.

-Psalms 35:7-8 ERV

Scripture appears on the two projector screens but suddenly a video of Claire having oral sex with Officer Sydney in her bedroom is on one screen projector. And the other screen has a video of Pastor Richard and Beverly having sex at her home.

Chaos and commotion occur at the church. Deacon Wayne looks at the video projector screen and shouts, “Charles, turn this off now!”

Pastor Richard falls out his wheelchair onto the floor. The deacons, Pastor James, and ushers assist with getting him back into his wheelchair.

Kerri slaps Claire in the face and rushes out the church. Monica starts to cry and places her hand over her face as she exits out her seat. Claire runs after Kerri.

Beverly and Sydney both watch the family in chaos as they sit on the last row in the church in a mischievous manner.

“Everyone due to unforeseen circumstances, church is dismissed. We will resume services on next Sunday. Please exit the church. Thank You.

With each body flesh, soul, and spirit on earth, mankind is always Changing Love Lanes.

– G.J. Warren

“FLUID SEXUALITY”

Sexual fluidity is one or more changes in sexuality or sexual orientation. Fluid is a form of gender identity or gender expression, rather than a sexual orientation. Genders are masculine, feminine, intersex, Trans, Non-Conforming, neuter, and common. Children are born with a sexual orientation. They attract whom they feel a connection too.

It is not by accident that God has created interesting people. God knew what he was doing when he made humans explore different paths of sexual orientations.

But because the bible expresses abomination of same sex persons, sleeping with each other, it is unacceptable in society.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender (LGBTQIA) people are deprived rights because of who they genuinely love in public. Heterosexuals do not understand the reason, LGBTQIA are with same sex gender. God does not give them an answer. And for that reason, people express that being gay is “an evil spirit from the devil.”

Pastors, family, teachers, friends, employers, and co-workers judge them by how they dress, how they talk, how they behave, and how they express themselves in a free manner. This leads gay persons to leave the church, sue their employers, and to disconnect with having loving relationships with family and friends.

God knew this would happen. This is the reason civil and equal rights are in place. God protects everything he has made not just heterosexuals. God made everyone.

Remember, just because you do not understand why a person is the way they are. It does not mean you get to demean them, abuse them, criticize them, discriminate against them, make them feel unwanted, deny them equal rights and employment opportunities. Heterosexuals do not get to judge anyone. LGBTQIA gay people do not get to change heterosexuals into what they are or make them behave as they do.

VARIETY OF DIFFERENCES

God made a variety of differences in his creations. Heterosexuals, you do not get to choose who a gay person falls in love with. You cannot make the gay person go back in a closet and be ashamed of themselves. Heterosexuals must realize that God does not write everything down for you to know about his people. Not everything about humans is in the bible as scripture.

Man wrote the bible, to benefit his lifestyle. Society and scholars of the bible have spoken about books of the bible that are missing. The bible is a mystery.

HISTORY VS NEW WORLD

If society would have remained doing the same things, in the same period of the bible, we would not have a technological world. There would be slavery and rules to prevent women from being a pastor or evangelist. Fashion would be old robes and dresses. Women would not be wearing pant suits or working on jobs. Women would not be able to vote.

People would kill folk and use the metaphor eye for an eye, to harm persons who hurt them. There would be no tattoos or piercings on the body allowed. Everyone would be in hell.

Thus, God made so many provisions for humans because he knew he gave us free will to live our lives. But God also gave consequences if we did not line up with his purpose.

PROVISION

God gave man the right to divorce his wife. Because he knew men were unfaithful and desired multiple women. Men had more than one wife. Prostitutes were in the bible along with concubines for kings and rich men and the adulterous men.

He said to them. “Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.

-Matthew 19:8, ESV

The bible speaks on Jacob being married to two sisters Rachel and Leah. Because Rachel was barren, and jealous of Leah giving birth to three sons, she allowed her servant, Bilah to have intercourse with Jacob.

But she said to her, “wasn’t it enough that you took away my husband? Will you take my son’s mandrakes too? Very well, “Rachel said, “he can sleep with you tonight in return for your son’s mandrakes.”

-Genesis 30:15, NLV

Mandrakes is a mayapple and orange berry from a flower grown in Mediterranean.

When I read the bible and saw stories and scriptures where sisters, Leah and Rachel are married to Jacob, but allowed their husband to sleep with concubines. This is more dramatic and shocking to me than having gay people enjoy their life with someone they love without violating their marital vows. Jacob slept with the female servants of both his wives. He had permission to cheat.

Heterosexuals, judge LGBQTIA communities because they want “the same happiness and equal rights as they have.” They cannot see why same sex people want to be married. But they should realize gay people want the right to adopt, they want the rights to military acceptance, they want the right to medical benefits for partners, and they want rights to employment promotions.

Homosexuals are not concerned with who heterosexuals have in their bed. They just want the same opportunity to live freely. They are not trying to steal or seduce straight females and straight males. They typically want someone with the same attraction to love them.

Heterosexuals imagine if your civil rights are gone. Think about not having the right to sleep with your spouse or girlfriend because they had a mark on their body. Imagine yourself qualified for a job position, but the company hired someone less qualified who was gay.

How would you feel when you have worked hard on your job for years and you cannot take leave with pay? Imagine you no longer have the right to marry your spouse because she is not gay. If heterosexuals would apply this mindset, I believe they would be in less fear of the LGBTQIA community.

MAN WRITTEN WRONG TEACHINGS

It is wrong for the bible to state to the slave, not to run away but to obey his master and be obedient when treated bad. Ephesians 6:5-8, NLV.

This is not love. Humans should not condone beating and raping slave men and women for their benefit of prosperity. And it was wrong to have slaves work for free and not receive payment. Do you really think God wanted this to happen? Do you think God wanted a slave, not know how to read, and write? Do you think God wanted slaves beaten or killed? Do you think God wanted human rights taken away from gay people based on who they slept with?

No because God gives free will to be yourself and love is the greatest thing in this life. But non-slave families benefited from slavery. God allows marriage and would rather you marry than lust and have multiple partners. So, all humans are equal let them marry whom they want to marry.

Although the bible has great teachings of miracles and preach love. Society has done the opposite and imposes restrictions on God’s children. It has brain washed society and limited people from being who they really are and how God created them. It is for profit and used to damage people self-esteem.

IGNORANCE

I was speaking with a colleague of mine and associate. They were church goers and Christians. One said, “If it wasn’t for men sleeping with other men, this Aids disease would not exist.”

I said, “Do you know that heterosexuals, married couples, athletes, anti-gay leaders and pastors are the main people having sex without condoms, who give their partners HIV and AIDS?

I said, “Ask yourself this question. Who is my spouse sleeping with to make me have a deadly disease or any STD? And why are they sleeping with the same sex?”

If Down Low people were not ashamed and condemned by the teachings in the bible. They would be true to themselves. Free will would exist. Straight men and straight women would not be on the DL and pretend to be straight. They would not marry someone they did not genuinely love.

But the church pastors, parents, family, and politicians put too much pressure on them to conform to a heterosexual lifestyle.

Therefore, they sneak around in hotels and at gay bars to be free.

Gay children and adults are self-injurious and suicidal because of bible teachings of them going to hell and that God does not approve of them. We need to stop telling people they are going to hell. But tell them to protect themselves and love each other when they are sexually active. Because truly nobody knows where they are going when we die. But we hope it is a heaven as the bible stated to us.

GOD LOVES & CREATED ALL THINGS

Since God made Satan and let him out every thousand years. Revelations 20 7-10, NIV and Job 1:7 ESV. God is love and not hate. But the consequences come when you lie to God, when you lie to your spouse or partner, and when you have hatred towards others and act it out. Genesis 3:19 “Be humble and never think you are better than anyone else.”

When you do not protect the temple and choose partners who have sex with other people. This is what causes AIDs and HIV. It does not matter whether you are straight or gay. Having sex without protection with multiple people places you at risk of contracting all diseases. Do not take away somebody’s human rights because of them having sex with same sex gender or because you do not like the color of their skin.

Remember the bible stated, Romans 3:10 ESV, “Not one of us is righteous.”

And James 3:1 CSB “Not many should become teachers, my brothers, because you know we will receive a stricter judgment.” So be careful how you treat all of God’s children even if you hate with whom they are sleeping.

Micah 6:8 ESV “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”

UNEQUAL & UNJUST

About six years ago, I remember a co-worker of mine spoke to me about how executives would comment on her wearing men’s attire. She wore a suit, a tie and men’s dress shoes. She had a short low cut hair style like a male. DT did her job well and was up for a supervisor position.

However, she did not receive the promotion because of how she dressed. The agency believed her image would have a negative impact on their company’s business. They did not want her meeting with perspective clients, dressed as a male, but in a female body.

She eventually filed a lawsuit for discrimination. She won $500,000 settlement based on harassment, hostile work environment, retaliation, and discrimination based on her being gay (sexual orientation). She was later issued an apology from the CEO and given the job as a supervisor.

Currently, she works as trainer. She trains new and current employees about Workplace Harassment and Discrimination.

John 7:24 ESV. “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

John 8:7 ESV. “And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.”

Luke 6:31 ESV. “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

EDUCATION

Remember, LGBTQIA communities are not going away. They are all around you working jobs. They want the freedom to live as you. They are not abnormal or have wicked spirits in them.

They are human beings. You will see them in your families as the world evolves. Just as you live because God has a purpose for you, so do they.

Isaiah 66:2 NLT. “My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the Lord, have spoken! I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word.”

Jeremiah 1:5 ESV. “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. And before you were born, I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

THE UNKNOWN MYSTERY

God has designed for you to have problems. And sometimes, you will receive the solutions immediately or not. But God always reveals the answer. He does not reveal it as you would like him to do so, but he shows it in stages.

2 Corinthians 12:7-9, NKJV. “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord Three times that it might depart from me. And he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Each of us have something within us that reminds us that we belong to God. We have habits or things we do which people say are not of God. We have medical health problems we want healed but God does not heal you.

Therefore, we want God to remove it from us. We ask God to take it away, but he does not because it is our connection to God. It is like a signature, trademark, or birthmark that God placed in us before we were born.

THORN

The thorn placed within your flesh humbles you. It makes sure that you do not think you are above others. 2 Corinthians 12:7-9.

The thorn is pain and suffering that you endure within and from others. It is what God will use in you to exalt him more. It draws you more to God. It is the wounds from your suffering and pain that God uses as he rebirths and blesses you. Wounds equals resurrection, reconnection, and blessings with God.

John 15:18:19 ESV. “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world love, you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates.”

LGBTQIA are people with differences. I want to let you know that your wounds and sufferings from within and hate from others, is your trademark from God. It lets you know you belong to God. Therefore, it is called, “gender identity.” God identifies you, and he knows you by your LGBTQIA characteristic trademark from him.

LOVE SCRIPTURES

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

-1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

-Romans 12:10 NIV

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

-1 Peter 4:8 NIV

If you would like to read part II of Changing Love Lanes “Fluid Sexuality” book and what happens next. Please contact author Gloria J. Warren at email at [email protected].

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