One Request Ruin My Life

Chapter 1

The Discovery

Destiny Wave was a very outstanding girl in school ,she performed very well academic wise and she always help others who needs help. I know her to be very kind ,soft spoken ,god fearing ,stylish and selfless .She would go out of her way to make others day better but no-one could see the pain in her eyes .Just me ,of course ;you maybe wondering who am I, well I'm very close to her yet so far because she don't see me .I've been observing her for a while now and I can tell she's very attentive but she still doesn't notice me .

She seems like an ordinary girl but I can tell something is extra ordinary about her. It's just her whole demeanor, she just don't seems normal as it is. Destiny always get her self involved in school related activities but she is very quiet outside of that. Rumors have it to say she is socially awkward but I don't see it. She articulates herself very well to me.

She was in 10th grade when Jake first met her and he could tell she's one serious girl. She doesn't stand for stupidity at all. He sees her everyday but she never yet looks at him. They have classes together but never get to sit beside each other. He has always wanted to know what's it like being friends with someone like Destiny. You would think she's a mean girl because of how serious she looks but no, she's the kindest and humblest person one could ever meet and when she smiles, oh my, she lights up the entire room.

Everyone knows her to be this brilliant girl but as far as it goes beyond school, nobody really knows her because she's never been seen at a party or after school activities. She's pretty mysterious because she loves music and dancing based on how she describes her hobbies in class but yet you will never see her at a party or after school jam.

Destiny is one of the first persons if not the first to go through the school gate when school is dismissed. Jake wondered why she's just always in a hurry to get home.

" Mhmm", I wonder if she have a secret life outside that quiet school girl life. I wonder if she's in some kind of trouble as to why when school is dismissed she never hang out with friends. She heads straight home without a tarry. If anyone would find out, it would be me," said Jake in his head.

Mr. James is the teacher they normally have on Friday afternoons and this afternoon Jake promised himself to follow Destiny to see where she's headed. Mr. James was teaching class but all was on Jake's mind was finding out if Destiny is in trouble so he couldn't wait for 2:30 for school to be dismissed.

-Bell rings

"Yes school is finally dismissed," said Jake in his mind.

Mr. James gave them an assignment sheet and told them to enjoy their weekend. Jake normally stick around after school to chill with his friends and partake in after school extracurricular activities such as music and football. This is definitely not norm for Jake to just leave school after dismissal without even telling his friends bye. As soon as Destiny left the classroom, Jake left behind her. His motive was to follow her without her noticing but to his surprise she stopped and sat under a tree. It's like she knows something was up. She was there sitting as if she was waiting for someone, but I don't know her to have any friends and boys are intimidated by her so they were scared to approach her. Jake's patience was running out and he was trying to figure out his next move. He stands at a distance from her where she wouldn't notice him and waited for some time until he saw a shiny black BMW drive up right where she was sitting.

"Who could it be, that's not her parent's car, I've never seen them driving a BMW, so who could it be," said Jake curiously

At that point his mind was going off because all the windows were up so he couldn't see much, anyways she got up and got in the front seat. The car was there for about one minute and then it drove off. He was disappointed because he couldn't get to follow her but he's determined to find out if she's in some trouble. Mystery man is the city's most notorious drug dealer and he is known to prey on young girls to get them to transport drugs for him since authorities wouldn't suspect them. Jake wondered if Destiny "the good girl" was involved in such activities. He's aware that maybe he's overthinking but he got to know. The entire weekend, his mind was on Destiny and he couldn't wait for Monday so he could follow her after school. Jake just have to find out if she's in something bad.

His brother died dealing drugs and he don't want anybody else he knows to get caught in that trap. His anxiety was kicking in because he just wanted Monday to come. Monday finally came and he went to school. His other classmates were there but there was no sign of Destiny. Jake was disappointed but also stressed because he was thinking of all the possible outcome of she going in that car. Days went by and he didn't see Destiny in school so he started asking around and no-one gave him any answer that he wanted.

His friends were getting curious because they were wondering why he's so concerned about Destiny Wave all of a sudden. It's just a pity they didn't know he have been concerned about Destiny from the day he met her. He just wanted to be her friend, he wanted to know everything about her. He thinks he knew her but she tends to be unpredictable sometimes. You can't really tell with her, you know. Two weeks had passed and he didn't see Destiny and the teachers didn't make any mentions of her either which made it even worst. He wanted to ask about her but didn't know how to since his friends already thinks it's weird that he's so concerned about her. He hoped she was ok and he even prayed for her safety but he was still worried.

It was the Wednesday in the third week in June of 2022 that Destiny came back to school. It's like no-one noticed that she was missing for so long but Jake. It's like she was not out of school at all. There must be something deeper going on because it's like nobody didn't even notice her. Not even the teachers. He wondered if he's the only one that could actually see Destiny. She sat where she normally sat looking studious as always in her unique lady like posture. She had this scared look on her face though. That look that you give when you're in trouble. End of term exam was just four days away and Jake could imagine she must be a little anxious since she missed so many days of teaching but she's a brilliant girl so he guess she'll be ok.

Oh how he wished he could read minds because she looked terrified. He just wanted to know what she was thinking and how she felt. He wanted to offer to show her what they did while she wasn't in school but was a bit scared to approach her. It was then lunch time and his friends and him went to the cafeteria to get lunch. His mind was set on Destiny but he didn't want to just go to her and ask if she's ok since he have never done it before. He felt it would've come off a lil weird for him to just try and talk to her out the blue so he just pretended to be fine and ate his lunch with his friends. After that lunch time was up and it was time for his other class so he headed to the classroom where he saw Destiny with her head on the desk. He was curious on whether or not she had lunch, he just really wanted to know what was on her mind.

He was there in his seat staring at her in a discrete way until Ms. Dasy, their English teacher came in. Miss Dasy is one of their more fun teachers so everyone was excited for her class except Destiny of course. She normally engages in classes but it's like she's not even interested in coming to school anymore. It's like she's a whole different person from the girl he used to see in classes before. Ms. Dasy class ended on a fun note and school was dismissed. Destiny got her things and headed to the school gate.

"This is the evening I'll find out where she goes after school," said Jake in his head.

She walked to the gate and he was right behind her. She walked down the street and then she made a left turn going in the direction of the town. He followed her and in the town he could see cars driving, hear horns blowing, and see market people selling, working class people going about their business and other school children loitering around the stores on the street. He saw all of that but he didn't care. His only care was finding out where Destiny was heading.

He followed her and she didn't even look behind her once, there's a saying that you can tell when you're being followed but it seems as if Destiny couldn't. She went in a building but Jake was existant to go in there because he didn't know what to expect so he waited a bit and then she came out with a young child. She held the child hand and walk towards the other direction where her home probably is. He didn't continue to follow her because he felt stupid.

"The reason she leaves school so early is to go pick up that child who is possibly her .So all this time I was wondering why she always in such a hurry after school and it's because of the child but that still doesn't justify the black car that picked her up the other day. I feel like I'm missing something here but I'm going to rest this case because I have exams to prepare for," uttered Jake.

It's now the Monday of exams and everyone is settling in their seat. Destiny was there as well as everyone else. They did exams for one week and then they went on break for summer holidays. Everybody was excited to be out of school on holidays. It was finally time for them to have some fun without having to worry about school the next day.

Jake was hoping on seeing Destiny over the holidays. He spent most of his holiday at his dad's food shack where he helped in tending to customers. He liked working with his dad because he could see tourist passing by after they come off the crew ships that normally dock nearby his father's food shack. He also loved feeling the cool breeze from the ocean and hearing the waves bouncing on the rocks. It gave him a peaceful feeling. One hot summer day he was at his father's shack working and Mystery man and his crew walked in his father's shack. He was shocked to see them there because they don't normally hang out there. He was looking in their direction and as soon as he made to walk towards them, his dad stopped him. He then walked over to them and they handed him a package and he handed them something in return. At this point, you can imagine, Jake was shocked.

"What could my father have for a drug dealer and what did he gave my dad? " Jake wondered. After that his dad went over to him like nothing happened and Jake looked at him in disbelief.

He was just there in silence until he got the courage to ask him what business he had with Mystery man and he told him not to worry. But knowing Jake, he can't just pretend as if he didn't see his dad doing an exchange with Mystery man.

"Could he be laundering money for Mystery man, could he be the reason my brother died; I have to get to the root of this," murmured Jake

The following day, he went to the shack and was carrying out daily activities as usual such as taking orders from customers and serving them. He then saw this beautiful girl walked in with the most serious face you can imagine. She glimpsed at him and he went over to her.

"Hi there, are you ready to make your order?" asked Jake.

She smiled at him and told him what she wanted. He wanted to ask her how her summer was going but he was scared because Destiny is unpredictable and he didn't want her to just ignore his question. He was there waiting on her order as his heart beat three times faster and he started feeling hot. He could hardly contain himself so he went outside for some fresh air. To his surprise she followed him outside and tapped him on his shoulder.

"Oh hi, Des---ti--ny," he stuttered

"Hi, how are you?" replied Destiny

They were there talking and he was telling her about his summer and she was telling him about hers. He then went on to enquire about the days she was missing from school and she told him about her life. She told him things have been very hard on her family and her parents have to do extra hours at work so she had to collect her lil sister from daycare. Additionally, she told him she was sick as to why she was missing from school. They conversed for a long while until she told him she had to go home and so she collected her food and he told her he wanted to see her again.

"Can you believe it, I finally spoke to my crush , Destiny. I know her name and I forgot to tell her mines. I wonder what she thinks of me, talking to her made me feel way better after seeing my dad doing an exchange with Mystery man,'' stated Jake

Chapter 2

Secrets

Later on in the week, Jake went to a festival and he saw Destiny there.

"Ooh, she looks so beautiful," he said

He walked over to her and engaged her in a conversation. As the conversation came to a pleasant end, she calmly said, it was nice talking to you Jake.

"She knew my name all along, wow, I can't even believe it," said Jake with his inside voice

She then went her ways and he went his. Even though he thought he was good with what he saw his dad doing with Mystery man, he can't seem to get it off his mind. He just wants to know what his dad is doing. He really hope he's not in water that he'll eventually drown in. He was too worried so he went home because he couldn't enjoy the festival knowing his dad could be playing with fire he might get the whole family burn in.

"My innocent mom wouldn't hurt a fly and he's putting her life and my life at risk. I don't want to be too quick to judge my dad, but I can't unsee what I saw. I just wish I had more information on the matter,'' said Jake

"You know what I'm gonna get to the bottom of this and I'm going to find out what really happened to my brother," Jake uttered softly.

Jake went home and waited diligently for his dad to come home. As soon as he came in, he tried to talk to him but then mom walked in and he played it off.

"I hope he don't think that I'm through with him, cause I'm just getting started," whispered Jake

"Hi honey," said his dad happily

"Hi my darling husband, how was work today," responded his mom while smiling

"Today was very stressful, I had many customers coming in from the peers," he said while giving mom a hug and a kiss on her lips.

"Oh hun, you're home now and I'm gonna relieve you of some of that stress," said his wife.

"I wonder if he's telling the truth. I wonder if the customers are the main reasons for his stress or he's referring to Mystery man," Jake questioned himself

Jake went up to his room and lay in his bed as he awaits his mom to call him for dinner. In his head, he was thinking what's his next move because he really need to find out why his dad is in contact with Mystery man.

"Jake, dinner is ready," called his mom

"Ok, mom, I'll be there in a minute," Jake replied

He was thinking so hard that he started sweating so he had to wash his face before he went downstairs for dinner because he didn't want to get his mom worried.

"I don't want to keep secrets from mom. I mean we tell each other everything. How I'm I gonna act normal when I have so much on my mind," Jake whispered while shaking a bit.

He tried to hold his composure and went down stairs trying to act normal. He sat down at the table adjacent to his mom and she asked if he was ok and he said yea mom, I'm fine. They then said their grace and ate dinner. After dinner, he told his mom thanks for the delicious dinner and went upstairs. He then took a shower and while in the shower he had some time to think. He spent about twenty minutes in the shower thinking and then he got in bed and watched YouTube videos until he fell asleep. When he woke up he had every intention to tackle his dad about Mystery man and then he came to the conclusion that he would just leave him and investigate without him knowing. In order to do that he went to the shack everyday so he could pay close attention to him. He didn't see anything strange or out of norm going on but he wasn't going to give up the case so easily.

A few days went by and as he was walking home by himself one of the evenings he saw Mystery man and his thugs antagonizing a man. Everyone knows about Mystery man and what he's capable of so he knew he should act like he didn't see anything. He hurriedly walks pass where they were and to his surprise they didn't notice him. He's really glad they didn't because it might have not been pretty if they saw him. The street life isn't for everybody and I'm pretty sure it isn't for Jake. That's not a life he would want to live at all. He ran home fast and got inside and closed the door behind him.

"Mom, mom, I'm home," Jake called

But his mother didn't answer and Jake knew his mom was home because she wouldn't go anywhere without letting it be known where she would be. He checked the kitchen but she wasn't there so he went upstairs. When he went upstairs he checked her room and he didn't find her.

"Mom, mom!!" he yelled

He yelled but he didn't hear a sound from her. He ran back downstairs in a haste and then he realized the door to the back yard was open and he walked through it. When he reached outside he saw his mom lying on the ground. He ran over to her and help up her head and then he checked for pulse and checked for a heartbeat. She was breathing and he took out his phone and called his dad.

"Dad where are you, mom, mom needs to get to the hospital," said Jake in a scared tone.

"Jake, listen to me, you need to call an ambulance, I'm gonna try to be there as soon as I can, but in the meantime, take your mom to the hospital," replied his dad.

The ambulance took about five minutes to get there and they took his mom to the hospital. The paramedics was trying all they could to revive his mother but she wouldn't wake up so they rushed her to the emergency room when they got to the hospital. Jake had to wait outside because he couldn't go in the emergency room. While he was waiting he was fretting about his mother's health. He didn't know her to have any underline illness but her suddenly passing out must be serious. Two hours had passed and his dad still wasn't there. Jake was mad at his dad and his rage grew even more when he finally reached the hospital.

"You were literally ten minutes away from home and even closer to the hospital from your shack; why are you just coming?" yelled Jake angrily at his dad.

Tears filled Jake's eyes as his dad hugged him.

"What was so important that you couldn't come when I called?" he asked his dad.

"Son I was taking care of some business," he answered

"What's more important than mom, uh answer me dad?" he asked in an angry tone

The dad was telling him that everything will be alright, just ignoring his questions. The doctor came out and Jake rushed to him. The doctor told them that she's stable but she needs to rest. They asked to see her and the doctor showed them the room she was in and they rushed in. Jake hugged her and kissed her on her forehead and then the dad hugged her and held her hand. Jake asked her how she was feeling and she told him she's fine. A mother will never tell their child if they are in pain because she don't want them to worry. Jake then told his mom if she's sleeping at the hospital then he's not going home. She told him it's ok for him to leave her and go home to get some rest but he intended to stay and that's what he did. Jake spent the night at the hospital, then he went home to clean himself up in the morning. The dad had to go home in the night to ensure the house was closed up properly.

When Jake went home he saw his dad and went straight to him inquiring on what was so important but the dad managed to get himself out of the interrogation by saying he have to get to the shack. Jake dad was a known respectable man of dignity and integrity so how could he get himself caught up in illegal business. Jake didn't get the answer he was looking for and he was very mad. Jake brushed his teeth and took a shower then made some cereal and then he left out to go back to the hospital. On his way to the hospital he stopped at a corner shop and buy some things for his mother with money from his allowance. He then went to the hospital and when he reached he handed his mother the flowers and fruit juice he got for her. She showed her gratitude by hugging him and kissing him on his cheek.

"Mom are you going to be ok?" he asked in a sad tone

"Yes darling, with the help of God, I will be ok," she replied

As they were there talking, the nurse came in to check on her.

"Mrs. Hilton, I'm just here to check on you," she said

"How long will my mom be here?" Jake asked the nurse

"She'll be out as soon as everything is ok with her, she'll be out here in no time," she replied while smiling with Jake.

Jake looked at his mom and held her hands as he rubbed his forehead against his fist.

His mom assured him that everything will be fine in due time. She told him to go and check on his dad and he refused to do so. It was that time that his mom realized that something was definitely off with Jake and his dad. She waited until her husband came to visit her.

"Robert, what's going on with you and Jake," the dad then plays it off as if everything is ok.

"Sheril, he is growing up and he just disagrees with somethings that I do," said Robert

"You guys need to be there for each other especially in times like this," said Sheril

"Times like this, what you talking about woman, you are going to be ok, you're acting as if you're dying," said Robert as he expressed himself.

"What if I'm dying, the doctor said I have stage four breast cancer and you know we don't have enough money to support this family and pay for treatment," she said

"Come on honey, don't talk like that, we will find a way, I'll find a way to pay for your treatment," he assured her as he hugged her.

Tears fell down her face as she expressed to him her concern for Jake.

"He is so young and promising, I don't want to leave my boy, I'm not scared to die, but I'm not ready; I really want to see my boy grow up, I want to meet my grandkids, I'm not ready Robert," she uttered sadly while crying.

Robert hugged her and told her everything will be fine. Jake walked in and saw his mom crying and hugged her. He was still mad at his dad but he bypassed that and hugged his mom with his dad.

Robert phones rings and he let go of his wife and went outside to answer it. He was out there for a moment and Jake walked out there to check on him and he wasn't there so he walked outside the hospital only to see his dad with Mystery man. He walked closer to them so he could hear what they were talking about. He walked up behind them without them noticing and hid behind one of the hospitals ambulance. He could hear his dad telling mystery man to leave his family out of this.

"My family has nothing to do with this," he said to Mystery man

"If you don't do what you are told then they will get involved, I own you so act like it; until you pay me for what you asked me to do then you will do as I say," said Mystery man.

"What have father done," wondered Jake

Robert hisses his teeth and walked off swinging his hands left to right and then he placed his hands on his head and crouched. Jake ran to his dad and asked him what Mystery man was talking about and he told him not to worry about it because he had it covered. He asked Jake to keep what he heard to himself and don't tell his mom.

"Dad if you're in danger, you need to report it to the police before it's too late," said Jake

"Police, I can't go to the police, son I got it covered, stop worrying," stated Robert

Later on in the week, the doctor told Robert that his wife should get chemotherapy within the next two weeks so he need to come up with the money. He had some money in the family savings so he got it and paid for it but that means that all the savings will be used up since the chemotherapy is so expensive. They had another savings account for Jake to go to college and he was hoping he don't have to use that.

"Robert honey, the doctor said I have to do chemotherapy very soon," said Sheril

"I know darling, don't worry about it, I'll pay for it," he replied while rubbing her back

Two weeks had finally came and it was time for Sheril to do chemotherapy so she and her family prayed before going in for it. After they prayed the nurses came to carry her to the room she would be doing it in. Jake and Robert went to the waiting area holding faith that everything will go well with Sheril. Jake walked out the hospital to get some fresh air but rain was pouring outside so he had to go back inside. As he walked towards his dad, his heart was racing and he was flooded with emotion. He just bussed out in tears as he sat down beside his dad and his dad held him and hugged him.

Chapter 3

Hope

Jake went to sleep but he kept on having flashes of his mom crying. It's like she's in pain and need saving so he asked his dad if his mom is dying and he said no.

"Come on dad, please don't lie to me, I need to know," insisted Jake

"Oh my boy your mother is really sick but the treatment will help," said Robert

Jake sighed and shaked his head

They both waited anxiously

"I hope she's ok," said Robert.

A few hours had passed and Sheril was out of the chemotherapy room and back in the room she was before. They went in to see her, she looked weak but they were so happy to see her they ignored that. After a while Robert said he had to go to the shack.

"Ok, darling. Jake are you going with your dad to the shack?" asked Sheril.

"Yes mom," he replied.

Jake and his dad walked out the hospital and went to the shack. When they got to the shack, Robert opened the door and Jake started wiping off the tables with the suitable disinfectant and then he set them up with table cloth and napkins. While he was doing that, his mind was set on seeing Destiny again. Thinking about her was the only thing that could distract him from worrying about his mother. It was 11:30 a.m. and customers started pouring in and Jake greeted them with a friendly nod. He then took their order with the help of the other two persons working with Robert.

''Gooday, are you ready to make your order,'' Jake asked politely as he visit the different tables.

The customers either made their order upon his question or they wait until they decide on what to order. Jake was very good at his job and so he took the orders and bring them into the chef and get the food back to customers in a timely manner. He was so good that the kind ones always give him tip but some were so stingy that they wouldn't even say thank you when he serves their food. Jake didn't feel anyway about it because he knows that he's just doing his job and they have to pay for what they order either way. Customers kept coming in and one of the main reasons for business to be running this good is because the competition has shut down. Rabby's grill and bar was one of the hottest spots in town but Rabby passed away and business has been shut down ever since. It seems as if none of his relatives want to take on the task and allow his legacy to live on. Well, it has been benefiting Robert because now he gets all the customers at Hilton's Shack since there's no more competition. Critics have it to say that Hilton's shack food have always been better but because of how luxurious Rabby's grill and bar was; people always preferred to eat there.

"Jake, can you come back here for a moment," declared Robert.

Jake went to his dad and his dad expressed how grateful he is to him for helping out in the shack. Jake then went outside to take a break since the amount of customers coming in were decreasing. Jake stayed out there for about 20 minutes and then he went back inside to talk to his dad but when he got back inside he didn't see his dad. He stands there wondering where he could have gone and then he went through the back door of the shack that led outside.

"Uh oh," he whispered under his breath

His dad was outside looking like he could've pissed his pants because a man with the deepest British accent you could think of was holding a gun to his head.

"I need my money man, man dem gon' slide if I don't get my cash," he uttered

You could hear the cruelty in his voice, he doesn't mind shedding blood for his money.

"You're gonna get your money, please, please, leave my family out of this, they don't deserve to get caught up in a mess I created -please," begged Robert eagerly

"Well you know what to do if you want them out of this," replied the thug.

Jake wanted to run to his dad help but was scared to risk showing his identity so he stopped behind a bin as he trembled. The man then walked off and Robert fist squeezed against his chest as he gasped for breath. His heart was beating so fast; he could hardly contain himself.

"Dad, are you okay," Jake shouted as he ran into his arms.

"Son, how much of that did you saw?" asked Robert

"I saw enough to know that you're in trouble -dad why are you talking to bad guys all of a sudden. And now he's threatening you, what's up with you dad," whined Jake

"Son when trouble ketch yuh, pikney shut fit yuh," said Robert in his Jamaican accent.

Jake didn't really understand the sayings that his parents use some of the time - all he knows is that his parents are Jamaican which makes him Jamaican but he has never visited the place. He only heard about its beauty and his family from there. They use creole with him from time to time and so he knows how to speak Jamaican creole but he don't understand some of the things his parents normally say.

"Why are you speaking in parables - dad what does that even mean," said Jake

"One day you will have the wisdom to understand the things I say to you, my son," replied Robert

Robert then told Jake that everything will be fine and he shouldn't worry too much about what he saw and heard. Robert was only saying that to comfort Jake. He knew deep down he was in big trouble and he needed to sort it out soon. He knows he couldn't go to the police because aa soon as he reports it, the bad men would know about it and they would definitely kill him for snitching. Robert must fix his problem himself by paying up what he owes because he got himself into the mess he's in.

The next day Jake and Robert visited Sheril in the hospital. They were keeping their fingers cross that everything would go quite fine and she'll be alright and well. As they wait to see her they both whisper prayers to God asking him to help Sheril.

"Mr. Hilton ," called the Doctor

"Yes doc ,how is she ," asked Robert

"She's doing better but she needs to rest, she'll be able to go home in the next two days when she fully recovers," stated the Doctor

"Can we see her," asked Jake

"Come right this way," said the doctor

They went with the doctor and then in the room where Sheril was. They both greeted her with a hug and their face lighted up to see her looking better than she did before.

"Hi, my boys," gushed Sheril

Both Robert and Jake said it all, they didn't even open their mouth. Anyone could see the happiness on their faces.

"Ma," babbled Jake and then kisses followed his word.

"Dad, tell mom, how good the business has been doing," chortled Jake

Robert went on to tell his wife how good the business has been performing and how he wants to expand and start another business. She asked him what he have in mind but he told her he wasn't sure. I wonder if he's only expanding so he can deal in drugs without people finding out. Jake was all too busy showering his mom with love. They spent some time with Sheril and then they went home in the night. The next day Jake and Robert went to the shack. They sell for the entire day and then they went to the hospital to bring dinner for Sheril.

"Ma, we bring your favorite," entreated Jake.

"Hi, honey - thank you," said Sheril.

Robert handed Sheril the plate with the food and gave her a fork. Sheril opened the food and started eating.

"Mhmm, this is so tasty," bubbled Sheril.

She ate it all off and licked her ten fingers. They spent some time with her and then they left for home. They were all excited because she was supposed to get discharge the next day. When they got home, Jake asked his dad what he was planning to do when he expands the business and his dad told him exactly what he told Sheril.

"Don't lie to me, I hope you're not planning on getting in anything illegal," sneered Jake

"Son, you have nothing to worry about and remember keep what you saw and heard the other day to yourself, you wouldn't want to put more stress on your mother now, would you," declared Robert.

Jake left the conversation as it is and didn't say another word. He went to his room and Robert went to his. In the morning, Robert drove to the hospital to pick up Sheril without Jake's knowledge. When Jake woke and realized he was a bit disappointed because he wanted to go with his dad to pick up his mother. Anyways he waited their patiently for them to get home and when they finally did he ran and open the car door for his mom.

"Welcome back home mom," soothed Jake

They went in the house and Sheril congratulated them on keeping up the house.

"The house is spick and span (clean)," she said

"We tried," rasped Jake

They then carried on with regular day to day activities, Robert kissed his wife goodbye and left for the shack but Jake stayed home with his mom. Sheril sat down in the living room area and open a picture album. Her face was glowing as she smiled while skipping each page tenderly. Jake went upstairs to his room to play video game online with his friends. He normally makes good use of his time, such as doing something constructive but this time he was just relaxing and freeing his mind of all the stress. Two days later he decided to go to the shack with his dad and help him out. He didn't go with his dad in the morning, he went in the afternoon and when he got there, business was in full effect. Many customers were storming in; you could hear different sounds from all the chattering that was taking place. Everybody was talking about what they want to order, Jake got there just in time to help with the lunch time rush. He started taking orders as he got there, his dad didn't even know he reached. All the waiters were in a hurry to get the orders to the customers. Everything were going good, the dishes were being shared and customers' faces were filled with smiles as they receive their delicious steamy meals.

"Jake, you're here," gulped Robert

"Yes dad, I've been here for about 20 minutes now, taking orders but because you're behind there in the kitchen, you didn't see me," entreated Jake.

Robert then went back in the kitchen and Jake continued with serving the customers. Afterwards Destiny and her mom walked in and greeted Jake with a smile. Jake greeted her back with a smirk then he walked over to her and said hi to her and her mom. Jake was pleased to see Destiny because he has been longing to see her. Destiny's mom smiled at Jake and nod her head as she walked over by a table and left Destiny and Jake to talk.

"It's good seeing you Destiny," gushed Jake

"Likewise, Jake," said Destiny with the broadest smile on her face as she turn to walk over to the table her mom was sitting.

"Uhm , Des --Desti --Destiny ,would you like to hang out sometimes when you're free ?"asked Jake nervously

"I would have to ask my mom first, but I'll let you know," replied Destiny

"Ok," said Jake

After that he went to finish taking orders and serving customers. While he was at it he saw two of Mystery man 's goons walked in. He was a bit startled to see them walking in his dad's shack in broad day light. He knows they can raise alarm and scare off people from coming to the shack.

"Well probably no one notices them," he said to himself his head

Jake then rushed to the kitchen to call his dad's attention to the matter. He told his dad that two of Mystery man's goons were in the shack and he went out there to them.

"What are you guys doing here," pouted Robert

"What you mean, you know why we are here," declared the two goons

"You guys shouldn't be here, I already talk to your boss about this kind of behavior," hissed Robert

"We don't care about what you talked about in the pass, the boss wanted us to remind you that you still owe him," boomed one of the goons.

"Owe him, what for," asked Robert

"Well you know what he did for you and your shack," answered the goon smiling.

"Oh no, I already paid him for what he did, I want no problems with Mystery man," whispered Robert.

"Let's go outside and talk this out because people are watching and that's not good for business," demanded Robert

They walked outside and as they walked Jake's eyes followed them all the way to where he could see them. He wanted to go out there but didn't wanted customers to get worried. Robert leaded them to a spot where the customers couldn't see them.

"Your business is doing well I can see, you have loads of customers coming in each day and that's exactly why our boss think here's the right place to clean his money," rambled the goon.

"I'm not getting tied up with your blood money, I'm not laundering no money here so tell your boss the answer is no," responded Robert

"Well, he's not asking, you have to do it - we'll see you when we see you," said the goon.

They then walked off and got in their car. Robert was very furious that he just fell to the ground and screamed no.

"Why is this happening to me - - I can't do this, what have I gotten myself into, now my poor wife and son's life is in jeopardy if I don't comply," sobbed Robert.

Robert is a very respectable man but he's got himself in big trouble. What could he have asked Mystery man to do for him that he needs payback even after he got paid. He sat out there for about 15 minutes to reflect on his life and how much better it would be if he didn't bring Mystery man in it. Jake was in the shack but got worried after he didn't see his dad return. He went out there, only to see his dad looking scared as a startled cat. He tried to comfort his dad by asking what's wrong but Robert just didn't respond because he didn't know what to tell Jake.

"Son," sobbed Robert

"You can talk to me dad," consoled Jake trying to cheer up his dad.

"Son, I'm- I don't want you to worry, everything is going to work out good," said Robert.

"Dad you can tell me if you're in trouble, I will keep it a secret between me and you, just tell me dad, please," insisted Jake.

Robert refused to tell Jake anything, he just continued to tell him that everything will be fine. He didn't want his wife to hear about his distress so he asked Jake to keep it from her. Jake agreed to not tell his mom that dad seems to be in trouble but only because he didn't wanted her to stress. After a moment they went back inside and Robert decided to close early, so he did that and went home. He and Jake then got in the car and drove off. Their ride home was a very silent one, Jake always find something to talk about but his dad wasn't willing to answer the questions he was asking so he didn't bother to say anything. When they got home Jake got out of the car, went in the house and went straight in his room.

Chapter 4

All a lie

Robert's face was looking very sad but he placed a smile on it as he was about to enter the house. As he walked in, Sheril was walking downstairs, he made sure to greet her with a smile and she greeted him back with one.

"Hi, sweetheart, how was your day ," asked Robert

"My day was good," replied Sheril.

As she walked down the last stairs she walked in his arms and he kissed her on her mouth. He hugged her for about one minute long as he tells her how much he loves and appreciate her. She indulged him as she hugged him tighter. After they let each other go, Robert went to the bathroom to get himself clean up and Sheril stepped outside her backyard to water her plants. Sheril was outside watering her plants and singing some of her favorite songs. She was really enjoying taking care of her garden, she was singing to the flowers as well as talking to them.

Jake looked through his window and called to his mom as she was watering the plants.

"Hi, lady, how are you?" called Jake

"Hey, my handsome son, why don't you come down here and help me take care of the plants," said Sheril

"Ok, mom; I'm coming," replied Jake

Jake grabbed his phone and headed downstairs and outside to the garden. When he got out there, he took up a waterer and filled it with water. He then proceeded to water the plants. While they were at it they talked about how short life is and how blessed they are to be alive. After they finished watering the plants they sat down on a bamboo bench and watch the sun as it set.

"It's so beautiful," whispered Sheril

Robert didn't see Sheril inside so he stepped outside and as he walked out to the backyard, you could see the shock on his face. It's not out of norm to see Jake and his mom chilling because they are really close but Robert was scared Jake was going to tell Sheril about various meet ups with Mystery man. He really didn't have anything to worry about as it relates to Jake telling his mom cause he wasn't going to do something that he knows would stress her out. Robert walked over to them and sat beside his wife and placed his hand around his wife's shoulder and kissed her on her cheek. They all sat there and watched the sunset. After that they went in to have dinner. Sheril had prepared dinner earlier so all she needed to do was reheat it. She reheated the food and shared it and they sat, prayed and eat.

"Wow, did you use something different today, this chicken taste different but tasty," gushed Robert.

"I used a different sauce today, honey," said Sheril

"Yea, mom it tastes really good," said Jake

"Thanks, sweetheart," replied Sheril

They enjoyed their dinner then they got up from around the dinner table. Robert washed the dishes and Jake wiped off the stove. After they did that they watched a movie in the living room. They watch the movie until they fell asleep. Sheril woke up first so she woke up Jake and Robert and tell them to go to their room. The next day, Sheril was going to the market and asked Jake to accompany her so he didn't go to the shack with his dad.

Robert was terrified because he didn't wanted Jake to slip up and tell his mom anything but there was nothing he could do because Jake is always the one who go to the market with Sheril. He dropped them off in the town and then drove to the shack. When he got to the shack there were people waiting on him. He opened the door and let them in. He already knew what they wanted because they are regular customers. He prepared their coffee and served it to them. He then proceeded to start preparing food for the lunch time rush. Lunch is the time when the shack is always busiest.

Meanwhile at the market Jake and Sheril was picking and choosing what they want. They shopped and take taxi home because they didn't want to call Robert from the shack since it was almost 12 and that's the time everyone from the nearby work places come to get their lunches. When Jake and Sheril reached home, Jake helped her packed out the goods and then he went to his room. He played video game online with his friends and then he watched a movie. He fell asleep watching the movie and his parents went in the room to check on him in the night hours so they turned it off.

The next day Jake rose out of bed and decided to go for a run; on his run he saw Destiny hanging out by the park so he stopped to greet her. They spoke for a while and he asked her about the question he asked her a while back.

"Did you ask your mom if you can go out with me sometimes?" he asked

"Oh, no I didn't," said Destiny

Jake faced dropped and you could see disappointment was killing him.

"Oh ok," he uttered

Destiny gave him a soft slap on his arm and smiles at him as he glanced away.

"I'm just kidding Jakey, now fix your face," demanded Destiny as she blushed

Jake smiled with her and she kissed him on his cheek. Jake's heart was pounding as a drum and he could hardly contain himself.

"So so so do want to go the movies Friday to see that new 'The Rock' show," stuttered Jake

"Yes I'd love that," whispered Destiny

"Ok, I'll see you then," said Jake

"Bye Jake," replied Destiny

Jake returned home and his heart was filled with happiness because he would finally get a chance to go out with his crush. He was in very good spirits and when he got home he showered and ate his breakfast and went to the shack with his dad. When they got there, Robert opened the door and Jake got disinfectant and wiped down all the tables and chairs. After that he went in the kitchen - something he don't normally do- to help his dad prepare coffee and sandwiches for the persons who want breakfast. He was in really good spirits. When lunch time came he took orders from the customers and serve them. It was a very successful day and they cleaned up the kitchen and dining area, closed the shack and leave for home.

Both Robert and Jake got in the front of the car. As Robert was about to start the car, a gun was pointed to his head coming from the back of the car. Mystery man somehow breaks into Robert's car and waited for him.

"Yo, aren't you going to pay me my money," scolded Mystery man

"What money, I ain't got no money for you, I already paid you for what you did," said Robert

"Paid, the deed I did for you cost way more than that so if you don't have the money you will have to wash my money," said Mystery man

"I'm not dealing with your drugs money, I want nothing to do with you," said Robert

"So you think you're better than me, you're not much better than me you know, I run this place by making people scared of me but you run your place by getting rid of somebody," said Mystery man

By this time of the conversation Jake was wondering what is going on, he wanted to say something but didn't want Mystery man to harm either him or his dad.

"Why are you doing this in front of my son?" asked Robert

"Your son, he probably thinks your hands are clean but you're one of the most brutal persons in his life," said Mystery man

"Dad, what is he talking about," asked Jake

"Don't worry about it son, he's just talking," said Robert

"Dad, stop lying to me, all you do is lie and you don't realize your lies can cause us more harm than good," sneered Jake

As Mystery man pushed the gun closer to Robert's head, he cried out for him to stop.

"Please don't hurt me or my son. I will do whatever you want me to do, just please don't hurt me or any body in my family, " Robert begged

"What you've asked me to do in the past comes at great price, I killed a man for you so now you will do what I say," said Mystery man

Jake started crying

"Dad, did you really ask Mystery man to take someone's life," cried Jake

"Son, I didn't mean for him to be dead, I just wanted him to scare him off but he ended up killing him," replied Robert

"Who was it dad," yelled Jake

"It was my biggest mistake son, I'm sorry, please don't tell your mom, she would leave me if she hears such things and I can't afford to lose her," sobbed Robert

"Dad, I said who did you ordered to be dead,"

"It was the man who own the restaurant down the road. He was disrespectful and he stole all my customers. We were going broke son and I couldn't afford for that to happen so I asked Mystery man to scare him out of town," said Robert

"You mean Rabby; oh, so that's why nobody couldn't find his body. It's because you and Mystery man took care of it, dad that's very cruel of you and I'm very disappointed in you," rebuked Jake.

"Son I'm really sorry," cried Robert

"Now, stop with all the crying and listen to me, you're going to clean my cash and your son will bring it to me discretely," ordered Mystery man

"I'll bring it myself, keep my son out of this, he has nothing to do with this," said Robert

"I said you will laundry my money and your son will bring it to me discretely," commanded Mystery man.

Mystery man warned them that if they don't follow through with what he said, he will harm them. Robert was very upset and scared for his family so he agreed to everything Mystery man said. Jake was so traumatized to know that his dad is capable of doing such wicked act out of fear that his business would fail. He didn't say another word; he was so angry with his dad that he could hardly breathe. When they got home, he got out the car and slammed the door shut then run inside the house and went in his room and shut the door. His dad rushed in and tried to call to him but he didn't answer him. Robert was knocking in Jake's door but Jake didn't pay him any mind. Robert was very worried but had to play cool because he didn't want his wife to get the impression that something is wrong. He didn't have any appetite to eat so he told Sheril he and Jake had something to eat back at the shack so they are not hungry. He took a shower and went to bed early. Sheril didn't think much of it because she knows he's tired.

Jake was going out of his mind in his room, he was crying, he was tossing, he was rolling and he couldn't seek comfort from his mom because then he would have to tell her what is wrong with him. He wanted someone to talk to but couldn't open his mouth because his dad's secret would be in jeopardy. Jake really wanted to tell his mom but know it would break her heart so he didn't. Jake didn't have appetite to do anything at all - he couldn't eat, he couldn't sleep, he couldn't watch television and he couldn't do his favorite thing which is playing video game. He laid down in bed until he fell asleep. When he woke up in the morning, he wished he didn't wake. The act that his dad carried out had a huge impact on him. It affected him negativity and he felt empty.

Jake woke early but stayed in his room for the entire day, his mom tried getting in but the door was shut, she called but he didn't answered and she tried texting him but he didn't bother to answer her. He was afraid to face her because he don't like lying to his mom. After some time, he got hungry and decided to act brave and face her. He went downstairs where he saw his mom and dad talking. He got irritated right as he saw his dad but he played it off. Robert looked at him and he looked away. Sheril saw what was going on and asked them about their attitude towards each other.

"What's going on with you two," she asked

"I notice you came in last night and you didn't even greet me and that's not like you my sweet Jake," said Sheril

"I'm just going through somethings I'd rather not talk about mom," sighed Jake

"Well I'm here if you decide to talk about it, I love you Jake, you know you can talk to me about anything," consoled Sheril.

Sheril made a plate for Jake and he ate it and drink juice then he asked his mom to excuse him and he went straight back to his room. When he got in his room he laid down in his bed and was trying to fall asleep but couldn't. Instead of tossing and spinning in his bed, he just played video game. He played until he felt a lil sleepy then he went to his bed. The next day, Robert set off to work and while on his way he got a flashback of him asking Mystery man to scare off his competition. Anyone could tell that Robert regret ever asking Mystery man to do anything. His mind was far gone and he wasn't paying attention to the road. It's like it was a dead man driving because he became blank and next thing you know he crashed right into an incoming truck. Robert's car was so crushed; it would be a miracle if he made it out alive.

Chapter 5

Faith

A pale film of smoke was coming from Robert's car and the driver from the trailer came out with just bruises from glass on his face and his hands. He was shaking, you could see the fright and disbelief in his face. He struggled to get Robert out the crushed car but soon later he got help from motorists that were passing by the scene. They eventually managed to take Robert out of the car and eventually the ambulance came and paramedics rushed him to the hospital. Robert was unconscious when he got to the hospital and they rushed him to the emergency room.

Someone took his phone from his pocket and fortunately it wasn't all the way broken; the phone screen was smashed but it could be used still. They looked for a number and they found his wife's number and they called it. Upon first call it went straight to voice mail but she called back about five minutes later. When she called back, the truck driver who went to the hospital with Robert greeted her with the bad news. She was shocked to hear the news and she just grabbed her purse and catch a taxi to the hospital. She didn't even call Jake, when she got to the hospital she rushed to the receptionist and asked for her husband. She was out of breath and the truck driver noticed her and walked up to her and ask if she's Robert's wife.

"Yes I am, where is he," she asked trembling

"He is in the emergency room," replied the man

She started acting uneasy as if she was getting off her mind, she couldn't see Robert and she didn't know the state he was in and that was driving her crazy. She was there for a while and then the doctor came out and updated her as to how Robert was doing.

"Good night mam, sorry to tell you this but your husband is in a real critical state, he's actually in a coma," said the doctor

"Oh no, why is this happening to me, do you know if he will wake anytime soon," cried Sheril

"Well I really can't tell you when he'll wake up but you just need to have a positive mindset that he'll wake soon, I'm really sorry," said the doctor and then he touched her shoulder as he walked off.

Sheril broke down in tears and the truck driver had to hug her and he tried everything to calm her down. She stayed at the hospital evening to see if there would be any changes with Robert. She eventually calmed down and then she wiped her eyes, breathe a prayer and then she went outside to get a taxi. Luckily, a taxi she knows was passing by at the time and so she went with him. She would have stayed at the hospital but Jake was home alone and he wasn't aware of what is going on so she wanted to go home. When she got home Jake wasn't there but he left a note for her since she wasn't home. The note said he would be gone for a while but he'll be back by 9:30 p.m. because he was seeing a movie with a friend. When Sheril just started reading the note, she was worried because she wondered where Jake had gone but as she read she saw that he went to a movie and as a result of that she was relieved. Meanwhile at the movies Jake and Destiny was enjoying the show that was playing. They had popcorn and drinks, as they ate they looked at each other and smile. Jake was very happy and when the movie ended he told Destiny he enjoyed spending time with her and he'd like to do it again sometime soon.

"I'd really like that too Jake," said Destiny while giggling

"Can I get a hug," asked Jake

Destiny agreed and gave him a tight hug. They both smiled at each other and walk towards the road to get a taxi. Jake fanned down a taxi and pulled the door to allow Destiny to go inside and then he went in. Destiny reached her stop after 5 minutes of driving and Jake asked the driver for 1 minute and then he walked her to her door and knocked the door. He ensured she was inside her home safely before he left. He then went back in the car and the taxi drove off. When he reached his stop, he paid the driver and walked towards his house grinning with himself. Little did he know he was going in to bad news. His mom was up waiting for him to inform him about his dad. He walked towards the door then he stopped and looked at the stars in the sky and smile once again. He then pulled out the front door key from his pocket and pulled the door and went inside. Once inside he saw his mom with her head held down and he suddenly knew something wasn't right with her.

"Mom, are you ok?" he asked out of concern

"Sweety come and take a seat, I have something to tell you but you have to be strong," replied Sheril

Jake went to have a seat beside his mom and she held his hand as she put the words to tell him together in her head.

"Baby, your dad met in an accident and he's now in critical state at the hospital," said Sheril

"What –what," stuttered Jake as tears fell down his face

He hugged his mom and he started crying out loud because he felt bad that he was out enjoying himself while his dad was battling for his life.

"Our good lord will heal him, sweetheart, all we have to do is pray for the best outcomes," consoled Sheril

"I want to see him mom," said Jake

"It's too late now son, we'll go to visit him tomorrow, hopefully he will wake from his coma but even if he doesn't we still have to talk to him," said Sheril

"Ok, mom," said Jake

Jake went to his room and Sheril went to hers. Sheril got on her knees and prayed to God asking him to help Robert out of his coma and then she went to sleep. Jake also went to sleep and when he woke up in the morning, he thanked the good lord for blessing him with another day. He got up and took a shower and get himself ready to go to the hospital. Sheril made breakfast and they both ate.

"I'll wash the dishes while you get ready mom", said Jake

Jake removed the dishes from the table and placed them in the sink and then he washed them thoroughly. He washed them and went back to his room to wait until his mom was ready. Sheril got ready and called Jake and they set off on their journey to the hospital hoping for the best. They called an uber and he picked them up and bring them to the hospital. When they got there they walked inside and went to the front desk to identify themselves. They were told to wait a few minutes for the doctor to address them. They waited for about seven minutes and he came out and talked to them; after which he carried them to the room Robert was in. When they went in they were expecting to see Robert still in his coma since the doctor told them before they went in. They were a bit disappointed because they thought he would wake by now. They went in and they started talking to him even though he couldn't respond. There's this saying that people in a coma can hear you so they spoke to him but didn't get a response from him. They stayed with him the entire day and then they left for home in the night.

When they got home they showered and ate something because they didn't have no appetite the entire day to eat anything. They ate and then they prayed, after which they went to bed. In the morning, Sheril told Jake she wanted to go to the shack since it has not been opened for some time since Robert was hospitalized. Jake insisted that he would go alone and told his mom to relax. He had his breakfast, then took a shower and headed out to the shack. When he got there, there were statements of threat stapled to the back door of the shack. Mystery man had left some graffiti warning Robert that if he doesn't repay him then he'll have to pay with his life. Jake got scared when he saw it and thanked God he's the one who went and not his mom because if she had seen that, it would not have been good. Jake knew his dad was ill and wasn't sure when he'd get better so he knew he had to take up matters in his own hands. He knew he had to man up and handle business so he got a piece of cloth and some cleaning equipment and cleaned off the areas that Mystery man spray painted. When he finished he was so tired that he just went inside and took some water from the refrigerator and drank. He was thinking of what to do and then it came to his mind that he could run the shack while his dad was away. He knew where the chefs that work in the shack lived and he also had their phone numbers so he called them and tell them that his dad his in critical condition at the hospital and they need to keep the shack going. They already knew all the recipes so they didn't really needed Robert. The next day they went to the shack at about 7:30 a.m. and started cooking for lunch. People were coming in for coffee and sandwiches in the morning and so Jake served them while the chefs prepared the meals. Jake didn't tell his mom that he was going to open the shack to customers but he knew he had to let her know because she would have to deal with the business transactions since Robert is ill. When they finished serving and he went home he sat down with her and told her it's best if they opened up the shack in order to make some money while Robert was in the hospital. At first Sheril disagreed because she didn't wanted Jake to overwork himself but then she realized it's a good idea since Robert may need money to buy medication whenever he's out of the hospital. Jake and his mom finally came to a conclusion and Sheril decided she would put down her dress making jobs for a while to help out in the shack. She had Robert phone so she could get the calls from his suppliers on when to carry in goods and what to bring. She knew Robert's routine, he'd normally take the profit from the shack to the bank on Thursdays and so she planned to do the same.

In the next day Jake and Sheril went to the shack early and sanitized the place before the chefs and customers arrive. When the chefs reach all they had to do was cook because Jake served and Sheril did the money collecting. Jake knew he had to do what Mystery man wanted before he did something else that Sheril would probably noticed so he took a break from work and walked down the street where Mystery man stays. When he got there he saw one of the goons on the street side waiting for customers so he went over to him.

"Yo, I need to talk to your boss," said Jake

"Who this lil punk think he talking to," replied the goon

"I need to talk to your boss so either you're going to take me to him or you're going to give me his number," said Jake

The goon then hissed his teeth and took out his phone to call Mystery man. As he was on the phone with Mystery man, a cop car drove up to him and Jake and he ran off because he had drugs on him. The cops hopped out the car and ran after him but they missed him so one of them held on to Jake.

"What did I do officer?" asked Jake

"Let him go, he's a good kid, I know him," said the other officer

The officer then let go of Jake's hand and told him to stay away from trouble and bad guys.

"Jake sighs "

"What have my dad done, look what he has caused me to do, trying to get in contact with Mystery man and nearly got arrested for nothing," complained Jake

Jake wanted to get to Mystery man so after the cops left he went the same direction. Mystery man goon ran. On his way, he only felt a bag going over his face and felt himself being pushed in a slow moving car. After that the car sped off and then he was dragged out of the car. He could feel himself being pushed up a staircase but he had no idea where he was but he had an idea that he was kidnapped by Mystery man since they might have thought he told police to follow him. Finally, he heard a door shut behind him and he heard Mystery man's voice asking him why he did it.

"Why I did what, I have no idea of what you're talking about," said Jake

"I'm giving you 30 seconds to talk," said Mystery man

Jake remained in silence and didn't utter a word from his mouth. Mystery man was there running his mouth and Jake didn't say anything. Anyways they finally took off the bag from over his face and he could see light. He opened his eyes and was looking all around him and all he could see was thick clouds of smoke coming from what Mystery man and his goons were smoking.

"Why am I here?" he asked

"You approached one of my men and as soon as you open your mouth to speak to him, the cops rolled up, are you an informant because if you are, you know what will happen to you," answered Mystery man

"I didn't say anything to any police, they just happened to come at the time I approached him," said Jake.

"I heard you was asking for me, what do you want?" asked Mystery man

"I wanted to talk to you about the graffiti that you left at my dad's shack," replied Jake

"Ok lil dude, listen keenly, I'm going to give you money to buy goods and you will bring me back 55% of your profit for the week every Friday at 5:00 pm and don't be late," said Mystery man

"Ok, whatever," said Jake

"Can I go now, my mom must be worried," Jake said angrily

"Let him go," ordered Mystery man

Jake burst through the door in anger thinking about how he will pull it off without his mom knowing. When he got outside he realized that he was familiar with the street they took him to as he sees an orange building complex his dad used to take him to get haircuts. He walked up the street and went straight to the shack where a patient mom was waiting for him.

"Where have you been boy?" questioned Sheril in a soft spoken tone

"Mom, I just took a walk, don't worry too much about it," answered Jake

They locked up the shack properly and headed home. They had some left over food from the shack so Sheril didn't bother to cook a meal when they reached home. They got home and headed straight to the shower. After showering Sheril reheated the food and they sat and ate. The next day Jake went to open the shack so the cooks could start prepare the meals while Sheril went to the hospital to visit Robert. While there at the hospital, she prayed for Robert to get better. Jake was at the shack, sanitizing tables and taking orders with a lot on his mind. Business was going good as normal but Jake's mind wasn't there. He really didn't want to do what Mystery man ask of him but he knew he had to do it for his family's safety. He was there carrying out his task when he got a visit from a special person, his face lit up the very moment. Its like the sight of her just took away all his worries.

"Hi Jake, I heard about your dad; I'm so sorry he had to go through that but I hope he get well soon," said Destiny

"Thanks Destiny, I hope so too," said Jake

"So how are you doing these days?" asked Destiny

"I'm trying to stay strong for my mom but I'm just praying that everything will be alright and dad will come home soon," replied Jake.

Destiny smiled at him and he smiled right back at her. After that she sat at one of the tables and he joined her; they were talking about going back to school and what they plan on doing when they finish high school. It was soon time for the lunch hour rush so Jake told Destiny he had to get to work and asked her if she wanted anything. She told him what she wanted and he took her order. He brought her order to the chef and he got her food at the very instant.

"Here you go Destiny," said Jake

"Thank you Jake," said Destiny

"You're welcome. Enjoy your meal," replied Jake as he walked off to take orders from people that was walking in.

As he was taking the orders he glimpsed one of the guys he saw at Mystery man's trap house. He continued to take the orders and then he went over to him and asked him what he was doing there. He told him to have a seat and whispered something to him.

"Mystery man send me with the money to give you, he said you know what to do with it," said the guy

He then handed Jake the paper bag with the cash and Jake placed it under his arm and head to the back of the shack where his dad's office is. He then placed the money in a draw at the bottom of a black desk that is in the office. He sat in there for a moment wondering if he's making the right choice by taking dirty money. He then brushed himself off and headed out back to the dining area. He continued to take orders and served customers. He really wanted to talk to his dad but his dad was still in a coma so he didn't know what move to make next. They finished off for the day at the shack at 4:30 pm and they put the closed sign on the entrance door while they cleaned up the dining area and kitchen and checked off the money. When they were finished they locked up the shack and went their separate ways. Jake went straight home; when he got home his mom was there preparing dinner for the two.

"Hi mom, how's dad doing?" enquired a concerned Jake

"He's still in a coma sweet heart but I have faith he will wake soon, how was work today darling?" asked Sheril

"It was ok, nothing bad happened at the shack," replied Jake

"Thank God, I'm so proud of you, you're so responsible," said Sheril to Jake

Jake just smiled and hugged his mom as tight as he could.

"I love you mom," he uttered

"I love you too son," replied Sheril

Jake then went upstairs to freshen up. He headed to the shower and then he got dressed and went back downstairs to have dinner with his mom. Sheril was setting the table for the two so he helped her with that. After that she shared out the food, they said their grace and had their dinner. They ate and had a long conversation then the both of them cleaned up the kitchen.

"I got that son, you don't have to do anything more; go get some rest," said Sheril

"Ok mom, goodnight I love you," said Jake as he walked upstairs to his room.

As he got to his room he laid in his bed and did some thinking. The next day was Friday so he planned to visit Mystery man. He fell asleep with his dad on his mind. When he woke in the morning, he brushed his teeth, took a shower and get dressed then went downstairs. Sheril wasn't out of bed yet so Jake fixed himself breakfast. He made some cereal, ate it and headed out to work. Sheril had planned to go to the shack too but Jake left out before her to set up tables and sort out the money to bring to Mystery man. He came up with an idea to bring Mystery man the same money he sent to him instead of taking it out of the profit. The money Mystery man sent is way more than 55% of the profit that the shack made for the week so he calculated it and put it aside until he was ready to make his move. He carried on with his regular activities as if everything was fine even though it wasn't. What he's doing with Mystery man is very illegal and he and his family could get in big trouble for such thing. Jake is a smart boy and he will be very careful with how he handles this. When Sheril reached and was doing her check she had no problem because Jake already did it. Everything ran smoothly and as soon as lunch time rush was over, Jake told his mom he's going for a walk and then he slipped in his father's office and took up the money and shove it in his pocket. He then hugged his mom and went straight through the gate and down the road towards where Mystery man resides. He reached his destination but had problem getting to Mystery man right away since his goons wouldn't let him up. They called Mystery man and then he gave them the go ahead to let him up. When he reached up there he saw Mystery man with a gun at a boy in his early teens head.

"Shut up, you snitch!" shouted Mystery man

"Please, I didn't tell on you," begged the boy

Jake didn't liked what he saw so he tried to stop Mystery man by calling to him.

"You're supposed to be inspiring the youths, not killing them!" yelled Jake

"Inspire -uh, youths don't want inspiration, they need food in their stomach so as long as they are hungry, I'll be eating. Youths literally beg me for work, they know what they are getting themselves into," replied Mystery man

"You know they can't do better and you take disadvantage of them, I know you were no good but now I realize you're truly the son of the devil," criticized Jake as he gives Mystery man a sharp look that could cut him if eyes had that power.

"Don't worry about it, just do what you have to do," replied Mystery man.

Jake was very disturbed so he handed Mystery man the bag with the money and rushed out of there.

"No, no, no, not so fast dude," shouted Mystery man as Jake busted through the door

Jake didn't care about what Mystery man was saying and walked away even though he tried to stop him. Jake was concerned about the youth he saw Mystery man abusing and was stuck between telling the police and forgetting about it. He wanted to do something about it but didn't want to risk putting his family's life in danger. Mystery man is known for taking lives when he feels like someone betrays him and Jake didn't want to suffer that fate. He was really bothered by what Mystery man was doing to the youth but he tells himself there's nothing he could do about it at the time. As he walked up the street hurriedly he could hear some men yelling at him trying to stop him.

"Stop him, don't let him get away," yelled one of the men

Jake heard and started running but as he was running one of the men ride up on him on a bike and shot him in his left leg twice. He fell to the ground in a slow motion as he cried out for his mom.

"Why did you shoot him, he didn't say you should harm him, he said we should catch him and bring him back," said one of the men

"Man, I didn't mean to but he was getting away," replied the man who shot him

Jake was left there and both men ride away on the bike fidgeting because they didn't know how to tell Mystery man that Jake got shot and was possible dead.

Jake was there bleeding out and then someone was driving by and saw him. The good Samaritan rushed out his car and took him up and place him in his car and drove him to the hospital .

-To be continued …