wiping tears, voice trembles Yo, you know this ain't where I pictured us chattin'. Helluva spot, huh?
Yeah, well... surprise, surprise. Never thought I'd see you here, Mom.
sniffs, trying to compose herself Look, I ain't here to judge or nothing. I just... I wanted to see if you were okay.
Well, yeah, I'm okay. Just been sitting around waiting for my lawyer. What about you? How's everything back home?
rolls her eyes Home? Honey, there ain't no home without you. But, you know, we're managing.
I'm gonna get out of here soon. They're dropping the charges.
leans forward, clasping her hands together Oh, thank goodness! Praise the Lord! You gotta start fresh, baby. Find a new path, you hear me?
Yeah, yeah I hear you. I need some money so I can get out of here.
pulls out a crumpled envelope from her bag Here, baby. It ain't much, but it's something to get you started. slides the envelope across the table
I take the envelope smile thanks mom I appreciate it
leans back, looking concerned Listen, I may have a solution for you. This friend of mine, he's a lawyer. He might be able to help you get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
Really? That'd be a game-changer. Do you think he can work his magic?
smirks Honey, I know he can. I've seen him work his tricks before. He's slick as a fox, that one.
I hug my mom thanks mom I love you
grabs mgesture's hand Look, baby, I know I've messed up in the past. I ain't proud of it, but I'm tryin' to make it right.
Well, you already made one mistake. It’s not like you’re perfect. I’m sure your friend is expensive. But I’ll pay him back later when I find a job.
waves her hand dismissively Honey, please. Don't worry about the cost. I'll handle it.
mgesture is released from jail thanks to Linda's lawyer friend, and starts a new life with her support
I walk into a job interview with two other people. I’ve never worked as a cashier before. We all pass and I get the job
claps her hands excitedly Hot diggity dog! Congrats, baby! You did it! jumps up and down in her seat
Thanks, Mom. Couldn't have done it without your help.
leans back, crossing her arms Hold up, baby. I didn't just help you get this job, I also got you an apartment!
Really? You're the best, Mom!
laughs, pulling out a key from her bag Well, you better get used to it, 'cause you're gonna be living in luxury, baby!
I go home to my new place. I look around and it’s a studio with a small kitchen, a couch, a bed, and a bathroom. It’s really nice. I sit on the couch and sigh. finally.
plops down beside mgesture, grinning Well, don't just sit there looking pretty. Let's celebrate!
How are things going with your business?
leans in closer, voice low and secretive Honestly, sweetheart, business ain't booming right now.
sighs heavily, looks down at her hands Yeah, it's just been tough, you know? Orders are slowing down, and I can't keep up.