After she made the call, I checked the house and had Erin and Blossom take the girls upstairs to get dressed.“Hello?”“Mr. O’Dell?”“None ot...her.”“This is Ms. Margaret Williams from the Department of Family Services. I have a court order to enter your property and your home for the purpose of investigating the living conditions of your children.”“One moment while I come out. Please have your IDs ready to be verified.”I cut off the intercom before she could make any reply. I checked the house to. Shiite, my Momma and me used to sleep with each other all the time Momma took my hands and placed them in hers, even though I had to let go of my lifeline that was Faith. Momma gave them a squeeze and smiled at me. At once all the anger and confusion from her was gone, it was as if she had lifted a great weight from her shoulders as well. Momma wasnt finished talking yet though Charity my baby, if were gonna live together under this roof were both gonna have no more secrets from each other, is. In no way was he officer material then. He was wild and a little crazy. This time he was ready and, if you are in a parade, why not lead it. His big concern was leaving his Muffy at home with a bun in the oven while he went off to play soldier. Jake stewed about it the rest of the day as he and his squad practiced immediate action drills on the large field next to the armory.When Jake told Melissa about the OCS offer, her reaction was typical Muffy.“You’re going, no question. You just aren’t. The attendant greeted us and told me it wasnice to see me again. I didn't know how he recognized me, but the lightthat last night must have been bad and I was hanging on Andy's arm.We walked down the street enjoying a smoke and each other. When we cameto the door we held each other in one long wet kiss. I wiped his lipsagain and redid my lip stick and hand in hand we entered. Everyone weknew was there. Johnnie, or the actor who was Johnnie, was the first togreat me. "I hope you can forgive me.