“I wish DJ was home.” My cousin and best friend can fix anything in my son’s eyes.
“I’ll tell you a secret,” Pops whispers into my ear.
Someone taps my shoulder, and I turn to see DJ in full dress uniform. I squeal and jump into his arms.
“UNCLE DJ!” Deacon jumps off the stage and runs for us.
“Please tell me you didn’t reenlist. I need you.” I grab the lapels of his Army uniform and shake him.
He picks up my son, and Deacon tells him before I can get the words out.
“Did you see my dad outside?” DJ’s face fills with anger.
He was the one who picked up the pieces Wolf left behind and put my ass back together. He shakes his head and kisses Deacon on the temple.
“Nah, little man, I didn’t but don’t worry. I’ll go find him.” He swats Deacon’s little butt to send him back to Davina.
“Wolf’s back?” He hisses, and I nod.
“Showed up this morning at the house. Pops almost choked him to death.” I sit down, and DJ follows.
“You losing your touch, old man. Don’t worry. I’ll finish the job for you.” He slips his arm behind mine, and Pops fist bumps him.
“Deacon Brooks.” The principal calls, and we watch, clap, and whistle for my baby.
It’s a perfect moment in time that I should be cherishing which has now been tainted by Franklin “Wolf” Hoss Jr.
THE END
