A Novel
by
Greg R Smith
New Points of ViewWillFann Publishing
“We dare you to write it!”
2011 Gregory R. Smith. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No part of this book may used or reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system—except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine, newspaper, or on the Web—without permission in writing from the publisher. For permission please contact:
Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and completeness of information contained in the book, we assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any inconsistency herein. Any slights of people, places or organizations are unintentional.
First printing 2011
Unless otherwise noted, scripture quotations are from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.
FIRST EDITION
Library of Congress Control Number: 2011937593TBD
Cataloging-in-Publication Data
The Trial of Jerry Sweeting
Gregory R. Smith, 1ST Edition
Library of Congress Control Number: 2011937593
1. Lesbian/Gay – 2. Fiction –Drama Comedy 3. Gay and Lesbian –United States/United Kingdom/Canada/France/Africa
ISBN: TBD EAN-13: TBD978-1463561413 10-1463561415
Edited by Tracy Bruce
Cover Designed by Joseph James Hall
Photography by Vladimir Cetinski
Questions for the Author - gregoryrsmith@yahoo.com
Book Orders, Permission, Speaking Request, New Authors
www.facebook.com/The Trial of Ms. Jerri Sweeting
ATTENTION WHOLESELLERS, UNIVERSITIES, COLLEGES, AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: Quantity discounts are available on bulk purchases of this book for educational or gift purposes, or as premiums for increasing magazine subscriptions or renewals. Special books or book excerpts can also be created to fit specific needs. For more information, please contact Greg Smith 250 Georgia Avenue SE, Suite 309, Atlanta, Georgia 30312 or gregoryrsmith@yahoo.com
Dedication
I dedicate this book to every same gender loving house-mother and -father. You’ve become the surrogate parent for children of God: “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” Take Your Bow!
Acknowledgments
This book would not be possible if it were not for the friends and colleagues who have laughed and made fun of my writing. Without them, I could never have written such a novel.
I am deeply humbled: I know that lonely feeling inside of how it feels to have people that you respect not respect you in return!
I am not writer, I am a storyteller!
Oliver Sweeting words alone could not express my utmost gratitude!
Joe Robinson thank you for your consistent encouragement!
To the Late Lynwood Bernard Jenkins, Your inspiration was always right on time!
The Family, The Story,
The Trial
|
The Morning before the Murder |
1 |
|
The Night of the Murder |
9 |
|
The Murder of Jeremiah Collins |
15 |
|
The Arraignment |
37 |
|
First Week after the Arraignment |
50 |
|
Week Three before The the Trial |
6757 |
|
Week Two Before before The the Trial |
7969 |
|
One Week Before before the Trial |
9081 |
|
Day One Of of The the Trial |
10395 |
|
Day Two Of of The the Trial |
153133 |
|
Day Three Of of The the Trial |
233196 |
|
Sunday Before before Day Day Four of tThe Trial |
247206 |
|
Day Four Oof tThe Trial |
257216 |
|
After tThe Trial |
297249 |
Introduction
The Trial of Jerry Sweeting is a drama/comedy of a fictional character of gay man living in the southSouth. Jerry has become the surrogate father for a racially mixed group of four four gay men and a transgender, all of whom all live with him in his home. The story originates around him Jerry being accused of the murder of Jeremiah Collins, whose mother happens is to be a local Christian Evangelist and has built her reputation on an anti-gay agenda.
Jerry noticed realized at an early age who he wasn’t like the other boys. Like but like so many others, he did no’t understand the nature of what his love for other same gender loving men meant in life. Jerry grew up in a strict Christian home with his devoted Christian mother, Ms. Betty Sweeting, and his older brother, Terrence Sweeting. Jerry loved his mother dearly and she loved him, but they would eventually become torn apart about over his sexuality.
Jerry Sweeting, aka Ms. Jerri Sweeting, becamwas e one the fiercest (aka Legendary) female impersonators when he was a performer. Ms. Jerry Jerri has owned Club BriSta-z Night Club (Brothers &Brothers & Sisters from A-Z) for fifteen years and dedicated it to his late partner, Tom Robinson.
Club BriSta-z is legendary for hosting the hottest female and male impersonator shows, while hot women and men clientele enjoy cheap cheap but powerful drinks that makes every body look better that at night and you sick that the next morning. His club is managed by Elijah, one of his sons from his blended family. Jerry also owns and operates his own Couture Dress Shop, where he spends most of his time living out his passion for fashion.
Ms. Jerry’s Jerri’s best friend in life is was a transgender, the legendary Ms. Vera Banks (aka Ms. Vera);. Yyes, she was is a true Diva, but also a smart business woman, and the owner of “Vera’s Books, Coffee & Tea Shop”. Ms. Vera is a smart mouthsmart-,mouth; a no no-non-sense transgender who doesn’t did not take anyone’s shit. This has made her and Ms. Jerry Jerri great compliments complements to one another. Ms. Jerry Jerri was provides more the sense voice of reasoning and understanding, while Ms. Vera metes out the justice. Now, don’t get me wrong, ; Ms. Vera could be a bitch, but she had has the heart of kitten until you crossed her, then at which time she became becomes a furious lion.
He Jerry lives in an old two-story, six bedroom house located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. Jerry’s club is managed by one of his extended sons Elijah, while Jerry devotes most of his time to the dress shop. Jerry has adopted taken into his heart and home four four other extended sons and a daughter. Ms. Vera calls them the Rainbow Family. His son, Elijah is African American, Chad is a White southern boy, Javier is Brazilian, Lee is Asian American and Marsha Petty is a young transgender. They all love Jerry as the father and mother they needed in their lives.
The This isbook tells the story of the complicated lives theythey all have together, while supporting their gay father during this trying time. The story is enhanced with the lively characters of Ms. Vera Banks, somewhat the a gay somewhat gay Auntie Maime type of character. Their dailystory lives provides drama, comedy, and suspense for the reader. I’m most proud of the characters of Ms. JerryJerri, Ms. Vera and Defense Attorney, Brenda Payne.
The other principal characters:
Jerry Sweeting, aka Ms. JerryJerri -: a A successful entrepreneur, separated estranged from his religious mother. Jerry but acts as the father and mother for five young people.his friends.
Ms. Vera, Jerry’s best friend –: A fierce southern gal and legendary divadiva working the stage. Owner Ms. Vera owns and operates of the local “Ms. Verya’s Books, Coffee & Tea Shop” andas well as manages tthe nightly entertainment at the club.
Elijah Jones, Black gay son –: He is aA sexy man with a kind heart, who’s trusted by many who’ve come to know him. Elijah’s but still in searching for of his purpose in life.
Chad McDonald, White gay son: – He is aA lively, vibrant southern Southern boy. His Chad’s father kicked him out of the house after his mother died.
Javier Rodriguez, Latino gay son –: He is aA tall, sexy tall man who migratedemigrated from Brazil. He Javier has a passion for the arts and loves to sculpt.
Lee Wong, Asian gay son: – He is aA fun fun-loving person and who wants to be a lawyer. His Lee’s mother was very abusive with him because of his effeminate manners.
Marsha Petty, young Young transgender daughter – She is a : A young transgender with a lot of fight in her. She aspires to be a dCouture Dress dDesigner just like Jerry. She is the baby of the group and the boys treat her like the little sister they never had. but s She can sometimes be a bit much.
Brenda Payne, Defense Attorney Brenda Payne: – A respected trial lawyer, a lesbian, and one another of Jerry’s best friends.
Trudance Dickey, District Attorney Trudance Dickey –: A new Assistant District AttorneyDistrict Attorney in town. He Trudance loves the camera and media spot tlight. He is forced to deal with his own bigotries during the prosecution of Jerry Sweeting.
Evangelist Hattie Mae Collins, Evangelist –: A no-nonsense evangelist for the Lord and tThe mother of murdered Jeremiah Collins. She is a no nonsense Evangelist for the Lord. SheHattie Mae hated hates Jerry and anything contrary to the word of God. She is a hot mess.
As a same gender loving people. , We we’re become the authorities authority when telling our stories of the moral complexities, set-backs, and temporary disappointments involving our families, relationships and communities. There is no scholar in the LBGT/SGL community that speaks to the community as one without racial, gender, or age biases. I have worked in the community for 25 years. I respect the host of moral complexities but I am very cautious when to I say I understand those moral complexities, in fear that it can might make me insensitive to new realities coming from very different life experiences.
Since the death of E. Lynn Harris, the community has lacked the literature to stimulate the minds of many readers. This book is about speaking to the hearts and minds of Asians, Black’s, Latino’s and White women and men in our community. The characters are everyday people, sometimes strong and sometimes weak, while addressing the daily struggles of life.
We are more than just the writings about our sexual fantasies or the relentless pursuit to conquer some rough thug or country boy. If you desire a healthy family, it is healthy necessary to constantly recreate and evaluate the images you have of healthy families, friends and relationships.
This is the story of a one family’s commitment to love each other while experiencing family fights, infidelity, abuse, social injustice, religious bigotry, and self-hatred.
By the time you will have started reading this book. W, we will be casting for the Stage Play. Yes, we are going to the stage with The Trial of Jerry Sweeting and then on to the big screen. That’s “THE SECRET” in action.
Morning Bbefore The the Murder
10:15am Saturday
May
29, 2010
It’sIt’s a beautiful morning in hot Atlanta on Memorial Day Weekendweekend. The gay kids are traveling the city in with their posse’s with their friends, living life to the fullestfull of life and looking to a have hot time in the ATL.
Ms. Ms. Jerry Jerri is in the kitchen cooking breakfast. His gay blended family of Lee, Chad, Javier, and Marsha are waking up after a night of hard partying. Elijah is sleeping late. hard “Morning, Lee, you have fun last night?” ?”
He Lee moans and places his head on the table. “Ahh!, Yesyes, indeed, and I’m am worn out. Ugh, ! I I’mam not going to do a thing today,” says he saysLee..
“Well don’t forget I need you to help down at the ‘Find the Cure for Cancer’ fundraiser.”
“Oh, my goodness, is that tonight?” Lee says replies in anguish.
“Yes, Sirree, and I expect to see you there,.” replies Ms. Jerri.
Chad comes entersinto the kitchen,. Hhe greets Ms. Jerry Jerri with a soft kiss on the cheek; in a playful way he runs his hand through Lee’s hair. Lee try’s tries to swat it away and Chad laughs. “Good morning, sirSir,!” says As Ms. Jerry Jerri, subtle smile with a subtle smile while looking over his shoulder., “My, my, my, don’t we look like an all all-nighter.”
While Chad pours some orange juice; , Ms. Jerryi is looklooksing on as if he knows something is strange. “YesYeah, I am so hung over and I have a ton of things to do before the fundraiser tonight,” says Chad, betweenas he sips of his O.J..
“Oh, really?! I was just talking to Lee about him helping you out tonight. He is at your service if you need any help,” say Ms. JerryJerri. Lee slightly holds up his hand, acknowledging that he’s available.
Jerry while While talking to Chad, Jerry places a glass of water on the table and plops’ in two Alka seltzer Seltzer tablets, and kisses Lee on the head, and talking talks like a baby baby. “The baby wore out, huh!”
Javier comes into the kitchen, kisses Jerry on the cheekcheek and in a playful way runs his hand threw through Lee’s hair, ; and again, heLee attempts to swat it away. i“Bom Dio,” says Javier. “I feel great this morning! Our fundraiser tonight is going to be huge success. Ms. Jerri, you should see some of the wonderful art pieces we have for the silent auction.”
“Buenos Dias”, says Javier. “I feel great this morning. Our fundraiser tonight is going to be huge success. Ms. Jerry you should see some of the wonderful art pieces we have for the silent auction.”
Chad’s standing against the counter drinking his orange juice. Ms. Jerryi is smiling, and Lee still has his head on the table. “Javier, you’re are doing a wonderful job with the Art art Silent silent Auctionauction. Lee is going to help y’allawl out tonight,” says Ms. JerryJerri.
Javier produces a beautiful smile. “Great, I need all the help I can get tonight. We’re are going to raise a ton of money for Ccancer rResearch.”
Marsha comes makes her way into the kitchen armed with one of her latest designs,. “Hey, yawly’all! What do you think? I made this dress last night.”
Jerry snaps his fingers and responds, “Oh, my! That’s so fierce, MarthaMarsha!, I love the beads and the lace, girl. Iit’s gorgeous with a capital G!.”
Chad takes another sip of sipping his orange juice, and then, ponders aloud. “It’s All all Rightright! . A little gaudy, though, don’t you think?” Marsha slowly folds the dress and places it over the chair, giving Chad a real sly look - onelook. Yeah! One of those them I- am- about- to- read- you looks.,
“UhhUgh! Did you have fun last night?” Ms Ms. Jerry’s Jerri’s over the stove cooking, while Javier stirs the Alka Sseltzer and tryingtries to get Lee to drink it.
Chad, still working on his huge glass of orange juice, responds, “Yes, Sirreesirree!” while drinking his orange juice.
Marsha comes back, “I bet you did, ! You kept me up all night.” Chad almost spits up his the orange juice. Jerry, Javier, and Lee Lee with his head still with his head still downon the table, laugh together.
Jerry says, “Marsha, girl, there you go being messy..” While the kids are laughing, Elijah drags himself into the kitchen.
While they are laughing Elijah comes in the kitchen.Jerry continues, “Marsha, when you go out later, I want you to take that bag of groceries over to Ms. Bryant’s for me. Just knock on the door and leave them. Ok, Hon?”
Marsha gives a coy smile and responds to Ms. Jerri. “Ok, I will.”
“Marsha when you go out later, take that bag of groceries over to Ms. Bryant’s for me. Just knock on the door and leave them. Okay Hun.” says Ms. Jerry. Marsha smiles and responds “Okay! I will”
Elijah greets Jerry with a soft kiss on the cheek, . “Hey, Ms JerrMs. Jerriy,,” he says, and Jerry smiles. Elijah rubs Lee’s head, and talksing some baby talk to Lee. like a baby “That boo boo-boo is hung over,.” hHe then sees the dress that Marsha made, . “That’s fierce, Marsha.” .”
MMarsha licks sticks out her tongue at Chad and mocks him. Marsha mocks Chad “Hey, Mr. Uh-, Uh -Uuuuhhhh.” While pouring Elijah pours himself some coffee and they all laugh.
Jerry, with a smirk on his face, slightly looks over his shoulder, “Chad, you still have company here?”
“Yeah, it’s Michael!” says Chad.
“Well we about ‘bout to eat breakfast, so go and tell Michael to freshen up and come on down and eat with us.” .”
Marsha yells out, “Michael! Ms Ms. Jerry Jerri said bring your ass down here and eat with us, you. sSly country ass!” Again, everybodyThey all laughs. .
“I done told tol’ you about ‘bout playing with my words.” Jerry says to Marsha. . “You have been around ‘round Ms. Vera too long.” They are all laughingter continues. as
Marsh tries to tickle Chad, who is trying hard not to laugh. Chad says, “Move, Marsha! Stop playing! It’s not funny!”Marsha try’s to tickle Chad who’s trying not to laugh “Move Marsha, stop playing, its not funny!”
Jerry tells them kids, “Need I remind yawl y’all it’s the first of them month and my mortgage needs to be paid. And how do I want my money?”
They all respond in unison, as if they’ve practiced this line for years. “In a white envelope with your name on it, and the month it’s is for. “”
Jerry says, “When?”
They respond again in unison, “The 3rd of the month.” Lee lifts his head up, and reaches into his pocket, and gives Jerry a white envelope and puts his head back down. .
Jerry responds, “Thank you, Lee, baby” He Mimicking he has a bra on puts the envelope inside his shirt, sliding it into an imaginary cleavage. Jerry turns to the chorus and says, “That’s not everythingit! ” says Ms. Jerry, “AndWhat else?” ?”
They all respond “If it’s late, don’t make an excuse. just Just include the late fee.” Jerry chuckles with They the othersall laugh. while Jerry chuckles.
Marsha decides to get sassy with Ms. JerryJerri, “Now, Ms. Jerry Jerri, we know you ain’t got no mortgage.”
Chad responds to Ms. Jerry Jerri, “I won’t have mine until Wed.” nesday.”
Marsha, is still being feeling sassy, says “I don’t understand. If we your kids, how you have us paying rent. ? What kind of parent is that?”
Jerry, with his standing back at the stove, looks around with an, I know she is not talking to me look on his face. The boys all move to another side of the room together, ; Lee lifts his head, gets stands up, and moves with them.
Jerry turns around and pours himself a cup of coffee and takes a seat at the table. The boys boy’s finishes bringing the food to the table, . Jerry replies, “A very loving, caring, and teaching parent, Marsha. When you moved in here, I agreed to help you, not take care of you. The only places you can live for free is are a jail cell and homeless shelter.”
Chad goats goads himJerry on, “Read Read her Ms. JerryJerri, Read read her!”
Jerry continues, using in a slightly aggressive tone. “Don’t you ever go and stay in someone’s house and not offer something while you there. If you have the ability to pay something, at least they know you are’re trying. There is a difference between free and freeloading. In life, nothing is for free free – somebody’s paid for it.. “”
Michael comes into the kitchen. They all speak at once. “Hey, Michael!”
He responds, “Good morning, everyone.” He kisses Chad and then greets Ms. JerryMs. Jerri with a hug and a kiss.
Jerry greets him, “Good morning, RogerMichael.” Chad get’s him you some coffee.
While Marsha’s smacking on a bagel, she says, “Michael, Chad is late with his rent this month. What you going to do?”
Chad reacts with agitation, “Marsha will you stay out of my business, ! Yyou get on my damn nerves.” .”
Marsha continues smacking on the bagel, “That’s my life’s assignment assignment - to get in and on your nerves and stay in your business.” She’s still chewing the on her bagel.
Michael responds “No problem! Ms Ms. Jerri, y is it okayok if I write you a check today?. “
In unison, with the exception of Chad, the chorus of kids say, “In a white envelope with your name on it and the month it is for.” They’re quite close to hysterical laughter, all laugh including Jerry.
Michael respondsanswers cheerfully. ” Okay”Ok, I’ will bring it by the fundraiser tonight.” .”
Marsha turns to Chad “See that, honey, I saved you again.” She flips Chad’s hair and he swats at her and mumbles.
Chad approaches Michael and softly touches him on his hand, “No, Michael, you don’t have to do that.”
Michael responds “No, boo Boo, it’sit is okayall right. . I know you have had to spend a lot of your money for medical school tuition and for books.” Michael takes Chad’s hand to his lips and kisses themit. “I want to help you, ! I am so proud of you, Dr. Chad McDonald.”
Marsha just can’t help herself. “Oh, look at that real relationship stuff.” Marsha approaches them while they are hugging. “Michael, can I date your brother, your uncle, your cousin. H, hell, I’ll will even take your father. Just gGive him a littlesome Viagra. “Pow!!” Iit's on and cracking!” Laughter fills the room.They all laugh.
Michael grabs Marsha and begins to tickle her until Marsha wriggles away from his grasp. and He starts to chase her around the kitchen. “Oh, you got jokes, you got jokes.”
While s She runs around the kitchen, she’s and laughing and she screams outing, “Help, help, rape, robbery, breach of homeland security, a bad weave!e.” Again, everybody They all laughs, . Marsha and Michael stop and hug each other. “I should have asked for the car payment, too,” !” Chad gives her a dirty don’t go there look.
ii“says Marsha. “Marsha, I’ll say it again: you have been around ‘round Ms. Vera too long,” says Ms. JerryMs. Jerri. She continues, “Ok, I have to get out of here soon. Ms. Patti needs me to help her with some things around the house. Come on, y’all, let’s eat this food before it gets cold. Elijah, please say grace.”
Okay I have to get out of here soon; Ms. Patti needs me to help her with some things around the house. Come on yawl lets eat this food before it gets cold. Elijah says grace.
Elijah says aloud, “Lord, we thank You for this food we are about to partake of. We thank Youyou for one more morning. We ask that yYou continue to bless the cook and those whose life he continues to touch. Let this food and this love nourish our minds, our bodies, and our souls. In His name we pray, Amen.”
Lord we thank you for this food we are about to partake of. We thank you for one more morning. We ask that you continue to bless the cook and those who life he continues to touch. Let this food and love be for the nourishment of our mind, bodies and our soul. In the name we pray Amen.
11:45am Saturday
May
29, 2010
Jerry’s in the kitchen, cleaning up after breakfast. Everyone else has left to begin their busy day. Jerry’s humming his favorite gospel hymn, I Am So Satisfied:
Jerry is alone in his kitchen; everyone has left to begin their busy days. Jerry gets a visit from his guardian Carl. Carl’s a good friend of Ms. Jerry and Ms. Vera and has gone to be with the Lord but was assigned to Jerry. Jerry’s standing in the kitchen humming his favorite gospel hymn “I am so satisfied”.
I am so satisfied I am so satisfied,
I am so satisfied,
With my savior!
He means more to me.
Than anything, anything.,
That this world,
Could ever offer me.
Ms. JerryMs. Jerri stops for a brief moment and begins to reflect on a conversation he once had with his guardian Angel Carl. Carl was a good friend to both Ms. Jerri and Ms. Vera and has since gone on to be with the Lord. Carl was assigned to watch over Jerry and to be his guardian angel. He Jerry knows someone is in the room with him, but he does n’ot appear to be alarmed. “Hey, Carl, is that you?”
CarlHe responds, “Yeah, Jerry. I am so proud of you.”
Jerry assumesreplies, “Oh, you like what we’ have done to the club? I have plans to build a larger dressing room and expand the stage and dining room area…”-”
Carl cuts off Ms. JerryMs. Jerri off, . “Jerry, the time has come.”
Ms. JerryMs. Jerri has a funny look on his face, . “Oh my Lord, but I’m still young! I mean, I really want to be with the Lord, but does it have to be right now?”
Carl chuckles. “No, Jerry, the Lord is not calling you home.” .”
Jerry wipes his brow and sigh’s in relief, . “Whoo! Thank God... ! I mean… okayok.”
“Jerry, we all have an angel assigned to each of us. I was assigned to you the first night I met you in the hospital,.” says Carl.
Jerry, in a soft voice barely above a whisper, responds, “Yes, I remember that night. I almost died that night. That crazy Richard Higginbotham tried to kill me. I was on death’s door that thennight.” Jerry pauses for a moment to thank God. .
“Yeah, Jerry, the lord Lord was watching over you,” says Carl.
“Carl, you were a God send.” Jerry starts speaking even more slowly “Oh, but I guess you were sent.” Jerry with has a curious look on his face. “What ever happened to that crazy Richard?”
“He is’s here with us. He was just recently assigned to a young man,” says Carl.
“What! How in the hell did he make it; ? he He almost killed me. He’s is real lucky I wasn’t not at the gate because he would have been denied access….... Ggreat big D..E.N.I.E.D.”
Carl chastens Jerry, . “Now, Jerry, you know better than to judgeJudge. “’JudgeJudge not for ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again’.” Jerry looks up to the heavens while Carl continues, For what you measure by “In God’s house, He knows everything about all of us, Jerry, and knows why we act out the way we do. He knew us all in our mothers’ wombs. There are no surprises with God Almighty.”
you shall also be measured” Jerry looks up to the heavens like here we go. “In God’s house he knows everything about all of us Jerry and knows why you act out the way we do. He knew us all in our mother’s womb. There are no surprises with God Almighty.”
Jerry’s standing holds his head down while pressing firmly on the sink,. “Carl, you’re not about to get deep this morning are you?” ?”
Carl chuckles, “Jerry, God knows why we act out, and where it began.” Jerry looking around the room like her he go, “Some people get hurt by others and repeat their hurt towards others who are only trying to love them. There is a period for feeling hurt and there is a time to heal from the hurt. Richard was hurting inside.”
Jerry responds, “Oh you deep today, . Yes, Sirreesirree, deeper than Jesus. Tell the Lord I said "’Hey, BooBoo.’" “ Jerry looks up, .
“Tell him yourself, Jerry,” says Carl.
Jerry responds “You really get on my nerves sometimes, Carl.” Jerry mutters under his breath . (mocking Carl)” Tell him yourself, Jerry,, t tell him yourself.”
“Jerry , there are some people coming into your life that you will have an opportunity to serve,”.” says Carl.
Jerry responds, “Carl, you know I would do anything for you. When you died and left me the club and this big beautiful house, I said to God, ‘Hhow could I ever repay Yyou?’ Well, Carl, who are these people? What do you want me to do for them?”
”
“Well who are these people? What do you want me to do for them?” asks Jerry. Carl responds, “They’re already with you, but a storm is coming brewing. Jjust be prepared yourself to be in place for them. Let your heart lead you, Jerry.”
Jerry’s gets starts to feel a little feisty, . “See, there you go, being deep again..... Will you tell me what I need you to know? Carl?, Carl?... Are you there, Carl?”
The Night Night Before of tThe he Murder
11:30pm
Saturday
5/29/2010
11:30 pm Saturday
Later on that in the evening at Club BriSta-z, the performers are preparing for the evening show. The music is bumping, the kids are running, kicking, and falling out on the floor. The DJ, Chris Johnson, is taking the kids to another level like no other DJ can .
“I want to see to somebody run across the dance floor,. I want to see bitches fall out, . I want some make-up running! …tTake that shirt off!…t Take it off! …nNow, kick, ! Andand kick, kick, and spin, and falspin, fall! Sl…and strike a pose…n! Now get up and walk, walk, walk, and pose” This is the hot ATL bitches…! Iif it’s not here, it does n’ot exist…! In the ATL, we don’t follow trends…., wWe set them!”
Ms. JerryMs. Jerri is owns of night club owner of one of the hottest clubs in the city and Elijah manages the club with both charm and a strong arm. The lines outside are going around the corner. Elijah keeps remindremindsing the staff, “We have company.” !”
Javier & Lee approach ases Elijah is trying to speak over the loud funky grooves of a Sanford and Son remix. Lee announces, “This place is mad hot tonight!.”
Elijah saysreplies, “I know, you better get your life bBoo…! Oh, I am, I am… heeeyyyy!,” Javier dances off to the floor, leaving Lee with Elijah. Security approaches Elijah to discuss Elijah about a situation in the parking lot. Elijah excuses himself and situation outside and he graciously follows them guard to check it out. Lee joins Javier on the dance floor..
MeanwWhile, in the club dressing room, the performers are frantically preparing; it’ is almost nearly Showtimeshow time. Club BriSta-z is known for giving some of the best shows in the country and tonight they know they’ll have company from all over the country. The visitor expectations expectations are high. and Club BriSta-z has sets the bar. The girls live for leaving the kids breathless, excited, and cheering standing on their feet with cheers..
Ms. Vera, Ms. JerryMs. Jerri’s best friend for over twenty years, manages the nightly show. She also owns the a bookstore specializing inlocal LBGT bookstorematerial. Ms. Vera… is a reading, cutting divadiva. She comes inenters the dressing room just as tThe performers have just come off the stage. and t They can hear the audience is screaming, andstanding on their feet cheering, its backstage is total pandemonium.
“All right now! You ladies peed Yes, peed, honey! Ms. Diamond, girl, what’s with you and your titties?” asks Ms. Vera.You
ladies peed, Yes peed honey! Ms. Diamond girl what’s with you and your titties?”
Ms. Diamond is another long-time good friend of Ms. Vera and Jerry. She performs at the club and but also runs her owna Concierge concierge Serviceservice. Ms. Diamond and Ms. Vera are always clowning and (joking) with each other.
Ms. Diamond replies to Ms. Vera, “Oh, my tits tittsjust keep trying to jump out. ! Oh yeah, and Courtney, honey, you need to do a better job of tucking honey. Your jewels were just all over the place.”
Courtney’s Courtney, one of the newer cast members of the showperformers,. Courtney responds, “Girl, I done told you about looking at me like that. I don't dike.” .”
Ms Ms. Diamond says to Courtney, “Miss Thing, I know you think your jewels plopping out isjewels plopping out are cute, bitch, but this is a classy show.”
Arthur Davidson, another is a longtime friend of Ms. Vera and Jerry, is backstage. Arthur and Ms. Diamond are good Judy's’. Arthur owns and operates his owna successful delivery service byduring the day. He’s 52 years old, has good credit, is debt-free, owns his own home, and drives the latest model Mercedes Benz. He’s never even brought a woman home to visit his mother. He is the only one in the gang who’s not out to his parents. The girls tease him about it because he thinks his mother doesn’t know. Arthur defends his Judy, Ms. Diamond, by saying “We’re classy, you’re trashy.”He’s a 52 years old successful
business man, debt free, good credit with his own home and the latest model Mercedes Benz and has never brought a woman home to visit his mother. He is the only one not out to his parents. They are always teasing him about it because he thinks his mother does not know. Arthur joins in with his good Judy, Ms. Diamond, “We classy, you’re trashy.”
Courtney throws a some lipstick at Arthur. Arthur, who ducks just in time to avoid getting smeared with the glossy apple-red lipstick, and says indignantly, ’s reaction, “Bitch, who you think you are? threw something at…I will kick your ball -hanging ass.” Hhe gets uprises to approach storm her, but some of the other performers get between them.
Ms. Diamond chimes in while still removing her make-up, . “Courtney, girl, just so you know, honey, if you come for my sistersista, you coming for both of us. I just want to go on record, girl, so when you get knocked down you wwon’tant look surprised.”
Ms. Vera comes weaves her way across the room, . Her shrill voice comes out. “Stop it! I said stop, damn damn it.!”
Arthur speaks up, to defend himself. “Ms. Vera, she started it, talking about...” -” Ms. Vera raises her hand to cuts Arthur off. .
Ms Ms. Diamond refuses to let it go. “That trick is all upset. I was just trying to tell her to tuck and roll she got all funny.”
“That trick upset. I was just trying to tell her to tuck and roll she got all funny.”
Ms. Vera lets them have it, . “Now, both of of yawl y’all, hush! Yawl Y’all been sista's for years and still falling out over some dumb shit. Yawl Y’all should know better by now. These young performers, they need for you to be set an example. Ms Ms. Diamond and Arthur, yawl y’all need to stop playing in front of these young kids. That’s why they don’t respect you.”
Ms. Vera’s comments are not sitting well with Ms. Diamond. Her head is circling and she’s waving her finger back and forth in the air. “See, Ms. Vera, girl, you got it all wrong. I was just trying to tell the little-”
Ms. Diamond is not well with Ms. Vera comments, she waving her finger back and forth in the air, “See Ms. Vera girl you got it all wrong. I was just trying to tell the little…” Ms. Vera stops her in the middle of her sentencecuts her off. “Stop it, stop it! You see right there is where you wrong, honey. If you’ are the an child elders, how you expect them to respect you how if you going gonna to call them bitches? and then expect them to respect you. You see I don’t be calling these young kids ‘Ms….. So-and-So’. You have to be a Divadiva and to earned that title.”
“Those bitches are always messing with me; . I can’t stand their asses,” says a pissed Courtney.
Ms. Diamond approaches Courtney, swaying her head from side to side, one hand on her hip, the other hand in the air and waving wagging his her finger.. “Look, little Ms Ms. Thing, I will kick-”
Ms. Vera steps in between them, . “Now, Ms. Diamond, girl, I done told you. -“”
Courtney cuts off Ms. Vera and tries to push her out of the way. Ms Ms. Vera pushes Ms. Diamond into her seat, and then turns to Courtney and begins to scold her. “Courtney, girl, Courtney, girl! I am your elder, honey. I have nothing but love, respect, and concern for your well well-being,. sSo when I tell you not to do something, not only do need you to listen but you need to do it. Do you hear me? If you want to be good at this craft, honey, then you need to listen to your elders! Not only that, and the elderss needs to listen, too.”
As Ms. Vera looks over atlooks over to Ms Ms. Diamond,Diamond, then turns back to Courtney. “Honey, doing drag is harder then than being a fag. , ‘Cause cause even the fags hate you most of time. You are a beautiful person but you can’t go around ‘round fighting somebody people every time they try to read you. The key word in that is ‘“try’.” Girls catch it. If you want to be a divadiva, you don’t fight people, . yYou have to learn to read theirer ass for filth. So, the next time they “’try”’, you, remember the key word is ‘“try”’. cCatch it?” Ms. Vera snaps (while snapping her finger). “They’ll think twice before rolling up on you with some stupid shit. You hear me, Courtney?” they will think twice before
rolling up on you with some stupid shit. You hear me Courtney.
Ms. Vera walks over too Ms. Diamond. “Now, Ms. Brianna Diamond over here still mad at her momma because she didn’t get a GI Joe with a Kung kung Fu fu grip when she was a child. That’s i In addition to the bitch having three nuts.” They allEverybody – except for Ms. Diamond – laughs. with the exception of Ms. Diamond Sshe’s sitting in the chair with steam coming from her face.
Briana responds, “Ffuck you, Ms. Vera.” but Sshe can’t resist the a chuckle. “See Ms. Vera, you should not be like that. Girl, did you tell somebody I been tapping tappin’ data ass?”
“Ms Ms. Diamond, let me tell you something, girl. If I did let you get it-.” As she Ms. Vera pounds her fist on the table. “If I did give you the honor, you sly country bitch.-” SheMs. Vera is still ppounding the table. “-t The only thing you are going to do, Is is wonder, how did you miss heaven?” Ms. Diamond gives her the finger. “Courtney, honey, Ms. Diamond’s kitty’s so big. I was playing it one night and put one finger in. Then I put two fingers in. Then I put my hand in, girl. Then I put my arm in. Then I got up, girl, and took about seven steps back and rushed that kitty and dove right in. I’m in her kitty pounding stuff, kicking stuff. Then I look up, and here comes this dude with a flash light. I say, ‘Damn, man, what you doing in here?’ He say ‘As soon as I find my keys, we can drive up out this muthafucka’!”
Courtney honey, “Ms. Diamond kitty so big. I was playing it one night and put one finger in. Then I put two fingers in. Then I put my hand in girl. Then I put my arm in. Then I got up girl and took about seven steps back and rushed that kitty and dove in. I’m in her kitty pounding stuff, kicking stuff. Then I look up her comes this dude with flash light. I say damn man what you doing in here. He says as soon as I find my keys we can drive up out this mother fucka!”
Ms. Brianna Diamond throws a garment sequined top at Ms. Vera; and they all both begin to laugh and then y greet each other with a hug. Ms. Diamond goes over to Courtney and hugs and kisses him on the head “I am sorry, honey, you know you my sweetie.”
“I am sorry too, Booboo.”
Jerry comes entersinto the dressing room. He’s showing real incredible excitenthusiasmed. “Ladies, the show was off the chain. ! All the tables were taken and we still had guests left We had standing. room only and tThe bar and food sales were off the chart, too!.”
Ms. Diamond says, “Does that mean....”-”
“Yes, that means I will’ll have a little extra suminsumin somethin’, somethin’ for your workon tonight. If I get blessed, I want to bless y’all, tooawl also.” They all begin cheeringJerry is overwhelmed with cheers from the performers.
Courtney says, “All right Ms. JerryMs. Jerri!”
Jerry speaks turns to Courtney. “Honey, I can never forget how rough it is, trying to live on dollar tips. I appreciate all of you, and when I do well, we all do well. That’s love, honey. “”The drag scene is a tough business, with most of the girls living on tips and tricks. Jerry and Ms. Vera encourage them to better themselves in life and open their own business of some kind. The countless dangers of walking the streets leave many homeless, beaten, or just plain emotionally worn down.Honey, I will never forget how ruff it is trying to live on dollar tips. I appreciate all of you and when I do well we all do well. That’s love honey.”
The drag scene is a tough business with many of the girls leaving on tips and tricks for the evening. Jerry and Ms. Vera encourages them to do better for themselves in life and open their own business. The countless dangers of walking the streets leave many homeless, beaten or emotionally worn down.
Jerry approaches Ms. Vera and kisses her on the forehead. Ms. Vera says, “Hey, Ms. JerryMs. Jerri…, child child, I made some low low-down collards today, girl.”
Jerry replied, “Well! , why didn’t bring me any.? You know how I love your collards!”
Ms. Vera tells Jerry, “I had to rush out, girl. My little friend came by before work and served motherMother.” She snaps her fingers, . “Come by the house with me and get you a couple of bowls..” “
Ms. JerryMs. Jerri responds, “Can’t tonight! . I have to get home and get some rest so I can get up early and work on this a dress for this woman she who ordered at the last minute.” .”
Ms. Vera asks, “Another prom dress for one of Keisha friends? Where’s is she going to school?” ?”
“Spellman, honey…. I am so proud of her,” says Jerry.” .
“You should be, and I’m sure she is proud of you., too.” Jerry smiles, Jerry has a smile on his face. “Jerry, you have stuck with by your brother and his family through his drug addiction and him having a issues with you being gay,” says, Ms. Vera.
“Now, now, Ms. Vera, let’s not spoil the evening with that stuff. I have to get on home.” Ms. Vera chuckles in her seat and Jerry gives her a hug. “I’ll see you later, Boo.”
I will see you later boo.
“You want me to drop you off, Jerry?”
.
“No thanks, booBoo. Elijah’s gonna take care of the club stuff. I’m going to walk. It’s a nice evening. I’m going to walk.”Elijah is taking care of the club stuff.
“Ok. You know you my best friend in the world.”
Okay…You know you’re my best friend in the world.
“No, girl, I am’m your only friend. Can’t nobody else stand you!” They chuckle, and Ms. Vera tosses that same sequined top at Jerry as he leaves the room.
“
They chuckle and Ms. Vera throws a garment at Jerry as he leaves the room.
The Murder Murder of Jeremiah Collins
Jeremiah Collins
2:45am
Sunday
5/30/2010
It’s a beautiful Atlanta late night as Jerry walks down Cypress Street on his way home from Club BriSta-It’s a beautiful, late night in Atlanta as Jerry walks down Cypress Street on his way home from Club BriSta-z. This street has always been known for hustlers and tricks. The neighborhood association has filed numerous complaints with the authorities about the male soliciting and increasing car vandalism. Law enforcement officials have set up sub-stations in the community. The new high rise office buildings and high-priced condominiums have created a less hospitable level, especially for lesbian, gay men, and transgenders.
z.
This street is always consumed with hustlers and tricks. The local neighborhood association has filed complaints with the local authorities about the male soliciting and the increase in car vandalism. Local law enforcement officials have setup sub-stations in the community. The new high rise office buildings and high priced condoms have created a less tolerant level especially for lesbian, gay men and transgenders.
Jerry is approachingnears two City of Atlanta City cops while walking their beat. Jerry’s continues to singhumming to himself as they come towards himapproach. When As he gets closer, the officers start begin to laughing at the sight of and looking in the direction of Jerry. Jerry overhears one of the officers use the word “faggot”. As they get closerCloser yet, Jerry hears another one of the other officer blurt out, “I can’t stand these fucking homos!”
Jerry becomes more alertpays more attention about to what’s going on around him. He’ is all too familiar with The Atlanta Police Department’s Red DawgDog ’s officer’s’ abusive treatment towards the same gender lovingLGBTQ community. The officers are blockquickly approaching Jerry, he is blocked in on both sides, lessening eliminating the chances of him having getting the chance to get out away fromof their grasp.
He is approached by Officer Clarence Dunwoody, one of thosea redneck, country- slurring, rednecks, chicken chicken-shit shit-ass yokel cops, out from the deepest part of the reddest part ofrural Georgia. with a deeply accented voice says, “Where you going, boy?””
Jerry feels he feels he must stand his ground. When you’ve have walked the streets alone, night after night, getting in and out of cars by yourself;, you know smart smart-mouth- ass cops are noaren’t any different than a non-paying trick who’s trying to pull a fast one. Jerry replies, “That’s none of your business, Officer.”
different than a no paying trick trying to pull a fast one. Jerry responds “That’s none of your busy.”
Officer His Dunwoody’s partner is rookie Officer Terry Cobb, who is a rookie withhas a timid look about himself. , just likeLike the a kid who’s that’s doing something anything to just get alongfit in. Officer Cobb says, “Hey don’t be a smart smart-ass, you little queer.” The officer chuckleThe officers chuckle at this power-play.s, tThey both look like two dicks out of place at a pussy festival.
Jerry is a little more than irritated., “Is there something wrong? Why are you trying to harass me? I’ am just on my way home.”
Officer Dunwoody gets in his Jerry’s face “Yeah, Yeahyeah! Are yYou out here trying to sell some of that nasty black ass of yours?” He grabs Jerry by the collar “Don’t you ever take that tone with me, you little bitch.,” he continues. He hits slugs Jerry in the stomach twice, . Jerry grasps for breath and begins to fall to the grown ground, but Officer Dunwoody holds him up and begins to drown slam power blows into Jerry’s body.
Officer Cobb cringes when he sees his partner throw such forceful blows, carrying showing sucha real hatred. Jerry falls against the wall, while Officer Cobbhe leans down to Jerry like heas if he approves of partner’s action. “Show us some ID.”
Jerry realizes it’s a classic case of “good cop/bad cop” between these officers. He remains strong and stands his ground, although he’s deeply in pain. “Why do I need to show you ID? I haven’t done anything.”
Jerry still being strong, standing his ground but in pain responds “Why do I need to show you ID? I have not done anything.”
The homophobic Officer Dunwoody, with his homophobic predisposition, grabs Jerry and pushes slams him back up against the wall hard. “Did you hear him, fairy? Sshow us your some god damn IDidentification.” !” He hits Jerry with forceful body shot to the ribs. Jerry cries out in sheeerar agony, as tears begin to roll down his facecheeks.
As if it’s some sort of game to Officer Dunwoody, he grabs Jerry and puts him in a choke hold. Once the officer has Jerry subdued, he snatches Jerry’s bag and flings it over to his partner. Officer Cobb digs through the bag and finds what he was after. “Well, look at what we have here, a ‘Mr. Jeremy Sweeting’.” Officer Dunwoody squeezes Jerry harder while Jerry continues to gasp for breath.
Officer Dunwoody puts Jerry into a choke hold like it’s a game, while he has
Jerry pinned to the wall, he grabs Jerry bag and throws it to his partner.
Officer Cobb poorly trained ass, “Well look at what we have here a Mr. Jeremy Sweeting.” Officer Dunwoody pushes Jerry harder against the wall and Jerry just grunts.”
Officer Dunwoody lets go of Jerry and being a smart assdisplays his bigotry by wiping his hands on Jerry’s pants, . “Or, is that Ms. Sweeting?” The dumb assescops are both laughing. Officer Dunwoody “I just can’t stand these faggots. It’s against God’s nature and traditional family values.”
Officer Cobb who neglectss everything all the training he’s has been recently been trained forthrough in at the police academy. He gets close to in Jerry’s face., “We’re are going to let you go, but you’d better watch yourself. This neighborhood has many lots of accidents. You hear me?” He seems to imply something other than bad traffic situations.
A young ladyfemale voice howler’s hollers out. , taking theThe officers looked by surprise.shocked “Hey, Officers, that’s Mr. Jerry. He’s a he is a local business owner, a tax-payer, and is a good community citizen.”
Officer Dunwoody doesn’t appear to care. , “Young lady, apparently you don’t know the difference between ‘good’ and ‘trash’. This here’s trash.”
The young ladywoman stands her ground. “Well, I will tell what I do know. I know that without probable cause, you have no right to treat him like that, either physically or verbally.” She sounds as if she might be a lawyer, sSpeaking in a very such a confident voice mannersounding like a lawyer.
Officer Cobb gets nervous and grabs his partner by the arm, . “Hey, Clarence, just let him go. Let’s move on.”
Officer Dunwoody shoves Jerry and rolls his eyes at the young ladywoman. He gets in Jerry’s face and points his finger at him, . “You better watch Watch yourself. this This can be a dangerous neighborhood for you queers.” He then turns to the woman and says, “Young lady, don’t piss me off!”
As Officer Dunwoody hits Jerry. The young lady comes to Jerry’s aid and has a few choice words for the redneck cop as she helps “You are such an asshole.” Officer Dunwoody, “Young lady don’t piss me off”
She
respondsShe replies, “Or what…? yYou are blatantly in such violation violating Mr. Jerry’s 4th Amendment Rights! He can bring charges against the two of you!” of penal code 45A Section 1B, Penal Code 791011. Officer Dunwoody looks stunned and his partner encourages urges him, once again that it’s time to move on. As tHhey walks away, Officer Dunwoody looksing at the young lady with a vengeance.
The young ladywoman helps Jerry up, . “Are you going to be all right? Do I need to call an ambulance?”
Jerry, with tears coming down out of his eyes, feeling ashamed and in disbelief to bethat he was treated the way he was, , responds, “Yes, I’m going to be ok. No, I don’t think I need an ambulance.” as hHe wipes his tears away., “It’s a good thing you’ are going togoing to law school.”
“I studied law back in college, but now I’m in ballet school. My partner and I saw those cops when they stopped you. She’s in photography school. See, there she is over there, in the car with a video camera.” Jerry is still trying to hold back the tears but chuckles overtake him. The woman’s partner waves and opens the car door.
Jerry lets out a big sigh of relief. “Lord, have mercy!”
Oh I lied, I studied law in college but I’m in ballet school now. My partner and I saw them when they stop you. She’s in Photography School. See, there she is over there in the car with the video camera. Jerry is still trying to hold back the tears chuckles. The young lady waves from the car and proceeds to get out. Jerry sighs, “Lord have mercy“ SheThe partner comes over to from the car and begins helping Jerry’s and the young lady pick up the items that were tossed from his bag. put his items back into his bag. The girlfriend responds, “We figured the idiots would no’t know any better. Do you want us to show this video to the policedistrict attorney?”
“No, No. , I will’ll be fine,” says Ms. JerryMs. Jerri. ”Well, I truly appreciate you both stepping in, but I will be fine.” He turns to the first young lady. “And don't you go around telling lies stories. I’m sureand know that's not how you were raised. You hear me?”
She chuckles and says, “Yes, sir.”
Jerry softly touches her in the face and she can sense he’s feeling hurt. Jerry respondssays, “Your mother mama taught you well.”
Her friend offers to help, . “Well, let us at least give you a ride home at least.” We are on our way to vacation in Europe.”
Jerry appears to by trying to get his thoughts together but the pain from the cop’s blows are still lingering. Thank you so much. I would really appreciate that.” He hugs the girls and then says, “Oh my Lord, I don’t even know your names!”
The first woman does the introductions. “I’m Lori Anne Jennings, and this is my partner, Samantha Morgan, but we call her Sammie.” Lori Anne and Sammie help Jerry into the car to take him home.
Jerry appears to still be trying to get his thoughts together and the pain from the
cops blows are still lingering “Thank you I would really appreciate that” He hugs them, “Oh my Lord I don’t know your names.” I am Lori Anne Jennings and this is my partner Samantha Morgan but we call her “Sammie”. They help him into the car and takes Jerry home. “Well, Yawl “I want y’all come by the my club and see me! when yawl return from Europe and we can have I’ll buy dinner!”.
“We’re on our way out of town. We’re going on a long over-due vacation to Europe!”
“Well, come in when y’all get back from your trip, then. Bring pictures to show me!”
They both smile,” Lori Anne, with tears in her eyes, responds replies, “OkayOk. We’ll do it!””
Jerry gives Sammie and Lori Anne directions to his home. He knows the situation confrontation with the police officers could have been a lotmuch worse if these angels where n’ot in the right place, at nd the right time. The rest of the short trip to They arrive at Jerry’s house is made in reflective silence.
The car arrives at Jerry’s house. The girls walk him to his and drop him off,door, and Lori Anne takes his keys to help open the door. As Jerry gives both women hugs, he says, “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope dinner is enough to repay your kindness. Now ladies, Okay yawl y’all just run along now. You have a flight to catch. ” as he escorts them to the car. “You all have a flight to catch. I will be just fine.” I’ll be fine, just fine.”
The girls return to their car and drive pull off and. Jerry lets out a huge sigh of relief. Tears are , tears still building in eyes at the thought of his encounter with the Red Dog Squad. He feels that he’s had enough tearing and pain for a life time.
as he begins the walk towards the house.
3:15am
Sunday
5/30/2010
As Jerry is doing some final tidying in his approaches househome, during which he’s having a conversation with God, . As he nears the kitchen, he then from his backyard he hears a gunshot ring out from behind his house. He turns on the back yard security light and immediately heads towards the backyardsteps out the back door., He then he sees a couple of young men men running out from the back yard. Jerry, still sore from his beating a short time ago, is nearly almost knocking knocked down. He tries to take note of the men.
Jerry down.
Jerry watches them run along the side of the house and turn up the street. Sstunned, he grabs his chest. “Oh, my Lord, who done got shot?” He runs ventures further into the backyard area and findslying dead is Marsha’s boyfriend, Jeremiah Collins, lying on the ground. His mother, Evangelist Hattie Mae Collins Collins, is in the backyard too, also and appears to be in shock. Jerry leans down to check on Jeremiah, . his He’sis wounded and bleeding real badly. Jerry removes his jacket and places it on over the wound, area trying attempting to slow down the bleeding.
Jerry calls out for help. He frantically calls out for help “Somebody call an ambulance, and hurry, call an ambulance.” Jerry tries to reassure Jeremiah, . “Hold on, Jeremiah, hold on, honey, the ambulance will be here shortly.”
Jeremiah tries to talk to Jerry. “tTell,… tell…, Marsha-” Jeremiah’s his eyes close.
Jerry’s frantically trying to keep Jeremiah from closing his eyesalert. He says, “Jeremiah, just hold on, hold on, baby.”
Jerry turns around and to see MsMs.. Collins is still standing there, motionless, with a blank look on her face., He says, “Hattie Mae, what done happen here? Lordy! We got to get this boy to the hospital! Hattie Mae! You just standing there, watching your boy die, child? Go, go and get some help!”“Hattie Mae you just
standing there watching your boy die, child go and get some help.”
Ms. Jerry turns back and tends to Jeremiah. Evg. Collins gets down on her knees next to Jerry. While Jerry’s tending to Jeremiah, Ms. Collins without him looking wipes clean the the gun that shot her son off and then goes to him and places the gun in his Jerry’s hand. “This is the gun that killed my child.” she puts it in hand.
Jerry responds, “Hattie Mae, you need to get it together, ! go Go and fetch some help!.”