Scene 35
"Stay away from me."
"Is that how you treat your favorite uncle? Why don't you give loving family a hug? See? I even brought flowers."
Dayzee jumped up and moved toward the nightstand.
"Come any closer and I swear…"
"Stop, Buddha. No need to make a scene, now. Besides, Anise and I have been making amends for some time."
"Of course, you made amends. How can you not when the other participant is incapacitated? From what I hear, that how you always like it."
Where the hell was the call button? She checked the bed with a frantic pace. Wires created endless chains of confusing labyrinths.
"Oh, Buddha-"
"Dayzee."
He dismissed her comment. "It hurts you made assumptions without all the facts. What Anise and I had…"
"Rewriting history?"
Preston's laugh lines on his right cheek twitched.
"You can't change facts, Dayzee."
She circled the bed. The doting uncle routine soured her stomach.
"Now that's the most truthful thing you said. You think you friend appreciates what you're going to do?"
His mouth thinned with displeasure.
"I've made my peace. My conscience is clear."
"Well, that's good to know."
He eased forward. There was no disguising the menace in his voice.
"That was always your problem, little girl, always playing in grown folks business-"
"Her name is Dayzee," Thomas declared, shutting the door. "And I suggest you watch your tone."
"Well, well." Preston sneered. "Aint this cute. So you're the big shot that won my niece's heart."
He offered his hand. "Preston Gaines."
Thomas ignored him and marched to Dayzee.
"Lady Day, you alright?"
Preston's impassioned voice rose, causing both to stare.
"Alright? Of course, why wouldn't she be? She's with family, ain't she? You really think I would let any harm come to Buddha?"
"You have no right to call me that." Dayzee cried out.
"I see living in the California sun has changed you somewhat."
He pointed his finger at Thomas. "And you. What are your intentions toward my flesh and blood?"
Thomas pulled Dayzee closer.
"I believe that's none of your business." he added.
"That is where we disagree. Anything involving my niece will always be my business."
"How chivalrous of you. I'm sure her mother would appreciate your attention to detail."
Thomas flexed an eyebrow to drive home his disgust.
"Dayzee, you better reign in your friend here. I might forget we are in a hospital. A Christian one as well."
"Then you should remember your manners." a voice piped up.
Kenya stood in the doorway.
"Oh good. The gang's all here. So glad I didn't miss the reunion."