I wake up startled. Leia poured an entire glass of ice-cold water all over my face. "What the heck!? Leia!" She stands over me, looking upset. "She called." "Leia, who called?" "Erika." I have a feeling of disgust, fear, and nervousness. "Why did she call? Did you pick up?" "Yeah. Yeah, I did. She wanted to know if you and I would be willing to go back to live with her and her new husband." I quickly get out of bed and storm to the phone and dial Erika's number. After a minute or two, the phone picks up. "Why did you call here?! I told you to never call here again!" I hear heavy breathing. "I… I miss you, Jason. I want you and your sister back here. He's been hurting me, and I… I… I need help." "Mom, what's going on? How has he been hurting you?" "After you left," I hear her sigh. "He's been hitting me and forcing me to do things that are against our religion. I… I can't bear it anymore. Can I come to your place? Please?" I sigh since I understand. "Yeah, you can come, Mom. I miss you, too. Meet me at 'The Exit Racks' at 5 tonight. I'll be there." "O-Okay. See you later, my boy." I hang up the phone, and I notice Leia behind me. "She's coming, isn't she?" "Yes, Mom is coming. Do you want to come with me when I go and meet her, or do you want to see if Veronica can hang out with you?" "I want to go see Vee." I nod my head. The last time I saw Erika was when Leia was 5 years old. I've been taking care of Leia all her life. Erika left us, but if she's in trouble… I need to help her. She is still our mom after all. I get Leia ready for school and drop her off. I head to work, but when I'm there, Ronnie is there too.