L'amour Divine Magazine Volume 5

From Ink Masters

Season 2 Sebastian Murphy Detroit's finest tattoo Artist

LOVE conquers ALL KC

THEFEMCEE

rhyming & grinding with SNAPBACKS & RETROS

Trials and Tribulations in a relationship our generation faces today.

L’amour Divine Magazine Volume 5

Community 5 6 8 10

Pet Corner - Endangered Dolphins

Health - Eating Disorders D.U.I. - All in All I am just a Spurlock

History

14 22

Church & State - Is it Possible?

My Style My Life

24 26 35 38

42 44 45 42 48 42

COVER STORY: 52 Love Conquers ALL

Sports - Queen of Kingz of the Court

Legendary Voices - Black History Month

The Streets - Living in the Fast Life The Flip Side - Godess In Me The Outcome Behind the Walls - Lessons Learned

Music & Arts

Music - Sean Fair Music - KC TheFemCee Poetry - A Woman is Fed Up

58 59 61

Poetry - Protecting Two Hearts Body Art- Sebastian Murphy from Ink Masters Just Art- Britany Martin

31

02

Love & Sex

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Safe Sex - Condoms are Your Friends Cupid Gone Wrong Forward NOT Straight

The Flip Side - Man in the Mirror

MESSAGE FROM

THE owners EMAIL: lamourdivine@gmail.com

We would like to thank our readers and participants who have supported us in our journey. We have learned so much throughout our past volumes and will continue to grow on our road to success. We are far from professionals but instead are two individuals

website: www.lamourdivine.com

who have a dream and don’t mind teaching themselves.

With each volume we become more and more knowledgeable of what works and what doesn’t. We thank you for your patience, dedication and continued support!

Brianna Spurlock Owner

Basia Tomaszek Co-Owner

magazine contact OWNERS

SOCIAL MEDIA

Brianna Spurlock owner

www.facebook.com/lamourdivine

BASIA TOMASZEK CO-OWNER

twitter @lamourdivine

CONTACT

Website:

LamourDivine@gmail.com

www.lamourdivine.com

Instagram : lamourdivine

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 03

let your best friend

have a voice

Love is all THEY need.

Our fellow pets are not always treated the best, yet they’re found to be more loyal than humans. Some people do not understand that animals do not differ to far from us. The Pet Corner features different types of animals from their perspective!

We also share information against animal cruelty and animals that are close to extinction! We want to hear from you. Get featured in our next issue and let your pet have a voice.

04

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

ENDANGERED DOLPHINS Dolphins are highly intelligent, friendly and extremely playful mammals. There are approximately forty different dolphin species that are known and they can range from four to thirty feet in size. According to the Defender of Wildlife most dolphins life expectancy can vary over forty years but some species can live up to eighty years. Although researchers have been fascinated by these mammals for many centuries, it wasn’t until approximately the 1940’s that research in the field of marine mammals really began. Therefore conclusive information on the dolphin species are still in the infancy stages. It has been said that the dolphin’s ancestry goes back 50 million years ago.

Dolphins can go from twenty seconds but as long as thirty minute intervals before the need to

get air again. They usually entertain humans with their smile, playful attitude and their high leaps out of the water. Did you know that they can leap as high as thirty feet in the air? A Dolphin’s diet consists of a variety of prey including fish, squid and crustaceans. They often hunt together by surrounding a school of fish, trapping them and taking turns swimming through the middle to catch fish.

Dolphins are known for being sexual mammals and frequently have sex for reasons other than reproduction sometimes also engaging in homosexual behavior. Sex between two dolphins takes place belly to belly, in which is usually brief but occasionally repeated several times within a short time period. They usually become sexually active at a young age, even before reaching sexual maturity.

The gestation period var-

ies with species usually from nine months but can last as long as seventeen months. Normally dolphins give birth to a single calf, which is unlike most other mammals. They also deliver their unborn tail first in most cases.

To our dismay various species of dolphins are in danger of extinction due to habitat destruction, problems finding food, pollutants in the water, and even injuries or death due to getting tangled up in fishing nets or hitting boats in the water.

According to the Dolphin-

World Information Center

the Indus river dolphins and black or Chilean dolphin are in serious trouble with only approximately six hundred dolphins left.

Yet, there are other dolphin species which are becoming threatened too.

We need to be conscious of our actions and get involved in order to help save our sea friends!

Photography by Basia Tomaszek

Queen of kingz of the court

06

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Most people would agree that being involved in sports allows children to learn discipline and team work. While a lot of athletes also refer to sports as being their main stress reliever. Angel Bowers has been in love with basketball ever since she was able to pick one up. Throughout her life she has played several sports but basketball has captured her heart from day one! Basketball gives Angel the adrenaline rush and accomplishment of hard work, while the enjoyment of simply the game itself. Yet

she hasn’t stopped there because she is addicted to the speed of a motorcycle. She expresses, “Once you’re riding its like no one else is on the road causing you to feel free and invincible.” She is currently a part of the Queen of Kingz Biker club but previously was a part of her Fathers crew Slow Motion Riders. Angel is still playing ball and doesn’t plan on giving it up because basketball lives in her.

Written By: Brianna Spurlock

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 07

National Awareness Week

This year National Eating Disorder Awareness week is February 24th through March 2nd, 2013. Some people may be unaware of the extremity and increasing number in people who have psychological issues with food and weight gain. Eating disorders consist of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, or an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS). Unfortunately eating disorders have been affecting millions of women and men throughout the United States.

According to the National Eating Disorder Association individuals who suffer from anorexia, bulimia, bingeing, or EDNOS disorders obtain severe emotions, attitudes, behaviors and physical problems that can cause or increase the chances of life threatening consequences.

Anorexia nervosa eating disorder involves self-starvation resulting in excessive weight loss.

08

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

There are numerous warning signs but the most common one is the extreme fear of weight gain even though they’re underweight. For example, if you hear your friend or family member on a regular basis saying they’re overweight or counting calories, carbohydrates, fat grams and dieting when they’re already underweight. You may want to Tip! Tip! to see if you also start paying attention recognize them refusing to eat or denying they’re hungry. You must seek medical attention if so, because they face having a slow heart rate and low blood pressure. These will higher their chances for heart failure because of the heart rate and blood pressure levels sinking lower and lower. Anorexia will also increase the reduction of their bone density, which means dry and brittle bones. Then they will suffer from muscle loss and weakness, while fainting, fatigue and overall exhaustion.

- Aneroxia- Bulimia Can cause electrolyte imbalances that can lead to irregular heartbeats, heart failure and death.

Bulimia nervosa and binge eating fall within each other because when you’re Bulimic you binge eat then dispose of the food by self induce vomiting or the use of laxatives after eating. Most who suffer from binge eating are depressed or ashamed of eating so they hide and eat large amounts of food at once. They’ll even eat when they’re not hungry for comfort or sometimes just to eat. Binge eating can cause high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, gallbladder disease and musculoskeletal problems. Anorexia, bulimia, binge eating or EDNOS disorders carry the same main warning sign, which is the fear of weight gain. If you realize your friend or family member eating large amounts of food then going to the bathroom, you might want to start keeping a closer eye on them.

Eating disorders are very serious and should not be taken likely.

involves self-starvation resulting in excessive weight loss.

Using large amounts of laxatives will result in chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation. See these are serious consequences that can lead to death or life long complications. According to the National Eating Disorder Association, A person does not have to be diagnosed with anorexia, bulimia or bingeing to have an eating disorder. An eating disorder can include a combination of signs and symptoms but may not meet the full criteria; this is known as Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS).

Anorexia, Bulimia, Bingeing or EDNOS are dangerous disorders but with the proper treatment they can be treated efficiently. If you would like more information on eating disorders visit the National Eating Disorder Association website.

Bulimia can cause electrolyte imbalances that can lead to irregular heartbeats, heart failure and death. Due to self induced vomiting it can lead to inflammation and the possible rupture of the esophagus within the throat. Possible tooth decay and staining from the stomach acids released during vomiting.

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 09

“ O

ALL IN ALL I AM JUST A

n March 17th 2009 the most loving and funniest person was taken from this earth due to a drunk driver named Francis Dingle. Devon Spurlock was only nineteen years old, with a whole life ahead of him. Erica Haudek, Stephanie Currie, and Jordan Michalak were also in the car and killed instantly, while my cousin Devon Spurlock was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. They were all together in Devon’s car on Monday, March 16, 2009 waiting at a red light on Gratiot. Francis Dingle was three times over the legal drinking limit and hit them going over 80 mph. They were all innocent kids just on their way to pick up a Pizza.

W

hen I arrived to the hospital I was unaware of the severity of Devon’s accident. Once I entered his room I could tell from everyone’s face that it was not good. I then seen him laying on the hospital bed bloody and banged up pretty bad. I turned to my mother and asked her with tears falling from my eyes, “He’s going to be okay— Right?” My mother just shook her head no. My heart instantly dropped to my feet and I didn’t understand. My Aunt Laurie and my Mom tried explaining but I was in complete shock to comprehend anything they were telling me.

Sometimes I wish I wouldn’t have seen him in the hospital because I cannot forget seeing him evon died a little like that. It made me so angry for a long after 5am on time that I wanted March 17, 2009. an eye for an eye.

D

010 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

W

hen Devon had female problems he called me to straighten them out.

If I had any problems or issues with men Devon would be there in two point two seconds. That’s just how we were— family first no matter what. He would always tell me, “All in all I am just a Spurlock”. Devon was protective over everyone he loved and he was loyal. I felt completely helpless when he died because I didn’t know what to do because I could no longer protect him or vice versa.

F

or a long time I was consumed with hate for this woman who cut my cousins life short. It was so hard, tiring and stressful carrying that weight around. Four months after he passed I found out I was expecting.

“

Spurlock

Don’t

The day I had my son and looked him in the eyes, I was able to let a lot of things go. Becoming a mother made my life make sense. I now was responsible for another life and in order for me to do that, I had to let a lot of things go.

I talk to my cousin often and I will never forget him but I had to move on. This means accepting that he is in a better place and not coming back.

I also had to forgive Francis Dingle but I will never forget the scars she has placed upon all of our families. Honestly her own demons will get the best of her more than we ever will.

I created this section within L’amour Divine Online Magazine in memory of my cousin and his beloved girlfriend Erica and their two friends Stephanie and Jordan.

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 011

When I lost my cousin I realized a lot about the way I was living and the people I was involved with. I promised my cousin when I said goodbye to him at his funeral that I was going to start respecting myself. I was involved in a very unhealthy relationship that my cousin for sometime was trying to convince me to leave.

It’s sad to say that it took an event such as this for me to realize what I deserve and that tomorrow isn’t promised. I also told him I was going to make something of myself and make my life count for something.

I was never close with many of my family besides on a pass and go basis. I was an angry child and honestly I didn’t get along with too many people period. Of course that was not my families fault but my own. Still I was never alone because Devon loved me for me despite my flaws. It was like in some weird way we understood each other because we were similar in so many ways. One day we were sitting in his car talking about how we’ve grown and in ten years we’d be sitting around a table laughing like our parents with children of our own. Unfortunately he will never be able to have children of his own nor will we be sitting across that table laughing in ten years from now.

012 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

I could go on all day talking about how loving, caring and protective Devon was because it was just in his nature.

He was the type of person that would listen when you needed an ear and would be the first to offer a shoulder to cry on. Devon was selfless and would always be the guy to offer a helping hand without you even asking him. Before losing Devon I’ve never lost anyone I was close to and at first I didn’t know how to grieve. We were only a week apart but I’ve always looked up to him. He taught me how to ride a bike, roller blade, drive a car, helped me pass my road test and pick out my first car. Devon always learned everything first and then was the one to teach me.

I no longer had someone to run to when things got tough.

I no longer had the person who would calm me down and put me back in my right state of mind.

It was not easy accepting that the person I’ve grown up with my whole life was gone and never coming back. Devon may not physically be on this earth anymore but I carry him with me everywhere. I can and never will forget about him and I will keep his memory, story and many others stories alive that have faced the same tragedy.

I know many of you have heard this time and time again but please do not drink and drive. Time is the most valuable thing in this world because you cannot get it back. So think before you make a decision you cannot take back and it costs someone else’s life. Love those around you and cherish them because no one lives forever.

My heart aches every time I look at his picture and realize I will never see my red haired, freckle face cousin who would wear flip flops and shorts during any season. Deep down I know he is happy and with his mother, which makes it a lot easier to deal with. I use to hate my last name but not Devon he wore it proudly! My family may not be perfect but I am proud of where I come from and the person I’ve become. I am thankful for everyone in my family whether we speak or not because “All in All I am just a Spurlock”.

Written By: Brianna Spurlock

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 013

BLACK

A lot of people celebrate “Black History” month but are unaware of how it all begun. In 1915, Dr. Carter G. Woodson who is the son of former slaves and the second black person to receive a degree from Harvard University and Rev. Jesse E. Moorland who co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) with Woodson. African American history goes back to the colonial period when Africans were first brought here as slaves. During this time history books either misrepresented African Americans or provided no information at all on the African Americans struggles or icons.

Their objective behind creating the ASNLH was to do research and bring awareness of the African Americans achievements within our world’s history. In 1916 they published, “The Journal of Negro History”, which is now referred to “The Journal of African American History”.

014 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

In addition, Woodson organized in 1926 the first, “Negro History Week” during the second week of February to coincide with Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln birthdays who participated drastically in the freedom of slaves. If you are uninformed Frederick Douglas is one of the nation’s leading abolitionists and Abraham Lincoln issued and signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Around the 1970s the ASNLH changed their name to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History and changed “Negro History Week” to “Black History Week”. Dr. Carter G. Woodson died in 1950 and 26 years after his death in 1976, “Black History Week” was extended to “Black History Month” to carry on Dr. Carter G. Woodson legacy and many other African American Icons.

HISTORY

MONTH

“If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.”

--Carter G. Woodson

Rev. Jesse E. Moorland who co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH)

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 015

“No man can put a chain about the ankle of his fellow man without at last finding the other end fastened about his own neck.”

--Frederick Douglass

“Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.”

--Abraham Lincoln

016 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Legendary Icons: We Thank You…

Dr. Martin Lurther King Jr: (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968)

Martin Luther King Jr. will forever be remembered for being an American clergyman, activist, and leader in the African American Civil Rights Movement. He is also highly known for his role in the advancement of civil rights because of his usage of nonviolent civil disobedience. King received the Nobel Peace Prize, Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in his memory as a U.S. federal holiday in 1986.

Also within the U.S. hundreds of streets have been renamed in

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

--Martin Luther King, Jr.

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 017

Rosa Parks

(February 4, 1913 – October 24, 2005)

“I would like to be remembered as a person who wanted to be free... so other people would be also free.”

--Rosa Parks

On December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks refused to obey the bus drivers order to give up her seat in the colored section to a white passenger due the white section being filled. Rosa Parks act of refusal and the Montgomery Bus Boycott became significant symbols of the Civil Rights Movement. Parks received the NAACP’s 1979 Spingarn Medal, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Gold Medal, and a posthumous statue in the United States Capitol’s National Statuary Hall. Furthermore, upon her death in 2005, she was the first woman and second non-U.S. government official to lie in honor at the Capitol Rotunda.

018 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Malcolm X

(May 19, 1925 – February 21, 1965)

Malcolm X was an AfricanAmerican Muslim minister and human rights activist. In the eyes of his followers, he was a courageous advocate for the rights of blacks. Malcolm X is known as man who indicted white America in the harshest terms for its crimes against black Americans. Some accused him of preaching racism, black supremacy, and violence. Yet, he has been called one of the greatest and most influential African Americans in history.

“Nobody can give you freedom. Nobody can give you equality, justice or anything. If you’re a man, you take it.”

--Malcolm X

Booker T. Washington

(April 5, 1856 – November 14, 1915)

Booker T. Washington was an African-American educator, author, orator, and advisor to Republican presidents. He spoke on behalf of the large majority of blacks who lived in the South.

Researchers have stated that he went to any lengths such as cutting deals, making threats, pressured, punished enemies, and rewarded friends. Booker T. Washington will always be remembered as a dominant leader in the African-American community from 1890 to 1915.

“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.”

--Booker T. Washington

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 019

Harriet Tubman

(Born in 1820 – March 10, 1913)

Harriet Tubman escaped slavery but returned on numerous missions and rescued more than 70 slaves by using the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad.

She was an African-American abolitionist, humanitarian, and Union spy during the American Civil War. She was the first woman to lead an armed expedition in the war such as the Combahee River Raid, in which liberated more than 700 slaves in South Carolina.

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

--Harriet Tubman

All images for this section obtained from www.biography.com

020 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

F

Our family living section gives you the opportunity to understand and see how different types of families operate on a daily basis. A family does not always mean that you are blood related or man and woman. A family consist of two or more people who love one another and sometimes lives under the same dwelling.

Tell us how you live and share your story with us.

Family Living

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 021

IS IT POSSIB

Have you ever imagined what the world would be like without religion? Please do not misinterpret my question because I do have my own religious and spiritual beliefs.

I only ask this because within our society so many bad things happen in the name of specific religious beliefs. Would you agree-- that if religion never existed our people would live more freely? Possibly no longer holding so much judgment upon their patrons? Or do you think our world would be crueler and completely out of hand? I’ve always wondered this because in my opinion the Bible was created to keep us in line. Now, I believe in God and Jesus Christ but the Bible was written in a time so much different from now. When I read the Bible I have to take in the parts that fit for me and disregard the things that don’t. I believe in my heart of hearts that my God is an all loving, and forgiving God. I do not believe

022 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

he would promote or make exceptions on when you have the right to take or mistreat a human life. I am grateful to have the Bible and the knowledge it obtains of our heavenly Father but I also believe the knowledge it gives is highly misinterpreted. Now people do obscene acts towards people in the name of whom they worship and or believe in. This is not easy to say but people have turned religion into something that is feared. We live among those who claim to be holy but yet they judge everyone passing by. When in the Bible Luke 6:37 it states,

BLE?

didn’t have whom we worship or believe in because I love my God. I also believe this world would not be here if it wasn’t for him. I just wonder would people be more accepting of one another if we didn’t have religious books telling us otherwise. The Bible has so many good aspects but it also has scriptures that are contradicting to others, which allows people to twist and turn his word. Leaving us to live in a world where people judge, hate, and kill others because of what they believe in. I also wonder if we “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall didn’t have these religious books not be condemned: forgive, and ye that hold their word-- would people shall be forgiven”. The same people be able to misconstrue what he who claim they live by his word are really believed in? Yet, the Bible is hypocrites and use it as an excuse man written-- so is it possible that this has already been done? to judge others and or view how they should live.

So yes I wonder what if we didn’t have the Bible or any other religious books that states their

Written By: Brianna Spurlock word. I am not saying I wish we L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 023

Living in the

FAST LIFE REPORTER: Brianna Spurlock

Based on anonymous interviews I’ve grown up in a neighborhood that you would refer to as the “suburbs” but I must admit it was far from the suburbs you might be thinking of. Where I lived was no different than the hood because everywhere you looked there was men slangin’ and gambling on the block. We might not hear gun shots as frequently but they’ve happened several times within my neighborhood as well. Unfortunately I know what it is like to struggle and I do not by any shape or form judge anyone’s hustle. If you choose to get money by selling drugs and living the street life than that is your business!

024 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

What I want you to realize is the drug game and prison is corrupting all of our men. It is no longer just the individuals who are using that are addicted to crack but also the suppliers who are dealing it.

They are addicted to the fast money and the lifestyle it ensures. So I decided to ask three men who live the street life a few questions. I will not disclose any of their names due to them asking to remain anonymous. The first question I asked was, “Why do you continue to sell drugs after already serving time in prison for the same crime?”

www.justice.gov

Each and every one of them said because of money—and in so many words they’re simply just a product of their environment. One gentleman said, “When I looked out my window I didn’t see a garden and kids playing growing up. Instead I saw an alley with men fighting, slangin’ and gambling.

Most of us didn’t have a father figure and where raised by single mothers struggling.

So what’s left besides turning to the streets-- to get what we need, desire and or to help our families eat?”

Another gentleman stated, “How can you expect people who make thousands a day to work for the state and only make minimum wage? There is no way I could live off of a couple hundred dollars every two weeks. So yeah—I risk my freedom to live in what people call the land of the free.” After listening to these men describe why they have turned to the streets you can only understand why they don’t leave. Yet, all of them have admitted that they do not want their children to

follow in their footsteps. So I asked them, “Well if you do not want them to follow in your footsteps, why are you setting the examples that it is okay. You cannot tell your child to not smoke cigarettes as your sitting in their face smoking.” I did not receive a response from any of the interviewees— Furthermore, I wanted to see if they had any limits to whom they sell drugs to.

So I asked them, “Have you ever sold to a minor, someone who is pregnant, or to your mother?” Two out of the three said no to selling drugs to a minor and to someone who is pregnant. Surprisingly all of the interviewees said no to selling drugs to their mother. In addition, confirming that they would not sell to their mother but admitted to having no problem to selling to someone else’s mother. The interviewee’s finished by telling me in the street life, “It’s either Eat or be Eaten— While making our next move, our best move and a well calculated step!”

“When I looked out my window I didn’t see a garden and kids playing growing up. Instead I saw an alley with men fighting, slangin’ and gambling. ”

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 025

026 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Gabrielle Switchblade

is fierce and ready to take over the fashion world!

Over the past year he has expanded, “Shawn” into “Gabrielle Switchblade”.

During our interview I asked her “Why do you do drag?”

She proudly responded because “I am fierce as a guy and as a woman”. She entered the photo shoot strutting, prepared and ready to show both sides of her!

While during the interview she was upbeat, open minded, spontaneous and all around fabulous! You could tell throughout the interview and photo shoot that she was confident, comfortable, feisty and energetic as a man and woman. Ms. Switchblade is only 23 years old and is currently attending IDT for Fashion Design and Marketing.

Written By: Brianna Spurlock Photography by Basia Tomaszek

She has also had her own clothing line for the past four years called Uniquely Twisted Designs in which caters to both men and women. The outfits that she is displayed wearing are all of her own creations! Gabrielle Switchblade expresses, “I am fierce, loving and passionate about my family”.

She is what you would describe as a leader because she is here to make a statement!

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 027

“asI am fierce a guy and a woman “

028 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Mich ael Cole

030 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

“man in the mirror”

MICHAEL Cole L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 031

Michael Jackson started his career when he was just a child and due to all his hard work he will forever be known as the “King of Pop”.

To our dismay at the age of 50 his life was ended on June 25, 2009, because of a drug-induced cardiac arrest. Michael Cole is Michigan’s own Michael Jackson Impersonation Artist. Since the age of six dancing, singing and performing in the image of his idol, Michael Jackson has been a passion for him. Throughout his teen years Michael Cole was involved in performing arts such as stage theater, dance, show choir, photography, modeling, and makeup artistry. Now Michael Cole has dedicated his time, energy and finances into becoming a professional Michael Jackson Impersonator. In which has expanded his career allowing him to perform for many corporate events, birthday parties, city functions, festivals, charities, clubs, casinos and theaters throughout Michigan and Ohio.

During our interview Michael Cole displayed his personality as soft spoken; shy, but still very adventurous and outgoing. Yet was extremely concerned on the many things going wrong within our community and participates frequently in charity events.

You would imagine impersonating one of the best pop artists in history to be very stressful and hard.

032 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Not for Michael Cole he expressed, “It is not hard carrying on his legacy; I do this because I want to continue to spread the acceptance, love and peace.”

Michael Cole’s astonishing talent and ability to recreate Michael Jackson’s appearance, mannerisms and dance moves has allowed him to win many talent and illusion competitions . The first time I seen Michael Cole perform was at Stilettos Night Club and I was completely speechless! He gives you that glimpse of energy, freedom and enjoyment that Michael Jackson once gave his fans through his performances.

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 033

Tip!

Wake up with a smile!

1

The second you open your eyes and climb out of your bed it may be determining your day.

Make sure you wake up and try to smile.

Tip!

Today will be a good day!

2

Staying positive is the key to your day. Just simply look in the mirror and say three times “ Today will be a good day!”

Tip!

I am beautiful!

3

Do not be afraid of the reflection in the mirror. Nobody wakes up looking like a superstar.

Simply look at your self and say, “ I AM BEAUTIFUL”

Keys to a Good Day

Staying positive throughout the day is the most important factor. Do not allow one “not” so pleasant occurance determine your day. Focus on the small things in your surroundings. Just listen and ask yourself what do you hear? You will be surprised what you will discover if you pay attention. bird.

034 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Tip!

Stay positive!

4

No matter what happens if you stay positive nothing will affect you. Remember with each negative there are always three positives. FIND THEM if you need to.

THE

OUTCOME

The outcome features coming out stories for those who are Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual or Transgender. Due to the hate crimes and risks, you have the option to disclose yourself by name, picture or remain anonymous. We hope these stories will help those who have yet to come out and those who may need an understanding of the LGBT life style.

People think it is so easy liking the same sex and most are convinced that it is our choice.

Granted it was a lot easier for me then probably most guys.

For some odd reason females are more accepted in our society then men. My coming out story was not as complicated as most but it was still hard for me. In the beginning it started by just looking at women in a different way. Then I began to fantasize about women intimately and not men. Of course I had a boyfriend throughout my childhood because I didn’t want to become an outcast.

I battled with my feelings towards women since I was a little girl. I’ve always knew in my heart that I was different but it was not easy for me to accept. My family was not strict or religious, so I didn’t fear them. I feared myself because once I admitted it to myself it was no longer in my head but real.

It wasn’t until my first year of college that I finally accepted I was a lesbian. For me it was easi-

er than because I was completely in lust over a female in one of my classes. You could tell she liked women because she dressed a lot like a man but she was still very feminine. She gave me the courage to be me without evening being aware of it. Once the chance approached for us to talk in class I instantly asked her about hanging out or doing dinner. She accepted my invitation but once she found out I was a complete newbie she was surprised because I was so straight forward.

After we dated for some time I came out to my family and introduced them. They were completely cool and most of them already suspected it but were waiting for me to admit it. Now we’ve been together for ten years and happily married for four years.

We also have two small children who have completed our family. The one thing I want people to learn from my story is to love who you want and love hard because you don’t want to miss out on your fairytale ending!

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 035

Ovidelis remoditius

Photography by Basia Tomaszek L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 037

Lessons Learned BEHIND THE WALLS BASED ON A TRUE STORY

M

y name is Miranda Detiege. I am currently serving a sentence for 105 months at the Michigan Department of Corrections. Many people ask the same question, “What did you do?”

Well my answer can consist of so many of things but ultimately my choice to break the law was a divine intervention from a higher power.

I grew up in a city where most would consider it to be the “suburbs” but to me it was far from the typical suburban lifestyle. When I was just six months old I was given to my grandfather to raise because of my mother’s addiction to cocaine. Growing up without a mother due to her addiction affected me a lot growing up because I didn’t have that motherly guidance.

Most of my friends were affected by the same circumstances, so we were on our own raising and helping each other.

I would have never guessed that one of my best friends since childhood would later be my co-defendant on the case that landed me in prison.

Honestly this situation at hand was one of the most influential lessons in my life.

038 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

We both faced having a child in our teens with no real guidance. We were what you would refer to as just “winging” it. I had to provide for my child so of course I worked and eventually got a “boyfriend” and later moved in with him.

Like so many women you may know today, I did and made many bad choices when it came to my relationship. With the abuse and lies going on within my relationship, I decided to try and move on. One of my close friends was killed by her boyfriend and that became another push for me to move on. So I ended up running into a longtime friend that soon became my boyfriend.

The man I had chosen to become my new boyfriend was a drug dealer and the first in my life. The lifestyle was different, fast and exciting in a way, but I started to adopt some of the “drug dealing” lifestyle ways of living. The need and desire for fast money had control of me. I thought about it and ways to get it all time but I was not alone. My best friend was in need of money and a fast way to get it too.

At that time in my life I didn’t understand that I was being manipulated and used by the people around me. I didn’t understand what I was doing wasn’t good for a reason and that my children would later suffer because of it. I didn’t understand that my children just needed love because it was something I lacked growing up. So I was blinded and unable to see clearly at the time.

Of course, when you’re being used no one is going to tell you how stupid you look. Nor will they ask you why and what are you doing. No one asked and no one cared to intervene or help me. I felt like I was doing things for everyone else and trying to make everyone else happy. There is no excuse for my actions other than the truth that I was simply not in the right state of mind.

I was caught in a tornado and once I got to prison I was sad, nervous and confused. As the days and months passed, I started to free myself from all the self guilt for what I had caused upon

myself. I admitted my guilt when I first came to prison and I honestly understand what I did was wrong. I spent many of my nights trying to figure out ways to make up my wrongs to my children.

Many people make the same mistakes. I have chosen to move forward and to do my best by not allowing my past define who I am and who I will later become. I’ve asked for forgiveness from the people I believe I could have possibly affected or wronged. Now I just want to be the one to help those going down that same path of self destruction.

Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility Ypsilanti, MI

Furthermore, I am here to say that prison was an eye opener and indeed I hate being away from my children and family but I’m grateful for the time. While being incarcerated I’ve had the time to become a certified dental tech. and completed several college courses. Most importantly this experience has changed my outlook on life itself. So in the end I AM PROUD OF ME!!!

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 039

040 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 041

Sean Fair is a Pop/Soul artist from Detroit, MI and has been doing music professionally for sixteen years. He was raised in a single family household and throughout his life they moved a lot. Sean graduated from Berkley College of Music and Oakland Community College.

Sean Fair has been in the game along time and has been previously signed before. Now he is starting over and doing everything on his own. He hopes to one day be able to support himself off of his music and nothing else. He told us in our interview that, “You get what you put in”.

So he hopes this time around it

042 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

works because he is putting everything he has into his career as a musician. Sean currently released an EP called “The Consultation”, in which you can find at Noitrade.com/seanfair or on YouTube at “SeanFairTV”. If you enjoy relating to your music to the point it takes you back to that specific moment in time.

Then you will love Sean Fair because he’ll always leave you reminiscing.

Written By: Brianna Spurlock

Photography by Basia Tomaszek L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 043

Instagram & Twitter: KCtheFEMCEE Facebook: Kc TheFemCee Facebook Fan pages: Young Cake & KCtheFEMCEE Youtube: TwinStackzTV

044 L’amourby Divine Photography BasiaMagazine Tomaszekwww.lamourdivine.com

KC TheFemCee is a female Mc

from Detroit, MI. and is only 22 years old! She just currently dropped her mix tape called, “Snapbacks and Retros” and every number was a banger! She has been on her grind lately pushing her mix tape, doing events and Emceeing! She is out here to change the view on female rappers in the industry. She has been doing music for ten years but in the beginning she started writing poetry. KC expressed that, “Music has always been a part of my life. It allows me to express myself; everything I rap about is based off of how I am feeling.” She hasn’t stopped there because she also attends college for her Bachelors in Business Administration. She also hopes to one day have her own record label. KC TheFemCee has ambition, drive, dreams and the talent to go with it! You will definitely see more of KC TheFemCee because she, “Grinds in the winter and shines in the summer!”

Written By: Brianna Spurlock

Alone I sit in this room remembering what we had, some of the memories were good and some were bad.

What I wouldn’t do to change the hands of time, if I never met you my life would be just fine.

Only if I didn’t pick up that knife, I wouldn’t be here facing 20 to life.

But I had to show you that I’m not a game, now your six feet under what a damn shame.

I told you time and time again my emotions were not your toys, I am a grown ass woman and I don’t fuck with little boys.

You took my words as if they were a joke, now you see I was serious like some good weed smoke.

This is a lesson for all you little boys don’t fuck with a woman’s emotions Cause our emotions are not your toys.

By: Ms. Kenyetta Mckinnie

Photography by Basia Tomaszek

A Woman is Fed Up

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 045

Protecting Two Hearts

How did I become responsible for two hearts? And why is it when one is broken— I’m the one to blame? Yours or mine— That can’t be right. I bleed too, I make mistakes too, and I hurt, cry and need too— So why is it that I’m responsible for two hearts??

All because I’m the strongest?

I don’t wear mine on my sleeve because that’s not how I’m cut— That was the story years before my heart met yours.

Is that how I became responsible for two hearts???

In that case— there is something else you should know.

Your heart is nothing like any I’ve ever known.

Your heart was broken long before I’d ever taken control.

Your heart was never really ready to be touched again.

I’m not the one who broke your heart— my angel.

It’s so much you need to do before you give someone else your heart— Find your soul— Let your soul and heart meet— 046 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

By: Sekzi Red

Be

“Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.”

- Anne Frank

Happy L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 047

Most of you may recognize the phenomenal tattoo artist Sebastian Murphy from Detroit, Michigan on the television show Ink Masters.

Throughout his journey in the competition for 100,000 dollars and the title of Ink Masters, he produced amazing work under pressure an in limited time. Sebastian displayed talent, confidence,

diversity and creativity through his work, which lead him to the Top Three within the competition.

During our interview Sebastian’s demeanor was strong but courteous and respectful. He displayed intelligence and awareness to the several day to day challenges our children face in our society. He shared with us that he was raised by an

incredible single mother who he has always highly respected. He expressed, children today lack discipline and as a grown man he still fears his mother.

Sebastian commended his mother for keeping a firm hand with him because it made him to the man he is today. He also thanked his brother in law for stepping up and becoming the male role model he needed.

Sebastian has always had a passion for drawing and started receiving compensation for his work in the eighth grade. He explains, “I’ve never received any formal art training but have learned from 15 years of experience.” Since his appearance on Ink Masters Sebastian states, “Now everyone else knows how good I am.” I asked

him if he had the opportunity to do the show again would he? He answered, “No I wouldn’t because it’s too much drama with a competition and it is like being in high school all over again. The rewarding part was being able to show the world my talent and I made a lot of good friends during the show.”

Written By: Brianna Spurlock

You can find Sebastian at Independent Ink Tattoo Studio in Sterling Heights, Michigan or on Social Medias such as Facebook and Twitter at Sebastian Murphy. Currently he charges 150.00 dollars an hour and for portraits in black and white 300.00 dollars an hour. If you’re interested in having your portrait in color its 400.00 dollars an hour. The question is are you seeking quality work from an artist that will do exactly what you want? If so, Sebastian is your guy!

048 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Photography by Basia Tomaszek

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 049

Hello, my name is Britany Martin I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon but I am currently residing in Vancouver, Washington. I’ve been creating art of all kinds for as long as I can remember. At first it was drawing, water color painting, and jewelry making the typical arts and crafts for most children. While I loved reading and learning, creativity has always been a very big part of my childhood. I also spent a great deal of my time allowing my imagination to run. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school until I actually started to believe in my talent as an artist. I remember for my final project we had to complete a painting and the topic was of our choice. I decided to depict the love, support and encouragement I’ve always felt surrounded with as a child.

Once the project was complete a light bulb burst on inside of me!

I realized the messages and emotions I was able to convey through my art work. The feeling I received was empowering and it consumed me to continue with my passion for art. In addition to drawing and painting, over the years I have expanded my creativity and started exploring more into ceramics. With the help of my grandfather, I also realized my gift as a photographer. Now I have combined my several different passions of art into a small business called, Britany Martin Photography & Art. It is still very new and I have a lot of room to grow but it is something I hope to continue. I mostly create my own visions but I also do commission work.

I have had the opportunity to have my work featured in Portland’s Community College Art Beat and Photozine, Hip Chicks do wine in Newberg, Oregon for their art walk, a personal show in 2008 for Portland’s last Thursday. Recently I was involved in the Ripple Effect project in Oregon City, Oregon. I graduated from Portland Community College in June of 2012 and I am currently a junior at Washington State University in Vancouver, Washington completing my Bachelors Degree in Human Development. I plan on continuing my Masters in Art Therapy at Marylhurst University in Oregon. Furthermore, I hope you enjoyed my drawing just as much as I enjoyed drawing it!

050 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

ARTwork Drawn by Britany Martin

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 051

052 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

love conquers Asia Harris and Jarrett Cook have been dating for almost two years. They have faced many trials and tribulations throughout their relationship.

Asia was raised in a two family house hold until she was eleven, due to her parents getting divorced. She was very sheltered and didn’t start socializing or dating until she was 21.

Asia expressed, “My parents were strict and I used to be overweight, which caused me to be insecure. I was unhappy with the way I looked, one day I have seen a television show called, “I can make you thin”.

It basically gave you four steps on how to eat healthy again.

Instantly after just utilizing the four steps in six months I lost thirty pounds. Of course it took me that long because I had set backs, it was not easy changing my eating habits. Then I started going to the gym and lost twenty more pounds. By the time I was 21 I had reached 185 after weighing 250 pounds.”

Asia attends college and is currently obtaining her degree in General Studies. She is still unsure on exactly what she

all

wants to do as a permanent career. The gym is where Asia and Jarrett met, at the time she worked at the front desk and Jerrett used to work out there.

For a year they were just friends from the front desk. They would share deep conversation, Asia explained, “I was reluctant to take it outside of work, due to the stories he used to tell me”.

Jarrett Cook was raised by his mother majority of his life because his father was there one minute and gone the next.

He explained, “I would see him when he wanted me to do a job with him. After a while I started to resent him because he always would come and go.” Due to Jarrett’s father being in and out of his life he looked for a father figure everywhere else.

Unfortunately he never found it and in the end at 15 he started selling drugs and living the street life. He expressed, “I was consumed by the addiction of hustling and the thrill of it. Every day it was smoke that shit, drink that shit or call some females over. I was my own boss so I was able to chill and make money.”

L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 053

Despite Jarrett living in the streets he still attended high school and graduated. Jarrett tried college but did not go to class, so he decided to try Job Corp. in Indiana to obtain a trade in Glazing. Jarrett finished the program two days before his 21st birthday. After he took a break from school and fell back into the street life more. Once he turned 24 Jarrett was ready to change his life and create a new path of success. He started college at Oakland Community College for his Associates in Liberal Arts then switched to an Associate in Physical Therapy, in which he will graduate in the summer of 054 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

2013.

Jarrett hasn’t stopped there; he will be debuting in an upcoming TV series called, “A Fathers Pain”. Which is a heart wrenching drama about a Fathers constant struggles, while raising his two daughters after his wife committed suicide. The release date is still in the works but they start recording in February of 2013. Jarrett obtains street smarts; book smarts and is beyond talented in drawing and music.

These two together have symbolized real love. As you can see they have come from two totally different backgrounds.

They admitted both parties have had to change a lot of things throughout the course of their relationship in order for them to work. In the Beginning of their relationship Asia cheated on Jarrett due to her insecurities about trusting him. She explained, “The next day I felt horrible and I told him instantly. I think the reason why I really started to take him seriously and actually fall in love with him was because he did forgive me.”

Jarrett revealed, “Throughout his life he was unfaithful and understood that people make mistakes”. Jarrett made it clear that he is Asia’s first boyfriend, so he knew she was still finding herself and learning. Even though he forgave her it was not as easy as he thought because the need to show her how he felt allowed him to cheat as well.

After all the lies and deceit they were finally able to come together through the word of the lord and communication. Jarrett conveyed, “I learned patience; I used to want to have control all the time but once your with someone else you have to respect your mate and theie do’s and don’ts. I used to be selfish but now because Asia is more family orientated, I have learned the importance. She also is very dedicated and supports me in anything. Asia loves me when I’m down and up. Most pretty girls are stuck up and my surroundings weren’t always the best but she would still come and chill in the hood. I enjoyed the fact she did not judge anyone as if she was better.” Asia smiled and stated in response, “In a relationship you have to compromise even though you don’t want to, you have to.

It’s not just your opinion but both. I have learned to accept people for who they are and love them anyways and basically how to go about loving someone. Jarrett makes me feel loved, secure, comfortable, and like a queen.” Throughout their relationship they have showed no matter the trials and tribulations Love Conquers All! L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com 055

Ovidelis remoditius

Tip!

Tip!

056 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

CONDOMS ARE your Friends NOT your Enemy

Sex is an intimate connection that you share with your mate and or partner. Unfortunately this happens rarely because sex is exploited within the media and everywhere else you turn. Sex is no longer sacred or valued. Today, according to the American Sexual Health Association in the U.S. there are approximately 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted infections occurring every year. Almost half of those cases take place among Tip! of 15 through 24. Now the ages that’s something to think about the next time you have another fun filled night with no protection.

During the month of February we do not just celebrate National Condom Awareness Week on February 14 through February 21 but Valentine’s Day which includes a lot of love making. What a good month to celebrate the usage of condoms-Right? If I might add there are phenomenal creations, especially in to-

day’s society because at least two out of five people you know have contracted an STD at least once in their life.

In addition, condoms do not just prevent STDs but unwanted pregnancies. This goes to my men and women who do not want children wrap it up and you will have a better chance of not having them.

We all know that it feels good to not use them and in the heat of the moment—well you just do not Tip! Then a month or so later care. you’re in the clinic being told you’re pregnant or contracted herpes, HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea or one of the several other sexual transmitted diseases. Doesn’t sound too tempting now—does it? Furthermore, wrap it up because no one will care for your life better than yourself. So be smart and think before you make a careless mistake for one night of pleasure that may not be changeable.

Cupid Gone

WRONG Anonymous: I don’t even know where to start because there are several situations where we went wrong.

Yes I could continue on blaming my spouse and just sticking to it’s all her fault but in the end what does that solve? When my ex and I started dating, I was just a little boy and not ready for the type of commitments my mouth was making. I was unfaithful numerous times as most people are in the world. I was just unaware of how painful it was to know the person you loved slept with someone else. Until she slept with my brother and for once I felt her pain. For a long time I justified my mistakes with at least I

didn’t sleep with any of your family members. When in all actuality she gave me a taste of my own medicine. I guess, I just wanted her to be in the wrong and to beg for my forgiveness. When in the end I didn’t deserve it because I’ve been cheating for years. Yet, I still tried to justify my actions to try and make her actions worse than mine. Therefore, I messed up and turned a good girl into something she wasn’t. I failed to keep my promises and in conclusion I’ve learned Karma is a B****!

Written By: LonelyGuy59

Cupid Gone Wrong was created to help those who have or are dealing with a hurtful break up. We would like to hear your story.

Share it with us and help others.

058 L’amour Divine Magazine www.lamourdivine.com

Part IV CHAPTER TWO REGRETS..continued

“Oh yes it’s gettin’ hot in here Semaj— and these two bitches have some explaining to do,” yelled Layla!

The hospital lobby was completely silent for what seemed like a lifetime. Destiny, Shawn, Semaj and Keylah looked at one another in complete shock, because they all have known each other since childhood. Therefore, having the image of Carmela and Bailey doing anything sexual was not a wanted, nor pretty image amongst their friends.

Bailey felt the weight of their imaginations immediately jumping to conclusions within their heads. Once she looked at Cee and seen that she was giving her the “say something” look. She cleared her throat and kindly interrupted the silence. “Layla baby, can we please talk outside?”

“No I want an explanation now,” commanded Layla, while staring at Bailey furiously! Her heart was pumping because inside she really feared Baileys answer. She had been driving around all night looking for her, which only allowed her mind to race to so many horrible conclusions.

Bailey grabbed her hand softly, “Layla, this is not the time or place. Sylv was in a horrible accident and right now we need to focus on that. Now I love you and I promise you it is not what you think. So if you want your explanation, please come outside so we can talk in private.”

Layla thought to herself, I am not in the mood for compro-

mising, but due to the current situation I really don’t have any other choice. You would have to be one cold hearted person to be all about yourself, when someone else is fighting for their life. Layla snapped back to reality and responded calmly, “Okay

Bailey let’s go outside.” Layla was so frustrated with the situation she couldn’t even show any other type of compassion for Slyv at the moment. All she wanted was her answers and then she was leaving either single or engaged. The rest she planned on dealing with once she was able to get back in her right state of mind, because indeed she had grown to love Slyv as a friend.

22

Bailey turned around first and started heading towards the emergency exits doors. Layla, took one more snare at Carmela before walking out to let her know this was not over. It didn’t take Layla more than two seconds from exiting the hospital doors before hitting Bailey upside the head!

“Ouch! Layla are you serious! Don’t put your damn hands on me! If you want to talk we can do that— but if you think you’re going to keep putting your hands on me, you’re up for a rude awakening,” screamed Bailey! As she thought to herself, Great now everyone outside is looking at us like were crazy.

“You’re lucky that’s all you got! Now— why were you and Carmela seen at Entourage kissing last night?”

“It wasn’t even like that, we were just drunk fooling around— that’s all and that’s it. Come on, you know me and Cee go back since grade school bae!”

“Really—that’s the excuse you’re going to give me? You know what, don’t even answer that because if you think for one second, that I am going to believe the friend line. You are stupider than I thought! So I can’t wait to hear your explanation to where you were last night,” laughed Layla.

“Whatever— believe what you want to believe, but FYI Cee and I stayed the night over my home girl Mia’s house because she got into it with Slyv then you was tripping. So yeah we chilled, drank and passed out over there. Then once we woke up, we found out about Slyv getting into an accident on her motorcycle and being in critical condition. So yeah— we just rushed here, our minds were so scattered on if she was going to be okay.

Then Cee was freaking out, so I was trying to keep her calm.

In the mist of everything I completely forgot to touch basis with you— I definitely didn’t want you to come up here like this.

Especially under the impression I am creeping with my best friend. I understand why you did though, because I didn’t call you or come home. So it looks pretty bad on my part and I am sorry for that.”

23

“Bailey—I don’t know, things just have not been good between me and you lately. It seems as if you’re losing interest in me and our relationship. Lately I’ve been feeling so isolated because you’ve been intentionally pushing me away and keeping me to a distance. The question is, are you truly in love with me? Are you happy with the home and life we have built together? These are questions I should never have to wonder about with someone I am engaged to Bailey.”

Layla could only shake her head at Bailey in disbelief, while turning around and walking away towards her car. She didn’t give Bailey a chance to respond, because in her heart she just answered her own question. Layla got into her 2012 pearl white Chevrolet Denali truck and drove off. Bailey just stood there for a second in a complete daze, because Layla was right and to her surprise she knew her better than she had thought.

After a moment of contemplating, she walked back into the hospital to greet her friends in the hopes of stopping the rumors before they got anymore out of hand. When in all actuality, they weren’t rumors at all but she was determined to convince everyone else otherwise. When she arrived back into the hospital lobby, everyone was sitting down talking but stopped as soon as they seen Bailey.

“Please don’t stop on account of me,” joked Bailey.

“Girl be quiet— trust aint nobody worried about you,” responded Justice; because of course she always had to add her two sense. Justice is the new comer of the group, a new found friend of Destiny’s. Although she has been sneaking around with Shawn, Justice is unaware of what she is up against.

Friends sometimes do not always know everything about one another. Furthermore, Justice is what her friends would refer to as the extra spice of the group because her attitude is straight fierce. While she stands 5’8 and thick in all the right places. Let’s not forget she is also a dark skinned beauty and trust she knows it!

24

“Shut up— Justice you always talking junk! Naw— but seriously man, Layla is tripping and from the looks of it, I am going to be on the couch for at least the next three months,” stated Bailey while sitting down in the seat next to Carmela.

“Oh— I am also sorry about Layla tripping out and I know right now you’re going through a lot. I just want you to know— I am so sorry. I straightened it out though and too all of my lovely friends, we aren’t smashing each other. I already know y’all were in here probably gossiping. Yes we kissed but how many times have we got wasted and kissed one another? Right— that’s just some hatin ass female for you with no day job,” explained Bailey.

“Baby you don’t have to explain to us—we all know what it is. Don’t get me wrong when she came in here tripping, I was thinking in my head— really? Sure as shit, my ass didn’t expect it,” added Shawn.

“That’s because it’s not true,” snapped Bailey!

“I am not saying that— I meant if it was I wouldn’t have suspected it. Calm down lil mama, you know daddy loves you,” laughed Shawn.

“Girl you kill me with this daddy crap! You have a vagina just like me,” shouted Bailey.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about because my chick will tell you— I am standing nine inches tall.”

“Yeah okay Shawn, you are standing with nine inches of rubber! Also what chick because last time I checked, your chicks don’t last more than one night. What do you do again—oh yeah screw them and send them on their way. So I guess you are a man mentally after all because you act just like a little puppy.”

“Low blow Bailey—ouch I think that hurt my feelings a little bit,” whined Shawn.

“Oh my god y’all need to stop it,” stated Keylah.

“Yes please,” interjected Destiny! “Anyways back to the topic at hand, Cee what’s going on with Slyv’s mom? Does she know what’s going on and is she coming to the states?”

25

“Yes she knows about what’s going on, the nurse actually called her mom for me. So she’s supposed to be here within the next 72 hours because she is the only one who can make decisions on Slyvs behalf. You know I don’t speak their language—shit I can barely speak English. So I am just going off of what the nurse told me. So until then it’s the waiting game, while praying that nothing happens to her. I also called my mom and she’s going to keep the baby for me until everything is situated with Slyv.”

“Aww.. Babe – well we are here for you always and forever,” replied everyone simultaneously.”

“And that’s why I love you all so much! Seriously thank you for being here for me. But enough of the small talk, I have to go to the ladies room. My bladder is literally about to explode!”

“Me too, come on I’ll go with you,” insisted Bailey.

“Okay— Hurry up because I have to go.” They both got up from their chairs and headed to the ladies room.

“So—while they are gone, do you think they’re fucking,” asked Semaj.

“Why are you so damn nosey,” yelled Shawn!

“First of all, it is my damn job to be nosey, especially when I’ll be leaving for the military in two weeks! So I need to absorb all the drama I can before I do! Starting by sneaking in the bathroom to see what they are talking about. Holla tricks!”

“That boy is something else—I swear he’ll never change. I would pay a million dollars to see how he is going to be in the military,” giggled Justice.

Semaj decided to leave the girls to go on a mission of his own.

He believed scratch a lie find a cheater. Yeah right now is prob-

ably not the best time to interfere in my friend’s personal life, thought Semaj. Unfortunately, he could not hold back the

temptation to spy on his best friends. It didn’t take him long to reach the ladies room down the hall. Before he even reached the door he could hear Bailey and Carmela arguing. He immediately rushed to the door to be nosey— 26

“We can’t continue to do this, look at how everything is falling apart for us! Layla is mad at you and Slyv is in the hospital because of me! Only if I had gone after her, she wouldn’t have been on her bike. Instead we would be lying in our bed watching TV and drinking wine or something,” pleaded Carmela.

“It is not your fault Cee, look I love you and the last thing I want is for you to blame yourself for something you had no control over.”

“What are we going to do? Slyv already thinks I am cheating, and then Layla is not going to let us kissing go. So once she slips and says something in front of Sylv it’s a wrap. Let’s not forget, now all of our friends are suspicious because of your little blabber mouth.”

“I know, let’s just focus on fixing our relationships because I do love Layla and she is still my fiancée. Things haven’t been good between us but—this shit with Slyv has made me realize life is too short and I don’t want to lose her,” cried Bailey.

“OOhhhhhh—I knew it,” whispered Semaj. He quickly rushed back to the lobby because the last thing he needed was to get caught ease dropping. Once he returned of course he carried the look of, “I know something you don’t know”.

To be continued.........