"Call Phonso. I want you to stay at Miss Gloria's. I don't want you here alone."

"But—"

"He'll know what to do, baby. Do what I say, okay?"

"Okay," she swallowed back her tears but more flooded from her eyes and trailed down her face.

As the police led him out the door, Vanessa wanted to scream. This could not be happening. Scotty called over his shoulder.

"I'll call you as soon as I can, Vanessa. I love you, babe!"

"Scotty …" She ...