Don't go back

He stepped in front of his brother, shielding him from the piercing gaze of his wife.

"Kia, whatever you do, don't go back to prison. You might never get out this time." He whipped him.

"Are you two allies?" Ario's voice broke through as he went to comfort Rish.

"No, we are not," Hebrew answered firmly. "And what are you, Ario? The father of that unborn baby?"

Ario's heart pounded loudly, nervousness settling around him as he attempted to deflect. "What's that supposed to mean? Do you think you're the father?"

Their exchange was nonsensical, and Rish's mom interrupted, pleading for respect for her late husband.

The murmurs continued, adding to the tension in the air.