Chapter 1: Everybody Knows SomebodyPAGE 1Saturday evening in Atlanta had a way of making everybody feel like they had somewhere important to be.The streets were busy, restaurants were packed, and every other car seemed to be something expensive.Dave sat behind his desk at his second car dealership, looking through the glass windows at the showroom floor.He leaned back in his chair and smiled.Two dealerships.He still couldn't believe it sometimes.There was a time when Dave had to borrow money just to keep his first small lot running. Now, he had employees coming to him with problems he could solve with a phone call.He picked up his phone and checked the time.7:14 p.m.Damn.He had promised Terry he'd be home by seven.His phone immediately started ringing.He looked at the screen.Terry.Dave smiled.Here we go.He answered.What's up, beautiful?You know exactly what's up.Dave laughed.I know that voice.What voice?The Dave, you done messed up again voice.Terry paused.You said you'd be home at seven.I know.It's 7:14.I know.So where are you?Dave looked around his office.At the dealership.Terry sighed.Of course you are.Baby, I'm finishing up.You've been finishing up for two hours.That's because business doesn't stop.Neither does your mouth.Dave laughed.You love my mouth.I loved it more when it was telling me you were five minutes away.Dave grinned.Give me fifteen.You said that fifteen minutes ago.Okay. Ten.Dave.Five.She laughed despite herself.Just come home.I will.And don't forget we're going to Roman's restaurant tonight.Dave's smile disappeared for half a second.Roman's?Yes. Roman's.Why we gotta go there?Because I want to.Dave leaned back.Okay.Terry immediately noticed the change in his voice.What's wrong with Roman's restaurant?Nothing.Then why you sound like that?Like what?Like somebody just told you they were taking your favorite car.Dave laughed.I just don't feel like seeing Roman tonight.Why?Because that man talks too much.You're literally a comedian.I'm not a comedian.You act like one.That's different.How?Dave smiled.You married me. You should know.Terry laughed.I know enough.Dave looked at his watch.Let me get out of here.You better.I love you.I love you too.The call ended.Dave stood up, grabbed his keys and looked around his office one last time.Then he whispered to himself.Roman better not start nothing tonight.He had no idea Roman wasn't the person he needed to worry about.PAGE 2Roman was already inside his restaurant.And he was already getting on somebody's nerves.Why is table seven waiting?The waiter looked at him.They're waiting on their food.Roman stared at him.I know they're waiting on their food.The waiter blinked.Okay.Roman pointed toward the kitchen.So why are they waiting?Because the chef hasn't finished it.Roman looked toward the kitchen.Tell him to finish it.The waiter nodded.Yes, sir.Roman walked away.The waiter watched him leave.Then whispered,This man is crazy.Roman heard him.He turned around.What'd you say?Nothing, sir.That's what I thought.Roman smiled and continued walking.His restaurant was one of the most successful businesses he'd ever built.Five-star food.Five-star service.Five-star prices.And a five-star headache.Roman owned the place, but he didn't behave like a serious businessman for more than ten minutes at a time.He was also a comedian, which meant almost everything became a joke to him.He walked toward the bar and saw Natasha organizing receipts.Natasha.She didn't look up.What?You mad at me?No.You sure?Yes.Why you answering so fast?Because I'm busy.Roman leaned against the counter.Busy doing what?Working.That's crazy.What?Working at work.Natasha finally looked at him.Roman, please.He laughed.Okay, okay.She shook her head.You need something?Yeah.What?Where's Lesa?Natasha looked at him.You don't know where your girlfriend is?Roman checked his phone.She said she was coming.So?So I assumed she'd come.Natasha smiled.Women don't like being assumed.Roman frowned.What does that even mean?It means you better call her.Roman pulled out his phone.Before he could dial, the restaurant doors opened.Lesa walked in.Roman smiled.There she is.Lesa looked at him.Roman opened his arms.Come here.Lesa kept walking.Roman lowered his arms.Okay.Natasha tried not to laugh.Lesa reached them.Hey.Roman looked at her.Hey?Yes.That's all I get?What do you want?A hug.Lesa smiled.You'll survive.Roman looked at Natasha.See?Natasha laughed.I told you.Roman shook his head.Y'all are against me.PAGE 3To BE CONTINUED.....