Epilog*

Liz looked at her phone and slowly got out of the car. She walked around the car and opened the door. She undid the carseat and a 4 year old little girl jumped out of the car and stood by Liz.

“Mommy. What are we doing here?” She asked taking Liz's head.

“Adrienne, I told you. We came here to see Aunty Shelby.”

“Is that where I got my middle name?” She asked as the two girls walked up a slight hill.

“Yes it is sweetie.” Liz replied as they stopped at Shelby's grave.

It happened 5 years ago. 5 years ago on this day. Shibb was taken away from them in a split second and there hasn't been a day that has gone by where Liz didn't think about her.

“Mommy, what happened to Aunty Shelby?” Adrienne asked as Liz looked down at the grave.

“She...she was needed in heaven. They needed another angel to watch over you, mommy, daddy, and Uncle Lulu.” Liz said, not sure how else to tell it.

“Who's Uncle Lulu again?” Adrienne asked taking Liz's hand again.

Ever since Shelby's death, their group kind of split apart. Everyone pretty much went their own ways. Things weren't the same between them. They tried to stay together, they really did. But each one of them held a different part of Shelby, and they all couldn't take it anymore.

“You haven't seen him since you were a baby. He doesn't come around anymore, he's busy with his own little family.” Liz said, with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

“Oh.” She replied sadly. Adrienne looked down the hill and a man was slowly approaching. “Daddy!” She yelled running to meet him half way.

He grabbed her and picked her up, smothering her with kisses. Liz half smiled and watched them walk back up to her. “How are my two favorite girls?” David asked giving Liz a kiss on the cheek.

“It's been 5 years.” Liz mumbled looking back to Shelby.

“I know Liz. I was there.”

“I feel like I lost them all that day.”

“You tried to keep them together. You tried to make sure they didn't drift apart. But you couldn't do it. It wasn't your fault Babe.” David said putting his arm around Liz and holding Adrienne in the other arm.

Liz looked to her right and 3 dark figures walking up the hill toward them. It was Daniel, Mike, and Lexi. Daniel looked at Liz, and then at Adrienne. “Is that your little girl?” He asked, appearing to actually care about Liz.

“Yeah. Adrienne Shelby Payne.” Liz said with a smile.

“She looks a lot like you.”

“Thanks Daniel.” It was the first time in almost 5 years that they had seen each other, and they were actually getting along. Things were crazy.

“Who's that?” Daniel asked looking behind Liz as 3 people walked up the hill.

“That's...” Liz stopped as they got closer.

“Hi guys.” Izzy said awkwardly. He looked at Sasha, hoping that she had something to say.

“Hey Boo.” Sasha said looking from Liz, to David, to Adrienne.

“Oh. This is Adrienne.”

“Hi.” Adrienne said with a big smile on her face.

“Hi sweetie. I'm Sasha. And this handsome little boy is Michael.” Sasha said crouching down to Adrienne's height. She looked at the little boy holding her hand and smiled.

“You and Mike had a baby?”

“Yup. He's 2.” Sasha said with a smile on her face.

“He looks just like you.” Daniel said looking at him.

“Thanks Daniel.” Sasha said looking over at Lexi and Mike. “Have you heard from Chanel?” Sasha asked turning her head toward Liz.

“I haven't heard from her in years.” Liz said sadly.

“Me either. Last time I heard she moved down to New Hampshire with Norland.”

“Yeah, I seen that on facebook.” Liz said.

“Are you bitches talking about me?!” Chanel yelled rushing up to them. She was acting as if nothing ever happened with them. As if everything was okay.

“Actually we were.” Sasha said giving her a hug. She turned to Liz and gave her a hug.

Chanel took a step back and looked at everyone, as Michael stepped behind Sasha. “That's not...You had a kid!” Nellz yelled with a smile on her face.

“Yeah, Michael Junior.”

“And is that?” Nellz asked looking at Adrienne.

“My baby girl. Adrienne Shelby Payne.” Liz replied with a smile.

“And wheres your baby?” Nellz asked as all eyes went on Daniel and Lexi.

Lexi lifted her sweater and revealed her baby bump. “16 weeks.” Lexi said looking at them.

“And look.” Daniel said holding up his hand and showing a wedding band.

“Married and a baby on the way? Daniel, Shelby would be proud.” Liz said, not sure if she should be happy for them, or sad that Shelby missed it. She missed out on a lot of things. On Liz having her first baby. Sasha and Michael finally getting the baby they've always wanted. Daniel and Lexi finally tying the knot, after all the years where people doubted Daniel.

It just wasn't fair.

Slowly 4 figures appeared next to Liz. She looked next to her and found Ace, Drew, Keith and Ruga standing there with smiles on their faces. “It's like a fucking reunion.” Ace said laughing.

“Yeah, we're just showing off our kids.” Lexi said laughing.

“It don't look like you got kids.” Ruga said with a confused look on his face.

“I'm expecting. 16 weeks.”

“Ohh, good looks.”

“We got a lil Bunk out here guys!” Keith said taking out his wallet.

“What? You finally got your boy?” Sasha asked picking up Michael.

“Yup, and he's way cuter than your boy.” Keith said laughing.

“Yeah, as if.” Sasha said as Michael put his head on her shoulder.

“That's your boy?” Ace asked looking at Michael.

“Yeah, Michael Junior.” Sasha said with confidence in her voice.

“You wanna see my boy, and girl?” He asked walking next to Sasha. He opened up to his pictures and showed her a few of a little boy, 2 and a girl, 8. “His names Alex.” Ace said with a smile on his face.

“He looks like such a Maldonado!” She said as Ace showed everyone else his son.

“Look.” Keith said showing Sasha his boy. “I call 'em Lil Bunk. But she named his Christopher.”

“They're so cute.”

“Who's she?” Drew asked looking at Adrienne.

“You're cousin. Adrienne Shelby Payne.”

“Damn Boo. She looks just fucking like you!” Drew said as David gave his a look. “Sorry.”

“Where's your kid? You're getting kind of old, don't you think you should have at least one by now.”

“Carmen's about to pop actually.” Drew replied fixing his hat.

“Really?” Liz asked. Drew wasn't much of the fatherly type.

“Yup. She's due next week. With twins.”

“What!?” Liz and Sasha asked, shocked.

“Yup. Two girls.”

“Damn.” Liz mumbled as Denny walked up to them.

“5 years. It took yall muthafuckers 5 years to come here?” He asked, showing no emotion on his face.

“I come here every year for her anniversary, birthday and on 4/20.” Liz said, baffled that Denny would even think that she would ignore this.

“I come every Friday night.” Daniel said looking at his watch.

“I make sure I come once a month.” Sasha replied looking at Denny as if he stole her cigarettes.

“I come whenever I can.” Chanel said, disappointed in herself.

“I was here just last week with my daughter.” Keith said putting his hands in his pockets.

“I think the real question is why don't we ever see you here?” Ace asked looking at Denny.

“Last thing I said to Shelby was 'Then I'll just leave.'. And she kicked me out. That's the last conversation we had. The last fucking things we said to each other. She died and I never got to tell her how much I loved her. How much she meant to me! It's not fair.” He paused and took a deep breath. “It wasn't fair. She didn't deserve to die. She was a good kid!” Denny yelled, tears streaming down his face.

“We all miss her Den.” Liz said trying to comfort him.

“But she wasn't mad at you. She was mad at me. All because of fucking Monica!” Denny yelled putting his head down.

“You didn't know this was going to happen. None of us did.” Sasha said moving Michael to her other hip.

“I should have been there. I should have done something.”

“There was nothing you could do. Lulu tried, but by the time we realized what was happening the house was beyond repair and we couldn't go in.” Keith said as everyone's mood changed.

They all started thinking about that day. About the day where one of their closest friends was taken away from them and killed. And for no real reason.

“Did they ever find who started that?” Ace asked looking around the circle.

“They tried. For a week or two. But the house was so fucked up they didn't really have a case. All they knew was that a beer bottle started it, and it was thrown through the window.” Daniel said cracking his knuckles.

It was a scary thought. Knowing that someone intentionally killed Shelby. That they intentionally threw a bottle into the window to start the fire. And they never caught the person who did it. They were all deep in thought when 4 people walked toward them. Drew turned around and seen Lulu, Bre, a little boy and a little girl walking up the hill.

“What are they doing together?” Izzy whispered to Sasha.

“I'd like to know the same thing baby bro.” Sasha replied eyeballing them.

“Hey guys.” Bre said sweetly.

“Damn.” Lexi said looking at Briana's stomach.

“I'm 8 months.” Bre said realizing what Lexi was talking about.

“Are you two...?” Denny asked looking from Bre to Lulu.

“Yup. And these are our two kids. Luis and Abigal.” Bre said with a smile.

“Wait...you two?” Sasha asked again, unable to take the news.

“Yes, us two.” Bre said again, looking at Lulu. “Why is that so shocking?”

“First you two go behind Shelby's back while she's alive and hook up, only to get pregnant with a baby. And now you guys are practically pissing on her fucking grave!” Liz said, unable to contain her anger.

“Shelby's dead. We had to move on and make the best out of the situation.” Bre replied tightening her grip on Lulu's hand.

“You're probably the one who fucking killed her! Just so you could get Lulu and have a happy little family!”

“I would never do that to Shelby!”

“You also said you would never sleep with Lulu. But you guys have 3 kids, I'm pretty sure you've slept with him.” Liz yelled as Adrienne took her hand.

“We're not going to stop living our lives because Shelby died. She was one of my best friends and I miss her everyday.”

“Yeah, I'm sure you do you pathetic whore. I'm sure you miss her every time you and Lulu fuck! I'm sure you miss her every time you look at Lulu.” Liz said, pausing for a second. “Just remember Briana. You'll never live up to Shelby. She'll always be a much better women than you. And you're just a replacement.” She took Adrienne, and turned to walk away. “He'll never love you like he loved Shelby. Never.”

“I love Briana.” Lulu said as Liz stopped dead in her tracks.

“Really Litho? You never loved her until after Shelby died. If Shelby was still here I would put money on the fact that you'd be with her. And those 3 kids you have, wouldn't be with Briana.” She looked at Lulu. “I understand that you have to move on. You can't stop your life because of what happened to Shibbz. But to move on to one of her best friends...that's low. Even for you. And for you to stand here in front of Shelby and claim your love for Briana is pure BULLSHIT!”

“You don't understand.” Lulu said looking at Liz.

“And I never will. I hope you have a good fucking life. And send me a post card from hell, cause that's sure as hell where you're going you dirty sonofabitch.” Without another word, Liz walked to the car with Adrienne.

“Sorry guys.” David said rushing to catch up with her.

“I think we should go.” Daniel said as he, Mike and Lexi walked down the hill to their car.

“Yeah, that's a good idea.” Sasha said as her, Michael and Izzy walked away.

“Bye boys.” Chanel said walking after Sasha.

“That's fucked up. Even for you.” Keith whispered to Lulu, as he, Ruga, Ace and Drew left.

“You don't deserve to be standing here.” Denny said kissing his hand. He then touched Shelby's head stone and walked away.

“Well that was interesting.” Bre said looking at Lulu. She could tell that he was upset, it's usually what happened when he went to Shelby's grave. “We'll leave you alone.” Bre said taking the kids and walking to the car.

Lulu bent down and sat in front of the head stone. He took a deep breath before he started talking. “It doesn't get any easier. I thought it would. I really thought that somehow living without you would get easier. But it doesn't. I think about you every day when I wake up. And every minute of the fucking day. I try and work things out with Briana, for the kids ya know? But it's not working. We fight all the time, and I know she wishes I was Dan. And I wish she was you. But no one can ever replace you in my heart Shelby. You have to know that. I could never love someone like I love you. It's impossible. You're legit the only woman I could ever love. I miss you Babe.” He dusted off his pants, and stood there crying in front of the grave of his one true love.

Chapter 25: Time To Say Goodbye*

“Briana!” Stacey yelled walking to the bottom of the steps.

“What?” Bre yelled back.

“Are you coming?”

“I don't want to go.”

“Shelby was like your only real friend, and you're not going to go to her wake?” Stacey asked, baffled by the news.

“I can't go. It's too much.” Bre said walking to the top of the steps.

“You have to go. You need closure. You need to say your final goodbyes.”

“I can't!” Briana yelled walking back into her room.

It was too much. She lost Shelby 4 days ago. She wasn't ready to say goodbye. She wasn't ready to make it official. After all the shit she did to Shelby, she didn't deserve closure.

“Elizabeth. It's almost 2.” Nana said walking into Liz's old bedroom.

“I know Nana.”

“Are you going to go?”

“I really don't want to. I don't want her to be gone.”

“None of us do. Send my regards.” Nana said quickly leaving the room.

Shelby was one of the closest people to her, how could Liz honestly said goodbye.?

Daniel stood in the bathroom mirror and straightened his tie. He put a little gel in his hair, to keep the little pieces out of his face, Shelby hated when they blocked his eyes. He brushed off his shoulders, and just stood there.

“Daniel!!!” Marcia yelled banging on the door.

“Hold the fuck on!” Daniel yelled back. Today was going to be stressful enough. He didn't need his mother to add on to it.

“If you don't get your ass out, you're gonna be fucking late!”

“Chill the fuck out! I know when the fuck it starts!” Daniel yelled opening the bathroom door. He stood face to face with his mother, and she could tell that he was in pain.

“You're going to be okay.” Marcia whispered.

“No I'm not going to be! I just fucking lost my best friend!” Daniel yelled grabbing his jacket. She watched as he stormed out of the house without another word.

Lulu sat there on his old bed, staring blankly at the t.v. His breathing was heavy. There was a knock on the door. “Go away!” Lulu yelled not moving his gaze from the t.v.

Kathy walked in and seen him sitting on the bed, all dressed and ready to go. “It's almost 2.” She said calmly, trying not to upset Lulu.

“I fucking know.” He said as the front door opened.

“That's probably the boys.” She said walking out of the room.

A minute later, Keith, Drew, Ace, and Ruga walked in and sat down around the room. “If you don't want to go, we won't go.” Drew said lighting a cigarette.

“We're going.” Keith said eye balling Drew.

“We shouldn't have to go if Litho doesn't want to go!”

“Litho needs to fucking go!” Keith said standing up.

“Bunk, you can't make him go.” Ace said looking at Keith.

“Fine. But I'm going. Shibbz meant a lot to all of us, and it's only right that we pay our respects. Litho, you think it's tough on you, just imagine how her moms and pops are doing.” Keith said walking out of the room, and down to the car.

“If you want me to go, I'll go.” Michael said, watching Sasha put on her boots.

“No. you stay here.” Sasha said as there was a knock on the door. “Will you get it?”

“Yeah.” Michael said walking to the door. He opened it and in walked Izzy, Nellz, and Bea.

“Hey Mike.” Nellz said as Izzy dapped him up.

Bea sat on the couch and waited for Sasha to come out of the bedroom. Sasha walked out, pulled down her top and stood in front of Bea.

“I can't believe she's gone.” Sasha mumbled staring down at Bea.

“None of us can.” Nellz said walking over to Sasha.

“Can we just get this over with?” Izzy asked fixing his tie.

“Yeah. The sooner the better.” Bea said standing up. She took Sasha's hand and they walked out of the house together.

The Funeral home was big, and there were rows of chairs. When you walked in there was a book to sign, where you left your name, address, and a little note. Next to the book were pins, and Memorial cards. The first ones there were Dee, Rodney, Grace and Andrew. Shelby's family. They sat in the front row, and Dee cried into Rodney's arms. The next to arrive were Denny, Big Denny, and Lucy. Followed by Bill and Charles. Next was Shelby's Nana, Mary, Ricky, Carolyn, and Nicole. Next was Lloyd, Nikki, and Nialya. All the family was there.

Stacey walked into the hall with Big Larry, Nana Joyce, and Stephanie. They walked straight to Dee and Stacey hugged her. “I can't imagine how you feel sweetie.”

Daniel walked in and he sat down in the back. He didn't want to be noticed. He just wanted to sit there, and be alone. He had to get used to that feeling.

Liz walked in, and decided it was best if she didn't go up to the casket. It was closed, and she just wasn't ready to say goodbye. She seen Daniel, and could tell that he didn't want company.

Sasha, Chanel, Bea, and Izzy were next to arrive and they rushed over to Liz, none of them said a word.

Lulu, Drew, Keith, Ruga, and Ace came in. Keith handed them all pins and they went to sit behind the girls and Izzy.

Heather, Nhung, Anna, and Ebony walked in and they seen Lulu. “He must be heart broken.” Anna mumbled as they walked to the other side of the room.

Within the next 20 minutes, the room filled. Even with 60 or so people, the room was still quiet. No one know what they could say. No one knew what they wanted to say.

At 2:30, Grace walked to the front of the room, and called for everyone's attention. “Hi everyone. If you don't know me, I'm Shelby's little sister Grace. And my family and I have decided that the people who would like to say something, they can have the opportunity to do so today. We wouldn't want everyone to wait until tomorrow. But, I'm going to start. Feel free to get refreshments in the other room, just please don't talk while I'm talking.” She paused and took a deep breath. “Shelby was the best friend that I never asked for. We went though a lot together, but when push came to shove, she was always there for me. She made me do things for her, just to prove that she had power over me. But I know that if I ever went to her with something and asked her to do it, she would.” Grace started to cry. “I know she's in a better place now. A place where she can be with her baby, with our nana and our papa. But I just wish they didn't take her away so early.” She couldn't keep talking. She ran from the room, wiping away the tears.

It was about a minute before someone walked to the front of the room. “Shelby was my best friend.” Daniel said pausing. “She was in my life for over 12 years, and I couldn't ask for anyone better to share the time with. She always told me what was on my mind, and she was real with me. I think that was her best characteristic. She didn't sugar coat shit, she told it like it was. I remember when we were young, I mean like real young. We'd be on the phone and my little sister would always come in my room and ask who I was talking to.” He laughed. “And I'd always tell her it was a leprechaun. Like on the Lucky Charms box. I used to always pick on my Buddii cause she was short, but she knew it was just out of fun. Her height made her who she is...was.” Daniel coughed and rubbed his eye. He had more to say, but he couldn't do it. He walked back to his chair.

Sasha was next to go up and talk. “Shibbz was my lil muchkin. She knew how to brighten my day with a simple sentence. When I was feeling low, and I needed someone to help me get back up, I know I could turn to Shibbz and she could fix me right up. Her smile legit brightened a room. Her laugh was unlike any other. I remember when me, her, Nellz, and Boo went to a carnival years ago. We went on this ride, and it was hella scary. But the whole time, Shibbz was laughing. She freaking though it was funny.” Sasha paused and wiped away a sliding tear. “I knew she was going to make it far in life. She had a personality that you couldn't help but fall in love with. She had dreams, ambitions. She would do anything she could to make a name for herself. She tried to make something of herself.” Sasha walked back to her seat and Bea took her hand.

“Shelby was a bright young girl.” Donna said walking up the isle. She was like a grandmother to Shelby. “I don't have much to say, because words can't describe how much Shelby meant to me. But I know that she's looking down on all of us, and by us crying, we're not doing what she wanted us to do. She wouldn't want us to sit here and cry that she's gone. She would want us to remember all the smiles that she put on our faces.”

“Shibbz was my best friend.” Liz said walking to the front of the room. “She was the funniest person I knew. She would say something and it would be completely serious. But then she'd look at me with a smile and we'd just laugh. Sure, we had our ups and downs, but I know that she loved me and I loved her more then ever. There is nothing I wouldn't do for her.” Liz's lip started to quiver and she took a deep breath. “Shelby was planing on getting married. She was going to get married to Lulu, my cousin. She was so excited. She couldn't wait to spend the rest of her life with him. What they shared was true love. No matter what life threw in their way, they made it out on top....Shelby is the reason I still believe in true love.” Liz blew a kiss up to the ceiling before she went back to her seat.

Keith walked to the front of the room and cleared his throat. “Shibbz. She was a good kid. She really was. She didn't get into drugs. She wasn't sleeping around. I'm surprised that she hung around us. She was so different. But then again, she kind of kept us together. She tried to fix all our problems, even when we knew they couldn't be fixed. She fucking held us together. I'm gonna miss her, and the little smile she always had when she looked at us boys. Words can't describe how much we cared about her.” Keith finished walking away.

Dee stood up and wiped her eyes. She was ready to speak. She was ready to talk about her baby. “Shelby was my baby. She was a good kid, she really was. Whenever I needed her I knew that she would be there for me. She was like her father in so many ways. In their attitude, personality and their looks. She would always have a sly comment to say about practically anything. And that’s when I would turn around and see her father in her.” She paused, and took a few deep breaths. “I remember when she was growing up. She used to try and get our family together as much as possible. She'd suggest that we play a game together. Say that we needed to spend more time together. I think subconsciously she knew that her days were numbered so she tried her best to make an impact on as many peoples lives as she could. And hearing the stories today, I think she did it. I think she made an impact on the world. She was my baby girl, and not a day will go by where I won't think about her. Where I won't hear her laugh and see her smile.” Dee couldn't keep talking. She sat down and took Rodney's hand.

Lulu took a deep breath and slowly walked up to the front of the room. “I loved Shelby. She was like my other half. She made me happier than words can describe. We had our ups and our downs. But I knew that one day, we'd have our happy family. I remember planing the wedding. She said she didn't want anything fancy. A little thing on the beach. She was willing to do anything for me, and I wish I could have saved her. I wish I could have done something. I wish...I wish...fuck! I just wish she could have lived her life first. It's not fair!” Lulu said walking out of the room.

The only thing left from the fire was a metal box left under Shelby and Lulu's bed. A box that held pictures and a letter.

The letter read; 

 

Dear Lulu,

I love you baby. More then words can describe. In less then 4 months, we'll have our baby here to make our lives complete. He's going to make all of this worth wild. I can't imagine not having you by my side. Our little man is going to have a family....

I'm sorry I waited so long to tell you baby. I just wasn't sure how you'd take the news. I wanted the moment to be perfect, because you don't deserve anything but perfect.

It's getting late, and my eyes are getting sleepy. Tomorrow we move into our new house and I can't wait! We finally get to be together, and everything will be perfect. Well goodnight baby. I love you :-*

Always&Forever

Shelby M. S.

Chapter 24: The Battle Ends*

“What's wrong?” Lulu asked Shelby, walking over to the couch.

“Nothing. I'm fine.”

“No you're not. I can see it in your eyes.”

“This party was supposed to be fun. I was supposed to show you off to my friends. I was supposed to dance the night away and forget all the drama. Just for one fucking night. But I can't even get that.” Shelby said looking up at Lulu, her eyes pleading to go to bed.

“I'm sorry babe. Is there anything I can do to fix it?”

“Fix what? It's only 11 o'clock, and the party's over. How fucking lame is that?”

“We can go and have a party upstairs.” Lulu said in his sexual voice.

“I love you.” Shelby said kissing him.

“Lets go upstairs.” Lulu said taking Shelby's hand. And walking to the steps.

“Lu! Can you come here for a sec? I need you!” David yelled from the kitchen.

“You go up stairs, get undressed, and I'll be there in 5.” Lulu said kissing her cheek and rushing over to David.

Shelby smiled and continued to walk up stairs.

Briana was sitting in her room, when she heard a loud crack. It was the sound of glass breaking. It was a few moments before she could smell it. It was the smell of a fire. Something was on fire.

She rushed out of bed and opened her door. She turned toward the end of the hallway and seen smoke seeping from under a door. “FIRE!” She yelled rushing down the steps. She looking in the living room and seen Daniel, Drew and Ace rushing from the basement out the front door. Sasha, Nellz, and Liz grabbed the liquor and rushed out the front door, where they met Norland, Michael, Mike, David, Lulu, Izzy and Ruga on the front lawn. Keith and Jill were the last to come out of the house.

“We have to remain calm. We have to chill out and not panic.” Sasha said looking around and taking a head count. “How many people lived here again?”

“18...wait, Lexi and Kassy left. 16. And then David joined, so 17.” Bre replied as the fire grew bigger.

Sasha counted again. And again she only counted 16. “I only see 16.”

“Did you count yourself?” Liz asked looking around.

“Duh!” Sasha said as everyone looked at each other, trying to figure out who was missing.

“Shel.” Daniel said quietly.

“Huh?” Mike asked looking at Daniel.

“Shelby. Where's Shelby?” Daniel asked, loudly.

“She was....She's in our room!” Lulu yelled looking at the house.

“That's at the end of the hallway, isn't it?” Bre asked as tears rolled down her cheeks.

“Yeah, the last room, right in the corner.” Lulu said looking at her.

“That's the room where I seen the smoke coming from.”

“Shelby!” Lulu yelled running toward the house. David and Keith quickly followed and stopped him at the door.

“It's too dangerous!” David said as the sound of firetrucks grew near.

“SHELBY!!!!” Lulu yelled trying to break away from Keith and David.

“You can't! It's too fucking dangerous!” Keith said looking at the black smoke that clouded around the house.

“SHELBY!!!!” Lulu yelled again, as Liz walked over to him, tears welling up in her eyes.

“She'll make it.” Liz mumbled, choking on her words.

“BUDDIIII!!!!!!! BUDDIIII!!!!!!” Daniel yelled walking around to the side of the house and looking up at the window from Shelby and Lulu's room. Black smoke poured out, as did the sound of a faint scream.

Shelby walked into the bathroom, and pulled on a pair of Lulu's basketball shorts. She pulled off her sweater, and only left on a tank top. She was satisfied. She turned on the hot water, and heard a loud breaking sound. She ignored it and took out her hair. She threw water in it, and messed it up to a perfect mess. She smiled at herself in the mirror, and walked toward the door.

Shelby stopped and smelled the air. Smoke. From what? She opened the door and seen the bedroom door engulfed in flames. The window was broken, and the fire was spreading toward her. She looked from her right, to her left. Trying to decide what she could do. How she could get out. The bathroom window was too small, and the fire was by the bedroom windows.

Her only means of an escape were unavailable. She shut the door, and backed into the bathroom. Shelby looked up at the shower head, and it didn't move. She couldn't even attempt to use it to stop the fire.

She backed into the tub, and rapped herself in her arms. She sat there and started singing. “I don't want another pretty face. I don't want just anyone to hold.” She paused, and started to cry.

The flames crept up to the door. They quickly engulfed the door, and moved toward Shelby.

“SHELBY!!!!” Lulu yelled. She could hear him. She could hear his cries. He was the last one she heard...

“You have to hurry! My fiance is in there!” Lulu yelled once the fire men got out of their trucks.

“Theres someone in there?” He asked putting on his mask.

“Yes! She's the only on in there.” Lulu said.

“She's five, two and a half. With redish brown hair. Green eyes.” Daniel said trying to keep his composure.

“You need to get her! You have to!” Lulu said as Liz cried into Sasha's arms.

3 men entered and 5 minutes later, they came out. They had long looks on their faces, and Keith could tell they didn't have good news. He took a deep breath and walked over to Lulu, ready for whatever the firefighters had to tell them.

“We found a body.” The one in front said.

“Was she alive?” Daniel asked.

“Was she okay?” Lulu asked, hoping for the best.

“She was....”

“At peace.” The short one in the back finished.

“You mean...she's...?” Nellz asked as Norland rapped his arms around her.

“I'm sorry.” They said in unison. The two big guys walked away and the short firefighter was there standing.

David walked over to him and pulled him aside. “Do you know what started the fire?”

“We don't know for sure, but it's most likely the beer bottle that was lite up and thrown threw the window.”

“So you mean, someone intentionally started this fire.”

“Most likely. How old was she?” He asked, trying not to over step his boundary.

“21.” David said looking back at Lulu. “She was planning a wedding. Poor kid didn't deserve the shit she had to go threw.” David said walking over to Lulu. He didn't say another word, he just rapped his arms about his best friend, as Mike consoled Daniel, and the girls cried together. Nothing would ever be the same.

Chapter 23: 'Friends'*

“The party's here!” Bea yelled as she and Mona walked into the house.

“AHHH!” Sasha yelled running to hug them.

“Congrats Shibbz.” Bea said hugging her.

“Thanks Bea!” Shelby said with a smile on her face.

“Shibbz and Lulu.” Mona said giving her a hug.

“Yup.” Shelby said showing off the ring.

“Here, Izzy. Take this shit and put it somewhere cold.” Bea said handing Izzy her bag of liquor.

“Yup.” Izzy said rolling his eyes as he walked away.

“Shellie!!!!” Heather yelled as Shelby walked over to her, Anna, Nhung, and Ebony.

“Hey guys. Glad you could make it.” Shelby said as Anna took her hand and looked at the ring.

“Where is he?” She asked looking at Shelby with a smile.

“Umm...Lulu!” Shelby said as he walked over to them. “This is him.” Shelby said looking at her friends. “Lu, this is Anna, Ebony, Nhung, and Heather.”

“Sup.” Lulu said as Shelby took his hand.

“Awww....ain't he..?” Ebony asked with a sly smile.

“Yup.” Shelby replied smiling.

“He's a cutie.” Anna said looking Lulu up and down.

“ Thanks.” Lulu said as Liz pulled him and Shelby away.

“Yes Liz?” Shelby asked as the music started to play.

“They're here.” She said as Shelby turned her attention toward the front door.

There stood Monica, Lola, and Tiffany.

“Are you serious!?” Shelby asked annoyed.

“I'll go kick them out. I swear I will! And I just might kick their asses too.” Liz suggested as Shelby took Lulu's hand and stomped over to the door.

“Can I help you?” Shelby asked rudely looking at Monica.

“Congrats Shibbz.” She replied trying to give Shelby a hug.

“What'd you bring?” Liz asked looking the 3 girls up and down.

“Shibb's favorite.” Monica replied giving Shelby the bag. She quickly looked in it and walked away. Liz gave them a stank look and followed Shelby into the kitchen.

“So what are we gonna do?” She asked as Shelby put the drinks in the freezer.

“I don't know yet.” Shelby asked not looking at Liz.

“Wow.” Liz said walking away.

Shelby rolled her eyes and looked up and seen Lola standing there. “Yes?”

“You and Lulu, huh?”

“Yes, me and Lulu.”

“Do you really think that's gonna work?” Lola asked grabbing a beer.

“Why do you care? I don't even like you.” Shelby replied.

“I don't care. I actually can't wait for him to leave you.”

“He's not going to leave me. Unlike all the guy's you've been with, Lulu loves me and he's not going anywhere anytime soon.”

“Oh really? Is that why he hooked up with Monica? Bet you didn't know that one.”

“Actually you dumb slore, I did know that. So many before you try and break me and Lulu apart you should see what I already know. It will save you a lot of breath, and save me from smelling it.” Shelby said with a smile before she walked away.

“Eww.” Tiffany said walking past Liz.

“What did you just say?” Liz asked, as Sasha, Mona, Nellz, and Bea turned their heads to see what was about to happen.

“I said 'Eww'. What are you gonna do about it?” Tiffany asked looking at Liz.

“Why don't you say that to me face!?” Liz yelled taking out her earrings, and handing them to Sasha. Then she took off the necklace that her nana gave her and stepped toward Tiffany.

“Lu.” Shelby said rushing toward Liz and Tiffany, Lulu following her.

Tiffany walked up to Liz, got in her face and said, “Ewww.”

Drew, Keith, Ace, Izzy and Ruga all walked over before Liz pushed Tiffany's head backwards. Tiffany bounced back, and sent her fist right toward Liz's head. Liz stumpled backwards and quickly threw 2 punches to both sides of Tiffany's head. She quickly recovered and pushed Liz back into Lola, sending them both to the ground. She then quickly jumped on top of Liz and started to scratch her face, while Lola threw a few shots.

“Oh hell no!” Shelby said quickly pushing Tiffany off of Liz, as Sasha pulled Lola away.

“You need your bitches to help you!” Lola yelled.

“Did you just call me a bitch? I stab bitches wimpier than you!” Sasha yelled punching Lola.

Shelby got on top of Tiffany and started to scratch her face, making her bleed. She smiled, got up and looked satisfied. “Bitch.” Shelby said spitting on her.

“Shibb.” Lulu said pulling her into a hug.

“I'm fine.” Shelby said looking around the room for Liz.

“That fucking bitch! How fucking cowardly can you fucking be!? She purposely pushed me into fucking Lola, just so they both could try and fucking attack like a pack of fucking dogs!” Liz yelled.

Shelby realized they had gone in the kitchen, and quickly pulled Lulu into that direction. “You okay?” She asked looking at her nails.

“I'm fine, just a busted lip.” Liz said licking to blood off her lip.

“I knew you would be.” Shelby replied washing her hands. She had to get the blood off.

“Those stupid dumb bitches.” Sasha said walking into the kitchen.

“LUISTOO!” Monica yelled stomping into the kitchen.

“What?” Shelby asked turning to look at her.

“Is your name Luisto? Just because you're sucking his dick doesn't mean you can answer for him.” Monica said.

“He's going to be my husband.”

“And? He's gonna leave you once he gets sick of the sex. Anyways, what the fuck just happened? Lola has a black eye, busted lip, and is bleeding. And Tiffany's face is all fucked up.”

“Maybe your bitches shouldn't have messed with us.” Liz said standing up.

“First off, yall have had beef for years? Now all of a sudden since you have your skank hoes behind you you want to start something? What kind of fucked up shit is that Liz? You can't kick Tiffany's ass on your own?” Monica asked walking over to Liz.

“Back the fuck off and get the fuck out. We never invited you here. Just because David's here doesn't mean you can be too.” Shelby said stepping in between Liz and Monica.

David walked in the kitchen and seen the girls at each others throat. “What's going on?”

“They fucked up my friends!” Monica wined.

“Get her and her skanks out!” Shelby yelled, her cheeks turning pink.

“Shibb, lets just go in the other room.” Lulu suggested.

“I'm not going anywhere until these bitches leave out house!” She replied staring at Monica.

“And what are you going to do when we don't leave?”

“I'll kick your ass just liked I kicked Tiffany's.” Shelby replied stepping closer to Monica.

“You could never kick my ass, even if you tried Shelby.”

“And why's that? You're not going to scare me away with your looks. Although that sure as hell are scary!” Shelby replied, getting about 2 inches from Monica.

“It has nothing to do with my looks, and everything to do with the simple fact that I could kick your ass.” Monica said as Lulu looked at David for help.

Shelby started to breath heavier, and her eyes started to sharper. Monica was getting under her skin, and it was obvious. Her cheek were pink. And her hands were in fists. She was starting to lose her cool, and it was happening fast.

“Oh, nothing left to say?” Monica asked. Before Monica could say anything thing else, Shelby quickly threw a punch at Monica and sent her back into David. Once she recovered she lunged at Shelby and threw her against the kitchen table. Shelby kicked Monica in the jaw and sent her to the ground, then jumped on top of her and started to scratch at her face.

“Go Shibb!” Liz yelled with a smile on her face.

“Liz! David! Grab Monica!” Lulu yelled trying to pull Shelby off of her. He was unsuccessful, until Denny stepped next to him and helped. They got Shelby up off of Monica and lifted her off the ground.

“Get the fuck out of my house you fucking bitch!” Shelby yelled kicking her feet.

“This isn't the last you'll see of me you fucking psycho bitch!” Monica yelled walking out of the kitchen, with her hand against her jaw.

“You're taking your anger out on Monica. You need to stop.” Denny said letting go of Shelby, and pushing her into a chair.

“I don't need to do anything. She tried to ruin my fucking party.”

“The world doesn't revolve around you Shelby. All she was fucking doing was trying to protect her friends. Same shit you did with Liz.”

“No! She was trying to cause problems like she usually does!” Shelby yelled, getting annoyed with Denny. She hated when he treated her like a child. Just because he was her older cousin, didn't mean he had the right to boss her around.

“I understand that she's slept with Lulu, but you can't take your anger out on him. You're angry with Briana, not Monica. Take your anger out on her, not Monica.”

“You're fucking pissing me off Dennis!” Shelby yelled, using his real name.

“Then I'll just leave!”

“Good! I never wanted you here anyways!” Shelby yelled crossing her arms. She didn't mean it, but she said it out of anger. Out of rage.

“I wish you were here.” Bre said on the phone.

“I wish I was there too.” Dan replied.

“I need you now more than ever.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, I lost Shelby. She's mad at me beyond belief and I don't think this can be fixed.”

“What happened?”

“I don't even know.” Briana lied.

“There has to be a reason why she's mad at you. I know she's a bitch, but I don't see her being mad at you without there being a reason.” Dan said as there was a knock on the door.

“I'll call you back.” Bre hung up the phone and Jill walked in.

“Your Twin just got into two fights, and you missed both of them.”

“What do you want? I know that you're the one who told Daniel about me and Lulu. You're the reason my life is over.”

“Dramatic much?” Jill said sitting at the edge of Briana's bed.

“Oh shut up!” Bre said looking at her phone.

“So that baby really is Lulu's?” Jill asked looking over at Bre.

“Not by choice.”

“Why'd you sleep with him?”

“Because I was drunk.”

“No you weren't. I was there that night and all you had was some water.”

“I was drinking shots. You probably weren't paying attention.”

“Listen kid, I seen you. I seen you at the bar flirting with Lulu. Passing him shots. Why Lulu? Why didn't you pick him?” Jill asked with a smile on her face.

“I didn't seduce Lulu if that's what you're trying to get at. I was drunk. He was drunk. That's the only way we would ever sleep together.”

“Keep living in denial Briana. I know what I saw.” Jill said standing up.

“You gonna go and tell Daniel that I purposely hooked up with Lulu? Gonna go and tell Shelby? Cause she won't believe you. I've never liked Lulu, or at least she never knew.” Bre said with a devilish smile on her face.

“So you admit that you purposely hooked up with Lulu?”

“Lets just say, he's better off without Shelby. He's better off with me.” Briana said as Jill left the room.

“She's going to regret what she did. That sonofabitch is going to regret that she ever put her hands on me!” Monica said as she paced in the drive way.

“What are you going to do Nikki?” Lola asked looking up at her.

“I'm going to make her pay. Make her wish she never got with Lulu in the first place.”

“Are you going to try and get with him?” Tiffany asked.

“Aha. As if. I'm going to do something better. Something more diabolical. Something that will make her regret it for the rest of her sorry pathetic life.” Monica said as a smile grew in the corner of her mouth.