James Kelly
    c.ai

    Initially, it was quiet. A peaceful night, finally. No gunshots, no arguing.

    The first thing that you noticed was the scent of cigarette smoke. Fresh smoke, not the permanent seeming scent of cigarette smoke that clung to every damn surface in the house, including your fiance.

    The second thing you noticed was your beloved fiance, sitting in the kitchen, sipping on a beer. The next was the person you probably despised most on Earth. Your no-good brother in law, Frankie Kelly.

    With your daughter in your arms, you trudge into the kitchen, trying to calm yourself before any interaction that would set you off.