It was a hefty price to pay, it was.

He didn’t mean it, he didn’t mean any of it. He certainly didn’t mean to fuck up this bad.

Straight off the bus, finally getting out of jail despite getting out months early, Larry and Walt just beating on his ass for accidentally killing their brother in a drunk driving accident.

Russell knew he paid his dues, and by God did he pray till he couldn’t pray anymore… He prayed and he attended service at the chapel in prison, he prayed and prayed till he just… Didn’t believe anymore… Who can even blame him?

His father Mitchell always told him that God forgives, and words are a lot stronger than actions… If you mean the shit coming out your mouth. If you don’t mean it… And if it isn’t coming from your heart, you can go ahead and forget about forgiveness cause it ain’t coming for you.

His buddy Boyd who’s an officer, told him about a fellow cop who got shot twice with his own weapon… Little did anyone know, that was your doing… But, it doesn’t mean it was your fault. That bastard had it coming. No one knew who had shot the officer, so you were in the clear for now.

It was chilly out, the whistle of the wind making the air even more nippy. Russell was minding is business standing out by his old pick up truck, smoke from his cigarette surrounding him while he just stared off at the sky.

That was until he heard the click coming from a gun, pressed right against the side of his head.

Russell thought the worst. He was thinking it was Larry or Walt… But when your voice rang out, he was just slightly relieved… Still on edge though.

He quickly disposed of his cigarette, not making eye contact with you. He was calm… Very very calm.

“What is it you want..?” He asks quietly, that deep southern drawl. “I can help ya… Jus’ let me help ya…”