Chapter 9

Ryan stood on the balcony of his room, lost in thought, with a cigarette between his fingers. He took occasional puffs, inhaling the smoke deep into his lungs.

"What does Anabelle have on dad?" he pondered aloud. His phone chimed from inside the room, capturing his attention. Ryan entered and grabbed his phone.

A message from a friend appeared on the screen: "Yo, where should we meet? I'm in your area. Should I come over?"

Replying swiftly, Ryan typed, "Yes, come over. Let's meet here."

Ryan swiftly changed into casual shorts and a t-shirt, knowing his friend would arrive soon. He descended the stairs to the lounge, where he intended to wait.

"Bro!" Andrew exclaimed upon entering Ryan's house.

"Dude!" Ryan greeted Andrew, walking towards him and shaking his hand.

"What's up? Where's my little man?" Andrew inquired, referring to Brian.

"Oh, he'll be staying with my mom for a while," Ryan explained as they settled into their seats.

"Really? What about school?" Andrew probed further.

"He