Janiya made another request, hoping her son would sever ties with Maggie.

A wave of annoyance washed over Sanford.

"Mom, go back and attend to my father. I need to be alone.”

Janiya looked at him and responded, "Sanford, there are millions of women out there, but you have just one mother. I've sacrificed a lot to raise you. I won't harm you. Listen to me and forget about her."

Sanford didn't respond and closed his eyes. A flicker of exhaustion crossed his gaze.