A Volatile Home Life: Domestic Disputes and Drug Use

Josh returned to the house, prompting the mother to offer him a bus ticket out of town. The narrator's brother, Xavier, reacted with extreme anger. Upon investigating, the narrator found his mother with a profusely bleeding and injured face, attributing it to Josh. The mother explained she was trying to get him a bus ticket to make him leave, fearing he would keep returning for his biological children, Charlie and James.

The narrator's mother was severely beaten, with a 'frying pan' suspected as the weapon, though unconfirmed. During this incident, Josh again stole the mother's car. This was the second time he had stolen it; the first time he returned it. This second time, the car was later found broken down, suggesting Josh abandoned it and left on foot.

The narrator suspects Josh is involved in drug use, having seen white powder (possibly crack or cocaine) near their shed. Josh previously indicated he lived in a 'crap shack' with friends. He is also believed to take pills obtained 'off the street' and drinks alcohol, primarily beer. The fighting between Josh and the mother has been ongoing for at least two years, since they moved into their current house in West Columbia.