Unanswered Prayers Summary

Gloria Mathews stands naked outside her bedroom door and yells at her fifteen-year-old son Tarik to turn down his stereo and call Philip a stylist at her hair salon, the Oasis, to let Philip know that Gloria is running late. Gloria swallows a blood pressure pill, dons a robe, and goes downstairs to make the call herself. Philip updates Gloria on the morning's appointments, and Gloria asks about Desiree, who is late once again. Gloria would like to fire Desiree for her sullen and nonchalant attitude but it is hard to find anyone in Phoenix, who can do weaves on black hair. Desiree is the best at this skill.

After Gloria ends her phone call, she talks to Tarik about his slipping grades and the need for him to begin to consider some career options. Tarik's long absent father, David, is...