BY THE BLOOD: NEW AGE (URBAN)

Stay Schemin'. | Revelations.

This chapter's a lil spicy. Y'all know how I do ;) Read at your OWN discretion!

K A R E E M
ATHENS, GA
SATURDAY
SIX am

"Ah, yes!! Mmmm— Baby!!!" I lifted the bottom of my hoodie and drilled her even harder— her large, round ass clapping against my abdomen. She reached around to push me away, but I had one of my hands planted on the small of her back and the other under her stomach, making her attempts at slowing me down pointless. I was pulling her on my dick as she stood bent over and holding on tightly to the metal bleacher. Her breathing hitched once I'd smacked her ass and began slow grinding her. She arched her back and I could feel her legs shaking. "O..Oh, más duro papi más duro— shit, SHIT!! Yesss!!!!"

"What's my name?" I slapped her ass again, stroking her pussy hole nice and deep— winding my hips up into her. She only stuttered and moaned and screamed. I rammed her deep, slapping her ass once more when I didn't get an answer. "What's my fuckin' name??"

"Kareeeem!"

"Uh uh, I can't hear you." I quickened my thrusts and she gripped the bleacher so hard, I thought she would rip it from the hinges. "What's my name?"

"KAREEEEMM!! OH, FUCK!" She hollered and I felt her body jerk. Her walls tightened around me and soon my dick was dripping wet with her juices.

"Ughh, shit!!" I pulled out just as she was cumming on my dick, I ripped the condom off and jerked my shit rapidly, shooting my nut all over her voluptuous ass. She and I were both panting like we'd just run a marathon as we came down from cloud nine. I looked around the empty football field, which was practically deserted due to the freezing Georgia cold.

"Damn. I want some more of that, papí." Yesenia cooed as I stuffed my dick back into my pants. While she pulled her tight fitting sweatpants up, I couldn't help the feeling of guilt that overtook me immediately. I knew I was a dog ass nigga and nothing could be said to change that fact. I promised Vida that I wouldn't fuck around on her anymore, yet in a moment of desperation, I'd given in and fell weak against temptation.

To make matters worse, I'd fucked my teammate Yasin's younger sister. I knew if he ever found out I'd be done for. Of course it wasn't my intent. Shit, I looked at Yesenia as a little sister as well, but she'd come onto the field after she spotted me working out and her intentions were anything but pure. I didn't know how the hell she knew I'd be at the stadium so early, but she looked so good that I didn't even give it much thought. Up until that moment I'd had no real interest in her, despite her being a sexy ass Cuban broad with dark brown eyes, bone straight hair that reached her back and an ass you could sit a cup on. She was undoubtedly the finest freshman on the campus, but I never gave her the time of day, being that she was my homeboy's sister.

She should've been off limits. I knew that— but with V still holding out on me and my desire for sex growing with each passing day, it was hard to turn her down. She and I were just talking at first, then she'd leaned over and kissed me— and not one of those short lived kisses either, the nasty kind that always left you wanting more. By the time our tongues were done wrestling, my dick was standing straight up in my pants and harder than a brick. Yesenia wasted no time noticing it. Before I could come to my senses, her head was in my lap and she was giving me the best throat I'd ever received. After that, I couldn't help but wonder what the pussy was like. I soon found that her head game was much better because the pussy was subpar too say the least. It was tight, but it wasn't all that wet. Luckily, I'd always preferred grip over slip. If I wanted to fuck something loose and wet, I would've just stuck my dick in a pool.

"Your dick is so good, papí. When can I have some more?" She asked, pressing her body up against mine, sticking her tongue in my ear. I wanted to bend her over again right there, but I simply pushed her back lightly and side stepped her to retrieve my phone and other items from the lower set of bleachers. "Come back to my dorm for round two?"

"Can't. I got somewhere to be, ma." I said shortly, pulling my pants back up around my waist as she folded her arms over her chest.

"Where you have to be?"

"Don't worry 'bout it." I placed my beats around my neck and tossed my duffle bag over my shoulder as I gave her a small head nod, before lightly jogging down the bleachers. I could hear her boots running behind me. She'd reached out and grabbed my hand once I'd made it to the sidewalk. She jumped right in front of me, halting my steps. I couldn't hide the annoyance in my voice if I wanted to. "What?"

"So, that's it? You got what you needed and now you're gonna be avoiding me all over campus, right?"

"Check this out." I stepped closer to her. "You wanted to fuck me. Did I approach you while you were working out and minding your own business? No. You did. You wanted this dick— and guess what? You got it. You got what the fuck you wanted. Ain't no need for us to sit here and pretend like this is something that it isn't. You wanted to fuck and we did. That's all it was and that's all it ever will be. So with that being said, get the fuck outta my way 'cus I got shit to do."

Her light skin had turned damn near red in a matter of seconds and I could tell she was seething with anger. "Fuck you, Kareem!" She screamed at me and I smirked at her.

"You already did, baby girl— and you loved it too." I walked around her, ignoring the curses and insults she was throwing at me, and made my way to my Mustang.

I hopped in and tossed my shit down in my passenger seat before starting my car up. As I began pulling out of the stadium parking lot, I could see Yesenia leaning against the wired gate with her gaze fixated in my direction. Even with the distance, I could tell she was burning a hole through me with her eyes. Knowing she was just salty about our encounter, I brushed it off as I turned out of the lot. While I drove down the road, nearing my apartment, my phone rang. A wave of guilt came over my body once Vida's name and picture flashed across the screen in my car.

"What's good, baby?" I asked casually.

"I wanna get out of this damn apartment. Your brothers are driving me crazy!" She semi-yelled into the receiver. I couldn't help but laugh.

Kendrick and Ky had been staying with me at the apartment for a few days now and while I was glad to be reunited with my older brothers, I knew V was about to lose her shit being cooped up with a bunch of niggas. Truth be told, I didn't feel like going anywhere tonight and that should've been the last thing on my mind since I had a paper due tonight for my Sports Marketing class. However, I knew that I was still on thin ice with Vida after that whole situation with the twins. She beat the shit outta me when she found out too, but I couldn't blame her.

Despite my best efforts and even getting my agent and lawyer involved, we weren't able to get the video down. Even if we were successful, it still wouldn't have made much of a difference. It had been shared all over the internet and social media, so I knew it was no use at this point. I saw the twins around school almost daily and they'd even still try to speak to me a couple times, but I was avoiding both of those bitches like the plague. "Yeah, we can go out later, baby. You got somewhere in mind?"

"Nope. I just wanna be out of the house."

"Aight, I'll make some shit shake."

"You better! I'm sick of these niggas— Kendrick drunk up all the liquor in your fridge and Kydric keeps leaving the toilet seat up! How long they staying anyways?"

"I don't know, V— but however long they need. I told you shit is hot for them right now, so if they gotta stay another couple days and a few more after that, then that's what's it's gone be. Look, I'm just glad to have the niggas back. I told you I thought I lost my brothers, ma."

"Nigga, you about to lose yo girl! Hurry up and get back home."

"I'm on the way, baby. Gimme a few minutes."

C O L E T T E
"CO CO"
MEMPHIS, TN
SEVEN am

Last night was a blur. People were running around screaming and panicking, even after the cops had showed up. It was a crazy scene. By the time the authorities did arrive, the assailant was long gone. Miraculously, no one had been shot. Of course a few people got trampled with everyone trying to rush out and all, but other than that no innocent bystanders had been injured. That fact alone confirmed to me what I'd already known— the man behind the mask was without a doubt, Nate. It made sense. He only wanted to get Black— and he was such a nice guy that I couldn't see him just shooting random people to get to his target. Although he hadn't gotten Black this time, I was sure that next time he'd have him for sure. Judging by his reaction, I was certain that if I asked him to join me now he would be all for it. My plan was working out quite nicely. However, I didn't mean to get myself shot in the process. Well, it was more of a graze really, but that still wasn't apart of the plan!

"How you feeling this morning?" I'd been in and out of sleep, resting my eyes for the better half of an hour, but hearing the voice had fully alerted me. I sat up on the cream colored sofa, slightly pushing the large blanket off of me. I looked up and Stacks was standing there in grey sweats and a T-shirt— his toned body on full display as he held his arm out, extending a cup of coffee to me.

"Way better than last night. Thank you." I smiled, taking the cup from him carefully, doing my best not to irritate the graze wound on my arm. Although Nate was indeed shooting at Black, one of his bullets ricocheted off the bar and nicked me right in the forearm, causing a deep abrasion to appear. The shit hurt like hell, but somehow I managed to get my ass up and get the hell out of dodge. When I made it outside, I was surprised to see Black and his girl hopping in his Challenger and hauling ass, burning rubber as he turned out of the parking lot. I could admit that him driving off with another bitch and leaving me behind had me feeling some type of way, but I quickly shook it off, remembering that he'd be dead soon enough.

It was just my luck that Stacks was coming out of the building at the same time I was and as if it was second nature, he grabbed my arm and led me over to his car. We'd pulled off not long after Black and he raced his Mercedes straight to his house. I kept apologizing for getting blood all over his white leather interior, but he assured me that it was okay. When we'd got to his house, he sat me down and examined my wound— applying pressure so the bleeding would stop, cleaning it thoroughly and then applying a bandage to it. I was taken back by how attentive he was and how he'd gone out of his way to make sure I was good. I'd never experienced that from a man before.

"How's the arm?" He asked me lifting it slightly to look at it as I sat my coffee cup down on a near by side table. As he examined my arm once again, I found myself examining him. His flawless light skin, the tattoos, his ripped body and don't get me started on those soft green eyes. I had to avert my gaze so he wouldn't catch me staring. Lord, this man was fine and he smelled so, so good. His wife was a lucky woman, that was for damn sure.

"Well, it definitely didn't heal over night— I'll tell you that much." I said once he'd gently released my arm. "But I really do appreciate what you did last night, Stacks— thank you."

"Call me Dominic." He smiled politely as I was getting up from the sofa. I was grateful for his kindness, but now it was time to get home for a much needed shower.

"Well thank you, Dominic."

"Ain't no problem. Besides, it's the least I could do. Can't have my business partner gettin' all shot up." He said with a smirk and I had to laugh at the notion of us being partners. I guess it was true in some way, seeing as how we were both teaming up to take down a common enemy.

Before either of us could say anything else, I heard footsteps thundering down the stairs. "Daddy!!" A little girl who couldn't have been older than four years old came rushing into the living room, jumping into Dominic's outstretched arms. She was his twin.

"Hey, my baby!" He tossed her in the air and kissed her cheek once he'd caught her. I couldn't help but smile at the exchange, it was heartwarming to say the least. "How'd you sleep, mamas?"

"I slept good, daddy— b-but Ezra and Elias kept coming in my room and taking my night light out!" The girl whined and just as she did, two boys came rushing down the stairs in matching pajamas. The boys looked nothing like Dominic, they were dark skin with light brown eyes and wide noses— a stark contrast from his light skin and slightly Eurocentric features. If I had to guess I'd say the boys were around eleven or twelve and it was clear that they were twins.

"She lyin', dad! That was Eli!" One of them shouted.

"Nuh uh, it was Ez!" The other shouted.

"It was boffa y'all bitches!" The little girl spat with attitude, catching me completely off guard.

"Aye, watch yo mouth." Dominic told her sternly before shooting his gaze to the boys. "And y'all two stop fuckin' wit your sister."

"How can you chastise her about what she's saying with a mouth as filthy as yours?" Everybody's heads snapped towards the stairs where a dark skin, shapely woman was coming down. Her hair was styled in a blunt cut bob and she wore a blue pinstripe blazer with matching slacks and a blue fedora on her head to compliment the ensemble. She looked as if she'd stepped straight out of a fashion magazine. As soon as her foot reached the last step, she was playing operation clean up:

"Paris, if I hear that word come out of your mouth again I'm gonna make you eat soap. Get upstairs and wait for me to come do your hair." She barked and the little girl jumped down from her father's arms and ran up the stairs.

"Ezra, get in the kitchen and fix breakfast— I just bought some eggs and bacon, so you shouldn't have any problem finding something to make. Elias go to the laundry room and get out the clothes I laid out last night, iron them and bring them back out here so I can see. Everybody should have something to do right now— Go!" Just like that the kids were off and I stood there awkwardly as Dominic went over to her.

"Well, good morning to you too, beautiful."

"Get your friend out of my house. I'm glad you helped out someone in need, but from the looks of it, she's all better now. Get her out." The broad said rudely, turning her nose up at me. I wanted to go the hell off, but I guess I could empathize. I'd probably react the same way if my husband brought a random woman home.

"That ain't no way to greet me first thing in the morning, Kishelle."

"I greet people however I damn well please!"

"Well, I ain't people— I'm yo husband."

"Good morning, Dominic. Happy?" She said dryly. "Now get your friend out of my damn house." That was the last thing she said before she turned on her heels and headed back up the stairs, stomping all the way.

"I love you too." I heard him mutter and I actually felt bad, having witnessed the encounter. He went over and grabbed his keys from the kitchen table before glancing at me. "Is there some place I can drop you off?" He asked.

"Yeah, you can drop me off my house— if you don't mind of course." I said.

"Nah, I don't."

After gathering my stuff, being sure not to leave anything behind, I was following him out the front door and down the driveway to his Mercedes. We hopped in and he pulled off down the street shortly after. As we cruised along the road, he seemed tense— quiet, but frustrated nevertheless.

"So that was your wife, huh?" I tried to make small talk with him as he plugged in my address to his GPS.

"Ten years." He said blankly.

"Wow. That's amazing, really."

"Yeah, my family's everything to me." He said glancing over in my direction for a split second and looking in his eyes for that brief moment, I knew he was telling the truth. Still, I couldn't help but wonder:

"So, I just have to ask—" Before I could get it out, he shot a knowing look my way.

"She was pregnant when I met her. The dude she was with hauled ass and the rest was history. We got married after six months of knowing one another. I was present for the birth, signed the certificates, cut the umbilical cords— I'm the only father they've ever known. So to answer the question that you just have to ask— yes, they're mine." He said, a hint of annoyance in his tone.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you—"

"No, I'm sorry. You didn't offend me. I'm just.. frustrated right now, that's all. My bad, Co." He said, easing back in his seat.

"Turn left here." I told him, once I recognized the street we were on. He did as I said and he cruised down the long road that was lined with million dollar homes. "So.. six months?" He smiled lightly, knowing what I was referring to.

"When you know, you know." He responded as he was pulling into the circular driveway. "Or at least, you think you do."

"I get that." I agreed. "Ten years of marriage is still a beautiful thing though. Marriage itself is beautiful. Then again, what do I know? I've never gotten remotely close to that. Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic."

"You're not hopeless." He said, his eyes lingering on mine. "You'll meet the right one some day— somebody who's deserving of you."

"I hope you're right." I smiled, swinging my door open. I didn't know if it was just me, but I was beginning to get hot and the intensity of his gaze was setting me on fire. I turned to him before I began to step out. "Listen,  I appreciate everything you did last night. Really I can't thank you enough. I'm gonna get myself situated and we should be in contact within the next few days." I told him and he nodded.

"Sounds good. Take care of that arm, aight?"

"Will do." I hopped out of his car and made my way to the front doors.

I watched him pull off and drive down the street before sticking my key in the door and going inside my house. The mansion really belonged to Black, however once I'd ran into him— literally— he insisted that I stay with him, because he didn't want Remy to try anything with me.

I hadn't heard from her in a while, but I already knew why. Before Black took over what used to be K.K.'s Playhouse, Remy was still the manager there. One night after deciding that he wanted the club for himself, he and his goons rushed in and tore the place up top to bottom— and anybody who objected was subject to a brutal beating. Remy, being the billy badass she was, thought she could take him on, but she soon found out that the nigga was crazier than she ever could've imagined. I was certain that the ass whooping he dished out to her was much worse than anyone else's, since it was more personal— Black couldn't stand Remy. I'd tried to call her multiple times throughout this past year but homegirl wanted nothing to do with me since I was back under Black, as she said. I decided not to press the issue, figuring it was best for us to just go our separate ways.

As I was about to head up the stairs for a shower, the doorbell rang. I did a light jog back down the steps, figuring it may have been Stacks since he'd left not too long ago. The minute I snatched the door open, someone was shoving me back inside. My back slammed against the front wall and the person had a Glock 10 steadied between my eyes. I instantly threw my hands up as I stared into the angry face of Nate.

"Gimme one good reason why I shouldn't blow your got damn head clean off your shoulders!" He gritted and I instantly felt my palms become sweaty. "Gimme one good reason why I shouldn't!!"

"Nate, listen, I know you're mad, but if you kill me we won't be able to take him down— you and I can get rid of Black for good, but we have to be on the same side!" I could hear his breathing pick up slightly and he pressed the gun directly against my forehead, causing me to draw in a quick breath.

"You let him... fuck... my child?" His hand was shaking and I could hear the hurt in his voice. "My baby?"

"I'm sorry, Nate, I am so sorry— but I needed you on my side, I still need you on my side! Y-You weren't gonna help me and I knew I had to do something to get you to hear me out, something to get your attention.."

"I want him gone as much as you do! Why do you think I haven't said anything all this time? My silence should've told you that I was already on your side, Colette! If I wasn't, I would've ratted you out a long time ago— you oughta know that! You mean to tell me you were so hellbent on getting your way that you would send my child— my fifteen year old child into that man's arms? You stooped that damn low, just so I could join you on your quest for revenge? It don't get no more fucked up than that!" He yelled. "But you know what? It worked— your stupid, fucked up plan.. worked. You have my damn attention now, Colette. So congratulations— I'll help you."

"Nate, I—" He cut me off by pressing the gun deeper into the skin between my eyebrows, his eyes glossy and filled with anger.

"Know this: He might've done the deed, but you.." He stepped closer to me. "You orchestrated it. So as soon as we put that son of a bitch in the dirt— I'm coming for you next." He glared at me, letting me know that he meant business before he lowered his gun and made his way out of the house without another word.

I didn't even realize I was holding my breath until he'd left out of the door. My heart was beating at a rapid rate and I was beginning to panic. Things were only getting started, yet I couldn't help but wonder if I'd bitten off more than I could chew.

C H I O M A
"CHI CHI"
2131 LORDS WAY DRIVE

"Hey, Mama Francis!" I beamed behind the screen door. She smiled big, pushing it open and stepping back allowing me to step inside. We embraced in a tight hug— one of those hugs where you really don't want to let go. The sweet scent of cinnamon hit my nose and the slow burning fire set the perfect mood for the cold, wet winter air. She and I walked into her living room and I took a seat on her leather recliner, melting into the seat.

"How you doin', love? Everything okay?" She asked, her warm smile never leaving her face. I knew I'd shocked her by popping up unexpectedly. Harley was supposed to be spending the weekend with her, but now I was picking her up already. The truth was that I was slightly on edge from the ordeal last night and all I wanted was to be around my daughter. She brought me so much peace. "I wasn't expecting you back this early."

"No, everything is good! Just missing my baby, you know?" I said and she nodded. My eyes searched the room and landed on Harley who was sound asleep, seated in a motorized bassinet. It was just my luck that Ms.Francis had four or five grand babies and thankfully, she didn't throw anything away. She'd gone all out at my baby shower, giving me all kinds of baby monitors, strollers and car seats and even a brand new crib. Her kindness was truly something that I adored about her and I was beyond grateful for having met her when I did.

"So, is that him?" She asked, raising an eyebrow. She leaned over the back of the sofa, pulling her curtains back slightly and peering out of them. I followed her gaze as she looked at Harlem's black on black Challenger parked in her driveway. His tint was so dark that you couldn't see inside, but thick gray smoke clouds erupted from the driver side window every few seconds or so.

"That's him." I said blankly. I had to admit that I was somewhat embarrassed that Ms.Francis didn't know the father of my child, when she'd been by my side from day one— even before Harley was born. She knew all about his and I's somewhat strange relationship and she knew full well that he was a dead beat father— the lowest of the low, in her book. When it came to him, she was my shoulder to cry on many times throughout my pregnancy— when he hadn't shown up to my gender reveal or my baby shower— or the birth of his child, for that matter. I'd done my fair share of bad mouthing him and crying over him to her, so I was certain that he wouldn't be able to redeem himself in her eyes.

"You should invite him in." Her words shocked me to say the least. I immediately shook my head no, a smile playing on my lips.

"Why— so you can cuss the poor thing out?" I asked lightheartedly, but when I looked over at Ms.Francis I could see that she didn't find the humor in my joke.

"The poor thing? Chioma, I have seen you cry over this man more times than I can count. If anyone is the poor thing in this situation, it's you. He spent your entire pregnancy rippin' and runnin' through the streets and even now, he's barely a father to that child."

"I know, but—" I gazed over at Harley as she rested peacefully and I smiled once she began stirring in her sleep. She looked so much like her father it was crazy. "I guess I'm kinda just holding out hope that things will get better."

"Honey, a little word of advice: some people don't deserve your hope. When a person shows you who they are— believe them the first time. I can't tell you how to live your life and I won't try to dictate it either, I just don't wanna see you hurt because you keep putting all your hope towards a lost cause." Ms.Francis stated and I honestly could feel where she was coming from. "Now, if you don't mind— I would like to meet him. If I were him, as a father, I would want to know whose caring for my child in my absence."

"I get that— I just.." My gaze shifted out of the window, lingering on his car for a few moments. "Let me talk to him first."

"Sure. Take all the time you need, honey— I'm not goin' anywhere." She said.

I stood up and the minute I did, I felt nervous. Harlem was so hard to read, I had no idea how he'd react— not to mention he was already in a funky ass mood.

He'd spent the entire night at the hotel trying to fuck me, but I refused all of his advances— even when he'd tried to go down on me and heaven knows how much I loved that man's tongue. It was hard, because I was more than ready to give him this pussy on a platter, especially after hearing him say that he thought he loved me too. It was the closest I'd gotten to getting some kind of emotion out of him and I wasn't taking it lightly. Regardless of how badly I wanted him, I stuck to my guns. I refused to have sex with him when it was obvious that he was sleeping around— judging by that damn phone call, the condom in his pocket and what Colette's trashy ass had said last night. As someone who worked in the health field, I'd seen my fair share of sex related horror stories and I damn sure wasn't trying to have one of my own. There was no way in hell I was fucking him again until I knew for sure that he was disease free.

Which was why he was in such a shitty mood. I knew Harlem had a thing about doctors offices, even still I'd dragged his ass down to the clinic first thing this morning to get an STD check. Whatever sexually transmitted disease you could think of, he got tested for it! I didn't mess around when it came to my body and I sure as hell wasn't fucking him until he received a clean bill of health. He'd already assured me that he 'wasn't gonna fuck anybody else' but until I got those test results back within the next twenty-four hours, this nigga couldn't touch me with a ten foot pole.

It was thundering loudly as I'd walked outside and I definitely didn't want to be caught in the storm. I jogged down the porch steps quickly and made my way to his car. He swung the door open and large billows of smoke came pouring out of the vehicle. "Wassup— where she at? I got shit to do."

"I'm about to bring her out in a few minutes, but um— Ms.Francis wants to meet you." I blurted and he immediately shook his head.

"Nah, shorty. I'm good on that." He said, leaning back in his seat and taking a long drag from the nearly finished blunt. I rolled my eyes, folding my arms and shifting my weight to one foot. I figured that he would say something along those lines.

"Come on, Harlem. Please? Look, Ms.Francis has been here since day one— she's the godmother of our daughter. I think it's only right that she knows both of Harley's parents." He stared me down, finishing his blunt and flicking it off to the side before shutting off his engine and getting out of the car— his built frame towering over mine. He looked damn good in his grey Jordan track suit and matching Cool Grey 11s. "Thank you." I said politely.

"You get on my fuckin' nerves." He said bluntly.

I stood on the tips of my toes, my face only inches away from his thick, succulent lips. "Likewise."

"Mhm." His eyes kept roaming down to my mouth and for a brief moment, he began leaning in. I pushed his chest lightly, putting some distance between us.

"Uh uh, baby. Twenty-four to forty-eight hours, remember?" I said, a small smirk playing on my face as he peered down at me. "Come on."

As he and I walked up to the front porch, I could see Ms.Francis jumping back from the curtains. I walked back inside and Harlem strolled in casually behind me. For reasons I didn't know my hands became clammy, I'd gotten nervous out of nowhere. I was glad to see that she'd moved Harley into the guest bedroom so we wouldn't disturb her nap.

"Ms.Francis, this is Harley's father, Black—" I'd said reluctantly. He hated for me to use his government name when it wasn't just the two of us. "— Black, this is Dr.Francis Turner, my mentor and Harley's godmother."

"Pleased to meet you, Mr.Black." Ms.Francis stood up, extending her hand out to Harlem but he simply looked at it. Paying no mind to his behavior, she retracted her hand but her eyes watched him for what seemed like an eternity— it was as if she was studying him. "Excuse me, I'm sorry. I seemed to have zoned out for a moment. P-Please, take a seat." She finally said, sitting down herself— never once taking her eyes off of him.

"Nah, I'm good." I fought the urge to roll my eyes, not believing that he was acting like this right now. I went over and sat next to her on the sofa as he leaned against the bar. There was a lingering silence in the air for a few moments and during that time I couldn't help but notice once again, that her eyes were laser focused on him. Before I could break the silence, Ms.Francis spoke up.

"Is your last name Mercy by any chance?Harlem...Mercy?" She inquired and Harlem's gaze shot over to me. Noticing his slightly perplexed reaction, Ms.Francis spoke again. "It is, isn't it?" She had this painful expression on her face, like she was remembering a bad memory. "I'd recognize those eyes anywhere."

"You know each other?" I found myself asking and she paused before speaking.

"He may not remember me, but I remember him." She said, staring him down like she couldn't believe he was standing there in front of her. I looked between the two of them, wondering what possible connection the two could've shared. "I've worked at St.Francis hospital over thirty years.. and never in my life had I seen such horror until this child began showing up in my emergency room. I was one of the nurses who helped clean him up whenever he came in all bruised and battered." She kept her gaze focused on him. "That was fairly often wasn't it, Harlem?"

"You better watch what the fuck you say." He snarled. "Bitch, you don't know shit about me."

"Harlem, stop—"

"Get the fuckin' baby and let's go!" He barked at me suddenly while reaching for the door handle. Ms.Francis began speaking again— halting his movements.

"I don't know shit about you? Young man, I know everything about you! I know your parents starved you for weeks on end, I know you had to eat whatever you could find. I know you endured brutal beatings with various objects— a broom, a belt, a lamp, an iron— you name it. I know your mother used to burn you with cigarettes and make you sleep outside during the winter months. I know your father used to cut you with his pocket knife. I know you were forced to piss and shit in the same basement that you laid your head in. I know that both your mother and your father sexually abused you at some point in your life. I know you were raped by multiple people when you were only ten years old—" Ms.Francis paused taking in a shaky breath as I sat there speechless, tears welling up in my own eyes at her shocking revelations. I could tell she was fighting back tears as well, as she continued speaking.

"Every broken bone, every bruised rib, every cut, every stab wound, every sickness that you got from those terrible living conditions— every medical report, every police report, every phone call to DCF— I remember it all. My coworkers and I tried so, so hard to get you out of that house, but we were cut off every time. The police were on your father's payroll, along with every other authority figure in Memphis during that time. They'd threaten us every time we tried to intervene, they'd throw out our documents and... they'd shut us out." Ms.Francis was full on crying now and she stood up, slowly making her way to Harlem, who was standing as still as a statue.

"It seemed like you were in our emergency room every week. Suddenly, you stopped coming as often. Then you didn't come at all. My coworkers and I prayed that things had gotten better— we prayed that they hadn't finally killed you. Years and years passed by and I didn't see you no more— but I always remembered your face and I hoped that I'd run into you some day." She grabbed his hands in hers. "I told myself when we did we cross paths again, I would tell you... that I was sorry." She cried hard. "I am so, so sorry, Harlem... I'm sorry that I couldn't help you."

Harlem's eyes were glossy, but that did nothing to shake his ice cold demeanor. He pulled his hands away from Ms.Francis. "I guess you do know everything about me... and that means that you know too much."

"Oh, my Lord.." He'd shocked both of us when he removed a shiny chrome pistol from his waistband, cocking it and aiming it straight at Ms.Francis.

"HARLEM, NO!!" I don't know what had come over me, but I'd jumped right in front of her and Harlem seemed to freeze up. Seconds later, I could hear the sound of my daughter's cries permeating through the house.

"Move." He spoke.

"Harlem, please— please don't this.."

"GET THE FUCK OUTTA MY WAY, CHIOMA!!!" He roared, causing she and I to jump— but I kept my feet planted firmly where I was. His breathing was rapid and he stormed over to me, shoving the pistol against my temple. "WHAT, YOU THINK I WON'T KILL YOU TOO?! HUH!?!"

"Don't do this, Harlem, please!! Please!" I was sobbing uncontrollably as the muzzle of the gun was pressed deep against my skin.

"Don't make me kill you, Chioma. Move."

"No— I, I can't do that.."

"You knew about this shit, didn't you?!" He asked angrily. "That's why the fuck you wanted me to come in here and meet this bitch, right??"

"I didn't know— I swear! Harlem, please put the gun down...please! "

"That's why y'all so close, right? She been telling you all my business and shit?"

"No! It was never like that, Harlem—"

"Man, get the fuck outta my way, girl!" He didn't allow me to finish my sentence. He grabbed my arm and tried to pull me aside, but I stood firm— resisting him the entire time.

"I can't let you do this.." I cried and held Ms.Francis' hand tight as she stood behind me, crying and muttering prayers. "You take her a-and...you take me too." I'd stated and his fiery gaze burned a hole into me.

"I can't fuckin' do that and you know it." He said lowly. He and I stared at each other intensely and it was at that moment that I noticed a single tear fall from his eye, before he quickly wiped it away. "FUCK!!" I didn't even have time to process what I saw, because in a matter of seconds, he was shooting his pistol at the ceiling— dust and pieces of the plaster crumbling down on top of us as we screamed and shielded our bodies. When I opened my eyes again Harlem was gone, but the front door was wide open. I sprang to my feet before I could stop myself and rushed outside, despite Ms.Francis crying out for me.

"Harlem?" I approached him cautiously as he sat on one of the porch steps, his pistol dangling in his hand. I took a seat next to him, although he didn't respond. He sat with his gaze trained ahead, staring off absentmindedly. I wanted so badly to hug him, to tell him that I was sorry he had such a traumatic life and that I loved him— to tell him that I was here for him. There was so much I wanted to say, but I ended up saying nothing at all. So he and I sat there in silence, watching as a light rain began to fall from the sky.

"You know too much about me now— about my life and I wanna handle that. I wanna kill you— but I can't." He spoke lowly, glancing over at me.

"...How do you feel right now?" I asked him. His calm demeanor was eerie and somewhat strange to me.

"Vulnerable— and I hate that shit."

"Harlem, I am so sorry." I found myself saying, moving closer to him and resting my hand on his. I did my best to ignore the pistol in his hand. I could feel tears welling up in my eyes once again. Hearing Ms.Francis say those things had really made my stomach turn. My heart hurt for him. "I'm here, okay? I'm here for you."

"I know. I can't figure out why though."

"Because I love you, Harlem."

He simply nodded his head and he seemed hesitant as he began speaking again.

"You know, last night I said I thought that I loved you too— but now I know it for a fact. Imagine that— I'm supposed to be a cold muhfucka, one of the most ruthless out here in these streets— and I done fucked around and fell in love with somebody.... You make me so fuckin' weak, Chioma. If it was anybody else, I could put a bullet in they skull wit no problem. But not you. You make me feel things, shorty— something that was foreign to me for so long; I can't sleep unless you next to me; and you're the one person that I can't hurt— even if I wanted to, I couldn't do it. You got me— I fuckin' love you, Chioma and I ain't denying it no more." He turned to face me and instead of his usual dull and lifeless gaze, his eyes were glassy. He seemed tense and I could tell that he was uncomfortable being in such a vulnerable state, but looking into his eyes at that exact moment, all I could see was a broken man.

K E N D R I C K
"KEN"
ATHENS, GA

It was a cool, cloudy day in Athens. Thick clouds were etched across the sky, and although a wedge of sunlight peeked through every now and then, it was still brutally cold. Why Kareem wanted us to sit outside in this weather, I had no idea. It had been nice staying with him and reconnecting these last few days. Although we hadn't seen each other in a while, it was almost like we'd picked up right where we left off. He filled me in on everything going on in his life and I did my best to let him know what I'd been up to all this time. I left out the part about by uncontrollable drinking habits. I already had Kydric down my back about it and that was enough.

After we joined him for brunch that day, I wasn't all that surprised to see that he was dating this chick, Vida, from back home in Memphis. They'd always been good friends before eventually fucking around— that was how it always happened though. It was a true testament to the whole best friends to lovers pipeline. I guess I was happy for him, I was glad he wasn't all alone in another state by himself, however something about Vida didn't sit right with me. It could've been the fact that her attitude was so nasty, but then again I didn't know for sure. I figured her pissy demeanor could easily be attributed to Kareem's lifestyle. He'd gone out at around six this morning to get a good workout in and when he returned an hour later, the nigga shuffled in quickly and headed straight to the shower. One would guess that he just wanted to clean up after a good workout, but I knew better. I'd caught a whiff of him when he'd walked past and of course, there was the pungent smell of sex reeking from his clothes.

Part of me wondered if Vida payed any mind to it since she was awake when he'd come back in. If she noticed, she didn't say anything, but her attitude and demeanor were very stand-offish after the fact. Even as we sat outside of the upscale diner, she was leaned back in her seat— arms folded over her chest while she glared at him as he signed some girl's hand.

"Thank you so much, KD. I'm really your biggest fan." The girl sang sweetly, leaning over the table slightly causing her breast to push out. Kydric and I looked at each other before sipping from our coffee cups. Vida looked like she was about to grab one of the forks and stab ole girl in the eye. Reem gave the girl a smile before handing her back the pen she'd given him. She shot him a flirtatious look before eventually leaving our table.

" I can't believe y'all heading back to Memphis today. I thought y'all was staying 'til Tuesday." Kareem said, ignoring the side-eye that Vida was giving him.

"We were, but we gotta get back home, man. It's some shit we need to handle— we gotta make some shit right, you know? Besides, the food out here ain't hittin' on shit." Kydric joked, pushing his plate away.

"Aye, I get it. Y'all got shit to take care of on the home front. I can't trip off that." Reem said, stabbing at his eggs and bacon. "I mean, I was pissed off at first but shit, I'm just glad y'all still alive, man. For the longest, I didn't know what to think."

"Well, the important thing is that we all here— we back together again and that's all that matters." I'd stated. "We just wanted to come check on our lil brother since you all Hollywood now."

"Never that." He smirked.

Just as I was about to respond, I got a phone call. I excused myself from the table and he headed for the restroom inside. I didn't answer it until I was in the furthest stall in the back.

"You just done forgot all 'bout a nigga, huh?" He spoke into the receiver before I could.

"Nah, I told you I was goin' out of town, remember? I had to come check on my family and shit."

"So, I'ma see ya when ya get back or what?"

"I'll work somethin' out, man. We'll link up soon."

"Shit, I hope so. I'm tryna see if you can back up all dat shit you was talkin' in dem messages."

"You'll find out soon." I said. "Look, I'll get up with you when I'm back in the city, aight? I'm actually heading back that way within the next thirty minutes— I'm tryna get on the road soon, so I'll probably be back later this evening."

"Oh, das wassup den. Bet dat up. Lemme go 'head and book dis room fo' us."

"I don't know, man. I might be kinda tired—"

"Nah, don't back track now. A nigga been tryna link wit ya fa' too long. Let's make dis shit happen." He said and I don't know why I looked around like someone was listening to me.

"Aight, fuck it. Do what you do. I'll hit you up when I'm back." He and I hung up after a few more exchanges and I sat my phone down on the small counter in the restroom, before running a hand over my face.

This past year had been tough on me. Not only had I lost my lover, but my best friend as well. I spent my days now grieving and dealing with agonizing loneliness. Despite my brothers being back in my life, which I was truly grateful for, I still longed for companionship— or maybe I just needed a good fuck, I still hadn't figured it out. Either way, it was the reason that I'd grown desperate a few weeks ago and joined this online dating app.

Still wanting to remain low key, I didn't reveal anything about my identity— just a picture of my abs, my age and a short bio that read: looking for a good time. I know— pitiful. Although I swung both ways, I listed my gender preference as women and since I'd done so, I didn't expect a guy to be the first person to message me.

Dr.FeelGood_ was his screen name and judging by his profile picture, which only showcased his body from the neck down— I knew the nigga had to be fine. His mocha skinned body was buff and covered in tattoos and since he was throwing up some kind of gang sign, the tattoos on his knuckles were visible as well. He had an eight pack and the deep V leading down to his boxers had my mouth watering. We'd been talking every day for the past few weeks, flirting a little bit and even exchanging risky photographs— both of us choosing to leave our faces out. It was nice having someone to shoot the shit with and the fact that I found out he resided in Memphis made it even better. These last couple days we'd been at it non-stop. We were talking to each other every second of the day and he'd even called me as he was rubbing one out. It had been over a year since I'd fucked last and this was the horniest I'd been since then.

We hadn't formally exchanged names yet, with him telling me to just call him Pierre, his last name apparently and me opting to use my middle name, Jamal. The more he and I talked and flirted around, detailing what we wanted to do to one another, the more nervous I became. I knew people were crazy these days and the internet was a sure way to draw out creeps. Obviously when I'd signed up for the damn app, I wasn't expecting to gain anything from it— but since I had, I was also more than ready to meet up with this mystery man.

As I prepared to leave from the restroom, my phone pinged with a notification. I grabbed it and unlocked it, opening a message from Pierre. My member instantly stiffened in my jeans. To my surprise, it was a picture of his fat, chocolate nine inch dick. The veiny muscle was standing at attention with a pretty, pink mushroom head and a nice curve to it. I stared at the photo, admiring the beautiful piece of meat and I couldn't wait to devour it.

I'd seen his dick before, but only through the fabric of his briefs or his sweatpants. Seeing it for the first time in all its glory had me salivating at the mouth damn near. It had been so, so long and I was more than ready to satisfy my thirst for a good fuck.

Go ahead and book that room.
I'll see you tonight sexy.

I'd texted him. He responded back to me in a few seconds, sending me details for a hotel on the outskirts of Memphis in Arlington. I smirked, thinking that he worked quickly. I wondered if I'd have enough time to get back home, get cleaned up and to drive another thirty minutes outside of Memphis just to meet up with him. It was only ten in the morning and if we left soon, it would put us back in Memphis around five or six in the evening, given the seven hour trip. It might've been pushing it, but I figured it couldn't hurt to try.

When I got back to the table, Kareem and Vida were bickering about something and Kydric caught my gaze, tapping the watch on his wrist. I fought the urge to laugh as I lightly tapped Reem, pulling his attention away from Vida's verbal assaults.

"It was good to see you, kid. Me and Ky gotta be out though. We got a long ride back." I said and he nodded, getting up as we slapped hands. Kydric stood up as well, slapping hands with Reem also.

"Look, if you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out, aight? You got our new contact information, use it. We ain't letting another year go past without us speaking, man." Ky spoke in a serious tone.

"Nah, fasho. I'll hit y'all up, man. Like I said, I'm just glad to have y'all back." Reem said. "Do me a favor when y'all get back in the city though: swing by Aunt Deb's for a minute. I don't call her as often as I should, but when I have called, she ain't answer."

I nodded. "Don't stress it. We'll go see about her when we get back." I assured him.

"Y'all be safe, man." He said. I knew he wasn't only referring to our seven hour trip back, but our plan to take back the streets that once belonged to us. We'd made sure he was good, but now it was back to business as usual.

K A R E E M
"KD"
ATHENS, GA
HOURS LATER

"Come on— you ain't still mad are you?" I asked, kissing her cheek. It was pushing on three in the afternoon and Vida was still in her pissy ass mood from earlier. Ever since I'd started getting somewhat famous, she couldn't stand how random chicks would come up to me, asking for my autograph or for pictures. I didn't think much of it and I did my best to assure her that I didn't care about any of those broads, but it seemed like she still found a way to be pissed one way or another. She ignored my question, keeping her gaze focused on the court as the Georgia Bulldogs spanked the Kentucky wildcats. After taking her on a shopping spree at the mall and getting her nails and toes done, we'd come to my school's basketball game since she wasn't ready to go back home yet.

Even with me spending the entire day with her and sparing no expense, she was still being stand-offish towards me and part of me hoped like hell that she didn't catch me in a lie or something. I hoped she hadn't noticed anything when I'd snuck back in this morning. With those thoughts clouding my mind, I couldn't help but feel a little paranoid. As my eyes roamed over the packed arena, my gaze accidentally found Takira's as she stood cheering court-side. She noticed me looking and she blew a kiss my way. I quickly looked somewhere else, hoping like hell that Vida hadn't noticed.

"There's your little friend." She said, motioning to exactly where I'd been looking only seconds prior.

"Stop actin' like that, baby. These hoes don't mean nothin' me to me— you gotta know that, Vida. You know you got me." I tried to reason with her, my attention focused on her rather than the exciting game up ahead. She sipped on her fountain drink, never once breaking her gaze from the court.

"Whatever, Kareem. Let's just watch the game." She said flatly.

This shit was beyond aggravating. Yeah I fucked around every now and then, but I was still coming home to her every night and she was still the girl that I loved and spoiled on a consistent basis. So what the fuck was up? I even didn't have the energy to go back and forth with her. We both sat there and watched as one of Georgia's players went up for a dunk just as the shot clock went off and the sound of the buzzer pierced the air. The crowd went wild, cheerful screams echoing inside the massive building. The slight headache I currently had, mixed with the roaring crowd didn't mix well at all.

"I'll be right back. I'ma go get something from the concession stand." I said getting up from the bleachers.

"Whatever. Don't trip and fall in some pussy on your way there." She rolled her eyes. That was the last straw.

"Man, what the fuck you talkin' about, Vida? If you got some shit to say, just say it already!"

"Don't st—"

"AYO, KAREEM!!" Someone yelled before she could respond. My eyes shot over to the end of the bleachers and I saw my teammate Yasin coming in my direction. I started to greet him, but the closer he got the more I realized that he was charging toward me and his face was filled with rage. Looking past him, I saw Yesenia standing not too far behind and somehow I knew that shit was about to hit the fan. "YOU RAPED MY SISTER, NIGGA?! WE SUPPOSED TO BE BOYS AND YOU FORCE MY LIL SISTER TO FUCK YOU??"

Before I could even tell him that he had it all wrong, he'd decked me straight in the nose causing me to stumble back on the bleachers. I didn't have any time to recover since he came charging at me again, swinging his fist wildly, catching me twice in my jaw. Yasin was bigger than I was, standing at six-six and weighing in at, at least two-hundred-sixty pounds. He was the star linebacker for our team and his size made him a force to be reckoned with. I wasn't no bitch and I damn sure wasn't about to lay down and get my ass whooped, but his size made it damn hard to retaliate.

I could hear curses and screams and flashes from cameras going off as all the attention was now centered on the fight happening in the bleachers. Yasin and I were going blow for blow and eventually I'd overpowered him, slamming him down before delivering a swift punch to his face. He shoved me hard and I staggered back, wiping blood from my lips.

"Bro, I swear I ain't force your sister to do anything! She fuckin lyin— she came and found me!" I tried to explain. "YESENIA, TELL HIM!" I yelled, but in an instant he was back on his feet, angrily charging at me again. I could hear the sound of heavy feet running up the bleachers and before I knew what was happening, four uniformed security officers were dragging both Yasin and I away from one another.

"YOU AIN'T GONE GET AWAY WITH THIS SHIT, FUCK NIGGA! YOU CAN BET THAT SHIT!" He'd shouted, bucking around, trying to break free from the security guards. "YOU A DEAD MAN!"

The security guards dragged me off in the opposite direction and all but shoved me out of the arena doors. "Don't take it personal, KD. Just doin' my job." The bigger of the two, a guy named Bruce, said to me before going back inside and shutting the doors behind him.

I didn't even know what to say or how to process this shit. I wouldn't deny that I was a little cold to her after our escapade, but Yesenia telling her brother that I'd raped her was a curve ball I didn't see coming. Blood dripped from my nose and I wiped it away, taking a seat in one of the plastic chairs that lined the wall. This was all too much. Part of me wanted to call up my brothers, but they'd been on the road for hours now and I damn sure didn't want to make them turn all the way around. I'd just have to deal with this on my own the best way I could.

"You really shouldn't go around fucking everybody, Kareem." Vida's voice penetrated my ears and my head shot up— our gazes meeting. She stood in front of me with her arms folded and a look on her face that I couldn't read.

"Baby, I didn't force that girl to do shit. I swear."

"Yeah, but you still fucked her, Kareem.." She said. "Just like I knew you would."

"Wait, what?" That last part had thrown me for a complete loop and I figured that I hadn't heard her right. "Just like you knew I would? The fuck does that mean, Vida?"

"Oh come on, Kareem. How do you think she knew where to find you? It took a few hundred dollars but I convinced Yesenia to push up on you— I promised her even more money if she cried rape afterwards. I just knew you'd take the bait. I told you I was sick of you fucking around on me! I mean, your life has just been one big fuck fest since we got out here. Blanca, Kimbella, Reneé from your analytics class, those hoe ass twins, Ta'Kira and Ta'Kara— you want me to go back further than the last few months? 'Cus there's a shit ton of other names! It's all good though, Kareem. You know why? 'Cus I'm gonna get even. This will teach you not to go around sticking your dick in every bitch!"

I couldn't even believe what I was hearing right now. "You set me up?"

"Yep and like the true low down, dog ass nigga that you are, you fell for it."

"What the fuck you plan to gain from this, Vida? Huh!?"

"You mean besides the satisfaction of fucking up your precious little football career before it even starts? Since you raped her, Yesenia's gonna go public tomorrow and that's gonna bring a lot of unwanted attention to your school— we're gonna sue the shit out of you too since you have so much money these days. God, I can't wait. Oh, honey, you have no idea how much I'm gonna gain. I'm just getting started with your ass. By the time I'm done with you, you'll be broke and penniless and you're gonna wish you had fucked over another girl." She smiled at me and I felt my stomach turning. "We'll be seeing you soon, Mr.Knighton."

K E N D R I C K
"KEN"
ARLINGTON, TENNESSEE
NINE pm

We were finally back in Memphis and I was beyond thankful. Georgia was nice and all, but it wasn't home. It didn't matter where I went, I always seemed to get somewhat homesick. Even when I left for Sacramento, I didn't really feel like I belonged there. It was just something about being home, near the streets I was raised in. We'd gotten back around six in the evening, much later than I'd planned due to Kydric's frequent need to stop and use the restroom or grab snacks every now and then. I swear he'd always been the most terrible road partner. When he finally did get settled, he'd spent damn near two hours snoring like a fucking grizzly bear. When we finally made it back to my apartment, I hauled ass upstairs— not even bothering to grab any of my luggage.

I'd been looking somewhat dusty for the last few weeks, neglecting my once extensive self care routines and even skipping out on shaving. My hair had grown thick and nappy on my head and after weeks of not being bothered by it, I decided it was time to get myself back together. Luckily for me, the best barber in the game was currently rooming with me and he didn't mind cutting my hair. My lineup was crisp and the thick beard I had grown was now cut down and my usual goatee was trimmed to perfection. After taking a long hot shower, I stared at myself in the mirror for what seemed like hours.

This was the best I'd looked since B's funeral. I looked good with my hair cut and my face shaved, my body looked good too, though I wasn't as cut as I used to be. I was still fit since recently I'd put some weight back on because my eating habits had gotten better. I'd also taken the time to shave down below since I had a date tonight. I knew I looked good and I'd gotten a nice boost of confidence after cleaning myself up.

I'd spent the next hour trying to figure out what to wear, before I ultimately went for a Grizzlies jersey, True jeans and my timbs. I figured I could keep it simple, since we were just supposed to be fucking. It wasn't like the nigga was taking me to dinner or some shit, we both knew what it was.

By the time eight o'clock hit, I'd got a decent nap in, I was cleaned up and cut up— looking good, and despite all Kydric's questioning, I managed to leave the apartment with no problem. The entire time that I'd made the long, thirty-five minute drive to Arlington I was contemplating whether or not I really wanted to do this.

It was nine o'clock at night and even now as I stood standing outside of the hotel room door, my mind was running rampant. I hated that I had to resort to this measure, but I was desperate and I was practically craving a warm body, even if it was just for tonight.

Swallowing my pride, I tapped on the door a few times. I heard some light shuffling on the other side and after a few moments, it was swinging back— revealing a handsome, mocha skinned dude with slanted brown eyes and big, thick lips that covered his diamond grills. He wore only a pair of silk boxers and the numerous tattoos that decorated his muscular body were on full display. I couldn't lie. This nigga was fine as shit.

"Ya gone come in or ya gone stand thea' wit ya mouf open?" He asked cockily, leaning against the door— his eyes raking me up and down. He moved back and I stepped inside after a few moments.

He'd gone all out choosing this hotel. It was in the upscale part of Arlington and the room was big and spacious with an enormous king-sized bed, a large flat screen TV and a jacuzzi tub right in the middle of the room. I was impressed that he'd chosen a VIP suite and I figured that he had to have deep pockets.

"You spared no expense with the hotel, I see." I told him, taking a seat on the edge of the jacuzzi.

"I'm a classy nigga, yunno? I like da finer thangs in life." He said, his accent turning me on slightly. "Besides, I ain't want our first meetin' ta be in some rinky-dink joint, ya feel meh?"

Nah, I don't feel you— yet. I thought to myself. I simply nodded my head, appreciating the fact that he hadn't chosen some rundown motel or something. "So, Pierre, is it?"

"That's ya way of askin' a nigga fa his name?" He laughed and I shrugged, although it was true.

"It's Saigon. Saigon Pierre." He said with authority, like his name should've been etched on the Hollywood walk of fame or something. I was digging his confidence. "And how 'bout you, Jamal?"

"Actually, it's Kendrick. Jamal's my middle name."

"Kendrick. I like dat." His muscles flexed as he walked across the room, retrieving a half smoked blunt from a nearby ashtray. He sparked it up, inhaling deeply and he looked sexy as fuck as he exhaled billows of smoke from his plump lips. I couldn't stop staring at them. I wanted to kiss him— but I figured I'd better see where his boundaries were first. There were always those guys who were in denial about their sexuality and something as intimate as kissing would set them off at the drop of a dime. I'd seen it.

"So, you gay, Saigon?" I'd asked. He strutted over me, stopping in front of me and holding his blunt to my lips. It had been a while since I'd smoked, but I took a long drag anyway— inhaling and exhaling like a pro.

"I ain't a damn thang." He finally answered. "I don't care much fa labels. I do what makes me feel good, yunno? I think da' world would be a whole lot betta' if everybody else did da' same."

"I fuck wit that." I said honestly.

His eyes became low and he tilted my chin up, pulling his blunt from my lips before covering them with his own. His kiss was was slow and sensual, his lips warm and soft. I'd parted my lips slightly to expel a breath and he took that opportunity to push his tongue in my mouth. He gripped my chin gently, caressing my tongue intricately with his, like we were lovers instead of two random men linking up for a fuck. His kiss was much more passionate than I'd anticipated and it left me speechless to say the least.

"You fuck wit dat too?" He asked after pulling away from me. I nodded my head and he placed one last peck on my lips. "Come'ea." He pulled me up from where I was sitting and led me over to the large king sized bed that was decorated with a deep red comforter and lots of matching pillows. He placed the rest of his blunt down in the ashtray, before coming back over to me.

"Let's get ya outta these clothes." He tugged at my jersey and pulled it over my head swiftly as I fumbled around with my jeans— impatiently trying to undo my zipper. He halted my actions by grabbing my face in his hands gently. "Slow down. Relax. Ya got me all night— ain't no need ta rush."

He kissed my lips once again and I damn near nutted on the spot. His aura was so... laid back and sensual. I was so hard that I was poking through my clothes. He undid my jeans for me and reached down into my boxers, his cold hand wrapping around my fully erect dick. He stroked my shaft gradually, making my breathing pick up before he laid me back on the bed. He pulled my jeans and boxers off completely and let them fall to the floor. He stepped out of his boxers as well before helping me lean all the way back on the bed.

He got on top of me, kissing my neck and trailing more down my body before stopping at my dick. He grabbed my stiffness and licked the slit on the tip before opening his mouth wide and engulfing my meaty piece entirely. I felt my body go rigid and my breathing hitch.

"Aah, fuck." I groaned throatily, laying my head back on one of the pillows. He jutted out his tongue, licking the underside of my dick, bobbing his head back and forth. I was breathing deeply and heavily, my ears filled with the melodic sounds of him slurping and gargling my dick. The feeling was euphoric and moans, grunts, groans and sighs left my mouth every time he pulled my throbbing dick out of his mouth and licked and sucked all over my tip. For the next ten minutes, he devoured my dick hungrily, yet there was a delicate touch to the way that he did it. He was sucking me like he loved me— that shit was driving me wild.

"Gahhdamn, this dick taste good." He licked my balls and sucked them into his mouth one by one, making me shudder in delight. I found myself lightly thrusting my hips, humping his face— sliding my dick across his sweet tongue. His throat was relaxed and I swear I stopped breathing each time he made my dick disappear in his mouth. My body began trembling once he started twirling his tongue around the head of my dick.

"U-Ughhh, shit! I'm... finna—" Before I could get another word out, my body raised slightly from the bed and I was flooding his mouth with my warm nut, busting off in his jaws. To my surprise, he didn't stop there. He spit on my shaft and used one of his hands to stroke my dick— rapidly jerking my thick piece of meat up and down. Next, he sucked on his long fingers, lubing them up before shoving them deep into my ass. As he stroked my dick and finger fucked my asshole, his mouth was wide open— awaiting my second wave of nut that was sure to come any second.

"AWW, FUCK! AH! AHH!!" I was gyrating my hips on his fingers when another nut ripped through me, thick spurts of semen shooting from the tip of my dick and onto his eager tongue. My body trembled with the fervor of an earthquake as cum oozed from my dick. His tongue was covered in the white liquid and after milking my dick dry, twisting his hand up and down my length, he'd swallowed my nut skillfully.

As I laid there recovering from the tight suction of his beautiful mouth and the masterful strokes of his hand, he climbed up my body and laid on top of me for a few seconds— burying his face in my neck and grinding our members together. I was still breathless and recovering from the head. I'd nutted so hard, I swear I wasn't thinking straight.

"I'll be right back, aight?" He told me, kissing my chest before getting off of me and disappearing from the room briefly. I just laid there, legs open and my mouth agape. I couldn't believe the shit I'd just experienced.

He came strolling back into the room with a bottle of almond oil in his hand, as well as a small pack of condoms. He tossed the items down on the nightstand.

"Turn ova'." He said seductively and me being as horny as I was, I wasted no time. I laid on my stomach, folding my arms in front of me and resting my chin on them. I could feel the bed dip down as he climbed on, straddling my lower back. "Just relax fa' me." He'd said, and truthfully I didn't know if I could be any more relaxed than I already was. His head had me feeling weak and I was damn near ready to fall the fuck asleep.

Soon I felt a warm liquid spilling onto my back. The scent was pleasant and I figured it was the almond oil that he had gotten. He began rubbing the oil into my skin slowly, his touch sensuous. He started at the base of my neck, relieving it of any tension, then he moved on to my shoulders and finally to my back. His movements were careful and methodical and they aroused me every time his fingers made contact with my skin. "Mmm." I was groaning deeply as he kneaded my back, massaging the oil into it. He'd worked his way down to my ass and began massaging it in circular motions. I had to admit that I'd fallen asleep for three or four minutes as he was applying pressure to my body.

I woke back up just in time to turn around and see him slipping a condom over his rock hard member. He picked up the bottle of almond oil, pouring some on his hand before rubbing his oily fingers between my asscheeks. As I lay on my stomach, he came and laid down on top of me and began kissing on my neck— lightly grinding on me. "You aight?" He asked. "I see I 'bout put that ass ta' sleep."

"Almost." I grinned, half way out of it.

"Well, wake dat ass up. It's show time, beybeh boy. Let's get dis nut togetha', den we'll go ta' sleep." My dick was hard as fuck just at the sound of his smooth voice. I craned my neck over my shoulder and he leaned up to kiss me just as he was sinking himself deep into my ass. Saigon filled my hole to the brim in one long, deep stroke and lay still for a moment, allowing me to get used to his size.

"Ughh, shit." I'd groaned at the feeling of his thick dick stretching my hole wide. He was so deep that our balls rubbed up against one another's as he began to thrust into me gently. He kissed my shoulder while I squirmed and moaned, loving the way he stretched my ass open. My dick was so hard I was surprised it hadn't stabbed through the hotel mattress. "Awww, fuckkk.."

He snaked his dick into me further and deeper and I didn't hesitate to twist my ass, winding my hips as my ass devoured his beautiful dick. "Mhmm.. Gimme dat ass." He moaned.

We began to grind roughly— him into my ass and me humping the mattress below me as he drove his dick into me, giving me the best slow dicking of my life. He twisted and crammed his meat inside and I attempted to scoot up on the bed. Saigon followed me, pressing his body down harder on top of mine and giving me a slow burn, dicking me down deep. I was taking it slow and rough, and every few seconds or so he'd pull his monster dick out of my ass and then drive it right back in.

"Shit." I'd gritted out. I sat up, positioning myself on all fours as his dick still rested inside me. His slow, passionate fucking had definitely turned me on— but now I just wanted this nigga to dig my fuckin' back out. He was fucking me doggystyle, squatting behind me on the bed and gripping my shoulders to hold himself up. I threw it back fast and furiously on him. "Mmm. Fuck me, nigga." I'd said through clenched teeth, reaching down between my legs to stroke my own throbbing dick.

We were both dripping with sweat and as I gripped the mattress with my free hand, taking him hard and fast, our wet skin slapped together violently. He kept one hand resting on my shoulder and used the other to reach under me, holding my stomach tightly as his dick pulsed in side me.

"Shit, I'm finna bust this ass open." His strokes became a little less coordinated and he buried his dick deep into me, sinking it all the way down— making it disappear as we both grunted, moaned and groaned. "Hea' it come.. Ugghhh, gahhhdamnn!" After a few more quick thrusts, his body jerked and he was unloading a fat nut deep into the condom. Right as his body spasmed, I'd erupted my own juices as well, falling back down onto the mattress when I was done. He followed after me, continuing to hump my ass vigorously, riding out his nut while he licked and sucked on my neck.

"Fuckkk." He groaned, sitting up after a few seconds and removing his dick from my ass. He was on his knees, tapping my asscheeks with his dick and rubbing the head up against my slightly sore hole. When he was done, he collapsed back down on top of me— grinding me lightly. "Now we ca' go ta' sleep." He mumbled, panting lightly— sounding already halfway knocked out.

His buff body laid heavily on top of mine, but I didn't even care. I smiled sheepishly, exhausted but satisfied from his immaculate fucking. It didn't take long for me to doze off, with the sweet feeling of his now flaccid dick pressed up against my damp back.

When my eyes opened again, hours had passed but he was still out cold on top of me. He had his face resting in my neck and I could feel his body rising and falling with each breath he took. I was still very tired and I started to go back to sleep until I realized that I had to piss. For a few moments I tried to make myself fall back asleep, but it was no use. My bladder was too full to ignore. I huffed in frustration, realizing that I'd have to get up from my comfortable position.

I pushed myself up slowly, doing my best not to wake him, but his eyes partially fluttered open. "My bad. I gotta take a leak."

He didn't even respond. In fact, he still looked half out of it but he raised up a little, lazily rolling off to the side so that I could get up. I stumbled around in the darkness for a few minutes before finding my balance and making my way into the huge, door-less bathroom. My ass was slightly sore, but it was a welcomed sensation. As I stood at the toilet, emptying the tank, I heard a low ringing sound in my ears. Thinking I was trippin, I finished my business and went over to the sink, washing my hands and admiring my fresh cut in the mirror again.

Just as I was about to head back into the room, the ringing sound flooded my ears for the second time. Deciding to explore, I rummaged around the counter, trying to listen hard so I that I could pinpoint exactly where the ringing was coming from. After pulling out one of the drawers and lifting a durag, I'd found the source of the noise— Saigon's phone. Looking back behind me, I made sure he was still knocked out before grabbing it.

I damn near dropped the phone when I saw the name flashing across the screen: BLACK. It couldn't possibly be that Black. The one who was plotting on my downfall, the one who'd taken over the city that used to belong to me. It couldn't be that Black— could it? I didn't know what the hell I was thinking. What other Black could it have been? Saigon lived in Memphis, exuded hood nigga energy and clearly he had a decent amount of money in his pockets— working for Harlem, I figured. It made sense, but there was only one way to find out for sure. Before I could really give it much thought I'd answered the call, holding the phone up to my ear.

"I just sent you an address. Meet me there in ten minutes. I got a dog that need to be put down." His signature deep voice spoke in code, confirming what I already knew. I kept quiet. "..What's up? You heard me or what?" Eventually he hung up after a few moments of silence went by.

I couldn't believe the coincidence. What were the odds that I'd end up in bed with someone who worked for the very man I was trying to take down? Feeling curious, I'd gone to their message thread to see what Harlem had sent him. Just as he'd said, it was an address: 2131 LORDS WAY DRIVE

I placed his phone back down in the drawer, covering it with the durag like he'd had it, before closing it back. I leaned against the sink, the gears in my head turning as I tried to figure out a way to capitalize off of this very useful information.

H A R L E M
"BLACK"
MEMPHIS, TN
TWO am

I had to do everything myself, but I wouldn't complain about it. Whatever Saigon had going on was irrelevant to me since I had much bigger things to focus on. One thing about me— if I had a desire to take someone's life then I'd do it by any means necessary— with or without help. I wouldn't rest until the deed was done. It might not have been right when I wanted to, but somehow I always circled back around to it and accomplished my goal. I'd never let anybody get off Scott free and I'd be damned if I started now. Leaning against the brick mailbox, I glanced down at the letters in gold plates reading: Francis. Smoke filled my lungs as I took a long pull from my blunt. I was dressed to kill in my black cargo pants, long trench coat that concealed my two pistols and black gloves covering my hands. I tossed my blunt down on the ground as I stared ahead at the large brick home in front of me. After picking up the gas canister at my feet, I trekked forward with thoughts of murder filling my head.

I was a pro at this shit. It didn't take long for me to go behind the house and cut the security wires using a pair of pliers. In the middle of the whole ordeal, I'd noticed the alarm pad on the side of the wall. I knew it wouldn't be wise to just go in without a clear game plan. Luckily, I had always been a calculated muthafucka and the minute she fixed her lips to utter my life story, I was plotting her death.

It was nothing personal. I just preferred to keep a low profile— my somewhat mysterious persona was one of my strong suits. This woman, who I didn't even recognize, knowing so much about me didn't sit well with me at all. As she stood there spilling my business, I began having flashbacks of each and everything that she mentioned. She served as a window into my past— a past that I desperately wanted to forget. As long as she drew breath, I wouldn't be able to. She was a reminder, a painful memory of my past. She was my past personified and because of that, she had to die.

Chioma would take it hard— no doubt about it, but in due time, she'd get over it. I couldn't believe that I'd come out of character and confessed my feelings for her— like a straight up bitch, I'd even fucked around and let a tear fall in front of her. As crazy as it sounds, I really did mean what I said. She was a valued addition in my life. I cared about her. I loved her. I could never hurt her. However, the soft spot I'd developed was solely for her and her alone. This Francis bitch didn't mean a damn thing to me and taking her life wouldn't be any different from the hundreds of other lives I had taken over the years. Shit hadn't changed. I'd still be the same murderous nigga that I'd been since birth. I was born to do this shit. I was a born killer. Only now, I had an exception— a beautiful, brown skinned soft spirited exception. The mother of my daughter, Chioma Kiyemi Judon. She might've been the exception.. but for everybody else, it was business as usual— free game and my first opponent was the bitch my woman had come to love so much.

Oh, well.

Off with her head.

I'd successfully entered the dark house through her back door after picking the lock. The white dust and pieces of the ceiling were still scattered across her checkered tile floors and I stepped in the mess, crunching the particles beneath my boots. Now that I was inside I didn't give a damn if she heard me or not.

I crept up the staircase, running my gloved hand along the banister— dust collecting on the tip of my finger. When I'd reached the top of the steps, I spotted the main bedroom with ease. The atmosphere was dark but the door to the room was slightly ajar and I could tell a TV was on due to the soft glow illuminating a small portion of the hallway. Not knowing if she was awake, I swiftly removed my pistol from my coat as I stalked toward the room.

As I inched closer I could hear the faint sound of the TV playing what sounded like an episode of the show Martin. I peered inside the room, expecting to see the bitch sound asleep, but to my surprise, the bed was empty. Within seconds I was on high alert and I spun around just in time to see Ms.Francis lunging at me in her night gown, a sharp kitchen knife in her hand.

"Ah, shit!" I'd snapped in surprise, as the old bitch managed to jab the cold steel deep into my forearm. She'd viciously ripped it out and swung her arm back to attack me again, but always quick on my feet, I raised my pistol and shot her between the eyes with point blank accuracy before she could stab me again. She collapsed to the floor and her blood began spilling out onto the tile.

I could feel warm liquid dripping down my coat sleeve and I held my arm at an angle, being careful not to let any of my blood drop. I walked over to the lifeless bitch, standing over her while I glared down at the bullet hole in her head. I couldn't believe I'd let somebody catch me off guard like that— especially some bitch in her sixties with a fuckin' kitchen knife. The thought infuriated me and despite the searing pain in my arm, I pulled out my other pistol. Both of my hands were outstretched, a nine-millimeter Smith & Wesson in one and a .45 caliber Desert Eagle in the other.

I unloaded both of the pistols, lighting her ass up like I was a cowboy in a muthafuckin western. It sounded like I was shooting fireworks in that bitch, but I didn't stop until I'd emptied every last bullet. Her being dead just didn't satisfy me. Once I looked down at her badly disfigured, bullet riddled face I felt a little better.

I stuffed my pistols back into my coat as I did a light jog down the stairs to retrieve the gas canister I'd left by the back door.

I walked around the house, tilting the canister of flammable liquid and dumping it all over the place. I drenched her living room furniture before moving upstairs and dumping the rest of the gas over her stiff body. I kept a spare blunt tucked behind my ear most of the time and this time was no exception. I held the blunt between my lips, grabbing the lighter from my pocket and sparking it up. After a few moments, I tapped the ashes over her body before flicking the lighter once more, tossing it onto her chest.

The minute the flame hit the gasoline, her body was set ablaze and engulfed in fire. The smell of burning flesh instantly hit my nose and the flames rose so high that they caressed the ceiling, before dying back down. I tapped the ashes from my blunt over the blaze and then turned away to do the same thing downstairs.

I'd brought two lighters with me tonight and after I'd tossed the second one onto her couch, it didn't take long for the rest of the living room to catch fire. Plumes of smoke permeated through the house as the flames consumed everything that I'd doused in gasoline. I inhaled and exhaled from my blunt, leaving out of the back door like a thief in the night with the sounds of the crackling flames behind me.

CHAPTER 8 COMPLETE!
Long chapter for y'all ❤️

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