A MAFIA’S BILLIONAIRE VIRGIN BRIDE

A ST. EMERALD ARRANGED MARRIAGE

MADAM WISE

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 CONTENTS

A Mafia Billionaire Virgin Bride

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Synopsis
1. Amari Moody
2. Domonick “Slaughta” Rivera
3. Givonnia “Lana” Rossi
4. Britnee “Britt” Farnemn
5. Channing “Chan” Moody
6. Amari “Mari”
7. Channing “Chan”
8. Slaughta
9. Britt
10. Chan
11. Cali “Chaos” Moody
12. Mari
13. Slaughta
14. Britt
15. Amari
16. Rocco “Roc” German
17. Amari Moody
18. Domonick “Slaugtha”
19. Mari
20. Domonick Rivera
21. Britt
22. Chaos
23. Channing
24. Amari Moody

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A MAFIA BILLIONAIRE VIRGIN BRIDE
A ST. EMERALD ARRANGED MARRIAGE STORY

Madam Wise

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 SYNOPSIS

Synopsis:
Amari Moody, the daughter of a powerful mafia boss, is navigating her life
with a mental health disorder and a troubled past. Just as she is finding her
footing, her world is turned upside down when her father arranges a
marriage between her and Domonick Rivera, the son of a rival cartel
leader.

Amari is hesitant, but as she gets to know Domonick, she finds herself
drawn to him in ways she can't explain. Meanwhile, finding out her best
friend Britt is pregnant with Amari's brother Channing's child causes a rift
in their lifelong friendship.

As the wedding approaches, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed,

threatening to tear apart the delicate balance of power in the criminal
underworld. Amari must decide if she can trust Domonick and embrace this
unexpected union.

With high-stakes drama, sizzling romance, and glimpses into the lavish yet
dangerous world of organized crime, this captivating story will keep you
turning the pages to uncover the fate of these interconnected characters.

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 To my babies,
This book is dedicated to you. Your laughter fills my days with joy and
hopefulness.
You are the reason for my dreams. May you always chase your passions,
Embrace your kindness and know that my love for you guys have no limits.
You can achieve anything you set your mind too.
Love always,
Mommy <3

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 CHAPTER 1
AMARI MOODY
DIFFERENT.

WE ALL WAKE up one day and want a change. We want something

new. We need something fresh. All my life, I have been running from my
demons, but nothing is physical about mine. From the outside looking in, I
look like the perfect swirl of caramel with a hint of mocha. Being a
descendant of a half-Afro-Italian family molded me into the beautiful, thick
woman I am today. I have the type of demons that haunt you when you’re
the most vulnerable and emotional.
“Amari, get up and out of that damn bed!” my mom, better known as
the Moody Mafia first lady, Alikay, yelled.
“Amari, yo’ ass better be at the breakfast table in fifteen minutes; you
know how your Padre gets!” I threw the pillow at the door in pure
frustration.
Even though she saved me from a catoptric dream, she could have saved
that shit too. I could care less about eating breakfast.
Let’s rewind a bit so you can know exactly who I am. I am the only
daughter of St. Emerald Island's largest mafia organization. My name is
Amari Moody… trust me, I can live up to my last name if you give me a
little time… teehee, but anyway…
My Padre, Chaos, also known as The Boss, is known for his ruthless
and even hasty antics in organized crime. Papa stood about 6 '4'', his skin
resembled the creamy hue of butterscotch, smooth and seamless, and his
physique was built like he never missed a day in the gym. We are the
descendants of the Kapote Mafia and our family has ties all over the
country.
 My grandfather is considered to be the boss of all bosses within the
mafia. If there was anyone you didn’t want to see coming—it was him.
Let’s just say my Padre is the man many fear and respect while the
ladies worship the ground he walks on. He has always been my heart– my
knight and shining armor. He has always taken care of me like the princess
I am. I love my Padre, but he has some of the worst methods. His words
were final, and nothing else or no one could question them— except one
person, Alikay.
“Aye, ma! Have you seen my medicine?” I tracked down the stairs.
Her ass would come up here to wake me up but forget the most essential
part of my day, as they would call it.
I need to go ahead and tell y’all, though. I may be considered a little bit
closer to crazy than sane nowadays. I suffer from Schizoaffective Disorder,
which is a combination of Bipolar and Schizophrenia that work
simultaneously, creating both extreme emotional highs and lows for me.
And for me, I heard a very strong womanly voice during those times.
No huge deal, right? You would think.
My mood swings are regulated flawlessly because of the medicine that I
take twice daily. No one outside my family truly knows what issues I
possess, except of course, Brittnee. I understand what y’all are thinking–
How can the mafia boss' daughter suffer from a disorder that Padre's money
can’t fix?
Well, let me tell you, it hasn’t always been easy. I got this aggravating
ass shit from my dad’s side of the family. From his mother to be exact, and
it’s been a struggle to cope with it and learn to manage. It didn’t start
rearing its ugly head until my senior year of high school. Of course, I had
no idea what the hell was going on, but my Parde knew exactly what it was
because his mom had suffered from it for years. The only difference
between my grandmother and me is that I sought help. I knew I was fucked
up in the head a little bit, and something was off. The night of my
breakdown right before senior prom sent me into a snowfall of
hallucinations for about three months.
“Yo! Amari, where yo’ simp ass at? We need to get going. Dad told me
to take you to pick up your dress. I ain’t got all damn day, Amari!”
Channing, my older brother, barked.
He knocked on my door a few times, but something or somebody was
holding my body in place. No one or nothing could move me. I was scared
that my dangerous thoughts would consume me. I didn’t know what to do,
but I knew living life wasn’t what I wanted. I knew something was wrong
with me, but I never tried to get any help. I told no one because no one
would believe me. These events that have been happening couldn’t be my
life.
“Yo! Amari! What are you doing, mane? Bring yo’ monkey ass on!”
Channing seethed, but I said nothing. Finally, he walked away, so I thought
I was clear. The handful of pills that I was about to consume were waiting
on me, and I knew I couldn’t back down now. As I glanced at myself in the
mirror, the shell of who I once was stared back at me. My round, pouty lips
were cracked, my chubby, round, full face with high cheekbones appeared
significantly slimmer, and my round, doe brown eyes were sunken in. I
didn’t recognize the person who was looking at me.
I grabbed the cup on my bathroom sink, filled it with water, and then I
hurried to throw those pills back before someone else came to get me out of
my room. I just want to sleep. Sleep is what I need. I swallowed all the pills.
It was hard, but I got them down. I’m just going to lie down for a little
while. Hopefully, I will feel better as I lay down in my massive California
king sleigh bed. My head started spinning, but my thoughts were finally
fading away. I wasn’t down anymore. I couldn’t feel anything. My brother,
Channing, kicked the door in as I drifted asleep. I peeked over at him, and
before he could say another word. I began to seize. Finally, everything went
black.
That was the worst day of my life.
The voices in my head would never stop after that night after he left.
They consumed me. Amari, you can’t live without him. We can’t live without
him, Amari. If he doesn’t come back then we might as well die too. AMARI!
Go find him. We need him. NOW, AMARI!
I realized what my trigger was. Nobody would ever know about us, and
I had to keep it that way. We were safer that way!
It affected everyone in numerous ways. Everyone was so scared I
wasn’t going to pull through. I immediately checked into a mental facility
and was placed on a 24-hour psychological hold. After the hold, my family
put me in a psychiatric facility for about two months, where I received
around-the-clock care. That’s when I finally opened up about the voice I
had been hearing periodically for about four years before my mental break.
I explained that when I’m really down or something terrible has happened
in my life, I can’t shake the feeling that it didn’t get any better. It consumed
me. I always felt like I was suffocating. It was so hard some days to get out
of bed and continue.
Dr. Brinks was the best of the best. My Padre gave her a hefty salary to
be my doctor during my psychiatric stay at the facility. After a series of
tests, I came out with a diagnosis and a new outlook on life. I was given the
proper medicine to care for my disorders. After that horrible night, my dad
made me promise him that no matter how hard life gets, I would always
find someone to talk to. Things have improved, but I felt like I was missing
something. I was missing out on life. My disorder held me captive, and so
did my parents. I was ready to let loose. It had been about four years since
my senior year suicide attempt. I am now twenty-two years old and in my
last semester of college. If it wasn’t for my bestie Brittnee, I would have
drowned emotionally a long time ago. That was the only person I was
allowed to be with overnight outside of my parents and brother. She was so
mad at me after that night. She couldn’t believe that I had attempted to take
my own life, and I didn’t tell her something was wrong.
I jogged down the golden spiral staircase on the left side of the foyer. As
you enter the Moody compound’s front door, it is illuminated with
extremely white tile floors and walls. My Padre helped save my reputation
by withdrawing me from school at the time and telling everyone I was
homeschooled, which was furthest from the truth back then. I went on to
graduate high school and enrolled at my local community college since my
Padre said it was a no-go for me to go off to college by myself after my
series of episodes.
It made him overprotective even more than he was before. In two days,
I will graduate with my associate degree in business administration.
Y’all girl bout to fuck shit up!
I was also one of the baddest hairstylists in the Northeast area of St.
Emerald and had been perfecting my craft since I was a teen. Hair was my
life, and I loved everything about it! I will soon be opening Mari’s Beauty
Bar in the heart of St. Emerald Island. A bitch is finna be lit out here, you
hear me!
My mom and Padre were seated at this long table like he was King Tut.
I said good morning and hugged my Padre around his neck.
He glanced at me. “Good Morning, my princess. Did you get enough
sleep last night? You know you have to be well-rested, sweetheart.”
 “Yes, Padre, I did. I got in around ten last night after hanging with
Brittnee and went straight to bed. And before you ask, I’m headed to the
kitchen now to take my medicine. I’m doing fine, Padre,” I expressed him.
My mom spoke very few words, but when she needed to be heard,
believe me when I say she will be heard. I love that woman, but we have a
love/hate relationship. She always tells me that I reminded her so much of
herself when she was my age. I just find that hard to believe since she’s so
bougie and uptight all the time. Yo’ girl, here is the life of the party at all
times... Whenever I got to attend one anyway. My Padre keeps me in the
house like a caged animal. Then here comes my brother, Channing walking
in; he could do no wrong in my mom’s eyes. If only I was a snitch and
could tell her the countless nights I have had to sneak Channing back into
the house after him sneaking out. That’s another story for a different time,
though.
Channing kissed my mom’s cheek and mine and then sat beside my
Padre. Channing was next in line to take over the Moody Mafia. Chaos
glanced at my brother before exchanging a knowing head nod.
“Yo! Chaos, I need you to meet me at the spot later to chop it up. I got
some stuff I gotta handle down at the club. We need to go over a few
things,” Channing stressed.
“Bet, hijo. I’ll see you in a few hours,” Chaos uttered.
I was so over them and the mafia. Since all of that went down, I was on
such a short leash. If I didn’t spend so much time with my bestie, Brittnee, I
would be locked up in this house, going crazier than I already am. I was
ready to let loose. We all ate the spread the chef set it up for us and I was
stuffed. Those cheesy eggs, cheese grits, bacon, sausage, and French toast
hit different when you don’t have to cook it. We all made small talk until it
was time to part ways and prepare for the day. I jetted upstairs to call
Brittnee to see what was up for today. After my ten o’clock class, I was free
and ready to start my weekend early. I threw myself onto my plush Ugg
comforter and called Brittnee.
“What’s it to do, Bitchhhhhh?! What are we getting into today?” I
yelled into the phone. I knew she would be annoyed because she was
probably still asleep, and I was up and loud this fine morning. “Amari, why
are you calling me at nine, bitch? You know I work late. What you want,
and it better be a damn emergency with the way you're yelling?” Brittnee
huffed.
 “Whatever, hoe! I’m coming over after my class, so you better be ready
when I arrive. Shopping on me!” I shrieked.
“Bitch, stop yelling, damn. My head hurts from drinking a little too
much on the clock, and I think I hit my head on the headboard a time or two
last night, just playing… just playinggg.” She chuckled.
“Ouuuuuuuuuuu, somebody got them some dick last night! I’m jealous,
bitch. Was it superior? Shit, it had to be if you left that nigga to knock your
brain loose like that.” I laughed with my tongue out.
“Babyyy, let me tell you, it was better than good. That nigga was hung
like a horse. He didn’t miss one inch of this wet goodness.” Britt chuckled.
“You never told me the guy’s name you fucking with, and I’m starting
to feel some type of way, Britt,” I fussed.
“Don’t worry about me, hoe! I’m gonna be a ready, hoe; you just be on
time. You’ll be here around twelve?” she inquired.
“Yes, sis. We’re going to the St. Emerald Island Shoppe Plaza, then to
Emerald Wolf Plaza, so put your good shoes on.” I cackled.
After getting off the phone with Brittnee, I had to hurry up and get
ready. I walked over to my spacious walk-in closet and pulled down a
Balenciaga fitted dress with matching platform sandals. Then I went into
my bathroom and began doing my hair. My long jet-black tresses was
wrapped in a high bun, so I took it down to straighten it. After about fifteen
minutes of getting myself together hair-wise, I scanned over my curvy
figure, and babyyyy, I must say, I’m big fine. I have always been a bit on
the heavier side, but since I started taking my medicine regularly, I’ve filled
out even more. I must say, I’m thicker than a snicker with meat in all the
right places. “Periodttttttt, sis!” I chanted to myself in the mirror.
With my thick, juicy thighs, high cheekbones, and slim, thick waist with
a set of double D’s to match. I was it, baby.
Looking down at my clock, I realized that I had thirty minutes to get to
class on time. I high tailed it out of my room and down the stairs. My 2023
caramel-colored G-Wagon was parked out front waiting for me. It was a
graduation present for my padre. He told me how proud he was of me as he
handed me the keys a few days ago. I hopped in and pulled off. I raced the
clock the whole way to campus, pulling up about five minutes shy of the
class start time. I quickly made a straight beeline to my psychology class,
walked in, grabbed a seat at the back, and waited for the lectures to begin.
___________________
 I walked out of class with nothing short of a growling stomach. That
professor had to be the most boring, monotonous speaker I have ever seen.
As I walked through campus of course the niggas just couldn’t resist a thick
woman without tryna get at them. I hadn’t dated in a while. That little
mishap stemmed from so many different emotions, and I was not about to
go down that road again. I was never one to commit to anyone or anything
after that. I liked being free. My freedom was everything because my
parents took so much away after that night. Even though it was my fault,
and they just wanted to protect me, it was still hard to get an ounce of
freedom. This dude from my class, Matt, had been trying to get my number
since the beginning of the semester, but I turned him down each and every
time. Matt was cute and all, but he just wasn’t my type. I love a nigga with
a little bit of gangsta in them. As I was walking to my car, I realized that
Matt was leaning up against my hood.
Like I said, he was cute but too clean-cut for me. He was going to
school to become a pharmacist, and I’m sure he thought he could handle
me, but he just didn't know.
As I approached, he stood up straight. “What’s up, Amari? You look
hella sexy today. What are you about to get into?” I twisted my face up and
gawked at him because his voice didn’t sound normal.
“I’m about to go meet up with my bestie. We’re going shopping today
and I’m late already. Is there something you need?” I quizzed.
“Oh no, you just didn't stop to talk to me before leaving class in a hurry,
so I wanted to make sure you’re fine. I’ll see you around,” he said as he
walked off. What the fuck was that? I thought to myself. I don’t even talk to
him every day.
I watched him as he walked away toward the building and disappeared
into the double doors at the front of the school. A strange feeling came over
me, but I decided to shake it off. I was ready to go out with my bestie now. I
climbed in my truck, turned on Kevin Gates’ “Super General Freestyle,”
and started rapping my ass off. This song has so much power and pain
wrapped in it, there was no way you couldn’t feel it…

If you my nigga, then I'm Nobody gon' play with you when I'm with you
I ain't gon' lie, son, since you left my side, got more security with you
 I called my bestie before pulling up to her house because babyyyy you
never know what her ass was doing in there. It’s been plenty of times I have
walked in, and she had a nigga deep throated while sitting on the couch.
When I say deep-throated, it was not an exaggeration because sis would
have cum and saliva everywhere. My friend got hers, but I didn’t need to
see it. I would just hurry back out the door and wait until she called me
when she was done. She answered on the second ring.
“BESTIE! What’s poppin'? Are you on your way?” she quizzed.
“Yes, sis. I'll be there in three minutes. Don’t be in there being nasty
before I walk in, and you better be ready with your always late ass,” I
fussed.
“Bitch! I’m ready. You must be ready to pop out with me tonight at
Club Blend. I’m sure it’s gone be some fine ass niggas in the building, and
all I need is a few moments of their time,” she said, smiling from ear to ear.
This hoe, but I can't do anything but love her, I thought.
“Now you know I gotta let my parents know I’m staying with you
tonight. Channing is going to be there, but I don’t want to be a part of no
bullshit, and I know he's going be with all of it,” I fussed. He could be so
overbearing at times. I was sick but not that damn sick that I needed
supervision all the damn time.
I was so ready to be free of my parents and my brother hovering over
me like a dying, sickly teen. I was neither. My lapse in judgment cost me
my freedom in more ways than one. I peeked down at my phone and
speaking of the motherfuckin’ devil, Channing was calling me.
I told Brit that I would be pulling up in like three minutes and to get her
ass outside while I told my brother I wasn’t coming home tonight.
As I answered, Channing was yelling at someone in the background.
“Channing, what do you want? And why are you yelling like somebody
pissed in yo’ damn cereal? Shut yo’ ass up yelling in my damn ear.” I rolled
my eyes dramatically like he could see me.
“Where are you, Bug?” Channing questioned, calling me by the
nickname he gave me years ago. I was just checking on you. What’s up with
your funky ass attitude?”
“I’m just ready for y’all to let my fucking leash go. I’m an adult now. I
take my medicine every day with no questions asked, I am about to
graduate and I just wanna be free, dude! Why can’t y’all understand that?” I
quizzed.
 He let out a long sigh, “Look, I know what you mean, and that's why
I’m calling you. I want you to roll with me to this new club my partner and
I are opening, Club Blend. It’s our grand opening and I want you to be
there,” he voiced.
“Ooouuu! Brother, you thought about little ole me? Well, can I meet you
there? Brittnee and I were going to be going there tonight anyway, and I
want to get dressed at her house with her,” I squealed.
“That’s cool, sis. Hit me up when y’all are on the way. Don’t worry, I
got your parents,” he stated like they weren’t his.
“Thank you, brother. I love you!” I yelled while ending the call. My
plans were a go and I’m ready like never before. I pulled up, Brit climbed in
my truck, and I sped off.
“Girl, why are you over there smiling so damn wide?” Brittnee looked
at me with curiosity.
“Because my brother is finally realizing that I’m a grown ass woman
out here in these streets. I’m so ready to get me a man and just vibe out. I’m
ready to be grown and sexy. I’m stepping out tonight, sister. Just wait,” I
vocalized with my tongue out.
We made small talk until we got to the outlet. As we got out, I watched
our surroundings. That’s something my Padre and brother always told me.
People will catch you slipping when you least expect it, and let's just say
being the princess of a well-known mafia boss, I could easily be a target as
a young woman. I just pray that nothing happens because I don’t know if
my mental can handle anything else.
“Girl, it’s hot as fuck out here today! You know I melt like chocolate.
What store are we going in first? I want to go to Chanel. I saw these cute
ass dresses online and I want one. This is on you, right because you know
my money can look a little fun at times?” Britt giggled.
“That’s cool. I think I want a black dress or something,” I voiced as we
walked the strip. I couldn’t control my excitement about tonight. This was
the first time in a long time that I would be out and free without a care in
the world. If only this could last forever.
___________________
We were just wrapping up our shopping trip and let me just tell you, I
found exactly what I was looking for. This fine ass man with different
colored eyes walked into Chanel.
 I spotted him or whatever, but he seemed so damn mean, so I wasn’t
about to say shit. I ain’t just no thirst bucket out here in these streets. I held
my standards high for many reasons. My folks didn’t raise no hoe. We
continued shopping and I noticed he kept stealing glances at me as we
shopped. I paid him no attention because we were about to check out
anyway.
“Britt, you see that fine ass specimen of a man over there. He thinks I
can’t see his fine ass, but he’s for sure watching us,” I whispered through
my teeth with a smile plastered on my face to disguise the words.
Brittnee glanced back and noticed him too. “Baby sis, he's looking at
you, boo. Gone over there to talk to him,” Britt squealed.
“Ummmmm… noooo ma’am. I don’t do the chasing, my girl! If he
wants a taste, he has to chase,” I declared with my tongue out.
“NEXT!” the counter associate yelled out, interrupting our
conversation. Almost made you think she was mad about the nigga, but I
sweep it off.
We walked up, placed our things on the counter and she began ringing
our items up. “Your total is six thousand three hundred and eleven dollars.
Are you paying with cash or a card?” she kindly asked. Her demeanor
seemed to have changed in just that short amount of time.
Before I could respond to her, I felt a large pair of muscular yet soft
hands on my thick waist. I just knew it wasn’t so. I turned around so fast
that I thought my own head was going to spin off.
I sized this man up. I couldn’t hide my lust from him at first, but I had
to gain my composure because he wasn’t about to catch me slipping. I fixed
my face instantly while taking in his entire appearance. I wanted to drink a
tall glass of whatever the fuck he was serving, but I had to play it cool.
“Why are you touching me? Who are you exactly?” I spat.
He peered at me for a brief moment then chuckled. I wanted to smack
the shit out of him and kiss him all at the same time, but I held my
composure. “Nigga, I don’t know you,” I seethed through clenched teeth.
“It’s cool, sweetheart. I got the ticket, and to answer your question, I
know you don’t know me, but you can get to know me,” he said while
eyeing me lustfully.
“I was just touching something that I found quite alluring. Don’t even
sweat it, and oh yeah, fix your language when you talk to your man. All that
cursing isn't cute with yo’ sexy ass,” he leaned down and whispered against
my ear.
My breathing hitched and a small moan escaped my lips. He caught me
off guard with that one, and even though it was cute, he stepped to me in the
most disrespectful way, so it was time for me to exit stage left because he
had me all the way fucked up.
This nigga could get it though, I thought to myself as I eyed him
lustfully. He woke up parts of me that were only reserved for him. Those
memories came flooding back as my panties became soaked as I stood there
with his large yet soft hands were placed on my hips. I crossed my legs to
control the throbbing down in my leaking center and took a small step back
to create some space between us.
“LET ME GO RIGHT NOW BEFORE I SPAZZ ON YOU, BRUH!
Don’t touch me again either because I belong to no one. Oh, and secondly,
find out my name before you tell me I’m yours.” He examined me and
chuckled again.
Gotdammit, he was pissing me off with his sexy ass. I didn’t see what
was funny, but whatever.
I leaned forward to see what was funny and he gave me a sinister smile.
Right before he took his tongue and ran it across my lips. Then he turned
around and walked out of the store, leaving me standing there stuck and
bothered. Lord, who and what was that? I nearly fainted.
“No ma’am. Who the hell is that, Amari Moody? He was a little
comfortable touching all over you in these folks’ fine establishment, don’t
you think?” Brittnee interrogated with a raised brow.
I said nothing until he was completely out of our line of sight.
“I have no idea, Brittnee. Did you not hear what I asked him? I was
trying to figure the shit out myself.”
“You are not about to sit here and tell me that you don’t know this man
and you just let him touch all over you. This is not the Amari I know. Let
me check your temp,” she said while extending the back of her hand to my
forehead.
I swatted her hand away and we both started laughing. That fine
specimen of a man touching all over me. That feeling was the highlight of
my day … the electrical waves. Tonight shall be fun.
----------------------------------------------------
 We left the mall after shopping until we dropped. I’m so prepared to
decide what I’m wearing.
“Brittnee, do you ever think I will be able to live a normal life and have
kids and stuff? I know my disorder makes it hard to maintain life after
having kids, but I feel like I’m in such a better place now.”
“Amari, of course you can. You are beautiful, smart, single, and let’s not
forget, you’re a damn catch, baby girl. Any man would be blessed to have
you, baby girl. I swear. Don’t ever think otherwise.”
“What about me, you know… being a virgin and everything?” I
mumbled quietly, like someone was listening. Tell me why this bitch
laughed. I just glanced at her while trying to keep my eyes on the road as
well.
“Amari, I’m sorry, baby but don’t none of these niggas care about you
being a virgin. If you give it, they’ll take it, sis. I promise. Just don’t give
that cookie to someone who ain’t worthy of your precious gem. I sure as
hell wish I would have kept mine from the raggedy ass nigga I gave it to.
He just ain’t shit at all,” she mumbled roughly.
“I know it, girl. I’m just a little nervous. I haven’t been this close to
niggas in a long time. I just hope Channing is on his best behavior and isn’t
out here embarrassing me like I’m not grown!” I exclaimed while rolling
my eyes.
“Channing better sit down somewhere. He ain't running shit, but his
mouth and I’ll tell him myself if he tries it. I got you, Amari. We’re going to
drink and let our hair down a little bit,” Britt commented.
“Well, you know I can't drink much, but I don’t know. I might empty
the bottle tonight. A blunt or two won’t be half bad either.” I excitedly
shimmed in the driver's seat. “Let’s see what tonight holds, my sister.”

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 2
DOMONICK “SLAUGHTA” RIVERA
INTRIGUING.

AIN’T nothing like being in your city and everybody showing love. I
walked into the outlet to get an outfit for tonight. My bodyguards, Boz and
Hammer were walking a few feet behind me. It was time for me to step out
for a little bit. I had been handling business back in Miami with my
brothers, Dereck and Deangelo. Life has been great. My pops has been
asking me for about a year now when I will be ready to take over the family
business and settle down, but I haven’t quite figured out if I even want that
responsibility.
My pop was one of the suavest yet, dangerous men out there. Juan
Rivera was the boss of the West Miami Rivera Cartel. He shipped and sold
everything from guns to women, from Panama City Beach down to Tampa
and even internationally sometimes. He had it on lock. Selling women for
monetary gain wasn’t my style but I stayed out of his business just like he
stayed out of mine until now. He has asked me the same question every
time he’s seen me during our monthly meetings to go over finances. He
wants to know if I found a woman to settle down and start a family with.
His words were always, “Hijo, when you find your ancora di salvezza
(lifeline), you’ll never breathe normally when she’s not around. That’s a
promise. I want you to feel love like the one I and your mother have.”
___________________
After shopping for a little bit, a nigga was hungry and ready to find a
baddie to fuck on for a little bit, so I called up Lana. She was the one that
got an acceptable bit of my attention now. No, she wasn’t my girl, but I did
break her off some good dick and some money from time to time. I haven’t
seen her in about a month or so, so this visit was long overdue. She’s a
lawyer at Dawson and Lawson law firm in Chicago, IL, but she has recently
relocated to take over their St. Emerald Island office.
“Hello?” her voice was a little raspy like she was sleeping.
“What’s up, baby girl? I just got back in town and I’m trying to slide
through for a little bit. What do you got going? ” I quizzed.
“I just laid down for a nap before going out tonight with my girls, but
you’re more than welcome to slide through. You know how to get in. See
you in a few.” Lana hung up.
That’s one thing I can say about her, she didn’t get caught up in her
feelings. She fucked me and her throat game was killer, so I did exactly
what she said. I took my ass on the thirty minute drive to her house in
Blackwater Falls, just south of St. Emerald Island.
When I pulled up to her craftsman-style house, I got out of the car with
my bag of food from Kyoto’s Japanese Grill. I got her ass some of those
nasty ass sushi rolls she liked. I grabbed the spare key from under the
doormat and let myself in. Her house was spacious and always clean like I
liked it. She was a little OCD, but I couldn’t complain. I kicked my shoes
off at the front door. She was not about to start bitching and nagging me
today about some damn shoes on her carpet. I ain’t got time for it, and I will
leave as soon as she starts, I swear.
I walked into the living room as she came down the oak stairs to the left
of me. “Is this for me?” Lana smiled. “Thank you, Slaughta. I haven’t eaten
all day.” We sat down and chopped it up about her job and my work for a
little bit as we ate. She was cool and all, but I just couldn’t find myself
settling down with her. I always felt like she was hiding something from
me. She was smart, educated, bad as fuck, but she just wasn’t for me. My
Padre always told me that I would know when the woman was my wife. I
would feel it in my soul, and for the first time in my life, I actually do think
I knew who that would be. I just didn’t know her name yet.
“What are you thinking about, Slaughta?” Lana asked.
“How I’m about to bend you over this table and fuck yo’ silly ass,” I
growled in a low, raspy voice.
She bit down on her bottom lip and eyed me even harder. My dick
jumped and we both knew what time it was. She got up, threw our trash
away, and we headed upstairs. She laid back on the bed after stripping down
to nothing but her bra and panties. My dick instantly bricked up. “Aye
Shawty, take all that shit off. I’m fina’ fuck up some shit. Flip over; face
down ass up,” I instructed and she obliged.
I grabbed the condom out of my wallet before my pants hit the floor and
rolled it on. Shawty's pussy was leaking for the dick, and I couldn’t wait to
dive in. I grabbed her tiny waist and rammed inside her pussy. I had to stop
for a minute because I wasn’t in the game to give off a premature nut. Lana
must be around her doing some Kegels or some shit because shawty shit felt
different.
“Slaughta… right there, babyyy! Right thereeeeeeeeeee!” she moaned,
causing me to snap out of my thoughts. I wrapped my hand around her neck
and pushed ever so slightly so that her head was in the pillow. I wasn’t into
the noisemaking when I was knee-deep in some pussy that wasn’t mine. I
continued beating her pussy up. That shit was gushing like a motherfucka.
Her soft, round ass rippled against my pelvis, and I had to catch myself
from nutting. She matched my rhythm thrust for thrust. That’s one of those
traits I liked about Lana, too. She was going to take this no matter how hard
I gave it to her.
I grabbed a handful of her long weave and continued murdering her
mound. She was on the brink of cumming, so I pulled out and slammed into
her over and over again until I heard her gasp. I didn’t care one way or the
other, but I knew what that meant. She was having an orgasm, and I was
about to take her over the edge. I kept thrusting into her. I wasn’t letting up
until I got that second nut up out of her. I stopped moving after I realized
her orgasm was over and let her throw that ass back in a circle for a nigga.
That shit felt so good. I was about to nut right then, but I couldn’t let her get
a nigga like that. I grabbed her waist again and held her still. Then I leaned
my head back and went to work on her.
All I could envision was the girl in the mall. That ass, those lips, her
eyes. Her eyes were so damn beautiful. If only I knew her name. Before I
knew it Lana was having another orgasm, and I was right behind her. Four
more pumps and I was shooting my seeds out into the condom, thinking
about – her.
I instantly pulled out of her and let her hit the bed. I walked into the
bathroom to get a towel to clean me and her off with.
I know she ain’t my girl, but I’m not a selfish nigga. My moms raised
me to care for women. I just create my own lane just because I could…
most of the time. I flushed the condom as soon as I walked into the
bathroom. She wasn’t about to get a nigga caught up when I think I’ve
found my wife. Bullshit! I put my clothes on and got on down without
saying a word.
She knew what the drill was. Lana and I aren’t that, so she wasn’t about
to nag me about leaving.
As soon as I stepped out the threshold of Lana’s house, my phone rang.
“What’s good, brother? I was just about to call you when I got home,” I
said after answering my little brother Dereck.
“Nothing much, Dom. I was calling to see if you were coming out with
us tonight. You know we're going to Club Blend tonight,” Dereck
questioned.
I was ready to see what the hype was about.
“This club better be about something, Dereck. You know clubs have
never been my scene, but I’m going for y’all motherfuckas,” I stated matter
factly.
“I know, bruh. You’re going to have fun tonight, trust me. It’s going to
be hella bitches there, so don’t even worry. You just gotta take some ass
home with you and you’ll be straight.”
My brother was a certified hoe. Well, shit, we all were, but he was THE
HOE HOE of the family. That nigga there would just about fuck anything
walking. Hell, if it was crawling, he might try some shit too.
It was crazy how niggas just stuck their dick anywhere. Unlike him, I
was selective about my women. Regardless of how many I was sleeping
with, I had standards.
“Aight, bruh. I’ll hit you back after I’m ready and meet y’all at the spot.
Drop me a pin,” I said before sliding into my peanut butter leather seat. I
was riding foreign today in my 2024 Maserati MC20. It was an exclusive
build. The color of my car was caramel and there wasn't another one like it
in this world. I paid top dollar for this one.
I raced home as my mind raced thinking back to shawty from the mall.
Damn, mane. How am I going to figure out who she is?

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 3
GIVONNIA “LANA” ROSSI
REVENGE.

DOMONICK… He has always been the kind of man I dreamt of being

with. It has gotten to the point where I feel like I am losing my mind every
time he walks out the door. Domonick and I have been dealing with each
other for about three or four years now… on and off, of course. I have been
smitten with him since before our first encounter. I never expressed to him
how much I already knew about him. I made it seem like I met him at the
bar and was willing and ready to make his every desire come true, but there
was much more to my plan.
See, Dominick started as just a mark that my dad wanted me to get close
to, but it turns out that I liked Dominick a lot and wanted more of him. The
man that I was about to prey on was more than that. His intelligence and
hood dominance caught me, and I got twisted up and what could be
between us.
It is a must that I introduce myself to you guys. I am Lana Rossi, the
daughter of Westley Rossi, formerly known as the treasurer of the
Association. My dad was overthrown when the Rivera cartel took it upon
themselves to sever ties with us when their boss, better known as the
matriarch of the Rivera family, was gunned down outside of a restaurant
one day. Even though it wasn’t my father, they got rid of him too because
they couldn’t trust anyone. My father has had it out for them ever since.
Domonick and I met at Club Haitian. I went there dressed to impress
and ready to take the Domonick by storm and take down the Rivera cartel
for my father. Even though our empire was still standing, revenge was at an
all-time high for us. Cutting us out made the family lose money and that
was never a good thing.
 Club Haitian was packed out tonight, I spotted Domonick with his
brothers in the VIP section that was mainly used for high-rolling celebrities
here. I decided to stop at the bar and grab a drink. I needed something
strong to keep my calm. Domonick seemed like he was having a good time,
so I decided it was time to strike.
After downing my third vodka and cranberry, I made my way to his
section. As I climbed the stairs, two dancers were making their way down. I
overheard one telling the other Domonick was going home with her tonight.
That statement was followed by a smack of her lips and loud giggling over
the music.
I bobbed my head up and down as I made my entrance into the section.
No one in the Rivera family has ever seen me because my mother and father
were never together. I was told that my mom died during childbirth,
prompting me to be motherless at a very young age.
I caught Dom eyeing me as I walked up. He eyed me for a while before
motioning to move toward him in the section.
“What are you looking for? You came up here looking good. What’s
up?” he yelled over the music. I could tell he was drunk by the slurring of
his words.
“Let’s get outta here, handsome,” I cooed in his ear while rubbing up
and down his right thigh. I could feel his body tense up a bit and I offered
him another drink from the table in the center of the VIP section. It was
hard not to stare at him as he downed the drink I had just made him.
That was mistake number one. Never drink anything that you didn’t see
poured. I slipped a little something in his drink to help him loosen up more.
I want to get him alone. I was starting to get fuzzy myself since I was on my
fifth drink.
After we drank and vibed with his brothers for about another hour, he
grabbed my hand and led me to a private office upstairs. I glanced around
when we stepped through the door and noticed that it was a pleasant little
setup.
“What’s your name, shawty?” he asked while watching me from the
couch in the corner.
“Lana, baby, and I know who you are. You’re so fucking handsome,” I
cooed while walking toward him.
That night, he fucked me so good that I thought I started seeing stars.
Hence the reason, we have been on and off for four years now.
 My father led me to my dream man. Yet, I knew he would never take us
seriously. I saw him with other women and I’ve been ignored by him. I let
him take complete control of this situation and I’m not quite sure how I can
get it back.
I just watched him walk away from me and out the door to go God only
knows where. He has started using me for a quick nut. He doesn’t even
offer to spend time with me anymore. I even thought about asking him on a
date, but I didn’t want to come off as desperate or needy. So, I just ignored
my feelings and decided that life would bring us together if it was meant to
be. I had a strong faith and knew that God would have his way with this
situation. I pray that I am ready for the outcome because my heart couldn’t
take much more.
My phone began to ring, snapping me out of my thoughts. I picked it up
off the nightstand, realizing that I hadn’t called my dad back about what I
had discovered in the Rivera cartel. He started hounding me for information
since he felt like it was time to make his move on them. I never agreed with
my father’s actions, but my family would always come first.
“Yes, Father?” I said after answering on the third ring.
“How are you, my beautiful baby girl? How was your night? Did you
see our mark last night?” he quizzed.
“Yes, I saw him this morning, but he didn’t talk much about the
business. I think I am going to need a little more time to get more out of
him,” I replied.
“Baby girl, it’s been what four years? I will give you one more month
and that’s it. I need to get him and fast. My time is almost out,” he said and
hung up.
The one thing I despise the most is he was so rude and demanding. If
only I could figure out how to get Dom to stay in my life forever – no
matter what.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 4
BRITNEE “BRITT” FARNEMN
TOXICITY.

WE PULLED off from the mall like we were in a rush.

“Slow this damn car down, Daimon. I ain’t dying with you damn ass
today.”
I had just left my best friend after a day out of shopping, and I thought I
wanted to chill with this lame ass nigga, but truthfully he was just a
placeholder.
Amari and I have been friends since grade school, but we grew closer in
her sophomore year of high school. She’s always struggled with knowing
and valuing herself. I honestly did not understand how when she was born
into money and she was beautiful.
My life has not always been peaches and cream, but I can say that my
mom, even as a single mother, raised me right and gave me everything my
heart desired. My dad was killed in a hit-and-run accident on my tenth
birthday. I was always told that he was on his way to my party when a truck
plowed over my dad’s car and never thought to check on the passengers
inside. That day changed my whole life. I felt there was more to the story,
but I never pressed the issue with my mom.
My phone began to ring, snapping me out of my thoughts. It was
Channing. I know what y’all hoes thinking and you’re right. That nigga and
I have been sleeping together for years and my best friend has no clue. I
honestly do not think she would care, but I must say, it has become a sticky
situation.
Channing was the man any woman would want to be connected to, but I
just couldn’t be with him. He did not have an ounce of respect for me or us,
unless he was in my presence, alone from the world. I’ve watched
Channing bring multiple bitches to events that he knew I would be at with
his sister and flaunt them in my face. Ole bitch ass nigga. He wasn’t even
worth the headache anymore.
I answered the phone with so much attitude. “Channing, what in the hell
do you want? The only time you're calling me is if you want something?” I
said. He knew not to play with me.
“Britt, lose the fucking attitude. Where are you at? I miss you,” he said.
I lowly chuckled, “That’s none of your concern, but if you must know,
I’m about to get my back blown out and hit up Club Blend with sis.
Anything else?” I quizzed.
“Mane, what the fuck, Britt? Yo’ back blown out? You are ditzy, mane.
You know I’ll kill any nigga you with, shawty! Stop playing with me!”
Chan barked into the phone.
“Nigga, didn't you just bring whatever that duck face, mush mouth ass
bitch was to your family dinner Sunday and now you’re questioning me?
Get off my line, hoe! Fuck ya’. You’ve played on my top for the last time,
Channing. Now, bye. I got some shit to do, and let’s make it clear, it does
not involve you, boo,” I said through a devilish smile.
I knew I was getting under his skin, but I didn’t care. This nigga had
lost his mind if he thought he was ‘fina flaunt another bitch in my face. That
was the final time for me.
“Britt, I swear if I have to come out and find you! That nigga is going to
lose his life fucking with you. You think this a ga-” I cut him off.
“That’s where you’re wrong, sweetheart. You had me fucked up at the
door,” I blazed and hung up.
Before I could place my phone back down, it rang again. I thought it
was Channing, but it was Amari. I picked up, and she was panicking
because she was concerned about her outfit tonight. Baby sis is still a
virgin, and she’s been thinking about going all the way with someone. After
telling her that I would be through to pick her up at ten and do a quick outfit
check, we hung up. Channing had sent a text message as soon as we hung
up.
FUCK BOY: Where you at, yo? I ain’t with these bullshit ass
games you playing, mane. I got your location.
FUCK BOY: I’m pulling up to your house. You better be there.
FUCK BOY: Where yo’ hoe ass, mane? His blood is gone to be
on your hands, Britt.
 FUCK BOY: Don’t worry. Let me pull up and you fucking
another nigga. I’ma kill you and his bitch ass. Then I'll pay for
your funeral and be the loudest one in the crowd, crying
crocodile tears. STOP PLAYING WITH ME!
ME: Stop texting me with this nonsense and go fucking that
mush mouth ass bitch you had up in your parent's face. I’m
‘fina fuck. Bye.
FUCK BOY: Aight, bet.
FUCK BOY: Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
** ME: love reaction to last two messages*

Channing doesn't know what’s about to hit that ass. He wanted to be

petty, and so was I.
Damion had called before we left the mall and wanted to take me out to
eat before tonight, so we headed to Texas Roadhouse on the east side. I like
Damion, but he wasn’t Channing. He was a good distraction though. We
finally pulled up to Texas Roadhouse after a car full of conversations that
weren’t with him. I apologized for my conversations.
“It’s cool, pretty lady. How have you been, beautiful?” Daimon asked
after we were seated at the table. The waiter walked over and took our drink
and appetizer order swiftly.
“I’ve been good, bae. I missed you yesterday. What were you up to?” I
quizzed.
“Nothing, I was chillin’ on the block with my boys. You missed a nigga
if you asking me questions like that. Let me find out you like me.” Daimon
smiled.
“And if I do like you? What are you gonna do about it?" I asked.
Before I could say another word, Damion was beside me with his hand
between my legs. I didn’t know my teddy bear could move so fast.
Daimon stood a solid 6'8'' with the skin hue of a honeysuckle. God sure
did show out with his ass, baby. He was thick and muscular. At first glance,
you would think he’s fat, but let me go ahead and bust your bubble. He is
NOT! What’s packing underneath his clothes will make a bitch drool over
him. YES LORD!
Lord, I couldn’t even say a word; Damion was on me like white on rice.
As he caressed my slippery folds, my head fell back in ecstasy. “Na, baby
girl. You ‘fina watch me while you get this nut,” D said. I wanted to open
my eyes, but they weren’t budging. As his fingers began to slide into my
soaked center, I opened my eyes to find Channing looking dead in my damn
face. He was standing over by the front entrance.
I did not believe his ass was going to show up for real. This crazy ass
motherfucka glared dead in my eyes as Daimon made me cum for the
second time while I sat in the booth beside him. I saw Channing staring like
he was about to kill my ass. I didn’t care though because this nigga
repeatedly disrespected me in the utmost fashion, and I’ve had enough.
As Damion slid his fingers in and out of me, I watched Channing bite
his bottom lip with so much anger that I swear he was about to draw blood.
He walked over to us swiftly and reached out for Damion’s shirt. Before I
could say anything, he yanked Damion from the booth and brought him
face to face with him.
“Nigga, you indeed out here disrespecting her like that. Nigga, you got
my woman pussy out at this motherfucking restaurant,” Channing seethed.
“Your girl?” Damion and I said in unison.
“Shut yo’ hoe ass up, Britt. Got this nigga in between yo’ legs like I
didn’t dig yo’ guts out yesterday morning,” he lied with ease. “Get yo’
stupid ass up and beat me to the motherfucking car, and if you don’t– I
know something, Britnee!” his voice boomed through the restaurant.
I couldn’t believe he just embarrassed me like that. I walked clean out
the restaurant of and ordered an Uber. Channing had me all the way fucked
up. The Uber said it was five minutes away, so I walked a block over to
wait. Channing could go straight to hell with gasoline draws on, and I
wouldn’t give two flying fucks at this point. I was having a lovely time and
then his cock-blocking, blockhead ass just had to come throwing his weight
around. Fucking asshole.
As I was walking, Channing pulled up in this black on black 2024
Dodge Challenger. His sexy ass just does too much, I thought.
“Britnee, I swear you better get yo’ hot pocket coochie having ass in this
car. Out here embarrassing yourself and hell, me too,” Channing said.
I just stopped and glared at him like he had grown two heads because I
still couldn't believe him. This nigga was going be the absolute death of me.
Just to keep down confusion, I hopped in the car while canceling my Uber,
and he peeled off. A small crowd of spectators started to gather.
“So, you out here doing shit like this, Brittnee? Like, what kind of time
are you on?” he quizzed. I just admired his fine ass for a minute because no
matter how much I denied it. I love him with my whole heart. He just
couldn’t get this shit right and I’m tired of it.
“What do you want me to tell you, Channing? I was doing what you
saw, and I enjoyed it. Is that what you want to hear? Huh? Well, there you
go!” I yelled at his face while rolling my eyes with tears threatening to fall.
I wasn’t about to let him see me cry. Hell no! He’s seen too many of my
tears to count.
“Britt, you better than letting a nigga treat you like that, baby. Then you
were in public. You better be happy I didn’t shoot his ass on sight. How you
go and let that nigga touch what’s mine, huh?” he said calmly. Almost too
calm. He was livid and I knew it, but I was tired of being hurt by him and
his ways. This shit had become a never-ending cycle of toxicity that I
wasn’t with.
“I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of these games we're playing
with each other. I love you, Channing, but I’m not about to keep being one
of your many jump-offs. I deserve more than this,” I said just above a
whisper.
Channing pulled into my driveway while looking into my eyes, “Britt, I
can’t keep doing this with you, either. I almost blew a nigga’s head off in a
restaurant full of witnesses, mane.
What more do you want me to prove to you? We locked in for life, ma.
What do you want me to do?” he said looking at me amorously while biting
his bottom lip. I could see his open-face grill on his bottom set of teeth. So
damn sexy.
He knew what he was doing. I could never resist his ass and he knew it.
The only difference is this time, I had made up my mind that letting go was
needed for me to heal and move on.
“Channing, I love you, but this is it. Let’s go in this house so you can
fuck my brains out, but after this, please lose my number. I have no desire
to be your toy anymore. I’m ready for a man that loves me through it all and
most importantly, doesn’t have me out here in these streets looking crazy.
Since day one, you’ve always given these bitches all the love and attention
that was only supposed to be for me. I knew you were for me the moment I
lost my virginity to you all those years ago, but I’m not enough for you, and
I’m okay with that now.
You gazed dead in my eyes Sunday at your parent’s house and walked
away from me, knowing the pain you were inflicting on my heart having
that thot ass hoe there, but what did you do? Huh, Channing? You took that
hoe up to your childhood bedroom, remember? The same one that you had
me in when I was 17 years old and still wet behind the ears, remember?
Remember in that same room, you told me that you’d always have my back
and you’d never intentionally hurt me. Yeah, that room... the saddest part
about it is, you fucked her there too and said the same words that you told
me all those years ago.” He glared at me dumbfounded as I spoke my piece.
This is why this could never work.
I climbed out of his car, walked up to the house, and he slowly followed
me with his head held down.
“Ohhhhhhh, and let’s not forget that you messed my big nut up back
there at the restaurant. So yeah, you fina get this all the way together, and
don’t forget to lose my number afterward,” I sassed over my shoulder.
I pushed the key into the doorknob and twisted it open.
He began undressing me at the bottom of the stairs and carried me
bridal style up the stairs and into the shower. He sat me on the counter and
watched me intensively while he undressed himself and started the water. I
could tell by his eyes that he was regretting everything he’d done to me, but
I didn’t feel sorry for him because he wasn’t worth my tears anymore.
My large black tile shower with gold trim and a glass window
surrounding it began to fog up as he walked over to me and stared into my
eyes. He was searching for reassurance that after this time, I would be back,
but when he didn’t find any, he attacked my neck viciously. Channing
sucked and bit my neck like it was his last meal, leaving a trail of passion
marks on his way down. He never did any of this with me because he said it
wasn’t for his kind. I pushed him back and turned to the mirror to see the
damage.
“What are you looking for, Brittnee, huh? Hell yeah, it's a hickey there,
and you’ll have a lot more before we leave this room tonight. You said you
were done, right? Cool. I ain’t gonna fight you on it. I know I’ve been dead
ass wrong for how I have treated you and made you feel over the years, but
I swear on my soul, I love you, woman. I’m about to show you just how
much. You can walk away from me, but just remember my heart will
always be in your hand until you’re ready to come home,” Channing said in
a low, raspy voice before kissing my lips forcefully while leading us to the
shower. He pushed my back against the shower wall swiftly and lifted me
so his thick manhood was right at my center.
 “Ssshhhhhhhhhhhh!” was all I could get out as he entered me inch by
inch. I missed this man, but this was it for me.
I had to let him go.
He didn’t care about my well-being or my heart. He wanted to control
me and get his dick wet, and I was done doing both with him.
As he slid me up and down his thick ten-inch manhood, he growled in
my ear. “I’m gonna miss you, girl. Just remember where home is, baby.”
"Are you coming back, baby? I know you need time, just like I do to
wrap up a few loose ends. I’m gonna give you two months tops, so go
ahead and live that shit up, but when I come back for you, you will be mine
and mine only. I’m. Gone. Come. Back. For. My. Wife. And. Don’t. You.
Forget. That. Shit,” he said between each deep stroke he delivered.
I didn't even respond. Little did he know, I was only making my escape
now because I was two months pregnant with his baby, and I knew he
wouldn’t be happy with that. He always told me that I was his wife, but I
knew that would never be because I knew he didn’t want kids. So us
working was definitely out of the question now.

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 CHAPTER 5
CHANNING “CHAN” MOODY
LOSING US.

AS I DUG into her guts while looking deeply into her eyes, I knew she
was done with my triflin’ ass forreal.
I love this woman, mane, and I was about to let her go. I just couldn’t
come to terms with it. I really didn't want this to happen. I wanted her in the
worst way. I remember that night eight years ago when she was walking
down the hall in her night clothes, heading back to my sister's room around
midnight.
I watched her ass go to the bathroom around midnight like she did every
time she stayed here. This time, I couldn’t let her pass me. The way that ass
sat up in those shorts and that tank top hugging her c-cup perky breasts– I
had to have a taste. I walked out and blocked her path. I wrapped my hand
around her waist and pulled her into my room. This girl was stunning, and
that was truly an understatement for her beauty. She squirmed out of grasp
and ogled at me with worry and confusion on her face. She was so sweet
and innocent. I had to know, so I asked her straight up. “Are you a virgin,
shawty?”
She nodded her head slowly up and down, and I knew that she was
always going to be mine. It was like I was a magnetic to her scent. I meant
every word of that statement too. I knew then that I couldn’t just fuck her
and duck her. I kissed her lips and told her to put her number in my phone.
Then I kissed her again to feel her soft lips against mine and this time she
reciprocated the kiss.
Her moans and screams pulled me out of my thoughts as I watched her
reach the peak of ecstasy then her body went limp. I love her. Brittnee’s
body fed my soul and kept me alive. It wasn’t a day that had gone by that I
didn’t see her or hear her voice until lately. Whether it was from a distance
or up close and personal, I saw her. Just to think she let another nigga stick
his finger in my shit.
Granted, I couldn’t say shit to her because I have been fucking bitches
left and right, but for me to witness it had a nigga vested. I was ready to lay
that whole restaurant out behind this damn woman, and she didn’t even
realize. I watched her soul leave her body after climaxing for the fourth
time tonight, but I wasn’t ready to let her go yet. Truthfully, I was scared. I
was scared she was going to walk away and never look back, and that
would crush a nigga. I was just about to start putting in more work to keep
her around. I knew now that those actions might go unnoticed.
After I let off my load of children inside her womb, I lowered her to the
shower floor onto her feet. I turned her around, grabbed both of her hands
into mine, and placed them on the shower wall while the water cascaded
down our bodies. I entered her from behind, and I had to bite her neck to
keep from moaning out like a little bitch. This woman had the best fucking
pussy between her legs that I have ever had! HANDS DOWN!
She just didn’t know she had me.
She had my heart, mind, body, and soul.
I’ll admit I was young and dumb. I thought with the wrong head most of
the time, but with me being 28 years old and knocking on 30’s door, it was
time I settled down and got my shit right. I always knew it was going to be
with Brittnee. I didn't know how we were going to work this shit out, but it
had to.
My family was so deep in the mafia business that I didn’t want to bring
her into that lifestyle and risk losing her completely, but I had to do
something. I can’t lose her. As she neared her peak again, I thrust in her
over and over again. Gripping the back of her neck and drilling at her
slippery slit, I missed her. Her body began to convulse as she exploded on
my membrane. I watched as her body slid up and down while I made love
to her through her orgasm. I missed her pussy. Britt had been holding it
hostage for a couple of weeks now and I had been feening like a fat boy
missing cake.
After erupting in her for the second time, I turned her around and
grabbed the washcloth. I lathered the washcloth with some Dove body wash
and gently washed Britt’s body from head to toe. I washed my body off
after washing her twice and turned the water off. I grabbed her hand and led
her to our towels on the bathroom counter and dried her off. I wrapped my
towel around my waist and guided us both to her bed.
We both climbed in, and she positioned herself to where she was lying
on my chest. The tension in the room was thick and I knew her heart was
heavy. I lightly kissed her forehead.
That’s when I realized she was crying. I should have been able to feel
the warm tears on my chest, but I guess the warmth from the shower
shielded that.
“Britt, why are you crying?” I asked softly, but she didn’t respond. I
repeated myself a little louder. She finally wiped her face and stared at me
with saddened eyes. What she said next hit me like a ton of bricks.
“Chan, I’m pregnant, and before you even ask, it’s yours. I haven’t been
with anyone else but you. What you saw tonight was the first time in a long
time that I went on a real date. I wanted to tell you last month when I found
out, but between you and that bitch you had around, I never got the chance
to inform you. I know you don’t want kids and that's cool.
I’ll get rid of it, because truthfully, we're not ready to be parents, and
you made it crystal clear that you can’t or won’t be faithful. I’ve scheduled
an appointment for the abortion next week. All I ask is that you be there
with me. I don’t want any beef and I don’t want any problems. We will go
our separate ways after that. I’ll be okay, I promise,” she softly spoke as my
grip tightened around her still body.
My mind was blown after she said all that. I knew a long time ago that I
wanted to be with her, and now she is sitting in my face talking about an
abortion for my baby. She should know me better than that. I did always tell
her I didn’t want any kids but with and for her… I'd do anything. Maybe
this was a sign from God that I needed to get my life together sooner rather
than later.
I just surveyed her face for a while before responding because I didn’t
want to be inconsiderate of her feelings, but I’d be damned if she got rid of
my baby. Maybe this is God’s way of keeping us together. I tilted her head
back and gazed into her eyes, and all I saw was the hurt I’d caused over the
years. There was no way I could tell her that she had to have my baby, so I
said the next best thing.
“I’m with whatever you want to do. I want you to have my baby, but
I’m not going to force your hand in this. I know what I have done to you
over the years, and I don’t deserve you or our baby, but I promise if you
give me the chance to show you that I’m ready to change and take care of
you, not only financially but emotionally too, Britt, I got y'all.” I
intertwined our hands as I spoke what was on my heart.
“I know you don’t believe my words, but I’m ready to put all this shit to
the side. Don’t respond yet, baby… just think about it,” I said while getting
up. I had to get the fuck up out of here. This was about to get real and fast. I
need to take a minute to breathe and think this shit through. I found my
clothes and put them on before glaring at Britt once more.
I have to get this right this time around.
As I exited the room, I became more worried about our future together.

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 CHAPTER 6
AMARI “MARI”
HIM.

PULLING up to the house was a relief. I was ready to get my night

started. I went straight into my house and up the stairs. I had just called
Britt to see if she was ready, but I didn’t get an answer. Hopefully, she was
just in the shower. I got up the stairs and headed straight for the shower. I
needed to give my body a little extra TLC because I’ve been slacking a
little, but I want my toes curled up to the ceiling by the time I get home for
the night. I know that people are probably thinking about how weird it is
that I want to lose my virginity. It was so hard to have freedom in my life
that it just seemed like I was suffocating. I’m so happy I get to enjoy my
night.
I climbed in the shower and washed my body down with my dove body
wash three times. After getting out of the shower, I went to the sink to
handle my hygiene and wash my face well. My skin was always so smooth
and clear, and I wanted to keep it that way.
I finally walked out of the bathroom and grabbed my phone. This time I
called Britt and she finally answered. She spoke so quietly, almost like she
was whispering. After asking her if she was okay; she assured me that she
was just waking up and about to get ready and she would see me in an hour.
I got off the phone and started to get dressed. My size eighteen ripped bell-
bottom jeans hugged my voluptuous hips as I jumped up and down a little
to get them on. Who said a thick girl couldn’t look good too? After finding
my cream, off-the-shoulder crop top sweater that I picked up today at the
mall with Britt, I applied a light beat to my face to accent my high
cheekbone. I took down my thirty-inch straight Brazilian bundles and
brushed them out a little before going to get my Chanel black pumps out of
the closet. After standing in the mirror, looking at myself, and snapping a
few pictures for the gram, I headed downstairs to see if Mom and Padre
were up.
Luckily, they were nowhere to be found. I grabbed a bottle of water
from the fridge and made my way to the second living room in the house to
wait. I glanced down at my phone and realized I had a text from Britt.
BESTIE: Pulling up in 5. Be ready, hoe!
ME: I’m ready. Grabbing my purse now. Headed outside
BESTIE: BET. ITS UP TONIGHTTTTTTTT! 😜

I grabbed my new cream Chanel bag that matched my outfit and headed
for the door. I locked up and sashayed my way to Britt’s all-black Range
Rover in the driveway. It was fairly new, but she never told me who got it
for her, because one thing I did know is that she would not spend her money
on a vehicle. She drove her 2001 Honda Accord until the wheels almost fell
off.
“Hey, Sister, hey!” I screeched as I climbed in the front seat. “We are
ready for this turn-up! Because yes, bitchhhhh, TURN UP!”
“This is going to be so much fun, sis. I’m ready,” she said as we pulled
off down the street. We didn’t have to talk much because the music did it
all. Britt had “Tomorrow 2” by Gloria playing as we danced in our seats to
the beat.

Pop-poppin' shit, you would think I went to school for chiropractin’

Lookin' good as hell today, just sent my nigga five attachments (look at this)

Britt pulled up to the light, reached into the back seat, and pulled out a
gallon-size Crown Royal bottle. I already knew what time it was, so I
grabbed the bottle by the neck and took it to the head. Yes, mind your
business because I know I’m not supposed to be drinking with my
medicine, but what’s wrong with a little fun every now and then? We finally
pulled up to the club and found a park close by the door. THANK GOD!
Britt and I checked ourselves in the mirror before stepping out of the truck.
I had to make sure that my pants covered my little fupa at the bottom and
then I was ready to strut. The line was wrapped around the building as we
headed straight for the door.
 We walked up to the bouncer, who we knew as Big Slim, and he
showed us that panty-dropping, beautiful, and white Colgate smile.
“What’s up, ladies? Mari, your brother already told me to let you guys
though. He has a VIP section for you two. Follow me.”
I grabbed Britt’s hand and pulled her along as I followed behind Big
Slim. As we walked across the dancefloor and up a flight upstairs, I
couldn’t help but admire the atmosphere. My brother outdid himself with
this investment. He had chandeliers hanging around everywhere, giving it
the upscale club feel. Only ballers were in attendance tonight. My brother
had the colors of gold, red, and black decking the whole club. It gave Club
Blend a grown and sexy vibe. I loved it. I finally took my focus off the
décor and started swaying my hips as we headed to our section. “Work” by
Rihanna was blaring through the club speakers.
We finally made it to our section and the bottle girl, named Tiff, came
up to get our drink orders. We both ordered two bottles a piece and some
chasers.
“Britt, let’s go to the dance floor,” I yelled in her ear over the music.
Britt and I both did a waterfall of Crown before we headed back
downstairs. For some reason, I felt like there were a pair of eyes on me. I
scanned the room how I was taught by my Padre, but I didn’t see anyone so
I decided to keep going so I could have enjoy my night. The beat dropped to
“Thot Shit” by Megan thee Stallion, and we both threw our hands up and
dropped it low and started twerking.

Hands on my knees, shakin' ass, on my

Hands on my knees, shakin' ass, on my thot shit (thot shit)

I finally stood up and bent over, rolling my ankles to make my ass clap
viciously. It was the beat to this song for me every time I heard this song. I
still felt like it was a pair of eyes on me, but if they wanted to watch me do
my thing from a distance, that was on them. After we danced to a couple of
more songs, we decided to head back up to our VIP section. As we got
closer to the section, I realized it was someone sitting there like they own
the place.
“Ummmm, excuse me, but this isn’t your section! I need you to exit the
same way you came in, fam,” I yelled a little louder than anticipated, but
that liquor was coursing through my veins so big fella could get it.
 He lifted his head from his phone that he was pecking away at.
“You talking to me?” He glanced around like I knew she wasn't talking
to me. He got up slowly and walked over to me. I’m not sure if it was the
liquor or what, but this nigga here was undeniably fine. His eyes were to die
for. I then realized I knew this asshole. He was the one I saw in the mall
earlier today. Ugh! I continued eyeing him as he walked up to me. He
approached me and was within a few millimeters of my face. I could smell
the liquor mixed with minty freshness on his breath. We were in a stare-off
and I wasn’t backing down. He leaned into me, and our lips were within a
second away from crashing into each other.
“Baby, why don’t you calm your feisty ass down and come twerk on
this dick the same way you were out there on that dance floor? I’ve been
watching you since you got in here. I know you ain’t got a real nigga in
your life because you out here in the club shaking your ass like that. Got
every nigga in this club drooling. I don’t like people looking at what’s mine,
beautiful. I’m a possessive nigga. I want all your attention,” he stated as I
cocked my head to the side because he was about to get an ear full. I
couldn’t tell what emotion I wanted to give him right now.
I held my hand up and pushed him slightly in the chest to back him up,
“I ain’t one of them flunkies that you like riding your dick. I would never in
my life allow you to get to know me. You have no respect for women at all.
I’m not some cheap two-dollar whore who is ran through. I’m not sure what
you thought this was,” I used my index finger to motion between the two of
us, “but what you can do is get to stepping, sir,” I stated matter-of-factly.
He was making my yoni purr, and I needed my girl to chill out because
now was not the time or place. The feeling wasn't foreign to me, but I must
say this was the first time that my yoni had responded so much to a man.
Britt just watched the interaction between this dude and me. She was
smiling on the slick and sipping the drink she’d just poured from the Crown
Royal bottle.
“What’s your name, Bellissima (beautiful)?” he said in a softer tone. I
almost melted. He was so fine that I didn't know what to do.
“Golden,” I stated. “Now, can you leave?”
“No, Bellissima. I wanted you to come twerk on this dick. The same
way you were twerking on that dance floor,” he said as he eyed me
seductively while biting his bottom lip. He took a seat, and I wasn’t about to
keep standing because my feet were killing me. I went and sat on the
opposite side of the section because I don’t know who he thinks he is. He
got up, laughing and moved right beside me.
For some odd reason, he wasn't bothering me. It was almost like we'd
known each other for years because I was so at ease around him. It almost
seemed like my soul was yearning for him, but I didn't understand how. He
legit aroused me with his words and actions, and the way he spoke to me
sent fiery pulsation down below. What am I going to do about all these
feelings? I thought to myself.

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 CHAPTER 7
CHANNING “CHAN”
SIBLING LOVE.

I STOOD in front of the double glass mirrored windows in my office,

watching Club Blend below me. I couldn’t have been prouder of what I had
accomplished in right under seven months. When I bought this place, I
never expected it to turn out this good, but I fucked with the vision the
interior designer gave me.
I watched everyone dancing and having a good time. I knew that this
night was going to bring us a huge revenue. I could smell the cash in the air.
I saw Mari and Britt walking in about an hour ago, so I set them up with a
VIP section and let them run up a tab. I knew my little sister needed this
time since we kept her under lock and key since her episode.
When I saw both Mari and Britt make their way to the dance floor and
started to dance, I watched Britt in a daze as she bounced her ass in a circle.
I just couldn't believe what she told me earlier. She told me many times that
she was going to leave me alone, but this time, it felt different and not in a
good way. I wanted nothing more than to bend her over my office desk and
tap her g-spot with my dick. My dick instantly bricked up just thinking
about it. I then thought about the second bomb she dropped on me, and it
deflated fast.
I watched on as my sister and her best friend became the center of
attention on the dance floor. Both of them were beautiful and nobody could
deny them that. My phone suddenly rang, knocking me out of Britt’s spell.
It was my Padre calling.
“Run yo’ mouth,” I spoke into the phone.
“Meet me at the house after you shut down tonight. I won't be able to
come to the club tonight because some things came up,” he said before
disconnecting the call.
Don’t get me wrong, I love my Padre, but his attitude was horrible, and
he just didn’t know how to deal with people. I hope this wasn’t going to be
any bs because this was not what I wanted to deal with after a long night.
I stepped back to the window and realized that the show was over and
watched them go back to their section. It was a nigga up there that I had
never seen, so my instincts quickly kicked in as I grabbed my .9mm and
headed straight to the section. By the time I got over there, ole boy had
moved over next to my sister. I pointed the gun at his forehead because he
was way too close for my liking.
“Nigga, what you doing in their section?” I said through clenched teeth.
He eyed me with a straight face and never said anything. I watched as
his eyes turned coal-black right before me. He quickly stood up and caught
sight of my eyes, “Remember if you pull out a gun, you better use it when
I’m present. I’m over here minding my business with my girl and you
interrupting.” My first question to myself was who was his girl because my
sister wasn’t dating, and I knew good and bad well Britt wasn’t.
“Who's your girl, potna?” I yelled.
“Now that’s where I draw the line. You better be glad I ain't strapped
because I’d push your wig back. Get the…” he seethed.
This nigga thought he was bold and bad, but I knew that tonight was not
the time and place for drama. I eased my gun down and peered at my sister.
I tilted my head toward the dude, “You know this dude, Mari?” She quickly
answered with a head nod and told me that they met earlier that day in the
mall.
I almost got the feeling that she didn't want anything to happen to him
because of how shy she was acting. I’ve never seen Mari like that. I knew
she liked him now for sure because she wasn’t letting slick shit roll off her
tongue.
I glanced over at Britt as she nursed her cup and watched everything
unfold. She really wasn’t supposed to be drinking, but what could I do
about it? I just licked my lips and started walking toward her. She held her
cup up and fanned me down the stairs. I knew she wasn’t fucking with me
right now but damn. I didn’t think it was like that. I just saw her earlier but
like I said I knew it was different this time.
I missed her already, but I politely did what she asked because I didn’t
want her to be upset with me any more than she already was. It was about
time for my night to conclude anyway, but I had one more thing I wanted to
do.
As I made it back to the office, I shot Big Slim and sent a text to send
the bottle girl, Janiya, upstairs to my office. I need a quick nut before I go,
and I knew her super head would give me just that. She’ll have to do it in
my office because I'm going home alone. I knew I shouldn’t have been
doing this. Especially on the same night that Britt had told me she was
pregnant, and I had just dug her guts out, but I needed something to get my
mind right again. After this, I was through for a while.
Only one girl deserves that part of me.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 8
SLAUGHTA
HER.

AFTER LEAVING LANA’S HOUSE, I headed home to jump fresh

before heading to Club Blend. Blend’s grand opening was tonight, and
everybody who's anybody will be there.
After putting on the outfit I grabbed at the mall, I sprayed my body
down in Dior Sauvage cologne and did a once-over in the mirror. I must say
a young nigga was fly. I walked toward the door and grabbed my coat and
keys to make my exit. I chose to ride a classic tonight. Grabbing up the keys
to my cocaine white Rolls Royce with peanut butter interior. This car was a
gift from my pops on my 25th birthday a couple of years back. Hitting the
locks and climbing into the driver's seat, I hit up my guard to let him know
our departure had arrived since I left out the side door instead of the front
where they were standing.
I backed out of my 3-car garage and headed to Club Blend. The night
sky out here by my house sparkled with stars and a full moon. Full moons
are known for their divine energy and for creating the atmosphere for the
strongest love to be formed between people. I reached out and turned the
volume up on my system. My Love by Rod Wave filled the car. Reaching
into the center console and retrieving my pre-rolled blunt, I lit it and pulled
in deeply, allowing the song and the smoke to feel my lungs and heart up
until it was full. I began bobbing my head and singing along to the lyrics.

You're out of my presence but still on my mind

Make every time feel like the first time
 After the thirty-minute drive, I pulled up to the door to have my whip
valet parked. There was no way that I was leaving my car out here on these
streets. That car was my baby and I’d be damned if someone damaged it. I
walked up to the door and greeted Big Slim. He was a known enforcer
around the Moody Mafia. He waved me in after I reached the door, and I
climbed the stairs to the right of the club two by two until I made it to my
VIP section. I liked this section; it was ducked off in the back with dim
lights. My brothers hadn’t made it yet, which wasn’t surprising. I was
always the one that was punctual.
This whole club was a vibe. It’s so luxurious and comfortable at the
same time. The bottle girls walked around in black dresses that stopped at
the knee. I ordered a bottle of Brown and went to work.

I watched as everyone entered and exited the establishment then I saw her.
She was just as beautiful as she was at the mall. I knew this time she wasn’t
getting away from me. I watched as they pulled the girl that was in the mall
with her by the hand and went to a section that was right across from me on
the other side of the building.
That’s when it happened though. I watched her look around like
someone was watching her. She could feel me, I thought. That’s wild. She
scanned the room with her eyes but came up empty.
Baby girl was throwing all that ass while on the dance floor. Her ass
reminded me of a round, juicy, delectable plum. I could see niggas drooling
over her and imagining her sitting on their dick, riding like she was riding
that beat. I slowly stood up and headed for her section. I never took my eyes
off her as they danced and had a good time. About thirty minutes had
passed since I made my way to her section before they finally headed back
to their VIP section. When her feet were finally planted on the top step, she
noticed me. I had my head buried in my phone at the time.
I couldn’t help the smile that graced my face. She was stunning. I
wonder if she knew the beauty she possessed. I can’t even explain how her
body was a magnet for mine. Every time she was near, I felt like I had to be
closer to her. It sounds like some zesty shit, but I promise it seems like a
magnetic force was pulling us together.
She walked a little bit further into the VIP section.
I eyed her as her hips swayed from side to side. She appeared like a
straight siren looking to purposely lure me to my death. I snapped out of my
thoughts when she told me that this wasn’t my section and I needed to step.
I watched a series of emotions go across her face until it went back to
her resting bitch face or whatever women call it these days.
Baby girl was stacked. She stood about 5’9 with the most voluptuous
curves I'd ever seen. Baby girl was a size 18, if I had to guess, and she wore
it well. I love me a thick chick with an ass to grab. She seemed to be mixed
with something, but I couldn’t put my finger on it.
Her eyes were round, wide, beautiful, and innocent. Her body seemed to
have this white aura around it as I watched her closely. I zoned in on her
lips, wondering how they would feel wrapped around my membrane.
She eventually piped down but decided to sit on the other side of the
section. That was funny as fuck to me. I can tell she’s the dramatic type. I
just laughed, got up and moved right next to her. She was so cute when she
played mad.
I spotted a nigga walking swiftly up the VIP section and heading
straight towards us.
“You know dude, Golden?” I interrogated with emphasis on her name.
She looked at where I was nodding, and her mouth fell agape. It’s about
to be some shit. As he approached, I noted the gun in his hand.
He came up and started with his questions. I didn’t give a fuck what he
wanted. He made me hot with just his actions. I may have been calm and
chill all the time, but once he woke up the monster in me then he would
second guess his reckless choices. Catching me slipping was what he did,
but what he didn’t know was my hands were registered weapons as well.
After he realized that I wasn’t backing down, he turned to Golden,
asking who I was? Shawty must have been scared because she didn’t
verbally speak. He finally took his blockhead ass on when he realized I
wasn’t leaving.
“Aye, Shawty, who is that? That motherfucka was about to get his face
rocked if he kept it up,” I said in a calm voice. I won’t dare raise my voice
because it wasn’t her fault he was acting that way.
“He’s my brother,” she stated. Changing the subject, she asked me for
my name. Damn, I’m so busy worrying about her that I didn’t even mention
my name.
“Oh, it’s Domonick, but most people call me Slaughta,” I stated.
“Slaughta?” she quizzed. “Why do they call you that?” She gazed at me
as she bashfully battered her eyelashes.
 I let out a low chuckle, “You want to know, huh? You giving me that
pretty ass pouty face right now. That’s cute. But no for real though, That’s
something I don’t ever want you to worry about. Slaughta is the least of
your worries, sweetheart. If he ever makes an appearance, you’ll know. So,
make sure you tell your brother he was really saved by God today because
he knew if I killed my wife’s brother, I’d have to apologize for the rest of
our lives together,” I said with a profound expression.
She twisted her face up, “Why do you keep saying that?”
“What?” I quizzed.
“That I’m your wife. You cock blocking like a motherfucka. I got to get
away from you, Domonick. I ain’t gone ever find a man with you near.” She
laughed.
“I’ve already told you what it was. Don’t make Slaughta appear on our
first night together, shawty.”
“Ohhhhhhhhhh shit! This is my song!” she squealed. The DJ had just
dropped the beat to “Spin Bout U” by Drake and 21 Savage. She got up and
started singing while walking toward the balcony looking over the entire
dance floor while swaying her hips.

I got feelings for you

I hope you ain't lovin' the crew

This was the first time I saw her and talked to her without her being
snappy. I liked seeing her like this.
My phone started ringing in my hand. Seeing the picture of Jasmine pop
up, I instantly declined it. I’ll hit her back when I get time. It started ringing
shortly after that. I answered without looking at the caller ID thinking it was
Jasmine about to get cussed smooth out.
“What the fuck do you want?” I snapped.
“Son, is that any way to speak to your Pops? I need to speak with you
on an important business matter,” he spoke calmly.
My Pops and I have had a decent relationship over the years. I respected
him until he gets disrespectful. I don’t hold my tongue either. He may be the
boss, but I’m about to be one, so he’ll have to get in line too.
“Alright,” I said before ending the call. I stood up to leave as Golden
turned around from the balcony.
 “I’m about to leave, shawty,” I said while handing her my phone. “Plug
your number in the…” I quickly grabbed the phone back. “Never mind,
what’s your number? I’m about to call your ass to make sure it’s the right
number too.”
She lightly chuckled, “I think you just don’t want me to know who you
are talking to, but it’s all good. Keep your hoes because when you finally
bag a real one… they won't matter anymore.”
As she released that thought, I knew it was time to go. I watched her
phone light up after it rung on my end three times, so I knew it was the right
number. I quickly hugged shawty and made my exit swiftly down the stairs.
I needed to call my brothers and let them know I had to head out. They
asses probably hadn’t made it yet.
Until next time.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 9
BRITT
NOTHING NEW.

THIS NIGGA really thought he was slick. As Chan walked away after
causing a scene, he headed toward the door to talk to Big Slim and then
headed toward his office. I wondered what that was about, so I sat there and
continued nursing my little drink while Mari talked to that handsome
specimen of a man over there by her.
I glanced down at my phone and saw a text from him.
FUCK BOY: Aren’t you pregnant? Why the fuck are you
drinking with my seed growing in you, mane?
FUCK BOY: Answer me, mane.

I was still watching his office door as he sent text messages back-to-
back. I knew something was up because he hadn’t said all of two words to
me while he was in our section.
I glared up at the door once more and noticed a girl heading up the
stairs. I was going to hold my composure, but he was making it impossible.
Why is she going up there? I thought to myself.
It almost felt like an out-of-body experience as I slowly stood and
headed toward the office. Mari stopped me halfway and asked where I was
going and if I needed her to come with me, but I assured her I was fine, just
stepping away to the bathroom.
As I neared the bathroom, I made a detour to go up the stairs to see what
was happening in Channing’s office. I slowly approached the door, trying
my best not to make a sound. The closer I got to the door, the more I could
hear grunting and moaning. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to know what
was going on. I just shook my head because he should have known better.
 I wanted to fuck all his shit up, but it was time to take the high road and
bow out gracefully.
I approached the door and gave it a quick knock. I heard moving around
before the door opened and Channing was looking at me. I knew he wasn’t
expecting to see me standing here. I took in his appearance from head to
toe. His clothes were disheveled.
“You don’t have to tell me what’s going on because I already know.
Thank God, I didn’t believe you when you said you had us,” I spoke calmly.
“Britt…” he started, and I cut him off.
“You can save it. I love you, but this will not happen, and I will be
getting rid of this baby. You’ve left me with too many empty promises. This
shit is beyond me.” I turned on my heels to walk away before he could
respond. This night was supposed to be about fun and turning up, but it
ended with shit because he can’t keep his dick in his pants.
It’s time to show him. I need space away from him. He doesn’t have my
best interest at heart, and I see that clearly now.
I know I wasn’t supposed to be drinking, but I knew how much this
night meant to Mari, so I was taking one for the team since I knew I had the
abortion scheduled for next week. As I was heading back to our section, I
started to feel nauseous, and I was ready to go. Channing ruined everything.
His decisions, his judgment, and all of his fucking audacity. It’s just too
much for me.
After arriving back at our section, I noticed Mari was alone.
“Sisss, you ready? I’m ready to go grab some food and head home,” I
stated with my pouty lips out.
“Yes, sis, I’m ready.” We gathered our things and went to get in the car.
Club Blend was still packed, and I knew Channing was proud of himself
and so was I. Too bad this was his last time seeing me. May the next move
be your best move, I thought.
Mari and I climbed into my truck, and I sped out of the parking lot. I
was ready to get out of dodge.
“Britt, slow this damn truck down. I love my life. I don’t know if you
do, but I do, hoe!” she said while laughing. I could do anything but laugh
out loud too. Mari always made things better in my world.
“What do you have a taste for? I want some of Rayford’s good ass
wings,” she said while reclining her seat.
 “Rayford’s is cool. It’s only about twenty minutes from here then we
can go straight to your house. I’ll probably stay tonight because I’m dog
tired, sis.”
“You know you’re welcome there anytime. Mom always told you that
after she found out about how your mom was.” Her voice laced with
sympathy.
“I know sis. Thank you for always being here for me!”
“Always,” she replied.
“Okay sister, so this fine man keeps popping up? What’s the deal?” Britt
quizzed with a small smirk.
I couldn’t help but smile after she asked because I was really feeling
this man and I couldn’t even deny it.
“I don’t know. He just keeps popping up. I just feel this strong pull
when he’s near, but I just shake it off,” I said while shrugging my shoulders.
“Yeah, I know that feeling all too well. You might want to stir clear of
that for now. You still have school to finish and the last thing I want for you
is to mess up at the very end.” Britt’s voice was with concern.
“Too bad he doesn’t know my real name, and I’m sure I won’t be seeing
him again. So it doesn’t matter,” I said while sticking my tongue out. I
know she just was looking out for me but she only let me live a realistic
dream sometimes.
I was just ready to get home. So, Dom would have to take a backseat for
now.
We made small talk about our night as we drove down the streets of St.
Emerald until it was time to take our exit. She told me about the details of
what happened at the club with her brother and Domonick. Chan could be
such an asshole sometimes, but then there was that sweet side he always
showed me.
We pulled up to the front and the place was packed out. We waited
about thirty minutes before they could take orders, but I didn’t mind the
wait because I knew this five-piece whole hot & honey lemon pepper wing
plate with fries and a large lemonade light ice was about to hit the spot.
We waited for just as long on our food, so after about a full hour, we
were on our way to the Moody Compound to shower, get into our night
clothes, and pig out on these plates. Lord, my mouth was watering just
thinking about it.
 The guards at the door knew it was us because we approached the gates
with our windows down. They opened the gates, and I rounded the circular
driveway and parked behind Mari’s car.
We walked in, she sat the bags on the counter, and we both headed
upstairs to our respectable rooms. Yes! I have a room in my best friend's
house because I spent more time here than I did at home when I was
growing up.
After stepping into the shower and washing my body twice with my
Dove soap, I stepped out of the shower and headed to the bed to moisturize
my body and get dressed. I loved the Lemon Drop fragrance from Magnolia
Bath and Soap. I grabbed the whipped shea butter and went to work.
My phone chimed, and I knew it was only one person this late at night.
Finally, being dressed shortly after two in the morning, I headed down
to the kitchen. I heated my plate, grabbed a bottle of water, and headed back
upstairs. I’m sure the reason I’m so tired is because of this baby.
Either way, I ate my food while flipping through channels and finally
deciding on watching Criminal Minds. Once I finished, I sat my plate on the
nightstand and laid down. The next thing I knew, the TV was watching me.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 10
CHAN
DRAMA.

THAT SHIT just blew my whole mood. I marched back into my office
and told Janiya she had to get the fuck out. I was so pissed. Shit just keeps
spiraling with Britt and me. I want to be with her, but I know I’m not done
playing yet.
Janiya went to the bathroom in my office and washed her mouth out
then headed back to the floor. She walked out like she had an attitude, but I
didn’t really give two flying fucks. She just had to stay mad.
I had a couple of stops to make before I went home to see what my
father needed. I quickly dressed and locked up my office before heading
downstairs to tell the operation manager that I would be leaving for the
night.
I walked out back to my vehicle and started it before peeling off into the
warm summer night. The one thing I loved about living in St. Emerald is
the scenery. It was always so warm, inviting, and peaceful to drive around
in the southern air. While taking in the world around me, my mind drifted
off to what my family would be like if I chose to be a one-woman man.
Would I get bored?
Would it be the best thing that ever happened to me?
Hard? Easy?
Decisions, mane.
Someone laid on the horn behind me, snapping me out of my thoughts. I
rolled down my window and flipped them off. I pulled off and headed to a
nearby trap house we had. As I pulled up and noticed the time, my clock
read 2:02 AM. I was ready to take my black ass home. Before getting out, I
checked my phone. I was surprised I hadn’t heard from Britt yet. Normally
she would have texted me by now going crazy, but nothing.
I shot her a text anyway.
BAE🍑: I’m sorry about earlier. I know the things I say don’t
match my actions, but I do want to do better for you and my
seed, mane. Britt, just considered staying and raising our baby
with me. I love you, and I know I have a fucked-up way of
showing you, but I’m ready to get it together.

I closed my phone and exited my vehicle. I knew she wasn’t going to

text right back, if at all. She always seemed like she didn’t need a man, so I
always gave her what she wanted. After yesterday's events, I knew things
were about to change. I just don’t know how.
___________________
After getting everything from the trap, I went home and crashed. I
realized that Britt was here when I got in, but I decided to leave her alone
because I knew both of us were tired. I texted her last night, and she left me
on read around 3:00 AM. I couldn’t even blame her because I was the issue
this time. Like every time.
I hopped out of bed, went to my bathroom on the opposite side of my
room and handled my morning hygiene. I may have been a dog with his
dick in the streets, but I took pride in taking care of myself. I washed my
face and brushed my teeth before throwing on my Polo pajama pants and
walking downstairs for breakfast. I spotted Britt as I walked down the
stairs. She was sitting at the breakfast nook on the right side of the kitchen
by the two large bay windows. She was so pretty with her hair up in a
messy bun. She had on one of my shirts that basically swallowed her slim,
thick frame whole. I couldn’t tell if she had shorts on or not, but to my
knowledge, I’m sure she didn’t. That’s how she always walked around her
house.
She never took her eyes off whatever book she was reading as she drank
the herbal tea that she kept. She always had a couple for breakfast. I gazed
at her and admired her beauty. She even had that pregnancy glow that
everyone talked about. I hope she considers what I say, but she’s known for
being hardheaded. I fixed my plate from what the chefs had cooked earlier
that morning and went to take a seat next to her in the nook. I know she
probably didn’t want me near her, but I had to try again.
 She just stared at me. She never blinked and she didn’t turn her head. I
saw the pain in her eyes, but I didn’t want it there. I wanted to hold her and
explain my actions, but I knew she wouldn’t let me, and she didn't care. She
finally broke her gaze from me and focused on her book and tea again.
“Did you get my text last night?”
“Yeah,” she dryly responded.
“You didn’t think I should have gotten a response back?” I quizzed.
“Nah,” she stated.
She was so dry with me that I felt like I was cooking in the Sahara
desert. She didn’t respond to me. She had cut her emotions off from me.
This was hard to deal with. She knew it was.
“So, you’re going to just keep being dry with me? Like I don’t mean
shit to you?” I asked.
Britt let out a long sigh, “Look, let's make this easy for each other. I’m
not holding you back from being with whomever or whatever you want to
be with. I would like you to respect me and do the same. Besides, I’ll be
moving in the next week or two, and this will all be a distant memory for
the both of us.”
“You’re not moving,” I stated matter-of-factly.
“Yeah, you couldn’t have heard me. I did not ask for your permission on
shit that I choose to do with my life,” her voice started to raise a little bit.
“Once I get this baby sucked out of me, it and you will be a distant memory.
You’ve done enough damage, Chan. No need to add any more.” With that,
she stood and exited the kitchen.
Who would have thought I would be here right now? I couldn’t blame
anyone but myself for this mess I had caused.
___________________
Shortly after finishing up my breakfast, I made my way to the second
floor of the Moody compound to my Padre’s office. He was always there; it
was rare that we saw him anywhere else.
I approached the door and knocked three times.
“Come in,” he called from behind the door. As I pushed the door open,
Padre was sitting behind his large cherry oak desk with his head buried into
some papers. His office was a good two thousand square feet. He had
everything from a wet bar to a lounging area in this one room. I walked
over to the chairs in front of his desk and took a seat.
“What’s up, Padre? You said you needed to speak with me,” I quizzed.
 “Yeah, you’ve seemed pretty busy. I wanted you to get up earlier
yesterday, but I guess you had business to tend to?” he eyed me
suspiciously.
“I had some things to wrap up last night, Pa. You know the grand
opening was last night. I didn’t get in until after three in the morning. I had
a long night and figured you didn’t want me to disturb you and ma that late
last night,” I explained.
“I suppose that answer will suffice for now, my hijo (son). Now, onto
more pressing matters. You know we made the deal with the three
connecting families to swear in a fifth family. The time has come to
complete the deal. This will give us more power than we can ever imagine.
The Rivera cartel has reached beyond the United States border well into
Mexico,” he said with a small smirk on his face. My pa was always so
money-hungry in my eyes. He would do anything to keep his power and
money.
“Alright, Pa… that’s good. Is there something I need to do to make sure
the transition runs smoothly?” I inquired.
“Yea, I need you to listen to me and this conversation can’t go beyond
these walls. You hear me, hijo (son)? This information is going to change a
lot of lives.” He started looking directly into my eyes.
I acknowledged him with a quick head nod, not knowing what I was
about to agree to.
“The Rivera Cartel has done some things that have damaged this family
dynamics. We will have to come to an agreement, but I think they will be
setting up an arrangement for marriage with the Rivera’s oldest son. This
will require a suitable candidate and they just so happen to propose this
offer to me. I think it’s because they are hiding something, but we will
know soon enough.”
“And who will the marriage affect?” I interrogated.
“He has a son named Dom; most know him as Slaughta. You may have
heard of him. He will be marrying your sister in the next three months. If
not before.” He stared with a small smile. Like this shit was funny.
My mouth fell agape. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. My sister
was about the flip the fuck out! Then his shiesty ass has put me in the
middle of it. Ain’t this ‘bout a bitch! I just know he’s not serious.
“You for real, Pa? Like wtf? I could knock your head off. Like I know
you are not saying what I think you are saying. This is some bullshit, mane.
Regardless of how you put it, my sister shouldn’t have to sacrifice even
more of her freedom for the next nigga.” I stood up fast, knocking the chair
backward in the process.
“I got to give it to you, mane. You have taken the cake with this one.
She already suffers enough, and now you’re about to arrange for her to
marry a nigga that she doesn’t even fucking know!” I yelled. I was livid.
I’m sure he could feel the heat radiating off my body as I towered over the
front of his desk.
I could knock his fucking head off.
“Hijo, I know this sounds bad, but I really am doing this for our family.
Being one of the four families in the association circle leaves us vulnerable
in many ways. This will be great, not only for protection but for profit as
well. I don’t expect you and your sister to understand fully, but I do expect
both of you to obey as Pa says, bueno?” he stated more than asked.
I just glimpsed at him and walked off but stopped briefly,” You know
my sister loves you beyond words, Chaos, and for you to sell her short by
arranging to marry her off like she’s some pawn in your game of chess is
fucked up. I’d even trade places with baby sis because I know her life has
been hard enough. You better pray to whatever God you’re fond of because
if this decision YOU made for this FAMILY goes left and my sister is
harmed, I’m coming for your head, and I won’t stop until I place that bitch
on a silver platter.” I opened the door and walked out before he could
respond.
I couldn’t believe this. I mean, I had enough going on in my life, and
then Pa goes and does this.
I made a quick U-turn in the middle of the hall and headed back to my
Padre’s office. I had to ask him. I stuck my head back in the door, “When
do you plan to tell her?” I said with venom laced in my voice.
“Sunday Dinner. The Rivera’s are supposed to be coming for dinner.
She will get to meet everyone then,” he said.
I closed the door without a response. I didn’t know if I should tell my
sister or leave well enough alone. I don’t want him to blindside her, but I
already know she’s going to feel betrayed by my Padre and maybe even me
if she finds out I knew all along.
“Hey hijo, one more thing. The Rivera Cartel has always been the fifth
family, but something happened as to why they weren’t actively using their
authority. Their boss, Juan Rivera, has a younger son named Dereck, and he
attempted to assassinate your grandfather. This has yet to be confirmed, but
I will be soon taking a trip to your Uncle Marvin’s for the final information.
With that being said, the Rivera Cartel will owe us to spare his son’s life.”
He chuckled.
This can’t be life.
These last two days have been hell for real.
I’m losing Britt and my baby sister all in a day. I walked to the foyer
and just stood there looking out the kitchen window to my right. It was a
beautiful view with mountains and green grass everywhere. The trees blew
in the wind and the birds flew from tree to tree. Nature always calmed me,
but today, I couldn’t focus on it for long. I went to sit on the couch as my
mom walked in.
She noticed that my face was tight and my fists was clenched shut, so
she knew something was happening.
My mom, Alikay, is my best friend. She was one of the only people who
calmed the monster inside of me when things seemed to be going all wrong.
The other was Britt. I tried my hardest to deny it.
She slowly walked over to me and sat next to me on the couch.
Reaching out, she stroked the back of my hand until I finally unballed both
of them and sighed. This shit was heavy, but I knew I couldn’t involve her
in the Association business.
She peered into my eyes, “What’s wrong, mama’s baby boy?”
“It’s just a lot going on, ma. It seems like so much is falling apart, and I
don’t know which way to turn,” I said lowly.
“Well baby, I know God will never give you no more than you can bear.
He is always a man who is on time whenever and however you need him. I
know you have things going on and are very busy, but you could stand to
stop by and spend some time with your mom,” She smiled at me and
winked.
“My bad ma. I have been busy, but you know I got you,” I said with a
gigantic smile.
“When are you and Amari going to give me some grandbabies around
here? I’m so tired of having nothing to do that I’m about to go crazy,” she
said with a laugh.
“Well, about that-” I said.
“Oh, my goodness! Am I going to be a glam-ma, Channing?” she
squealed.
 “She is pregnant, but she said she’s going to get rid of it. Before you say
anything, let me finish. She isn’t a bad person; I’ve just put her through a
lot with my ways. She told me that she didn’t want to deal with me anymore
and she will be moving soon. She just wants me to accompany her to the
abortion clinic, and we go our separate-” Before I could finish my sentence,
Ma popped me in the back of the head so hard, I got dizzy.
“Now you listen to me and listen to me good, Channing. I may be many
things, but I am a woman first and foremost. Had you not been out here
running wild and sewing your royal oats to everyone you could find, then
maybe, just maybe, I would be able to talk to this girl and get her to
reconsider. But being that your hoe ass probably can’t even get her on the
phone because of your actions, I just gotta settle with talking to you.”
“No woman wants a man whore as a husband, and damn shall not a man
whore for a baby daddy. I don’t blame her for wanting to get rid of it, but I
would have loved to meet her and get to know her. You really messed up,
didn't you Channing?” she quizzed.
“Yeah, ma, and there really nothing I can do to change her mind,” I
stated.
“Well, what’s this young lady’s name?” she inquired.
“It’s me, Mama Alikay,” Britt stated. I didn’t even know she was still
here. After hearing the news, I guess I wasn’t paying anyone else any
attention.
Ma gasped and shook her head.
“You two sit down. I need to talk to you both. I have plenty of
questions,” Ma stated sternly.
“How long has this been going on, you two? Don’t lie to me either,” she
fussed.
“Well, we started talking back when she was around seventeen, but we
didn’t officially you know, until maybe four years after that. We built a
bond before anything,” I answered honestly, looking directly at Britt. She
seemed tired and drained. Her eyes held so much hurt, and I knew I was the
cause.
“Mama Alikay, I don’t plan to keep this baby for many reasons, but
given the circumstances, I think it's time to move away. I have a job offer in
California for an interior design job, and having a baby will only slow me
down. I love your son to pieces, but he can’t get it right, and I’m done
trying. My heart is broken, and trying to carry a baby would just be too
much. I hope you understand. I won’t dare take this from you if I knew that
he would do right, but he can’t promise me that, and I can’t keep holding on
to something that doesn’t want to be kept.
My love for your son runs deep. In many ways, he’s all I know, but I
don’t want this kind of love. I don’t want toxic love. I want the R&B 90s
kind of love, where my man can’t get enough of me and only me. I have no
desire to be with your son anymore. I love him, but that ship has sailed,”
she stated strongly.
I knew she meant it too. Up until this point, I never realized something
very important.
She was in love with me, the same way I was with her.
“Mama Alikay, I have played some too, so I can’t say I’m innocent. It is
the whole ordeal, but I am woman enough to speak my truth for what it is.
Channing and I built a bond off of trauma, if you ask me, and I foolishly
thought it could be more. Sadly, it's taken me this long and this sizeable
hiccup to realize it. I’m no longer holding him, and neither will he,” Britt
said as she glared at me through glossy eyes. She began fanning her eyes as
she started to speak again.
“I know I have to let him go because I’m making this decision to lose
the only family I have because I don’t want to be stuck in another situation
that I can’t get out of. I didn’t get to choose my mom and get a happy life. I
dealt with so much my whole childhood, and I refuse to not give my baby a
two-parent household because of my selfish reasons, and I hope you
understand, ma.”
“Ohhhh baby, I completely understand. I wouldn’t dare tell you to keep
a baby in a mess like this. I know this is hard for you. I want my grandbaby
more than anything, but I want you healthy first. Regardless of how
anything is said or done, you are my baby too. I’ve watched you grow up
into a beautiful young woman, and you are making decisions like one as
well. If you ever need me, I’m always here, baby,” Ma said with sadness in
her voice.
“And you!” she said while slapping the back of my head. “I raised you
better than that. I showed you exactly how a woman is supposed to be
treated. Yo’ little wee-wee done got you in some shit that you can’t get out
of. You not only owe her an apology but me and your sister as well,” she
fussed.
“Does she know, Chan?” Ma asked.
 Britt and I shook our heads in unison.
“Lord, oh, Lord! What are you two going to do? You’ve run her best
friend off, and now she won’t even want to deal with you, Chan. What in
the world? It’s one thing if this works, but believe me when I say she’s not
going to be happy about this, and you know how your sister can get. Good
Luck with all of that,” Ma said as she got up and walked away, shaking her
head.
Britt just glared at me and stood up. As she began to walk past me, I
grabbed her hand. She quickly snatched it away. “And for the record, I
loved you with everything in me. For years, I’ve only wanted you, but after
I leave, please forget that I even exist.” She walked away without another
word.
I just put my head down and took that whole conversation in. I hate that
I have put her through all of this. Life is bullshit right now.
“FUCK!” I yelled out and walked up to my room. Maybe a little sleep
will do me some justice. I need to start today over.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 11
CALI “CHAOS” MOODY
EVERYTHING ON THE TABLE.

YEAH… yeah… I know I’m the last motherfucka you want to hear from. I
have to explain some shit to y’all asses, though, so listen the fuck up.
I’m a boss first and a family man second. It’s in that order for a reason.
My wife and children's safety has always been my number one priority, and
if I didn’t take my job seriously I wouldn't have been around this long or
been able to take care of the things I needed to for them to succeed. Let’s go
back so you can understand a few things about the family Alikay and I
began to build all those years ago...
St. Emerald Island is a place that was built in the name of my ancestors.
My dad's side is what we considered full-blooded Italian. Domenico, my
daddy, fled from his home country of Italy with my mother and I in tow.
The Italians didn’t believe in marrying for love. My mom, Kamari, who
was African American, and my dad met at a coffee shop not too far from my
dad’s home in Italy. The two began courting one another and one thing led
to another. My mom was over there on assignment for the Navy and was
due back in the States in the upcoming months. Three months to be exact.
My dad knew from the very beginning that my mom was his soulmate. He
had fallen for her and hard.
My dad came from a family of organized crime, or hustlers as we call
them now. They had been building their empire for years at this point. They
thought their organization was solid, but they had rats everywhere in their
crew.
One morning, their cousin's house, Juan, was raided and arrested. No
one was even aware that they were under Carabinieri surveillance. Then
there was a domino effect that happened. The only person who didn’t get
arrested from the organization was my little cousin, Riolo. Turns out he got
busted by the Carabinieri one night and turned into an informant for the
ROS, a known special task force for organized crime in Italy. Life for me
was turned upside down for a short while because my father and mother
were arrested, and I was left to find out what really happened on my own. I
was an only child, so I had to find a way for myself.
Thankfully, I wasn’t home when they raided the Palazzo. I was across
town with some friends. As I walked up to the Palazzo and saw everything
that was going on, I decided to turn around and go back where I came from.
Later that night, I saw what was happening unfold on the small television
set my friend had.
My parents were released shortly after and came to find me. After my
parents and I fled to the United States. Somehow we ended up in the
southern part of the States, and the rest was history.
We landed on St. Emerald Island, which was located on the northern
coast of Florida. We were just a short ferry ride away. St. Emerald Island is
a beautiful place to live. We had beautiful clear blue waves daily on the
beach. It was almost a small replica of Italy with a little flare. My papa and
ma loved it over here. They were doing pretty well off when we stayed in
Italy, so our lifestyle didn’t change much when we made it to St. Emerald.
My parents were smart though, and were always one step ahead of the
bullshit. They made sure their plane was carting sixty pounds of the purest
cocaine. They knew that they needed a safety net and my father made sure
of that.
So, once we touched down in St. Emerald– my papa got in contact with
his cousin who lived in Miami already, and the rest was history. St. Emerald
Island was introduced into the world of organized crime. My father and
three other Afro-Italian families formed the Association of St. Emerald
Island. The Association had four families and the hierarchy was similar to
the mafia because of our Italian descent. My father sat as the leading Boss
until his assassination attempt around two years ago. After that, Domenico
went into hiding and turned the mafia organization over to me.
My father’s people didn’t like the sudden change. I had to overthrow a
few of his people for trying me. I may have been a lot like my dad, but
about my respect… I’d kill anything walking.
As I dismantled my dad’s organization, I reformed it into my own and
what you see now standing at this time. My second in command or
consigliere is Bozzak. He has been with me since I stepped foot on St.
Emerald Island soil. He has been my A1 since day one and was the only
person in the association, other than me, that could handle the day-to-day, if
I needed to step back for a while.
We met on the first day of my high school stint in St. Emerald. I was
always a nerdy kid and he stood up for me on my first day of high school.
Some jockey-looking box-head ass niggas were trying to jump me because I
was a new kid and wasn’t falling at their feet. My dad always told me you
must ride solo until you know their loyalty lies with only you. True enough,
I was going to fight my way out of that jumping, but it was ire to have
someone fighting along with me. I never had anyone to fight with. Since my
parents opted for only one kid, it was always just me. So, I consider Bozzak
my brother because no matter what, he was always true to the association
and me. We grow up together, fucked bitches together, hell even proposed
together.
After his wife lost her battle with an aggressive form of stomach cancer
called Diffuse adenocarcinoma. It took her beautiful, soulful body down in
less than six months. He took about two years away from the association to
get his mind right. No man should have to see his wife the way he had to. I
can say I commend him for taking on those hard tasks and still working
every day. He only came out of that two-year hiatus because I needed him.
My father's assassination attempt hadn't been handled yet. I had just gotten
word from my uncle in Miami that he had some information, so we were
headed that way to chop it up with him.
___________________
Bozzak and I arrived at the airstrip in Miami and Two black Tahoe
SUVs were waiting to transport us to my uncle’s compound. That cousin
who helped my father build The Association in St. Emerald was the eldest
child. My uncle, Marvin, was always good to my papa. He helped establish
rules and watch our backs as the Delsilenes, Capone, Moody, Salvias, and
Johnson families take St. Emerald by storm.
“Bossman, you think he got the name of who shot your father, or you
think he just has a strong lead? You know we don’t do unnecessary trips for
just a possibility.” Bozzak stated.
“Yeah, you’re right, Boz, but this is my papa we're talking about. Small
or large, I have to follow up with the man. They could be gunning for my
whole family for all I know,” I said as I watched the highway turn into a
dirty road.
My uncle’s compound sat on fifty acres of land at the edge of the
southern Florida coastal Miami. The place was breathtaking, to say the
least. I loved coming out to visit when I was younger. His youngest child
was about my age, but he decided that his life would be in the blue-collar
world, and I respected that. This life carried stressors that could easily be
avoided. We drove down the road for about ten minutes and pulled up to the
front doors of the east wing.
Climbing out of the truck, I had to stretch for a time before proceeding
to the door with Bozzak to my right. Uncle Marvin met us at the door.
“Che succede, nipote? Mi sei mancato. Cosa sta succedendo? (What's
up, nephew? I've missed you. What's been going on?)” he asked as we
walked down the hallway behind him.
“Ohh, niente zio. Sono pronto per mettermi al lavoro. Come sta la
famiglia qui?(Ohh, nothing uncle. I'm ready to get down to business. How's
the family here?)” I explained as we made our way into his office. We were
fluent in Italian because communication has always been key to a
successful organization. Even Bozzak learned Italian because we frequently
spoke the language before him.
“Bene, nipote. Non c'era un modo semplice per dirlo... tuo padre è stato
coinvolto in un affare andato storto. Si stava incontrando con un gatto
Rivera ed è stato colto di sorpresa. Per fortuna tuo padre era protetto dalla
portiera del veicolo. Stava uscendo dall'edificio ea metà strada dopo aver
rifiutato il loro accordo per entrare nell'Associazione ed è allora che hanno
aperto il fuoco. (Well, nephew. There was no easy way to put this ... your
dad got shot up in a deal gone wrong. He was meeting up with some Rivera
cat and he was blindsided. Luckily, your papa was shielded by the vehicle's
door. He was exiting the building and halfway to after turning down their
deal to enter the Association and that's when they open fire.)” Marvin spoke
with a voice laced with anger.
“Papà mi ha raccontato di quell'incontro ma mi ha assicurato che non
aveva bisogno di me per niente. Ha detto che doveva incontrare il figlio più
giovane di Juan Rivera, il suo nome... il suo nome? (Papa told me about
that meeting but he assured me that it wasn't anything he needed me for. He
said that he was meeting with the youngest son of Juan Rivera, his name...
his name?)” I said as I pondered over his youngest son’s name.
 “So che sono passati 2 anni dal tentato omicidio, ma dovevo capire
cosa fosse successo a papà. Se questo gatto è quello che ha organizzato
tutto o ha sparato a papà, allora il Cartello Rivera ci vedrà presto! (I know
it's been two years since the assassination attempt, but I had to figure out
what happened to Papa. If this cat is the one who set it up or shot at papa,
then the Rivera Cartel will be seeing us soon!)”
“Aspetta ora nipote, c'è dell'altro nella storia.... dobbiamo procedere
con cautela con questo. Tuo padre non è stato sincero con te riguardo a
quell'incontro e allo scopo. Questa è la sua storia da raccontare, anche se
quindi dovrai chiederglielo. (Hold on now, nephew. Tere’s more to the
story… we have to tread lightly with this one. Your dad hasn’t been upfront
with you about that meeting and what it was for. That’s his story to tell,
though so you’ll have to ask him.)” he said calmly.
I just shook my head because I knew this would be an ugly situation.
We stayed and hung out with Unc for a little while before heading back to
the airstrip. My next stop was to see my wife. She’s always the calm to my
storm. She’s my angel. My Papa better pray that he didn’t royally screw the
entire association. Hopefully, I don’t have to take this to the table for the
Association to sort out.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 12
MARI
IN THE WIND.

I WOKE up from a terrible dream around 1:45 this morning in a cold

sweat, nearly screaming as I sat up abruptly in my bed. I threw the covers
off of my body and hopped up fast. My bed was drenched in sweat.
This was all the work of the medications that I had to take for my
mental condition. I hate that medicine with a passion. True enough, it kept
me sane, but it made me feel like I was losing other parts of me. I just wish
it would go away and I could magically be healed… just wishful thinking.
I went ahead and took a quick shower to clear my mind. I knew it was
pretty late, and everyone was sleeping, but I was thirsty. After searching my
closet for my favorite silk green pajama set, I slipped them on and headed
downstairs. I wanted to grab a water and snack before attempting to shut
my eyes again. I walked out of my bedroom and down the spiral stairs, but
before I could reach the bottom, I halted. I heard voices but couldn’t
distinguish who it was because I was still a good way away from them. I
lightly tiptoed to the edge of the door frame and stole a peek in. My eyes
got as big as saucers.
I couldn’t believe those two were sitting next to each other the way they
argued all the time. I stood there as Britt poured her heart out to my mom
about my brother. I stood there in utter shock, hearing them both talk to Ma.
My thoughts began to run rapidly. I listened for a good twenty minutes at
the door frame and decided that I had heard far too much, and I couldn’t
take anymore. I shot back up the stairs being careful not to make a noise.
I still couldn’t wrap my mind around what I just heard though. These
two motherfuckas have been pulling the wool over my eyes. How could
they be doing this behind my back? How did I miss the signs? They could
have told me. If they really love each other, they wouldn’t be hiding their
fling or relationship, but I’m mad because they hid it from me, of all people.
My best friend and my brother. Let’s start with ewwwwwwww because
he’s a man whore. Secondly, he’s a hoe three times so, yeahhhh, wtf. My
good sister could have done better than him, for sure. She had niggas falling
at her feet, and he’s the one she chooses to be with and wants to love
wholeheartedly. Ain’t this ‘bout a bitch.
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Let’s not forget she’s pregnant by him and getting rid of it all in the
same breath. I’m livid, honestly, and the fact of the matter is, I can’t even
say anything to either of them because I wasn’t supposed to hear that
conversation in the first place. I’m even madder that she hasn't even
considered that I wanted a connection to my niece or nephew. The whole
situation just blew me away. So much for sleep, I thought.
I decided to just climb back into bed and try to relax enough to go to
sleep. This just can’t be life. After a few minutes, I heard muffled voices in
the hallway. I knew it was Britt and Chan, but I didn’t even want to know
anything else. I tuned it out and picked up my Kindle Oasis. I had been
reading “Snatched by a Don” by P. Wise. Just know Logan is bae, y'allll!
As I sat in my bay window reading, I realized that I couldn’t stay
focused. I would glance around my room, taking in the sights. My big
California king-size bed sat in the middle. My decor was gold and black
with a hint of mint green throughout. My Ugg comforter was white and
plush. My master bathroom was to the right of my room and inside there
was my massive master closet. I had a vanity that sat close to the bay
window and a lounging area next to my window also. I love my room. It
became my sanctuary after being in a mental institution. As I continued into
deep thoughts about my life while scanning my room every so often it
clicked. I need a vacation. I’m ready to be free and do things my way.
I pulled out my phone and looked up resorts to go to. I think I’ll go to
Mexico because between my illness, my brother, and my best friend, this is
just too much! I’ve been on lockdown long enough. I browsed the internet
for a bit until I found Secrets Huatulco in Mexico and I booked a suite for
myself. I booked my flight to leave in the next four hours, so I got up and
began to pack. It was time for me to get out and be away for a bit. I needed
to get my mind right because when I came back, I would be having a
conversation with Britt and my brother, whether they liked it or not.
 I finished packing shortly after 4 AM so I decided to lay down for a nap
until about 6. My plane leaves at about 8:30 AM and I need to be on time.
The airport was about 40 minutes from our mansion in St. Emerald. I set
my alarm, laid back in my bed, and drifted off to sleep.
___________________
I woke up to the sound of my alarm going off. I walked into the
bathroom to relieve my bladder. After relieving myself, I hopped in the
shower and washed my body thoroughly. I grabbed my plush white towel
and wrapped it around my voluptuous body. I walked over to my sink to
handle my morning hygiene routine. I was in a hurry because I really didn’t
want to explain my departure to anyone. I finally walked back into my
room and Britt was sitting on my bed.
“Hey, sissy pooh. Where are you going this early?” She quizzed.
“Hey, I’m going out. What’s up?” I asked dryly. I knew she could
probably tell I wasn’t in the mood, but she kept going.
“Ok. Are you okay? Where are you going, bitch? You know we don’t
keep secrets,” she said, raising her voice just a little.
I chuckled. I couldn’t tell her just yet that I knew what she had going
on, so I opted for the simplest response. “I’m good. I’m just going out to the
park to get my mind right; you know how things get in my head
occasionally.”
“Ok, sis. Well, text me when you get back. I’m about to head home. I
had fun last night. I also have some things I want to talk to you about, so
don’t forget.” She fussed.
“I won’t. See you later, girl,” I said. She got up and left the same way
she came in. After quickly dressing, I headed downstairs. I still needed to
grab my meds and make sure that I had all my important documents in my
purse. This trip was going to be so refreshing. I grabbed my meds and
documents out of my mom’s office and headed back upstairs to place them
in my bag. I quickly did an overlook of my room to make sure I wasn’t
missing anything. Then I stopped in the mirror and looked at my outfit. I
was dressed down in a mint green catching flight two-piece biker short set
with big frame Dior shades and matching shoes. I was looking greater than
I actually felt.
I stepped away from the mirror and went to grab my luggage. It was a
little after 7 AM, and I needed to get a move on things. I went down the
stairs and headed for the front door. I moved quickly because my driver was
waiting for me. I was able to make my exit without anyone seeing me,
thank God. I was being smart about leaving things. I took my bodyguard,
and I made sure I had everything to keep me safe while I was away. I
wanted no part in any drama for the entire trip. As I slid into the back seat
of Blitz's Tahoe, the cool air engulfed my body.
“Nobody knows my location, Blitz,” I said as I looked down at my
ringing phone. It was Britt.
“I’m taking you because I trust you. If any of my family calls, explain
that I am safe, and you have eyes on me at all times. They are not to come
find me or I will run and never look back. I need time,” I explained.
I had this feeling that life after this trip was going to get hectic. I picked
my phone up and sent out a text in the family group message.
Famiglia:
I am going away for a while. I need time to process some things. Life
has a funny way of showing you who everyone is. Don’t come find me. I
know all of you just want to know if I’m taking my meds, and I am. Blitz is
with me, and he will make sure I’m safe. Take care, love y’all.
I hit the send button, powered my phone off, and threw it out the
window as we crossed the bridge. I had nothing left to lose at this point. I
was stressed, and for some nagging reason, I felt like this was only the
beginning. My life was great up until you mentioned freedom.
Mari needed a second.
I needed a second.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 13
SLAUGHTA
TWO WEEKS LATER

Bullshit.

I ROLLED over to pick up my ring phone and glared at the clock seeing it
was eight o’clock. This better be damn good. When my morning starts
terrible most of the time, the rest of my day goes the same.
As I picked up my phone, I looked at who was calling and sighed. It
was Lana. She had been calling me for weeks now. I just didn’t have
anything for her. Yeah, I know we slept together occasionally, but I don’t do
the clingy girlfriend thing when I don’t even have a girlfriend. I let the
phone ring out in my hand. I was annoyed as fuck, to say the least.
I hopped out of bed and headed to the master bathroom suite. I was
ready to shower and get started for the day. Before I could get to the
bathroom door, my phone rang again. This time, it was my Pops. If he was
calling in the morning, that means it was important.
I picked it up right away.
“Son, meet me at the house in about three hours. I have some things to
discuss with you. It can’t wait.” He hung up before I could respond. That
was becoming his thing, but it most definitely pissed me off. I woke up at
eight after a long night to be ordered to do something. You got to be fucking
kidding me. Slaughta was about to appear sooner than everyone thought. I
was getting madder by the second. I know I will probably be livid by the
time I see pops.
I got my name Slaughta at an early age. Being a part of a cartel family, I
was groomed to be a lethal force. I had witnessed some of everything, and I
have always liked knives… machetes, to be exact. The first time I notice
my uncle, Keem, slice a nigga head off in one motion, I was fascinated. I
was so fascinated that the first chance I got to order my own, I did. I started
small and worked my way to now owning a wall full of machetes
worldwide. They were stored in the SlaughterHouse, about two hours away
from me.
Finally, I walked into the bathroom. I turned on my shower and decided
to first handle my facial and dental hygiene. After getting everything
situated, I began.
Don’t even think the shit. I believe in taking care of myself and ensuring
my body is properly cared for. Your body is your temple and you must treat
it as such.
I looked in the mirror and realized the bags that had begun to form
under my eyes. I’ve never appropriately slept. My thoughts ran most at
night, leaving me exhausted by the following day. Yesterday was the first
time I've crashed since last Thursday. Four days is too long while running
off of six hours of sleep. Insomnia was a bitch.
After completing my skincare routine, I climbed in the shower and let
the water roll down my head onto my body. The warmth of the shower
soothed my soul. I washed three times and got out. I had a long day ahead
of me, so I needed to put a move on it. The first stop was my Pop’s house. If
it wasn’t one thing, it was another with that man.
Dressed from head to toe in all black, it was time for me to ride. My
outfits were always straightforward with a bit of ice. I wore a plain black
tee, a pair of black jeans, and my black Timberland boots. I did a once-over
in the mirror, grabbed my keys off the table by the door and left.
Climbing into my 2023 Chrome G-Wagon, I pushed to start it up. My
baby was clean. I loved my cars. A car whipped in behind me as I was
getting ready to pull out of my driveway.
I knew exactly who this was, but I refused to give her the satisfaction of
getting under my skin. Lana was a beautiful woman, and she's been
incredible until these last few weeks. She started blowing me up out of the
blue. I never answered because she ain't got shit to do with me. We were
just fuck buddies, and I made that apparent off-rip.
She climbed out of her car swiftly, and I knew it was about to be some
bullshit. She had a bat in her hand. I hopped out of my car so fast I damn
near stumbled and fell flat on my ass, but Lana had me fucked up. She
knew, like everyone else, that my cars were off-limits. I started
powerwalking toward her and caught the bat just in time. She was about
five seconds away from smashing my taillight in.
“Bitch, are you crazy?” I said, clenching my teeth.
“Hell yeah! I am. You gone fuck me all these years and then decide that
you not going to answer when I call. It’s important, motherfucker!” she
snapped.
“You've pulled up now, so run your mouth. I got shit to do and standing
here bullshitting ain’t one of them,” I said nonchalantly.
“Fuck you, Slaughta. I just wanted to inform you that I found out I was
pregnant a month ago, and it’s yours, you bitch nigga!” she yelled loud
enough for every neighbor I had to hear.
I stood there waiting for her to say she was playing because I knew for
sure that I always used a condom with shawty. I wasn’t out here trying to be
a daddy to multiple kids by multiple women.
“Nah, shawty, I ain’t the daddy. I’ve strapped up with you every time.
So, you can take that baby elsewhere. I ain’t no fucked up individual, but
I’m telling you now what’s going to happen, aight?” I quizzed, looking her
dead in her eyes because she needed to know how grave I was.
“I will only say this once, so listen up! I am not about to have a baby
penned on me when I know for a fact I secure my dick when I’m out here
sleeping with these thots. What I’m saying is I am willing to be there for
you, and when you get further along, we will do a DNA test so that we are
positive the baby is mine, and we will go from there,” I stated with finality.
“Now get yo’ ass back in your vehicle and pull the fuck off now before I
change my mind and do what I know best. Slaughta yo’ ass!” I barked.
She looked at me with crazed eyes but slowly walked to her car. “She’s
gone be a damn problem,” I mumbled to myself as I climbed into my truck
and peeled off.
___________________
“Pops, ain't no way you just said you made a deal for me to get
married?? From everything you’ve explained to me, Dereck bitch ass
should be marrying the broad, not me. I’m not ready for that. I mean, yeah,
I’m getting older, but marriage is one thing, and two strangers are another,
Pops. Like it’s gonna be a cold day in hell before I sign myself up for that
shit,” I said with anger evident in my voice.
“Son, I know this isn’t ideal, but you're the best candidate to do this for
our family. Your brother made a stupid decision, hijo! Ok? We must fix this
somehow, or there will be a war between the families. This is our only way
to form an alliance and not be wiped out because of your brother’s
impulsive actions,” he stated.
“I know there is nothing I can say to improve this but try to look at the
bright side of things. We can have a seat at the Association table through the
Moody Mafia. That also opens up ports from St. Emerald Island and all
across the Canadian waters. This allows us to ship our product anywhere in
the world, hijo? This business arrangement is important to the families' next
chapter into creating continuous generational wealth among us,” he said as
he stood from her chair with his hands out, motioning to the things around
us.
“So, say I do this, pops, who is this princess of the Moody Mafia that
I’ll be marrying? ” I asked. “And why am I doing this again?”
“Well, Hijo, my stupid youngest son, decided to attempt an
assassination on this young lady’s great-grandfather. The Moody Mafia
started the Association about sixty years ago. It was implemented to bring
order to St. Emerald Island and allow money to move efficiently throughout
the town. The Association consists of five families with a hand in a trade of
some sort. Cali “Chaos” Moody started running things after his Padre was
shot! I will also be dealing with your brother, so don’t worry about that. I
want you to focus on Amari and how to make this marriage work for five
years.”
“Five years?!” I yelled.
“Hijo, I know this seems like a lot, but just bear with me. We will all sit
down and go over the contract before anyone walks down the aisle. You
both deserve to negotiate the terms of this agreement,” he spoke calmly.
“This isn’t something I wanted to have to do, but I know it must be
done, hijo, and I might have to kill my youngest Hijo in the process, so
please give me some time on this, hijo. Understand?” Pops said with his
head down.
“Aight” were my final words to my pops, and I quickly got up and left
his office. The sad part is I wasn’t leaving there the same way I came in. I
was leaving out of there with the weight of the Association of St. Emerald
Island, a soon-to-be wife, and a potential baby on my shoulders.
“The fuck kind of shit is this, mane,” I said to no one in particular as I
climbed back in my truck and peeled off. I had no destination in mind, just
me, my blunt, and my radio.
OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 14
BRITT
SOMETHING NEW.

IT’S BEEN 14 days. 336 hours. 20,160 minutes since I last saw or heard
from Amari. She had me worried sick, and everyone else too. I had been in
California for about one week now, and I couldn’t even focus on my dream
job with my dream client because of her missing in action. I didn’t even get
to tell her about the baby or me moving out here. I don’t know if this will be
temporary because I love it here. I have never seen much of any place other
than St. Emerald Island since I was a kid. Of course, I went to Florida
sometimes or out of the country with Channing, but other than that,
nothing! I have never been anywhere by myself. This was my first big girl
decision, and I hate that I couldn’t share my excitement with anyone, not
even my bestie. I miss her so much.
She is the ying to my yang.
The Cristina to my Meredith.
The Julie to my Todd.
She seems to have dropped off the face of the Earth, and the only person
that has tried to be there for me was the person I despised the most.
Channing. Even though I hated that fine ass specimen of a man to my core,
I can’t say it hasn’t been nice to hear his voice every day and not just for
one thing in particular. He has called me every day since I left. He knew I
was hurt because I hadn’t been able to talk to Mari, and it was taking a toll
on me with these pregnancy hormones being all over the place. One minute,
I was hungry, then I was crying. It was crazy and downright ridiculous at
this point. My phone started ringing and it snapped me out of my deep
thoughts. I looked over at my nightstand and noticed it was Channing
Facetiming me.
 I picked up and his sexy ass appeared. So smug, so sexy. My yoni
started throbbing immediately.
“Hi, Channing. Have you heard from Mari?” I quizzed while propping
the phone up so I could finish getting dressed.
“No, have you? Where are you going with that tight ass pencil skirt on?
It looks like you are suffocating my baby the way it's hugging your
stomach. Don’t make me whoop your ass, Britt.” He grilled me.
“Boy, BYE! I haven’t talked to Mari. Where I’m going is none of your
damn business, and your baby will be nonexistent come next week.” I
turned around and stuck my tongue out while twerking as I said that. He
was mad when I turned back around. His face was so balled up that it
looked like he might pop a blood vessel.
“Calm down, Channing. There’s no need for you to be angry when my
decisions are strongly influenced by what you’ve done,” I said to him,
“Britt, you know you don’t have to do this, right? I’d be there every step
of the way. I want my seed, yo. Especially with you,” he said, voice laced
with sorrow.
“Channing, I don’t want to rehash this right now. I’m good on the baby
for you. You’ve done enough damage; you think you are about to get this
fine ass body too?” I said as he glared at me through the phone. His face
was scrunched up, and I knew he was pissed, but so what? I was always on
the receiving end of his bullshit.
“I’ll call you later, Britt.” And just like that, he hung up.
What Channing doesn’t know is that I might actually be keeping the
baby. The first thing I did when I came out here was find a doctor. I was
now pushing twelve weeks of pregnancy. I want to tell Mari before I make
such a big and permanent decision, and I also wanted her to be present
when I got my abortion done. I told Channing I wanted him there, but I
knew how that was going to go. I know that after twenty weeks, I can no
longer have an abortion, so time was ticking. I have a little pudge now and
that was Channing was looking at when I was getting dressed.
I can’t stand him. I know my child would be loved but I would be tied
to Channing for 18 years and beyond. I said beyond because no matter what
anyone says, having a child with someone ties you to them for life. I’m not
about to make my baby's life awkward because her parents couldn’t get
along. We will have to see each other for graduations, when my baby has
babies, important milestones after 18, and all of those things. I know that,
so I have to choose my child’s father wisely. Channing was loving, kind,
sweet, and charming, but only when he wanted to be. So, I had to pass on
that.
I finally got my look together and exited the building I was staying at. I
loved the sun and down-to-earth feel of California. This place was more
than I could ever ask for. Everything was within walking distance. They
have boutiques everywhere. Everybody knows Britt loves the weed, so I
could smell it in the air. I couldn’t get enough of this feeling. Relaxed.
As I walked to the cafe that I was meeting my client at, I noticed a man
walking toward me. He looked so good in this two-piece navy blue suit. It
looked like it was tailored to the gods to fit his body. His chocolate skin
glistened in the morning sun as if he’d just rubbed the right amount of baby
oil all over his body. His slanted eyes gave him a little bit of an edgy look. I
missed a man's touch, so I had to cross my legs to control my yoni. He had
tattoos going up his neck on the left side, so I knew he knew what he was
doing with the dick. I finally broke my stare and kept walking to the cafe. I
didn't think he would be interested in a pregnant woman, so I was going to
kept it pushing to spare my feelings.
I finally made it to the cafe about seven minutes late and took a seat. I
had to make sure I arrived earlier than my clients so I could get set up and
make sure all my plans were top tier. This was my first big client. He was
an Instagram influencer and could really get my name out there if my work
met his expectations. I’d probably get very busy, another reason why I
wanted to get an abortion, but I understand that life throws you curveballs.
As my mom always said, “If life gives you lemons, you go out there and
make yourself some lemonade.” If it’s one thing for certain, I can turn a
flop into a masterpiece, as long as I have the right budget.
Thankfully, Kareem had an unlimited budget and gave me total creative
flow over the entire office space he is getting designed for his sneaker store.
This would be our first meeting and I am excited. We had been exchanging
ideas through Instagram DM and getting contracts together through email
but never in person. I finally told him that this process would be much
easier if I could see him so he could feel fabrics and match swatches with
me for the space, and he agreed.
I had been sitting here for about twenty minutes, so I ordered a small
cup of blueberry tea to pass the time. I heard the door open but continued
looking at my papers to make sure everything was everything, and I heard
someone clear their throat.
I looked up and it was that fine man from earlier. What a damn
coincidence. This job just got interesting and so did California.
I love it even more now, I thought to myself.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 15
AMARI
TWO WEEKS LATER…

The Past is Back.

IT’S BEEN about a month since I’ve been in Mexico, and this was the
best decision I could have made. I didn’t want to bleed my already open
wounds on anyone else. It’s hard battling with your mental issues. I love my
family too much to let them watch my suffering.
The things I overheard that night were on repeat in my head for weeks.
My best friend and brother. The two people I was closest to. Problems seem
never-ending to me.
I climbed off the seat on the island in this beautiful villa. I had just eaten
breakfast, so it was time to take my meds.
The villa was breathtaking. I took in the sight every time I made my
way to my room. As you entered the door, you walked directly into the
living room that had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the beach. The
decor of the villa was tropical and warm. The kitchen was so big it could fit
my family and everyone else’s in it comfortably. The bathroom was my
favorite part. It had no real walls. You were taking a bath outdoors with
only a wooden makeshift wall blocking you from the rest of the world. It
had trees, plants, and flowers hanging everywhere with a waterfall running
down the wooden wall. I loved this vacation spot. I knew I would be back
in the future.
I spent most of my time lounging around and journaling. I had been
contemplating if I wanted to start writing a book. For a long time, I have
always had ideas that ran wild in my head, and I feel like writing a book
would help me settle down and find me an outlet, but I haven’t decided
quite yet if I was going to do it.
Finally, I found my medication after rummaging through my purse. I
grabbed the bottle of water I kept on the nightstand and downed my pills. It
was my first time being away from home by myself for a long period
besides my stint in the psych ward, but that still wasn’t this long. I was
proud of myself for taking care of important things. My mental health.
People take for granted being mentally sane so much.
I went out to find Blitz, who was standing by the main entrance because
I needed an update on my family, and I knew he stayed in contact with them
whether I wanted him to or not.
“Hey, Blitz,” I said. “How’s it going? Are you alright? I know I’ve had
you out here for a long time.”
“Sup, Mari. I’m good. This has been a nice little vacation for me. So, I
can’t complain. I’ve never been out of the country before, and I could get
used to this. Maybe I should start spending more of that money your dad is
paying me,” he stated with a chuckle.
“How have they been? I know you talked to them because there's no
way they haven’t come to find me yet,” I said with pursed lips.
Chuckling Blitz gave me the rundown on everyone, ending with
Channing’s dramatic ass. “Channing’s worried sick about you, Mari. I told
him you were safe, and I always have eyes on you, but he just doesn’t
listen.”
“He was saying how he was going to come hunt you down and drag you
back to the estate.”
“Yeah, that’s probably not going to happen. I've actually been looking
for places since I’ve been out here. It’s time for me to get my life together
and see what I plan to do for the rest of it. You know? I love my family, but
I just can’t anymore,” I said sadly.
“I understand.” was all Blitz offered on the revelation I was having.
I went back to my room to change because I wanted to go grab a bite to
eat down at the resort’s restaurant and walk the beach a little. As I
approached the door, I yelled out to Blitz, “I’ll be back in about an hour or
two. I’m about to get some food down at the restaurant and walk the beach
for a bit.”
“Bet. I’ll be about five minutes behind you. Do you have your panic
button? You don’t have a phone, so I need that on you at all times, Mari?”
he quizzed.
“Yes, Blitz, I have it,” I said with an eye roll and sucking my teeth.
I walked out of the villa and down the breezeway taking in all the
visitors at the resort. I have seen families, girls' trips, honeymooners, and
single people mixing and mingling for a month now. A couple caught my
eye as I entered the restaurant. She looked so happy to be here with her
man. If only I could get that same feeling from a man. Ugh… life!
The hostess approached the host stand, “How many will be in your
party?”
“Just one,” I explained.
She gathered my menu and silverware and headed to a booth in the
back. I slid into the booth she motioned to and had a great view of the
couple I had noticed while I was at the door. She was laughing at him with
love in her eyes. I trailed her line of sight to the man she was with, and my
mouth dropped.
There was no way that he was here. I know I haven’t seen him in four
years, but he must have forgotten how he left me.
Rocco.
I don’t know what took over me, but I know my feet were moving, and
my mind was just catching up as I stood by the table he occupied with his
woman.
I cleared my throat, “Hey, Rocco. How have you been?” I asked with a
hint of sarcasm.
He looked up at me like he’d seen a ghost.
“Long time no see, Mari. I’m good. How have you been?” he said after
fixing his face quickly.
“Yeah, you're right about that. Who do we have here?” I motioned to the
woman sitting across from him.
“This is my fiancé, Givonnia. Givonnia, this is Amari, one of my friends
from way back,” he stated.
I scuffed at his introduction because we were more than friends. He was
the closest thing that I had ever had to a boyfriend. He knew everything
about me down to my underwear size, and he’s sitting here like he didn’t
just walk away from everything we shared.
I was disgusted with myself and the situation at hand, so I just looked at
him and walked back to my table. Thank god I was legal because I needed a
whole drink after seeing his face four years later.
 I flagged the waitress down and ordered the best white house wine full
bottle that they had and my entree. I really lost my appetite, but I couldn’t
let him or her see me sweat. I felt a pair of eyes on me but tried my best to
ignore them. This has been a well-deserved vacation and Rocco was not
about to ruin it.
The waitress finally came out and poured my glass before setting the
Valle de Guadalupe wine bottle down on the table in a tub of ice. I downed
that first glass and poured another. I could still feel his eyes on me, but I
refused to give him the satisfaction. He could kiss my round plump ass
because he really had me fucked up.
Rocco used to be like an errand boy, I’d say, for my Padre. He came
around, and my Padre also had him watching over me in a sense too. He
would escort me to parties, make sure I was safe, take me to the mall, and
all the things. You get it, right? We spent so much time together. It was on
my sixteenth birthday when our relationship seemed to change and move to
a more romantic/platonic relationship. I could always feel the attraction we
had to one another, but we never crossed that line because he worked for
my Padre, but we could have. I’m just thankful I never did. As I sat at the
table swirling my wine in my glass, I drifted off into my memories.
“Rocco, I’m ready to go,” I yelled down the stairs of the front door. He
was out by the truck waiting for me. His ass knows he was fine. Rocco stood
about 6’5”, 250 pounds of solid muscles. He kept his hair braided in
cornrows that were down his mid-back. His skin was kissed by the sun. It
held a mocha hue that looked delicious as the sun bounced off of his open-
face grill as he smiled at me.
I missed him. He’s been away for about two weeks on one of my Padre’s
secret missions that I don't know anything about. He always seems to be
working so hard to stay in good graces with my Padre.
“Come on, Mari Bear. I’m ready,” he said as I got closer to the SUV. He
licked his lips and held the door open for me to climb into the back.
“What have you been up to, bear since I've been gone? I know you
missed a nigga like me,” he said as he popped his collar.
I rolled my eyes, “Na, not really. My boyfriend has been keeping me
company while you were away,” I said through my giggles.
“Amari, stop playing with me,” he said, looking through the rearview
mirror. I threw my head back and laughed. He could be so jealous at times,
and we weren’t even dating.
 “You sure you didn’t miss me, Rocco?” I said while licking my lips. He
watched me intensely. “Eyes on the road, Rocco. I want to make it to my
destination alive.” I laughed.
“You got it, Mari Bear. Stop playing with a nigga though, because you
gone get enough of teasing me,” Rocco said through his teeth.
“Nigga, you get pussy from everywhere, so I can’t be too much of a
tease. I see how them hoes be texting your phone. Don’t play with me,
Rocco,” I said through gritted teeth. My mood always switched so fast. It
was crazy.
“Calm down, Baby Ali. I’m just messing with you. I did miss you
though, baby.”
“Yeah, I hear you Rocco. Pull over. I want to feel you,” I said
seductively.
He pulled over and climbed in the back seat. Our lips instantly
connected, making me melt into his embrace. I missed those lips.
Rocco knew sex was out of the question for me though because of Padre
dearest, so what’s the next best thing? Rocco’s fingers. Oh, and tongue. He
was a beast with both.
Slipping his hand between my thighs as he kissed me passionately had
me in euphoria. I missed this. He slowly inched his hand up my dress and
used his thumb to circle my clit. I was ready for him. Slowly, his index and
ring finger entered my soaked mound and began moving at a steady pace.
My head flew back, and loud moans filled the car. He slowly licked up my
neck until his mouth was beside my ear, nibbling at it.
“That feels so good, Roc. Right there, baby. I missed you. Right there,
baby. Keep going,” I said in pure bliss.
“Right there? Or right there?” he asked as he watched me go through a
series of fuck faces. He loved watching me and what he did to my body. I
couldn’t even get a word out to answer him. He just didn’t know it, but I
wanted to fuck more than his fingers, and I was going to get what I wanted
soon. I’d seen his dick a handful of times, but each time it took my breath
away. It was about nine inches long with a hard curve. It was about as thick
as two half-dollars put together. I couldn’t wait for him to feel me up.
As I thought about how amazing his dick would feel, I felt my stomach
muscles tighten, and I hit my peak while riding his fingers. He was so nasty
because after I finished cumming, he sucked every drop off his fingers.
 “Get yo’ nasty ass up, Rocco!” I laughed. He knew it was time we kept
moving before my Padre started tracking this not-moving vehicle.
“I’m going let yo’ cute ass slide on the back talking you doing, You
think you got balls since you ain't seen me in a few days, but I’m about to
show you who daddy is come next week.” He looked at me through the
rearview mirror again and winked.
Rocco and I had been joined at the hip for months now since my Padre
put him on my detail, and I couldn’t have been happier. I know he wasn’t
just into me like that, but he made time pass. We build a bond. A friendship.
I can even say I love him, honestly. That’s how much I felt for him. It was
like he knew me before now.
We finish each other's sentences. He knew a lot of my favorites and I
just loved him and how he was so attentive. Rocco was everything.
Then he wasn’t. Right before my eighteenth birthday, Rocco walked out
of my family’s compound front door, and I never saw him again. I didn’t
know what happened to him. I vowed to myself if I ever ran across him
again, I would confront him for leaving me high and dry but after seeing
him with her, I knew it was pointless. Clearly, what we had meant nothing
to him, and I wasn’t about to make a fool of myself over a man that was
never mine to begin with.
I peered over to their table, and he looked dead in my eyes.
“I’m sorry,” were the words he said, but I couldn’t accept that, and I
wouldn’t. I stood up, laid three big ones on the table, and exited the
restaurant after telling the hostess to send my food to my villa. Tonight was
too much for me.
“I’m too damn crazy for this shit,” I mumbled to myself. He just woke
up the wrong side of my crazy too. I feel played. Four years of thinking his
hoe ass was dead. Yeah, he ‘fina have to feel me.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 16
ROCCO “ROC” GERMAN
I MISS YOU.

I NEVER THOUGHT I’d see her again. What we shared was different.
It was intense and fun. We meshed together so well. I wish she wasn’t a
pawn in someone else’s scheme though. She was never supposed to run
across me again. I know y’all probably thinking, this bitch ass nigga
walking around just fucking with people's hearts, but it was never supposed
to go that far with us. Truth be told, I fell madly in love with Mari. That was
my baby. I loved watching her grow and glow. Her beauty was undeniable. I
loved watching her curvy, voluptuous body feel out and her owning herself
as a woman. She knew it too and I was sprung off just by the taste of her.
Amari Moody was only sixteen when I met her. I actually was sent in by
one of Moody’s rivals to get intel on the drug game her Padre ran with an
iron fist. I just could never get close enough. I felt like her Padre knew off
the rip. I wasn't part of the team, but he put me in a position to take care of
his most prized possession. I remember the first day he assigned me to her
detail.
“Rocco, that’s my world you are looking after. If you hurt her, you’ll
have to deal with me after you deal with her. She doesn’t know all my mafia
business, but I made sure she knew how to protect herself,” he said
nonchalantly.
I surveyed his face as he looked me into my eyes. I knew he wasn’t one
to play with, but everyone has to make money in some kind of way and my
face has never been seen around here since I just moved from the West
Keys about three months ago. Homie told me that this would be a simple
intel and I could get it done in under one month. He wanted to know their
hierarchy, where their stash spots were, and the ports where they received
their shipments. I knew it wouldn’t be an easy task, but every group has a
bitch nigga ready to sing like a fucking canary, and I was going to be all
ears.
Amari was collateral damage by the end of everything. I still didn’t get
all the answers to my big homie's questions, but I got enough and got out of
dodge before I ended up dead because Bozzak was starting to get
suspicious. He caught me on the phone one day and asked me who I was
talking to. About three days later, I was finally pulled off intel and
disappeared on Amari, hoping to never see her again.
I did keep up with her on social media here and there because my love
didn’t vanish overnight for her. I miss her every day and I still think about
her sometimes. It slowed down some when I met my now fiancé, Givonnia.
I guess you could consider her my second love in life. I can for sure say
Amari was my first, just like I was hers. Our bond was deeper than surface
level. I’d never penetrated her physically, but I had her mentally, and that’s
what made it even better. The way she looked at me back at that restaurant
made my heart ache. I never realized how much hurt I caused her until this
very day. In so many ways, she was my best friend those months I was with
her. Mari’s eyes told it all as she stood in front of that table and asked me
how I was.
“I can’t believe…” I mumbled to myself.
“You can’t believe what, Rocco?” Givonnia said.
“Nothing, Givonnia. Let’s just try to enjoy the rest of our night. She
meant nothing to me, and I mean that. I used to work with her about four
years ago. She liked me and I couldn’t go there with her,” I half-lied.
“Yeah whatever, Rocco. This was supposed to be a nice getaway and
you got bitches coming out of the woodwork. I just can’t with yo’ hoe ass.
I’m sick of you!” she yelled while walking ahead of me to the room.
I let her because, truthfully, I wanted to find Mari again. I know I
shouldn’t be playing with fire like this, but closure was something that I
needed. I needed to know she was okay without me. Even though I know
she was. I just wanted to talk to her.
I watched Givonnia disappear around the corner. I turned and headed
toward the beach after realizing she’d entered our suite. I needed time to
think about my next move because Mari just threw me off my square and
bad, homie.
OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 17
AMARI MOODY
LAY IT ALL OUT THERE.

NOBODY KNEW. Nobody knows now. That man I just saw in that
restaurant took my sanity when he walked out of that door without an
explanation. I went down a rabbit hole for so many nights wondering what I
could have done wrong. He was supposed to be my first everything.
Rocco was my first kiss.
My first orgasm.
My first love.
My first heartbreak.
Rocco could go straight to hell with gasoline draws on, and I wouldn’t
give two fucks. He looked at me like I was a ghost when he was the one
that ghosted me. Now, I was on the beach with my fourth drink and tears
streaming down my face as I walked.
This was hard to process because, for so many years, I thought he was
dead. So, I grieved for a man who just skipped town on me. I scuffed.
Trifling ass nigga. I envisioned my whole life with Rocco.
I feel like he was partly to blame for my mental break the night of prom.
I tried to resume regular life after he left, but I feel like my heartache
triggered my first episode all those years ago.
He sent me spiraling and was nowhere to catch me.
I hate that man with every fiber of my being. I just wish I could tell him
that. I have to get out of this damn resort before I flip out. That’s the last
thing I need to be doing in Mexico.
I continued down the beach, letting my mind wander to the what ifs. I
can’t deny that Rocco looked good, and his fiancé was gorgeous, but that
was supposed to be me. He knew that was supposed to be me. I was
walking with my head down and I bumped right into a hard body and fell
on my ass.
“Arghhhhh! I’m sorry, I wasn’t watching where I was going,” I said in
an apologetic voice.
“It’s cool, Mari Bear. I was hoping to see you again,” Rocco said with a
smile.
I cut my eyes at this fool because he just didn't know, I got him this
time. I’m about to show my entire ass.
Hold your composure, Amari Moody.
“Now, how did you want to see me again when you spent four years not
looking at my face? Huh? You didn’t bother to text or call to let me know
you were alive. You left me. You left me to navigate falling outta love with
you cold turkey, ROCCO!
I hate you, Rocco. You may want to see me again, but I damn sure don’t
want to be bothered with you. I was head over hills for your stupid ass, but
look who turned out to be the fool, in a literal sense too,” I said calmly,
which surprised the hell out of me.
I was livid.
“I lost it after you left me. I tried to unalive myself because I couldn’t
figure out why. You were my first everything. You meant so much to me. I
thought we were going to grow old together, all of it. We talked about it,
and you disappeared on me.” I steadied my breathing. “At least I didn’t give
you my virginity because that would have crushed me more.”
We locked eyes for what seemed like forever. I knew he was sorry, but
sorry wasn’t enough for me. I wasn’t giving him the satisfaction of knowing
I was literally crazy. I turned around and walked the other way while
wiping my tears away.
He called after me.
I stopped me in my tracks, but I couldn’t turn around. I wouldn’t. He
was not about to see the tears cascading down my face. My pride was just
too much at times.
“For what it's worth, I love you. I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you
like this.”
I walked away and never looked back until I reached my room.
I needed to relax so I soaked in the freestanding tub in the middle of the
bathroom. I made sure the temperature of the water was on hell just like I
liked it, and slipped my clothes off. They fell to the floor in a pool around
my feet and I stepped out of them. I grabbed my bathing towel and slid my
body into the tub to submerge my aching heart. Who would have thought he
could open that wound in my heart back up? Rocco fucking German.
He wasn’t there when I needed him the most. He disappeared on me,
and I went through the ringer after what happened to me. My mental
diseases plagued me daily and he wasn’t there. He’s getting married. I bet
he has kids too. I guess that's what I needed to see so I could stop holding
on to him. He has moved on so it’s time I do the same.
The bath had me relaxed and ready for another smoke from my stash. I
had been cheifin’ since I got here and the balcony had seemed to become
my best friend. As I walked out the bathroom, I grabbed my robe off the
back of the room door. If these villas were just a little further apart, I would
walk out there in my birthday suit.
I said I wanted freedom, but I knew I had to act within reason.
I walked on the balcony, took a seat and got comfortable while lighting
my blunt. “Aye, bruh, I’ll call you back later. I’m safe. That’s all that
matters, Pops.” The strong, sexy baritone voice was coming from the villa
to the left of me. I tried to mind my business but before I could puff a
second time on my blunt, a phone was being tossed hard as fuck across the
sea.
“What the hell? You okay over there?” I yelled while leaning over the
balcony railing.
“Yeah, I’m straight, shawty. Mind yo’ fucking business.” His voice
echoed across the empty water.
“Who the fuck you talking to like that? I was just trying to make sure
your bitch ass wasn’t gone throw your damn self over the railing next. Sorry
for being a concerned citizen, asshole!” I barked.
“Yo, who you talking to, little ass girl?” the sexy voice man said but this
time he leaned forward.
“OHHHHHHH, LORDDD! Domonick, it’s you again. Did you follow
me here? What are you doing here?” I quizzed looking at him skeptically,
“Golden… Is that yo’ fine ass? I’m about to come over there; ain’t
nobody following yo’ ass but I surely happy to see you. What’s your villa
number? ” Dom asked.
Should I let him come through? I thought to myself.
“You can come over, but it won’t be any extra shit going on,” I stated
firmly.
 “Cool, I just wanna vibe anyway tonight. What’s the number?” Dom
quizzed again.
Against my better judgement, “386,” rolled off my lips.
“Bet, I’ll be over there in a second,” he said and walked off.
I quickly ran in the room and did a once over in the long mirror on the
closet door. There was a knock at the door, and it startled me a little.
“Who is it?” I asked like I didn’t already know.
“Slaughta, Baby. Open up,” his baritone voice smoothly said behind the
door.
“Hey, smart mouth motherfucka,” I said with a hint of sarcasm while
flashing him a smile.
“You funny. Yo’ watch out,” Dom said while moving me to the side
while chuckling.
“What you got going on in here?” Dom said while walking over to my
rolling tray sitting on the end of the dresser in the suite. “Fire one up for
us,” he cooly said.
I yelled out, “Alexa, play 90s R&B.” She began playing “Don’t Leave
Me” by Blackstreet. I love this song. What took the cake was when Dom
started singing and it actually sounded good.
“Okayyyyy. Look at you,” I said while he two stepped his way toward
me. I couldn’t take my eyes off him as he neared me.
Then there it was. Domonick’s hands grabbed my waist, as we swayed
side to side. The feeling of his hands on my hips felt right, like they belong
there. This moment was perfect. I knew he was going to be trouble after
that.
“What do you want with me, Domonick?” I let my thoughts wander.
As if he read my mind, “I just wanna spend the rest of my night with
you,” Dom’s voice rattled in his chest as he spoke, making my cheeks
vibrate while they were pressed again him.
We stayed like that until the song ended. Eventually, we ended up on the
balcony, and we chopped it up for a while.
“What are you doing out here, Golden?” Dom asked.
“I came out here to clear my mind and get some much needed peace
before the storm. I have responsibilities back home that I have to tend to
and it’s going to be a hard one,” I said.
I can’t believe I lied to him about my name. It has been weird all night
being called another woman’s name but it was my own fault.
 “I guess that’s understandable because I’m out here for the same
reason,” he stated somberly.
“Let’s not think about that until morning, alright? Let’s go inside and
watch a movie or something,” I suggested to him.
“Bet,” Dom replied. We walked into the suite and I grabbed a blanket
while he went and sat on the couch.
“I hope you like romantic movies because we’re watching “The
Notebook,” I said with excitement.
“It’s your world, I’m just living in it, Bellissima,” he replied as he began
to stretch and yawn.
I climbed on the couch and curled up next to him. And before I knew,
The Notebook was watching us.
A knock at the room door eventually woke me up, “Your Padre said it
was important for you to get back in town. He needs to speak with you,”
Blitz said sternly before he headed back in.
After hearing that, I hopped up off the couch and woke Dom up. It was
nice being next to him but this would have to pause until I figured my shit
out.
“Wake up, Dom. I have to go. My Padre is asking for my presence back
home. It’s important, I assume,” I voiced with a little concern laced into my
voice.
“Can we at least keep in touch?” He asked.
“If you can figure out my number, we sure can. See you around, Dom.
Thanks for spending time with me yesterday,” I said as I kissed him on the
cheek and told him to let himself out.
I got dressed in record time, and we headed off to the airstrip. My
Padre’s private jet awaited us to take us back to St. Emerald Island. This trip
would be about six hours, so I decided to take a nap before landing.
“Blitz, do you know what my Padre wants to speak about?” I
questioned. “I was enjoying my vacation, and he just ended it abruptly.”
“No, girl, I have no idea what this is about. He just called while I was
knee-deep in some p…” he started saying before I yelled loudly.
“Too much information, Blitz. Wayy too muchhh,” I said while he
chuckled at my dramatic antics.
“This better be fucking important. I swear. I’m sick of them.” I sighed
loudly. “I’m about to lie down before the flight ends.”
___________________
 As we pulled up to the compound, I noticed that my whole family was
here. It was a little past eleven p.m. when we arrived. Truthfully, this was
the last place I wanted to be, but here I was because my Padre sent out
smoke signals for me to make my way back home.
“Blitz, I’m about to head inside,” I said as I grabbed the door handle.
We had been sitting out here for about twenty minutes while I got my
thoughts together because I knew they were going to be on one when they
laid eyes on me. It has been a month and some change since they last saw
me or heard my voice.
I opened the door and headed to the two front iron double doors that
enclosed the house’s contents. I reached out to touch the doorknob, but it
swung open before I could.
“Awwwww, Cali, my baby’s home,” my Mami yelled to Padre.
She pulled me into her embrace, and I must say it felt nice to be in the
arms of my mami after such a shock while being in Mexico. She kissed
both of my cheeks and looked me in my eyes. I could tell she had been
worried sick about me because Mrs. Alikay had grown small bags under her
eyes.
“Hi, Mami. I missed you,” I said while hugging her again.
“I missed you too, baby girl,” she said. The next thing I knew, mami
picked her hand up and popped me on my arm.
“Don’t you ever leave this damn house without letting me know where
you’re going! I don’t give a damn who you call yourself being tired of, but
you had me worried sick. If you let this happen again, I will hunt you down,
and I swear before the God I love, you will have a well-whooped behind
when I am done with you,” Mami fussed.
“Oww, mami… you didn’t have to hit me,” I fussed after she finished
her rant.
She raised her hand up to hit me again, but I yelled for Padre before she
could. “Padre! Mami’s being mean to me!” I stuck my tongue out at her,
and she popped me anyway in the same spot.
Padre appeared from around the corner. “Baby girl, I missed you. I hope
your time away was well deserved. Now, let's get down to business. Follow
me to my office.”
He said his office. I don’t go there unless he wants me to do some kind
of training or update me on things that may affect my well-being. I rolled
my eyes because I knew I wouldn’t be in the mood for what he had to say,
but he was my Padre, so I followed right behind him. We reached his office
door and walked in.
My Padre’s office was decked out to the fullest. He had a wet bar in the
far-right corner as you walked in. He had an eighty-five-inch flat-screen TV
in the left corner over the fireplace that sat on the left wall as you walked in.
His desk was placed directly in the center of the room. It was made out of
real oak and had carvings of our families in it. The back wall operates as a
bookcase from one end of the wall to the other. It was floor-to-ceiling
access as well. He also had two chairs that sat directly in front of his desk
and a set of five chairs that sat next to his wet bar like a lounging area.
Padre had climbed into his desk chair and motioned for me to sit down in
one of the chairs in front of his desk. This conversation must be serious
because he wanted to get right to it.
“Baby girl, I love you with every fiber of my being. You know that,
right?” I nodded to answer his question and he continued. “I have to go
ahead and get straight to the point. The Association, as you know, was
started by our family years ago and in order to keep us running properly
everyone has to make sacrifices for the betterment of the association. I have
come to an agreement with the Rivera family that will give more order to
this place and continue our growth into more generational wealth,” he went
on to say.
“Alright, Padre, what does this have to do with me?” I quizzed with a
hint of irritation in my voice.
“Well, there is no easy way to say that, but you will be getting married
in about a month to Rivera's middle son, Domonick,” he said.
My mouth fell open, I went to speak but no words came out. I was
flabbergasted by this move here.
“What do you mean married, Padre?” I asked with a puzzled look on
my face.
“This will be a real marriage that joins two wealthy families together,
baby girl. This will help with some things that have transpired behind the
scenes,” he said.
I instantly became furious.
“So, what you’re saying to me is that you went and offered my hand in
marriage to settle a debt and get more money? Really, Padre? This is
unbelievable. What in the entire fuck, Padre? I haven’t even had a real
boyfriend yet, and you want me to go out and get a damn husband? Does
that make sense? I know nothing about being a wife. Then you want me to
marry a person I know absolutely nothing about. You gotta be kidding me,”
I said in utter disbelief.
“Baby girl, I know this is unconventional, but it has been done for
centuries, and honestly, it hits closer to home than you think,” he explained.
I still didn’t have anything to say. I thanked the Lord that I took my
medication because these folks were about to send me into another episode.
I honestly didn’t have anything to say, so I politely got up out of my
Padre’s office chair and dipped. I am not staying here now or ever again.
This family has really shown me what's most important to them.
Money and nothing else matter.
“Blitz, take me to get a phone and to check into the nearest hotel. I
won’t be coming back here,” I explained.
I’m ready to get away from them.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 18
DOMONICK “SLAUGTHA”
THREE WEEKS LATER

THIS WILL BE our first time meeting. I’m not even sure what to expect
from this. I have been thrust into this bullshit, and I want nothing more than
to kill my brother for putting our family into this situation. On top of all
that, he had been texting and calling like he didn’t just ruin my life. I may
have knew I could be a one-woman man, but I wasn’t looking to settle
down and do that right now.
I had been at home preparing for this day. I was dressed to the Gods. I
had on my custom-fitted Tom Ford suit and my diamond-encrusted Tom
Ford loafers. I topped my outfit off with my diamond cross pendant and my
Rolex. I went and looked myself over in the mirror. I only hope this girl was
just as fine.
I grabbed my keys and decided to go classic today. I was driving my all-
white Rolls Royce. My pops gave me this as a gift for my eighteenth
birthday and I cherished it. I went back in the house to make sure all my
doors and windows were secured and went back out to the car. I backed out
of the garage and closed it before speeding to the lawyer’s office. I was
running late, but who cares? I didn’t want to be there in the first place.
My phone began to ring, and it was Jasmine.
“What’s up, shawty? What you ‘fina get into?” I quizzed.
“Oh nothing. I was hoping you’d come slide through for a few minutes.
I miss you,” Jasmine purred.
That shit made my dick jump. “I’ll be there in like ten minutes, be ready
for me,” I stated and hung up.
I didn’t have much time, but I was about to get this quick nut in before
signing my life away. Only God knew if this marriage was going to work
out, but until then, I was going to play in what I wanted. I busted a quick
left and made a detour.
___________________
Finally I pulled up to the office building and made my way inside after
handing the valet driver my keys.
“Say fam, don’t fuck up my shit. That cost more than you’ll ever get
paid down here doing valet. That car is one of my pride and joys, and I get
bent out of shape about simple scratches, you hear me?” I quizzed.
He nodded, and I walked off into the building. It was a nice little setup.
I made it to the elevator and waited for it to arrive after hitting the up-arrow
button. It finally opened, and two women walked out giggling. I must
admit, both could get it if they knew how to act. I looked back at the
elevator and finally decided to load it. As I turned to press the button to the
twelfth floor, I noticed two women looking at me, so I flashed them that
panty-wetting smile and waved before the door closed.
The elevator went up floor by floor, and my heart started thumping the
closer I got to the twelfth floor. Shit, why am I so nervous? It’s just a
regular girl with a regular marriage, even though I don’t know her yet. I
stepped off the elevator and immediately left to access Jamison Bluet’s
office. He has been our attorney for years, probably even before then. He
was an older white man who was always about his dollar and how he could
win a case. Just the way the Rivera’s needed him to be.
I walked past the receptionist, Miss JoAnn’s, desk and headed to the
conference room. She knew who I was, so she just pointed in that direction.
I neared the door, and a sudden rush of electricity stopped me in my tracks.
I felt her again.
I shook off the feeling and decided that I was just tripping as I pushed
the conference room door open. Our eyes locked, and time stood still. What
was she doing here? And why on Earth is she sitting at the table with my
pops? I looked to her left, and there was her brother, so I knew I couldn’t
mistake her for anyone else. He held a stoked look on his face. I could tell
that he was not happy to see my face because his jaw tightened a bit as I
rounded the table and took a seat next to my pops.
“Hijo, how are you? Let’s get on with this. I would like you to meet
Amari, Channing, and Chaos. They will be family in about a week,” he said
with too much enthusiasm for me.
 My eyes were trained on her because did he just say her name was
Amari?
I could have sworn she told me Golden. This girl was going to be
something else. I could tell by the look in her eyes.
Jamison walked in and apologized for his tardiness. His conference call
ran over with another important client.
“So, are you guys ready to get down to business?” he said as he passed
out contacts to me, my pops, her Padre, and herself. “We will start by going
over the first section on page one. In summary, it reads you and Amari must
remain a unit and live under the same roof for five years, in which in the
third year of marriage, you will produce a child together,” he said while
looking over everyone’s face in the room. “Any objection? Shall I
continue?”
“Ummm, I would like to make it the fourth year of marriage, for
whatever reason, Mr… uhh, what’s your name again?” she asked.
I smirked. “Domonick, sweetheart.”
“If Mr. Domonick turns out to be an asshole, then I would like my child
to be traumatized for a shortened period so that all ties with him will be cut
at the mere age of one for the child. Can that be added?” she stated with
confidence. She didn’t come to play today. I mean, it is her life, and she’s
already being forced into a marriage with me.
I spoke after what seemed like an uncomfortable silence. “Give her
what she wants.” Jamison nodded and jotted down the changes.
“Ok, section two. You both will be stepping up in your second year of
marriage to run your respectful spots in the Association, which is now
turning into a five-family organization, with the Rivera Cartel being the
fifth and final family. You both will undergo extensive training to make this
a smooth transition. If either of you refuse to do so, then the marriage will
be null and void as well as the partnership. You both have to take your spots
or neither of you will, understood?” We both nodded. Not knowing that our
life will be thrust into the Association after this marriage.
“Final section.. section three will address housing and marriage
arrangements. In this section, both of you will start shopping for homes
together to not only get to know each other but to get in accord with
housing preferences. You both will be moving into the house next week to
get acquainted with each other even more. If either of you are suspected of
infidelities, you will be allowed to decide if your marriage will be dissolved
appropriately. If either party violates this part of the contract, you will
automatically forfeit your seat in the Association,” Jamison said.
“Do either of you have any questions?” he asked.
“So, we are here to go over the contract and negotiate as we see fit. Do
you have any requests, hijo? ” Pops asked.
“Yeah, I’m unsure if you want your Padre and brother to hear this
request. It’s personal.”
“I have something. The last clause I want to be changed. I know I won’t
be cheating on him, so leave me out of the infidelity part. If anything, he
will be the one that does it. I know that for a fact. I will not be punished or
made to seem like a whore because he may be on, and y’all want to save
face,” she said with her face scrunched up. I knew she was serious like
before. So, my hand went up.
“That’s cool. Give her what she wants because anyone that touches
something that’s mine won’t see the light of day anyway,” I said with a
smirk.
She looked at me and rolled her eyes.
“Pops, all I need her to know is when we finally make this official, she
won’t be going anywhere. It will always be us,” I said with a wink to
respond to Pop’s question.
“Ok, that settles it. Give me a few minutes, and I’ll get these revisions
done so that you both can sign before you leave. Good luck with your
marriage,” he stated before exiting the conference room.
She stood up and motioned for me to meet her outside the door. She was
a woman who knew what she wanted, and I liked that.
I was drawn to her, though. Not on no funny shit either. It's like I felt
her in my soul sometimes. It’s weird, but I walked out behind her, watching
her ass in the process. What I would give anything be where those pants
were right now.
“Yes?” I said after we walked a short distance from the conference
room.
“Are you ready for this? I know we both have baggage that may be
attached to us, but all I’m asking you for is honesty, loyalty, and respect
through it all. I can roll with the punches and get down with the best of
them, but don’t ever blindside me. That won’t be good for either of us.
Especially not you because I’m sure you ain’t into fucking around and
finding out, are you Mr. Domonick?” Amari said as we made our way out to
the courtyard. I couldn’t help but laugh at her crazy ass. I had to look away
from her because I knew I had some stuff I needed to figure out before this
wedding.
I grabbed her hand, and there was that shock again, just like when we
were in the Chanel store that day. “What you’re asking me is the bare
minimum that I could do since we are both forced into this. Do I want to be
married right now? No, but I will make the best of this? Yes. I know you're
uncomfortable, and things are weird, but I will try my best to make this
transition as smooth as possible. I won’t lie to you, though. I do have some
loose ends that I need to tie up, but none of them will stop what’s happening
between us,” I stated sternly but softly as I looked into her eyes.
We stared at each other for what seemed like forever.
“Alright, well, it's about time we head back in there. Are you ready?”
She nodded, and I grabbed her hand and led her back to the conference
room.
I pray this goes well because the last thing I want to do is ruin this. The
true question is, why do I want this to work so badly? I don’t even know
shawty, I thought.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 19
MARI
WE SHALL SEE.

LOOKING into those colored eyes and trying to believe what his mouth
was saying really was a struggle. I could see the glimmer of deception as
his eyes shifted to the fountain in the center of the courtyard. He glanced
away from me when he said he had a few loose ends to tight up, but I hope
he got it squared away before this wedding, or it wouldn’t be one. I don’t
play second or third to anyone because, quite frankly, I am the one. Never
the two.
If he wants to see something crazy, I could have some shit arranged for
him. He better realize sooner rather than later. I still couldn’t get used to
how breathtakingly beautiful he was, though. Those eyes got me Every.
Single. Time. Oh, that smile also. His smile with the slight dimple on his
left cheek was the cutest, but his aura wasn’t.
Rocco really did a number on my heart, and now, I’m about to get
married. I’m getting married to someone I know nothing about, not even his
shoe size, yet I felt so connected to him. The weirdest thing keeps
happening when we touch each other. It’s almost like a feeling is sent
through my body, and our eyes connect. It gives a sense of calmness and
peace almost. It’s scary because I know nothing about this man, but I feel
like he would protect me, no matter what it may cost us or him.
I have some things I have to handle on the family side of things, also.
As we all walked out of the attorney’s office after signing the agreement, I
climbed in the car with Blitz and decided to Facetime Britt. I haven’t talked
to her in about two months, and I would keep it that way if I didn’t want her
at my wedding.
She picked up on the second ring.
 “Hey, sissterrrr!” she sang.
I wanted to be excited to see her, but I knew my mood would only
worsen when I heard her voice. “Hey, Britt,” I said nonchalantly. “We need
to have a sit-down and discuss some things. Where are you?” I asked.
“Well, Little Miss Rudeness. I'm actually out of town right now. When I
get back that would be a better time for us to sit down and have a talk. I
have some things I need to tell you, also,” she explained.
“Ok, that’s fine. When will you be back in town? This conversation is
kind of important.” I said to kind of start us over without dryness in our
conversation.
“I’m so excited and ready to be back in town. I should be home in about
three days. I’m wrapping up my client out here in Cali. I’ll be on the first
thing smoking out of here,” she said excitedly.
“Don’t get too excited, friend. I still have to give you the rundown on
that also. I’ll see you in three days,” I said and hung up. I don’t want to get
too excited because this conversation can go one of two ways. Good or
terribly bad. Either way, it goes this conversation had to be had before I
could move on. I still can’t believe those two.
Blitz carried me back to my hotel room, where I decided that I was just
going to take a nap. These last few days have been emotionally exhausting,
and I just need to rest. “Thanks, Blitz. I’ll call you if I need anything,” I
said before climbing out of the car. I walked into the Ritz and straight to the
elevator. I guess there's no point in searching for an apartment now that I’m
moving with my soon-to-be hubby. So, I’ll just stay here until then. I
waltzed into the lobby and stopped at the receptionist's desk to grab a snack
and a few extra towels.
I grabbed my snack, and they instructed me that they would come up
shortly with my towels. I trickled to the elevator and went up to the fourth
floor. I turned right and made my way down the hall to my room. Room
423. It wasn’t an elaborate room, but it would do until I got to where I
needed to be. I scanned my access card and entered the room. After
ensuring the door was closed and secure, I immediately started stripping out
of my clothes. This weather in St. Emerald was half-ass backward. It was
about 65 degrees yesterday and 90 degrees today. It was so hot out there.
After stripping down, I made my way to the shower.
I probably should have eaten something, but I just wasn’t feeling it. I
was tired and in need of a fat blunt. I heard my phone ringing but decided
against answering it. I went on and turned the shower on; after checking the
temperature of the water, I stepped in. I heard my phone again, but they’ll
just have to wait today. I needed time to myself, and if they weren’t rolling
up, then yeah, we can’t really talk about much. As I was washing my body
off, I realized I hadn’t taken my medication since I left Mexico about three
weeks ago.
“Shit!” I mumbled to myself. That explains why I am in such -up-and-
down moods. I gotta take it when I get out of here. I can’t just blame it all
on my illness, though. Everyone around here has been keeping secrets. It’s
as true as the saying goes, “People lie to those they love and tell the truth to
those they don’t care about, no matter whose heart is broken in the end, they
loved themselves more than you to begin with.” That saying has not been
truer than at this time, and I have a feeling in the pit of my stomach that this
arranged marriage is about to shake some things up, feelings included.
I finally hopped out of the shower and went straight to my purse. I knew
I dropped them off in it before heading on the plane. I grabbed it off the bed
and found what I was looking for. Hopefully, it’s not too far out of my
system right now. I know that will make the next few weeks hell for
everyone. The sad part about it is I don’t remember much about my
episodes. I wish I could for the life of me remember it but only bits and
pieces come back to me when I think about it. I located my water, popped it
in my mouth, and gulped the water down. I finally placed my robe on my
body and lit a blunt before leaving. There was no way I could deal with this
mess my brother and best friend had great behind my back. It’s really the
principle.
Why hide it? This isn’t high school. What could I have said about them
being together? No, y'all can’t be together, that’s weird. I want the respect
and trust to know that they wouldn’t sneak me. I’m sure my brother was the
one that wanted to keep it a secret with his mannish ass. He just can’t act
right for shit. Then to break my best friend's heart on top of that. I love him
because he’s my brother, but he just ain’t no fucking good. He has extreme
potential to make an amazing husband one day, but gosh, he has some
growing up to do– a lot.
I went onto the balcony after grabbing a pre-rolled phatty out of my
bag. The night air was coming in, and I was ready to get this dinner over
with so I could leave the situation. I was about to get married and didn’t
need the extra stress of dealing with those two. They better hope I can
change Brit’s mind about this baby, or so help me god, I will never talk to
either of them again. They are both making selfish decisions, and it affects
more than just them. I want to be an aunt. Hell, it was really time because I
need to start practicing for my little rugrats, and Channing needs to sit his
ass down. I lit the blunt, took about four good pulls on it and put it out in
the ashtray.
I walked back into the room and heard a soft knock on my door. I know
that I didn’t tell anyone I was staying here, not even Britt, so who could that
be? I went to my purse, pulled my small compact .38 out of it, and slowly
walked to the door. I looked through the peephole and slowly sighed.
I swung the door open, “Why are you here, and how do you know
where I am staying?”
He looked at me with low red eyes and a small smirk. “I just came to
check on you. When we ran into each other in Mexico, I thought maybe it
was meant to be. Just maybe you missed me as much as I missed you.”
I was already annoyed, but I cannot believe this nigga just blew my high
like that. “Rocco, I may be a little special sometimes, but what in your mind
thought that I wanted to be with you? Better yet, that I missed you?” I
sassed. “Tell me how you found me?”
“I have my resources, love. Just know you’ve never been too far away
from me,” he spoke as he gazed at me. “Just because we weren’t together
doesn't mean I didn’t keep up with you. I miss you, Mari Bear. I miss us.”
“Yeah, that’s not my problem,” I said, stepping out of his grasp. We had
fully walked into my suite at this point, so I decided to head back to the
balcony. If he was on some funny shit, I needed people to see because I
didn’t trust his ass. I picked up my blunt and sparked it again. This time, I
took long pulls because he was really getting on my nerves. He tried to hit
the blunt, but I shook my head.
“No, bruh. I don’t know where your lips have been.” He looked at me
like I had grown two heads. He didn’t know this Mari. He didn’t see my
change. He didn’t see my heartache, so now he would just have to deal with
it. My phone chimed in the center of the bed. I glanced at the clock on the
nightstand, and the clock read 10:50 PM. I was ready for bed and couldn’t
wait to go.
I walked to my phone. “When are you leaving? I’m ready for bed.”
“I’m not. I figured we could have a sleepover and catch up.” If he could
see the look on my face, he would close his mouth. I finally got to my
phone and opened the message that popped up.
414-769-0234: You have 10 seconds to get that goofy ass
nigga out of your room before I come up there and show you
why my name is Slaughta. *winking emoji*
Me: You better stop watching me and go home to your loose
ends. I have some things to do! See you at the altar. *peace
sign emoji*
414-769-0234: 10… play
414-769-0234: 9…8…7… with
414-769-0234: 6…5…4… somebody
414-769-0234: 3… 2… else
414-769-0234: Plum
Me: Okay… okayyy, who is Plum? He's about to leave now just
stay where you are. And how do you know where I’m at? Now I
got two stalking ass niggas on my back. Bye, Domonick.

“Hey, Rocco. You gotta get outta here, sir. I don’t care where you go,
but getting out of this room right now is important.”
“Why? You got some other nigga coming to see you? Huh?” he says as
he pushed me up against the wall.
“No. Well, kinda. I’m about to get married, and my husband told me to
get you out of this room a whole minute ago. So yeah, Bye!” I said as I
kicked him and walked to the door. As I opened the door, Domonick
appeared and waltzed in with a smirk.
“Nigga, why the fuck are you still here?” he asked Rocco, who now had
a red laser dot in the middle of his forehead.
“I just came to check on my girl. Who are you?” Rocco quizzed through
gritted teeth. Both of them were marking their territory when neither one of
them had me. Men.
“Get out before I put you out. She does not need your company, and I’m
sure she doesn’t want your blood on her hands, either.”
“Now do you, Plum?” Domonick said, and this was the first time I’d
ever heard his Italian accent come out. It was thick when he said those
words. His eyes were so dark, possessed even, and I knew then he was my
type of crazy.
I gave him a small smirk and shook my head no as he watched Rocco
open the door and walk out. He slammed the door behind him so hard that
the pictures on the suite walls were shaking.
This is a mess already, I thought to myself.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 20
DOMONICK RIVERA
MY WIFE.

SHE REALLY THOUGHT I was going to let her out of my sight that
fast. I wanted her months ago when I laid eyes on her, and now that she was
about to be my wife, I knew that I couldn’t let up. When we left the
attorney’s office, I followed her to get a feel for how she was outside of me.
I know it sounds creepy, but I’m about to live with a complete stranger. I
wanted to know more about her, so I went to look for myself.
I followed about four cars behind her. After hopping off the exit, she
ended up at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, and my mind began to race. I knew she
was not fucking another nigga like that when she just signed her life over to
me. She was about to be my wife, and I’d be damned if another
motherfucka sampled that ass before I got to.
I contacted Hammer and Boz to get them to run down her number with
the tech guy, Carlos, and get back to me. It took them about ten minutes
before they sent a text message that contained her number. I forgot I already
had it from when she gave me her fake name at the club. I pulled it up and
sent off a text. Once I hit that send button, she was going to understand who
the fuck she was dealing with. My wife, my way. She was about to learn
today!
After she responded, I decided to go up to her suite. I knew she came
from money, so I would have to be very intentional about getting her to fall
in love with me, but I was up for the challenge. She couldn’t be brought. My
type of woman.
I went to the reception desk and was granted access to her hotel room.
What she didn’t know is that I owned the franchised hotel, and everyone
here knew me. She’ll soon realize that I had access to just about anything I
wanted at any given moment. My family was just well connected in this
dark world.
I made it to her room and realized I heard another voice. Sliding my
personal phone out of my pocket, I sent a warning text before I broke in.
Five minutes later, the door was slightly opened, and I came face to face
with my beautiful wife. I took in her blemish-free complexion, her curves,
and all that damn hair on her head. It was so thick that I think a comb would
break off in it if she tried to comb through it. Her hair was different earlier
when I saw her. I’m assuming she was wearing a lace frontal or whatever
these women call it these days. Her hair looked like she had just showered
because it was wet.
I liked looking at her, but I loved her raw beauty. It intrigued me. After
being stuck in her raw beauty for what seemed like minutes, I snapped out
of it and pushed the door open that she had appeared in through a crack.
“Who was that, Plum?” I asked with a stern face.
“Damnit, stop calling me that! That was Rocco if you must know,” she
said, walking away from me.
I quickly wrapped my hand around the small of her back and pulled her
into me. “So why was he here?” I asked with a hint of jealousy in my voice.
She just looked at me and attempted to pull away, but I held her firmly. I
wasn’t letting her run, not away from this conversation. I needed to know if
he was going to be an issue.
“You can tell me the truth, or I can find out the hard way. And I’m sure
you don’t want the latter,” I explained.
She parted her lips, but nothing came out. “I’ll tell you what you want
to know, but let me finish my blunt first because between you and him…”
She rolled her eyes.
“Plum, don’t put him and me in the same sentence. I’m not sure who he
is yet, but I can guarantee you that he isn’t me,” I stated with disdain.
I watched her as she looked at me. Her skin was glowing in the
moonlight. I could look at her all day and not get tired. I was a smooth
talker, but Amari made me nervous. I wanted to make the best impression
even though marriage isn’t something I want right now. I wanted her to feel
safe and comfortable and know that she had nothing to worry about.
She eventually broke our gaze and walked to the balcony. I watched her
ass intently. It was so plump and round. It paired nicely with her size
eighteen shape. I loved a thicker woman. Nothing could compare to feeling
the warmth of a curvier woman. She was the complete opposite of Lana. I
turned and watched her light the blunt. She took a long pull from it and
turned me.
“You can have a seat. You asked me to tell you, and I’m about to tell it
to you, so bring your ass over here,” she said with a little attitude.
“I see I’m going to have to get your attitude in check,” I said with a
smirk as I walked toward her. I slid the seat out from under the table on the
balcony, coming face to face with her beautiful round face again. Those
lips.
“So, I guess I should be transparent with you since we’ll be joined in
holy matrimony or whatever. Rocco is, I guess you can consider him many
first of mine. He was the first person I kissed and spent time with outside of
my family, the first to build my confidence as a woman outside of my
father. He was my bodyguard for about a year and a half,” she said as she
gazed at the sky above the balcony.
“So, he did all that for you? And y’all not together?” I quizzed.
“You wanna hit?” she asked, holding the blunt in my direction.
I grabbed it from her and took a pull, waiting for her response. She
seemed to be in deep thought.
“Have you ever had this one person that you knew you were going to
end up with, and you saw your whole future in their eyes? The things you
talked about and experienced seemed so next level that you never want to
come down from that high cloud you are riding on with them? That was
Rocco for me. He did all those things for me and then disappeared off the
face of the earth. No text, no goodbye, no call, absolutely nothing,” she said
with sorrow laced in her voice.
“He was my first heartbreak, and it led to my first mental break before
my senior prom. Granted, it wasn’t all because of him, and it partly came
from my mental disorders, too,” she said while looking at me directly in my
eyes.
“Mental disorders?” I questioned.
“Yeah. That year, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Schizoaffective
Disorder. I had been hearing a strong womanly voice for a few years prior
here and there and didn’t think much of it. When I’m on my meds that I
take twice a day, I’m stable and can live a normal life, but when I’m off
them, you’d probably consider me insane and impulsive, to say the least.
I’m more of a danger to myself than others,” she explained.
 A silence fell over us as we passed the blunt back and forth. I had to
process everything she was telling me and not respond wrong because she
was about to be bound to me for the rest of our lives. At least, I hope this
develops into more. I have found myself caring about her feelings, safety,
and happiness in the short time we have been introduced to each other.
“Aye, Amari. Look at me for a minute.” She turned and gazed at me.
Her eyes were low and red. She looked so damn sexy sitting her plump ass
in that chair that I wish like hell was my lap. Her robe had fallen open some
and showed the black laced bra she had on.
“That nigga was a sucka. Men have a way of making women feel like
they are less than worthy of love because of the fucked-up choices we
make. I say we because I haven’t always been the perfect person that you
would want to take home to your family, but I respect women enough to tell
them the truth from the start. You’re safe with me, Amari. You and I both
know that neither of us wants to be married, but it comes down to this so
that our families can remain in the rings of power with St. Emerald.
I will do my best to protect you and honor you. I won’t disappear, baby,
but I won’t take the punishment for Rocco’s actions. I want to love you
even though this is the most unconventional way to get together. I’m not
saying this road will be easy, but I think it will be worth it. You in?” I asked,
extending my hand toward her.
She looked at me a little longer, searching for the lie she thought I
would be telling. When she realized it was none, she extended her hand and
grabbed mine. “I hear you, Domonick, but if you hurt my heart, it’s war,”
she said with finality.
I knew she meant it and prayed that she didn’t have to make good on
that promise.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 21
BRITT
THREE DAYS LATER

I JUST ARRIVED BACK in town, and I dreaded this conversation

with Mari. I have a good feeling that it’s about Channing and me. She has
been so distant the last few months, and I just wanted… no, I needed my
friend back. This pregnancy had my hormones everywhere, and I just
needed a safe space to vent as I walked through the airport. I called Amari.
She picked up after the second ring.
“Hey, sisterrrrrr. I’m back in town. You think you could pick me up
from the airport, and we have that lunch date and talk because I’m hungry
as fuck,” I said excitedly. I missed her.
“Yeah, I’ll be there in about twenty minutes, hoe,” she said dryly.
“Check your attitude before you come, Mari. I don’t want any issues.
I’ve missed you, and I need you,” I said.
“Yeah, Britt. See you in a few,” she said and hung up the phone.
I let out a frustrated sigh and sat on the bench beside me while waiting.
I was not approaching my twenty-second week of pregnancy, and it was
passed the mark of getting an abortion. Part of the reason I stayed away for
so long was working, but it ended up being because I realized that I needed
a breath of fresh air and some alone time to think. I’ve begun to show a
little and had the cutest little pudge. I started getting medical treatment
while I was out in California because I knew that I needed to check on the
baby and make sure I was staying healthy with all of the running around I
was doing at my new job. It was so fun seeing the project come to life, and
after posting the finishing products to my Instagram, my clientele list has
grown. I just recently accepted a job here in St. Emerald to be closer to
home as my pregnancy progressed. Channing texted me every morning to
make sure that I was feeling okay and making sure I didn’t need anything.
I know he always said he didn’t want any kids, but the way he has
checked on me, I knew he was starting to feel differently. As if he was
reading my mind, he texted me.
FUCK BOY: Hey, I was just checking on you. How are you
feeling today?
Me: I’m good. I just made it back home, going to eat lunch with
Mari. She wants to talk with me about something.
FUCK BOY: Bet. I would appreciate some of your time today. I
just want to see where your head is with everything and ensure
I support you in any way possible. Hit me up when you get
some free time.
Me: OK

I tossed my phone in my bag after looking at the time and noticed that
Amari should be pulling up any minute now. I grabbed my things and made
my way out to the front of the airport. It felt so nice today, so my maxi dress
gave me the breeze that I so desperately needed. I was always hot now. It
felt like my body was a damn Dutch oven on ten thousand degrees all the
time.
Shortly after walking outside, I spotted Amari’s Range Rover pulling
up. She hopped out and rounded the car.
She stood in front of me and took me in from head to toe. I couldn’t
read her face, but I knew she was going to have something to say.
“So, you’re still pregnant?” she looked at me, puzzled.
“Can we get out of this heat, and I will talk to you about everything
over some food? I’m hungry, bestie,” I whined.
She humped her shoulders, grabbed my bags, and placed them in the
trunk. We climbed into the truck, and she pulled off.
“Where do you want to eat?” she asked.
“I want some bomb ass pasta from Olive Garden; that has been my
craving for the last few weeks,” I said while dancing in my seat. Food
always made my pregnant ass happy.
“Okay,” she said, and we went back to silence. I knew she had many
questions, and I would answer them because she deserved the truth, and I
wanted everything out in the open. She’s always been there for me, and I
wanted… no, I needed her now.
 We pulled into the parking lot of Olive Garden and climbed out. After
being seated by the hostess, our waiter walked up, and we placed our
orders. Mari still hasn’t said anything to me, and she has started to make me
nervous. I wanted to know what was on her mind. She was always so
bubbly and open with me, and seeing her like this so detached bothered me.
After the waiter bought our drinks back, I decided it was time to hash this
shit out.
“What’s on your mind, Amari?” I quizzed.
She looked at me and sighed. “When were you going to tell me about
you being pregnant? Better yet, when would you tell me that you were
pregnant by my brother?” she said. Her voice was filled with sadness and
hurt.
“First, I want to say I’m sorry. I can tell you’re hurt by this, and I never
wanted to hurt you, Mari. Your brother and I were not supposed to develop
into what we were, and you know… because it was your brother, I didn’t
want to tell you,” I explained.
“Because it was my brother is the main reason you should have told me,
Britt,” she said.
“How did you find out about the baby? It’s clear that you’ve known for
some time now,” I asked.
“I overheard the conversation you, Channing, and Mom had the day
before you left. It hurt me that he hurt you. Channing has always been the
biggest hoe of them all. I didn’t want you to fall victim to his shenanigans,
but I guess it’s too late for that now. The kicker was how you decided to
abort the baby on the strength of my nappy headed brother, too,” she said
with her nose turned up at me.
“You didn’t even consider my thoughts, my mom's, not even Papa's in
this matter, and that hurt the worst. I want to be a part of my niece’s or
nephew’s life, and you were going to just up and leave and abort the
mission without even thinking twice about it. That hurt, Britt. I thought we
were better than that.”
She had tears in her eyes, and I hated that I was the cause of this pain
for her. I never thought about anyone else in this situation because I didn’t
want any attachments to Channing and his stupid ways, and I hurt my
person in the process.
“I’m sorry, Mari. Your nephew and godson will be happy to know that
you love him more than I could love him in the beginning,” I said as the
waterworks started.
“I’m sorry, and I hope you forgive me because I need you right now.
Did you hear all of that conversation?” She nodded yes, and I knew then
that she knew everything. I’m happy she knew everything because that was
my best-kept secret for years, and I’m so excited it's out in the open now.
“What is Channing’s feelings about all of this?” Mari asked.
“He wants me to keep the baby. He never said that he wanted me to
abort it. I was going to do it because he’d broken my heart so many times,
and I didn’t want him to make us second best, so I was choosing to void
him of the problem altogether. I always wanted to be with your brother, but
that ship has sailed now, and I’m focusing on the baby and me. He deserves
the best, and if your brother wants to be a part of his life, I won’t stop him,
but my baby boy will be happy and loved regardless,” I told her.
“You know Channing is a lot of things, but I know he won’t neglect you
and Kaiser, so that’s nothing to worry about. Just wait until Papa hears
about the baby. He’s going to be on Channing’s ass like white on rice.” She
laughed.
I’m so happy she’s lightened the mood. “Thank you, Mari, for always
being here for me. Don’t think I missed how you just named my son either,”
I said while laughing.
“Don’t let this shit happen again. I’m giving you a pass because I know
you’re going through it and you’re pregnant, but next mistake, I’m
whooping your ass and asking questions later. That’s the least I can get
since you were didn’t tell me about your situationship between you and
brother,” she said with a serious face.
I got up and walked around the table because I needed a hug. “It won’t
happen again, bestie. I love you.”
“I love you too, hoe. Now, where is the waiter with our food? ” She said
with all seriousness, and I couldn’t help but laugh.
Oh, how I missed my girl.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 22
CHAOS
MINUS AMARI.

“HEY, baby. What are you up to?” Alikay asked. My wife was gorgeous.
She looked like she was aging backwards gracefully, and I could never get
enough of that beautiful face. Once I broke the news to her about her baby
girl getting married, I knew I would be in the doghouse, so I needed to soak
this loving up while I could get it. If I go missing y’all, just know Alikay
did it. My woman was the truth. Even though people saw her as soft-spoken
and timid, I knew otherwise. She could buss with the best of the best, no
thanks to me and my foolishness at the beginning of St. Emerald’s
Association being built.
“I’m just reviewing some accounts to ensure Channing has been on his
A game. I am getting too old to be in this game. I’m ready to get out so I
can rub on my wife whenever I want. You feel me?” I said as she took her
seat in my lap.
“I agree, baby. I am ready for you to retire and take me away from this
place for a couple of months. I know this will always be home. This is
where we raised our babies, but this Association is draining you and giving
you a few wrinkles,” she stressed with a few giggles.
“Woman, I’m still fine as wine. You love my old wrinkly ass,” I said as
I kissed her on the neck.
“When is the last time you talk to Channing?” she quizzed.
“I talked to him this morning. Is everything okay?”
“It is, but he must haven’t told you if you asked me that. Well, Brittnee
is pregnant, and he’s the father. She told me and told me that she was
aborting the baby, and I haven’t heard from her since that night,” she
explained with a look of worry and sorrow in her eyes.
 This was news to me. Brit and Channing? A baby? I should whoop
Channing’s ass, but what good is that going to do now. I needed to put my
baby’s mind at ease and ensure she knew everything would be okay and I’d
figure out what was happening with them.
“How about this? I called everyone over for dinner this evening to sit
down and discuss what’s happening. Would that make you feel better,
baby?” I asked while kissing her.
Alikay had tears in her eyes, so I knew she was worried about the
outcome of this situation.
“I would like that, baby. I just wish the outcome could be different,” she
said while wiping her tears.
I had to break the news that her baby girl would be getting married in
two days too. So, there was going to be a lot of information coming out at
this dinner. I’m just praying everything works out in the favor of our family.
___________________
After calling around to all of the kids and making sure they were in
attendance for the night, I called the chef to make sure the dinner
proportions would be correct so everyone could eat. Everyone would be
here except Amari. She still wasn’t talking to me after I told her about the
marriage.
That was something I still needed to tell my wife.
My wife had since retired to our room to lie down. I didn’t lay into
Channing’s ass when I called him because I needed to have a man-to-man
conversation with him. This talk was overdue, and I should have said more
years ago. Britnee was like a daughter to me, and to know she was hurt at
the hands of my son after enduring so much trauma in her childhood; I
knew he had lost his mind. Everyone was due to arrive in about an hour, so
I needed to get a move on it. I went to wake my wife up and clean myself
up a little bit.
I exited my office and walked down the long hallway to the double
doors at the end. Our suite was fit for the king and queen that we are. As
you step through the door, you notice the size immediately. The room was
about the flank of a two-studio apartment together. Alikay was in her
favorite spot, the center of my California king-size bed. She was smaller
than me, but she took up the center of the bed like we were the same size. I
just shook my head and laughed.
 I walked over to her side of the bed, kissed her lips, and stuck my
tongue into her mouth. I knew that would wake her up. She moaned as I
pulled away from the kiss and bit her bottom lip.
“What did I do to deserve that, Daddy?” she said sleepily.
“Just being you, Mrs. Moody,” I said. “Get on up and get ready; the kids
should be here in another half hour.”
She took a deep breath and began to sit up in the bed. I know this was
weighing on her, but what I was a firm believer in was making sure that she
knew God had us and he had this situation, too.
“Chest up, chin out. I know it’s hard, but remember, God always has the
last say.” I smiled at her.
She nodded her head and proceeded to get up.
I walked into my closet and grabbed a white tee and some dark-wash
blue jeans. On an average day, you would catch me in a suit, but today, I
was among family, and I wanted to be comfortable. I grabbed my Father’s
Day gift from my kids this year off the island in the middle of my walk-in
closet. It was a 2023 Hermes watch. I loved watches, so they gifted me
some of the rarest ones over the years. Those kids meant the world to me,
and I just wanted to make sure they were all safe and taken care of.
Even Brittnee.
The doorbell pulled me out of the closet after I checked myself over
once in the mirror. I walked down the stairs, and in walked Channing and
Brittnee. I could tell she was not happy to be around him, but she was
making the sacrifice for me.
“Hey, baby girl. How are you? I see that belly poking. Am I about to be
a Papa?” I asked with a smile.
“Well, about that, Padre. I’ve been thinking about it, but I don’t want to
talk about it. How are you?” she asked.
I could tell she didn’t want to talk in front of Channing, and she
probably wasn't expecting me to know about the pregnancy.
I stepped to the side and allowed them to walk in. I knew that this
situation was sensitive so we will just try talking about it later. As I stepped
to the side, Alikay walked to the stairs and hugged both of them. She pulled
Brittnee into the kitchen with her. I knew she just wanted to talk without the
interruption of men, and I understood that.
I glared at Channing as he watched Brittnee walk to the kitchen with his
mom. His face told me everything I needed to know. He was hurting, but he
created this problem for himself. I told him to follow me into the great room
so that we could talk.
He flopped down on the couch with a sigh, “I know. I know everything
you’re going to say, Pops, and I know I messed up with her.”
“She really was the best thing that happened to me, and I was too blind
to see it,” he voiced. “ but maybe, just maybe, she will come around now
that she has decided to keep the baby. That was our biggest argument since
she told me she was pregnant. When she up and left for Cali without telling
me, I was nice and gave her space. It was hard, but she deserved peace. If
she was going to carry my seed, then she at least deserved that. I checked
on her and made sure she had bread too. Pops, I want her, but I know she’s
tired of me, and to ensure the safety of Britt, I am going to back off. I just
need to make sure that nobody else tries to get at her,” Chan gritted.
“My seed should be her number one and only focus at this time.”
“Son, how do you expect to control that young lady when your life is a
mess itself?” I quizzed. “You expect her to sit there and watch you fuck on
woman after woman while she is carrying your son or daughter and be
waiting on you to make it right after all that?
Yo’ mama must have dropped you on the head as a baby if you think
that shit will work out for you!” I laughed. I could see the rage in my son’s
eyes, but he knew better. I wasn’t the one to sugarcoat a damn thing for
someone’s feelings, and right now, he was just butt hurt from this ordeal.
“Son, women are delicate, and I should have stepped in and taught you
this a long time ago.”
“Your mother is treated like a queen in our home. She is the best thing
that has ever happened to me. Now, granted, I have done some messed up
shit that had caused me to have to work hard and regain her attention, time,
and trust, but she has never had to worry about much with me. I provided. I
spent time with her. I was at all of our children’s functions. Anything Alikay
wants to ask me for, she has it before the end of the day… I would go to the
moon and back to be there for your mom. She is the star that hung the moon
for me. She is the glue to my stick,” I noted as I looked off into the street in
front of us.
“Son, Brittnee has already experienced so much trauma from her
parents. I say leave her alone until you have gotten out of your hoe phase
because I’m telling you now. It will only be one more time for you guys IF
she gives you another chance at love with her.”
 I looked at Channing once more and started to walk off. It was time for
him to man up and realize the error in his ways. No one could save him but
himself. He had to take the guidance of someone a little more seasoned than
him, and he would be okay, but until then, he would always be stressed and
worried.
I looked back once I made it to the door of the kitchen and realized that
Channing hadn’t moved yet. “He must really be feeling it,” I said to myself
and pushed the swinging kitchen door open.
There stood Alikay in her multicolor moo-moo that complemented her
beautiful skin tone. Her hair was braided down into a single French braid
that hung right above the top of her ass. After she popped out my two seeds,
her body filled in more, and I couldn’t keep my hands off of her.
“Hey, Britt. How are you doing, baby girl? We’ve missed you around
here. How was Cali?” I quizzed.
I visibly noticed her get tense and then relax shortly after. I could tell
she was stressed but she wanted to maintain her composure while in the
presence of the ones who raised her.
“It’s been good, Pops. Did Ma tell you about my first interior designer
gig that I had back in Cali? The only reason I came home was because I
wanted to give birth around my family, but when I finally drip this load, me
and my baby boy are packing up and getting outta here. There are nothing
but bad memories for me here and I want to feel at peace with my
surroundings,” Brit declared with a somber look.
I hated that she felt that way, but I knew that moving was a no-go with
my grandchild, and I had to let her know.
“Brit, I don’t think it would be wise to move across the country so soon
after you have the baby. I would also like to be a part of my grandson’s life
if that’s okay with you,” I stated. I didn’t want to overstep, but I also knew
that I had to get her to understand that a lot of people on this side of the
world cared about her, even though my knuckleheaded son was the source
of some of her pain.
She just looked at me and nodded her head. Alikay didn’t know what to
say about that bomb being dropped, but I’m hoping she stays put so we can
get to know our first grandbaby. Life may be changing more than we
thought it would in nine months.

OceanofPDF.com
 CHAPTER 23
CHANNING
DON’T PLAY WITH ME.

MY POPS and mom called us over here to have dinner, but I didn’t have
much of an appetite. It’s hard when it feels like the girl you’re in love with
is giving you the cold shoulder. I have watched Brit stay away from me on
countless occasions because of the things I did with women, but this time
felt different.
She even looked at me differently. I wanted what we had back, but after
our last fiasco, I knew what the deal was, so I just left her alone and let her
come home when she felt like it. I knew she needed to be healthy for our
seed’s sake, so I backed off. I missed her scent. I missed her hair brushing
against my beard as we slept. I missed her.
She looked at me sitting across from her at the dinner table and sighed.
It seemed like she didn't have much of an appetite, either. I knew she
needed to eat, so I began eating my dinner in hopes that she would follow
suit. I wanted her healthy.
I knew she was planning on leaving for Cali shortly after giving birth,
but I wanted to talk her into staying if I could. Better yet, I wanted to show
her what she would be missing if she left because I’d be damned if she took
my seed with her. I wouldn’t make it difficult for her to see our son, but I
would for sure try to keep him here. She could go be free, but she wasn’t
taking my heir.
“Brit, when is your next ultrasound? I would like to be present to hear
our baby’s heartbeat,” I quizzed. “I want to ask a few questions to the
doctors as well about your health and the afterbirth.”
“I will text you the appointment card they made out for me. You can sit
in the lobby while I handle my business with the doctor, and I will have
them invite you back for a question-and-answer time after I have been
examined. I’m sure she wouldn’t mind doing the ultrasound afterward,” Brit
said.
I wasn’t pleased with her answer, and she knew it once I looked at her
face and she had a hint of a smirk tugged at her lips. Brit also knew that I
wouldn’t say much in front of my parents because I respected them too
much. I just nodded and continued eating.
Ma asked Brit if she was ready for the appointment and asked her if she
needed anything. I interjected and let her know that I had been doing my
job as a man and making sure Brittnee had everything she needed even
though we weren’t together. Ma was mad that I answered for her, but I
knew she would leave it alone at this point. I was just ready to get this
dinner over with because I wanted to talk to Britt before she left.
I overheard Brit telling Ma that she was going out with Amari late
tonight, and I wanted to know where and with whom. I know it has been a
while since that attack happened to my grandfather, but being that she was
carrying my seed now, I need to add security to her everyday life to protect
her.
We all finished up dinner and moved into the living room. Since I
helped Ma clear the table, I was the last to enter the living room, and thank
God because I could sit right next to Brit since it was the only seat
available. Ma had turned on the movie Best Man Holiday, and I walked in
on Brit’s favorite part. I started singing the lyrics of Can’t Stand the Rain by
New Edition as I sat down next to her. She loved my voice. I rarely sang
because I didn’t need anyone knowing that about me, and these niggas in
the streets thought I was some soft ass bitch or something. I only really ever
sang to Brit.
Mane, this girl is really my world, I thought to myself as the scene
finished. She just looked at me and I could tell she was still very much
unimpressed by my actions.
I guess they are a little played out being that we've been at this for a
while, but I knew how to win her back. I just need that chance and her
being in my space for a while.
Brit got up to get ready to leave, telling us that she had to meet Amari at
nine o’clock to make sure they made it on their outing. I was still pissed at
Pops because it seemed like he hadn't told Ma that her daughter was set to
be married in a couple weeks. Instead of waiting for her to walk to the door,
I got right up and followed her to get her things. I wanted to ensure that she
made it to the car safely anyway, and this would give us the chance to talk a
little without listening ears. She was walking so fast that I didn’t see her
flying past me as I told Pops I’d be right back. She was already at the door
when I grabbed her arm and spun her around to face me.
“Brit, why are you running from me? You act like I’m going to harm
you or something? Slow your ass down, mane!” I whispered into her ear. I
didn’t want anyone to hear me, but she was starting to work my nerves with
her attitude. I wasn’t used to this Britnee. My Brit that I knew wasn’t
aggressive, cold, or sad. This Brit was not the same person, and I couldn’t
help but feel like I was the cause of it.
She pulled away from me slightly, but I wasn’t letting go. I didn’t want
to let go. I felt like she would never come back if I did, and I’d be damned
if I let another nigga get what belongs to me. She was my family, and I was
going to make her my wife. Y’all can mark my words on that statement.
She wasn’t about to let me get it easily, but I was willing to work for her.
“Let me go, Chan! I have somewhere to be. You don’t have to chase me
now, baby because I promise you someone else will want me. Even with a
baby and a crazy ass baby daddy. Now, MOVE!” she snatched away and
got free this time and started toward the door again.
What she had said finally registered and infuriated me. I was seeing red
as she walked to the door like what she said wasn’t bullshit. I waited until
she turned the knob before I started after her. I wasn’t a woman abuser, so I
needed to count to ten before proceeding with this conversation. I walked
out shortly after her and called her name.
“BRIT!” I shouted.
My voice stopped her in her tracks. I took long strides until I was right
behind her. My dick was pressed firmly against her ass. I wanted her to feel
how hard I was and how much I missed being inside her. I missed us.
“Stop playing with me, Britt. You’ve done this before, and I’m going to
show you like every other time that you aren’t leaving me, and another
nigga isn’t going to make it past a first date with you. Now, try me?” I said
softly into her ear. She began to shiver as my words tickled her ear as I
spoke.
She was playing hard to get, but I knew she was affected by my
presence. I just needed her to see that she was missing out on a good man
that actually could treat her right. I knew what I wanted now, and I was
going to get it. I finally backed up after telling her that I would be coming
to her house tonight after leaving my parents’ house and she better be home
by one or I was coming to find her.

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 CHAPTER 24
AMARI MOODY

I HAD JUST GOTTEN off the phone with Britt, telling her I had made
it home. I was so ready to go out tonight. With all the things that were about
to transpire, I needed to take in all my freedom before being stuck to the
fine specimen of a husband that I was marrying just for status. We were
about to go out in a celebratory fashion for my wedding. I didn’t consider it
a bachelorette party because it was just us two and she couldn’t drink.
Being that I knew very little about him, I knew that this marriage would
be hard to handle, especially being under the same roof. Domonick knew
about my formal diagnosis, but he did not know how to deal with it when
things got bad. Again, I feel like he is going to be the one who sends me
over the edge I haven’t been on in years. I hadn’t been there since him. I
wanted to keep it that way, but I knew it would be a mess, and he was not
ready for that side of me. No one would be ready because once I started…
no one would be able to stop me until I was finished. This connection that
we had was unreal and I couldn’t understand it to save my soul.
I wanted to be near him.
I wanted him to talk to me.
I wanted him to hold me.
I wanted him in my space,
but I didn’t know why.
I didn’t understand why.
Life was changing drastically for me, and I had no idea what to do about
it. On one hand, being married to Domonick wouldn’t be so bad, but I know
it’s more to him. I can feel it in my bones.
 I really need to spend some time with him because we are supposed to
go house shopping soon and I just can't fathom living with him and I don’t
even know what he does for a living. This was just too much and let's not
mention the way he showed up at my hotel room unannounced like some
creep. Just thinking about it made my head hurt. I hopped up and grabbed a
wine glass from out of the cabinet, grabbed the wine from the fridge, and
poured me a huge glass. I swallowed the first half of the glass and the
doorbell rang. I knew it was Brit, so I made my way to the front.
I swung the door open and got the surprise of my life.
It was him, standing there in all of his sexiness and glory. When I say,
God created this man with time, patience, and precision. He was definitely
hand-crafted by God himself. I took in his appearance because he was
dressed down today. He had on loafers with a Polo t-shirt and black jeans.
He looked delicious. I couldn’t wait to taste him.
OMG! What was I thinking? I soon schooled my face and looked up at
him.
“What are you doing here, Domonick?” I asked.
“Is that any way to greet your husband?” he asked with a smirk.
Instead of him asking to come in, he gently pushed me to the side and
walked in without permission. I spun around on the balls of my feet and
looked at him like he had grown two heads as he walked into my foyer and
smelled my fresh flowers sitting there. Since my Padre signed me up for
this deal, I decided to move into the townhouse that my brother gifted me
about three years ago. I politely walked up to Domonick and grabbed his
hand. There it was again. That spark, but I had a mission, and I wasn’t about
to abort now. I began pulling his big ass to the door and pushed him right on
outside of it. He was not about to bully me, and I was going to let him know
it off the rip.
“You do not enter my space without permission. If you want to talk to
me or see me, you should have picked up the phone and called first or even
texted me, but this is not the business. What if I had another nigga here or
something? HUH?” I said frustratedly. “What if I was ass naked trying to
turn a trick, and you just walked in here like that?”
I was frustrated with this man. Sexually and mentally, and the wine was
not helping the sexual part any.
“Amari, after the last problem with had with other niggas, I think you
have learned what to do and what not to do. I have no patience for your
antics with niggas, and you should consider treading lightly with that from
here on out. I’m a lot of things, and possessive is at the top of the list,
Plum,” he spoke all of that as he pushed me into the house, wrapped his
hands around my waist, and closed the door with his foot before reaching
back and locking it.
My breathing hitched and I knew then Domonick would be the death of
me. He would be my danger outside of myself. He would make me do the
unthinkable. I have never had sex before, but with him, I knew it would be
top tier!
“Can you give me some space, Dom?” I asked sheepishly.
“I can give you space once you agree to stop running from me,” he
stated.
I wanted him in the worst way, but I knew that I couldn’t give in that
easily. I did need to tell him though, so it was now or never. His lips
hovered over mine so close that they were brushing against mine. I began
panting as I looked in his dark eyes. I could see the shining of his grill on
his bottom teeth. Sexy ass.
“D… Do… Dom, I’m a virgin,” I said softly, just a little above a
whisper. He just looked at me for a few minutes. He pulled away slightly,
but I could tell he was thinking about what I said.
He leaned back in, “I know already and that’s okay. That means I’m
going to be the first and last nigga you’ll ever feel or love. I promise I got
you.” Those words sent tingles down my spine, and I swear I think I came
right then and there. I have had an orgasm, but not just off someone’s words
before.
Rocco could never, I thought.
“I just wanted to see you, Plum. My security told me that it looked like
you were going out tonight, and I had to see you since you didn't text me or
anything,” he said with his head cocked to the side.
I couldn’t do anything but laugh at this fool because how did he even
know I was going out tonight? I had only talked to Brit about that, and I
knew she wasn’t talking to Dom because she didn’t even know about him
yet.
“Mr. Rivera, I think you should stop telling me things you know about
me because it’s starting to look really crazy. I am going out with my best
friend to tell her that I am marrying you and to celebrate a little bit since I
won’t be a single woman in about two weeks. I might even get me a little
ding-a-ling while I’m at it since I can’t try anyone but yours while we're
married,” I said while laughing. Dom didn’t find that funny, so he just
looked at me as I doubled over in laughter.
I knew I was pissing him off with my comments on other dicks, but I
didn’t care. He better get used to my sense of humor and roll with it because
I was not changing for him or anyone else. While I was laughing, I heard
my phone going off in the other room, so I walked in that direction and
picked it up. It was Brit telling me she was pulling up. That was bad timing
because Dom was here, but it’s whatever. I guess she can formally meet him
all in the same breath as learning about him. Maybe she won’t be so mad at
me for keeping this from her.
“Go sit down somewhere, Dom. Brit is coming in, and this will be her
first time learning about you and our soon-to-be marriage. Act like you got
some sense too, because I’d hate to have to fuck you up about my best
friend,” I said to him as the doorbell sounded off again.
I rushed off to the door as he took his seat on the couch.
“Besttieeeeeee! I’m so happy to see you!” she screamed as she entered
while hugging me. When she finally let go, we made our way into the living
room, and her eyes landed on Dom.
“Mari, who the hell is this fine ass man?” Brit asked while side-eyeing
me. Dom got his ass up and held his hand out.
“I’m Domonick Rivera, Amari’s husband.”
I damn near choked on my wine as I took a big ass sip.
“AMARI LEIKA MOODY! WHAT IN THE ENTIRE FUCK IS THIS
MAN TALKING ABOUT?!! I’M TOO PREGNANT FOR THIS SHIT,
AMARI… AMARI! BRING YO’ ASS IN HERE!” Brit yelled.
“Coming!” I yelled from the kitchen.
“Yes?” I said sweetly as I rounded the corner.
“You're getting married, and I’m just now hearing about it, and he’s
standing in my face with his hand out, and I’m supposed to shake it because
you are about to get married to his fine ass? Amari, tell me he’s kidding?”
she said, looking at me for answers.
“Ok, ok... Brit. Yes, I am getting married to this man, but it’s not at all
how you think. I actually invited you over here to tell you this, but he just
popped up, and he didn’t get a chance to leave before you came, so I just
told him to sit his ass here while I told you. He wasn’t supposed to tell you,
but as you can see, his ass thinks he runs something out here,” I said while
eyeing Dom. He couldn’t do anything but smirk.
“Y’all two are about to stop talking about me like I’m not standing here
in front of y’all. I know that’s for sure,” he said cocky.
We both looked at him, “FIRST OFF! Shut your ass up!” We said in
unison.
He busted out laughing.
I couldn’t with his ass. He thinks everything I say is a joke. I slapped
the back of his head so fast he couldn’t even think about it.
“Go sit yo’ ass down, Dom, so I can talk to my bestie. She’s pregnant
and I don’t want to upset her anymore,” I said, looking at his crazy ass rub
the back of his head where I hit him.
“You better be happy you about to be my wife or I’d fight your man
hand having ass, Plum,” Domonick said while looking at me upside my
head.
I turned to my right and saw Brit waiting for me to say something. I
honestly couldn’t tell her much because I was new to all this myself.
“Alright, Brit. So, as Dom already told you, we will be husband and
wife soon. My Padre made a deal with his father to have us married
together to create a strong bond in the Association. I won’t get into the
details because honestly they aren’t important,” I voiced.
“I wanted to tell you when we got back, but we had to have more
important conversations when we both made it back to each other… I went
to Mexico, and you went to Cali… Being that we weren’t talking much, I
had to table my relationship conversation. It does help that he’s kind of
cute, but this is scary. Tonight, I was telling you so that we could celebrate a
little, the virgin way, because you're pregnant, and I just want to be drama
free tonight,” I said all in one breath.
I wanted her to understand how important and precious this time
together was to me. I needed this time with my best friend before the chaos
erupted with wedding planning and house hunting.
I honestly felt like me and my best friend were about to grow apart
because life was taking us in different directions. Who knows how things
will end up with both of us?
“Well, sis… this is a lot to take in, but I’m happy for you. I want you to
be happy in whatever decision you make. You do have a choice, by the way.
We can run and never look back,” she said as while looking at Dom through
narrow-slitted eyes.
“We can go somewhere far away and raise Kisher together. You know
your brother will have a fit, but he can kiss my round black ass. I will just
send him pictures anonymously, and we can call it a day. It ain’t like I
wanna be with Chan anyway with his hoe ass.”
I shook my head at her. Brit knew she had a way with words. I looked
over at Dom, and if looks could kill Brit would be dead. We all looked back
and forth between each other before bursting into laughter over the whole
spill.
“I’m accepting of all of this now, my girl. I promise,” I confirmed.
“Well, if you are, then so am I. Now, when are we going dress shopping
and wedding planning because I’ll be damned if I let someone else help
you?!” she squealed.
I looked over at Dom because truly, I didn’t know the itinerary or
anything yet. I just knew I was set to marry this man two days from now.
“You can start whenever you’d like, Plum. Money is limitless. Have
fun,” he said with that panty-wetting smile plastered across his face.
“Okayyyyyy, brother-in-law with the fundsssssssssss!” Brit yelled.
Domonick chuckled before walking up to me and wrapping his arms
around my waist. This man could not keep his hands off me.
“I’m about to get going. Y’all be safe tonight. Remember that I’m
always one phone call away. I will be getting you a security detail soon, so
don’t get too relaxed being by yourself. My wife will always be protected.”
My breathing became labored as he rubbed his hand up and down my
spine. I know he knows about me being a virgin and he’s still attracted to
me. That was a first since Rocco. It wasn’t normal for me to be in close
proximity to men because I always made it clear that I wasn’t on that type
of time. Yet here I am with a whole husband.
I leaned into his ear, “Get your hands off me because you still can’t
claim me until you put a ring on this finger.” I politely stepped out of his
grasp and walked toward the couch. It was time for us to get ready and head
out.
We were supposed to go clubbing, but I felt like that wasn’t fitting for
my bestie, so I suggested we go to dinner and a movie. Of course, Brittnee
wanted Olive Garden with her pasta-loving ass, but I got to choose the
movie since it was my thing. We were going to see Wonka.
 We both headed upstairs after I walked Dominick out. That man acted
like he needed to be up my ass all day, but I can’t lie and say it didn’t feel
good that my soon-to-be husband wanted to be near me.
I opted for a comfortable jumpsuit that I got off SHEIN and a short
bubble coat with some all-white air forces. Brit put on a pair of Nike
leggings and an oversized t-shirt with a pair of Nike slides. Comfortable
was the move for tonight. We put the finishing touches on our looks and
headed for the door.
As we got ready to leave, I got this gut feeling. Something is not right. I
tried my best to shake it off, so I headed to the kitchen to prolong us being
in the house. I told Brit that we would leave right after I loaded the
dishwasher. I was hoping that the feeling would go away by then, but it
didn’t happen. I decided to proceed with our plans anyway.
We headed to the door, and I grabbed my purse and went to the long end
table near the door to grab another panic button for Brit. You can never be
too safe these days. I handed it off to her and explained that it was just for
safety purposes since we were going out alone.
I grabbed my keys off the key holder, and Brit stepped out while I was
right behind her. I turned my back for a second to lock the deadbolt on my
townhouse door and
RATT-A-TAT-A-TAT-A-TATATTTTT
I stopped and hit the ground as soon as I could. I heard Brittnee scream
and called her name as the gunfire continued.
RATT-A-TAT-A-TAT-A-TATATTTTT
RATT-A-TAT-A-TAT-A-TATATTTTT
RATT-A-TAT-A-TAT-A-TATATTTTT
I called her again, but I didn’t hear Britt. Jesus, let me find her.
I began military crawling and feeling around with my head slightly
raised. I saw her foot near the bushes in my front yard. I kept going until I
got to her. I was scared. I didn’t hear any gunshots anymore, but I didn’t
know if it was safe. I crawled until we were face-to-face. I couldn’t tell if
she had any injuries, but I proceeded to flip her over.
“Britt… NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!”

TO BE CONTINUED…
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