#asap rocky ff

[writerbee-ffs]

Here it was ... your birthday. Although most would probably be receiving birthday calls and gift or even figuring out what club they were about to hit up, you were most definitely getting ready for work. Out of all the places you could be you just had to take this last minute client for a photo shoot that your manager insisted on.

“So you weren’t playing about going to work today?” Your boyfriend, Michael, asked watching you scramble around the room for your clothes.

“Bakari, I made it clear that I had to work. What should I do quit my job just because it’s my birthday?” Your voice was laced with an attitude as you buttoned the Fashion Nova high waist jeans up. Partly because you knew Michael had been ready to argue about this since your manager, Latavia, called you and told you about the exclusive shoot that would help build your rapport. The other part was because YOU were the one working on YOUR birthday. You were 26 years old and was very capable of making your own fucking decisions.

“I mean you could, Y/N.” “I told you I got u-“

“And I definitely told you I didn’t need you taking care of me with your money, Michael.” You asserted yourself. This was an argument you both had always had. Him wanting you to not work or at least not as hard. Then you letting him know that you wouldn’t just live off of him just because he was a famous actor and your boyfriend of 4 years.

“It’s not about the fucking money but you know what happy birthday.” Rising from the bed he tossed a black jewelry box on the bed and made his exit.

“Really? Jellybean head ass niggah.” You mumbled not even bothering with the box because you knew it would only piss you off further because of how he just tossed it. “Yeah... happy fucking birthday, bitch.” You sighed taking a swig of Red Berry Ciroc before walking out of the door.

*******************************************************

‘A$AP fuckin’ Rocky.’ You thought as you walked into the shoot. Your manager had definitely made your birthday with this Calvin Klein ad.

“This is your gift.” Latavia smiled watching you set up your camera. “I know you’re in love with him.” She chuckled. “I mean aside from Michael Bae Jordan.”

“Well Bae is definitely mad and being childish but this definitely makes up for it.” You smiled sinisterly as you watched Rocky pull the CK jeans over the slim fit boxers. “Definitely.” Catching a glimpse of his print.

“Well I’ll leave you to it, Y/N.” She called back typing on her phone.

“What’s good?” He smiled at you before sitting on the gold ol’ skool bike.

“Hey. I’m Y/N. Ready to get started?” You smiled showing casing your pearly whites as you placed you curly hair into a high pineapple.

Nodding quickly, Rocky did slight poses as your camera clicked and flashed. Star struck wasn’t the word you were more like beauty struck. This man was chocolate, beautiful, in shape , nice smile and once more beautiful as hell. You definitely remembered the crush you had on him pre-Michael Bae Jordan.

“Like what you see or sum?” He smirked as you realized you had been staring more than you had been shooting. “‘Cuz I definitely see sum’ I like.” He was flirting and you couldn’t help but to do the same.

“Uh just making sure you’re in the right light.“ “Can’t have all that chocolate looking washed out.” You smirked allowing him to see some of the shots. He had pulled you into his embrace as he looked over your shoulder at the pictures.

“Oh you’re real deal?” He chuckled licking over his lips. “I told my manager to find me a pretty lil ass women to snap my shit. Figured they just had you here to satisfy me.” His devilish grin set in as he whispered in your ear. “But now that I know you good at your job I’m definitely pleased.”

“Well I aim to plea-“ Hearing your phone sound off, you immediately snapped out of your flirtation and apologized for the phone interruption. “What?” You snapped quietly.

“Are you done?” He questioned. His voice was relaxed meaning he wasn’t mad anymore which ultimately made you feel guilty and pissed you off.

“Jus-Just a few more shoots.” You mumbled letting the guilt set in.

“I’ll see you at home.”

Hearing the beeps in your ear, you’d realized that he had hung up on you. Yeah you had definitely fucked up. ‘Happy fucking birthday.’ You thought.

*******************************************************

Although you had stayed 3 extra hours after talking to Mike, you had cut you shoot short due to your guilt. Yeah all you did was do a tad bit of flirting but you had a man at home. A famous fine ass sweet ass loving ass man at home.

“Baby?” You yelled as you open the door of your shared home. “Mi-“ Seeing the black balloons in the air, the dim lit room and the soft r&b play in the background, you broke down. You had seen the wine set out in melted ice, cupcakes from you favorite bakery and that’s when you knew you had really fucked up.

“5 hours Y/N?” His voice had scared you straight. Your tears had been slowly drying up. “5 hours to take some damn pictures?”

“Baby, I’m sorry. This is beautiful. I love you! I missed you!” You fired off as he moved towards you. His eyes were trained on you and you dared not to move as he circled around you. Something was off about Mike and you couldn’t tell what. Maybe you had real pissed him off this time especially since you could smell a hint of liquor on his breath.

“Put this on and go wait for me.” Michael had handed you a long black garment box with a red ribbon before you made your walk of shame to the bedroom.

Pulling your work clothes off you figured a shower wouldn’t hurt considering he was already upset and it was your fucking birthday. “Get your shit together, Y/N.” You coached as you looked at yourself in the lacy black lingerie. Between your breast almost popping out of the deep low v cut, your ass hanging out of the back and the thin fabric leaving nothing to the imagination, you were completely surprised by Michael’s choice. You styled your kinky coils a bit before walking out of the bathroom.

Michael was already in the bedroom waiting for you. “Took you long enough.” He smirked shocking you. “You had me waiting so on your knees.” You didn’t know what had came over him but you actually liked it. ‘Maybe you should piss him off more.’ You thought. Scrambling to your knees, you felt Mike behind you with a piece of fabric. “Close yah eyes.” He coached shielding your eyes then tying your hands.

Hearing a clicking noise, your became nervous. Yeah you trusted Mike but this wasn’t the Mike you were use to. “Y/N, Y/N, Y/N.” He touched your cheek before stroking your bottom lip with the pad of his thumb. “You been playing with me.” He spoke cupping your neck. “Testing me. You like testing me?” He asked applying pressure and slipping two of his thick fingers inside of your one piece rubbing you clit slightly.

You hadn’t spoke. Partly because you were becoming turned on and also because he was starting to apply too much pressure.

“Answer Daddy.”’

“Ye-ye-yes.”’ You let out softly.

“Yes what?” He was so close to your eat that you could feel the breath and smell the Ciroc.

“Yes Daddy.” You mumbled feeling his tongue drag from your ear to your neck. Sucking on your tender spot you began to moan. Feeling his hand travel down to your breast, you couldn’t help but to halt your breathing as he pinched you right nipple through the thin lace. The fingers on his other hand slight pinched and rubbed your clit even more.

“Stand.” He commanded still caressing your nipple. You felt his fingers off of your nipple and your clit but instead peeling the lingerie off of your body. “Wet already?” You could sense the smirk on his face which only made things more interesting and irritated the hell out of you because you couldn’t see a thing.

Once again you could hear clicks in front of you as you stood there naked and tied up. “Daddy, what’s that?” You mumbled.

“Back on your knees.” He commanded disregarding your question. “Open your mouth.”

Licking your lips you felt the tip of his dick near the corner. You’d always loved giving your man head but honestly you would get off yourself if you could watch the satisfaction on his face. “Daddy can I watch?” You ask completely ready to get your man and yourself to cum.

“Nah.” He chuckled. “Punishment baby girl.”

“But-“ His dick had completely caught you off guard entering your mouth mid sentence. You wrapped your lips around your man’s girthy member allowing your tongue to do most of the work since you were still tied up. Swirling it around from the base to the tip, you had started to become wet all over again.

“Fuck.” He mumbled as your head bobbed up and down taking him all in relaxing your throat. You were forming a trail of spit on the corners of your mouth and you could care less. The sloppier the better. “Keep that up, baby girl.” He moaned slightly which only fueled you to go harder. He’d palmed the back of your head fucking your throat. You were gagging and could barely breath but if you died ... so be it! Popping your lips from his dick you started to give attention to his balls. Licking them before placing them in your mouth and sucking slightly swirling your tongue around them. His breath had halted at the sensation.

“Nut Daddy.” You encouraged as you went back to giving all you attention to his rock hard dick. Your tied wrist that hung in front of you found their way to your dripping center. “Please.” You begged wanting to taste your man’s kids hit the back of your throat as you began playing with yourself. Finally feeling him twitch and the warm liquid mix with your spit, you gladly took all your man’s warm seeds down your throat sending yourself into an orgasmic frenzy. “I love you.” You called out feeling him guide you towards the plush California king bed.

“Love you too, ma.” You could feel him pushing your face into the bed while your bare ass sat up in the air allowing the cool air to hit the wetness between your legs. “Arch that back, Y/N.” He spoke sending a small smack to your pussy.

“Fuck!” You hissed out in slight pain. Two of his thick fingers had found there way to your center slipping into it to call down the stinging sensation.

“When I tell you some shit you gon listen?” He questioned pumping in and out of you faster and using his thumb to vibrate on your clit. You couldn’t speak due to the upcoming orgasm. You went to move your hips attempting to throw your as back on his fingers. “Answer me!” He snapped pulling them out and giving you right cheek a harder slap. “When I tell you not to go to fucking work, are you going?” He’d smacked your left cheek.

“No!” You cried out wanting to feel him anywhere on you. You were literally crying real tears from the pain and pleasure. “I’ll stay home, baby!” You moaned as you heard the clicking noise again.

“Good girl.” His plump lips had began to kiss you center before his tongue attacked your wetness. You spread your legs further allowing his tongue to slip inside of you before you began to throw it back against your man’s tongue.

“Yes Daddy! Fuck me baby. PLEASE!” You begged as your covered eyes rolled to the back of your head and the tears formed again. He had added two fingers along with his tongue. “Damnit!” You grunted as your legs shook violently before cumming. “Ssss-stop, Daddy.” You begged as he continued to devour you through your orgasm. “I’m cummin’.

“Shit.” He groaned taking the blindfold from your eyes. Your eyes were still closed as he kissed you viciously allowing you to taste your own sweetness.

Your eyes adjusted to the light as he pulled away from you. He was staring at you like you were the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen but you were most definitely sure that your eye makeup was ruined especially your mascara from the tears of pleasure. Looking over at Michael his mustache and lips were glistening from your juices. “Smile.” He smirked holding up the Polaroid camera as the familiar clicks sounded off.

“You’ve been taking my picture? You questioned as he untied your wrist looking at all the pictures of you on the bed.

“That’s all you cared about earlier. Getting them fucking pictures done.” He scoffed tapping on your thigh. “So why not see what was so interesting in doing that shit.” He smirked taking another photo of his fingers slipping again into your wetness.

“Shit.” You mumbled as the cameras clicks went off. “Lemme see.” Your eyes twinkled taking the camera from him. You had started to snap a few of your man before placing the camera on the edge of the bed setting it to the multiple shot self timer. “Fuck me.” You spoke flipping again on your stomach arching your back so your ass was in the air.

Aligning himself with your entrance, Michael slipped into your wetness fully with ease. “Wet as fuck.” He commented as he began to stroke inside of you. Between your man’s dick and the clicks of the camera you wanted to put on the ultimate show so you could remember this night although you knew your legs would for the next couple of days.

“Faster baby!” You yelled throwing your ass back again attempting to follow Michael’s rhythm as he began to fuck you senseless.

Feeling the smacks your ass cheeks then your hair being gripped the tears were coming down again. “Shit!” You cried tightening your walls against his dick. “I love you, Michael! I love you.” You had attempted to take control but ultimately failed as you collapsed on the bed letting your juices leak from your sore throbbing center. “Cum inside of me...” You moaned. “Please.”

Hearing the curse words under his breath, Michael grabbed your neck giving it light squeeze thrusting harder inside of you. You could tell he was on edge and you wanted nothing more than your man emptying the contents of his dick inside of you. Did you want kids right now... no but you would deal with the consequences later. Today was your birthday and right now you were 26 and invincible. “Open your mouth.” He groaned attempt to slip out of your pussy because he knew it was just the sex talking all that ‘come inside of me’ bullshit.

“No!” You demanded tightening around him biting your lips. “Inside of me, Daddy.” “I want your kids ... I want you.” You reasoned crying out as he groaned honoring your request.

“Love me enough to marry me?” He asked sleepily biting then kissing your shoulder as he cuddled against your body to weak to pull out.

Tensing up, you slipped from under him before looking at him in the eyes. “What?” “What did you say?”

“Marry me, Y/N.” Pulling the black box from this morning out of his nightstand, he looked at you seriously.

You were stunned. Leave it to Michael to not only give you great birthday dick but to ask you to marry him afterwards. “I-ye-wait. What?!“ You were crying and tripping over your words. You’d jumped off the bed realizing your legs were jelly.

“Y/N, tell me something baby.” He pulled you back into the bed with him.

Taking a deep breath, you shook your head frantically. “YES! Yes I’ll marry you.” You cried kissing him. “I’ll be your wife.”

“I love you. Happy birthday, baby girl.”

“I love you too.”

‘Happy fucking birthday indeed.’ You thought cuddling up to your fiancé.

[daddiesgirlsff]

MEET THE CAST!! More cast members will be added as the story progresses. Click on the photos to reveal names

[seenoevil-ff]

7 ✝ A Funeral

“It is * * * Death alone that can suddenly make man to know himself.” –Sir Walter Raleigh, The History of the World (1614).

Nunc lento sonitu dicunt, morieris

Now this bell tolling softly for another,

says to me, Thou must die. – John Donne, Meditation 17 (1624)

XAVIER

The stifled sobs of my mother rang in my head repeatedly.  

She screamed and pounded her balled fists against my brother’s chest, outraged. Her arms flailing, the stench of blood permeating the air. While I was just unable to move from my position, I stared blankly at the lifeless body of the man I knew to be my father.

That he was dead. Carver Brown was deceased.

I wasn't all sure what I had just done but apparently it was enough for my mother to be as broken as she was. My eyes watered, I could feel my heart rate quickening again but this time I was in a state of panic. There were sirens surrounding us when my mother finally wandered over to my father’s body. Cheeks stained from her tears, she palmed his face as she sobbed uncontrollably. Her body shaking while attempting to form a coherent sentence. 

I did this. 

I clenched my jaw tightly as tears fell down my cheeks, my brother silently crying out. My hands trembled uncontrollably as I stood to my feet to walk to the front doors of the headquarters. Even though it was understood that jail was never an option again, I was prepared to surrender. The past two days have been turbulent – while I had a lot to be thankful for with the birth of my son there was so much to follow afterwards. A big event followed by a series of crippling and impactful events.

“Yo..Xae what you doing man?” Maddox questioned, lifting his head. His eyes widened when he noticed exactly what I was planning to do.

“I’ve fucked up.” I mumbled while staring at the numerous police cars parking in front of the building.

“Don’t say that shit bro, you snapped…you fucking snapped.” 

As hard as he tried, there was no excusing my actions. He knew it. Murder was the most serious of the crimes I’ve committed, never getting caught there was a rush but the victim was my own blood. I didn’t feel he would be served any justice unless some kind of punishment was delivered to me. I had barely any fight in me to go against the system built to kill men like me.My mother was so broken by her grief and guilt, she didn’t even realize the reality of the situation. Her husband was dead, her only child was going to be imprisoned.

“You really are unrecognizable with this weak shit at the moment.” I heard Zane comment.

“You did this….” I whispered back to him.

“It was rightfully so, you heard with your own ears yet you want to be blind to the truth. Go ahead and kneel.” His words echoed until I could no longer hear him.

The police burst through the doors with guns drawn. “NYPD! On the ground now!”

The SWAT officers stormed in to restrain me as one pinned me against the wall, giving the others a chance to handcuff me. Detectives that I recognized and knew on first name basis walked right past me to my father’s body. When Maddox protested he was threatened with jail time and a murder accomplice charge, there were no questions asked because they couldn’t wait to book me for the crime. They had a win. When we arrived at the 19th precinct, I was processed and held after my rights were read. I chose not to speak so for all they knew I was mute. Even when the detectives threw out photos of Carver’s carcass I was still unbothered or appearing that way. The entire time I was held in that small cell there was only time to think about what was said. My thoughts also drifted to Rakim along with his purpose for initiating this. There were ample of ways to kill my father but he chose this route. 

Revenge was now my goal.

For now I simply utilized some of the solitude to grieve my father that had raised me. Over the years, Carver was a difficult man to live with sometimes but he did have his moments as a loving parent. Closing my eyes, I allowed myself to reminisce, back to when I was only four years old.

“So you really are just going to give up like this? What the fuck did we talk about yesterday?” I heard Belial speak.

My eyebrows furrowed as I opened my eyes, “How did you get in here?” That was all I could ask, keeping as calm or normal as possible. She stood with her body leaning against the wall, arms folded with her lips pouted. A chuckle left her lips as she tucked her hair behind her ear.

“So your father is dead and you decided to take the wrap for it, never thought you would kneel for Rakim…” Belial decided to sit on a bench, crossing her legs. 

“I killed him…” I mumbled. “I killed him because something in me had to do it, he told me something… and I just lost it.”

“Damn right you did. I don’t fucking like the guy that much but why take liberty to stab him anyhow? He was shot, you could have done nothing. Remember you have son, nobody will be able to bail you out of bullshit constantly.”

“I really don’t need you preaching right now, Reina.” I added heavy emphasis on her former name, the name that had long since been shed from her. A scoff then a cackle left her lips, her movements became paces. When her heels stopped clicking in the small space, her head turned in my direction. 

“Far from a preacher, but wasn’t it you promising or wanting to not make the same mistakes that you supposedly left in the past?” she inquired.

“I did.” I remarked.

“Then stop fucking up.” With those words she turned on her heels and was gone again, disappearing to whatever circle of Hell she had come back from.

Much time had already passed since my imprisonment. Apparently it had gone so quickly that I found myself meeting the morning sunrise. The holding area had become busy and noisy so sleep was no longer achievable. I chose to sit in my cell to await my time while thinking of my last move. There was absolutely no doubt in my mind that Rakim would feel the vengeance for my father. If he didn’t know death or destruction before, he would know it now. I guess one thing his mother didn’t fucking teach him was manners—better still she hadn’t taught him the consequences of not respecting your elders. He will know my name and my wrath in every degree. That was my promise. 

When the cell doors opened with a loud clank, the deputy called out my name. “Brown! You’re free to go. Someone loves you enough to pay that big ass bill on your head.”

Someone loves me enough is right.

MADDOX

In just twenty four hours, my entire family begun to fall to pieces.

Shiloh nearly lost her life giving birth to my nephew, my brother goes missing only to appear again at a meeting, our father is murdered, and now my mother is completely inconsolable. This was an eventful couple of days and now I sit outside of the precinct awaiting my brother to exit the front doors. My eyes darted on occasion while I closely observe my surroundings—at this point we had to remain alert. Rakim had gotten the upper hand just like he wanted. Lucifer’s death would weaken us or just maiming him would. Never would I have thought my own brother would finish the act but there was way more to this story. 

All we needed was answers.

The first words I could hear from Xavier was him cursing out the officers as he exited.That brother of mine, my blood, you couldn’t help but love him. There was a slight tension between us because of what occurred, he felt he needed to isolate instead of closely analyzing the situation without ripping himself to pieces.

I watched him and the continuous bickering until I stepped up closer to the front entryway to grab the back of his shirt. With a gentle tugging, I pull him to my side in a headlock. 

“If you didn’t already pay attention, the entire precinct and task force have a hard on for you. Quit while you’re ahead.”

“Everybody hates Xavier, everybody…the list is growing bro. I breathe and it’s an issue.” He chose to find humor in the situation but I knew him very well.

I closely studied his demeanor. 

He was more quiet than normal so the remaining question was what exactly was happening inside of his head. I didn’t know what to say or do because I was grieving myself. But I didn’t blame him for what happened, because our father had already been badly wounded… there was no way of knowing if he’d make it if the stabbing didn’t occur. Always have I been the one to comfort and protect my brother — in this situation I didn’t know how.

Once we pulled up to our mother’s home, he hasn’t budged from the passenger side door. Recognizing his stubborn nature, I chuckled then stepped out to leave him to his devices. He’d eventually enter the house on his own. Scarlett immediately met me at the door with her eyes bloodshot red. 

Her voice was solemn as she called for Xavier and for a brief moment I saw that connection. Mother and son were in an emotional war. She loved him, he loved her and hated himself, apart of her was uncertainty as to who he was. 

“Mama... you both need to talk. You both need this...” I urged. 

“Yeah… you’re absolutely right.” Her voice cracked as more tears threatened to fall. 

She was indeed trying her best not to cry again. Scarlett gathered her strength and began walking toward the car. Xavier opened the passenger door to immediately pull her into an embrace, causing her to sob once more. After a brief moment the pair walked back toward the house. It was time to prepare to bury our father. It was indeed a funeral of the century..

AMANI

I had definitely lost track of whether it was day or night. 

The cold beads of sweat that had formed on my forehead caused me to shake slightly. Lately I had been having a lot of those, nightmares, I couldn’t exactly remember or understand what they were about but it was something about today. Today was the day I felt my life was going to change drastically. I breathed in the smell of marijuana smoke, huffing as I curled my naked body under the covers. I was waiting to hear a voice, to hear some familiarity. If it had been Rakim — I would have rather played dead. 

“You do know… your bourgeois ass can’t sit in the bed all day.” A voice I recognized stated.

I turned my head while clutching the sheet close to my body to cover my breasts and the rest of my frame.

“Who said I would sleep all day? Maybe I want to be fucking left alone?” I shot back. It was the attitude of “I’m supposed to keep watch over you.. take that up with my brother.” 

It was Terrell. 

I couldn’t help but chuckle. A soft smirk appeared on my face as he began to swallow hard, it was always fun to watch these niggas sweat over a woman like me. I dropped the sheet and began to run my fingers through my messy tresses. 

As a captive and Rakim’s alleged guest, I may as well put on a little show. I strutted toward the bathroom with my hips swaying ever so seductively.

“So you’re going to watch me get dressed as well?” I purred. 

His expression was priceless and a bit of a turn on as I twirled in the mirror. My fingers brushed against my puffy folds, sliding them against my clit. 

“Uh... nah.. Ima let you handle your shit. I’ll be outside the door, we can’t be late.” Terrell’s face turned beet red as he rushed out of the room, leaving me to wash myself in peace.

My daily routine was that I would awake to someone watching me as though I were a child. So why not have a little fun in the process and taunt my “babysitters”? Rakim has his work cut out for him if he thinks I’m not going to defy him. He isn’t my father nor my man but that sense of having control apparently strokes his ego, my defiance excites him for some reason. I can only imagine that’s why he keeps me alive..

A black some what form fitting Vera Wang dress, a large black hat to sport with matching heels seemed approapriate enough for church. It had been years since I can recall setting foot in one but the process of a funeral I knew all too well. When I exited the bedroom, I saw all of the men gathered in the hallway. They were definitely good looking, fine as wine despite the attitudes they carried. Rakim flashed a bright grin, revealing his pearly whites as he wrapped his arm around my waist firmly. 

“As my date, I have a proposition for you...” 

“And that is?” I replied.

“To look just as beautiful as you are... you’re going to make someone a very happy man.” 

The statement somewhat confused me, my brow lifted and my face twisted. There had to be a reason for this feeling I was having. We arrived at the church to see an entire line of cars. The turn out for a man named Carver Brown was indeed grand. When we stepped out of the car, it was Rakim who coached us to remain incognito. I refused to put on shades because these people didn’t even know me or anything about me. Once my eyes fell upon whom I believed was Carver’s wife, I lowered my head to walk toward the church, her cries growing louder. 

The closer I stepped to the church, that feeling began growing and the visions that clouded my head wreaked havoc within me. There was a little boy, with bright eyes, a smirk, a man draped in black with skin as pale as the moon...terrifying eyes. There was this laughter and an infant that I didn’t recognized. I had ran face first into someone which caused me to stumble. 

“Oh... I’m so sorry!” I spoke. 

When I looked up into those eyes..I felt weak.

“I...I...uhm... excuse me.” I mumbled.

“You good.” He replied.

When the doors of the church were opened to those who remained after the family. I no longer wanted to sit with Rakim. I was much too curious. The pastor began the ceremony, the choir singing their hymns but I noticed that the man I bumped into began to fidget and shake. The outbursts of cries from his family and some close friends caused me to feel something that I was truly unable to feel since my mother had died. The shredding sadness, that same pain resurfaced—I felt grief for people I didn’t even know. 

When it was time for eulogies, everyone was broken down and the funeral soon came to a benediction. It was time for them to bury... as everyone stood and it was time for the pallbearers to lift the casket, there was gunfire. I ducked and covered myself as everyone in the pews behind me scrambled. The moment my body hit the floor, my eyes made contact with an infant, with those eyes... the same eyes as the man I had bumped into prior before entering the church. 

Before I could even move, I felt someone sheild me from the barrage of bullets that came flying toward me.

ZANE

Back to reality. 

I didn’t even know this girl....but I wanted her. I dove head first into the gunfire just to save her which was something I never truly cared to do. I roughly shoved her into the pews with the other bystanders to fire back at Rakim and his goons. Maddox was hot on my trail as others followed my lead, little did he realized he had entered the church out manned and over powered. The disrespecting of Carver’s homegoing indeed sparked an outrage. It was my family that was in danger, my family being disrespected.

There was no other choice but to fight back. 

“Yo pull back man!” Rakim barked as they began to take cover and run from the church. No one was leaving until I put a bullet in them. The last bullet to discharge had pierced whom I assumed to believe was Rakim’s shoulder. 

“Ah!” The smell of his poisonous blood filled the air, I definitely got him but there was no way this bullet would kill him.

Until next time...

I finally turned to face the beautiful woman I saw behind me, but she was already gone. My eyebrows furrowed as I finally ran from the church to see if she would be spotted in the streets. 

Nothing. 

“Fuck....” I mumbled. Something in me said I would see her again but I was still curious... 

“Who was she?” Xavier and I finally spoke aloud in complete sync.            

[materialgirlsfanfic]

Chapter 10: Affordable Prices To Pay...(Pt. 1)

KIERSTEN

“Boy you’ll be the death of me, you’re my James Dean you make me feel like I’m seventeen…” - BEYONCE X RATHER DIE YOUNG

TWO MONTHS LATER…

“Sweetie, like always when you get into one of your moods you dip off, and close everyone off  like we can’t resolve things like adults. Call me back.”

…..

“Bitch! I want to actually see you, IN person for brunch this weekend, mmmkay!? You got London on the verge of tears talking about you keep blowing her off, and even my dad has been asking for you! The project is not that deep, ain’t nobody about to be playing hide and seek with yo’ ass either. Call me hoe!

…..

“Hey Kiersten, its Jessie. Just checking in to see if we’re still good for Friday, at 7pm. We still have to discuss the little things like donors, designs, and the guest appearances for the show. But no worries! We’re almost done with everything. See you soon!”

….  

“Hey, sweetheart. It’s dad, I know you may be busy with school, and your work but I wanted to discuss some things with you. I don’t like going this long without out talking to you sweet pea. Let’s do dinner Sunday. Love you, call me soon.”

…….

“Honey, I’m doing an interview with Vogue for Models On Duty, and I’ll be teaming up with June Ambrose and Ashley Graham, I’d love you to be involved. June asked for you. Being as though you aren’t answering me at least. Call her. Back.

……

“Baby girl, I’ll be swingin’ your way shortly. Give me like an hour. I had to meet with this nigga to discuss somethin’ for the club, you know how that goes. But I’m ‘bout to stop at your favorite spot. Let me know what you want.”

……

“It’s your mother again, you know the one that brought you into this world. That was in labor for 16 hours over you Kiersten Stephanie Whitaker! You’re really behaving despicably! Two months! People are asking questions and growing concerned honey, Please!

…….

She was never fond of pet names. Terms of endearment made for coddling, or pacifying sometimes expressed in a  condescending manner that made her blood boil. Well pet names from her. She placed her phone down after shooting a few texts out, and deleting the majority of voice messages.

Amongst the seven, three voicemails belonged to the woman that birthed her that bordered hysteria, even at the calmest level of her tone. She could picture Fiona Whitaker swallowed in the high priced mansion where the walls were caving in with her stricken with loneliness. Where she was accompanied solely by a wine bottle, Marlboro cigarettes and a broken heart. Coping methods to perpetuate the sickness that will certainly take more than medical assistance to cure. She was sweetie in a drunken slur on most nights, honey when anger was on the surface of aggravation, and love when on the brink of being dismissed for what her mother deemed as a trivial manner.

Kiersten grimaced, setting down the chiffon material meant for sewing, that she couldn’t even attempt to make happen. She wished the internal battles didn’t always make her the common casualty from her mother’s assaults.  So much so, the name coddling was salt poured onto more opened wounds. I’m not a child. Slightly started, she felt the calloused hands caress her shoulders that trailed to her wrist, and finally her hands, spreading them out beneath his large ones.

But when he called her baby? Mmm. Spoken in that gruff bravado was enough to make her knees buckle. The warm  fuzzy feeling of contentment growing fonder these past months as she inhaled his distinctive scent of wood and spice.

“What you in here stressin’ about? I can feel that shit all the way from the other room.” Was her transparency that evident? Kiersten smiled smally as his lips reached her temple causing her to get further cocooned.

“I’m not stressing.” What a lie, Kiersten. Do better.

“Oh, yeah?” She could feel Messiah’s eyes boring through her as she attempted at pulling away. The makeshift desk on her vanity made up of her sewing machine, and kit only providing but so much room for her to find an escape out of her gratefully enormous walk in closet. Or as Messiah would put it: ‘Your couture bedroom’. His pronunciation of couture (CAH - tour) always causing to giggle like an idiot.

“Yeahhh.”

“Nah, stay your little ass in place.”

“Come on‘ Si, I’m working. No interruptions when we’re in our zones remember?”

“Na. I ain’t tryna hear all that baby girl. You been in here too quiet, for too long…” She felt the scruffiness of his beard nestle close to her face as they both looked into the vanity mirror, cheeks pressed together. “Damn you’re gorgeous.”

“Thank you. I appreciate that soooo much. Now, move. I wasn’t quiet but moreso focused.” She pointed down to the mop of materials to sew in front of her. “As you can see.”

“Come on mami. Come take a break.”

“Nooo, Messiah I have a deadline. You’ve been distracting me enough!” She was becoming accustomed to this… routine of there’s for lack of better words. Conforming to the ways of a hermit, Kiersten for the past month shielded away the outside world as she remained ducked and hidden in her condo. With only the exception of classes, work, and random trips to Mood fabric store, she limited herself of any social interaction. Her excuses being senior projects, creative assistant duties, and lastly the silent emergence of depression coasting that she couldn’t get a hold of. So like usual she figured solitude the best remedy. But not to London, and Brooklyne who have boarded stalking by the definition. And she couldn’t blame them. The only form of communication she was accepting was rushed over phone convos, scarce FaceTime calls, and texting at best. But a particular gentleman, a Brooklyn specimen, who wasn’t accepting the limits Kiersten was dishing out, wanted all in.

So from random pop ups, to persistent contact of the physical kind, he was the only one she was really allowing access.

But having a man of Messiah’s caliber coexist in her presence, and actually wanting to be there, was still mind boggling. Wanting to provide an ear, offer consolement to even something so trivial as a missing earring. Where, as if it was second nature or a necessity for the completion of his day, having to know the condition of her well being, and being in close proximity to receive it. Not to mention he always wanted to touch her. Always.

She inhaled a soft breath feeling herself being lifted and pulled to his steel chest, where a pinch to her ass cheek was then given, causing her to squeal.

“Eeeeee! Messiah, stop! Wha- for one I’m entirely too heavy for this, what are you-?”

“Shut that shit up, it look like I’m having a hard time holding you?”

“I didn’t say that, Messiah. I just…okay. I can spare an hour then I have to get right back to work. You’re so impossible, like seriously.” Wedged between the rock solid arms of him, was Kiersten escorted to the confines of her kitchen and sat down on the cool surface of the countertop, causing her to tug at her shorts. Exasperation was displayed as she watched him pull out various items from her cabinets and freezer. So much for that hour break.

“You know what you need, Keeks?” It wasn’t a guess that the question was posed rhetorically, but she now found herself contemplating heavily. What do I need? Her feet swung back and forth waiting, while allowing her eyes to latch onto the define muscles of his back as he maneuvered around the kitchen preparing a meal she had yet to identify.

“Besides these cute fuchsia Manolo pumps I seen, today?”

“…To get out this house…a peace of mind.” They were face to face now. Him coming towards her with a bowl filled with mixed vegetables, and a neutral expression that bordered him examining. Kiersten figeted reaching for the bowl to occupy her hands that she nervously toiled together looking back at him. But he dodged it out of her reach, and locked her in between his hands that framed her, setting the bowl by them. “How long you gon’ be hidin’, usin’ work as a scapegoat?”

“That’s not what I’m doing. So don’t…don’t try and psychoanalyze me, ‘kay?”

“That’s what you think I’m doin’? ‘Psychoanalyzin’ you like you some nutcase, or I’m a shrink?”

“Messi-”

“Nah, fuck that. So I’m not ‘spose to ask these questions? Like I’m not hip to what you doin’. You’re buying time, and shit to avoid what? Tell me why I’m here, if it’s not to be concerned but your damn well being Ki?”  

“Listen, okay? I just need you to be…” Here. For as long as I need you to be. With me not having to feel like the other shoe is bound to fall any day now.She felt the emergence of tears, and gritted her teeth, now pushing him back lowering her head.

“Don’t be a fuckin’ coward. We not doin’ that shit. I told you that. Talk to me. Finish what you was about to say, and look at me. You need me to what? Be here? Hold you? Feed you? What? Pacify you? Keep you locked in and throw away the key? What, Kiersten?”

“Just be present!” From that tiny place engulfed in her stomach where the grueling feeling of turmoil resided, was the shout’s source. Messiah remained unmoved and focused, waiting for her to continue. “…like now. Messiah, just continue to make me feel like I’m not going crazy, and by myself. Please.”

He nodded. She exhaled. He cooked. She watched, and the night continued as was.

BROOKLYNE

97…98…99-

“Sorry to disturb you baby girl, but you got a minute?”

Benjamin Pierre’s presence, just like his coffee, was served strong. Like the emergence of the rigid taste of the straight black caffeinated beverage on one’s tongue, as expected it was, it still took you aback. The distinction being that stern. Her father’s deep brown melanin seemingly glowed under any light that further highlighted his strikingly handsome features; the eyes that matched her own stared at her for moments of intensity, with urgency in the midst of. She placed a halt in her morning exercise of 100 plies, and barre work giving him her full attention.

“For my favorite old man, of course. What’s up, pops?”

“Fiona contacted me…” Aw, shit. “What’s this I hear about Kiersten’s blatant refusal to go home?”

“That’s what she told you?”

“Yes, so much more. But that’s just the half.” In Brooklyne’s bedroom at an early 9:43am was a stare off. Meddling in normalcy, but she was sure wasn’t to last much longer as that thick bushy brow of his rose. Following the cross of his arms, and the tilt of his head. But Brooklyne wasn’t London. She didn’t crack under pressure easily or allowed any of Benjamin Pierre’s typical courtroom intimidating tactics to shake her the least bit. After all, I am my father’s child.

“Hm, not sure daddy…that’s strange. Last I spoke to her things were fine. And she was definitely home. FaceTimed her and everything seeing she was right in her bedroom.” Yeah, to pack the last box I was to swing by and pick up to finish decorating.

“Is that right? So when was this?”

“A…couple days ago? Yeah, Tuesday.”

“Hm. Interesting. Look, Brooklyne…two things I need you to understand if you haven’t by now…” Through a sip of her chilled bottle of Fiji water, Brooklyne concealed a gulp of concern. It’s one thing for her father to intimidate for answers, it’s another when he already knew them, she supposed, and was behind the fire of checking. “I find out everything. No matter the time of delay it maybe. No matter the circumstance, I…do. It’s what I get paid for, as you know.”

“Dad-”

“So, if and when you hear from Kiersten again and she turns out to actually be “fine” like you say she is? Tell her to call her mother. Thanks, babygirl.”

Brooklyne flopped on the bed huffing heavily.

“This too much.”

———

You’re missing me, I’m missing you

Whenever we meet, we ain’t gonna get no sleep

When I get to be together with you

It’s fait accompli, we ain’t gonna get no sleep

Slick. The droplets that trailed down his steel abdominals, flexed and illuminated his cream complexion. Under the soft light in the studio his shadow trailed closely behind as it remained in sync with Janet Jackson’s “No Sleeep”. Brooklyn seeped in light breaths, as she remained tucked away and hidden by the barre. Taking peeks was growing tiresome like her thighs, she surpassed a little warm up to get started. At this point she was truly stalling. Why am I even doing this?

“So, we startin’ from the second verse…you ready?” Lord knows I’m not.

“Mind explaining to me what’s this for again? I’m not a hip-hop dancer, we know this.”

The heat of his body radiated onto her own as he stepped forward and stood behind her. There in the ceiling to floor mirror was the detection from Brooklyne’s view, trouble. Not a simple attempt of a duet or a pas de deux rather insisted by his mother, her instructor from hell.

“As you know The Joffrey Ballet intensive my mother is instructing has a hiplet component. A mix of hip-hop an-”

“…and Ballet, Tahj. I know, hip-hop on pointe shoes. Yes, she explained this. But why me? Did you insist this little arrangement?”

“Don’t flatter yourself, Brooke. She did, actually.” She turned to him and searched his face. “I don’t know…for some strange reason she has this idea that you’re good enough. Let’s get this shit over with.”

She sneered at his sarcasm, tying her hair back. An hour in as she began feeling perspiration coat her skin, she was finally able to blur out the ridicule she felt. Taking this exactly for what it was which was simply a dance demonstration for a bunch of high school students that should last no more than four minutes.

“Shit!” A stub of her toe caused her attitude to look less than stellar, as she tripped into an awkward fourth position. From her peripheral she could see his bemusement.

“Don’t overextend your back like that. The fuck you tryin’ to do? Break it?”

“Since when did you become an expert of ballet? Focus on poplockin’ nigga.”

“You forgettin’ who my mother is? You been in her class long enough, to just be makin’ common fuck ups. What…” He walked closer to her side of the studio. “You nervous?”

“I twisted my ankle, right before the senior showcase…the senior showcase that had Juilliard talent scouts, and the director of Ailey in the audience. Guess who was accepted to both? Tahj…don’t insult me. Can we start from the top, please?” She went to her cue in stance of releve with her arms in Egyptian pose.

“…You were perfect.” She would’ve missed it, had it not been so quiet you could hear a mouse piss on cotton, as he muttered it so quickly.

“What?”

“You heard me nigga…that’s what got you accepted, right? Now, from the top.”

[collateralfiction]

06

Bailey

Laughter has to be the best medicine that can cure all evils. That's all I needed to forget about all my issues and problems. Not to mention, I was slightly buzzed but I needed that. I needed to relax before I drive myself into a serious panic attack. Ryan had never bothered to return any of my calls or text messages, so I simply stopped trying. By the time we were all settled around the dining table, enjoying the home cooked meal my mother made, I knew that Ryan wasn't going to show. Was I disappointed? No. Did I feel bad that my mother was counting on him to come and he didn't show? Yes. Ever since I revealed what was bothering me the past week or so, it seems like Ryan has been distant, mentally. Although it hasn't even been a full two days, things just feel different and I go off on my basic instincts because they never seem to fail. This just goes to show, you can only rely on yourself no matter what. At least if you fall, you'll be to blame.

Taking a sip of my fruity drink I concocted myself, I looked on, watching Chance and my mother attempt to dance. My eyes were glued to my iPhone, waiting for a simple message from Ryan to appear. Although I stopped trying, I wanted to see if he would make the attempt to reach out to me. Did he call and tell me that he wouldn't? No but I knew better but wanted to think positively. I had called at least four times and all four times had went straight towards his voice mail. At this point, I didn't know what to think or believe anymore. Ever since admitting to Ryan about Adrian, the distance between the two of us has been reinforced. At this point, there should no distance whatsoever. Sadly, there is, and I can't do much about it. Groaning irritably, I chucked my phone on the glass table and winced once I heard it come in contact with the table. However, due to the loud music erupting from the stereo, the noise went unnoticed; only I heard.

Even with me being surrounded by my family, at times, my thoughts still seemed to eat away at me. This definitely called for a time to refill my beverage. Removing myself from the chair, I slowly walked out of the backyard and towards the sliding doors. Once I was on the other side of the door, I trailed towards the kitchen and began to refill my drink of choice, mixing it with some Tropicana juice. I took a sip of it, testing to make sure that it was to my liking before heading back outside. I was on my way until the doorbell rung, halting my actions. I could easily walk away from the door and act as if I didn't hear it but that would be wrong. What if it's something important?

"Uh, how can I help you?" I said as soon as I opened the door. There were two young looking men standing before me and I immediately tensed, not understanding their purpose of being here.

"You are Ryan's girlfriend... right?" I rolled my eyes and nodded slowly. I didn't appreciate the way that questioned came off and sure as hell didn't understand why he seemed so unsure. If you were, why come so far just to ask?

"He's been arrested," he blurted. My mouth fell as I stared between the two. The cocktail that's in my hand would have slipped, had I not held a tighter grip to it than what I was doing already. The initial shock lasted longer than I expected to, approximately five minutes. Every so often I would feel myself going into a complete daze, totally ignoring the two people standing before me. The waving of one of the two hands in my face caused my orbs to focus in their direction. "He's in a holding cell at the 28th precinct,"

"Wow," I managed to get out. "Uh, how do I know you two are telling the truth?" Sadly, I did believe them but still, I needed answers. "And who are you to Ryan?" So many thoughts were surfacing through my mind. For the life of me, there was no way I could possibly think straight. My mind was racing with endless possibilities of what could have possibly led him towards the predicament he's in now. Every single scenario played through my mind and I shook my head at all of them, nothing seemed impossible at this moment.

"We were in the car with him before separating," The one that remained quiet spoke. "We don't know what happened, so we regrouped and were told to come talk to you about it. And, we work alongside him," Sighing roughly, one of my worst fears happened to be confirmed within the blink of an eye. So, Ryan happened to be assigned a job and on the way of completing it, he was pulled over and arrested. That seems to be the only logical theory I have right now. The anger that resided in me was slowly leaking through my pores and resulting in an unhappy attitude. I didn't even give the two boys a proper salutation before slamming the door shut. The cocktail that resided in my hand, I quickly downed and briskly walked through the large house, quickly grasping my belongings off the couch.

The same time I turned around to walk out without much of a notice, laughter behind me stopped me right in my tracks. "Where you off to, Bailey?" my mother asked, her face growing serious as she inspected my bag. As much as I rather not admit to where I was heading, I knew sooner or later my mother would find out. From who? Rayne of course.

"Uh, I was just going to the corner store," I managed to say without falling into an extreme stuttering problem. My mom looked at me as if what I just said made absolutely no sense. Then the look I was receiving from across the room all made sense. Since when was there a local bodega for me to walk to in Jersey? I would have to drive and end up at a gas station instead. No way was she believing that awful lie. Rolling my eyes mentally, I shifted my body weight to my other leg and thought of another more convincing lie.

"There is no corner store in New Jersey close enough," she chuckled uneasily. "Um, is there something you want? I'm pretty sure I have it,"

Do you have Ryan in your possession? "No, you don't have it," I sighed, shaking my head. "I'll be quick, real quick," I mumbled.

"Is the store really where you're headed to?" she questioned causing me to look over my shoulder.

"Somewhat," I grumbled, quickly walking out the house. The constant noise of feet behind me caused me to look over my shoulder one more time as I stared at Chance. Unlike my mother who allowed the situation to abate, Chance wasn't going to do such a thing. He had his jacket in hand and quickly followed behind me. I guess that would have been a reasonable thing to do since I didn't drive today, and I hadn't asked for my mother's keys. A taxi would have been the next best thing to hop in. Licking my lips, I watched as Chance unlocked his car door and I hopped into the passenger side while he took the driver side. "28th precinct,"

"Harlem bound?" he asked, putting his car in motion.

"Yes," I huffed, quickly signing into Ryan’s Citibank to check and see if he had enough funds available. This predicament could get somewhat messy due to Ryan's record, so I hope my actions weren't going in vain. That's the last thing I wanted. Just by looking at Chance every so often, I knew there were a few things on the tip of his tongue he wanted to say but instead of doing so, he bit his tongue and remained quiet. I got the gist of what he would utter but I wasn't in the mood to hear him yell at me and tell me how bad of a man Ryan is. He shouldn't have to in the first place but with Chance, he gives it to you straight; whether you ask for it or not. "Thank you," I mumbled.

"For what?" he questioned.

"For driving me out here, although you didn't have to,"

"Well, I figured I do it anyhow, seeing as how I was the only one who caught that something was off," he mumbled.

"Well thank you, again," I stated, pursing my lips shortly afterwards. The ride to the police station was quiet besides the low murmurs from the radio station Chance placed it on. I didn’t feel like holding a conversation, not in the least bit. My mind was without a doubt cluttered with so many thoughts and wonders. It hurts knowing that Ryan was up to no good, once again, and his life and freedom were in jeopardy. I had a clue as to what would entail with dating him, but I never fathomed it coming to this very point. In just a few months, things have drastically begun to change and I can't do a damn thing about it.

The last I've been to a police station was two years ago. Two years ago, my father was booked and within a week given a court date. The last thing I want is for history to repeat itself. The only thing I'm certain for is that everything that is occurring is too overwhelming. I don't want to have a mild breakdown because of this but I need to start putting my needs first because obviously, Ryan is preoccupied. The last thing that seems to be on his mind is this whole fiasco with Adrian. At the wrong time, he decides to slip. I can't seem to grip his logic and it's making me reconsider a lot of things. These thoughts have been surfacing a lot lately and Ryan's actions are just reinforcing them.

I hadn't even noticed by then that we had pulled up to the police station. My heart began to beat rapidly and for once, not an ounce of positive vibes seeped through my pores. I quickly gathered my belongings and swung my purse strap over my shoulder. Coming here to begin with was an embarrassment in its own. "Thanks again," I spoke.

"No problem," Even though Chance didn't give out the verbal assault I know he's dying to say, his attitude showed it and he's aware of it too. In this battle, I was losing; I've lost all hope and the energy to carry on. I was just too busy shielding it so everyone around me would think I'm alright. I'm crumbling inside, and I've felt the same way since going to the warehouse that fatal day. "You need me to wait out here or...?"

"Uh, I'm not sure. I'll call you if anything," I stated. He nodded once more, and I unlocked the car door, slowly walking towards the steps that lead to the station. Every step I took, my anxiety level would rise. My hands came in contact with the metal door and I pulled it back, revealing the bright main entrance of the horrid place. There was a burly man sitting at the front desk, He had the complexion of a chocolate bar, no imperfections at all. I walked towards the desk, quickly gaining the officer’s attention off bat. There was a Dunkin Donuts coffee mug and the aroma of the coffee stench filled my nostrils instantly.

"How can I help you?" he quizzed, his deep baritone voice invading my eardrum.

"Um, I-I'm here to bail out Ryan Chalmers," I stuttered. This is one of the first times I've ever come to bail out Ryan and since my nerves were shot, I didn't have the slightest clue on what I was supposed to do. Upon closer inspection, one of his badges read Detective Harris. He stood tall, grabbing a few sheets of paper in his hand and signaling for me to wait a second. Before leaving, he did tell me that the bail was set at two grand to which I frowned at. What could he have possibly done in such a short amount of time that has his bail so high? At this point, I rather him stay his ass in there until he gets a court appearance, which will probably happen regardless. A few minutes later, the scuffling of feet against the floor went about and immediately, three faces appeared from the corner.

I could barely stand to look at Ryan's pitiful face. I'm so disappointed in him; he knows this too which is why he's avoiding my gaze as well. He went on his way to collecting his belongings while I went to pay the bail money. Two thousand dollars down the drain for what? "Court appearance in two weeks. Don't miss it," I overheard. I turned around and faced the cop as he continued to lecture Ryan. I was still confused on as to what he was arrested for and furthermore, even if I attempted to ask, the detectives would label it as confidential. Quite honestly, it was all just bullshit. Once the cop was finished, Ryan gripped my forearm and began to pull me out of the station. Not wanting to cause a scene in front of the cops, I remained mum on his action until we were outside.

"There you go again manhandling me!" I stated, snatching away. I noticed Chance's car was still parked outside so I decided to tell him that it would be alright if he left since Ryan was able to retrieve his car. I was furious at this point, all due to Ryan's foolish actions. A night spent at my mother's house was supposed to be beautiful, instead I'm dealing with a matter such as this. Upon noticing me walk towards his vehicle, Chance hopped out his car and walked around the car to me. "I'll ride back with Ryan," I huffed.

"You sure? You good?" he questioned cautiously, his thick eyebrows furrowing together. He must have seen Ryan's aggression first hand.

"I'm fine," I answered. I gave him a quick hug before pulling away. Ryan can be very possessive at times and the last thing I want is for Chance to be on the receiving end of that, let alone have the two of them in a heated disagreement. "I'll call you when I get home,"

"Alright, Banks," he muttered, slipping back into the driver side. He quickly turned the engine on, watching it roar to life before he peeled away.

"Let's go, Bailey," Those three words were his firstthree words since seeing me. He has yet to say anything else, but he can command me to do something that he wants me to do without a problem, huh?

"Shut the fuck up," I snapped, louder than intended. He looked taken aback and clenched his jaw. I swung the door open to his luxury car and got in, slamming the door behind me. All my frustrations were about to be released right now. I couldn't hold it in any longer.

"Don't be slamming my shit, alright?"

"Instead of telling me what I shouldn't be doing, I should be telling your ass what not to do. Where's my thank you at? I didn't have to come out here for this shit, you know. Matter a fact, why'd you get arrested in the first place?"

"Parking tickets," He said too quickly and instantly, I knew he was lying. It was so obvious for me.

"Stop fucking lying!" I yelled. Ryan hadn't moved a muscle away from the parking space as he stared at me with an intense gaze. Usually, I would be the first to give in and just drop the situation but tonight, I wasn't in the mood for doing so. "You have a fucking court date two weeks from now, your bail was 2 grand and you were heading to the warehouse when you were pulled over. You don't have any parking tickets, idiot. Why the fuck are you lying when your life and mine are in danger?" I said exasperatedly.

"You gon' quit yelling at me," he said, sucking his teeth. He dragged his hand down his face and pulled his snapback lower on his face. I was highly annoyed by his behavior and this was closing close enough to the both of our breaking point. I ignored a lot of things before for the sake of us but it's only so much I can deal with, especially in my predicament. I turned around in the seat and crossed my arms over my chest. There were plenty of attempts at him trying to soothe my mind during the duration of the ride. He would stick his hand out, attempting to grasp my hand and hold it but I easily slapped it away. His hand would absentmindedly rest on my knee till I took notice and he even tried to start a conversation with myself, but I wasn't interested in what he wanted to discuss. I wanted to know why he was arrested to begin with.

Even when I reached his apartment, I still held the same stoic expression, not bothering to communicate with him. I simply found his guest bedroom and curled into a tiny ball, looking at the lively streets. Without much of a notice, Ryan came shuffling into the room, finding a spot on the bed and hugging me from behind. I wanted so badly to break away from his grip, but I knew he wouldn't allow it by the way his grip on me tightened by every wakening second. "We need to talk," his raspy voice spoke.

"You need to talk," I chuckled bitterly.

He groaned and turned me to face him. "Look, I know I don't make the best decisions and shit catches up to me, but I'on like how this shit is bothering you and doing shit to our relationship. I can't lie, I'm stressed as fuck right now and your wellbeing comes before anything else in my life, but I need you to realize, this shit won't be easy. It will never be easy. You just gotta take a leap of faith with me," he pleaded. So, let me make it easy for you, I thought.

"You don't tell me shit anymore, Ryan," my voice cracked. I was unaware of the few tear drops that were slowly coasting down my cheeks. It wasn't until Ryan thumb swept under my eyeball, ridding me of my emotions I tried so hard to ignore all week long. "I'm tired of being in limbo with you," I whimpered. "You give me so much shit to worry about, I'm losing hope in us,"

Ryan

At this point, we were at a standstill. I didn't know how to feel about her confession and if anything, it just angered me more than it should have. After being arrested, all I wanted to do was relax with Bailey but instead, she's barking up the wrong tree. The last thing I'm interested in doing is arguing but last night pushed us each to the brink. I wasn't even able to catch much sleep and spent most of my time over thinking about last night. There were a few things I had to confess to Bailey before she found out any other way from a different source. Last night must have been a blatant sign for me to confess. Sighing, I quickly finished off the cigarette before removing myself from my balcony altogether.

After much convincing, I was able to bring Bailey in my bedroom. She was clad in one of my Supreme shirts, curled into a tight ball. Before going to wake her up, I went to go brush my teeth. I know how badly she hates the smell of smoke on me and if we were going to talk, the last thing I needed for her to fuel fire against me is smoke. A little over ten minutes later, I emerged from the bathroom and strolled towards the bed. I pulled her by her toned legs, the oversize shirt rising up, showing off her black lace thong. "Damn," I grunted, licking over my lips. "Wake up, B," I mumbled, sitting on the edge of the bed.

"What?" she croaked, rubbing her puffy eyes.

"I need to tell you some shit," I muttered. I turned to look at her and caught her rolling her eyes. She pulled my shirt down and scooted to the edge of the bed alongside myself.  

"Last night you didn't have much to say," she retorted.

Rubbing my temple, I decided to ignore her attitude because I know what I'm about to say will be bigger than everything that will flow out of her mouth. "Bailey, other than the time you know of me getting arrested, when you went to DR for a week and some change with your mom, I had a run in with the law again,"

"What?" she muttered. "I went to DR only a month ago!"

"I know, I know," I huffed.

"For a week straight, I was in county jail and Riley..." My jaw clenched unintentionally. It was still a rough subject to talk about to anyone and I rarely did. I doubt I was suppressing any of my emotions, I just decided not to talk to anyone about it because I didn't see a reason to. My mother and I still weren't on good terms. She feels as if I'm the cause of the shooting debacle but in reality, Riley was just as much involved as I was. He however, didn't drop any clues for my mother to pick up on. A lot of the issues Riley took on, he was never one to let others know about and help him on. He was too independent for his own good and didn't like the idea of a helping hand. He would help you whenever you're in need but if you were to switch the roles, he would deny any help.

A few months after the drive by, investigators began to say they're doing everything to help and find out who did it, but I know better. Not only that but they first assumed that it was simply coincidental and an accident; their first reasoning for everything. That was bullshit to me as well because a random drive by doesn't occur. It's thought out and meticulous. If anyone should know that, it would be me. I just feel bad for not knowing better. Maybe that hit was intended for me instead. I would never truly know now. "Prior to him getting gunned down, he warned me that some shit like this would happen, multiple times," I said, shaking my head. Her small hands connected with my back as she gently rubbed it in circles.

“I don’t even want to know why you were arrested,” she grumbled. "Why didn't you tell me when I came back?" she inquired.

"I wasn't trying to stress you out," I admitted. I know how Bailey mind works and of course anything that deals with my profession she'll be against. "But there's more," I mumbled. "Two days before you came home, I had a court appearance and was told I had to remain out of trouble for six months straight or I would end up behind bars again," In a nutshell, your past can catch up with you but thanks to my great lawyer, we were able to work out a great deal without involving my other problems, just the one current issue.

"So, you eventually ended up breaking your deal and that caught up to you," I simply nodded. She sighed roughly and removed her hands from off of me. "Two days, Ryan. Get your shit together or I'll be gone," she threatened, briskly leaving my bedroom.

Adrian

"We gon' have to put a halt to our plans, A," Justin mumbled, kicking his feet up on the table. "Apparently, Mr. Dumb Ass was arrested last night and now they have a close eye on him and anyone he affiliates with. Our goal is to get Bailey but as of recently, she's been up under his arm. She ain't a dumb broad after all. She's been practicing at the Gun Range, she ain't taking no chances," he cackled and to which I did the same. I had to admire her desire to take heed to my words, but I wasn't trying to put a stop to my plan either. There's been no word from Ryan, so I might as well do what the fuck I want at this point. He might have five million, he might not. If he does, for certain he doesn't want to cough that much money up.

"So, you think we should fall back for a minute? Let 'em think we ain't gunning for them and then attack?"

"Precisely," he smiled wickedly. "Besides, this drug exchange is way more important than anything else at the moment. Let's worry about your personal vendetta later," he advised. Personal vendetta? Indeed, it is.

[moonlit-jeno]

its so FUCKING FUNNY TO ME how a western rapper, say asap rocky, could wear that shirt and no one would say shit, ppl r out here calling the shirt OFFENSIVE lmao stfu w all ur pea brain asses if 2 girls kissing r offensive to u then hate to say it honey but u might as well just log off we don't want ur sensitive asses around here ffs

thinking abt how western rappers can go to jail and have drug scandals and date and sing about having sex every seconds of the day and their careers sky rocket but lucas wears one (1) shirt w a silhouette drawing of girls kissing and suddenly it’s offensive and he needs to apologize

[ask-a-w]

[OOC: Long ass recap of RE: Vendetta]

The more I drafted the post, the more my review became a recap with my own personal snarky comments. So here is my recap of Vendetta for those who can’t see the movie yet and want to spoil themselves lol. Spoilers will be under the cut.

Let’s talk about the characters.

Leon is no longer the person we know. He’s ten times more cynical and jaded, an alcoholic, and really doesn’t care any more. He has essentially lost the drive to keep fighting. It’s a stark change from his RE6 self. In fact, he asks Chris, “How long can we keep doing this?”

Poor guy needs a long break or at least retire. IMHO, he needs to see a psychiatrist. He has issues. There’s a very brief line about his childhood which is like, the first attempt in RE history to have one of the main characters talk about what they were as a kid.

I don’t like Leon in this movie so it is relieving that he doesn’t have a lot of screen time. Focus is more on Chris this time.

Chris may look and have a different VA but he’s still Chris in terms of personality. Boulder Redfield shines in one instance when it should have killed him lol. Oh and Chris utilises Leon’s suplex move for one of the action scenes. It’s fun to watch.

Rebecca is surprisingly the voice of reason and raises so many good points! Too bad she doesn’t get to fight much in this movie.

Unfortunately, the RE characters succumb to a dose of stupid by not killing an infected person ASAP and instead, hesitate for many seconds until said infected is already on them. I can forgive Rebecca as she transferred from field ops to science work so it’s been years since she’s been on the front line. But Leon and Chris need to be smacked in their heads for their slip up.

The villain Glenn Arias, has serious issues. He should be BFFs with Carla and Simmons, if they were alive. Oh and he would make a good sparring partner for Svetlana. The villains lately have gone to the school of martial arts. It’s written in his wanted profile that he’s a master in hand to hand combat.

Enough about the characters, let’s talk about something else. The animation and music are beautiful, as usual. I have a dislike for slow-mo in movies and thankfully it’s minimum here. The slow-mo scenes in the movie are cringe worthy.

It’s more violent this time with generous amounts of blood and disembodiment galore so it’s not suited for kids.

So yeah, flawed characters, a beautiful looking/sounding movie, and now let’s jump to spoilers ‘cos I want to talk about the story! It’s gonna be lengthy so grab a drink while you’re at it.

The beginning of the movie has Leon walking into a morgue. He has a internal monologue about how when he was a kid, he wondered what he would do when he grew up and did not expect his life to end up like this. I feel a little sad for him and I have no issues there.

Next is Chris and his team infiltrating a base/mansion that Glenn aka weapons merchant of death is holed up in. Glenn has also taken over Tricell and Neo-Umbrella. Chris is asked for advice by a soldier. Chris says “Be willing to kill friend or family when the choice comes down to it.”

He doesn’t give the advice of shooting the undead in the head and also killing the undead right away. So, it’s no surprise his team gets killed by a kid zombie because they made the dumb move of asking a shuffling human being if “he’s okay”. *sighs*

Yep, we finally see a kid zombie! But the kid is there because his mom from the BSAA went under cover in Glenn’s mansion. Why would you bring a kid along to a house that has a known merchant who deals with BOWs??!

Also the kid can talk/respond coherently while infected. He’s the only that does so throughout the movie and it’s never explained why.

Oh and everyone but Chris wears helmets. I don’t know why. Maybe Chris’s head isn’t squishy like the rest.

There’s a female zombie that is crawling with just her spine and the rest of her body is gone. That’s some Evil Within inspired shit right there.

Anyway, Chris is naturally the only one that survives the mission. Two of his soldiers run into a supposedly empty corridor but there are wires criss-crossing everywhere so they get cut into pieces. That’s kind of impossible IMO but they’re obviously paying homage to the first live action movie with the infamous laser corridor.

Chris fights Glenn outside the mansion and the villain gains the upper hand before boasting that his new virus is so good it can discern friend from foe. Glenn also relieves Chris of his handgun but instead of shooting Chris’s unprotected head, he shoots in the general direction of Chris’s armoured back but Chris somehow ends up with an injured leg. Eh, I swore Glenn was pointing straight into Chris’s back instead of pointing down.

Glenn gloats some more and walks away with his minions that includes a blonde leather clad femme fatale whom I shall henceforth call FF because I can’t remember her name and also a Nemesis-Ustanak monster who used to be a human named Diego. Glenn then instructs the zombies to kill Chris.

BSAA helicopter shows up to save the day and the pilot doesn’t die. That’s a plus! Explosions ensue whilst Chris holds the body of the BSAA undercover agent and screams “Nooo!”

There’s a flashback of Glenn’s wedding day and his bride’s facial features as well as silhouette eerily looks like Rebecca. A fighter plane comes by and drops a bomb on the garden party. Yikes. Scene ends with Glenn bloodied and holding his wife’s disembodied arm as he screams “Nooo!” Oh boy, if any more characters scream no, this could become a drinking game but thank goodness it does not repeat.

Scene transistions to Rebecca Chambers in a lab running test simulations on which vaccine combination works best on the new virus spreading throughout the US in the past four months. Yeah, four months have past since Chris’s failed mission at Glenn’s mansion. A post doc student that looks much older than her comes in with coffee for both of them, kinda flirts with her, and Rebecca uses her Professor status to ask him to go check on something. I should note that Rebecca is breaking lab safety by drinking her coffee in the lab. RULE NUMBER ONE OF LAB SAFETY, YOU DON’T CONSUME ANYTHING IN THE LAB!

Glenn’s FF from before proceeds to kill the post doc student, infects the campus with the mysterious new virus via the airborne route through the vents. Rebecca is infected but thank goodness her lab test simulation is complete and one of them contains the perfect formula for a vaccine which gets manufactured immediately in another room within the building! So she stumbles out of lab, goes into another lab and injects herself with it and is cured. Of course, all her colleagues and friends have turned into shambling zombies. She blungeons her zombified post doc student with a fire extinguisher and stabs another undead fella with a pair of scissors. I shall attest that we do keep scissors in the lab so plus one point for that lol.

Rebecca hides in her lab and is apparently so thirsty that she lunges for a water bottle and drinks it with so much gusto. I’ve never seen someone drink water with so much vigour. FF tries to kill her by causing an explosion that shatters the protective glass barrier between her and the rest of the zombies. But Chris and the BSAA swoop in just in time to save the day. Chris and Rebecca are reunited after a long time.

So, the outbreak is contained and in the aftermath, Rebecca asks Chris why she is casually sitting outside beside a BSAA van instead of being in quarantine since she had been infected. OMG this is the first time I’ve seen a character speak sense! Chris brushes it off and says he needs her expertise and since she cured herself, quarantine isn’t needed. *facepalm* Rebecca makes a joke later in the movie about Chris being the brawn and she being the brains.

Rebecca has been mapping out the outbreaks and knows which populations are infected. She also suspects that the virus is linked to the Plaga used by the Los Illuminados years ago since the undead can be somewhat controlled and know friend from foe. It is one of the reasons why FF targeted the campus because Rebecca is too darn smart and knew too much. So, they go on a field trip to "consult with an expert”.

It’s time to go back to Leon aka the expert where he is currently on vacation in a random tavern in the Rocky Mountains. Leon is obviously not happy that his vacation is interrupted by Chris and Rebecca. His personality is a complete 180 so he’s a rude asshole that doesn’t give a fuck any more. The reason for drowning his surrows is that he was leading a team in DC for an op regarding the recent outbreaks but someone from the inside ratted them out so the whole team except him died. So, Leon doesn’t want to help any more as he is tired of losing everything. Hey, looks like the writers are touching upon that aspect of his life which the fans have pointed out long ago! It only took them 6 games and 3 movies to get there…

Chris and Leon almost come close to duking it out but don’t. Chris merely grabs Leon’s bottle of alcohol and Leon responds by pulling out a hip flask from his belt. Okay, that was funny to me. Chris makes a comment about Leon spending the rest of his week drowning his sorrows while Leon says “He doesn’t plan that far ahead.” At this point, I feel a tiny bit sorry for Leon after his bout of rudeness.

In the end, Rebecca is tired of both their shit, gives them a sample of her blood and tells them to get their act together to save the lives of the citizens at risk across the various states in the US. Apparently this new virus is lying dormant inside of everyone and is waiting to be triggered. They’ll explain more later. She leaves in a huff and heads to the washroom to calm down but that’s where she gets kidnapped by FF. Oh yeah, did I mention Glenn managed to track them all the way to the Rocky Mountains and is spying on them?

Chris and Leon talk about Glenn. Our villain ended up on the US government’s hit list for a lot of shady shit so the government dropped a bomb on his wedding day. I was a little WTF at this revelation… Leon makes a point on why he should help Chris take out Glenn when the government was the one who killed Glenn’s family. Wow Leon, I don’t know either, why don’t you tell me since you’re a government agent?

Their conversation gets interrupted by a random man barging into the tavern and Leon goes ape shit upon seeing him. I shall christen this dude as RM 'cos I can’t remember his name either. There are too many minor characters in this movie. RM is the rat who sold out Leon’s team to none other than… Glenn Arias. RM begs Leon to save his family 'cos Glenn has held them hostage. Leon doesn’t give two shits about saving RM’s family but Chris attempts to persuade Leon to do so since RM has been inside Glenn’s operation so he knows some secrets.

Before anything else happens, Diego arrives with a minigun and a small team of armed soldiers. No prizes for guessing what’s next, they shoot up the place. RIP tavern waitress. RIP RM as well. Leon and Chris have plot armour so they survive without a scratch. Oh and Chris notices FF carrying Rebecca away during the shootout.

Where do they go next? According to Rebecca’s map, it’s New York so off they go~ It’s unclear if it’s NYC and I know New York is pretty big so I’m not gonna say it’s NYC. But wait, RM passed Leon his phone before the gunfight which contains a memory card full of information about Glenn Arias. His phone rings and Leon gets freaked out upon seeing the name on the phone. He answers the call and surprise, it’s RM’s wife on the other line asking her husband if he found the man that would help them. A little girl squeals on the line and asks to speak to daddy. Leon remains silent throughout the whole conversation and RM’s wife becomes really suspicious and demands to speak to her husband which makes Leon hang up. The phone call somehow makes Leon agree to help Chris. Leon’s weakness 101, helping women/family members in distress.

Rebecca wakes up handcuffed in a room, dressed in a wedding dress. The room’s walls have gardens and flowers projected on them. There are a few guest tables in front of Rebecca and all the chairs have coffins on them which are shaking/shambling within. Glenn walks in wearing the same outfit he wore at his wedding. He comments on Rebecca’s intelligence on figuring out the virus and how much she looks like his dead wife, Sarah. He uncuffs Rebecca and remarks that he managed to reanimate all his dead guests in the coffins but since his dead wife was blown to pieces, only the arm remains.

Rebecca is understandably weirded out and proclaims her friends will stop him. Super long virus explanation time! In short, the infection contains three components: a latent virus that was spread via drinking water which was why Rebecca was so eager to drink from the water bottle earlier, a trigger virus that will… trigger the latent virus via a gas, and a vaccine that will nullify the effects to make the undead calm and obedient. Essentially, Glenn can control everyone more effectively than Saddler, I guess?

If it’s not obvious yet, Glenn wants to destroy/control the whole world 'cos the government killed his loved ones. I told you he would be BFFs with Carla 'cos one event made them really pissed… And his fixation with Rebecca can also make him friends with Simmons. So there you have it folks, the vendetta-vengeance-revenge plot is finally revealed.

Glenn points out that Rebecca is wrong and thanks to her blood sample, he managed to make the “A virus” stronger… through the power of RE science. Believe me, I was befuddled upon listening to his words that I have to re-watch the movie again to make sense of what he’s saying. Anyway, we have gone down the ATCG DNA sequence in naming the viruses! How “clever”.

Glenn takes Sarah’s arm and pulls off the wedding ring, intending to marry Rebecca. Of course she resists and he slaps her, saying he will replace Rebecca’s arm with Sarah’s… This man seriously has issues which could have been healed via therapy. Oh and it is also revealed that his two friends at the wedding, Diego and his daughter, FF, were brought back to life by Glenn. Apparently being brought back to life either makes you a big hulking Nemesis-Ustanak or a super sexy femme fatale with superior fighting skills.

At the same time on a BSAA chopper heading to NY, Leon and Chris read through the info in RM’s memory card which reveals that Glenn has the airborne vaccine in gas canisters labelled with a green symbol. Said canisters are hidden in Glenn’s hideout duh. Only a select few have already been vaccinated. They have to find the canisters to save the rest of NY’s populace. Oh and everyone on the chopper has been vaccinated with Rebecca’s concoction which would keep them safe from infection. I like Chris’s new team, there’s a guy with a mohawk, a dude with sunglasses, and a badass lady sniper. They need to show more female SOAs in the games and movies.

The trigger virus have been hidden in disguised water trucks. Needless to say, the gas is deployed on the ground via the trucks and shit goes down really quickly. The BSAA have to destroy the water trucks as well and they can conveniently be wrecked via explosives… I don’t know how an explosion won’t make the gas disperse quicker but it’s RE science at work once again. So, the BSAA has four objectives: Destroy the trigger virus trucks, find the vaccine, find Rebecca, and nab Glenn if possible.

The BSAA chopper finally touches down where Leon, Chris, and I think mohawk guy disembark. Sunglasses dude and lady sniper remain on the chopper to provide aerial support. The BSAA kindly loans out a Ducati motorcycle and a jeep. Leon calls dibs on the bike 'cos it’s the only vehicle in the franchise that he has not destroyed so far lol cool-looking. And surprisingly, he does not crash the motorbike at all for the rest of the movie. xD

It’s a long sequence of them destroying trucks and zombies. There is one moment where I want to smack Leon and Chris in the head. They find a van that shakes and growls. Who do they send to open up the back of the van? Mohawk guy. Who dies? Mohawk guy. What’s in the van? Two undead dogs that Leon and Chris can’t even land a hit on. Seriously, why would you open a growling van?! Why do you send an inexperienced person to open the doors?! That’s a death wish right there.

Leon decides to let the dogs chase him while Chris continues to fulfil the other objectives… If you’ve seen the teaser video of Leon on the highway, Leon does let two innocent drivers die when he shoots down one of the dogs. Those are NOT Glenn’s men at all. I guess it’s all part of the collateral damage.

Chris makes it to Glenn’s NY hideout and is joined by Leon on a motorbike. Apparently Leon rode up the stairs with the bike. Err… okay then. Again, if you’ve seen the teaser video of the corridor fight, that’s what you get along with a few more minutes of extra action of them shooting zombies in many stylish ways possible. That’s where Chris suplexes a zombie.

Both men eventually split up so Chris goes to find Rebecca while Leon goes on a zombie killing spree. Instead of getting her arm replaced, Rebecca has been injected with the new virus and only has twenty minutes before she turns/dies. I guess Glenn had a change of heart…?  

Chris finds her with minutes to spare, they go up to the rooftop office where Glenn is keeping the vaccine. Of course, Glenn doesn’t let them pass. It’s a re-match between Chris and Glenn. Both end up in a stalemate and land on a glass fixture where Glenn proceeds to smash Chris’s head against it approximately three times, causing the glass to shatter. This should have made Chris’s head crack open like a nut but this is Boulder Redfield who didn’t need a helmet when we first saw him. Chris throws Glenn through the opening in the glass where he falls down many floors and lands on the ground with a splat.

Thinking that all is over, Chris supports Rebecca and leads her to the office but villains don’t die easily as per rule number one of Capcom lore. Diego finds Glenn’s broken body and Diego activates his final form which are plaga-like appendages on its back. It is implied that Diego and Glenn merged to become that hideous monster that screams “Redfield!” in the trailer. I shall call this monster Glego.

Chris attempts to face off with Glego and looks like he’s about to lose when Leon comes charging in on his motorbike. Glego turns his attention to Leon and Leon keeps forgetting to aim for the big pulsing red heart that is conveniently located on all tyrant-like creatures. It is a pain watching Leon waste his bullets as he gets tossed around like a rag doll. Glego is about to land a final blow on Leon with his extendable finger-claws when he gets saved by Chris’s aerial support. In the mean time, Chris has found the vaccine canisters and more weapons… Oh goodie.

Badass sniper lady uses a brand new laser-ish weapon that punches a hole through Grego and five buildings. I’m not kidding about the five buildings. Who builds this kind of weapon?! Do you not care about civilians any more? Glego jumps and lands on the chopper, punches a hole through the chopper with said finger-claws and nicks sniper lady’s shoulder. Chopper starts losing altitude (as always), Leon revs up his motorbike and sends it off the rooftop into Glego. He shoots the gas tank in a big fiery explosion but Glego still lives. Pfft, you should know that fire and tyrants don’t mix.

Chris shows up with what I think is a grenade launcher which finally finishes off Glego. The chopper and its two occupants miraculously survive. They have broken the helicopter pilot curse! Rebecca inhales the vaccine and with seconds to spare, is cured.

The BSAA load up the vaccine canisters into the chopper and spray it all over the city. And for the very first time in RE history, the infected are cured and are turned back to normal. Well, they weren’t killed in the first place since they turned upon inhaling the trigger virus so I guess the vaccine reversed the effects. I’m not sure about the dead though. It’s never explained…

All of our heroes get on the chopper and fly off. Leon asks Chris how long they can keep doing this to which Chris replies with “I don’t plan that far ahead”. Haha, very funny. So err, I guess Leon renewed his drive to keep fighting? It’s really unclear. It’s not even said if he’s gonna save RM’s family anyway! Jeez.

You know, we are forgetting someone. We see FF finding her father’s mask on the floor. She looks into the camera and the movie ends right there. Great, I guess it’s a no brainer who is taking over Tricell & Neo-Umbrella.

There are no post-credits scenes and the credits aren’t as catchy as Damnation’s.

And there you have it, what I remember of Vendetta. If I left out some scenes, I found them either mundane or I really forgot them. 

Are there a lot of plot holes in the movie? Oh yeah. Should they end the series and let the characters retire? OF COURSE. Can’t you see how messed up and tortured Leon is? Is it mindlessly amusing and entertaining? It’s Resident Evil, when is it never cheesy and stupidly entertaining?

I still prefer Damnation and Degeneration over Vendetta though. 6/10 for me if you want me to rate it.

And boo ‘cos there’s no Jill, Barry, any of the characters from Revelations, Ada, Hunnigan, or any one from the DSO.

[sightful-tangents]

new year’s resolutions 2019

Okay, we’re here. 2019 New Year Resolutions, baby, let’s do this. *puts on This Year by the Mountain Goats and contemplates goals for like the thirtieth time this year*

2019 Themes - I’ve done yearly themes for at least 3 years now, and these kind of just shape and frame my decision making throughout the year. Last year, the themes were “Travel” and “Investment”. For a while, I really thought that this year’s themes would be “travel” and “building relationships”. For a couple weeks, I thought “well, this is it. I’ve done personal growth centred themes for a while now, this is the year I really want to build better relationships!” But a few weeks in, I can already say that while it was an admirable thought, I don’t know if it’s the right one at the right time (at least, if it stands on its own).

And of course, the reason is my job. I find my job hard. Like, it may not be hard for others, and I feel silly if I state “my job is challenging” when really, I mean “to me, my job is challenging.” And the stress, fear, and insecurity that comes with it has really kind of fucked with my mental health as of late. And I know that because of this shift, I do need to be a bit more aware that I need to take care of myself and my brain (woo! Self-care!) before I can really turn outwards. Rushing myself to create and foster and grow relationships will be just so unbalanced if I can’t bring 80% of my self to the table. So. Yeah.

Themes, eh? 2019 will be “travel” and “put down roots”. Let me explain. Travel is obvious, but Put Down Roots is a combination of my earlier thought (building relationships), but it’s also kind of my personal way of making sure that my foundations are solid. My mental health is in check, and that I’ve got some sturdy roots psychologically, as well as letting them grow and intertwine with the city I live in physically, and the people I am around emotionally. And I need to work on that, and while it is kind of broad, I’m still going to prioritize these different aspects (i.e., I have no shame about putting my self first).

So, onto the resolutions. This year they’re categorized into: work, tangible, space, relationships, self.

THE BIG ONE

1. Put down roots. For so long, I felt like I was going to be going back to Toronto ASAP. I don’t really feel like this will be the case anymore (for a myriad of reasons, albeit I love the city so much and my best friends are still there). So that means that while I’ve always kind of had a mental barrier against putting down roots in Vancouver, this will be the year where I will try. As I mentioned above in the themes, this resolution is not specific. It’s three-pronged: a sturdy mental foundation, a sense of belonging in a place, and a feeling of belonging with people.

WORK

2. Don’t get fired. Honestly, I have a fear of being fired. Imposter syndrome is real, ya’ll, and this role really brings out the beast. I know intellectually that being fired is probably unlikely but my brain also always responds with, “IS IT THOUGH??”.

3. No major fuck-ups (that may lead to being fired and/or my supervisor seriously regretting his decision to hire me). Before I had a fear of fucking up in ANY way. Subtext in this goal is the fact that I DON’T want to be scared of fucking up. I want to be able to move forward, maybe mess up, and feel like my supervisor has my back and will let me fuck up and still let me work and grow and hopefully contribute good things. So, let’s not fuck over my organization, but let’s also recognize that in order to grow, I need to make mistakes, and I want to feel safe enough in my position to make that mistake and know it’s not going to lead to me getting fired (man, this is a lot to ask).

4. Get a professional certification. I will! I promise!

5. Learn to be a better supervisor. I only ‘supervise’ one person, and boy, it’s a bit of a learning experience. I mean, I want to be her friend (maybe that’s the problem here lol), but I also recognize I have to monitor her work (some of which I am not exactly 100% satisfied with), and also teach her a lot, and all this other stuff. I don’t think I’m that good at it, but I really do want to try and be better. Let her learn and grown and be available to answer questions and support her etc. Sigh.

6. Be okay with being uncomfortable at work. Ha. Lean into discomfort, right? I recognize it’ll take a while to feel settled (or, will I EVER feel settled?), but I don’t want to let it get to me. I am making a rule for myself: I can wallow over mistakes or bad events for one day. Then I need to move the fuck on because I have other shit to think about. Do not prolong that suffering! Also, I guess this resolution ties into being uncomfortable around the responsibilities I have, and while I will never feel 100% like I am “doing the right thing”, I can try and lessen my anxiety around it.

TANGIBLE-(ish) 7. Be smart with money. I know, I know, one of my fears is being fired so I want to save as much money as I can before I get fired and inevitably get a job where I earn less. But again, this isn’t about saving a specific dollar amount. I think it is generally about not letting lifestyle inflation become too severe, don’t buy shit I don’t need, and prioritize spending in a way that is aligned with my values. In this case, travel and experiences (of which, I am allowing food/eating out to count).

8. Read 35 books. A yearly target, that seems harder and harder to reach as each year my attention span seems to wane a little bit more.

9. Cook at least 2 times a week. An adulting goal that I want to accomplish. Sigh. Why is cooking so hard?

10. Get an IUD. Honestly, I’m not in a relationship or dating right now, but why not right. I don’t want a baby in the next 5 years, and my friends have gotten them and I’m like, sure, that sounds like a good thing to put on a to-do list lol.

11. Volunteer. I volunteered for two events last year, and this year I want to do at least one (or maybe two?) more, on top of those. Those were fun and rewarding experiences (maybe just because volunteers get free vouchers to see movies and shows and this girl loves free shit) but yeah, definitely one of those things I’m super glad I did.

12. Continue playing piano for fun.   Again, one of my best decisions last year. I really really love it, it’s great for my brain to calm down and be distracted, and I might even get a full sized keyboard with 88 keys instead of 72 sometime in the future. I love that there’s no pressure and it feels like something I do just for myself.

13. Learn and keep a new hobby. What is this, 2017? I’m taking pottery classes with an old colleague, and I am also thinking of learning to knit? Hm.

SPACE

14. Travel. My travel goals this year are: Taiwan, the Rockies (Banff and Jasper), and either South America, Turkey, or Eastern Europe. Also, maybe Toronto over the holidays. And I am very very very tentatively thinking about going to New Zealand in 2020, so let’s cross our fingers. I have 2 weeks of vacation left that I haven’t decided what to do with. This is also the year where I’m traveling more with friends, and in the past I completely balked at the idea (yay solo travel!) but I might be ready for a change.

15. Settle into my living space. For the first time in my life, I don’t have roommates! I have a couch and dressers and a dining table, and hoo boy, let me tell you, furniture and decor is NOT my thing. It stresses me out and I straight-up withdraw and try not to deal with it. Bless my mother and her infinite patience (and perhaps pity) with me and helping me sort out my living situation. She helped me move twice last year, and helped me basically pick out all my furniture (second hand!). I’m so grateful, but I also recognize that I just need to suck it up and buy some fucking dining chairs ffs. Also, I’m trying to make this place feel more and more like home. I’m not exactly sure how, but maybe just letting myself laze around on a Sunday afternoon is enough.

16. Settle into my city. I spent this weekend walking up and down the main “streets” in my neighbourhood, making a mental note of all the restaurants and bars and grocery stores I’d like to stop by. I want to familiarize myself with this area a lot more. Be able to give other people recommendations when they visit.

RELATIONSHIPS

17. Make 2 new friends. YAS FRANSSS.

18. Date people! When life got really busy last year, I put this on hold and said “it’s a 2019 problem”. Guess what, it’s 2019, maybe I should go see how my standards have changed… Also, I really want to go out with people I don’t meet on dating apps? I think the reason I like dating apps is that everyone is on the same page regarding “this is a date”, whereas people I sometimes go out with IRL is like “are we doing a friend hang-out or is this a date” (of which, I think the former as to not humiliate myself by assuming the latter).

19. See my mom at least once or twice a month. We live pretty close and I try and say that I’ll spend long weekends with her and my stepdad, but I do need to prioritize this more, I think. It’s so nice to hang out with them, but sometimes I am busy trying to fill up my social calendar that my weekends just become unavailable.

20. Be a better friend (support & generosity). In part of my “turning outwards” theme, I want to be a better friend. Reaching out more, being emotionally available, being generous with my time, asking them thoughtful questions, trying to understand them better and also trying to make sure they feel understood. I recognize they’ll be my support system and I don’t want to let them down.

SELF

21. INTENTIONALITY. This is a big one. It was almost a theme. It was almost my goal #1. I want to be intentional with my actions AND my thoughts. Intentional with the way I act towards my friends, being generous, spending time, setting up hang-outs. I want to also be intentional with the way I consume media (sigh, useless youtube in the background), the fact that I haven’t really listened to podcasts in a while, I’m trying to catch up more on news but sometimes it hurts my heart to read so much negative stuff about the world. I want to READ MORE BOOKS even thought it seems so hard sometimes? Lastly, I want to be intentional with my thoughts. This is obviously hard, but I want to train myself to not ruminate, to let go of anxiety and stress when I can, to care about the opinions only from people that matter, and to be more generous and kind and believe in the best in people.

22. Keep my mental health in check (and prioritize it). With this new job, I feel a lot more anxious and stressed, and I don’t like it. I loved that my previous job meant my brain stopped caring about work at 4pm, but I don’t really have that luxury (yet?) and the anxiety get to me and I think feeds bouts of depression. I want to make sure that I am aware of these effects, I forgive myself for feeling like shit about myself, and that I take actions to either deal or distract me - this usually means seeing friends and being social and not wallowing.

23. Figure out my finances. This resolution should really be further up the list. I don’t know what I am doing with my money, and I need to dedicate time and effort to LEARN IT. Financial literacy is SO IMPORTANT do not let other people tell you otherwise!! Don’t let the system get you, is what I’m saying.

24. Fucking exercise. My friends and I are taking a trip to the Rockies this year (so excited!!) but we have planned a lot of hikes and I’d really prefer not to be the one huffing and puffing the entire time. Also, I really am curious as to the effect exercise might have on my mental health.

25. Maintain my weight. This is a bit health related. Last year, I gained like 10 pounds when I started the office job, and then I lost it towards the end of the year. I just feel much more comfortable with my body at this weight. That said, I recognize that it’s a simple diet + exercise combination, and with my lack of exercise, this just means I watch what I eat. Calories in, calories out. It’s not hard and I should not eat that much cake, okay.

26. Be better than I currently am. WIP, mates.

27. Take risks. Of all sorts. Because, why not. Always.

—

And… that’s it. As we try and find our way through this year, let me remind myself when I step into work: game face on. Or, as Susie would say to Midge Maisel: tits up.

[greatmeraz]

TOP 5 BEST SMART WATCHES #smartwatches #greathelper2.0 #viralvideos #fan...

[waitingtoexhale-ff]

ZION | 1. Ain’t This Some Shit?

c h a r l i e

“I’ma fuck you up Vee, stop playin!” I whined and turned over on my towel so she couldn’t slap my ass again. “That shit hurt.”

“Wake ya ass up. It’s our last night here and you wanna sleep? .. Uh uh nope. Get up.” Standing up she wiped sand off her body and slid on her sandals. My other best friend, Erin was doing her usual, out in the ocean swimming like a damn fish.

We had been in Hawaii on vacation for the past two weeks and like Vee said, tonight was our last night. I was drained but I understood why she was trippin right now. It was 4 PM and we had been sitting on this beach since early this morning doing absolutely nothing. Sitting up, I slid my shades on and examined my new tan lines. 

“Bitch we been doing all kinds of shit for two weeks. This was supposed to be a relaxing vacation and your ass wanna turn up every night like we not going back home to that shit..”

“Shut up.” Brushing me off she stood up and walked towards the ocean.

“Eeeee! Erin!” Vee waved wildly for Erin to get out the water. I stood up and began folding my towel and packing my beach bag back up.

“Where we going?” Erin yelled, making her way from Vee to where our things were laying. She held a confused expression on her face and started wiping her body down with her towel. She probably had the same intentions as I did, to be lazy as hell today. 

“To find some food and some moves for tonight.” I rolled my eyes and continued grabbing my sunscreen and snack and shoved them in my bag.

“Oh aight.” Following suit Erin began packing her own beach bag up.

Once we were all ready, we headed off the beach and back into our resort. My first time in Hawaii and it’s been more than I thought it would be. They get just as lit out here as we do in Atlanta. Walking into the suite I plopped on my bed and tried to cover myself in a blanket until Vee’s eager ass tried to yank it off of me. 

“Charlie, I’m not playing with you! Come onnnnn. Get ready.” She whined like a baby.

“But i’m tired.” I whined back, giving her some of her own medicine. Rolling her eyes and walking away from my bed, Vee sighed. I knew if we didn’t go out tonight I would never live this down.

“Fine Vee, fine!” Huffing I got up and started taking off my bikini. Grabbing my robe and a bottle of champagne out of the ice box I made my way to the bathroom and hooked up my phone to my portable iHome. 

I made sure to lock the door behind me being that this was probably my last chance at relaxation before our flight in the morning. As Lauryn Hill’s ‘Cant Take My Eye’s Off of You’ began to play softly in the background I poured myself a glass of champagne before turning on the water and throwing in my vanilla scented bath bomb. I loved this scent AND this song. Sitting on the edge of the tub, I took a sip of my drink and leaned my head back enjoying this moment.

*THUD THUD THUD*

“WE GOT RESERVATIONS IN TWO HOURS CHARLIE. DON’T TAKE ALL DAY!” Vee’s annoying ass voice rang through the door and took me completely out of my zone. Rolling my eyes, I took back the champagne and slid into the tub. The water felt so damn good I couldn’t help but to completely relax and close my eyes .. and before I knew it I was slumpt. Head tilted to the side and probably slobbering all over the damn place.

Jumping awake from the sound of a soca mix that was blaring through my speakers, I quickly stood from the tub. Realizing where the heck I was I let the water run out of the tub and turned on the overhead shower, quickly washing my body off. Hopping out the shower I walked back into my suite and decided on something simple and comfortable to wear.

e l i j a h

“Ay, Eli you ready yet nigga?”

“Come the fuck on, man. I swear it ain’t that much you can do ta make ya ugly ass look any better.”

Harpor and Breonne stood outside my suite door, laughing. “Shut the fuck up and be patient bitch!” I yelled back and shook my head. After buttoning the last button on my shirt I slid my gold chain around my neck and wiped my hand down the straight backs. Fuck. I needed my hair braided but I really didn’t give a shit. It was our last night out here in paradise. In a few hours I plan on being slumpt on a plane back to Atlanta.

*THUD, THUD, THUD*

“E man we boutta take these shots and leave yo ass.” I heard Macy’s deep ass voice.

“Nigga .. get the fuck off my dick, I said I was coming. Shit.” I yelled back.

These niggas been bugging me all fucking week. These my boys but I ain’t sign up for this shit. Sliding on my Yeezys I placed my gold watch on my wrist and unlocked my door. When I walked out everybody was sitting in chairs on they phone.

“I expected yall niggas to be lined up at the fucking door. Rushing me and shit.”

“Ay, shut up nigga.” Breonne stood up and walked over to the kitchen area of our hotel suite and poured 4 shots.

“Harp, Mace .. the fuck are y’all doing? Come on.”

[Breonne was the baby of all of us. His ass was the youngest and damn near the wildest. He’s the only one of us that don’t come from money but always got at LEAST 5 Gs on ‘em. We met him a few years ago at one of Harpers fashion shows for his T-Shirt line. The nigga was charging people to use the fuckin’ bathroom. Harp couldn’t even be mad man, we laughed the shit off and been kicking it ever since]

Once we were all good and tipsy we headed out for one last night of Hawaii life. This week been nothing but bitches and liq. Rinse and repeat.

“Yo let’s check this spot out. This the spot we skipped all week.” Harpor nodded to a club across the street from our hotel. It was a dinner joint with a club upstairs. Usually shit’s like this don’t be jumpin’ but we could always leave if we ain’t feeling it. I followed my brothers inside and looked around at all the stuck up white people who were staring. I clenched my jaw and made my way up the stairs to where the club was located. The DJ was playing DS2 and the dance floor was crazy. We immediately walked to the bar to buy a bottle and see what the VIP section was looking like.

“How much for a booth in VIP?” I asked the manager who was behind the bar.

“We only have one more left and someone asked before you.” His accent was weird and caught me off guard. Paired with the music, I really couldn’t hear shit he said.

“What you say?” I asked leaning down to see if I could hear any better.

“He said it’s taken.” I heard a loud voice to the right of me and looked down at a shortie. She handed over a couple hundreds to the manager and flashed a smile at him. After handing her a receipt she thanked him and turned to walk away. Me thinking with my ego, which was common as hell for me, followed her without telling my boys what the hell I was doing.

“Excuse me .. excuse me.” I reached out and lightly touched her waist. This being the first time I look at her body and damn is all I could think. DAMN d a m n D a M n. Her physique was crazy. She was the definition of slim thick. She turned around and squinted her eyes up at me. She had a lil sassiness about her but it wasn’t nothin’ I ain’t already experienced before.

“Yes?” Was all she said before eyeing me up and down.

“I’ont mean to hold you up but listen It’s my last night out here and I’m tryna show my boys a good time. Ya think it’s any room for us to share your booth? It’s just 4 of us and I’ll give you the money for it.”

I felt like my words were going in one ear and out the other.

“I’m sorry but no. Me and my girls can enjoy ourselves alone. It’s my last night, too and quite frankly I don’t like to share.” I chuckled and nodded as she flashed me a smile and walked away. As I watched her walk away my boys walked up behind me. “What she say?” Macy asked watching her, too. “Damn.” I heard him mumble.

“Damn ain’t even the word .. GAHT DAMN!” Breonne yelled causing us to crack up.

“She ain’t say nothing, man. I asked if we could share the booth and she wasn’t havin’ it.” I turned around. “Y’all tryna leave?”

“Hell nah .. you see her friends nigga?! I’m good right here, man.” Macy said keeping his eyes in the direction shortie walked in.

“Real shit?” I turned around only to see 3 of the baddest I’ve seen all week and they ain’t even locals. They made themselves comfortable around their booth and began pouring drinks.  “Aight yeah we here for a hour .. and then we out. I ain’t chasin’ no pussy tonight.”

“Why not? You do it any other time.” Harper said causing the other boys to crack up.

[Harper was a sophisticated asshole. He was far from the oldest but had his head on straight unlike the rest of us. Me and Harp grew up together. Same school, same neighborhood. This was my real brother. He had a few issues growing up with his pops gettin’ popped but what black man in America don’t know what it’s like to have they daddy around? I’ll wait. My boy was a fighter though, you’ll get to hear more of his story a lil lata]

We had been in this spot a lil over an hour now and I couldn’t keep my eyes off this chick, yo. She was sexy as fuck and honestly I wanted her. I knew she saw me staring ‘cause I catch her glancing this way every now and then. She’ll laugh and look, refill her glass and look, or shake her ass and look cause she knew I was watching her. Smirking and shit. I won’t tellin’ my boys but she was the goal for the night and I wasn’t leavin’ till I at least tried my luck.

“Ay, nigga. We out.” Breonne said returning to the table with Macy not far behind. You would think the oldest and the youngest would hate each other but these niggas were like two bitches in love. “Nah, man. It’s only 1:30 .. y’all ain’t even found no pussy. Fuck y’all doing?”

Macy smacked his lips. “Bitch neither have you! The fuck.” Breonne laughed and plopped down in a seat next to Harper.

“I’m working on it.”

“Bruh staring ain’t gone get you shit but in trouble. It’s time to hit somewhere else man.” Harper took his last sip of Hennessy and looked over at me. I looked back at shortie and her and her girls were grabbing their bags and leaving. “Aight, we out then.”

They all looked at me and chuckled. I shook my head and did the same. “Just shut the fuck up and come on.”

c h a r l i e

“See we didn’t stay out too late and we’re close as hell to the room. Say ‘thank you Vee’ for getting y’all whack asses out on our last night.” Vee giggled at herself and stumbled a few steps ahead of me.

“Um no thanks. I would have still preferred sitting on the beach or laying in the bed.” I chuckled and laughed at her. She was a lightweight when it came to drinking. And when I say light I mean two shots of Henny will have her ass sleep. I only let her drink margaritas and that was probably a bad idea, too but oh well.

“Thaaank you, Venecia.” Erins drunk ass yelled out. “Girl, shut up. Drawing unnecessary attention.” I grabbed a hold of E’s hand. I couldn’t even enjoy my buzz because I had to make sure they got to the room in one piece.

“Yo, excuse me!” Was all I could hear from a distance and it sounded a little too familiar. We all three turned around at the same time. I rolled my eyes when I saw dude from earlier. I was doing my best inside the club not to look too much. It was no secret that he was fine as hell. I just didn’t want to actually act on the things I had running through my head. “Speaking of unnecessary attention.” I mumbled.

“Ooooow, Charlie who is that? He is fine and so are his friends.” I looked back at Vee and she was biting down on her lip smiling. “What? It’s been hella long. Fine men and alcohol make me horny. You know that shit.”

“Which is why I told your ass not to drink in the first place.” I shook my head and tried to hide my irritation with a smile. Any other night I would let my girl do her. He was so damn sexy and his friends weren’t too far behind him. This was almost too good to be true, maybe that’s why I was trippin’ like this.

“Can I help you?” I asked as the four guys walked up on us. I let my eyes roam from his to his friends and saw them scoping out me and my girls.

“Y’all headed to another club?” He looked me up and down and I just knew he was imagining me without this dress on. I didn’t leave much to the imagination being that I had on no bra or any panties. When I said I wanted to be comfortable I meant just that.

“No, we’re headed in for the night. We have an early flight.” He licked his lips and I could feel my pussy muscles clench. I really wasn’t prepared for this shit tonight and him being at least 6’4 wasn’t helping my situation. Tall men just did something to me. I was fine watching him from a distance. Up close was a little much for me right now.

“Shit, so do we.” one of his boys said licking his lips and smiling at me. 

“Aight, well we tried.” He chucked. “Have a good night ladies.”

I bit the inside of my jaw before speaking. “Thanks, you, too.”

“Not all of us are going to bed right now ..” I shot my eyes back at Vee who obviously wasn’t letting this one go. Just smelling this man’s cologne was getting me hot. Having him in a room .. posiibly alone .. God why can’t she wait till we get home to get some dick? I didn’t wanna be a hoe tonight but Vee obviously did so I guess I gotta go with it.

“Oh word?” He looked at Vee and then down at me again, this time trying to hold a smile in. “You all could come keep us company until we decide to go to bed.” Vee stepped up next to me and eyed out all of the guys.

“That’s good witchall?” He turned back around and looked at his boys who were mumbling shit to each other.

“Hell yeah.” The skinny one said winking at Vee.

“What’s your name?” I rolled my eyes at Vee and focused my attention on the chocolate in front of me. Vee out here inviting random niggas to our room and don’t even know their names.

“I’m Elijah, these my brothas. Harper, Macy and Breonne.”

“Ok .. nice to meet y’all. I’m Charlie. This is Erin and That’s Vee.”

“Vee ..” The skinny one walked around Elijah and stood in front of her. He leaned down and whispered something to Vee. She giggled and I couldn’t help but laugh at her drunk ass. If she was in her right mind none of this shit would even be happening. Erin was half asleep on me and starting to hurt my shoulder.

Without saying another word I turned around and began walking across the street with Erin attached to my shoulder.  I’m the youngest one babysitting two grown ass women. Ain’t this some shit?

[brokenpicassofanfic]

Chapter 4: Realize some shit…

RAFAEL

“...I wanna enjoy the luxury of like, not knowing each other for real…”

- LOTUS FLOWER BOMB Wale

“Put the shit out bruh we close as hell..”

“You and NYU can kiss my black ass, this ‘bout the only high I’m gon’ get in the next three hours fuckin’ with this english class B.” Stoopey snickered as we hustled off the subway towards the campus filled with the mixture of students. Jamming my hands in my Supreme taupe and navy blue varsity jacket, I toiled with the dime bag in my pocket feeling the itch to crush, spread, and light another.

“Before you know it these three hours will be over just chill. It’s helpin’ you with your shit bruh.”

Nodding I took one last long drag closing my eyes, as the smoke escaped within the air. He was right though. Although the shit is still mind blowing that a nigga was really in college, my last year at that, I realized some shit since being here. Shit was more than having street smarts and credibility, and this was a totally new world for me, and a far cry from the rough streets of Harlem. I felt my only way through the shit and everything was to write and rhyme about it. So although it was a stretch to get my ass here by 9:00 for this class, it was a necessity for a nigga.

“Yo what time is it?”

“8:54”

Fuck. Speeding up my walk, I pushed my way through as Stoopey trailed right behind me. Stepping in the lecture hall, I found a seat in the back and crouched low. Although I was still half asleep, I was about to fight my hardest to stay attentive.

“Nigga you high?” Whispering all the while chuckling he nudged me asking.

“Nah but I’m damn near close, I'm just tired as fuck.”  He could only shake his head still chuckling as I smirked. I wasn’t on cloud nine, but I was a bit lifted. For a moment just staring into space waiting for my professor to arrive, I zoomed out and closed my eyes, until a soft voice broke me out of my state.

“Excuse me can I get through?..” Looking up at her I just stared for a moment, before sitting up. As I got up and she bypassed, I smelled the mixing aromas of cocoa butter, vanilla, and jasmine. “Bruh…” speaking lowly to myself as I scanned her frame, I watched as she took off her Créme and Maroon leather varsity jacket that ascribed greek letters of Delta Sigma Theta, before sighing heavily shaking her cluttered curls that framed her sugar brown and beautifully freckled face. A girl she sat next to with a similar jacket and a Nia Long-esue cropped cut, flicked a curl out her face that caused her to break out her perfect set of 32’s slapping her hand away.

“...Rafi!” He nudged me trying to get my attention.

“What nigga, damn?”

“You good?"

"Yeah, why wouldn't I be?" Returning my focus back over, she met my gaze as I licked my lips; I smirked and nodded at her before she scoffed lightly turning her head back. Damn.

"Believe me Ra, shorty ain’t like the regular bruh...” Peering back over, she glanced at me once more before focusing her attention to where our professor stood in place. Where she talked our ears off about prominent figures in literature for the next hours.

STEVEY

That look of familiarity that he gave off hit me like a gut punch. Because I too couldn’t help but stare mesmerized at that beaming smile that she gave; in which he reciprocated at that very moment.

"This lil mama from London right? The one you spotted?" Zaire asked before turning to me awaiting an answer that I hesitated to provide. The way Z was looking at her bothered me. Looking at Emory smiling shyly back at him, a squint of jealousy pang in my chest. What was this?

"Y-yeah. Emory." I responded while nodding. It was as if it was yesterday when approximately a year ago, while searching for a local film shop in the cold and harsh London weather, my Canon captured a Emory leaving NYU’s building in a slow carefree wander; and although it may have been weird of me with each walk she took, to have photographed every moment walking towards her until we were faced to face, I didn't regret meeting her that day. Being a foreign exchanged student for a semester over there we grew rather close. And eventually I convinced her as a way to branch off her modeling career to foreign exchange to the U.S, and for her it was the best decision she could’ve made…..and for me.

“I’m guessing you both met before.” I stared back and forth between them feeling the heat radiate from them both as he stepped a bit closer.

“Seen….Figure Drawing.”  He licked his lips nodding before responding in a low gruff voice. For a moment standing there watching their exchange it took me a moment to realize something: he seen her naked. The reddening of Emory’s cheeks as she cleared her throat looking away, caused me to take a deep breath trying to recuperate from the obvious.

“Uh, Em, you ready?” She nodded as her eyes still locked with Z’s. As we headed towards her dorm parting ways with Z, I noticed her shift of mood. Maybe I’m reading too deep into things, but the way how she looked at him…..I’ve never seen that look in her eyes before, especially not with me.

LEON

He was hiding something.

The faintness of his answers, the avoiding eye contact, and the vagueness of his replies when I needed specifics; all made me come to this conclusion. Cause Tommy? Doesn't fall in love, or even get remotely serious with any girl. So to hear him speak that way concerned me. Who was he talking about?

"You ready?"

Paloma hasty in her steps made way to the car I've been sitting in for the past hour waiting. Her red painted lips screwed up into a faint smile that was genuine; she wasn't mad anymore.

"Yup! I wonder what they want. Ooh maybe it’s the families annual grand dinner!” What has her in such an ecstatic mood?

“Maybe...but nah I doubt it. He sounded serious over the phone. Like something was urgent that he had to tell us.” I glanced over to her direction as her smile beamed in delight at a text message she was reading.

"May I ask why you're so cheesy?" Making a left turn I stopped abruptly behind a taxi sitting casually back peering over at her....still smiling.

"Hmm? O-oh, uh.. nothing." She was stuttering all the while trying to conceal her grin.

"Mhm." Pulling up to the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by Hector Alvino’s beer belly as the car slowly made its way to the curb. The cheery italian valet parker who always awkwardly called me Sir, immediately opened my door and as always I held up my hand as another, made way to Paloma’s side, who didn’t mind.

“Hector, it’s bad enough you have to park my car, I think I can open my own door man..” Releasing a light chuckle while putting the keys in his hand, he smiled kindly in objection.

“There, there Leo, It’s my pleasure and my job to.” Tilting his hat my way, he made way to my vehicle before greeting Paloma.

“Take care of my baby Hec.”

“As always sir.”

Paloma closely by let out a scoff, causing me to nudge her lightly. We entered the dimly lit, and fine establishment and looking around I was swelled with pride. Castillos Kitchen my family’s pride and joy has been with standing in the heart of Manhattan, NY for damn near 50 years. It was passed down from generations and started out in my great grandmothers small kitchen in the Spanish Harlem; eventually with her spellbinding recipes things expanded and evolved. Looking up at her Self Portrait that hanged up on the emerald and cream renaissance designed wall, her favorite colors, the painting took me no longer than a week, and was by far my best work. Damn she was missed. But you could feel her presence in the place each time you ate here. You smelled her through the rose fragrance that filled the air, that she used to wear, or her favorite tunes that played on the piano throughout the restaurant.

“Te he echado tanto muy caro ... bienvenido!” Abuelo speaking loudly greeting us, enveloped us both in a firm hug before releasing a hearty laugh kissing both of us on our cheeks.

“We missed you too grandpa.” Holding him tight Paloma held on before releasing. I welcomed the reunion, but I needed to know the urgency of the call for us to come here.

“What's up abuelo? Why we here?”

“Come, come.” Motioning us to the back we headed to his office and the silence was thick, and it worried me greatly. As he sat down behind his vast desk, he avoided eye contact for several moments before speaking.

“I have some...troubling news.” Immediately I sat up straight.

“W-what is it abuelo?” Paloma asked the question that has been spinning in my head since he’s been speaking.

“It’s your parents…..” I felt my heart dropped to my feet.

Fuck.

[daddiesgirlsff]

MEET THE CAST!! More cast members will be added as the story progresses. Click on the photos to reveal names

[seenoevil-ff]

🔥🔥🔥

[materialgirlsfanfic]

Chapter 8 - The Confessions of a Cold Heart...

LONDON

“She don’t believe in shootin’ stars, but she believe in shoes and cars. Wood floors in the new apartment, Couture from the store’s department…” - FLASHING LIGHTS KANYE WEST 

The room was similar to a secret vault where nostalgia lingered in the space. Memories of teenage moments that shaped the trio up until their semi adulthood could be recollected from them all. In the back of the remodeled closet now strictly for London’s shoes, were Debutante balls, and pageant dresses used as their capsule of tween accomplishments where sashes and trophies hung against the wall. A ten year old London, and Brooklyne, with Spice Girls concert tees each kissed the cheek of the birthday girl Kiersten on her eleventh birthday. All three them could remember as if it was yesterday taking the photo with all five spices that was framed on the wall; their years of development spent in the very room they now settled together in as their style idol Carrie Bradshaw was shown on the plasma screen TV; one of her many love scene fiascos with Big being shown.

“I want a love like that someday…” The gentle sigh that left her lips startled Kiersten, who while sitting under London getting her hair braided into two French braids.

“Come again, Grinch?” Her brow raised.

“Oh fuck off, I’m serious. Love is a beautiful thing…when it’s the real thing, however. I’m just…”

“So…so…” Kiersten interjected.

“Make me use those scissors two inches away. Don’t…”

“Just so…picky, Lo.”

“No I’m not!”

“Bitch bye!” With a bowl of steamy kettle popcorn nested in her arms, Brooklyne waltz in taking a seat on the chaise close by with a clear objection written on her face. “I know you’re ass ain’t lyin’ like that.”

“Well what do y'all expect? Y’all see how picky I am about my shoes, should a man be any less? I’m simply ridding myself of potential headaches.”

“But you have to be fully open in giving love a try, and that won’t happen if you have standards higher than a fiend, London.”

One thing was for sure, and certain: Benjamin and Naimah Pierre didn’t raise a fool. But a witty, no nonsense princess rather, who never settled, or compromised anything for the sake of her value. London could literally meet what’s considered Prince Charming in his purest form in front of her eyes, but something so trivial like a failing grade in his past could dim his worth in her eyes. The girl was just that complex.

“Can we talk about something or someone else, please? You bitches are annoying.” Brooklyne, and Kiersten both giggled simultaneously, causing a mush to reach Kiersten head. Her eyes rolled to the ceiling taking a seat.

“Don’t get mad cause we’re tellin’ the truth, hoe. Keep it up, and your ass will be lonely with cats with your mean ass. It’s cause you haven’t been fuckin’ for the past three months huh?” With her mouth hung open at agape, a gasp followed from Kiersten and her both. Giggles, and snorts sounding off from Kiersten shortly after.

“Shut the fuck up, B! No!”

“Yes! You told me your last time was Frazier Lamonte  last semester and you said his shit was weak, and you’ve been upset ever since promising you’ll never fuck him, or another baseball player again. Unless it ain’t somethin’ you’re tellin’ us then, cause uh..as far as I know, ain’t nobody been dippin’ in them sheets.” Truth was, aside from her battery operated boyfriend, she hadn’t indulged in any sexual acts in months. She was silently admitting that the pent up aggression she had to be coming from somewhere, and horny aggravation could be that place.

“You. Bitches. Are. The. Worsttttt!” She groaned, and muttered in a pillow nearby that covered her face.

“Awww Lo Looo, it’s okay. You’re not alone. It hasn’t been as long as three months though, but still it’s okay.” She allowed herself to be pulled in Kiersten embrace, pouting against her will.

“That’s so fuckin’ sad, that’s expected from Ki’s prude ass. But your ass…” She didn’t appreciate the chastisement no matter how accurate it may have been. Brooklyne shook her head and waved her hand in the air. “Point blank simmer down from your high ass horse, hoe. Speakin’ of which, hey hot ass…” She turned to Kiersten who averted her attention to the screen gulping subtly. The yellowness of her skin reddening by the seconds. “Tell us alllllll about your trip to LA.”

“And don’t leave anything out.” London could admit she was still feeling some type of way that Kiersten not only secretly jetted off, but ignored damn near everybody for the entirety of the time.

“Okay, okay gosh. I was actually working, so you guys don’t have to look at me like that…shit.” With a twiddle of her thumbs staring down at them, the brim of her lips broke into a grin. “ It was fun, as you know LA is gorgeous but the nightlife? Man, its really amazing out there. The fact that I rubbed elbows with industry heads behind the scenes, aside from the everyday celebs we see was pretty cool. Put things in perspective for me, you know?”

“Cut the shit, you fucked him? Hm? Don’t lie either.” A gab was placed in London’s hip as Brooklyne crawled closer to them, forming a circle, with the now half eaten popcorn bowl enclosed in the middle.

“No! Goodness Lo, what do you think of me? We haven’t even kissed…well technically.” Of course she believed Kiersten, but the speculation from her had to be voiced.

“We’ll speak about him, later. As long as you weren’t doing anything I wouldn’t d-”

“Won’t do.” Brooklyne mumbled through a snort.

“Shut the fuck up! Wouldn’t do, we don’t even have to discuss all that at the moment. But about you moving out Ki…are you sure? I mean Aunty Fi has her moments, but I think things will be better. That’s a big step you’re taking.”

“…I’m sure. ” They all heard the crack in her voice, seen the tears form, and knew what had to be done. Firstly before anything, a warm embrace they circled her with a soft stroke of her back; which although may have ceased the tears,  London knew was just the start of the the havoc that awaited. Following a call made to their father’s real estate agent the very next morning.

“I call first dibs on decorating the living room, bitches.”  

————————

TWO WEEKS LATER…

Slow deep breaths. From the moment she traveled the long hall that led to the dungeon of doom also known as her daddy’s office, London blocked all oxygen passageways out of nerves that crept up out of the blue. She never knew what to expect from her father; and not wanting to be a disappointment always fucked with her nerves and senses. She gulped so deep she ended up swallowing her doublemint gum. As she entered, watching him focus keenly, like expected, on the pile of papers nestled in front of him, she stood in place for a lengthy pregnancy pause. Alright, here we go…She motioned for Rosie to now enter fully who was instructed to trail behind her for safety purposes.

“Daddy I did it, and it only took me a week, an extra three days including, my über sense of style.”

“Okay, let’s hear it.” There she stood in her DSQUARED2 stilettos broken into perfection two days prior for this given moment. The close fit hot pink suit, thanks to Burberry aiding as an accessory to her new found glory of sophistication.

“You are now looking at the apprentice to Monica Punes, of Punes Industries and publishing. I’m like her shadow; a level up from the help-” She glanced over at Rosie, who was holding with patience, her neon yellow snakeskin briefcase courtesy of Kate’s Spade. “Sorry Rosie, not to say that’s not an…okay profession to add to accolades. But anyways it’s a level up from her assistant. Who might I say had these awful muddy brown shoes. And the-”

“London, when do you start? How did you get hired? Focus baby girl…”

“Oh! Yeah, sorry daddy. So It boiled down to me shopping,” His brow raised. “But! But…I wasn’t getting something for myself, okay I was. But it was for a suit, anyway this old lady was making the biggest mistake of her life. I mean biggest! She tried matching velvet with latex, and suede shoes! The colors didn’t even coordinate.” His gazed reflected tortuous boredom signaling her to get to the point.

“So your amazing daughter stepped up to the plate, and did her magic. Turning tragedy to triumph, the old lady just so happened to be my now boss’s, mother-in-law! She was watching the whole time, ducked in the section of Prada like a creep, but that’s not the point. I was basically hired on the spot when she realized the level of expertise I had with haute couture; giving me a greater advantage after my interview. Plus I had my resume in my messenger bag.” Her cheese expanded for miles, as a rain of claps sounded off from her father. Approval. Especially coming from her hardass of a father, felt great. Being his disappointment  was never something she could even fathom, in every aspect of her life. With her mother not physically here to witness her growth to womanhood, she needed someone besides herself to make proud, and her daddy was at the very top of that list.

“I’m very proud of you baby girl,” He slid back a drawer in his desk, and a sparkle of silver, with a platinum gold emblem caught her eyes. My Keyssss! She held back a squeal, as he slid across the pine oak desk, that and her other plastic blessing: her black card. “Here you are, a deal is a deal.”

For the next twenty minutes, after a long lecture of expectations, and instructions, she was free to go. Her first day on the job was to start in approximately an hour, and every minute that passed felt like a stripping of the old, and the build of a new and approved London. It was the sexy layer known as responsibility coating her aura. Being elated was an understatement.

iMessage: “Better Half ❤️”

          - Good luck, congrats on the job bitch! Send me pics of your attire. I know you’re snatched, and properly perched. 😘💋.

Her grin further expanded as she read the text from her better half, pulling up to the massive office at Madison Square Garden’s Monica told her to be. Well here goes nothing..

NOLEN

“Shorty! Come the fuck on, they said by six, the hell you doin’? Restructuring your face? Shit…” Nolen had to breathe, remain his full focus on the simple pattern of his oxygen flow before he snapped like he was bound to. For the life of him he couldn’t understand why it was taking so long just for her just to change out of one thing. He rested his head upon the leather sectional, waiting with his impatience building as the seconds accumulated. From the distance he heard rapid heels click.

“I’m sorry Noleyyyyyy, I just had to get real pretty for you. Sooo, how do I look?” Cheap. The flimsy blouse sagged off of her shoulder, that was see-through, adorned with a suede material skirt that barely reached the bottom of her finger tips. Her long elongated legs famously known for working the runways looked toned and slightly appealing in the scrappy stilettos that framed her feet. However as his eyes trailed up, in inspection of her face, the caked makeup made him grimace. He grabbed his keys headed for the door.

“If Monica carryin’ on complaining and shit, that’s your ass.”

The figure that stayed planted beside him, every runway show, every public appearance of concerts, industry parties, and gigs for these past weeks since day one was a nuisance; nonetheless a beautiful one he was forced to tolerate for the sake of showmanship, and publicity. As a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Sport Illustrated model, and Covergirl, Chance Hembrow delved him through the Hollywood doors he nonchalantly disregarded.

He was accustomed to the rusty, and tattered ones of the ghetto where the hinges were barely on, so for the worlds to collide at this given moment was a problem. Fashion, music, and pussy that’s all I need, this love shit though? Not happening; I don’t give a fuck how many models Monica shoved my way. He ignored the yaps, of Chance as they pulled up to the office that rested in the heart of Madison Square Garden, and gritted his teeth as her fingers wrapped into his own headed for the entrance. Flashes of cameras greeted them by the doorway from the paparazzi as their bodyguards kept them at bay. Chance wasn’t even that bad, and he was trying to come around to the dating thing, but the superficiality of it all, and the forced concept was something hard to stomach. I just can’t get with…

Before his eyes was the busy set of a Photoshoot, Mina the tiny Latina he recognized as one of the industries notable stylists, and wardrobe coordinators for music videos, came rushing in his direction sharing an air smooch with Chance.

“Nori, Chance glad y'all can make it. As a new fresh couple on the scene this is going to be…huge! I’m telling you,”

This.

She flipped away her bangs dyed in a fiery red framing her pudgy heart shaped face; the array of curls adding a girly but just as edgy touch to the mass amounts of tattoos decorating her body. She pulled Chance away giving him free reign to dart for the exit close by that he knew he couldn’t how ever, as Monica emerged shortly after with someone close behind.

“Oh, smile. Don’t look like such a grump, This is Vogue, a four page spread with your new Beau,” As delighted as things may have seemed, he couldn’t share the same sentiments with Monica. His scowl deepened facing her bright smile, that only agitated him more. The figure behind her however made his demeanor soften; the bright pink attire she adorned making her highlight amongst the place. What ever had her full focus, gave him the open opportunity for silent inspection, his eyes dripping down to her slender frame. Bad to the bone. Easily the jewelry laced in her ear, he recognized as simple studs from Lorraine Schwartz, complimented  the emerald patterned of diamonds framing her tiny wrist that held up her device, she speedily typed in. She balanced the tipping scale of her appearance showcasing unnecessary extravagance, but enough casualty to blend in, although it was quite hard to by first glance alone.

“Monica I told you…I don’t give a fuck. I’m not talkin’ to any interviewer about shit either.”

“Oh, hush! Bloody hell, London darling come hither,” Finally her head shot up, those piercing eyes that held a level of reservation he could remember since they graced forces on the plush carpeted flooring of Saks two weeks prior, was glanced into; the spark of recognition etched across her face. Her slow steps bridged the space they stood at.

“This is my new apprentice, a.k.a my shadow,” The smirk he offered wasn’t matched, instead her plump lips tinted in a glossy pinkish hue frowned slightly. “Shadow, meet my nuisance of a client-”

“By force,” He interjected placing his hands inside of his bomber Jacket from Hood By Air.

“…Nori, Nori meet London. As you can see, and what you’ll have the misfortune of knowing he’s quite a bit of an asshole.” If it wasn’t for the cheeriness that sparkled throughout her tone, you’d have trouble wondering if she was actually serious. But Nolen unapologetically could agree with the accuracy. He nodded his head, plastering a smile that showcased his beautiful pearly whites.

“Warranted of course. Nice suit.”

“Thanks.” London…Mmm. She walked past him not providing so much as a glance in his direction, and his gaze traveled to the material he could agree made her ass look amazing. She assisted Mina with wardrobe for Chance for the past hour. Choices for him however being discarded left to right as he refused to wear it frustrating the male stylist that gave up and stormed out. The commotion causing Monica to try and console the young dudes ego, as he surveyed the array of beverages provided on the side of set. The facade of this all reeked of a smell that seemingly heightened, and grew more aggressive at such occasions. No matter the fresh and crispness of the apparel, sweet smell of donuts, and light refreshments given for his convenience, he could still smell the bullshit linger in the atmosphere. I gotta get the fuck out of here, for real…

“Like I’ve been stating since I arrived I should just dress my fuckin’ self. I’m already here which is an issue within it’s damn self.” He grew more irritated as he settled for an apple he bit into spotting London quietly working at the corner, spreading a lint brush across a suede Lanvin Trench Coat. Her pretty slim fingers spread across rows of shoes she arranged below, and tucked a long wavy strand of hair behind her ears. He walked over leaning against the wall, looking below and watched in silence.

“You have a staring issue, it’s tragic.” She straightened her stance never looking his way and bypassed grabbing the coat rack of other jackets.

“It’s either you have personal issues to be dealt with, if a nigga can’t simply stare or you may be right, which wouldn’t matter.” He could bet his bottom dollar she wasn’t doing it intentionally, but it was almost if one was forced to zoom focus on her regal motions, again casual. But made to believe was practiced since birth she hadn’t realized herself, like she was simply naturally poised. When looked as if in haste the least bit, Nolen could see time was finding ways to keep up with her; he was truly wondering if London had the ability to make the world stop for her own convenience. Walking the perimeter of set like she owned it, and he had no doubts she could if she wanted to. She delayed a response, finally locking eyes with him.

“Your girlfriend, literally ten feet away from us both, is on a set for a spread about y'all relationship. But your eyes can’t seem to tear from my ass for two seconds to continue this Photoshoot, not to mention the temper tantrums you’re relishing out to, for those who’ll care to listen like a spoiled little boy. And you think I’m worried about you staring at me? Trust, I know I look good. Now quit pestering, while I attempt at making your girl do as well.”’

A twitch greeted his dick, the insult strangely providing further attraction, he wasn’t opposed to now make blatant. In Nolen’s world, privileged now with perks of having such fame, was decorated with “Yes” women, and men aiming to please. Their tolerance for the spoiled God son of one of the greats motivated by the assurance of a hefty check. But this…hot wire of a woman, was a rarity he found himself not minding too much. It was safe to say he didn’t cease with the pestering. It was far too late, in the midst of the commotion, rapid clothes selections, style changes, and a persistent Chance not letting up with the charades, it was made clear. He wanted her.

KIERSTEN

She coddled Trixie while walking the perimeter of what was to be her shoe closet, the crystal chandelier illuminating the peach colored walls. Heavy footsteps made an entrance, the striking cologne of Tom Ford’s Neroli Portofino tickling her nostrils as she turned to him, and blushed at his slow roam of eyes hovering above her; the daisy Dukes gave her thunder thighs of caramel thickness a full view for him to admire, that paired with a simple white crisp V-neck. I should’ve changed into sweats. She self consciously tugged down the bottom rim, in attempt to somehow magically make them longer, but it was no use. As Trixie twisted in her arms, in Messiah’s direction her barks started.

“You’s a mean little girl, you know that? Your mommy need to spank you, right after I spank her…” Kiersten cheeks flushed red, burying her face into Trixie’s sparkly white fur.  

“Trixie is perfectly fine, she’s just protecting her mommy from the big bully. Messiah look what I had to change into with you playing, I look like a dork.” She pouted, as he pressed his soft lips against her forehead, Trixies elevating barks not intimidate Messiah the least bit. After a painting session the two indulged in for the whole morning, the playful splatter of paint on the other took place. they washed up in the two bathrooms that occupied the first and second floor of the condo and took a break. Kiersten preferring her bedroom bathroom, as he took the one down the second hall. Approximately 40 minutes after much scruffing, she was finally able to relieve her nail beds the flombe peach color she at first glanced swooned over after much searching with her interior designer.

“You look…” He bit into his bottom lip, and a speckle of nerves rushed over her entire being. Tingling her toes, and fluttering her tummy further where her fingertips holding a loud and relentless Trixie, grew numb. Slowly the feeling was becoming the mundane when in his presence; where she couldn’t contain herself feeling like a shy little girl under the spectacle of the sexy specimen she was growing extremely fond of. Where Messiah was outright, and forward with his intentions and pursuit, her coyness was the response to it all. He was just too…much; not that she was complaining however.

“Mmm. Don’t try to hide shit. Matter fact, change out of that shit before we leave, or I’ma step over boundaries, and not be as respectful as I should.” As he walked out casually, as if he didn’t cause the friction between her thighs to heighten to a slight throb, she stared at Trixie playfully scowling.

“And you stop cockblocking.”

——————–

“Why must we fight over a color we decided was amazingly our favorite? It’s cobalt blue, ‘Siah. Like so pretty, and a custom from Tiffany’s gifted from my god mommy…”

“Blue is blue. Regardless, the shit is still ugly Kieks.” Her fist collided with his toned forearm, as the reserve effect resulted in her hurting her own self; wincing as she pouted, and wagged her fingers, she gave him a side eye pushing past him.

“So you mad at me cause your god ma got bad taste? Look at you, hurtin’ ya self.” A trail of chuckles was sounded off behind her as they walked the confines of House nestled in the corner of Manhattan. After a last minute cancel from London because of an emergency she had to handle, she was left to deal with the insults from Messiah for the past of hour of what he considered “ugly shit”.

“You have…One. More. Time.” The price gun was trained on him as they stood face to face. Antique items of leather chaises and sectionals from Bradley Cooper, and Lillian August standing as a witness inches near. Legs slightly parted, with her arms extended, her hands wrapped around the gun tightly, Messiah thick brows furrowed.

“Or…what?” He glanced up at her, while lifting a crystal vase he grimaced at. “Kieks, look at this man. Five stacks for this ugly shit, just because it’s designed by who…uh,” he took a step back and looked at the sign. “Knoll. They really bugg-”

She withheld a snicker, as a beep sounded off placing the price gun alongside his elbow, following his triceps, and finally his nose, walking closer bridging their gap.

“You’re ringing up to $0 Mr. King. That’s not a good thing.” She whispered softly as her chin rested on his shoulder walking behind him, her arms proceeding in wrapping around him. “And have some damn respect for the interior designing gods, okay? Knoll is amazing.”

“What was that?” She couldn’t fathom how these past weeks she wasn’t nauseated from being sea sick; she glanced up at his swimming waves, traveling her gaze to the plumpness of those lips she was getting quite familiar with, and withheld a breath as his face dipped closer. His strong arms wrapping around her waist, as their foreheads connected.

“You’re priced at zero with no respect.”

“Mami…I’m priceless.” Her teeth collided on her bottom lip as he whispered coolly into her ear. The minty substance of his breath providing a cool she shuttered at aside from his natural effect. A light peck was placed on her temple. “Bring your ass on so we can finish getting the rest of your things.”

After regaining enough strength to even walk across the room, she spoke with the sales associate checking in her items for delivery. With moments of interruptions from Messiah ridding her any hope of peace with every smooch, grope, and sweet whispers of shit talking he could only do best, they left out and met with the city’s concrete.

“You know you’re too arrogant right? Like its mind blowing.” Her cheeky grin broadened despite how annoyed she may have seemed. It was a contradictory, cause the same aspects she complained about, was what attracted her the most.

“Confidence, baby. I’m always accurate when drawing conclusions,” They crossed the intersection where his truck stayed planted, gleaming in black beneath the 90 degree weather that roasted the city. Shelling out a grand total of eight grand, didn’t break out much a sweat for her as much as this weather did.

“Whatever you say, Messiah.”

“You rollin’ with me for the rest of the day?”

She offered a nod as they were settled in his car letting the cool air caress their skin before any moves was attempted to be made. The sleekness of her fresh blowout shown through the rear view mirror she was now peeking at; she laid off on her usual dye jobs for a bit just to grow a little length. Soothingly a finger was traced through her scalp by Messiah, as she turned to look at him.

“You called your mom back, beautiful?” Despite the endearment, a scowl settled against her lips. The pure mention of her mother made irritation scatter across her entire being that her whole mood spoiled; Since moving out, she hadn’t spoken a word to her mother who became frequent with relishing out threats towards the voicemail she was met with. She didn’t anticipate leaving the bird’s nest so soon, but she was left with no choice. When it came to her father, as long as she was safe, making sensible choices, and often acknowledged through any form of communication that she had a father to speak to from time to time, he was content. So content, he proceeded in paying her rent in its entirety for a full year. The guilty conscience he must’ve felt was paid in full, with him neglecting to be at home as well. She turned away connecting her eyes with the busy street ways as he pulled off finally emerging with traffic.

“No, and I’m not going to. Can we stop at Freda’s please? I’m starving,”

“Kieks, I told you, you only have one mother, that’s all you got. I understand you’re hurt baby, and you have every right to be. But call her and at least see what she has to say.”

She contemplated the full ride over at Freda’s, with the attack of her nail beds giving some form of nerve control that failed. She knew the disappointment that remained on that side of the phone, so questioning to herself if she was actually ready to face such turmoil was expected. With reluctance, she finally dialed the number as they took seating upon entering the restaurant..

“Kiersten…Stephanie…Whitaker! You know I-…I thought I was dreaming, better yet having a nightmare when my only child decided to leave her home. But it was just my luck to see her not return for these past two weeks, what is wrong with you!?” Her terse tone projected in the phone line as she answered on the first ring.

“Consider how embarrassed I am! Where are you!? I shouldn’t have the Woman’s annual brunch in my home, just for them to question me the whereabouts of my family! I never, ” She must’ve been that loud, like she concluded because Messiah, slightly startled as his eyes surveyed the menu looked in her direction mouthing a “That’s her?”, nodding to which she nodded confirming so as she continued to listen.

“Mom, all you need to know is that I’m safe, I’ve been with London and B, so relax. You carrying on like this is unnecessary.”

“All I need to kno- DON’T YOU TELL ME WHAT’S NECESSARY WHEN I HAVE NO CLUE WHERE YOU ARE!” Did she truly care? Was the root of her frustration coming from  a mother filled with worry for her child’s well being, or an angry woman embarrassed because how this altered the perfect picture, she couldn’t seem to see was detrimental?

“Mom can I say something, please?” The rambles of shouts and screams pounding into her ear from the phone line, was disheartening. Messiah bore a hole to the side of her face while placing their food on the table, grabbing her hand as the tears threatened to fall. This is just…She took that as a no as the woman continued. Literally screaming, and lashing out expletives she recognized some containing a slight slur. Of course she’s drinking…at 11 fucking am. She hung up and allowed her head to droop into her hands, sliding her phone far away; in a motion that she hope escaped her from the issue with even such little of a distance.

“I take it that didn’t go well.”

“I’m sure you heard her loud enough to determine that for yourself. Messiah, I’m not going back…ever.”

“She needs time. Timing is everything; and although this isn’t the right time, things can still change for the better.” He cupped her face, providing a look of sincerity and assurance, that served as a dose of relief. She was enjoying every second it was to be in his presence as much as she could, because pretty soon she had reasons to deem all this as temporary.

“I don’t believe any of that, and frankly I don’t care anymore ‘Siah so please.”

He’s going to get sick of my issues, that hasn’t even remotely showed all of its self in true form every nook and cranny, yet. Kiersten wondered if entertaining the emotional cute, but chubby chick would be such a fun thing for him for long. She peddled his silence for judgement, as he locked eyes with her. Too intense. Kiersten quickly stared off and on the ground, clenching her eyelids closed as she pulled her face away.

“Look at me,” Her gaze remained on the black and white tiled floors, where his Timberland booted feet, nestled close to her Chanel tropiconic chained slides.

“I’m not asking you again.” The sternness of his voice was alarming; she slowly lifted her head meeting his eyes. “First things first, I’m not on the ground. When I’m talking to you, I need you to look at me. Furthermore, this defeatist attitude, ma? I’m not going for it. You spend so much time pondering on the negative all the time, that shit will fuck with your mental and I’m not having it. I don’t know about other niggas you’ve dealt with in the past, but I’m not one to sit witness to you emotionally, and damn near physically draining yourself to exhaustion over shit you can’t control. I’m gonna be your man, but on the flip? I’m keeping it as real as possible with you too. Me spoiling you with a affection, should never be mistaken as me babying you into letting you thinking this attitude is cool.”

She fluttered her lashes, trying her damndest to rid the tears emerging.

“Baby this world is cold, and precious souls like yours will diminish quickly if we don’t toughen that skin. I’m not about to have you have a chip on your shoulder, and live life like that. We gotta too much shit to do, I need that beautiful ass spirit to keep a nigga goin’. You hear me?” She nodded, and allowed the tears to pour through, slip down her cheek, and sprinkle droplets staining her face. Sniffles, could be heard in the midst of the casual murmurs of the attendees surrounding them, not paying them any mind. God, why must you be so emotional? Her doubts elevated with the thought her really being able to handle the likes of Messiah King, because again he was too much; but that wasn’t the problem, it was the thought of being inadequate that she fought to determine.

“I…I hear you, Messiah.”

“Good, now come here.” Their lips collided, and deepened sensual, and sweetly. The rarity of the occurrence, only kissing him twice,made her sketch the feeling in her memory, it being just that damn good, but she eventually pulled back. Her morale surfacing to aid in encouraging the decision to settle herself, and turn it off. Getting hot and bothered by a simple kiss, was another decision not so wise she concluded as she smiled weakly and began eating.

IMANI

For the life of her, Imani couldn’t comprehend how a scent made so sweet could reek upon the person who wore it. Like claps to her ears, the slither of steps could be mistaken for a hiss. Caged Gianvito Rossi’s pranced in her direction, causing with each step her smug to deepen. The squint in her bright brown almond shaped eyes concealed under lavishly long individual lashes, further crinkled in annoyance. Her mood was shot instantaneously, taking a pause in her tampering of the GHD flat irons nestled in her tight grip.

“What in the fuck are you doing here? And I’m bein’ generous to even be askin’ your ass right now.”

“Whose the bitch Mi? Keep it real. I don’t have time to waste.”

Her set of deep chocolate eyes, a perfect match to her rich skin tone, held a withdrawn coldness to them Imani stared into with just as much, if not more fury. It took a good dose of restraint, with the help of her office desk bridged between them both that kept her from lunging forward.

“When I clocked your funny lookin’ ass upside the head the last time, you ain’t learn right? Monique get the fuck out my establishment before I really show my ass. Fuck you askin’ me questions about another bitch, for?”

Nothing troubled, and stirred her soul more than the presence that lied before her, since she was introduced. Her conniving ways dripped from her pores, and stained her designer attire that was paid courtesy of being Messiah’s one and only baby mama…from hell.

“For the past two weeks, I’ve barely been able to get a hold of him, and if it’s not pertaining to Tori, two seconds of his time is too much!” Imani rapidly blinked, and furrowed her brows, as she drilled her own brain in thought. Well he has been pretty ghost, even being home, since his last escape. Aside from the calls made, and his random drop ins to stick his nose, in her business, since chewing him a new asshole for his trip, she hasn’t been in his; regrettably so she pondered what really was the reason. Still that’s none of this bitch’s business.

“Don’t ask me nothing, if you were supposed to know you would have. It’s been five years and your ass still can’t comprehend when someone doesn’t want your ass. By the time I come back, be out my fuckin’ office.”

The slam of her door to the back, where another portion of her office, a vast walk-in closet resided, was walked into as she slammed the door shut leaving Monique confused, and furious.

————–

“Soooo,” It’s crazy how how this boy looks so much like dad.  After some negotiation, and declare of an emergency needed of his presence, Messiah trailed over to Imani’s which wasn’t an issue although he was curious as to why the visit was such an urgency; Imani leveled her gaze over the rim of her wine glass she thought was crucial for the occasion. Six clients since 9am, and the presence of her stubborn sibling was enough for her to pour another glass in which she did.

“Yeah, so. You good?” Caution sparked within his eyes.

“Uh, yeahhh. I have to be in trouble just to check in with my brother?”

“It’s as if you’re always in trouble, you hit me up so intense damn near every day.”

“Shut the fuck up, alright? I only blew your ass up cause you disappeared. And now I get the sense you’re doing it again, so I’m checking in. Like good siblings do…so when I ask you this question. Dont. Lie.” The little bug placed in her ear, clearly had Imani on edge; she hated that the bitch triggered her weakness and that was the worry of her brother’s wellbeing.

“Imani, man. I look like a little ass boy to you?”

“Like. I. Said. I’ll punch you square in your shit, nigga. Now, don’t lie! Who’s the girl?” Her bright smile presented her deep crater dimples, as it further expanded by the annoyed look he displayed. It didn’t help ease her speculation after a constant glimpse, and text into his phone since he arrived at the salon.

“What girl, Mi?”

“The hoe you’re entertaining, that I may have to beat ass over, and your trifling baby moms for bringing her skank ass over here! Now…again, who? The bitch must be special because you can’t eve-” She threw a plastic comb at his head, as he focused back on his device. “pay attention!”

“Mani, man! The fuck you talkin’ ‘bout? Wait…Monique was here?”

“Yes!”

“The fuck she wanted? Tori with her moms, so…” His face etched with further confusion before dismissing the thought altogether. “Fuck her, anyway why’re you so violent? You gotta beat up every girl in my life, Mi?” He cheesed wide which only confirmed the speculation, and arose her annoyance.

“WHO NIGGA!? Make me kick asses this beautiful day of a thursday because you wanna keep secrets, and shit!”

“Who you fuckin’? Let’s talk about that. What nigga I gotta kill, and bring havoc to, in these streets? Let’s talk about what really matters.” He sat up, and locked eyes with her: the intense stare off was short lived due to Imani’s heavy roll of the eye.

“I’ll find out soon, like I do always. And when I do, just know it won’t be pretty, For all this trouble, and secrecy I would hope she’s worth it. Stupid ass…”

“Shut yo ass up.”

[collateralfiction]

04

Bailey

It had been three long days; lack of sleep, uneasiness and stress present within me. French Vanilla coffee kept me awake or at least tried to keep me awake because anything else simply wasn’t working. My days seemed longer even when I remained busy and in school. There was a noticeable change in my behavior, but I waved it off as nothing too major. Rayne certainly took notice and wanted to immediately do something about it, but I wouldn’t allow it. At this point, there was only so much I could do and that meant talking to Ryan was at the top of my priority. It just seemed like I kept procrastinating, so I never got around to doing so. It was now or never, and I had to speak up because this was starting to drive me nuts.

Bags under my eyes, I was slowly breaking out and I was lashing out at everyone.

Ryan and I decided to meet up at his place since he was already home and I had been outside for the last thirty minutes. I had went for a quick jog around my neighborhood, more so to clear my mind before coming face to face with Ryan. I didn’t know how he would react to my sudden news, but I didn’t want him to fly off the handle either. Knowing how Ryan is, there’s a possibility that he will find some way to make his intentions known to his avengers, on how he feels. That, I was trying to avoid. But if a reaction like that occurs, I can’t fault him. I should have spoken up when it happened.

Taking in a deep gust of air, I went and opened the door to his apartment since I was given a key when he officially moved in. I softly closed the door behind me, sliding out of my New Balances to find him. The apartment was rather dim, so I suspected that he was taking a nap or something of that sort. I stopped by the kitchen, nowhere to be found. I stopped by his bedroom, wasn’t there either. From the distance, I heard the T.V. on so I made a detour and went there. Laid out in a pair of basketball shorts and a hooded sweater, Ryan sat on the couch, watching reruns of old Martin episodes. It did look as if he was close to falling asleep since he hadn’t heard my footsteps nor when I entered the house. I walked towards him and cuddled myself up against his body, feeling him move slowly while opening his eyes.

“Hi, baby,” I cooed. If I buttered him up, there’s a chance he wouldn’t be as angry. I wrapped my arms around his neck as I sat down on his lap. He rubbed his eyes lazily before staring at me with a small smile. My fingers traced the outline of his lips as I mulled over how I wanted to bring this to his attention.

“What’s up?” he mumbled, his fingers trailing under the Nike sweater I was wearing. I felt goosebumps align my skin as soon as his hand made contact with my warm skin. It was always like an electromagnetic connection when he did that, and I couldn’t help but blush or get shy.

“I have to tell you something,” I sighed. “And I want you to listen closely, baby,” I planted my hands on either side of his muscular shoulder and waited for him to acknowledge what I said. Mentally, I was debating on how to go about this and a part of me held regret for even mentioning such a thing, but it was a little too late. He sat up straight, staring at me with anticipation. I figured it would be best if we weren’t in this position, so I slid off his lap and sat next to him. He twisted his head to the side to look at me.

“Go ‘head,” he muttered.

I began to twiddle my fingers against one another, avoiding his gaze. I didn’t know what to tell him first because over the last week or so, a lot has occurred, and I don’t know what he rather hear. Sighing roughly, I just felt like it would be best to say something, rather than harbor all this information inside of me - knowing it wouldn’t do any justice if I kept it to myself. “The day we went to the warehouse, I sat on the couch waiting for you to be done with your conversation, remember?” A quick head nod ensued, immediately his body became tense. I had moved my hands to caress his arm and the once relaxed posture of his, slowly became guarded and alert. “Uh, while you were in there, someone was outside talking to me. I – I don’t know what his name is, but he was tall, had a light complexion, big eyes, a go…” My rambling was cut short by him muttering a name that I did not hear. “Huh?”

“His name is Adrian,” he cleared his throat. His voice was tight, almost as if he was disgusted to utter his name. Adrian? So that was his name? I was expecting something more vicious to be his name. With a name such as Adrian, you would think of someone like that to be a sweetheart. But who I was kidding? I didn’t know him from a can of paint, let alone know how vicious he could be. “Continue,” he gritted.

“Well,” I sighed. “He was talking to me, but I wasn’t able to understand much of what he was saying. At the end of the day, it seemed like there was new ulterior motives he had. He talked about how his plans have changed now that he seen me, and I’m scared and he knows my name!” I rushed out. “But,” I trailed off. “That’s not all,” With an aggravated look etched onto his face, he motioned for me to continue. “A few days ago, hours before you came over, Adrian came by my apartment. He knows where I live, Ryan!” I shrieked. His facial expression was exactly what I expected; anger resided all over his face. I waited for him to unleash the massive amount of anger that he had towards me but instead, he simply stood, went to the back towards his room, came back with a rolled blunt and sat back down, taking long pulls. “What the fuck, Ryan?” I shouted. I stood and crossed my arms over my chest.

“I figured some shit like this would happen. I did,” he chuckled bitterly. “That’s why you and your sister are moving to New Jersey,” The statement came off as a command but that was the last thing I was looking to hear nor want. Let alone getting Rayne to cooperate with something like that. A couple of days ago when Adrian made his appearance, it was obvious that Rayne and I were both surprised to see someone we don’t know, leaned against our door. While we both had a shocked and speechless expression on our face, Adrian seemed to be everything but that, slightly putting fear in myself. I tried to get Rayne to go inside so I could handle the situation without her, but she insisted that she would do no such thing, leaving the three of us to remain outside. No way was I bringing him inside my abode. I’m surprised he didn’t break in instead.

Out in the hallway, he introduced himself to my sister, easily managing to pass the introduction of his name. Rayne kept it cool, giving him a false name and staring at him with a blank expression. Not once did she falter, and she stood her ground, no matter how dangerous he might have looked. His intention of coming my way were to simply to say, I have a week’s time before things got dangerous and sticky. This was clearly a message for Ryan but given to me, to instill fear which he succeeded in doing. Whatever problem between the two of them that had happened, their plan or deal had backfired, and Adrian wasn’t going to let it go until the playing fields were even.

If a week’s time had passed, the plan that I was now involved in, somehow, would be put into motion. According to Adrian, he would hate to see that occur, seeing how in love I am with Ryan. After that, he did the unthinkable. He was bold for sure. He had pulled me closer towards him and whispered near my ears that I’d be his. His words had sent a tingle down my spine and as you would expect, it wouldn’t be the good type of tingle but this one? It felt different and I’m a bit conflicted on how I feel. I’m supposed to be scared for my life but at this point, I was too numb to react fast enough. With that being said, he walked away as if he hadn’t just threatened my life.

That night, Rayne and I had got into such a heated argument I had no choice but to go crash at Chance’s crib and then after that Ryan had made a quick appearance. I wasn’t in the mood to argue so I did what was in the best interest for me. Now, three days later, I’m coming to Ryan with everything and he wants me to move to New Jersey? No.

“No,” I spoke, quickly shaking my head. “I’m not going to go into hiding if that what you're hinting to. I have school to attend,” I said which seemed to be the only reasonable excuse.

“So, you rather risk your life and go to school than be safe and continue schooling somewhere else?” he questioned me in disbelief. I easily was able to see his point but at the same time, what I didn’t want to give acknowledgment to was changing my lifestyle up because of someone else’s influence on my life. It just wasn’t fair; to be thrown into the middle of a situation I have no information on brings me to my reason of why this isn’t fair. The least I could be involved in is knowing why exactly Ryan thinks it’s in my best interest to move to New Jersey for a bit.

“Ryan, this isn’t making any sense,” I whined. “What could you have possibly done to Adrian that has him coming after you like that?” I sighed, trying to reason with him. I snatched the blunt from him, ridding it off into the ashtray. He stared at me with a blank face, but this wasn’t the time for him to smoke and relax. I seemed nonchalant about this whole ordeal; he seems extremely nonchalant now.

“Sit down,” he said, motioning to the space that I was previously siting in. Reluctantly, I decided to sit down because I didn’t know how serious this situation could be and it’d be best if I was rested comfortably on a surface. “First and foremost, I didn’t bring you to the warehouse intending for you to get put in the crossfire. Never would I do something like that. But I knew Adrian had plans and I wanted you to be around me, just in case. Obviously, that was wrong on my part and I apologize. I don’t know why the fuck Adrian was talking to you but if anything, it had to do with a deal that occurred years back,” he sighed. “Although I don’t fuck with him, G put us on the same project to handle. I was supposed to execute the killing and he was to worry ‘bout the business. Essentially, we were taking out one of the biggest stock brokers who had ties to the bank we were targeting. Long story short, the plan we had fell through and here we are now,”

“What are you missing with this story?” I uttered, running my hand through my hair. I felt like pulling every single one of my hair strands out.

“When we got caught, I testified against him since he was technically caught tampering with private information. That landed him almost a life sentence, but he pleaded guilty, so they gave him a two year bid and for him to lose ‘bout five million dollars,” My eyes exploded with that new found information. Five million dollars? What type of shit is that? I don’t know what type of business they were conducting to lose five million dollars; I was flabbergasted. “It’s funny how much money an illegal business can make,” he chuckled bitterly. Probably why he’s addicted to the game.

“So, what’s the problem now?”

“He wants my head on a platter,”

“And?”

He looked at me dumbfounded. “Bailey, think for a minute, alright? I bailed on the nigga, ain’t finna go down for someone I don’t give two fucks about, right? As any person with common sense, you wouldn’t be too pleased if someone testified against you but that’s not what he’s angry about. It’s the revenue, the guap, all of the money that he lost. In his mind, he believes I owe it to him and sadly, I don’t,” he chuckled. “I went to G’s warehouse to discuss a few jobs he wanted me on, not to get ambushed by them. G didn’t even know. The two that were in the room with me though, Caiden and Justin, did say some shit ‘bout me owning money but I didn’t pay much attention to it until now,” he paused, shaking his head. “Him coming to your crib is a fuckin’ warning that you should take heed to. Shit, I am. I don’t trust the nigga as far as I can throw him and I’m trying to do what’s in the best interest for you. You not even trying to see it like that,” he huffed.

All his words were shuffling around in this brain of mine and I was trying to figure out a way to help get him out of hot water while avoiding getting myself burnt. I massaged at my temple. I felt a little bit better now knowing and being in the loop, but it still didn’t diffuse the situation.

“I can’t go into hiding, Ryan. That doesn’t seem realistic. Why can’t I stay here with you?” My fingers immediately went towards my iPhone that comfortably sat in the pouch of my sweater, quickly shooting Rayne a text message to check and see if she was alright. His hands dragged along his face tiredly before he shrugged.

“I’m not sure if that would be safe either,” he stated. “Let’s be real, these niggas probably know where I reside at and I’m barely home as is. I don’t want something to happen and I not be around, that would kill me,”

“So how would New Jersey be a safe haven for me?” I questioned.

“You’d be out there with your mom and in a remote location, babe. It’s good,”

“I don’t know,” I murmured. “I have to think about it,” This is really bad timing. I have to think about what would be in the best interest for me and not only me but Rayne as well. With her not enrolled in college, she could easily move to mommy’s house until things quieted down. Me on the other hand, I might as well do the same. I could still go to school, I would just have a longer commute. Weighing out the outcomes was killing my brain cells, but it was necessary.

“Think about it for me, alright?” Ryan mumbled, pulling me to lay against his chest.

“I’m honestly scared,” I whispered. His hand immediately went to comfort me by gently rubbing my back in soothing circles. I wanted to believe that everything would truly be alright, but I wasn’t too sure. I had my guards up and the last thing I wanted was to become involved in something that has nothing to do with me. Adrian’s vendetta is with Ryan, not me. But it seems as if I’ll be a better asset in his ploy to hurt Ryan where it really hurts. Placing a kiss to my temple, I wrapped my arms around him as soon as Rayne texted me back, notifying me that she was okay, adding an angry emoji next to it. Whatever. She could be mad all she wants but if she’s fine at the end of the day, I’m good.

Noticing that I was doing much better than before, his hands slid down to my ass, giving it a firm squeeze. “Do you always have to ruin a moment like that?” I hissed.

“Shit is real plump. If it takes your mind off of things for a bit, I’ll do it all the time,” he winked. As much as that may be true, the next person my mind immediately went to in concern was the one I was currently laid up with. I couldn’t lose him too…

Adrian

“That’s a fucking foul!” I yelled. I wasn’t even going to lie, I was salty I was losing this basketball game to a two person team; consisting of Caiden and Brian. The fact that Brian was even making buckets at this point was adding to my distaste. The shortest one out of all of us and yet he’s scored more than I. This is supposed to be my sport. I didn’t understand. “Y’all cheating,” I muttered, watching as Caiden continued with his layup.

“Were we really? We reached 40 points already so that’s game,” Caiden chuckled. “Cheer up, chump,” They thought this was funny. I saw nothing funny to it but whatever. Reaching into my duffle bag, I pulled out my Vitamin Water and took a long sip from it. I figured we all needed to relax for a bit before we put my plan into action so a quick pick up game in a nearby park seemed like the best bet for us. I know Ryan wouldn’t be able to come up with 5 million in a week, let alone something remotely close to that. So, I moved with precaution. Bailey will simply be collateral until I get what I need. Nothing more, nothing less.

However, one thing between Ryan and I that we happen to share in common is Bailey’s worth. If he claims to love her as much as he shows, he would easily comply with my orders. If not, I would still have the upper hand; one being Bailey herself.

“It’s been three days, you hear any word from Ryan?” Brian asked. We all left the park and headed back to the crib. The Spalding ball remained in my possession as I dribbled it along the concrete. It was late. It seemed like no was outside, but I knew better. There was always someone outside, especially when you least expect it.

“Of course not,” I muttered. “But, I stay true to my word. I gave them a full week. Four more days and we make our move,” I shrugged. It wasn’t much to it. Despite the dangers that lead to it, it was something that I established I was going to do. I had everyone’s backing but Caiden was the only one acting weary on this, at least making it known. I don’t know why. I’m not kidnapping her; it’s her being collateral. Plain and simple.

“You know this gon’ ‘cause major problems, right?” Brian said.

“No, it won’t,” I stated casually. “They know exactly where she’s at or where she’ll be… with me. They won’t dare run to the police because that’s essentially ratting on their selves. Other than that, her father is serving time so let’s allow the chips to fall where they deserve to be,”

“I respect it,” he mumbled. “But I’m just saying, if this girl does end up in your possession, try to handle her better than you have in the past,” My head snapped in his direction as I slightly lost control of the ball as it dribbled away. However, August caught it and kept it in his possession. Brian’s word had me stumped as to why he would say some shit like that. It rubbed me the wrong way and I couldn’t help but feel the urge to rock his shit one time. But I remembered that this was my brother and what he was saying was only to look out for my best interest, despite how I looked at the situation. This wasn’t my first time doing something like this, but this was definitely my first time attacking an innocent bystander.

“Yeah, alright,” I said lowly. By the time we came back, I was already raiding the kitchen in search of something delicious to eat. Leftover Pizza was on the top shelf of the fridge and that would consist of my dinner for the night. As soon as the Pizza was in the microwave, I heard multiple footsteps trailing in the kitchen causing me to look over my shoulder. Surprisingly, August and Caiden looked like they were in good moods since they both had smiles on their faces. “What’s that about?” I mumbled, and they heard it too.

“We cool,” August said, taking a seat at the table. “Brothers fight a lot. That ain’t nothin’ new,”

I nodded in agreement. “Glad to hear that,”

“We gotta talk right quick,” Caiden said. Always about business.

“What’s up?” I questioned. I opened the microwave and took out my Pizza, quickly taking a seat opposite the two. I had a hunch on where this conversation would go so I wouldn’t be caught off guard too bad.

“First off, Aug and I are heading to Arizona so I’m not sure if we’ll be here to help execute your plan. Five mil is a lot for someone to cough up in a few days,” I shrugged my shoulders. This was a prime example of why you must remain independent ‘cause at the end of the day, you only have yourself to rely on. This was a lesson in its own and it was one that I actually follow through with. I could easily ignore the situation but there was a deeper meaning to it which was fucking with me and I couldn’t let it go until the favor was returned. Family comes first, regardless if its blood or not; I keep that in mind.

“I’on care,” I said. “It doesn’t bother me so Arizona in what… two days?” They both nodded. “Y’all got all the things y’all need ready for the day? No guns,” I told them, more so to August.

“Don’t need to go subbing a nigga,” August chuckled. “I know what the fuck to do,” I raised my eyebrow. I had a slick comment in store for him, but I knew better than to entertain August and his emotional self. So instead, I just cut my eyes at him and looked over at Caiden. August had a lot of work that needed to be done with himself.

“We’ll see when you come back,” I said. “Everything else is good, right? Location, meet ups, exchange, vehicle, fake registration, all of that?”

“Got it all done this morning,” Caiden boasted. “But that’s beside the point. I can handle mine. Bailey though, where is she staying?”

“Here,” I yawned.

“So that’s what the extra room is for?” he asked.

“Yep,” I nodded. “She’s a human, right? I don’t have plans of harming her,” Yet. While I was away, I had made sure that the guys got some interior designers to fix up a spare room we had in the house that hadn’t been touched. They had no clue as to why I was remodeling a room, but I had a plan in motion since way back and apparently, it was finally happening since I hadn’t heard a word yet. I didn’t know it would be used to this extent but drastic times, call for drastic measures. If all else fails, my ulterior motives will prevail and everything else that comes with it.

“I don’t know how well I can believe that,” Caiden chuckled. “But I’m sure you know what you doing,” he said, standing tall. I nodded, taking a bite out of my Pizza slice.

“I do,”

August

I wasn’t 100% on board with this plan… well, at least the physical pain that might occur. At times, I wonder if what I’m doing is right; although I know the answer, but it feels like an adrenaline rush that I cannot get off of. Usually, I would be quick to jump the gun and do something without a second thought to it. At the moment, I couldn’t stand behind Adrian and Caiden with the plan they seemed to work on with one another. Anything else I could do but I wasn’t too sure if this was potentially something I was cut out for, despite my actions. “What’s wrong with you?” Caiden said, snapping me out of my brief thoughts. We were in the living room, waiting on his bitch to arrive. I was attempting to clear my mind, but Caiden obviously couldn’t have took note of that, huh? “You scared of the exchange already?” he said, laughing as if he knew that for sure.

“Nigga, what?” My voice raised, I sucked my teeth shortly after. That was the furthest thing on my mind, truth be told.

“So, what’s up?”

Sighing roughly, I dragged my hand along my face. “I know Bailey,” He must not have understood what I meant by that because his laughter was all I heard shortly after. Kissing my teeth once more, I spoke up to clear my previous statement. “I went to High School with that girl, C. How’s that gon’ look when she sees me?”

“Like I know,” he continued to laugh. “Why you care anyhow? You had some feeling for her or something?”

“Nah,” I mumbled. “I don’t know what to think to be honest,”

“So, don’t,” he retorted. “But on second thought, maybe you should,” I rolled my eyes at that statement. I think they will forever hold that against me which I believe is unfair. Compared to them, I’m relatively young and not only that, I make rash decisions under pressure. What happened a while back was never meant to be taken that far or more so, was intended for someone else. I guess you can say, shit happens. If I wasn’t as high as I was that particular day, the end result wouldn’t have been the way they turned out to be. Then again, I stand behind all my actions and if I can’t, that’s a bad reflection on me. I just wish things ended differently because this going back and forth shit isn’t fun at all.

“Can you let that go or nah? Y’all act like y’all some saints,”

“Baby bro, I never said that. But you know how we operate. You really threw us for a loop and didn’t even find the courage to warn us before you did it,” he sighed, his eyes planted on the flat screen television. I thought it was pretty fucked up how they all blamed this on me, yet they don’t even realize their involvement. For me, the conservation was done with. I was on edge to see how this predicament will unfold and most importantly, who will be the one to get hurt in the end of all this madness. I’ve known Bailey for a while now, well more so during our High School years. We weren’t close or anything, but I had a few classes with her and a mutual respect for her as well. Being that I live in the same house she will be staying in, things just might get awkward and questions will arise.

In High School, believe it or not, I was fully dedicated to my education and took it quite seriously. It wasn’t until I graduated that I began to slip which is the main reason Caiden doesn’t seem to support my decision in doing exactly what he does. I couldn’t understand why he doesn’t support something that he does all the time as a living but when I want to do it, it becomes a problem. I get that he’s looking out for me and making sure that I remain safe but who’s going to really listen to him when he goes against his own word? You can’t contradict yourself like that which is why I’m not following his orders. Rubbing my hands through my curly hair, I briefly reflected on my life and the decisions I was making. My mother would be ashamed if she potentially found out what I was doing plus the irrational decisions I have been making.

The doorbell rung, bringing me out of my thoughts. My head swooped in that direction and I slowly shook my head. I don’t understand how Caiden and Justin can have girlfriend while doing all these illegal ass activities. If we’re being real, I would never want my girl to have to go through that much pain but it’s nice to see some of the girls out there will ride for their niggas.

Can’t seem to find that for me though.

[primaballerinaff]

Can you reblog your rakim fanfic list please?

Um I dono where it is but 

onlylifeiknowff

nannystory - 'toxic'

cocainesbandz

intoodeepfanfic - but its locked :(

blindedaffectionff - im pretty sure its finished (i need to re read it, this doess wayyyy back) ..

thats all I know atm.. if anyone knows anymore please tell me!