Mr. Black

By Mardochee Saintfort and Lara Jean-Francois

Kalina Payton is an innocent young African immigrant who dreams of being successful in a new world. Davion Black is the scion of a drug kingpin, a lustful man whose only mission is to continue his father’s legacy by making the Great Land Cobras the most powerful gang on the streets of Redtown. When their paths cross, their obsession for one another forms an emotional roller coaster of love, sex, lust, arguments, guns, and a golden cobra! Amid the stress and danger of two very different worlds colliding, who is safe? Who can be trusted? And who will be killed?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Mar 1, 2019
• ISBN: 9781984569769

Mardochee Saintfort

Mardochee Saintfort was born on July 12th, in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. When she was five years old, she and her family immigrated to America and settled in the little town of Seaford, Delaware. Learning English while only speaking her native language at home was Saintfort’s biggest challenge. Growing up with depression, she turned to writing songs and poetry as an outlet her emotions. By the time she reached high school, Saintfort had started to write short stories. Then, in her junior year, she decided to start her very first novel, Mr.Black! In her senior year, she started to publish her book.

Book preview

Copyright © 2019 by Mardochee Saintfort.

Library of Congress Control Number:   2019902291

ISBN:              Hardcover              978-1-9845-6978-3

                        Softcover                978-1-9845-6977-6

                        eBook                     978-1-9845-6976-9

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Rev. date: 02/28/2019

Xlibris

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

788797

CONTENTS

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Davion’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Kalina’s POV

(Rated R; Read At Your Own Risk)

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jayna’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Jayna’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jayna’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

(Diary Entry)

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jazmyne’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Marty’s POV

Luca’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Davion’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Marty’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Luca’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adiana’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Emma’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Davion’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Davion’s POV

(Meeting Him)

(Dating/ First Argument/I Love You)

(Jazmyne)

Jay’s POV

Davion’s POV

Luca’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Davion’s POV

(1 Hour Later)

Kalina’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

India’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Sevyn’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

(Later That Night, 9: 30 Pm)

Davion’s POV

Trish’S POV

Layla’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Sevyn’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Davion’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Emma’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Adiana’s POV

Sevyn’s POV

Adia’s POV

Jayna’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

(A Few Minutes Later)

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Adiana’s POV

Jayna’s POV

Sevyn’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Kelly’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Adia’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Davion’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Luca’s POV

Adia’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

Sevyn’s POV

Davion’s POV

Kojo’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Smoke’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Jaelon’s POV

Trish’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Davion’s POV

(2 Days Later)

Marty’s POV

(Later That Night)

Smoke’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

Kalina’s POV

I Smiled To Myself! I Am So Lucky!!

Kalina’s POV

Kelly’s POV

(Twins Birth)

20190228_160815.jpg

KALINA’S POV

EVERY DAY OF my life is something new. The advantages I have, the love that’s in my heart. The chapters I have. I thought I was just another 22-year-old with a 9-5 paying off college and making ends meet. What’s missing from this? Love! The four -letter word that made me lose it all. My family, my sanity, my hope, my job… everything! How could one man turn my life into a total hell in the span of just a few short months? Cause me to lose everything…?

Let’s go back to the very beginning…

Atlanta, GA

I walked into the office with my purse in my left hand and holding my files in my right hand. I am a social worker and helping people is my passion. I walked into my office and put the files in the filer and logged into the system. A few minutes later there was a knock at my door.

Come in, I said.

The door opened, and my best friend Melanie walked in.

Hey boo, my system isn’t working, and I got someone waiting for me to fill out something for them. Can I use yours? she asked.

Of course, I said.

She thanked me with a friendly kiss on the cheek and I got up, moving to the side so she could take a seat in my computer chair.

Hello, a deep voice said.

I looked up and saw a dark, handsome man standing in front of my desk.

Mr. Black? I’m sorry about the move. This is my friend Kalina. We are in her office, Melanie told the stranger with a smile.

Hello Miss Kalina. He smiled as he grabbed my hand and kissed it.

Flustered, I looked up at him through my lashes and smiled. He is so fine!

Nice to meet you, Mr. Black. I gave my best smile.

Please, call me Davion, he smirked at me.

I giggled a little bit.

Thank you for letting us use your office, he said as he let my hand go.

It’s no problem. I am going to leave you guys alone, I said as I headed toward the door.

Thank you Lina! Melanie called to me.

I smiled at her and walked out. Mr. Black? Mr. Davion Black? He sure is a catch! The way his dark chocolate brown eyes stare at you as he gives you that perfect pearly white smile, the dark chocolate skin that seems to glow even more when the light hits him, the curly hair, and did I mention he’s very, very tall and muscular? He is dreamy, and he has manners! He’s like the perfect man.

I waited for Melanie to get done and about 20 minutes later, Davion walked up to me and smiled.

Kalina? he asked uncertainty.

Yes, it’s Kalina, I said to him.

Umm… would you like to get some coffee? he asked with his hands in his pockets. I looked at him from head to toe, admiring his beautiful face and how well his black suit fit him.

How about lunch? I get off at noon for lunch… I said as I got out of the seat.

Ok, sounds good. I can pick you up from here? he asked

I nodded, handing him my business card. He looked at it and smiled that perfect smile.

Kalina Payton, he chuckled

I giggled.

Well, I’ll see you at noon, he said.

Ok, see you then, I smiled.

He started toward the exit door. I was about to follow him until I stopped myself and went toward my office.

At noon I was finishing up some paperwork when I heard a knock at the door. When I picked my head up, I saw Davion walking in my office. I can’t lie, I felt like the room brightened up a little bit.

Hey.

Hey, sorry I didn’t call, he apologized sweetly

It’s cool; just let me finish up this paperwork, I said.

Ok, take your time, he said as he sat down. I looked back down at the papers I was working on and quickly started typing. I was also taking quick glances at Davion, who was texting on his phone. He didn’t seem to see me but when he caught me staring, he would smile. When I was done, I grabbed my keys, purse and phone. I walked out of the office with Davion.

This is your car? I asked in awe as we stopped in front of a black Bentley.

Yeah, one of them, he responded as he opened the door for me.

Thank you. I smiled to myself as I got inside the expensive vehicle.

He went to the driver’s side and when he got in, I was smiling from ear to ear and looking out the window, hoping he didn’t see me in my shy moment. He drove us to some fancy five-star restaurant I’d never been to.

This place is expensive…! I said as we pulled up to a restaurant called Soul.

I know, he said, his ego obviously boosted a little as he got out the car.

He came over to my side and opened the door for me. I smiled broadly and he locked the door and walked inside with me. Fizz, people called him as they lapped him up. Fizz… that sounds so familiar…

DAVION’S POV

THIS GIRL IS pretty as fuck! Pretty hazel eyes; she keeps her hair done; she has a thick, nice body; nice thighs, small waist, a nice round bumper; pretty brown skin and those sexy, kissable lips. Her sweet voice—and what makes it even more attractive is her beautiful accent. It’s from somewhere but I can’t tell from where. I love that she’s smart and I can tell one day with her drive this woman will be mine! When we went inside the restaurant, she appeared to be amazed at the sight.

You like it? I asked, though it was obvious she did.

Yes, it’s beautiful. She smiled up at me.

Thank you, I said.

She looked at me with a face filled with shock and joy

You… own all this? she asked.

I nodded

Oh my gosh, Dav! was all she could say

Fizz, my homeboy Sergio said as he dabbed me up.

I dabbed back

Hello, Kalina smiled kindly.

Hello ma’am. Fizz, I can tell you’re busy with a beautiful lady, so uh…. I’ll catch you later, Sergio said as he smiled politely and looked at Kalina.

I smiled and nodded.

Why do they call you Fizz? Kalina asked as Sergio walked away.

Umm, it’s just a nickname I’ve had since I was younger, so I grew up with it, I replied with a scratch on the head.

Do you want me to call you Davion or Fizz?

The streets call me Fizz, I said.

Ok, so what do you do to own all this? she asked as we sat down in my private booth near the kitchen.

Well, I am a businessman. I invest in a few things like artists, inventions, and also cars, I responded, sounding very professional.

Wow that’s amazing, she said, smiling.

You have a beautiful smile, I complimented her beauty.

So do you,

Hello Mr. Black, how are you sir? a waitress asked as she walked up to our table. She was a white woman dressed in black pants and a gold work shirt that said soul in black letters on the front.

I’m good, Christal. How are you? I asked.

Good. I am your waitress for today, so can I start you guys off with something to drink? Christal asked, holding her notepad ready to take our order.

Christal, my dear, bring me and this lady the special, the wine, the food—all the specials, I said.

Ok, will do, sir, Christal said as she walked away.

You know you didn’t have to do that, Kalina said.

It’s no problem. I’m the boss. I have no limit, I said.

She laughed.

Where you from? Because I hear a beautiful accent, I asked.

Africa, she replied.

Born? I asked her.

She nodded.

What made you come to the ATL? I asked.

Opportunity, she answered.

Care to explain? I raised my eyebrow.

Well, where my family is from in Africa, a poor neighborhood even though we had money and a big house, I felt bad for those who don’t have that so when I came to America, I was the first girl in my family to go to college and help people. Now my little sister goes to school. I’m helping her. Atlanta—it’s a dream, she smiled.

You have a little sister…you’re the oldest? I asked.

Yes, and I have an older brother. I’m the middle child. What about you? she asked.

Not really much about me. I just have my bros, I sighed.

Oh cool, you work with them?

They work for me. We’re making it big, baby; think about it: private jets, fancy cars, nice clothes and all that… living large, I said, bragging.

That’s good, Kalina smiled, seeming impressed.

Six months later, I’ve been seeing Miss Kalina for a while now. We are dating and it’s been about four months. Today I was taking her out since she wanted to be alone and talk about things. I got dressed in some jeans, a black tee and some Jordans. I did my hair and put on my black jacket, grabbing my phone and keys to the Bentley. I drove to her house and when I got there, I rang the doorbell and she answered. When Kalina opened the door, she bit her lip.

Babes. She looked up at me

Hey baby girl, I said as she got on her tippy toes and hugged me. She is so short compared to me. I am 6’4 and she’s 5’5.

You want to come inside and meet my brother and sister? she asked nervously.

I nodded, and she moved to the left to let me in. It was a cute, well-furnished, cultural, very pretty house.

This house is very beautiful, very comfy. I looked around.

Thank you, she smiled.

Kalina, have you seen my…hello, a young lady said as she walked out of the back room.

Hello, you must be Adiana. Kalina has told me a lot about you. I smiled as I held out my hand.

Whoosh…Kalina, I didn’t expect him to be this cute. It’s nice to meet you. Call me Adia (a-dee-ah). I heard a lot about you, she smiled as she shook my hand.

Thank you, you and your sister look alike, I said.

Thank you, let me go get our brother, Adia said as she walked out.

She likes you, Kalina smiled.

I smiled and pecked her lips.

Who’s this? a deep voice said.

Hi, I’m— I started to say.

Your Kalina’s boyfriend… not much to show, he said in a harsh tone.

He was looking me up and down. I could tell he didn’t like me and that was a big problem, with the way he stared at me in the eyes and face with no emotion.

KALINA’S POV

I KNEW MY brother would have a hard time accepting my boyfriend, but I didn’t think he was going to be this rude. I could tell by the look on Davion’s face he was mad but trying to hide it for my sake, and from the look on my brother Kojo’s face, he isn’t too fond of my boyfriend. They just stared at one another with cold, empty faces. I looked at Adia and she looked at me in worry. I then looked back at my brother and boyfriend.

Umm Kojo, this is my— I said before Kojo cut me off.

This boy you brought to me… you disappointed me. You fall for the first boy who tried to come to you… disappointment, Kojo said as he sucked his teeth.

Don’t talk to her like that! Davion said in my defense.

You stay out of it and you go upstairs! Kojo yelled.

Kojo- Adia said.

Shut up, Kojo yelled back at her.

Don’t talk to a lady like that. Adia, it was nice meeting you; can’t say the same for you, sir. Babe, I’ll be in the car, Davion said before heading out the door, slamming it behind him.

When Davion left, I felt a strong sting on my left cheek.

You know better, Kojo growled.

I had tears running down my face, but I wiped them away as I opened the door and walked out to Davion’s car. I got in and he was sitting there thinking.

I’m sorry, I said.

It’s cool. He spoke in a blank tone.

I’m really truly sorry. I would have never invited you if I knew he was going to act like that. Usually he’s a nice person; he’s just moody, I said.

You don’t have to explain it, he said as he started the car. He wasn’t himself.

Are you all right, baby?

He didn’t say anything, so I just sat back and looked at the fields we were passing. It was quiet… so quiet we could hear each other breathe. Whenever I looked at him, he would take quick glances at me then back at the road. Finally, we pulled in a corn field and he parked in the middle of it. He took a deep breath and turned off the car. He looked at me and I looked at him with the tears I had been trying to hide.

Why are you crying? he asked as he wiped my tears.

His gentle strokes under my eyes made more tears rush down my eyes.

I would not have let you in if I knew he was going to do that, Davion. I’m sorry, I cried.

It’s all ok, baby, I’m not mad. He was laying soft kisses on my forehead.

But it’s just shouldn’t have ever happened… I said.

I know and I wish it hadn’t but don’t think about it. We have a lot more to talk about, he said.

I looked at him, leaning closer, and crashed my lips into his. At first, he seemed nervous, but he deepened the kiss. I pulled away.

Can I ask you something? I asked.

Go ahead.

Umm… you know where I live, where I work—I just want to know why you never showed me? I said nervously.

Well, umm… I can show you my house but for work… that is more private, he said.

I raised my eyebrow. Private… I thought you were your own boss? I said.

I am, but it’s complicated baby girl.

I sighed and sat back crossing my arms. Are you keeping something from me?

No, he said harshly.

I nodded.

You hungry? he asked, trying to change the subject.

I shook my head and sat back. Before he could say anything that very second his phone rang.

I got to take this. It’s Fizz…Ima little busy…wait, what? Is he all right? Nah, give me a few minutes. I’m on my way! he said before he hung up. He didn’t say anything. I just looked at him and he started the car and headed for the highway.

I have something to do really quick, he said.

I nodded. He looked upset. We went toward the projects and as we went, I was kind of scared. As he pulled in front of a big dark house, he stopped the car. It was in a remote alley location. It looked old; the windows had dark curtains, and they were just the ugliest rusty brown color!

I’ll be back; stay here, he said.

I nodded. It was creepy, we were in the projects and it was dark and weird here! I mean, you could hear police sirens, people screaming, and it was just different from what I was used to. And this house with tinted windows—it was a strange location! It’s odd and funky, so what business does Davion have here? I wanted to go inside but I was too scared! I looked around the car in the glove box, in the places around I found mail, checkbooks, bank accounts! I saw checks for millions of dollars, I saw letters from prisons, jails, community services, and probation officers. All addressed to Davion Marcus Black! I looked deeper in the glove box until I hit cold, shiny steel. My heart dropped as my hands felt the barrel of a gun at my fingertips!

DAVION’S POV

I WALKED IN the house and went up the stairs and saw my best doctor working on one of my bros.

What the hell happened to him? I asked.

He was shot, the doctor replied.

By whom? When and where? How did this happen? I asked.

I don’t know but the men downstairs probably know, he responded.

I sighed and looked down at Sergio’s bloody body.

Be strong, Serge, I prayed.

I put my hand in his, but he wasn’t squeezing it or anything. I sighed and went downstairs into the meeting room.

So what the fuck happened? I asked.

They were quiet, which made me mad.

So nobody fucking knows!? I yelled.

Boss, he was shot, Drell stated.

I want an investigation done. Find out who did it. I want their mom dead, their sister dead, their cousin, their dad… I want the whole fucking family dead and that motherfucker…? Save him for me so I can look at him while I put a damn bullet through his brain! I yelled.

I didn’t wait for anyone to say anything. I was mad and just left the house, slamming the door behind me. I got in the car and saw Kalina shaking. I didn’t say anything to her, as I was mad already! I started the car and started driving.

What were you doing in there? she asked.

Don’t worry about it, I said bluntly.

She looked at me. What’s the matter? she asked as she grabbed my hand.

Leave me alone, I yelled as I threw her hand out of mine.

I saw her mood change.

Stop the car, she yelled.

For what? I asked.

Just stop it, she yelled.

I stopped the car. I watched her as she unlocked the door and opened it. I grabbed her left arm. Where are you going? I asked.

She didn’t say anything; she just tried to get out of my grip.

Kalina, where are you going? I yelled.

I’m leaving you alone, she huffed.

I sighed. I’m not letting you do that, baby girl, I said.

You don’t have to. I’m going home, she said.

Let me take you, I said.

I can walk, she said with a scoff.

I’m sorry, baby. We both had a bad day but come on, let me make it up to you, I said.

She sighed and closed the door. I let her go and started the car. She just sat back in the seat with her arms crossed with an attitude.

Babe… I said.

She didn’t say anything, I just heard her sniffling. I’d really been a dick! I pulled into a nice mountain range where people usually go jogging. I parked the car and looked her. She was looking out the window. I heard her low cries.

Kalina, baby let me explain, I said.

She sighed and turned to face me. Her eyes were full of tears and were red. I obviously hurt her.

I am sorry, baby, for yelling at you, I said as I held her hand.

I don’t understand what’s up with you. It seems like you’re pushing me away. Is it what my brother said? she asked.

I sighed. Today… is just a bad day for me, I replied.

So, you take your anger out on me? she asked.

I’m sorry; there’s a lot going on, I said.

Do you want to tell me the truth? What do you do for work, Davion? she asked.

I sighed.

What do you do? Be honest, she demanded.

I have my own hustle… I am a salesman, I replied.

And what else? she asked.

Kalina, I told you I invest in things too, I said.

She sighed in frustration.

Ok… just don’t let your anger out on me, she said.

I won’t, baby girl, I’m sorry, I said as I wiped her tears.

I cupped her face in my hands and slowly leaned in, kissing her soft lips. When I put my lips on hers, she wrapped her arms around me. I wanted her! I mean we were together, but I wanted all of her, right now. Her body, her lips, her everything! I wanted this woman to be my wife, the mother of my children. I pulled away and looked at her.

You’re beautiful, I told her.

She pulled me closer. She just kissed my lips. I put my arms around her. This woman is everything I want!

KALINA’S POV

I WANT HIM! I want him badly!! I put my hands in his top curls. I felt him place me on his lap as he kissed my lips.

I want to make love to you, he said.

I sighed. Babe, we are going too fast… I’m not ready, I said.

He sighed. I understand, he said.

I’m sorry… I’m just nervous, baby, I said.

Are you a virgin? he asked.

I nodded and blushed. He nodded in understanding.

I respect you for that, baby girl. He kissed me.

Thank you, baby, I said to him.

He smiled. Maybe he won’t try something funny!

You are very different, Kalina, and I really like that about you, he smiled.

Thank you, Davion, I smiled.

Why did you bring me out here? I asked as we got out the car. I came around his side and looked up at him.

Well, we’re both having a bad day and this is where I usually come to look at the view and relax, he responded as he pulled me closer.

This was the closest we’d been to one another!

Well, it’s beautiful, I smiled.

Not as beautiful as you are, he said as he kissed my lips.

This is what I like! I pulled away from him and he sucked on my bottom lip. I giggled childishly.

I like that, I smiled.

He smiled and grabbed my hand and our fingers interlocked. He led the way to a beautiful mountain peak. When I got closer, I saw a beautiful river at the bottom of it. The view was so beautiful; I mean this is a breathtaking view, beautiful blue sky, the sun shining bright, the river flowing so nice, you can hear the pretty chirps of the birds singing a pretty tune…

This is where I come when days are tough. I let the river take away my pain, he said.

I looked at him. How long have you been coming here? I asked.

Five years—ever since my mom died, he sighed.

Sorry, I said as I rubbed his back.

It’s all good; she’s not suffering, he said.

Was she sick? I asked.

He sighed, and I could tell this was hard for him. I looked at him as he put his head down. I sighed. I honestly didn’t know what to say.

Umm, I’m sorry… this must be…awkward for you…umm, you want me to take you home? he asked.

No, I want to be with you, I said.

He nodded and I pulled him into a warm hug. He held me closer.

You’re special and that’s something unique, he whispered in my ear.

You’re special too, I said.

He looked at me, pulling me closer to him, and I leaned in.

7pm

At home- I walked in the house happy; I felt like I was walking on clouds. After the mountains Davion and I went to the fair. He won me a teddy bear! I turned on the lights and saw Kojo sitting on the couch, arms folded above his chest, with a bottle of rum in front of him. I knew he was still in the situation with Davion and honestly, I didn’t want to hear it, so I started up the stairs.

Come here, Kojo said as he came up to me.

I stopped in my tracks.

Where have you been? he asked in an angry tone.

I walked down the stairs and he walked up to me.

I was out, I responded.

Out where? he asked in an angry tone.

I went… I said before he yelled over me. It made me shake.

You went out with that boy and you slept with him, he yelled.

No, I didn’t, I cried in defense.

Yes, you did… you let him use you. He doesn’t love you; you are dirty, he said.

I sighed.

He thinks you’re stupid; leave him alone, he yelled as he left.

I sighed and just sat there alone in the living room.

ADIA’S POV

I GOT UP from my room. I heard Kojo yelling at Kalina and I could only imagine how upset she was! She just wants to love! I walked down the stairs and saw Kojo had left the house. I saw Kalina sitting on the couch. I could hear her quiet sobs; she was hurt. I sat next to her and pulled her into a warm hug.

It’s ok…don’t listen to him, Kalina, I said.

She pulled away and looked at me. I want him to be supportive of this relationship. I know Davion won’t hurt me, she cried.

I pulled her closer. Just give Kojo some time… you know what he saw and what we’ve been through; you know he doesn’t want that for you and me again, I said, wiping her tears.

But Davion isn’t the same…I can tell he’s different, she said through her tears.

Just give him some time; he just is looking out for you, I said.

She looked at me and sighed.

Kojo’s POV (Flashback 10 years ago)

I heard Adia’s loud screams. I heard her crying loudly and I watched as the belt hit her skin, making her jump. I saw Kalina trying to get Adia away and then her getting hit too! Now my little sisters were fighting to escape him! He was a monster, the monster our mom decided to marry. He was serious; he was mad, like who does this beating, a seven and 12-year-old? I trembled in the corner, yelling for him to stop. I lost it when he hit Kalina, making her fall hard on her head.

Kalina… Adia… Stop, I yelled through my tears.

I ran to them and saw Kalina lying there with a pool of blood gushing from her head. I was hurt; I felt stings on my back coming toward me like bullets from a machine gun! I saw him go for Adia. I got up and charged toward him, hitting him in the face, head, legs—anywhere to get him off my sisters!

What are you doing? our mom yelled as she ran to Kalina.

When he saw my mom he calmed down and went upstairs. My mom rounded us up in the car and drove us to the hospital.

Are you Ana? Kalina might make it, ma’am. The police are here to talk to your children, the doctor said.

I looked at my mom and saw tears in her eyes. Can they do it another time? Give them a few hours or something, please, she begged.

The officer looked at my mom, Adia and me. He saw the worry and fear in our eyes, and he sighed. Ok, but make sure tomorrow morning at 10… I need you guys at the station… I want to know who did this to this poor little girl. My mom looked at us before walking off with the doctor. That was the last time we ever saw her. Kalina had a rare heart condition and the incident made it even more fatal and she needed a new one to survive. The loving mother my mom was, she gave Kalina her heart; she left a note.

My precious babies, I love you guys! Kalina needs my heart more than I do! I love you guys so much. Your aunty Nae will take care of you guys in America and will make sure the Devil never sees the light again. I love you guys so much; take care of one another. I’m in your hearts. I love you guys so much; make me proud! Be successful in life! I love y’all!!

It hurts so much losing our mom so young but this whole thing brought us closer over the years.

End of flashback

KELLY’S POV

I WALKED INTO the police station and headed straight to my office. My name is Kelly Hoffman and I am an FBI agent. I work with local police on the cold case of Davion Black. I sat down at my desk and looked through the files and the witness testimonies. My door opened and my police partner Mario walked in. He smiled and handed me a cup of coffee and walked closer and pulled a chair next to me.

So you got anything on our guy? Mario asked.

Davion Marcus Black is the leader of the gang The Great Land Cobras. He was last reported in the Red town area but sightings of him have been in the Run town area we are doing a surveillance on him closer watch his every move, I responded.

And how would we do that—I mean get close to him? Mario asked.

Undercover things… a leader like that needs a woman by his side so we got to get him one and then we’re in, I responded.

That might work, Mario said.

Man, it’s a good idea and you know it, I smiled as I took sips of my coffee. He smiled.

Davion’s POV

I went to the safe house and saw all the men sitting there in grief because we lost Sergio, the one who kept us all together. I sat there on the couch and looked at Drell and Smokes.

"What news did Jay bring back? I asked as I lit up a blunt.

He knows it was one of the gangs but not sure which one. He’s trying to get tapes from Sergio’s car, Drell said.

I sighed. I want everybody to figure it out but until we find out what’s going on make sure you guys have on those glasses with the camera. It will connect you back to Jayna at the surveillance booth. Just be careful out there, I said,

Ok Fizz… Fizz, wait bro, Fizz, you straight? Smokes asked.

Yah, I’ll be cool. I’m going to head home. You guys should too. Come back tomorrow at 10 in the morning, I said.

I finished my blunt and I got in the car and looked at my phone and saw five missed calls from Kalina and a few texts from her: Babe, please call me when you home.

I sighed and pulled out of the driveway. Right now, I wasn’t in the mood to talk to Kalina. My mind was on Sergio. My bro was gone, dead. In motherfucking cold blood!! While he has a three-year-old daughter and a son on the way! And on the other side my girl trying to get closer to me, but this shit got my mind off her!!

I didn’t want to let my anger out in her again! I pulled into the driveway and grabbed my stuff and got out of the car. I locked it and walked up the steps to unlock my two-story mansion. I turned on the lights and put my stuff where it belonged, and I grabbed a few snacks before turning off the lights and heading toward my bedroom. I took off my clothes and went in the master bathroom to the walk-in shower. As the water touched my body, I just thought about Kalina. She knows what to say to make me happy! I miss her touches, her smile. I just need her right now! I finished my shower and dried myself and put on some boxers and black basketball shorts and a black beater. I grabbed my phone and called Kalina.

KALINA’S POV

KOJO CAME HOME and just went in his room. Adia was in her room studying and I was just lying in this bed missing Davion! I looked at my phone and eventually, his call came through. I smiled and answered, putting on my headphones. When I saw his face, I just smiled so hard, and so did he!

Phone convo

Me: Hey baby.

D: Hey beautiful, how are you doing?

Me: Babe, it wasn’t a good day after you dropped me off.

D: Was it your brother?

Me: Sort of, but also the fact I texted and called you two hours ago.

D: Sorry about that, baby girl. I was busy with some work things.

Me: Ok.

D: I missed you.

Me: (smiles) I miss you more.

D: I want to take you out on a date like you’ve never been on.

Me: What do you have in mind?

D: I don’t know; I haven’t planned it out.

Me: Oh wow (laughs).

D: You are such an admiring beauty. You know you’re going to be my wife one day; we’re going to have beautiful babies. You’re going to be Mrs. Davion Black.

Me: I hope so.

D: Oh, I know so. We can go to the jewelry store and you can pick out your ring.

Me: Ok Davion, ok.

D: What are you doing tomorrow?

Me: Work, what about you?

D: Got some meetings all day.

Me: We’re both busy tomorrows.

D: Yeah.

Me: What did you eat today?

D: Just some takeout; what about you?

Me: Some fruits and vegetables. I wasn’t that hungry.

D: True. Babe, when you going to cook for me?

Me: Soon. I can probably bring you some dinner tomorrow.

D: How about after work I pick you up and you come back to my place? I’ll buy the things you need, and you can spend the night.

Me: Ughh…

D: I can take you back home if you want to.

Me: (smiles) I’ll just see where the night takes us.

D: You want anything special?

Me: (smiles) You, Mr. Black.

D: I will give you what you want.

Me: Ok.

D: Look at you, happy as can be,

Me: Yes, I get to see where you live and be alone with you.

D: Well, we’ll have the best time of our lives.

Me: Babe, where you going to make me an extra bed?

D: Umm… yeah, sure.

Me: (sighs) Yah.

D: Babe, Ima call you tomorrow.

Me: Ok. Bye boo; good night.

D: Night beautiful.

Me: Bye boo.

D: Bye baby.

End of convo

I lay back in bed and put on some African movies. I wish I hadn’t said the bed things…

Davion’s POV

She wants separate beds!! Man, I wanted to feel on her while she sleeps. I want to wake up next to her! But I respect her wishes. I got a text from Jay.

I got news on Sergio’s case… staged to look like a robbery; video shows man. Not sure skin color but with a dark hoodie and a handgun. I read the text over and over. My little bro is really gone.

I texted back, Tomorrow meeting 10 am at safe house.

I sighed and walked in the bathroom and washed my face. After watching a few minutes of basketball, I went to sleep. The next morning, I got up and got in the shower and put on a tux and did my hair and grabbed my phone and texted Kalina.

Good morning beautiful, I can’t come get you for lunch. I have meetings today, but I’ll pick you up to take you and pick you up from work. I hit send and grabbed my keys and walked down the stairs and made some waffles and eggs. I ate washed my dish then got in the car and went to Kalina’s house. When I got there, she came out and her brother was behind her. He looked mad but she just ran into the car and gave me a long kiss on the lips. I smiled and looked at her in that black dress.

You look good, I smiled. Wait, good isn’t even the word; you look amazing… nah, you are a work of art, I said as I bit my lip.

Babe… she blushed.

I’m so lucky. I said.

You look wonderful in that tux— very daddish. She bit her bottom lip

I kissed her and man, this woman is a true beauty and just everything! She pulled away smiling. She put on her seatbelt and I saw her sister walk out and wave at me. I looked up and saw her brother staring hard at me!

KOJO’S POV

I DON’T WANT my sisters hurt; I’m the only guy who’s been there protecting them since birth and I’ve been fighting for them! These other niggas, I know what they want, and I don’t want my sisters hurt! Kalina has my mom’s soft, loving heart and I don’t want to have this dude hurting and killing her like my dad did our mom! This dude she calls her boyfriend—there’s something about him I