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“You don’t run shit.”
“Shit, neither does Shameek now.”
“You think killing him gives you control over what generation of this family built?”
“No, I think Rah dying trying to get away from it should’ve been enough for all of y’all to understand it wasn’t worth it.”
“You know damn well that’s not how the streets work.”
“All you want is more money, power, and respect. And now look where that got you. Both of your sons are dead.”
His eyes finally watered. The truth was ugly, and I hated that it had to come to this. Pops wiped his hand down his face.
“You said earlier that you were carrying the next King legacy. Why are you drinking?”
“Because I don’t know if I want to keep it or not.”
“Did Meek know?”
“Nope. That would’ve only clouded my decision. I almost didn’t do it as is.”
“Do you plan on going to the police?”
I had two bodies on me. If I went to the police, it was only going to land me in jail.
“I don’t know yet. Just know there are plenty of copies out there if you plan on doing anything to me.”
“Kyenna, I will never. Had I known Shameek killed Rah, I probably would have killed that nigga myself. I’m angry as fuck though.”
“I understand.”
“I might be angry at you for a long fucking time.”
“I can live with that too.”
“You really thought you were going to shoot your way out of this house?” He asked.
“If I had to.”
He laughed. “That’s why I always liked you.”
“You’re free to go. I’m going to go see my son and break the news to my wife and daughter. Just give me some time before you start making decisions on the distribution.”
“I’m not asking your permission, Pops. I’m not raising another King around this shit.”
He didn’t say anything else. He nodded and walked in to see Shameek’s body. As I gathered my things to leave, I could hear Pops crying over yet another son. When I walked out, Grif pulled me in for a hug. He had really become a brother to me. I knew he was willing to die for me just like he would for Rah.
EPILOGUE
Ayear later…
Royal Flush looked like Vegas. I had extended the hours thanks to the city. Business was doing so well that I rarely showed my face since everything happened. Since it was close to midnight, I was heading out after hosting a fundraiser. Now it was time for the gamblers to have their fun. I stood near the railing upstairs, looking over everything before I started walking down.
“Good night, Kyenna,” one of the dealers said.
“Good night. Y’all get home safe.”
As Grif pulled my car around, Jaharee had sent me a picture of my son stretched out across her chest, sleeping.
