Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Maze's Character Discription and Script

Maze – 30’s

Maze is Big Boss’s right hand man and muscle. He is always about his business and his serious attitude is recognized by everyone around.
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No one and I mean no one messes with my family, especially my boys. Tell me, how in the world can a father do what he has been doing to Kalen? There is no need to use your kid as a punching bag. With all of the bad things that I may have done, I draw the line when it comes to inflicting pain on your children. I despise trash like this Michael Brown.

(Pauses and fixes his clothes)

If it wasn’t for Kalen saying that he didn’t want this man dead, I would’ve put him six feet deep. But the beating that he took definitely sent the message, but if he even breathes in Kalen’s direction, all bets are off. I’m taking him out personally.

(Pauses)

Now Kalen will be in the hospital for the next few weeks but made me promise to let him do the last job with Kam and Psycho. Him and Jesse told me their plans to leave the city after that job and I completely understand and agree. Like I said before to them, they can leave when they want. I have no problem with that, especially after what I found out what Kalen has been going through. He deserves a fresh start. I may have a surprise for those two for working for me this summer. They’ve been good to me and have really filled a personal void in my life that I have had for a long time. I know they will be okay, and I’m happy that this hasn’t stopped my boys from finishing this big job. They’re great boys.

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Big Boss' Character Discription and Script

Big Boss – Mid 30’s

Big Boss is a smooth older man who is deep into running a successful and illegal business of gun dealing. He has a calm demeanor and can always be found with a cigar in his mouth.
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(Swirls his drink in his glass) I knew that these boys had it in them to run this side of my business. Yes this was a test for them tonight, but I hooked them up with my most reliable clients that I have. I know they enjoyed Blue in his nightclub. He does have some fine ladies in there.

(Pauses and takes a sip)

Now, these boys have experienced just the tip of my iceberg with this business. They see my house, my cars, my products and the now they have experienced the money. I’ve been in this business for almost twenty years. Hell, if this was a legit business, I’d be up for retirement soon and would be receiving my company Rolex watch.

(Lifts up his sleeve)

Oh yeah, already got that.

(Pauses as he takes another drink)

I know what most people think about this type of business, but honestly, I could care less about the people outside of my circle. I’ve done my dirt and made a luxurious life for myself the best way that I can. I mean, what do you expect from someone who came from nothing. I was introduced to this business after years of breaking my back for the man, making just a little over minimum wage, all the while, I watched his stank behind drive out of the parking lot in his Mercedes Benz, while I had to take the bus. I wanted my own Benz and I was willing to do what it took to get it.

Hanging on the block can get you connected with the right…or wrong people. I started off as a measly street hustler but caught the eye of a true businessman, yes a former gun runner and he took me under my wing, helped me build my own team and shortly after that, I built my own empire.

Hell, I not only run Springfield, but mostly half of the New England States, but just like any illegal business, there is a quick turnover of people and many people trying to become the next Big Boss.

(Shakes his head)

But we all know that there is only one Big Boss and that’s me.

(Sips again)

I built my team strategically with loyal, smart men. I never deal with over hungry, crazy people, with potential death wishes. That’s how your entire operation gets taken down. You never want it to implode on you.

For every person that I work with, I take care of. I never allow anyone to break up my family, and for my two new boys, they will be just fine under my wing. I will take care of them, like they are my own, and as far as I am concerned, this is a deep as I want them to get involved in this business, but time will tell as to how things will work out.

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Michael Brown's Character Discription and Script

Michael Brown – Alcoholic Abusive Father early 40’s

Michael Brown in his mid thirties and is usually found with a bottle of liquor in his hand. He has a very angry attitude when he is drunk and takes out his anger and frustration on Kalen. He hates the life that he has lived and everyone in it.
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(Drunken State)

I can’t wait to get my hands on that boy. He makes me so damn sick. He disgusts me, he makes my stomach turn. I don’t know how in the world I could produce such a worthless kid. I wish…I wish that I could send him with his mother, straight to hell. I wish that…I wish…I wish that I had a better life. If I didn’t have that boy in my life, maybe I could keep a job. Yeah, it’s his fault that I can’t find a good job. That boy is holding me back just like his mother did when she was alive. That whore was just as worthless. I guess that part of that seed lives on within him. I hate my life and everything in it. I can’t stand the sight of that boy. When I look at him, I see…I see me…my ex-wife, and when I look into his eyes, I can see her looking down on me. If only I could teach that boy how to be a man then those eyes won’t haunt me. I’ll do whatever I have to, to stop those eyes from looking at me. One way or another, Kalen will be taught to respect me and become a man.

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Sharee's Character Discription and Script

Sharee Robinson – 18yrs. Old

Is a supporting character and the other best friend that Kalen has grown up with. She cares about Kalen more than he would ever. She wants to be more than friends.
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(Speaking in a scared tone)

I can’t believe this is happening. This is not how things are supposed to be. We were supposed to have a happy life together…now….I…I…just don’t know how this is going to end. I am so afraid right now. Mr. Brown has that gun and Kalen…poor Kalen. Lord, please save him.

(Police sirens flood the theater. Jesse lowers his head. Sharee stands)

The police are here! They made it. There’s still time! There’s still time to stop this…

(Before Sharee could finish, the light go out and the sound of a gunshot rings through the crowd)

No, please Lord, no! Don’t take Kalen from me. Please don’t take him away.

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Jesse's Character Discription and Script

Jesse Varma – 18 yrs. Old

Jesse is the supporting character who has a comedic side to him. He has always been by Kalen’s side since they were both 8 years old. He is a true best friend and will always look out for the best interest of Kalen.
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OOOH BUDDY! I swore that I was going to wet my pants in Blues office. Every time he moved, I thought that he was going to try and take us out. Talk about a stressful situation. I bet I grew a few gray hairs in the course of twenty minutes.
Does anyone have a mirror so that I can check?
(Pauses and paces the stage)
How in the world did we just pick up $10,000.00 without any issues? I mean, Big Boss must really have this city on lock down with his business, and for us to be a part of this is scary, but also a rush.
(Pauses)
Man, Blue is one smooth country brother, too. I could tell that this man’s swagger was strong and had plenty of ladies to showcase it with. I hope that I can get the ladies like that one day. Playa’ playa’ on the rise ya’ll.
(Chuckles)
On a serious note though, Kalen and I finished up that job with Blue and hit the rest of our pickups. I can honestly say that by the time we got to our last spot, we had our whole introduction and plan put together smoothly. We counted every dollar and collected every scent that we were supposed to pick up for Big Boss. We didn’t let any one of his clients skim him over. I guess you can say that this side of the gun business isn’t that dangerous. Even though I have my hesitations, I feel a little bit better that things went smoothly on the first night.

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown - Stage Play - Kalen's Character Discription and Script

Kalen Brown – 18 yrs. Old
Kalen Brown is the lead character. He has an unstable mindset as he is in search of a male role-model. He has been physically and mentally abused by his alcoholic father, Michael Brown. Confused about his future as he deals with his abusive father. He finds himself trying his best to impress Big Boss (A major Gun Dealer) as he sees him as a possible father figure.
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Well, I guess I made it, mom. It’s been a tough road, but I made to graduation.
(Leans forward and picks up her picture. Strokes it)
I miss you so much. I wish that you could see me walk across the stage today. It’s not like my father will be there. He’ll probably be off, making out to a liquor bottle as usual.
(Shakes his head)
Mom, I often wonder how my life would be if you were still here. I know that I wouldn’t have been beaten like this for the past ten years. My life would probably have a purpose instead so much uncertainty. I should have the next four years of my life set, but Michael put a hold to that. He is so evil, and sometimes I swear that he’d rather see me dead than in this house.
(Hugs his mother’s picture)
I want out of this hell hole so badly, mom. I just don’t know how to get out of it. I don’t have a job, I don’t have that many options in front of me, but I know one thing, after this summer, I’m leaving to go somewhere other than this. I’ve taken too much of his anger and my mind isn’t strong enough to continue to face it. (Pulls the picture back) What’s that you say? Oh, Jesse and Sharee? They are the only good things about growing up over here. If it wasn’t for my two best friends, I don’t know what I would have done with my life. Jesse and Sharee are very good to me. They have been on my side all of these years and have protected me as much as they can from that devil, but you know as well as I do, Michael is my father and I did have to face him from time to time. I just wish that he was like a normal father. Someone that I could look up to, someone I would want to grow up to be like, not someone who strikes fear into the depths of my soul or someone that I hate with a passion.
(Sighs)
I know that hate is a strong word, but how can you love someone who takes out all of his frustration on you whenever he can? It’s just not fair and now I’m graduating high school and feel all alone. You were the only one who really loved me and I wish that you could be here with me, just one last time.
(Places the picture back on the table as a horn beeps)
Well, I guess this is it, momma. I’m off to get my diploma. I hope that you have a good seat up there in heaven.
(Blows a kiss to the ceiling)
I love you, so much, momma. I miss you.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

I am that Red Dress

"I Am That Red Dress"

Thank you for slipping me on today
 My duty for the day, is to make every head turn your way.
You will not have a doubt or any type of worry
Because of what I do for you, is to keep your mind in glory.
I'll have you looking so damn good and at your best
Yes it's me, I am that Red Dress

I am the lucky one that gets to hug those hips
I am that lucky one who gets to kiss those lips.
Not the ones upon your face 
The ones that not many get to see, hidden in heavens special place.
I am the one who gets to lick your naval
As you move, my silky feeling is willing and able.
Oh yes,  I have you looking so damn good and at your best
It is me, I am that Red Dress.

Yes, I am the one who has made you feel so good
Bringing erotic thoughts to many from the business world, right down to the hood.
I tease the eyes of all women and men
As I exentuate the sexy curves that I hide within.
Heads turn as I tease those eyes as you decide to sit
You give me a moment of pleasure as my crease gets stuck upon that...

You slowly release me and I once again fall to your side
I wink with the light as I look at the others with pride.
Damn they so dearly want to be me
But no one is lucky enough to feel what I see.
I swear that I have you looking so damn good and at your best
Oh Yes, it is me, 
I am that Red Dress.

I am lucky to be able to hold you all day, to squeeze you tight and make love to you in my own special way.

On the bus, at your desk, on the street and in the shop
My shine gives others a glimpse of what they want, easily making them hop.
I am the best at what I do
I'm killing them softly, doing it all for you.
Others wish that they were as lucky as me
To secretly explore every inch of your body.
You know that I have you looking good and at your best
Yes it's me, I am that Red Dress

I kiss, I hug, I flow with ease
Just to see you smile without you ever having to say please.
To feel you breathe like the wind would blow through a sail
I know that I am the best at making you exhale.
I have been lucky to make love you from 7 to 11
I tend to wonder who brought WHO first to heaven.
But at the end if the day,  my job is done
As you return home from our time out in the sun.
I will be put away for my time of rest
But I was so damn good at making you feel at your best.
You won't ever forget me but never-the-less
Always know that whenever you want it, call upon this Red Dress.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

LIRM Interview with Darian Murray



KESHAWN DODDS ~ ARTISTIC TRENDSETTER

MARCH 2011 INTERVIEW

Imagine a young elementary pupil sitting at his desk gazing out the window thinking of what he could be. The dreams are endless and provide him with a place to be all he can be. This blogger can certainly relate to the daydreaming scenario being a daily task.

We are living in a time where many individual have dreams that simply need an outlet to be seen and heard. Beyond the profanity laced lyrics of the latest rap hit and past the ever present bullying of our children, their is a need in our community to empower our youth to dream.

Thankfully there is a young gentleman who is embracing the call and not running from the challenge of being a mentor to our future leaders. Keshawn Dodds is a force to be reckoned with as he fearfully empowers those around him one publication at a time.

We recently had the opportunity of interviewing this amazingly talented young man and we must admit, we are impressed. Check out the interview and see for yourself how dedicated this young man is.

Keshawn, you are a successful young man who seems poised to make major moves. Share with our readers where you hail from and what is your background.
I’m from Springfield, Massachusetts, the home of basketball. I was born and raised in Springfield and still live here with my beautiful wife, Tami and our six year old daughter, Sydney. Also, we have the best guard dog, our Shi Tzu, Barkley.

I grew up in the center of the city, with my mother who had to raise me by herself when my father passed away at the age of seven. I have three older brothers who have helped guide me through life and have helped me find direction. Even though I grew up in a single family home, because of the neighborhood that I lived in, I never really felt at a loss. That motto of “It takes a village to raise a child,” truly exemplified the Dunmoreland Street families.

Perusing your site, one can tell that you have many irons in the fire. Share with us some of the things that you are involved in?
I tend to fill my plate with many things but I believe that I can do it all. Just to name a few, I am currently the Director of Greek Life at American International College. Working in Higher Education is a dream come true and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I am also trying to become a well established author and this is where my true passion is. I write to inspire our youth to regain their love for education. I have a book series that is in the science fiction/fantasy genre, the Menzuo ~ Solar Warrior’s series.

I created this superhero a while back due to the loss of my best friend, Marcus McDowell in 1996. We lost him to prostate cancer at the age of eighteen. While in the hospital, we both created characters for our mini comic book. Unfortunately, Marcus never got to see a finished product as he passed away eleven months after his diagnosis, but as he left this world, he left me with the greatest gift, a starting point for a story. I ended up expanding the comic into a full-fledged novel and series. I now use it to inspire our youth to enjoy the love of reading.

I am also a motivational speaker. I have traveled throughout Massachusetts and now I’m on the verge of expanding my reach into Connecticut. My goal as a motivational speaker is to help build the confidence of the people that I speak to so that they can reach their goals and find success in their lives. I believe that I can create superheroes in this world with my words. We need people to believe in their abilities to reach greatness. There is so much more that I am doing, volunteer wise and educationally but if I go into that, I’d be writing another book!

Please give our readers more insight into your comic book premise and plot?
As people read my first book, they quickly understand that the superhero that I created is more than just some kid trying to save planet earth. Here is the true breakdown of my first book, Menzuo in the Calling of the Sun Prince. Jammal Hall a.k.a. Menzuo, is the lead character. That lead character is me, Keshawn Dodds.

Solar, Menzuo’s protector lives within the crystal that is on his necklace. Solar will be with Menzuo throughout the rest of his life and will help him to become a great warrior. Solar’s character is my best friend, Marcus McDowell. In this book, Menzuo and Solar must save planet Earth from the evil Pirate Warrior, known as Morbid. Of course you know what Morbid means, it means Death. Morbid represents the cancer that Marcus had while he was in his last eleven months of his life. I want my readers to understand that Marcus may have lost his battle to cancer but in my book, we both defeat Morbid, the cancer, together.

Amazing!! I notice that you have a unique gift of writing and drawing. When did you realize that you had a special gift?
Thanks for the credit with the drawing but I must concede that to my friend, Carl Harrison. He is the master behind the art of my Menzuo ~ Solar Warrior’s series. Carl is a student at the Art Institute of Boston and has taken Marcus’ artwork to new heights. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to work with him.

As for me, my gift is in writing the stories. I realized that I had this gift at a very young age. I was a closet comic book geek and loved creating my own stories. The first story that I wrote was at the age of seven. It was about all of the kids in my neighborhood going on daily adventures. I still remember the stories and maybe one day, I’ll turn that into a children’s book.

I am currently looking to be at the Harlem Book Fair of July 23, 2011. It is my goal to have a booth out there and I am in the process of working it out as we speak. Keep your fingers crossed. I hope that New York is ready for this bright smile.

To this day, when I write a story, it is as if I have a running movie in my head. The words turn into action and it allows me to create these very interesting books. People wonder if I ever have writer’s block and I say no because my imagination is so vivid, it will not allow any blockage. It’s an open faucet.

Being a blogger who has faced those who deem me too young to be successful. Share with our readers how you handle those who may doubt your brand.
I deal with those people the best way that I know how, I show them the true me. Success doesn’t have an age criteria. It is up to the individual to be ready and able to accept the responsibilities of what success brings. My brand as an author/motivational speaker is only validated by my presence and how I present myself and my product on a daily basis. The people who doubt my brand (and there are many) are always blown away when I get the opportunity to shine. They can’t believe how well prepared and focused that I am.

I love the doubters. As an athlete, I loved the underdog because when that underdog rose to the front and was now in first place, the shock and awe on people’s faces was priceless. I look at my brand in that underdog model. People are hesitant to give me a chance but when they open that door, I leave them saying that they should have met me earlier. I live to prove people wrong. I believe that’s the competitive spirit within me.

There are many young African American entrepreneurs who are striving to make a difference. What are five tips that you have found to be useful.
I have many tips that have helped me throughout my continued growth so I will try to do my best to break it down to my top five:

1. Always be prepared. You never know when an opportunity to represent yourself or your business will come. (I keep books in my trunk at ALL TIMES).

2. Stay humble. No one likes an over confident, or ‘hard to work with’ type of person. Doors will close quicker than they are open.

3. Believe in yourself. Don’t allow others to put barriers around you. If you believe in yourself, then nothing will stop your growth.

4. Keep your eyes and ears open. You never know what knowledge you will receive from others who may be on the same path that you are on. They may be able to help you miss those stumbling blocks and they can also help you reach a goal quicker because they already dealt with that rough road ahead.

5. Know your limits. Do not spread yourself too thin. It is very easy to lose focus on your goals if you are not organized. Make sure that all of your goals are in line with each other. It makes your journey much smoother.

Are you giving back to the community? If so, share with our readers how you give back?
This is the number one reason why I write. I give back to my community more than people realize. I volunteer time at after-school programs, I read to students at schools, I give reluctant readers copies of my books for free just to challenge them to not like it (I always win, they love it).
I mentor several youth on a one-on-one basis, and there is so much, more. I love doing these things because it helps to build the minds of our youth. I also love doing it because it’s who I am. I do not need the accolades, the awards for doing something that is so natural for me. Also, if you are wondering where my time with my family is, my wife and daughter are right alongside me, doing the same thing. My wife is highly involved in the education of the youth in our community and our daughter is helping as well. From birth, she knows the importance of giving back and that will help her to become a well rounded adult.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I see myself holding the first ever book signing on the moon! Just kidding but that’s where my mind is. I think outside of the box. I actually see myself speaking around the country, continuing to build our youth’s respect for education through my books. My goal is to gain the needed recognition to continue to inspire others. I want people to understand that I do what I do, not to become super famous or rich. I do this because there is a need for true educational leadership. If and when I do make those big dollars, it will go right back into our communities with programs to help strengthen our educational systems. I am a true believer that education is the key to a successful life, and if I can have a positive impact in a person’s educational development, then my life is worthwhile.

Having a mentor/role model is always amazing. Do you have any and if so share with us who they are and how they influence you.
Yes I do, I have several but I will name just two. From the age of eight, my godfather, Milton Berry, has helped to keep me on the right path. He has helped me to see my full potential in sports, school and in life. He was the first person to expose me to my speaking ability, while as a member of the Keystone Club, at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club, Family Center. Milton ‘Diddy Bop’ Berry was great at understanding the minds of the kids that he worked with. I think that because of him, I work hard to change our youth’s lives because he did that for me.

As an author, I believe that you need to have a literary mentor and I am blessed to have the great, Joe Young as a mentor. Joe Young owns Young’s Studios in Hartford, Connecticut, and is also an avid artist and now best selling fiction writer. His book, ‘Diamond Rough,’ hit the Amazon.com bestsellers list last year. He is also currently working on turning that book into the movie and he’s lucky to have Michael Jai White, starring as the leading role. Joe and I talk often and he has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the steps that I need to take as I move forward with my writing career.

A firm foundation is key in the area of business. Share with our readers how you handle stressful situations and circumstances.
I take deep breaths!!! Honestly, back in 2005, I was honored to work as a Mayoral Aide under our past Mayor of the city of Springfield, Charles V. Ryan. During this time, I got the opportunity to work under some of the most stressful situations that any person could ever work under. Our city was going through a state takeover, corruption flooded the city, teachers, police and firefighters didn’t have contracts and on top of that, our communities were neglected.
As a Mayoral Aide, you represent the Mayor as if you were the Mayor himself so you are on the front lines, dealing with these issues on a daily basis. Having to deal with this type of stress taught me that there is a solution to every problem and every problem cannot be fixed over night.
As I have moved into the area of higher education and life as an author/motivational speaker, I have learned to accept who I am as a person and I truly can see my way through any stressful situation that I may be confronted with. I tend to go back in my mind to my time in that Mayor’s Office just to remind myself that no obstacle that I will face now will EVER be as stressful as my time in there. That usually lightens the load for me. Being able to compare the stress of today with the life challenges that I have had tends to keep my blood pressure low.
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It is always refreshing to see a young education gentleman determined to make a difference in the literary world. There are so many who have endless amounts of dreams but no outlet to express them. Keshawn has managed to express him talents in a artistic manner that was simply birthed from his grieving process.
We are sure that his beloved friend Marcus is smiling down with complete joy and here at LIRM we hail him a up and coming artistic trendsetter.


Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown

As Kalen and Jesse sat in the back seat of the Beamer, Kam sat in the passenger seat, playing with the radio as Psycho continued to drive.

“Now this is my jam,” Kam shouted as a song from Kanye came on the air. “What you boys know about this?”

Kalen and Jesse nodded their heads, indicating that they liked the song, but kept silent. Fear was building in the both of them as they were about to face the unknown. It was as if they could hear their hearts beating over the music.

Jesse looked Kalen in the eyes, trying his best to calm his own nerves. He hoped that Kalen wasn’t feeling the same way, but could tell that the decision to get in the back of the Beamer, to do this job, wasn’t the smartest decision that they had ever made.

As the song ended, Kam turned the radio off and faced Kalen and Jesse. “Okay fellas, here is how it’s going to go down tonight. We are going to meet with some very high powered men tonight. They are from Hartford, Connecticut and want to expand Big Boss’s operation down there. We will be negotiating prices and they will be observing the product. All of the merchandise is in the trunk. I need you boys to be smart and keep an eye out for any nonsense.”

“So, you want us to be spotters?” Kalen asked.

A smirk fell upon Kam’s face. “Spotters? You’ve been watching too much TV,” he said with a chuckle, “But, yeah. I need you boys to keep a look out for anything funny out there. We can’t afford to be exposed to any nonsense.”

“So, this can potentially get dangerous?” Jesse questioned.

“Oh, no doubt,” Kam answered as he looked over to Psycho, then back to them. “But my boy, Psycho, is no joke. I doubt if they really want to test him. He’s too legit with his piece. This should be a smooth meeting.”

“Should be, huh?” Jesse said in a curious tone. He looked over to Kalen. “Just great.”

Kalen took a deep breath and looked out of the window. He noticed that they were still in Springfield, Massachusetts, but somewhere downtown, near the waterfront, close to the Basketball Hall of Fame. He could see a couple of cars in the distance, sitting in a park, just past the bridge to the highway that connected Springfield to Hartford. Kalen could feel that the moment had come for them to be on point. He didn’t want to mess up and he knew that this wasn’t a test like Big Boss gave them on their first night out.

As the car pulled into the dimly lit park, Pyscho pulled the car in front of the two Mercedes Benz’s. “Okay, fellas,” Kam said as Psycho turned the car off. “This is it. Are you ready?”

Kalen and Jesse both did their best to control their breathing. “Yeah, we’re ready,” Kalen responded with confidence.”

Kam nodded. “Remember, keep your eyes open. We cannot fall asleep on the job.”

“We got it,” Kalen responded.

Kam turned around and did a quick head count of every man who was standing outside of their cars, in front of the lights. Four men in cream colored suits stood, ready for their meeting. “Let’s go,” Kam said as he opened the door.

Psycho opened his door as well and quickly exited the car.

Jesse shook his head, letting Kalen know that this was way too much for him to handle.

“I know,” Kalen said, sensing what Jesse was thinking. “Let’s go and get this over with.”

They both exited the car and stood behind Kam and Psycho.

As the four men walked over to them, Kam whispered to Kalen and Jesse. “I need you boys to keep an eye out on the bushes and the bridge in the distance. If you see anything move, you got to speak. Pyscho and I will make the decision on what to do. Understand?”

Kalen and Jesse worked up enough strength to whisper back clearly. “Uh huh.”

“Hello, gentlemen,” one of the men said with a Russian accent. “Kam, it nice to see you again, and pleasure finalizing business with you tonight.”

“What’s up, Sergey,” Kam responded, “It’s always a pleasure working with a decent, honest man like you.”

Kalen could hear the sarcasm in Kam’s voice. He could tell that they both were positioning themselves to finalize the deal.

As the two continued to discuss their past week of events, Kalen and Jesse did what they were told and scoped the area out. They looked at every bush and every inch of the bridge that was in the distance. Their eyes combed the Connecticut River for any boats that might be riding by. As of that moment, everything was cool, but they were still very uneasy.

“So, let’s cut the bull crap, Sergey, and get to business.”

“Da (Yes), Kam,” Sergey responded. “Let’s get to business. Let us see the product.”

“Now, Sergey, are you crazy?” Kam answered. “I need to see the money first, baby. Show me the monay!”

Sergey stroked his chin. “What a smart man you are, Kam. Even though we’ve been working on this deal for over two years, you are still on your toes. That’s why I like you,” he said then turned to his men. “Kam does not slip up. No mistakes, you see. I love it.”

Kam’s smile quickly left his face as he could tell that Sergey was stalling. He cracked his neck. As he did, Psycho put his left hand on his hip. Kalen and Jesse both noticed this and started to breathe a little faster as they expected things to really heat up.

The fear was building as Sergey turned to face Kam again. He noticed Psycho in position and was easily ready to take out his three henchmen. “I love it. You boys are great and even brought back-up. Puny back-up, but just enough to keep me at bay,” Sergey said as he looked at Kalen and Jesse. Sergey quickly snapped his fingers and the door to one of the Mercedes opened up.

A beautiful Asian woman stepped out of the car and walked over with two black briefcases. Jesse noticed the lady and gasped at her beauty.

Kalen hissed at him, quickly grabbing his attention. As Jesse looked at him, he pointed to his eyes, indicating that it was more important for them to be on the lookout, than to be looking out for that lady. Jesse nodded and refocused on the scenery around them.

“Nice,” Kam said as the lady walked forward.

“You like the briefcases, Kam?” Sergey asked.

“Not just the briefcases, but what’s bringing them to me,” Kam said quickly.

Sergey turned as his lady walked passed him, and over to the hood of Kam’s car. “She is beautiful, Kam. You have great taste, but that is mine; you can keep the packages.”

The lady put the briefcases on the hood of the car without a word. She walked back over to the Mercedes and got back in. “I sure will keep these packages, but it would have been a great gesture to leave her as well.”

Sergey chuckled as he spoke. “Maybe when I’m done, you might get a crack at it.”

“Maybe,” Kam responded.

“So, where is my product? I’d like to get this party started.” Sergey said as the exchange was continuing on.

As Kam walked to the back of the car with Sergey, Kalen noticed something moving behind a bush near the water. At first, he thought that it was the light from the moon, shining off of the water and hitting the bush, but a green light started to flash. He snapped his fingers, once to grab Jesse’s attention.

Jesse’s head quickly turned around. Kalen pointed to the bush. As he did, the green light flickered again.

“I see it,” Jesse whispered.

“What should we do?” Kalen asked.

“We need to let Psycho know. Kam said that if we saw anything, we have to let them know,” Jesse responded.

“Okay, no doubt,” Kalen quickly walked over to Psycho and whispered in his ear. “I see something.”

Without hesitation and for the first time, Psycho spoke. “Yo’ Kam, it’s getting cold.”

Before Kam was about to open the trunk, he stopped and looked Sergey in the eyes. “Are you serious, Sergey?”

Sergey’s eyes quickly widened. “What are you talking about, Kam?”

“You’re trying to set us up,” Kam responded.

“Me? I have no idea what you’re talking about, honestly,” Sergey responded as if he didn’t know what was going on.

“Who saw something, Psycho?” Kam asked.

“Our boys, they spotted something in the bushes,” Psycho responded.

Kam nodded as he looked at Kalen and Jesse. “Got it!” he shouted then quickly pulled out his gun. Kam did not hesitate as he placed the barrel of the gun on Sergey’s temple.

At that same moment, Psycho pulled out two guns and pointed them at the henchmen that stood on the left and right of Sergey.

Psycho spoke to the one in the middle. “If you think about moving, you all will be laying in the river. Don’t even think about breathing.”

Kalen and Jesse backed up towards the back door of the Beamer. “What the hell, man!” Jesse shouted.

“Chill, youngin’, we got this,” Kam said in a calm tone. “Now, what did you see?”

“A…a…green light flickering in the bushes by the water,” Kalen said with a stutter. “It was probably nothing. I…”

Kam looked at Sergey as he pressed the gun harder onto his temple, not letting Kalen finish what he was about to say. “Call them out, right now!”

“Okay, okay, but this was not my idea. I had nothing to do with this, Kam,” Sergey said with his hands over his head. “It was my boss’ idea.”

“I don’t care whose idea it was,” Kam said quickly. “You have two options right now. You can find your final resting place in that river, or call them out.”

“You got it, Kam,” Sergey said loudly. “C’mon out! It’s over! You have been spotted.”

As Sergey shouted, two more men crawled out from the bushes with sniper rifles. The green light that was spotted, was the light of the moon hitting the lens of the scope. “So, you were going to take us all out?”

“Kam…it…it was…just business, my man,” Sergey said as he feared for his life.

“Drop the guns, and walk behind your boys so that I can have you in my line of sight,” Psycho shouted. The men dropped their guns and followed his direction. “Good. Now boys, go get the guns and put them in the car. Get in and sit there while we handle this mess out here.”

Kalen and Jesse quickly picked up the two rifles and got back into the car and sat down. “Oh, man! They’re going to kill them, Kalen!” Jesse said in complete fear. “What the hell are we doing?”

“Bro’, I’m sorry. Seriously, I’m really, really sorry for getting us in this mess,” Kalen said as he shook in the back seat.

“Oh, man, this is just nuts,” Jesse said back to him.

They both sat in the car and listened to Kam continue to threaten Sergey, forcing more and more information out of him as he got closer to pulling the trigger. Kalen closed his eyes and prayed that Kam and Psycho wouldn’t take it that far. He wanted this mess to end and didn’t want to be a part of any murder.

Kalen slowly opened his eyes and noticed Jesse, hunched over, covering his ears in case he was to hear gun shots. Kalen continued to listen to Kam shout at Sergey and hoped for the best.

After a few minutes, Kalen and Jesse heard Kam shout out. “Now, get the hell out of here. Tell your Boss that all deals are off and that he better watch his back. Something good will be coming down the pipeline for him real soon.”

“As you wish, Kam. Thank you for sparing me and my boys. I’m done with this business. Do svidaniya (Goodbye),” Sergey said then slowly walked back to the Mercedes Benz with his henchmen. They got in and quickly pulled off.

After a few minutes, Kam and Psycho got back into the car, with the two briefcases, laughing about how everything went down. “Whoa! Now that was a rush!” Kam said as he let out a deep breath.

Psycho turned around to face Kalen and Jesse. He finally removed his sunglasses. “Great job, ma’ boys! Ja pulled a great job for us. Now weh no you are fo’ real.”

Kalen nodded. “You let them go?”

“Of course,” Kam responded. “Sergey is not the threat. Plus, he’s soft. He’s a ‘yes’ man.”

“So, what’s going to happen from here on out,” Jesse asked.

“Well, Sergey will tell his Boss what happened and how he lost the money. What happens to him from that point is his business, but they just lost a lot of money tonight,” Kam said with a chuckle.

“I’m happy that you got a kick out of that,” Jesse said as he was still shaking.

“Of course I did,” Kam responded. “So, you boys want to go out for a drink with us, to celebrate?”

“Ya’ mon, c’mon out with us, ya’ hear. It will be fun to chill with you. You’ve earned me respect,” Psycho said with a half smile.

“I…I think we’re good,” Kalen said as his hands were still shaking.

“Can you just drop us off at my house?” Jesse added.

Kam nodded as he could tell that the night’s event was a bit much for the boys. “Okay, boys, I’ll bring you home. Thanks for the eyes though. You saved me and Psycho, and that goes a long way in my book.”

“Thanks,” Jesse responded still in shock on how things went down.

Psycho turned the car on and drove off, heading to Jesse’s house to drop the boys off for the night.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Chapter 3 ~ Who's On My Side? The Story of Kalen Brown

In one day, Kalen’s life had changed forever. Throughout that summer, Kalen was introduced to a horrible lifestyle of abuse that he never even imagined could exist. He never thought that a parent would do to their child, what his father had done to him.

As the school year was about to start, the abuse didn’t. Instead of hitting Kalen in the face, he targeted parts of his body that wouldn’t reveal the bruises.

Along with the beatings, Michael continually threatened his son, telling Kalen that if he ever told anyone about what happened in his house, he would make sure that he’d be buried next to his mother. So Kalen kept quiet and did his best to hide every bit of what was happening to him from the outside world. The only people who were really aware of what was going on were Jesse and Sharee. Those two even kept the drama from their parents. They didn’t to make thing worst for their friend.

Kalen quickly learned to avoid his father and caught far fewer beatings as the year went on. Sometimes, he wouldn’t see his father for weeks, but when Michel came searching for his son, all hell would break loose.
As Kalen grew older, Jesse and Sharee tried to help as much as possible. They called the cops anytime they thought Kalen needed help. Unfortunately, the police rarely showed, and if they did, they seemed less than interested in the situation.

Kalen grew to hate the cops with a passion for not saving him. As much as Kalen hated those weak police officers, he didn’t grow to hate his father. He still loved him and hoped that the person, who he first met when he came to Springfield, would come back. Kalen sort of grew accustomed to the abusive lifestyle; in a strange way, it became normal.

The more that he thought about it, Kalen felt sorry for his father who unable to keep a job. When Michael did, the beatings would stop. So, that was the pattern, with a job, the beatings would stop. He’d hug and love his son, like nothing had ever happened. As soon as Michael lost his job, they started back up again. Kalen’s psyche was all jacked up.
By the time Kalen hit eighteen, his father never kept track as to where he was. The abuse wasn’t as frequent but it was still present. Kalen spent most nights at Jesse’s house when he saw his father at his tipping point with his alcohol addiction.

Jesse’s mother knew of the situation and didn’t mind letting Kalen find refuge at her house. Plus, she still worked nights and wasn’t home when Kalen was over. At times Jesse’s mother tried to step in between Kalen and Mr. Brown, but that didn’t work to well. In that neighborhood, people really didn’t like getting into other people’s business.
As graduation from high school rolled around, Kalen didn’t even bother to ask his dad to come. Even if Kalen did ask him, he wouldn’t show. Michael would rather find a seat in the nearest bar and talk with other drunks than pay any attention to his own son.

Kalen sat in the high schools, football stadium right in next to Jesse as he looked up on the stage. Sharee sat next to the Mayor of the city. She was the Valedictorian of their senior class. Kalen and Jesse kept messing with her from the crowd, making her laugh. They were proud of their friend as she sat confidently at the head of the class.

“I can’t believe that it’s over,” Jesse said as the Mayor spoke.

“I know. So what are you going to do?” Kalen asked.

Jesse shrugged his shoulders. “I’m not sure right now. I may go to community college or to the military. What about you? I know you’re ready to leave that house.”

Kalen sighed as he nodded. “Yeah, I am, but I have no clue as to what my next move is. I don’t have any money to move out. I got into a few colleges but can’t go because my father wouldn’t fill out my financial aid papers,” Kalen sat back. “I’m going to take this summer and figure it out. I hate the military and don’t want any other man yelling in my face. I think I would snap if that happened.”

As the mayor finished, Jesse put his hand on Kalen’s shoulder. “Well, whatever you decide to do, we’ll do it together. You’re my dawg, and we stick together.”

Kalen smiled then shook Jesse’s hand. “No doubt, partner.”

The principal of the school spoke from the stage. “To the class of 2008, I am proud to award you with your diplomas, and I am proud to be the first to recognize you as graduates of Springfield Central High School. Please stand to accept your diplomas.”

The crowd erupted with cheers. One by one, each student was called up to receive their diploma. As every person walked across that stage, Kalen looked around and noticed all of the family members who had come to represent their graduates. He wished that he had a crowd like that, but he had borrowed family members from Jesse and Sharee’s parents.

“Kalen Randy Brown,” the principal shouted. Kalen listened to the many people shouting his name and cheering for him, but he felt empty. The one person who he wanted to hear was nowhere to be found. He walked across the stage with a fake smile on his face and received his diploma. “Congratulations, son, stay positive.”

“Thank you, Dr. Budd-Jackson.” Kalen said as he shook her hand. He walked off of the stage and back to his seat. He sighed heavily and looked up into the sky. “I did it, mom. I did it.”

After the graduation, Jesse and Kalen met up with Sharee. “Hey, guys, we did it. High school’s over. Now we enter the real world.”

“Don’t remind me,” Jesse said jokingly.

“Hey guys, my family is taking me out to dinner. I’ll catch up with you all tomorrow, okay? I’m leaving on a week-long cruise in two days. My family is treating me.”

“Ooh, a cruise. Miss Valedictorian is being treated like royalty already,” Kalen joked.

“Keep laughing, but I’ll be basking in the sun, drinking nonalcoholic daiquiris for two weeks, while you both are stuck here in Springfield.”

“Like I said before, don’t remind me,” Jesse joked again.

“No sir, Sharee, we’re very proud of you. You represented up there today,” Kalen said with a smile. “At least one of us has a real plan.”

They all stood quiet for a second. Sharee couldn’t take the silence and broke it quickly. “Hey, well, at least we’ll always be friends. No matter how far away I am, I’ll always love you guys.”

“Oh, here she goes, getting all mushy again,” Jesse said. “Just kidding, we love you, too.”

They all hugged. “Okay, guys, I’ll say bye tomorrow. Don’t do anything crazy today, okay?” she said as she walked away.

“Of course we will,” Kalen said with a smile. “We wouldn’t be the ‘Bad Boys,’ if we played it safe.”

Sharee shook her head as she met up with her parents. She waved goodbye and disappeared into the crowd.

“So, what’s up for the rest of the day?”

“We can hang with the guys on the block. We’ve got all summer to figure out what we’re going to do.”

Jesse nodded. “Alright, let’s get out of these damn robes and into some clean clothes. We have to look good for the ladies.”

“Yeah, it’s summer time and you know they are out, wearing close to nothing.”

“Mmm! You’re right about that,” Jesse said, licking his lips. They both headed out to the house to change.

As Jesse and Kalen made it to the block, all of the hustlers and ladies were already out there. The bottom of Dunmoreland Street was packed. It was like they were having a block party, music blasting, people drinking and trying to kick their game to the ladies who passed by. It was ghetto fabulous and the boys ate it up.

The hustlers were the coolest dudes around. Always flashing their money and chasing the finest girls. Dudes were in the corner shooting dice and shuffling their money like it was nobody’s business.

Everyone had fast money ideals and wanted to be ‘the’ big man, but in actuality, they were all just pieces to the ghetto puzzle.

“Hey, shawty, let me holler at you for a minute,” a hustler, named Bones shouted out to a girl who passed him. Bones was a skinny, dark skinned brother who seemed to always wear shades that were three times bigger than his face. His clothes were just as big as his pants hung off of his butt, showing his boxers. He continued to shout at the passing woman. “Make ya’ way over to a real man like me, baby,” he pulled out a wad of money and fanned it out for her to see. “You see all this, baby, I can buy you the world.”

As the girl paused on the sidewalk, a big SUV pulled up and parked on the corner. “You can buy me the world?” the young lady asked as her large hoop earrings swung around as she looked back.

“Yeah, baby, get down wit’ me,” Bones responded.

The girl turned her face up and threw her braids behind her head. “Before you buy me the world, go and buy yourself some mouthwash and some soap. You smell worse than a wet dog,” she shouted.

The crowd of people all shouted with laughter as the girl made her way down the street with her friends. “Damn, Bones, she shut you up!” another hustler shouted.

“Man, forget her. She ain’t hot anyway. Just another chicken-head in da’ hood. Shoot them dice, man.”

Everyone was still laughing, including Jesse and Kalen. Bones was getting frustrated with everyone around him and his ego was crushed. He looked up and noticed Kalen hunched over. “What the hell are you scrubs laughing at?”

Kalen controlled himself just enough to speak. “I’m laughing at you, dawg. That girl played the hell out of you.”

“Oh, so you think you got more game than me, lil’ man?” Bones said as he looked around. “So, where’s your wifey?”

Kalen tightened up as all eyes fell upon him. “My girl is at home where she needs to be.”

“Ooh!” the crowd shouted as Kalen’s chest puffed out with confidence.

Bones was starting to get more frustrated. He turned his face up. “Man, get the hell out of here before I send your punk butt home to your momma,” he turned around to shoot the dice.

The crowd got quiet as Kalen’s face went blank. “Yo, dawg, take that back. My mom’s dead.”

Bones turned back to face Kalen. “Oh, that’s the hood rat that I took out a while back. She was a weak piece, too. Yo’ momma couldn’t handle this real man ova’ here.”

Right after Kalen heard that, he blacked out and charged towards Bones. “I’m gonna kill you!” he shouted.

Bones stood up and dropped his money. “Kalen, watch out!” Jesse shouted.

One of Bones’ boys quickly tripped Kalen. He stumbled right into Bones’ hands. “You lil’ bastard! You were going to hit me?” he shouted. “Wrong move, young blood.”

At that moment, Bones and his boys started to beat Kalen down. As they did, Kalen tried his best to fight back.

“Let him go!” Jesse shouted as he charged in to help. He was quickly tackled by another one of Bones’ boys.

Both Jesse and Kalen were getting the crap beat out of them. As Bones and his boys stomped them out, the black tinted window of the SUV rolled down. A man in a brimmed hat motioned to his driver to go over and stop the beat down.

The door opened to the SUV. A black man with a bald head, standing about 5’10”, clean cut and in a perfectly fitted, cream colored suit, with black shined shoes and sunglasses to match, walked over.

This man didn’t look like much of a threat but the way he carried himself, people knew he was not the one to mess with.

“You lil’ punk, this is for steppin’ into grown folks business,” Bones shouted as he kicked Kalen in the stomach.

Bones, that’s enough,” a deep voice spoke quickly. “Cut it out!” he shouted again.

Bones and his boys stopped instantly. “Yo’, Maze, what’s up man?” Bone said quickly.

“Let the boys go,” Maze responded with a straight face.

“Yo’, these little busters have no business steppin’ on my turf. They ain’t welcome here no more,” Bones said as he straightened his clothes.

“That ain’t your call. Big Boss said chill,” Maze said as he looked back at the SUV.

Bones looked over to the truck as well and noticed the window roll up. He looked back to Maze and slowly stepped away with his boys. “Alright, but tell those lil’ creeps not to show their faces around here anymore or they’ll be dealt with accordingly.”

Maze stood motionless as Bones and his boys walked off. As they turned the corner, Maze looked down at Jesse and Kalen. “Get up,” he reached down to help Kalen to his feet.

Kalen snatched his arm away from him. “I don’t need your freakin’ help!”

Maze grabbed tighter. “Hey, lil’ man, I’m not the one to pull away from. Slow your roll, youngsta’.”

Kalen looked up and froze. Maze reached down and helped Jesse up as well. “Who are you?” Jesse said.

“Don’t worry about that right now. Someone wants to meet you two.” Maze pointed over to the SUV.

“Who’s in there?” Kalen questioned.

“The man who just saved your life,” Maze responded.

Kalen rubbed his stomach and looked over to Jesse. He shrugged, indicating that he didn’t know what to do. Kalen took a deep breath and walked over to the SUV with Jesse by his side.

As they got closer, Maze opened the door and motioned that they both get in. Kalen got in first and Jesse followed cautiously.

The back of the SUV was filled with cigar smoke. It wasn’t strong enough to choke them, but the cloud was thick. The man in the back seat was just as clean cut as Maze, but was much larger in stature. It could be seen that he was a tall, muscular man just by looking at him sitting in the back of the SUV. He was wearing a white Durban with a black trim. As he slowly lifted his head, his chiseled face resembled that of the actor, Ving Rhames. The man finally spoke. “Do you know who I am?” he asked as the door closed.

Kalen shook his head. “No.”

“No,” Jesse followed.

“Are you scared right now?” the man said, softly.

“Should we be?” Kalen responded.

The man blew a huge cloud of smoke out then shook his head. “Not really.”

“So, why are we here?” Jesse said curiously.

“I liked what I saw out there.”

“We were getting our butts kicked, and you liked that?” Kalen said still angry, “And excuse me, who the hell are you?”

The man removed his cigar from his mouth and pointed it right at Kalen’s face. “First off, watch your mouth when you speak to me or I will remove your lips to make sure that you remember to do so,” the back of the SUV got very quiet. The man puffed on the cigar again and continued. “People call me Big Boss, and I didn’t mind watching you two get beat, but I did like the fact that you two stood up to that punk. Bones swears that he runs things around here. He stays trying to make a name for himself.”

Jesse rubbed his jaw. “Well, what else were we supposed to do? If we didn’t, then it would have gotten worse. We can’t have a rep out here of being soft. We live in this neighborhood too.”

“True that, young man,” Big Boss replied. “So, you two are like partners in crime, huh? I can see you boys are tight. I like that.”

“Yeah, we’ve been friends since we were eight. Ten years now.” Kalen responded.

“So, that makes you both legal then. Sweet eighteen, I can’t even remember those days,” Big Boss blew out more smoke. “Listen fellas, do you mind taking a ride with me. I want to show you both something.”

Kalen looked at Jesse. He nodded, scared to say no. Kalen looked back at Big Boss. “Sure, we don’t have anything else to do.”

Big Boss smiled then turned his head to the front. “Let’s go.”

Maze started the SUV then pulled off.

As they drove around the city, Big Boss cracked his window to let the cigar smoke seep out. Kalen and Jesse sighed with relief, the smoke was beginning to choke them, but they were still uneasy around this man. Big Boss flicked the cigar ashes out of the window and looked out at the passing city. “Boys, who do you think runs this city?” he said with a half smirk on his face.

Jesse shrugged his shoulders. “The Mayor, right?”

Big Boss chuckled. “Hell no, youngsta’, he’s just the figure head people like to see in this city. He does little here and there just to keep people happy,” he said confidently as he puffed on his cigar one last time before putting it out in the ashtray. “This city, here, belongs to me.”

Kalen looked out of the SUV at all of the people walking by, and all of the houses and buildings that stood around them. “Um, how do you own this city?” he asked. “I didn’t think that was possible for one person to do.”

Big Boss sat back. “I own this city with the merchandise that I supply this city with.”

Curious as ever, Jesse leaned forward. “What type of merchandise do you have?”

Kalen nudged Jesse in the side, indicating that he was being way too nosy.

Big Boss pointed to a bag that sat in the seat next to him. “Open it up and see for yourself.”

“Are there drugs in there?” Jesse said quickly.

Kalen punched him this time. “Yo’, chill out, man. Don’t piss the man off,” he said as he looked over to Big Boss. “Sorry about that, he gets excited sometimes when he speaks.”

Big Boss reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of gum. The expression on his face never once changed. He looked as serious as he did after he pointed to the bag. “Open it and see for yourself.”

Kalen took a deep breath and leaned forward to open it. He slowly unzipped the bag and opened it as wide as it could go. “What the hell!” he shouted as he sat back.

Jesse’s eyes quickly widened. “That bag is full of…full of guns. Who the hell are you, Rambo?”

Big Boss’ expression finally changed, he chuckled. “No, lil’ man, I’m the supplier.” The car slowly turned the corner and started to slow down.

“Guns? Why guns, they just hurt people.” Kalen said.

Big Boss sat up. “Listen, you see this car?” he held his hands out. “You see these rings?” the car slowly pulled into a driveway. A huge house was right outside of their door. “You see this house? It’s all from being the supplier.”

Maze put the SUV in park and walked over to the passenger door and opened it. Kalen and Jesse got out and looked at the house in awe. They had never seen something so big.

“This is yours?” Kalen asked.

Big Boss got out as well. He stood behind Kalen and Jesse. “Yep,” he walked between them, up to the door with Maze. He turned back to the boys as they continued to stare at the house. “In a little bit, I can tell you how this can be your second home.”

Maze opened the door. “C’mon boys, don’t keep him waiting.”

Jesse turned to Kalen with a blank look on his face. “I don’t like this man. I’ve got a bad feeling in my stomach.”

Kalen patted him on the back. “Relax, dawg, he seems alright. Look, if he wanted to hurt us, he’d have already done it. Plus, he did stop us from getting our butts beat.”

Jesse sighed. “Yeah, you’re right. We’ll stay just for a little while, okay.”

Maze cleared his throat. “You girls done chatting?”

“Oh, sorry,” Kalen answered. They both walked up the stairs and into the house.

They both heard Big Boss call out from the back of the house. “C’mon boys, come and see what I have inside.”

“Go to the back, towards the pool,” Maze said as they passed through the living room. “You may like what you see.”

Kalen and Jesse followed the sound of music and people laughing. As they noticed the crystal blue water in the distance, they heard ladies splashing in the pool.

As soon as they walked out into the back yard, their eyes fell upon three beautiful ladies, wearing string bikinis, having the time of their lives in the water. Big Boss smiled as he noticed Kalen and Jesse’s eyes widened as they looked at the women.

“Ladies,” Big Boss shouted, grabbing their attention, “say hello to Kalen and Jesse.”

Two of the ladies slowly made their way to the steps of the pool and got out. These two ladies looked like they just stepped out of a Jet Magazine photo shoot. As they walked over, Kalen and Jesse’s hearts started to pound out of control. “Hello boys,” they both said.

Kalen and Jesse stood tongue tide. They were mesmerized by the two beauties that stood before them, and not to mention the glistening water that dripped off of their bodies.

“Hhhhhi, hey there,” Jesse blurted out.

Kalen still couldn’t speak as he focused on the girl who stood in front of him. Big Boss shook his head with a huge smirk. “Can you speak,” one of the ladies said to Kalen.

He couldn’t even blink. “Cinnamon, this is Kalen. Kalen, this is Cinnamon,” Big Boss said as he introduced them.

“Nice to meet you,” Cinnamon said as she stuck out her hand. The water bounced off of her light brown skin and her cherry lips parted with a lovely smile that continued to break Kalen down.

“Nnnnice to…to…to meet you, too,” Kalen stuttered.

Cinnamon licked her lips gently, making Kalen feel more unfocused than he already was.

Big Boss noticed that Jesse was having a hard time speaking as well. “Jesse?” Big Boss shouted.

“Huh?” he answered as he finally snapped out of his daydream.

“Say hello to, Sunshine,” Big Boss said.

“Hel…hello, Sunshine,” Jesse finally pushed out the words.

“Mmm, you’re cute,” Sunshine said as she batted her eyes. He dark brown skin was just as shiny and her body fit perfectly in that bathing suit.

“Oooh!” Jesse said as his heart raced. He tried to control himself and tried his best to look like more of a fool than he already was. Jesse tried his best to think of something that would help him regain control over his mind. “A fat woman, rolling around in the mud, butt naked.”

Sunshine looked at him very confused. “What did you say?”

“Huh?” Jesse said, not knowing that he had blurted out his thoughts. “Oh nothing, I was just wondering where I could get something to drink.”

Sunshine took him by the hand. “Come with me, the bar is over by the pool.” She walked him over.

Big Boss looked at Maze. “A little too much for them, huh?”

Maze nodded. “Quite a bit much,” he chuckled.

“Would you like something to drink?” Cinnamon asked Kalen.

“Yeah, I’ll take a soda,” Kalen responded.

“Okay, I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere.”

“Trust me, I ain’t movin’,” Kalen answered.

Big Boss walked in front of Kalen as he looked at Jesse, who was finally loosening up. “Rule number one: Never let a woman know that you like her that much. You’re giving her way too much power over you. Be cool and let her come to you. Loosen up and don’t act too much like a virgin.”

Kalen looked at Big Boss with a smirk. “Um.”

Big Boss face went blank. “Are you two virgins?”

Before Kalen could respond, Cinnamon was back. “Here’s your drink, baby.”

“Thank you,” Kalen responded.

Sunshine walked back over with Jesse and his drink. Big Boss sighed, knowing that the two young men had a lot to learn. He turned and headed for the house. “C’mon boys, let’s go into the house and talk.”

“I’m fine right here,” Jesse said quickly. Big Boss turned to face him. Jesse’s face quickly dropped. “I mean the house is fine,” he responded quickly as he noticed Big Boss’s expression. He turned to Sunshine. “Bye, thanks for the drink.”

Kalen took a sip of his soda. “Yeah, thank you.”

“You’re welcome, baby. See you later.”

Kalen started to walk to the house. “I hope so.”

As they watched Cinnamon and Sunshine jump back into the pool, Jesse jumped onto Kalen’s back. “Did you see those honies? They look like they were straight out of the magazine.”

“You ain’t lying,” Kalen said as his heart rate finally slowed down. “They were fine as hell.”

Big Boss made his way over to a chair and sat down. He put his feet up. “Boys, take a seat.”

Kalen and Jesse finally composed themselves and sat on the couch to his left. They looked around the room, admiring all of the paintings of African warrior’s and black panthers. The huge flat screen television that was hanging on the wall was almost as big as the wall itself. “This is something else, Big Boss,” Kalen said.

“Yeah, you’ve got it made. A big house, and by the looks of it, tons of money and plenty of honies,” Jesse followed.

“I guess you could say that,” Big Boss answered as he lit up another cigar. “But, truthfully boys, I want to make you an offer.”

Kalen and Jesse’s expressions went from joy to completely blank. “Uh oh, I told you,” Jesse whispered low enough so that only Kalen could hear.

“I know you see those wanna-be-players out there, hustling drugs and making chump change. Those suckers out there are living the most dangerous lifestyle. It’s a dog-eat-dog world that they live. It doesn’t pay being at the bottom of the food chain, ya’ hear?”

“I guess you’re right, but we don’t want to sell drugs and be in that game,” Kalen said.

Big Boss chuckled. “That’s not what I want to offer you. I want to offer you a position at the top of the food chain in my business.”

“The gun business?” Jesse asked.

Big Boss shook his head. “Not in the gun business, but the distribution business. There’s less stress and danger in this game.”

“I’m sorry, Big Boss, but you’re dealing with guns, aren’t they dangerous?”

“The guns are dangerous when you’re dealing with ignorant people and that’s not who I deal with. You guys can help me out and make a little money on the side as well.”

Kalen sighed and shook his head. “I don’t know, this sounds way too risky.”

“Yeah, Big Boss, you have great things and a great life, but I don’t think Kalen and I are made for this business.”

“Well, let me tell you this. In this business, all you would have to do is pick up a payment and walk out. It’s just that easy. You won’t even have to deal with the merchandise directly.”

“You mean, that’s it?” Kalen said.

Big Boss puffed on his cigar. “That’s it.”

Kalen looked over to Jesse who was still unsure. “How hard can this be?” he asked himself.

Jesse shook his head. “Look Big Boss, I think Kalen and I need to talk about this. No offense, but this is a huge decision we have to make.”

Kalen sighed. “Yeah, Jesse’s right. It looks all good, but I don’t know.”

Big Boss blew out a big puff of smoke. “You two do that, but don’t keep me waiting. I’m a very busy man and I hate waiting for anyone.”

“We’ll get back to you soon, either way,” Kalen responded.

Big Boss nodded. “Take them home, Maze.”

“No problem, c’mon boys,” Maze answered as he motioned to the door.

Without another word, Kalen and Jesse walked out of the house, towards the SUV.

As they got in, Jesse turned to Kalen. “Yo’ man, you can’t be serious. You’re not really considering getting down with this man, are you? Plus, what the hell do we know about guns?”

Kalen sighed heavily. “I don’t know, man. I guess I really have to think about this.”

“You think? This is some serious stuff. I mean, gun running, that’s no joke,” Jesse added.

Maze got into the car, forcing Kalen and Jesse’s conversation to end abruptly. Maze didn’t say a word. He started the car and drove the boys back to their neighborhood.

As they drove, the silence was killing Jesse. He leaned in between the front seats. “Hey, Maze, do you speak?” he said curiously.

“Only when needed,” he said and continued to drive.

Jesse sat back in his seat and looked at Kalen. He shrugged his shoulders as to say ‘oh well, I tried’.

Kalen looked out of his window. He watched the people walking down the streets. A lady was struggling to walk with two of her kids. One in a stroller, and the other child almost ran into the street. There was a homeless man standing barefoot, picking through the trash. Clearly his future was sitting at the bottom of that barrel and it disgusted Kalen to see that.

As they continued driving, Kalen looked up at some of the tall buildings and wondered what people worked in those offices. He wondered how much money they had, and, most of all, what kind of lives they led. Hopefully their lives were nothing like his. He slowly lowered his head and started to think about his life with his drunken father.

“What a life,” he said to himself.

A short while later Maze stopped the SUV at the corner of their street. “I will be back here tomorrow at 2 p.m. If you are here, I will know you boys are down; if not, then it is, what it is.”

Kalen and Jesse nodded. Kalen opened the door and they both got out. As soon as they closed the door, Maze pulled off. The SUV disappeared around the corner. The two walked down the street to Jesse’s house and went in. They sat on the couch quietly for a good fifteen minutes.

Jesse finally blurted out. “Yo’ man, I really don’t feel good about running guns. It’s illegal and it’s way too freakin’ dangerous.”

Kalen sighed. “I know, but we will only be dealing with the money. We won’t even touch the guns. Also, look at our lives, Jesse. Your mom has to work three freakin’ jobs, just to be able to pay the mortgage on this house and to put food on the table. This stupid city has no jobs for us and let’s not forget about my messed up, sperm donor of a father,” he shouted through clenched teeth and shook his head, Kalen’s anger was growing. “I don’t even want to go there. Look bro’, we have an opportunity to make some money and get the hell out of here. All I want is a chance to get out of here and I think this is my chance.”

“We can leave the city, but do we have to do it this way? There has to be another way to make some money, bro’,” Jesse said pleadingly.

“Oh really, tell me one way, and I’m all for it,” Kalen answered then paused as he waited for a response. Unfortunately, Jesse couldn’t think of anything. “Thank you,” Kalen responded to the silence. “Look man, we just graduated from high school. We may not be going to college in the fall, and I’ll be damned if I sign up for the freakin’ army.”

Jesse chuckled. “Yeah, to think about it, I ain’t up for dying overseas for some jacked up war,” he fell back onto the couch.

Kalen walked over to the window and noticed the lights still on at his house. “I’m just tired of living like this, man. I need out of this hell hole.”

Jesse nodded. “I know dawg. We’ll make a decision tomorrow. There’s no need to rush it. I’m gonna head to bed. I’ll see you in the morning.”

As Jesse walked up the stairs, Kalen noticed his father stumble past the window. Even from across the street, he could tell that Michael was piss drunk. He could hear his father screaming for him. “Yo’, you mind if I stay here for the night.”

Jesse looked down. “No problem, man. The couch is all yours. You know where the blankets are,” Jesse walked up to his room and went to sleep.

That night, it took a long time for Kalen and Jesse to fall asleep. Kalen’s mind was already made up, but he really wanted his best friend to be down with him. Kalen, had already started to like Big Boss. Hell, he was the first man who had taken the time to give him a boost in life. In that short meeting, Kalen felt connected to Big Boss, even if he ran an illegal business. Kalen saw something in him and wanted to really know what it was.

It was going to be a long night for the two boys, but the sun was sure to rise as it did every morning in the ‘Field.