1×22 “Running Up That Hill”
Theme Song: “Running Up That Hill” Placebo
Written by: Chris Coleman and Kelly Zollo
Guest Starring: Atticus Kavanagh (Kit Harrington)
Warning: Episode may contain language, violence and other themes.

Yasmine opened her eyes as she stared at Dani who was tied up next to her. As she rotated her wrist which were tightly bond by rope. Her eyes were puffy due to Dani clearly crying. She was pregnant and that brought fear inside of her. How was she to escape or help Dani? This chick was just all up in the news about a abortion. Clearing her throat she smiled at Dani trying to ease the tension they both felt. If Jackson didn’t come through with those drugs what in the hell were they going to do? Yasmine knew for sure this lady wasn’t or a baby die. She also felt Kendrick wouldn’t either. As she bit down on her lip. “Glad to see you got a little rest.” Yasmine said softly.

“Look I know Kendrick and he’s not this monster Dani. He’s wolfing you know what that means? Like the little boy who cried wolf. Look I’m not trying to justify what he’s done but he’s not a monster. My mother was hooked on drugs when I was younger. She did anything she could get her hands on and smoked up my going back to school money. Man I didn’t have a pair of shoes this man took me shopping at Reginald’s. He wasn’t always like this. He wasn’t a monster because he loved me and my family. My pride did it, I jumped into this world and he has had to act accordingly to me. Do I think he’s foolish for doing some of the things he’s done to me. Absolutely, I do because he’s let the monster inside eating at him.”

Dani looked at Yasmine when she started talking to her the only thing she knew about the girl in front of her was that she dealt drugs to Jackson and was with Rory. Her mind was barely on that it was on trying to keep calm in between all the tears she had cried since this morning, all the fear she felt. Fear that was seated deep inside of her bones at what Jackson was putting her through, putting their unborn child through and for what? That was the most confusing part, what was he possibly hoping to gain by doing any of this? Her hands hurt from being tied behind her back, her head was still pounding from Kendrick hitting her there with his gun earlier. Looking through the cracked doorway at the men outside she wanted to laugh at Yasmine, there was no honor there in that room.

“Not a monster? He broke into my house, held a gun to my head, choked me until one of his goons pulled him off me and then took me from my house. He doesn’t give two fucks about me or my child, you know that and I know that. He’s one of the most wanted criminals in the state murder being something they’ve been trying to get him for for years. I don’t care how much of a family you think he is to you or your mother.” Dani bit out feeling the tears prick her eyes. She’d been in the business long enough to know that the Madden organization was something the governor and local law enforcement had been after for years. Kendrick’s name being the top of their list she shook her head at Yasmine. “You involved Jackson in this why? Pissed he wasn’t scoring from you anymore? That you didn’t get to pull one over on Rory anymore either about it?”

Yasmine scoffed as she shook her head seeing the judgement rolling off her. She was tied up just like her and had the nerve to think she was better than her? “Jackson got involved with this because of his brother but let me check all this in the door. One thing for certain and two things for sure I ain’t pull shit over Rory. He came back looking for me at this club. He involved himself in my life so don’t sit over there and throw jabs. Jackson was looking out for Rory and I’m happy he isn’t scoring any more drugs because it wasn’t for him. Him being all lovey dovey with you that shit fit him. Me and Jackson are friends and I am happy for you and him. I’m sorry I got you both into this shit.” She shook her head knowing that the girl had every right to judge her. She was drug dealing stripper. It didn’t get more sketchy than that.

“I understand only that white folk shit. Yeah I know your type too uppity to see that drug dealers and criminals have hearts. His back, you had comfort of knowing you had a daddy. Don’t tell me he’s a monster because that monster gives to the community you smug little bitches ride through every day against the wall Kendrick knew it was either kill Ronan and Ronan would kill him. It’s the rules of the game but my momma and sister was all I had honey. Some of us don’t come out privileged, and just because bitch you weren’t wearing Gucci like Max that don’t mean you weren’t privileged. You had three square meals, you had clothes on your back. A community that your father promised to help yet it’s more crime in Scottswood than ever. You should check yourself because even though Kendrick is wrong for what he did to me and you. He’s still the guy who died a little when Gina died, and when his baby died.” Seeing Dani face react to her words she nodded. “Yeah honey you safe, Kendrick crazy but a baby in harms way nah. No honey my sister was shot down riding one of Kendrick cars. Pregnant with his first born a boy.”

“You could have called Rory to help you. No you made the choice to call Jackson that is on you, not me not Rory that is on you. Of course Rory would involve you in his life that what you do when you love someone. Jackson knows he wasn’t supposed to step foot in that club again it’s too risky for him. It can be a trigger if anything I’m more angry at him than you, he had choices too.” Dani said she wasn’t sure what else she was supposed to say to Yasmine she didn’t ask for any of this. She was more mad at Jackson than she was Yasmine, he had to know that nothing good could come from what he had done. Not to mention it was her house, he knew how she felt about the drugs whether he was around them or using period. She looked over at Yasmine for a moment before biting her lip. ”I know good when I see it and I know evil too you want to make excuses for Kendrick fine make them. I’m sorry about your sister and her child I wouldn’t wish that on my own worst enemy. But that doesn’t make him being a murdering thug go away, if he was your family he wouldn’t have offered you up as a drug mule he would have found a way to get you out, that is what family does. I’m sorry you didn’t get that growing up.”

“You don’t know anything about me. You’re damn straight I did and my parents worked their asses off in their shitty marriage to make it happen. You have no idea what it was like growing up in that house. The constant fighting and screaming growing up. I never had anything handed to me ever period. My daddy wanted boys so I had to fight twice as hard for even a sliver from him.” Dani glared at her how dare she throw some privilege shit at her, her family had to fight for every dime they had growing up. They earned their way when Lowell was out trying to destroy them at every turn after pushing her dad out of DGI. “Had I of been a little faster in my kitchen I would have put two in his chest period. I don’t care how charitable he is. You want to bring up the race card let’s do it. Reality check the police will take Kendrick out. You wanna know why because of who my father and brother are because of the man I love. The only reason they would look for you is because I’m here. It’s sad and gross and I’m sorry for that change doesn’t happen overnight. Your neighborhood feeds on the drugs and the violence and maybe if people like Kendrick and Ronan were actually brought in and put in jail that change could happen.”

The harsh words between them actually made Yasmine laugh. What else she could she do? In all honestly she had men with guns all around her, yet they were arguing about the town. She lowered her head nodding. One thing was for certain they were in this together and battling about who had the worse life wasn’t helping. “Look trust and believe me Rory is doing all he can to make sure I’m taken care of. You aren’t the only one with people who love you. I just can’t help but see the man that promised to take care of me. The man who held my sister when she died with my nephew. Dani I’m sorry about your people I know how that is too. My mom was a addict and she seemed to always have a guy either beating her or screaming at us both. It wasn’t the best feeling.” She looked at her feeling her stomach doing flips. Dani father was the mayor, her brother the ADA, and her fiance heir to a billion dollar fortune. She was going to escape this.

Lowering her head she bit her lip. “I hate to admit it but I guess I am wrong. I pulled Jackson in and he really was just trying to help his brother, Jamal, and myself. Be mad that he didn’t go to the police for assistance but you really have him changing. I see it girl because I was his dealer for the last few years. He’s growing up and I’m proud of him. I wish I could take back all the hurt I did. I know I’ve destroyed someone family by doing the same thing that destroyed mine.” Yasmine took a deep breath as tears threatened to spill. “God knows I wish I didn’t bring you and Jackson in this. I’ve done so much stupid shit I wonder when is it my time. When am I going to die because God gotta hate a piece of shit like me. I’m breaking Dani and I’m so sorry you and your baby and Jackson are in this.” She lowered her head knowing the fear was causing her to lash out at anyone. “I just want my momma alright. If you make it out tell her.” Seeing Dani starting to get emotional. “Just tell her I love her and Rory so much.”

Dani didn’t know what else to do when Yasmine laughed but laugh with the girl, she knew tensions were high not to mention she was extremely hormonal and emotional lately. She was just as scared as Yasmine was for both of them for her unborn child, for their city. The news about Tamara overdosing had been a wake up call of sorts there were people always spreading the poison even when you tried to distance yourself from it. There would always be bad people in the world who would do bad things, it was the way the world worked. “I know Rory is he’s a good guy, we both know not all Devonshire men are. Losing a child changes you I know that first hand. I was in a really dark place but I pulled out and I made better choices. I’m angry at Jackson, confused as to why he didn’t go to the police. I get why he came to me we had some shit we had to talk about but the right move was to go to the police to help you and then come to me. If I had to guess two very good detectives are leading the charge right now and will do everything they can to make sure we come out safe.”

Dani watched Yasmine break down in front of her and she couldn’t help the tears that came out too, that Yasmine thought that little of herself that she was cursed to hell. She was a young girl that was dragged into this mess, who was trying to help her family. She got that, she’d do anything for her brother or cousins. Or her close friends even if those people made really crappy decisions. “I don’t believe that that God would curse you. You’re smart, Rory talks about you constantly. I think you have a good heart that was put in a pretty shitty situation and you can be the change you want to be after this is all over. My brother will let you off for this, he’s fair that way he knows how the organization works. You’ll get to tell your mamma that all on your own, Rory too.” She paused for a moment seeing an understanding between her and Yasmine pass and let out a breath. “If my arms weren’t tied up I’m probably hug you and shit. Let’s not make goodbye promises or last words ok. I don’t want to believe it will come to that. I’ve got to believe in that for my baby you know?”

Nodding her head she smiled as she took a deep gulp of air. “Okay.” She said laughing again. “You’re going to be a good mom. You so just mothered me.” Yasmine saw Kendrick and his associates looking at them as she looked down. “He is a monster. The night he took me he almost let this creep from the block rape me. He slapped me so hard I heard ringing in my ears. I just hate myself and that I became everything that I hated. It sucks so much because I met Rory and for once I knew. I knew something special was happening to me and I couldn’t get out. I tried so hard Dani to run away all I want to do is dance. That’s it but I couldn’t do that because I had to sell drugs. This is the stupidest shit ever you know? I knew better but I did this to help my family to see someone like Jamal jumping into the game baffles me.”

Looking at Dani she truly didn’t know if they’d make if they did. She knew this would forever bond them. They were in trouble together. “You not so bad for a white girl.” She teased as she saw Kendrick walking toward the room. Mouthing a small prayer whatever was coming she believed in him once. As she looked at Dani she knew she had to say this correctly. “Listen I know you have him but you have to just be as respectful as he is. Right now I don’t know if he gone of the powder or what’s wrong with him Dani but he doesn’t care about you being pregnant. All her wants is them drugs and I’m not sure about his life. This nigga kidnapped the mayor’s daughter he not thinking straight. So if he’s pushing don’t push back okay listen to me and follow my lead maybe I can talk him out of this shit.” Yasmine didn’t know what to do but appeal to the logical man Kendrick once was. Seeing him enter the room she exhaled. “Can we talk as Yaz and Kenny? Not me as a stripper and you as a kingpin?”

Dani had went to say something about Jamal because that was baffling her too, what had possessed him to get involved? She felt that when this was all over and the dust settled if she knew Rory as well as she did working with him, he’d make sure those dancing dreams came true. Instead she followed Yasmine’s advice when she mentioned letter her take the reigns so to speak that was fine with her. She had no idea how to get through to someone like Kendrick and as he knelt down in front of them and she saw him open the chamber on his gun and load a bullet she closed her eyes. The man was off his rocker, frightened her to no avail and if anyone could talk to him maybe it was the girl next to her.

Kendrick knelt down in front of them he saw Dani’s face when he loaded the gun as well as Yasmine’s his insurance policy. After getting a report from Rocky that they had behaved earlier when he did let them freshen up and get some food. His mind was still a jumbled mess as he waited for the call with anxiety in him, to ease his nerves he had done another hit. “This all should be over soon as long as I get what Jackson stole from me back. As long as everyone does what I say. I won’t have to send a message. We aren’t those people anymore Yaz.” Kenrick finished getting up he walked back to the door closing it behind him casting them both back into the darkness.

“It’s alright Dani.” She said with all her courage. Her face was flushed with fear she saw the darkness consume them. Her eyes watered as she prayed feeling all the words she mumbled. “Please God save us and protect that baby, amen.”

*********

Bliss stood outside of the mansion doors knowing that she was about to tell her father all about Dimitri and Fox. That fear ate at her. Would he think she wasn’t capable to be a CEO due to her abuse. Her father was a brute and very old school hearing she was a domestic violence victim. Would he think less of her? Hell Jackie didn’t, Max didn’t, and most of all Hunter didn’t. He loved her and hell he already told her Fox was protected. Grabbing Hunter hand she opened the mansion doors. Her father had been stressed since Jackson and Dani big ordeal. She was about to drop something else in his lap. “I think because of what’s happened with Jackson maybe I can hold off? It’s for the best he’s stressed enough a Devonshire heir is out there. Am I supposed to tell him I ran off and left his grandson or I was to be beaten to death?”

Looking at Hunter face she knew that he wasn’t going to let her back down. She twisted her dress looking at him. “Alright, alright I’ll tell him. It’s not something you just say to people oh I have a child who I conveniently forgotten to mention. Who is with a sadistic prince. That’s exactly what I want to tell my father.” She mumbled as Jackie winked at her for support. That woman wasn’t so bad. After all the bullshit her mother told her about Jackie, she was so kind to her. That wasn’t something she was going to forget. As she entered the office she saw a team of people around her father. “Daddy we need to speak.”

“Sweetie can it not wait?” Lowell said looking at his captain who had informed him the police were zeroing down on Kendrick. Either way she was going to have to wait because he had to find Dani unharmed. That baby was the future he had yet to have a grandson and what if this was his opportunity to spoil a young heir rotten. Before his limited time was up. As he saw her face and Hunter expression he knew that this was serious. “Vance go ahead and keep me motivated. Also have Talia call Walter I want them to give me personal updates.” He watched Vance and his team swiftly pack up all their equipment as Hunter and Bliss looked at him. “Max was here earlier and told me you two are done and you two are officially starting. I have to say Hunter you between my girls isn’t making me happy. They have so much between them already.” He exhaled as he looked at Bliss. “What can I do for you?”

“I guess I should start from the beginning, I’m sorry for interrupting but I do want to start the conversation off with Hunter. He’s my boyfriend going forward and I won’t be losing him. Can you handle that?” Bliss said looking at Hunter, then seeing her father studying the entire situation.

“It’s not about me, Bliss can you live with yourself? I have to say I’m not happy with Hunter bedding both of my daughters but if he’s really here for you Bliss and if he and Max are truly done. Then I’ve always been very fond of Hunter. He’s strong and very capable as a business man. So what is this about?” Lowell asked looking at Hunter. “No you will not get her hand in marriage. If that’s what you’re asking that would be scandal divorce one daughter to marry another. No I will never bless that.”

Hunter was not leaving Bliss’s side he had already decided that when they talked about Fox he was willing to take on that responsibility. He wanted to settle down and he understood why Bliss wanted to wait as well. News was starting to break about the kidnapping and while he didn’t want to be an asshole about it. He also knew that Bliss needed to tell her father about Fox for her safety and her son’s.  That was what the most important thing Fox now he knew he could be a good father figure to the boy and an even better man to Bliss than the prince hat beat her ever could. Granted they had the tainted with scandal from the start an uphill battle from here on out he now guessed.

“I would eventually like to marry Bliss perhaps when the scandal is behind everyone. But that it why we came today. Bliss thought with everything going on with the kidnapping it wouldn’t be the best time but it can’t wait Lowell.” Hunter said looking at Bliss to reassure her that now was the time. He took a breath and saw Lowell still staring at them. “Bliss needs your help just as much as the others do right now. Tell him.”

“Dad about five years ago I married Dimitri Kavanaugh of Ilsa De Cruces. The crowned prince of the island. I was young and I thought marrying a royal would get you to notice me.” She said biting her lip. “It was magical in the beginning but soon I couldn’t do anything correctly. It was screaming at first, but then the fist came, and then the kicking. Before long my body and face was covered in bruises. Nobody stopped him because he was the prince of the entire island. His father Hugo would fight him and so would Atticus so he took me to a private home. There he calmed down for a good period and um I thought it was over. I stayed because that’s what a broken woman does, and I became pregnant.” She paused as she turned seeing the rage and hurt in her daddy’s eyes. “I love my baby but I need your help daddy. He has my son and I don’t know if he’s teaching him to be evil as he is. Foxworth Lowell Kavanaugh is his full name and he’s my son. He’s my boy who I need to get back and I’ve been carrying this secret since I arrived and I can’t carry it anymore. Max, Jackie, and Hunter know but you should also because.”

Lowell raised his hand looking at Hunter who was supportively holding Bliss. “Bliss trust me my child you aren’t weak.” He lowered his head thinking about his grandchild and his daughter. “God what have I done keeping myself away from you and keeping you away from the family. Bliss you are diamond and a Devonshire no man should ever. No man will ever again touch you! Do you understand me? Do you get how special you truly are? You are my little girl.” He stood up and walked to Bliss as she fell into his arms. “Daddy’s here and I will never leave you into this mess. We will get my grandchild back and your son. Hunter you work at city hall make some calls to Anderson and I’ll call a few of my friends in the government departments. I swear.”

Bliss cried latching onto her father as she exhaled looking him in his eyes. “It’s not your fault daddy.”

“Yes it is Bliss. God you are my child too and I love you no different. Damnit!” He screamed as he held her tighter. “No man should have hit you! None!” He was beginning to cry seeing his daughter in such pain. “You left my grandchild with him, it must have been the hardest choice in your life. I love you Bliss. Foxworth is coming home. I love his name he sounds like a Devonshire.”

“I love you daddy.” She said softly as she pulled back looking at Hunter. “You were right he’s pissed but not at me. You said that.”

Hunter let out a breath as he watched the scene unfold knowing how much courage it had to take for Bliss to finally tell her father the truth. It was long overdue and he was glad it was finally out and that they could come up with a gameplan for everything. Now that it was out he touched Bliss’s shoulder for support as he looked at Lowell. “I have word that the princes will be here on a trip we need to ensure that Bliss has Fox and then make sure that they can’t leave with him again. I knew your father would never be mad at you for this Bliss. You were the victim that became the survivor. Was Max ok when she came by earlier? Bliss and I have been worried about her she’s been acting off.”

“Actually she and I seemed to have a quite poignant conversation. I did feel like she wanted to tell me something more. My girls seem to understand they both are queens in my eyes. Look I would like for you to check on her. Both of you due to the fact that you two seem to be happy. Max is hard but she feels it all so please you two I’m asking bury the hatchet. What will happen when I am not here you know? I won’t be around forever to put out all your fires. However Dimitri Kavanaugh will never leave this country with my grandson. Fox is a Devonshire and from what I have seen he’ll be a Kincaid also. So I assure you I’m calling Simon and getting a team of lawyers in this. You will never be without him again of any of us.” Lowell said as he looked at the two of them. “I need to continue to look for Kendrick ok because Dani is holding another one of my grandchildren. I’ll be damned if that hooligan and hood hurts that girl.”

Bliss nodded as she leaned in and kissed Hunter. She loved how supportive and concerned he was. No matter how much she loved him, he and Max had the history. Hunter was a hero and sometimes that worried her. Whatever hey sister was into it was shaking her. She saw that instantly when had Max ever been civil? “Hunter let’s leave daddy alone. We will be in touch.” Walking to get gather she kissed his cheek walking to the door. “I love you daddy.”

“Love you too princess.” Lowell walked to Hunter shaking his hand. “This will be handled and I think I’ll call in a favor from a friend. I assure you Bliss that there scum that is that prince will regret ever touching you.”

Bliss smiled at her father as she took Hunter’s hand as she looked at him. “Come on you have that look in your eyes so let’s go find her. She’s the first girl you truly loved I understand.” She said with her full on support. “I think daddy’s correct we can make it happen I mean Max and I. I used to look at her in all the American magazine she was the next wave after Paris, Lindsay, and Kim. She was the sophisticated socialite. Something I can’t help but feel more engaged with. It’s amazing how much I admired my sister until I met her. We clashed like oil and water but I want to be a Devonshire through and through. If I have to crawl through glass I will but I want a relationship with my family you know?” She said as they walked to Hunter’s car.

Hunter nodded his head remembering that he had stuck the gun he had got from Thor inside the glove box just in case. He could make a few calls to find out where Max was but if he had to guess she was trying to figure out what secret Philip was hiding. Given everything that had happened so far in the day that was dangerous the cops had raided the club, Philip had ties to Ronan and Thor and an unease settled over him. Opening up Bliss’s door to the car he nodded his head at her before walking around, getting in the drivers seat and heading off towards Philip’s.

*********

Jamal walked in with his parents and when he saw Rory he knew his best friend hated him. When they made eye contact it was all love though. He was sitting with no doubt in his mind Trisha Kohl even with years of drugs he could tell Yasmine mom anywhere. She had those same mysterious eyes that lured him to Yasmine. As he folded his arms he saw his father speaking with Gideon and Diego. No doubt trying to get him to testify against someone so he’d get his freedom. Either way it goes he was getting his freedom Selina assured that. As he looked at Jackson his heartbeat sped up. They dragged him into this mess and he was honestly trying to look out for them both. As he shook his Godbrother hand he walked to Rory and opened his arms. They hugged and it was awkward especially considering how jealous he was of his friend. He hated that Rory still pulled Yasmine but that’s the way the game went.

As he folded his arms he looked at his madre. “Mama, realmente siento que esto es todo culpa mia? Que puedo hacer?” Jamal saw his father looking at him like why you speaking spanish? Well because he did feel guilty and either way he was ready to figure a way to help Jackson, Dani, Yasmine, and Rory. All these people were being fucked over because he wanted recognition. That just seemed honestly unreal when he saw Selina busting through. He knew the drama was about to be revved up. She was very protective over Jackson and Dani. Then he saw his older bro. “Mason, Selina we over here.” Turning around he saw his father rushing over. What was his problem? “Dad stop, Mason’ only here to support.”

Selina saw a look in her beloved daddy eyes that she never saw before. What was this expression? He wasn’t looking at Jamal or hser like that it was Mason. Was he really about to pull this homophobic shit right here and right now? Looking at her baby brother she raised her hand for him to step back because she wasn’t sure what her father would do. She’d never seen him like this so far gone from the good man. Hell when Mason told her every hateful thing he said and wait until she caught that queen Simon. “Daddy what is wrong with you?”

“Sis calm down don’t come at him like that with all my shit.” He saw his mother looking at him angry at his language. “I mean with all that I’ve done this year and now finding out Mase is gay. Man that has to be hard on him.”

“Him what about him calling our brother a faggot?” Selina said viciously cutting down both Jamal and Ophelia because the disgust was real on their face. “Daddy we are here to support and I suggest you let us do that.”

Ophelia was still in so much shock when Diego had drug Jamal from the safehouse and she and Toby followed. The horror became real once they arrived and Gideon informed them what was going on. Jamal had been breaking curfew for weeks, conspiring with Yasmine about a stash of drugs. Yasmine had turned to Jackson and then like the mob worked they took action. Kidnapping Yasmine and now Dani thanks to Jackson taking the drugs. Dani who had booked an appointment with her. Inside she was sick to her stomach she loved her son but how could he have been so stupid? She wasn’t sure what was going through Toby’s head with it all until Selina and Mason arrived and she was more appalled. No he didn’t get to do this when lives were on the line.

“We’re all here for the same thing aren’t we Tony? To make sure Jamal cooperates with the police and everything he knows to get the girls back safely.” Ophelia said hoping that to be the end of it as she looked at her son. Then shaking her head at Selina. “If Braden throws out his plea tell me you will do everything to help him. He didn’t know it would come to this.”

Tony was trying to convince Diego to not throw out the plea deal that Selina had put together with Kyan. Gideon however was not hearing it and had already put in the call to the DA’s office and as he was reminded he was lucky Gideon wasn’t having everyone involved thrown in a jail cell including Jamal. The best thing they all could do no was to hope the police did their job and that his Godson’s got their game plan together and cooperated with the police. He looked over at Ophelia who was still just as shell shocked as he was over the events as he saw his daughter and Mason walking towards them. He had made his feelings about Mason and his lifestyle very clear and that still applied.

“This isn’t even about Mason it’s about Jamal who I have never been more disappointed in. I have to wonder what excuse you will come up with now Selina for this, he has been violating his plea agreement and led to this entire ordeal. And trust me when I say this when push comes to shove Braden will throw him under the bus, which side will you choose then?” Tony said looking at Selina dead in the eyes and then over at Jamal, he saw the shocked look on Ophelia’s face and Jamal’s. He then glared at Mason and he was sure his entire family was going to send him to hell. “I already told Mason how I feel about him being here, he is no longer my son or a part of my family anymore the longer he lives in his alternate fantasy of liking men. I don’t need his support nor does your brother it would be best if he would leave.”

Mason had been with Selina telling her what happened with their father recently. She in turn had been telling him what happened with Tamara when they had gotten the text from Ophelia about Jamal. He had seen Selina’s face change at her house as they turned on the TV, his own stomach knotted at the kidnapping. He was Jackson’s friend and his eyes scanned the station for him, knowing this had to killing one of his best friends. Once he had spotted him however he was pulled to Jamal, Ophelia and his father instead. He could feel the hate radiating off his father, feel the disappointment and worse the shame that Tony felt for him. He had went to say something only for Selina to speak and then he heard his father speak again. He shook his head at him that is what it was going to come down too? That he couldn’t even be around the family.

“I’m not going anywhere you hateful bigot Jamal needs me, my friend needs me or are you too much of an ass to even see that? This isn’t about how I live my life right now it’s not even about that it’s about the two girls that were kidnapped and making sure Jamal isn’t throw into a jail cell.” Mason seethed not even realizing how angry he was when his voice raised as people at the station stared at them. Let them stare he didn’t give a fuck anymore his father was not going to try and force him out of this important moment for their family. When they needed him, hell when they needed each other shaking his head he let out a laugh. “You’d just prefer I keep hiding wouldn’t you that I marry Scarlett and pretend for the rest of my life. Maybe that is your problem you’ve been pretending all these years hiding being this image o good man and father when we both know that’s far from the truth. When mom got sick you were so quick to bed Ophelia, so much for honorable. Maybe Selina has been right all along and you just needed a good lay after mom died you never loved Ophelia and the only reason you have Jamal or acknowledge him is because you feel obligated too.”

“Woah I was going to tell Diego and have the entire force stop Kendrick. That was my goal so don’t just come at me like I’m stupid and harboring drugs. I was going to do right this time.” Jamal said snapping back at his father. “As for my brother being here man you need to stop dad. Is his loving a man any different than you loving a woman outside of the black race? You know what you a hypocrite always spouting our family was civil rights leaders. Man you aint no leader I doubt my grandfather or great grandfather would respect how you doing your own son.” He purposely bumped Tony as he grabbed his mother hand. “Don’t believe me check Diego text messages. I was setting up Kendrick.”

Selina watched the room silence as Jamal revealed that he had a plan. The kid always had a plan to get out of a worse scheme. So if Diego did know then Jamal was in the clear. She exhaled knowing Kyan would be pissed about this. Hell Braden would also. As she looked at her father she laughed. “Don’t ever test my loyalty to my family I don’t turn on my family members. If my mother was here she would be disgusted about the way you are acting. Ophelia I’m sorry for all I did to you but if this is my father honey you deserve so much better.” She seethed at him. “Homosexuality isn’t a problem daddy it’s not some sort of sickness that Mason will wash away. It’s who he is a piece of who he is. Not the entire person he’s still the boy you raised into being an amazing man I just wish you could see that.”

“It’s wasted breath Selina you and I know that with him. He could care less that I came because of Jamal and the girls, or that I want to support our brother and not go to prison. The only thing he cares about is the sex of my lover, which is sad when you think about it.” Mason said confidently as he looked over at Zach out of the corner of his eye and then saw the look of disgust his father gave him. “Oh look I glanced at a friend the gay will spread to you dad.”

Ophelia stood mouth open horrified at the entire thing who was the man standing in front of her right now? He most certainly wasn’t the man she loved and married all those years ago. She had went to reprimand Mason for the dig about how they began and shook her head. For once she and Selina agreed on this. “Hell has frozen over for once Selina and I agree on something. If you can’t be here and be a father to both your sons get out. Jamal doesn’t need this today, Mason doesn’t need this today. No one needs this today.”

Tony looked between them all and then over at Zach again before looking at Mason. Friend everyone in town knew that Zach was just as gay if not gayer than his own son. “Friend who will probably turn to a lover. How about we all let Jamal decide what he wants. If he wants me to stay or go, he’s the one that got everyone into this mess to begin with. Perhaps Mason over here can show him how a real man takes it.” Before he knew what was happening he saw Mason lunge for him only for Zach to start pulling him back.

Jamal rushed with Zach to pull Mason back from his father. This shit was crazy what was going on? He understood his dad would be disappointed but how could he treat Mason like this. His entire body shook feverishly with rage. As he folded his arms he pointed at the door as he looked at his father. “Get the fuck out! You won’t disrespect my brother in front of me because you are fucking homophobe. It’s a new generation dad and that shit played out either way.” Shaking his head he looked at his mother. “Ma tell him to go.”

“She doesn’t have to Jamal you said all you had to. He did also until you get yourself under control dad don’t call me. Lose my number because not only do you not have a son if you don’t get it together then you’ll not have a daughter.” Selina said grabbing Mason hand and she noticed Jamal grabbed the left one. “You aren’t going to jail and you are perfect.” She touched her brother’s face as she cried. “Go daddy.” She screamed at him.

Mason wasn’t sure what to say when Selina and Jamal had his back but he was glad they did. He felt stronger with them when they grabbed his hands for support than he had in months and he saw Ophelia glaring at his father as well. He knew that if even she had his back it had to be bad, not that he ever thought of Ophelia as a horrible person but she was Catholic and their views on things he knew often fell to the right. He didn’t say a word as he watched his father consider his options only for Ophelia to to speak.

“You heard Jamal and Selina got back to La Callie Tony and don’t show up here again till you can behave like a decent human being.” Ophelia said standing behind Mason and grabbing his shoulders, she waited for her ex-husband’s reply she would not put up with this today.

Tony looked over at them all and shook his head in disgust all his work raising all of them that he put into long hours at the restaurant to give them the lives they wanted. This was his payback, his own children turning their back on him to support their gay brother? He looked at Ophelia and saw her face and he wondered how he had got here with everything. Her disappointment as well as Selina’s ached at him. “Well I guess that is where the line is drawn isn’t it?” He snarled before turning and storming out of the police station, the looks of the officers seeing the interaction getting to him.

“Thanks.” Mason said watching his father go not sure what else he was supposed to say to any of them after a few minutes of silence he spoke. “Let’s get some coffee it’s probably going to get a lot crazier here as this unfolds.”

Selina felt like crumpling as she watched her husband viciously berate Jackson. Her entire body shook as thought about all the hate surrounding her. Her daddy’s rage against Mason and the wrath of the Fraiser men unleashing on Jackson. “I’ll be in the cafe in a moment I need to speak with Braden. I’ll see you soon, and you are perfect baby brothers you hear me. You made a mistake and you are who you are. I love both of my baby brothers and Ophelia thank-you.” She said adjusting her purse preparing to go to war with Braden over what he just did. It was uncalled for and she was ready for battle considering her father infuriated her.

Jamal wrapped his arms around his brother. “Girls or boys I don’t care you used to beat up Jeff Kolaski for me. You still a super big brother to me.” He laughed as he saw his mother eyes. “I messed up didn’t I? I really keep messing up and all I want to do is fix all of this.” Jamal walked into his mother’s arms and felt her warm embrace. That’s all he needed right now.

*********

Walter looked out the window of the car as it pulled into the police station the reporters eager for a picture when he got out. His mind was on Dani now as he scanned the crowd for Lauren. His driver making a way through the press as he shook his head with no comment and a wave of the hand. He had nothing to say at the moment he only hoped Dani came home. He never wanted that to bury another child when their youngest daughter died that had gutted them both. He may not of always got along with his daughter and maybe it was Brenda revealing he had another out there but an unease settled in him. What if Dani didn’t come home? How could he live with that with how strained they were? Once he reached the inside he saw Braden arrive as well and finally spotted Lauren inside the station sitting at Jon’s desk walking to her he kneeled down and pulled her to him. Despite what people thought he wasn’t heartless and this entire mess was eating away at him.

“What happened have they told you anything? I’m right here I should have been with you when you got the call.” Walter said pulling back from her and he saw it in her eyes that fire she had. She was strong and he knew she too was breaking but like their daughter she’d fight through hell if she had too. He turned his head and that is when he spotted him and saw red. Jackson staring off into space and without even thinking he walked to him he was sure he heard Lauren screaming at him. He didn’t care as he grabbed Jackson by the collar and pressed his forearm against his neck. “Just like your asshole of a daddy don’t care who gets hurt along the way. My little girl, you dragged her into this with the drugs she isn’t one of your crack whores. Give me one reason.”

Jackson felt Walter pinning him against the wall. All he could do was take it because he was a piece of shit. Lowering his head he started to cry. For the first time he was breaking because all he could think about was if Dani didn’t come home. He saw Rory and Trisha snatching Walter off of him. He slid down the wall as he exhaled gasping knowing that with his life Dani wasn’t coming home. She wasn’t. His luck and what he had went through in life. Well she wasn’t going to make it. That’s when he saw his mother he reached out to Jackie and held her tightly. “I’m so sorry mom, I killed my wife. I killed the love of my life.”

Lauren approached Walter as she shook her charging past him and slapping Jackson. “That was for saying my little girl isn’t coming home. Now all of you can fight and scream but that isn’t bringing Dani home! So I suggest you hold the fucking pitchforks and let me pray in peace. I’m struggling and this isn’t helping.” She turned to look at Walter and she grabbed him. “If Dani finds out about this she’s going to push us away even more stop it. Now okay? Like it or not the Devonshire’s and Fraiser’s are connected now so we gotta start uniting. Okay for now please!”

Braden had arrived straight from the hospital on limited sleep from making sure Tamara didn’t die as soon as Jon had called him. He saw the rage in his father saw Rory and what he assumed was Yasmine’s mom holding his father back. Saw Jackson slumped on the floor with Jackie and already knew what happened. That Fraiser temper rearing it’s ugly head. Which he got and if he hadn’t been so sleep deprived it would have been him attacking Jackson. “Dad.” Braden said stepping between his father and Jackson. “He’s not worth it.” Turning to Jackson he looked at him dead in the eyes. “Anything happens to my sister or Yasmine. I’ll make sure you’re prosecuted and thrown into the tiniest cell I can find and I don’t care how hard your father comes at me for it. And trust me you’ll wish you were dead.”

Walter looked at Braden as his son stepped between them and he tried to calm himself down Lauren was right none of this was helping he knew that he was so shaken with it. Shaken with what Brenda had told him and looking at Braden seeing the horror on his wife’s face, Selina’s face and Jackie’s at the statement he knew his son wasn’t messing around. Shaking his head as Devin and Jon approached them he looked at Jackson before speaking to them. “Do whatever it takes to bring them both home. I trust you both to do that.” Walter finished wrapping his arm around his wife for once trying to be supportive.

Jackie had arrived as soon as the news broke wanting to be a uniting factor between their families watching Walter almost killing her son though shook her. She got he was angry he had every right to be but listening to Jackson she knew her son, the guilt he was probably feeling. Pulling him to her she hugged him tightly. “Don’t talk like that. She’s not dead you have a deal in place right a smart good deal.” Jackie said doing her best to calm and defuse the situation at hand.

Jackson got up as he looked at Braden and walked toward Walter and Braden. “If anything happens to Dani you won’t have to throw me away in a cell. I’ll be hanging from the highest building in town. I just want you both to know I love your daughter and sister very much. I’m so sorry my stupidity got her into this. Most of all I just want to hold her in my arms and say how sorry I am. I pulled her into this world and lifestyle. I just pray that she understands I was just trying to help.” He looked around at the disgusted faces in front of him. “I’m sorry.” Jackson was through with it. Pushing past a few plain clothes officers her made his way to the front.

“Mom I just want to be alone right now.” He left Rory and his mother as he walked down the stairs. Jackson pulled out his cellphone shuffling through his contacts he called a number he hadn’t dialed in four years. It had been a long time since he scored from Nelson. The guy who sent him on his original overdose. “Nelly what’s up man? I need a eightball of your best snow. Yeah I’m willing to meet you. Where are you? Roadside bar I’ll see you in about twenty minutes man. Thanks.” Jackson then tapped his uber app telling them where he was as he started to walk to TJ’s Cafe.

Lauren watched the poor boy leave when she turned to Walter and Braden as her eyes became furious. “This isn’t his fault you assholes.” She seethed as she looked at him. “God did you have to fucking make him feel worse. We are family now! I’m sick of all these damn blood feuds in this town. Act like men. Act like we are people can’t we ever be kind and just pray. I’m sick of it! God so tell me what are you going to do when he’s not here and Dani comes home. She lashes out at us for pushing him away and unwelcome. I can tell you one thing that damn girl isn’t about to fucking stop being with him. So why? Why did you two come in here swinging your dicks? Why can’t you two for once be men!” She snapped as she walked to Jackie who was watching Jackson from a window. “He’ll be back. I assure you he’s needed and we’ll get Jackson here so when she comes home both of your boys will have their girls.”

Jackie watched as the entire scene unfolded she understood Braden’s anger if anything like this had happened to Max or Bliss she knew that her boys would do the same. Watching Jackson push her away though and how broken he looked how despondent he was she couldn’t help the tears that sprang in her eyes. She had seen that before and prayed to God it wouldn’t relapse, she knew he felt guilty that his hope was likely gone. Gripping Lauren’s hand in her own as she watched him through the window she spoke. “We created quite the mess all those years ago didn’t we? Perhaps this will give everyone the perspective they all need now, I know the police will bring them both home we have to believe that.”

Walter wanted to throw his hands up at Lauren he had backed off when she told him too but he wasn’t going to apologize for what Braden said. His son was if anything protective over his only sister and his mind had to wonder if that would be the same for his daughter with Brenda. He shook his head heading into Gideon’s office if anything he wanted to be at the center of everything for now to take a moment to reflect. It was the only way he knew to help and casting a final glance holding back tears for the bad thoughts in his mind he walked into Gideon’s office.

Braden took a breath as he watched Jackson storm out and nearly wanted to sneer at his mother did she really expect him to roll over when his sister had been kidnapped? Instead he took a breath knowing that between Tamara’s overdose and then this he wanted to sleep and then figure all this shit out. Not only was Jamal’s plea agreement on the line, his star witness in Yasmine was in danger and his sister was kidnapped with her unborn child. He looked at Selina and saw her face and he wasn’t even sure what to say to his wife right now. “I can’t even begin to deal with Jamal so don’t even ask right now. Don’t look at me like that had it been Jamal kidnapped you’d be saying the exact same thing.”

“I’m looking at you like that because you’re becoming your father. That little burst of rage I’m not sure if I can even deal with you right now. Don’t you think he had enough? Huh? He knows that he got his girlfriend kidnapped God Braden be a man.” Selina hunched her shoulders. With everything happening did they jump into this too fast? Did they do all of this just to truly indulged the dream of being with each other? Did she just ruin her own life to marry someone whose convictions don’t match hers? Selina wasn’t about beating someone when they were down, even when they hurt herr family. As she shook her head. “I just never saw that side of you and it’s ugly. It’s dark and I never thought you were like Chauncey but that was pure Chauncey.” She said as her voice trailed off. “I’m going to go see if Jamal and Mason need anything. The thing about feuds is.” Selina spoke loud enough so Walter could hear. “Is that you are normally looking at a mirror reflection of yourself and that’s why you hate the other person so much. Man I just compared you to your father and Chauncey. Irony isn’t lost on me.”

*********

Gideon looked around the room the turn of events leaving the department on high alert the anxiety was even higher. For so long Ronan had a strong hold on the streets with the drug trafficking he was doing drive bys had taken over the Scottswood neighborhood, not to mention the bigger crimes. Crimes that he couldn’t even think about at night murders, rapes, muggings the worst was the innocent children caught in the crosshairs. He still remembered the last one that hit home and now Kendrick had crossed a line they could never come back from. In reality there would never be the manhunt that was on just for a lowly stripper but Walter’s daughter and Braden’s sister. Not to mention an all but confirmed member of one of the richest families in Pennsylvania that was beyond his control. He adjusted his tie as he walked back into his office seeing Jon and Devin inside.

Jon was one of his best detectives just like his old man, loyal undirty and soiled but he was also connected to the case in ways he didn’t know if he was ready to be on it. Right now he had to think about the greater good though the two girls that Kendrick had as his hostages. “Devin, Jon I would assume that you both understood what I just told everyone in that room? We need Kendrick brought in alive. You know that his testimony will help the FBI catch Ronan. I mean it you both need to but your personal feelings aside on this or I can assign other officers.”

“I have no personal feelings right now Gideon. I have a thirst to catch this bastard to put Ronan away forever. Right now I’m clear as I’m ever going to be. I’m here to get the girls and get Kendrick. My friend and partner Devin got my back. We have team of feds in other words this is about to be exactly what we need. Years of our sweat and tears went into this. Hell my sister’s husband died for this moment. So I’m not here to fail Gideon, I’m here to finally get our man.” He said confidently. “I just have to focus you know clear my mind because today could get crazy.” Jon knew he was lying how could he turn off his disgust with Kendrick? It was clear as crystal but he would also bring him in. Miranda deserved that for KC.

He looked at Devin as he looked at Gideon studying Devin. “Look I won’t lose it tell him Devin. I’ve been way better since I returned. No PTSD nothing man I’m good.” Jon said as he cracked his knuckles. “What should we do if we get a legit hostage situation? This is the mayors daughter if it’s him or Dani. I choose Dani right Gideon? Or should I tell Walter that we have to bring in Kendrick?” Jon questioned as he looked at Devin. It was no question in his mind he knew what he’d do. If it was Dani or Kendrick he was choosing Dani.

Devin knew what Gideon was asking and looking over at Jon he wasn’t sure Jon would be neutral and neither could he but he also knew that they were the best for the job. He understood why Gideon wanted him brought in alive but like Jon said in a hostage situation he wanted to know what the rules were. Jon was good right now no signs of his PTSD had been on record for over a year since Skye was out of his life. Other than that one fight they had and an offhanded comment Jon had made he had Jon’s back. They were partners plain and simple and they both wanted to nail Kendrick for Miranda and the others.

“I agree with Jon what are the terms if this goes south? Kendrick has been a wildcard since all this happened doing things no one thought he could. Including almost having the girl he thinks of like a sister almost raped.” Deven said looking at them both knowing he had two choices. Voice to his boss Jon could be unstable sometimes or keep his mouth shut and make sure everyone made it home alive and in once piece. “Trust me and Jon to do our jobs like you always do. We just want to know if we have permission for lethal force if push comes to shove.”

Gideon looked at them both lethal force was always the last resort always. America was in a place of police distrust and if some tips coming in were right it could all go south very fast. The Scottswood neighborhood was one of this places due to circumstances over the years. Yes his department was trying to make it better but he often felt it was like punching a brick wall. He was sure those in that community felt the same at the root of it all was the Madden stronghold there. Drugs and gangs did nothing to help either side he knew that and it was often an uphill battle.

“You know lethal force is the last resort always the last resort. We have policies and procedures in place you try to make the arrest. We all know what is at stake.” Gideon paused looking at the distraught people out in the waiting room family and friends of the two girls. He could never order them to murder Kendrick but he wouldn’t cry any tears if they removed him from the streets permanently. “On the record the DA and the Feds want him brought in alive if possible. Off record you use caution and everything by the books. If you feel your life or theirs is in danger you serve and protect. Use lethal force if you have too as a last resort. By the books am I clear?”

“Clear sir.” Jon said looking at Devin as they walked out of Gideon office. “I know that I haven’t been the most politically correct guy around. What you did in there sharing that I haven’t had a episode thanks. I have said some stupid shit but I’m not a racist and I’m not a guy who doesn’t care about my best friend. Now did I want my best friend screwing my sister no. But you care about Quinn like a father and you treat Miranda like a queen. I guess what I’m trying to say is you’ve been a friend to me when I didn’t even know it. You brought my sister back to life man and I can’t say enough what you mean to my parents. After KC we wasn’t sure Miranda would love or live her life to the fullest you brought her back with Quinn.” Jon patted him on the back.

“No matter what happens today thank-you. I’m sure we are going to get them back but what happens in the line of duty can’t be called like he wants. I want nothing more than to bring him in but you saw that video. Does that look like a man that’s going to come with us willingly. He openly killed a man on camera. That’s not something a smart criminal does or any criminal for that matter. Either way I’m going say this I got your back out there Devin.” He looked at his partner extending his hand. “I’m sorry if I offended you man.”

Devin followed Jon out of the office warily knowing where Gideon stood on things helped but he like Jon didn’t want it to come to that. If anything he wanted Kendrick to not throw his life away but he knew from watching the footage perhaps he was too far gone. He or Jon would take a shot if they had too and only if they had too. He heard Jon talk about their past the last year and yes Jon said an off handed remark but he didn’t think he was a racist. They had different perspectives on the world and that was ok. He nodded his head at him as he brought up everything and shook his hand.

“I know you have my back and I have yours. I know this hits close to you just like it does me but what I need to know as your partner is that if it gets to be too much or too clouded you’ll tell me Jon, let me take the lead.” Devin said as they finished the handshake and he let out an exhale before looking at the clock time was ticking and they had so much left to do. Team in place, Jackson still needed to make the call and then make the exchange all in a day’s work the longer it went on the longer the girls were still in danger. “Let’s work on the schematics just go over them one more time. Zach have you reached out and found the best place for the meet? Somewhere neutral I hope.”

“Fremont park it’s a local spot where the people of Scottswood play basketball and lots of criminal activity happens. We’ve had plain clothes out there since six. Jackson will be in Fremont park at eight sharp. From there we’ll have Dwayne, Lisa, Miranda, and myself on the other side of the park where the old gazebo is. That’s where you, Devin, and Diego will be placed along with two other FBI agents. From this vantage point we will have a shot at Kendrick and will surround him.” Zach said looking at Miranda. “This is our moment and I want everyone to study the schematics of the park. It’s enough for us to be out there and make sure nobody is hurt.”

Jon looked at Zach and nodded as he thought about Devin and Gideon’s words. Was this all too much for him? He felt like he was about to get back out there in war. He however knew this was just another mission to protect his friends. A young girl who had been pulled into a lifestyle that she didn’t need to be and a dear friend who he had neglected because he was ass. Dani had always meant so much to him and here he was pushing her away because of what reason? He couldn’t have her? That wasn’t what friends did. After all she deserved so much more than how he reacted to her and Jackson. He was going to let her know that he missed his best friend after this.

“Zach I’ve arrested people in this park plenty of times what I want to know is how do we protect ourselves from Kendrick followers I mean we are sitting ducks. If those guys out number us then how are we supposed to get out of this?”

“The point is that Kendrick did a coup that has failed most of Ronan men aren’t with him. He left with four guys you telling me we can’t take down four men?” Zach said looking at Devin and Miranda.

Devin looked over at Zach and Jon and knew that this was their shot that they had to take there was no other way around it. Despite it being heavily guarded and watched that meant that they had to take the risk. “I agree with Zach he’s scooped this out numerous times from different angles. Ronan’s men aren’t even answering his calls meaning his crew is few. We make the perimeter and go from there.”

“Zach’s been over this plan from top to bottom, it’s been presented to the feds and Gideon. This is the best option Jon. Now it’s just a waiting game.” Miranda said inside she was screaming for both Yasmine who she considered a new friend and her oldest and dearest friend. She knew Jon was worried about what they were about to do, but they had to do it. “Tell Jackson it’s time to make the call. I’m going to go check on Trisha again.”

*********

Skye adjusted her purse on her shoulder as she parked her car a few blocks from the police station avoiding the cameras out front, she had turned on the news shocked about the events. Then she had called Merci who was not answering her phone, given what was going on she was worried about her friend. Meaning the one person she could turn to was Jon, of course she knew that Jon was busy with the case but she wanted to see if someone could check on Merci. She’s spotted Kendrick with Merci months ago but said nothing it wasn’t her business. She knew he was dangerous though walking into the police department it was a frenzy. Looking over at the Fraiser’s and the Delacroix’s, she assumed Rory was with the other girl Yasmine’s mother. She spotted Jon through the crowd looking at the whiteboard in front of him.

“Hey it’s a little crazy out there. I heard about what happened on the news and I thought you could use the support.” Skye paused when she noticed he wasn’t even focused on her or what she was saying. Instead his eyes were straight ahead on the board in front of him she stared at the pictures of Kendrick, Yasmine and Dani. A part of her was still jealous over Dani and she knew that was irrational. Jon was never with Dani and she knew that but the fact he was so focused in on the picture didn’t sit well with her. “Earth to Jon. Still here with you standing right here.”

Jon knew that it was only a matter of time before Jackson made the call. He just didn’t know what to do. If Dani died or her baby. Hell if Yasmine died he felt like it would be all his teams fault. Miranda was undercover for a year and they were so close to bringing down Ronan. Hell if they brought down Ronan then Kelly O’Connor, Vladmir Stavridis, and the Marcos brothers would be gone also. The cartel around the country that major drugs were being pushed through although nobody could prove it. Looking at the board he tried to get into Kendrick mind. Was he leaving? Was he trying to run after the exchange? Would he hold the girls further hostage? What was his goal? When Skye said earth to Jon he snapped into focus.

“Skye what in the hell are you doing here? Huh? I have work to be done and if you can’t see we have an kidnapping situation. Two women and one happens to be my best friend since we were kids. So no Skye I’m not on earth I’m trying to figure out how to save those women and hell more than anything I’m trying to figure out how to take down Ronan. So do me a favor go home or get out of my face. Right now I need to be focused Skye and I don’t need a distraction from you.” He hated how Skye treated Dani when they were together the first time she was very disrespectful. “I’m sorry I just need to focus.” He walked up the board and threw it down letting out a roar. “Fuck!”

“I came to see how you were and to possibly see if your precious time could be spent trying to reach Merci. She won’t answer my calls and with Kendrick’s ass out of whack I was worried about her. It’s not like her to just not answer my calls or even text me but since it’s Merci and not one of your precious friends you could give two shits less.” Skye seethed looking at him and wanting to roll her eyes he was being such an asshole to her at the moment. She got that they had history between them and she probably wasn’t the nicest person in the world to Dani the last time she was in town. In fact she was such a bitch to her but she certainly didn’t wish her ill or her unborn child. “Clearly you can’t even fathom a relationship at the moment which was what I thought we were doing or maybe I’ve been reading all those nights the last few weeks wrong.”

Looking at him she stared at him in disbelief and hurt before turning around and starting to walk out of the station she’d find someone else to help find Merci. She was a fool to think that Jon cared about her friend and now she had to wonder what she was even doing with Jon. Cassie was itching after him still and she still felt he was hung up on her, feeling Jon grab her arm she wrenched herself free and looked at him. “I am not your punching bag because you’re having an off day and your precious little friend is missing, you want to do that go find someone else. I mean it Jon I’m not in the mood for the little games this time with us. Just let me head home and find someone that isn’t so occupied to help find my friend ok and you can work out whatever shit you have going on here.”

Jon knew that he wasn’t in the mood for Skye’s jealousy, for that matter he was sure Skye wasn’t who he wanted. It took a while but it was earlier today when he saw Devin and Miranda talking he couldn’t see that with Skye. She was sexually his match in many ways but when he and Cassie made love it was different. Maybe their connection wasn’t as strong as he once believed because he was doped up on mood stabilizers. Folding his arms he looked at her and knew what he had to do. “Look I will always care about you Skye, you are special person but I honestly think that right now where I am in my life. I can’t do this to you because the woman I want is Cassie. It’s been her for the last year and I just have to see where that’s going. I’m a jackass I know but I’m going to follow my heart for once. Maybe if I did five years ago I would be with Dani now and not Jackson. I have to do what makes me happy and this isn’t it.”

There it was finally out he was feeling like they were heading to a relationship and that wasn’t what they were. The sex was always amazing but Skye and he weren’t soulmates. He was mad at Cassie for not budging and that’s why he left her alone. He knew what he had to do. He had to reach back out to the woman that he wanted. He had to tell her for the last time. As he bit down on his lip. “I will always care and I’m going to send a couple of officers to Merci home. I will do whatever I can to help her if she’s in danger. What I can’t do is be your man or support. Not now, not ever when I’m in love with Cassie.” He said it outloud and smile came across his face. “I love her Skye and you deserve the happy ending that only you can have.”

Skye looked at him and bit back the bitter tears she had really lost sight of everything by getting involved with Jon again and now she felt no guilt for spying on him for Lowell. She had let her defenses down with him ever since that night at his house and sure it was partial revenge at the time to stick it to Cassie. But she was also connected to Jon and really though maybe this time it could be different between them. Eyes fuming at him her hand reached up and smacked him as hard as she could across his face for using her for sex while pinning for Cassie. That hurt and maybe she deserved to be on the other end of it this time but she always thought Jon had more honor than that. Had more decency than to treat her like trash, who was she kidding she was an orphan that people knew she was easy to bed and the sex was good.

“You’re an asshole maybe you should open your eyes to this one Cassie is still hung up on Thor she probably always will be and to think I came here today to try to figure out what this was. To maybe try and support you, don’t bother sending someone to look for Merci I’ll find her myself. You’ve made that perfectly clear now haven’t you.” Skye said shaking her head at him while she saw people staring at them how embarrassing. She didn’t bother to say anything else to him as she walked out of the building shaking her head, taking out her cell phone she sent a message to Merci again. Before she knew it she was running straight into someone and looking up she saw Jackson who seemed to be staring off into space. “Sorry I didn’t mean to…are you alright? This has to be really hard on you.”

“God not you.” Jackson said shaking his head walking back up to the police station. He was high as a kite and didn’t need her to be in his face. One thing Skye wasn’t a fool and more than anything she wasn’t dumb when it came to drugs. If he didn’t move fast then she would know he was high as a kite. It took twenty minutes to blow six months of sobriety. All he could think about is what would happen to Dani. What was he going to do if his stupidity lost Dani? Ever since they reunited he knew. He knew that she was the one more than anything else. It killed him to even of the option. Hell he was cursed and told her that in so many words. Now it was all coming into fruition.

Seeing her shocked face when he said that. “Skye I’m sorry but right now I don’t have time for you. I just need to focus on my family and get my fiancee home. Can you understand that?” He said walking up the police station stairs. Turning around he looked at Skye. “Don’t go back. Don’t be the person you were because the moment you do. The moment you give into that desire you are going to slip right back into that place.” Biting his lip he walked up the stairs refusing to look back because he knew she would know. He was high and Jackson couldn’t afford that.

When Thor walked up he saw Skye standing their rejected twice. Damn that had to hurt. He’d been watching her and seeing Jon give up on her that irritated him. He didn’t need Mr. Good-Guy to go back for Cassie yet. Not yet because she hadn’t seen they were perfect for each other. Either way he knew for a fact that he had to keep going. He had to get her now because seducing her would be easy. Showing her that she deserved more only to snatch it away and show Cassie she needed him. As he approached her he saw she was shaking. He dropped his cellphone in front of her. Waiting to she put her head down, he did it at the same time making direct contact. It always hurt to hit someone hard head but it would be worth it.

“My apologies I just seem to be not watching out for a stunning creature as yourself. You ever feel connected to something but you aren’t? I um went to school with Dani and as much as I hate to admit it. My brother is apart of this entire mess. He’s older than I and um he has to make sure, that this is over. It sucks honestly but I truly think that if those girls make it out, then a lot will be over. If they don’t well we are in the middle of the biggest war that I ever seen. I’m sorry I’m Thor and you are?”

Skye wanted to laugh God what did she do today to get the brush off from both of them? When she was being sincere nonetheless. That was the laughable part she did care about Jackson as a friend and she cared for Jon for more than that. Apparently none of them cared at all and that hurt and looking over at the handsome man in front of her Thor Luciano mob kingpin and younger brother to the elusive Ronan Madden, still a bastard but only in name. She wrapped her coat around her as she bent down to pick up his phone. He was also connected to Cassie and hurting that bitch at the moment was something she was well versed in doing, she’d hook him. She knew she would still be in Jon’s blood oh the fun she was going to have.

“I used to until just now. Now I just want to head to a nice little bar or maybe not. I could use a drink right now and I do hate drinking alone.” Skye said looking at him as a small smile appeared on her lips she pulled out her phone and let out  a sigh of relief when Merci had finally texted her back. She wanted to ask if she was at home only for Merci to state she wanted to be alone for now and was going to stay in and watch the news. A good friend would have went back home to check on her but she wanted the revenge. The sweet taste of a small victory for all the hurt she was feeling. “Your place perhaps?” Skye said walking towards his waiting car smirking a little when the man look at Thor waiting for a nod and the door opened.

“I thought you would never ask.” Thor said with a dark smile. “My car is this way the driver will take us back to my condo. I couldn’t get the penthouse this old bitch named Tess took it.”

*********

Stepping out of a scorching hot bubble bath Greer rang her hair out. Wrapping a towel around her head she made it a turban. Opening the curtains of the country club the day was over and she had slept it away. Hell it was the first time she wasn’t sleeping with one eye open. Not trusting the very man you are laying next to, took it’s toll on her. Turning on the television the news was on and she gasped reading the scroll. Dani Fraiser along with Yasmine Khol had been kidnapped. She sat on the bed as the words sank into her skull of what they were saying. A pain of guilt started prodding at her. She did just out the poor girl medical records and now she was hostage pregnant. That made her sick a little as knew what she had to do. Chauncey even though he hated Jackson he would never allow his brother to suffer like this. This was a rallying call and the Devonshire’s would all rally around Jackson. So she’d needed to be there. Quickly rushing to her barely unpacked closet she picked out a Balmain jumpsuit. Rushing she threw on her outfit and applied minimal makeup. Spraying on her Chanel No 5 perfume she grabbed her Birkin bag, butter soft leather jacket, and she was ready

As she walked to the door she picked up her keys and phone. Opening the door she saw her father’s face. The text message she informed him about Zerick and her breakup. That was enough to get him to Atlas Falls. She threw her hands around her father’s neck and hugged him until she swore he couldn’t hug anymore. “Papa.” She said her French accent now out and thick. “Everything is going wrong and I’m scared that Zerick will try to expose our plan to keep his under wraps. I need to get to Chauncey so I can support him because Natasha is here. They threw us away father and I just can’t let the Devonshire’s get away with this. I just can’t so help me figure this all out Papa.”

Pierre had arrived exactly an hour before with the news breaking freeways closed down, police out in full force. The text had been a slight change in the plan it moved the timetable up with his arrival. No turning back now though when Greer needed him and he had his car drive to be resort. Resort staff had been shocked when he stepped foot inside and he knew it was only a matter of time before the whispers got back to Lowell and Jackie. Of course the staff had no idea why he was here and he checked into a completely different room once the staff had left he made his move. His private security escorting him up to Greer’s room as he looked at her hugging her and pulling back.

“You will stay here at the resort let Chauncey sweat it out your focus needs to be on this next step. A LeClerq never chases after their prey or their lovers no my dear they chase after us. Chauncey has yet to even chase you send him a text wishing him well and if he needs you to seek him out.” Pierre said knowing where she was going to try and no doubt come to the Devonshire aid he would rather rot than that happen. He went to the wet bar pouring them both a drink as his security made sure that they were in private in the room. “Zerick has turned on you completely then? He needs to still be agreeable for phase two.”

“Well he’s not and what makes matter all the more worse he thinks he can finish this without us.” Greer said letting the words of what he said hit her body. She was chasing after Chauncey and that wasn’t what she had to do. He’d come willingly and she knew that but supporting him for some reason felt right at this moment. Her father however lost everything including his brother to the Devonshire’s. The estranged LeClerq brother’s hadn’t spoken in over twenty years due to the ousting at DGI. Folding her arms she looked at her father knowing that they were secure to speak. “How are we to acquire the stock if Zerick isn’t my partner? How am I supposed to pretend when I know there is no way I can finish this without him? This is pointless because I’m basically whoring myself out without no reward.”

Greer sat on the bed looking at her father. “You’ve treated me more like a peer than a child. I’m asking as your daughter? Should we give up and go back to the drawing board. The art of surprise is with us now if he betrays that then what do I have?” She said looking at him. “I just need to work with him to get DGI under our siege.”

Pierre looked at her this was something he had prepared for the ambition that Zerick held ultimately that would be his undoing. Pierre leaned down to squeeze her shoulder gently she of course made good points as well. “Zerick has always been like this a little too big for his britches if you will he thinks he can do this alone because he thinks he doesn’t need you. No one will bit with just him at the helm Greer I’ve made that assured with certain things in place. Let’s just say Lowell may receive a file on Zerick from an anonymous source listing some certain things that he may not like anymore. Putting him on the outs you let me take care of that.”

“Perhaps I have treated you more like a peer than a child recently to teach you what you needed to know about this. Lowell will try everything he can to make sure you and Chauncey are never one once he knows who you are. You must use whatever means necessary to make sure you are a permanent piece of that family for not.” Pierre said taking a sip of the liquid in his glass and then looking at her, she looked so much like her mother. At times he remembered that about Agnes how lovely she was, how they were so happy to start their family. He’d fled to Europe and that plane ride had been the worst of his life. When he stepped foot in the Paris that is when it was over, closing his eyes he opened them to look at her. “I should have been there I missed so much those first years.” A sentence that his lawyer had talked down after five years served in an American cell he then fled to Europe, where they stayed and he plotted and planned.

“You were always writing and uncle Harvey took great care of me along with mother before she died. The past is in the past and I don’t see a reason to go backwards. You weren’t there for me when I was a child but you are here now.” She said grabbing his hand as she smiled at him. “I think that Zerick knowing that at any moment I can crush him. Well that’s an interesting dynamic switch. Me having the upper hand against him and if that’s the case well, let’s just say Mr. Westwood would get exactly what’s coming for him.” Years ago Zerick sought out her father and demanded help with his revenge plot. It was then she stepped up and made sure Zerick understood that the LeClerq’s deserved DGI right along with the Fraiser’s. It belonged to them all and if Lowell wouldn’t give it then they’d take it. Uncle Harvey had gotten soft over the years but she wasn’t. She knew her father didn’t do what he was sent away for. She knew he was an integral part of DGI and deserved more than to be ousted for no reason.

“Father I have so much to contend with, Natasha Hassan is here.” She said softly as she looked at him. “She is trying her hardest to compete against me. If I had something though that she couldn’t give Chauncey yet. Well I think I’d win this war. Daddy you are brilliant.” She leaned in kissing his cheek. “I have to go see my doctor and I’ll be back but I’m going to give you something you need. I assure you that they won’t get rid of me at least for nine months if I have my way.”

Pierre knew that Greer would do what she needed to get the job done that was his fault as well as his brothers of course Harvey had gotten how would be the best word over the years lenient. He let matters of the heart dictate what he would do at DGI which over they years turned out to be nothing he blamed that on a weak heart for a foolish woman. Guilt for prison was something he wasn’t sure he would overcome, he should have been the one teaching her and raising her. He shook off the thoughts as he nodded his head at her knowing that the plan would move forward one way or another. Sipping the liquid he placed the glass down on the tray while he signaled to his guard it was time for him to go.

“Do what needs to be done and they would never cast you out if you birth Lowell an heir the man’s ego knows no bound where that is concerned. Just be careful that the right man you are bedding is the father.” Pierre said looking at her proud of her sacrifice for their cause leaning in he kissed her cheek gently. Grabbing her shoulders for support as the men helped her put on her coat and grab her things. “Tell them where you need to go for now we must pretend not to know each other during my stay. When the time is right Lowell will know I am back and if all goes as planned you will have your permanent place and we will have back our missing piece.”.

Greer picked up her champagne glass as she smiled at her father. “Too us getting back exactly what we deserve.” Their glasses clinked against each other and she sipped her father’s favorite champagne knowing what her next move had to be. “Danielle isn’t the only one having a baby.” She giggle as her eyes grew dark. “I promise to give you everything you deserve father.”

*********

A mink coat and negligee was what she was wearing home. Oh her mother was about to have a field day with this one. She was so right. She knew Ronan was going to break my heart and he did. Covering her mouth she started to cry again as she looked over at Val. Hell Val had been their for all her breakups she should have known it was coming. She started to laugh through the tears. “Girl you are the worst best friend every time I get in a relationship you come around and poof it’s over.” She laughed and then Val laughed before long she wasn’t crying. “I can do that gig with Kendall, and Gigi now it’s incredible how open my schedule just got. Girl I’m going to be the face of your line, and everywhere. He’s going to see me everywhere and it’s going to drive him crazy at least it would me.” The limos were in the estate she lowered her head. “No Val, I can’t do it. In front of that’s a Devonshire limo no doubt my brother is here with his latest Lowell female spawn. God I don’t know who limo that is and is that a bentley come on I can’t do it.”

Val just rubbed her back as she lowered her head. “I wish I had a mood stabilizer or something.” She’d tell the butler to place all her things in the spare bedroom Val and she wouldn’t be here long. They’d move together in a cute loft or studio that was the plan now that they were both single. As they walked up the stairs she looked at Val. “Thank-you for not being judgemental after I told you this man was my soulmate. I guess I was too young or just not hood enough I don’t know.” As she walked into the mansion she looked at everyone gathering around the television. “Tell me that means Dani is home and so is that other girl Yasmine.” She exhaled when she gasped. “Andy!”

“Brooke!” He said opening his arms for a warm embrace. “God you are more pretty every time I see you, hey Valentina.” Anderson grabbed Hunter in the embrace. “I missed you two more than you’ll know. I can tell you Wyatt is bigger than a house and he’s absolutely a smart ass. I hate him more and more as he becomes a teenager.”

“My daughter who is dating the mobster what can I do for you?” Brenda said ignoring the tender reunion.

“Well I’m not dating a mobster anymore so that’s why I’m home.” A silence hushed over the room as she looked at Brenda’s elated eyes. “Mom really?”

“What I’m so happy.” She said running to join the Kincaid family huddle. “Oh this is amazing and I have a surprise for you go into the kitchen Brooke.”

“Mom?” Anderson said looking at Hunter and Bliss. “Mom are you sure about that?”

“Absolutely or Bliss darling be a dear and go get our last guest! And you take off that last year’s mink you look like a mob moll still.”

“Mom no!” She shrieked as she started to battle with her mother over the mink and the psycho wondered why nobody visited her.

Atticus Kavanagh was sitting in the kitchen going over some diplomatic matter when he heard Brooke’s voice. Of course he had screwed up their engagement an influence from his brother he regretted. For reasons both political and private, he had a wandering eye and at most a few kisses and or small sexual encounters were one thing full on cheating on Brooke had nearly destroyed the monarchy. He could win her back he knew that now after all he had cards her family would need not that Bliss had been located and she was with Hunter. It also sounded like her romance with that disgusting monster was now out of the question as well taking his brandy off the kitchen island he walked into the living room.

“Stunning as ever fighting over mink. Hello Brooke. You are more beautiful than the day you left if that is even possible.” Atticus said taking her shocked hand is his trying to judge her reaction happiness perhaps, a hint of disgust? Leaning down he kissed it before rising he knew she had to be shocked at the news perhaps even angry at her mother so he spoke first. “I arrived in town for a tour of the country my father thinks it will build relations with the President. Since I’ll be here for a few months and I had an urgent matter to discuss with Hunter and Bliss your mother was gracious enough to invite me to stay here opposed to the hotel or resort.” Atticus said shooting Brenda a look to play along part of what he said truth the other part a well fabricated lie.

Brenda smiled mischievously. Hearing Brooke had broken up with that nothing criminal made her delighted. Now she’d have all the ammo to finally become apart of Ilsa De Cruces monarchy. To have a Kincaid become royal was all she saw. The power was immense and having her daughter as royalty well that was all she needed. That would be all she needed to reclaim her spot as queen of Atlas Falls. Slowly moving the hair from her face she smirked. “It’s not my fault dear he called and how could I put a prince in Hotel LaGordia or the resort darling?”

Brooke stood back and took it all in for a moment. Turning to see Val smiling widely and everyone was looking at her. She wanted to run upstairs and lock the door. Two men had sent her well onto her way into becoming a lesbian already. Ronan promised her everything, and left her with nothing. Then Atticus was her young soulmate and he truly shaped her take on relationships. They were perfect at one point. Then he cheated for some reason unknown to her. They were happy and here he was being his charming self. Talking in that accent that was pure sex on a stick. Ronan had broke her but maybe her mom was right. Maybe this was fate after all they had went through. When he kissed her she turned her face letting him only lightly peck her.  Flipping her long hair she bit down on her bottom lip before speaking to either of them. She turned to her mother shooting her daggers of death. She was beaming and she couldn’t help but smile her mom had looked so miserable ever since the election and daddy’s death.

“Mom that was really nice of you but I would have killed you if I was still dating Ronan.” She said with a enough slickness to see the mere mention of her being with someone else got under Atticus skin. It should. He hurt her and no she wasn’t going to be with him or Ronan. She was going to marry her career right now. Moving her hair behind her ear. “Actually you should be staying at a hotel Atticus. I’m staying in home right now and you can’t be here. You can’t be in my air because I hate you. You cheating son of a bitch. Now mother get him the fuck out of our house.” She said seething as she walked to Val. “You remember Val don’t you know the friend who saved me after you broke me. No Atticus take your good manners and your fake charm and get the hell out of my house.”

Hunter looked over at Bliss and he knew that Brooke was going through her stuff with Ronan but having Atticus at his parents estate was imperative to getting Fox. It showed that he was wanting to help Bliss and strengthen their ties. It sent a message to Dimitri that he couldn’t just come to American soil and then leave with Fox. “Brooke please just.” He began only for Atticus to speak again.

“I am sorry to inconvenience you and your family Brooke. I could possibly stay in the guest house on the estate I normally wouldn’t be so rude to you brother cutting him off afterall we all were nearly family and I am sure he and Anderson would prefer that I not be here. However Dimitri is coming in a few months my father thought it be best to send me first, I’m the more approachable you know this. Bliss was once married to my brother and it would work in her favor if I stay here for her little boy, my nephew.” Atticus said looking at Brooke when she finally connected the dots to little Fox and the Devonshire connection that was now the Kincaid connection. He looked over at Bliss he felt guilty for not protecting her back then from his brother and that weighed on him but he knew as long as Fox was in the homeland there was nothing he could do. “I can still leave if you want. I will respect your wishes but I am hoping you reconsider for Fox.”

He knew that things ended badly between them but when they were together Brooke had adored his nephew and always questioned where his mother was. Bliss always had to make excuses due to the abuse and in turn he would make excuses for her. Brooke had also seen Dimitri’s anger first hand and he hoped she could put things between them aside for a few months for that. “I wouldn’t ask this unless it was imperative that for appearances if anything I stay here or in the guest house. I am sorry about the way he treated you that had to be horrifying to be thrown out of his house like that. I would have never done that…” Atticus said knowing he had no right to say that to her but he did believe that she deserved better than that. “I am sorry for what happened between us and perhaps one day you can forgive me for everything.”

Brooke looked at Bliss and Hunter’s pleading eyes and knew she was going to budge. It wasn’t a second thought in her mind. Fox was with that sociopath Dimitri and nobody deserved to endure that torture. As she folded her arms she nodded her head feeling like she was about to blow. So if she did allow Atticus to stay he’d no doubt be trying to charm his way into her life again and if she didn’t then that boy may never come to America thus starting the process of him being with Bliss. Clearly she wasn’t evil so she knew her choice she just prayed she didn’t regret it.

“Atticus you hurt me but that’s honestly minor compared to what Bliss went through. I never agreed with Dimitri placing his hands on a woman let alone the mother of his child. I am sorry that I was being a brat a few seconds ago Bliss.” Pulling the mink down a little she nodded. “You are to be in the guest house. You are to never come upstairs and finally stay away from me this summer. I plan on tanning, working, and partying but you won’t ruin my summer. I’m boyless and I’m celebrating being independent of a man.” She looked at her mother, Hunter, and Bliss. “So the answer is yes you can stay but believe me the moment you invade my space, you’re out of here. So Bliss and big brother it’s on him. Not me tell him to stay away and I’ll be fine. Val we are going out tonight. We are leaving Atlas Falls and going to Philly because I want to dance away all this.” Brooke grabbed Val hand.

“Thanks Brooke.” Bliss said watching Brooke skip away no doubt the girl was in pain. Her ex-boyfriend was here and her current one was clearly having problems. “Atticus I have to thank-you also. What you’re doing could be considered treason in Ilsa De Cruces. I appreciate the sacrifices you are making but.” Bliss paused looking at Hunter and Atticus watching Brooke and Val laughing. “But if you’re going to win her back you have to do something grand dude. You hurt her and let Dimitri get in your head. She didn’t deserve that and I honestly expected more from you. So go big because that girl deserves it. She just got me my son back in my arms.”

“I know.” Atticus said watching Brooke out of the corner of his eyes, he would follow her rules for now. He knew her though the partying and other things were a void and if he stuck it out long enough she would see that he had changed and still cared about her. He looked up at the clock and then stepped back from Bliss. “I have some calls to make for Fox’s sake, it will take time.” Walking out of the room he stated to send a flurry of texts to various people at the island most importantly the fashion designers for the house. He knew how to woo Brooke and it all started with her favorite things.

*********

Jackson would have never thought he’d come to a police station high as he was. He was shaking a little out of fear but more than anything it was the feeling of failure. Walking in he could tell the entire Fraiser clan was talking about him. Seeing them all look at him with disgust he felt dirty. He had tried to appease them all but no matter what he was a Devonshire. Seeing his mother, Rory, and Trisha sitting on the other side of the station he dragged past his families sworn enemies and into familiar and less hostile faces. Flopping down next to Rory he felt his brother’s arm crane around his shoulders. How couldn’t he help Yasmine and Jamal? Jamal was family and Yasmine that girl never caught a good break in life. She deserved to be happy and that was the most honest thing he could say. As he looked at his mother he saw that look. Jackie knew but she was more fearful for Dani to question his state. He was sure Rory could tell too or maybe he was just paranoid.

“I came back, and I’m sorry mom that I um freaked out like that. I um just want to say thanks for being here. I know dad is so disappointed in me. I know Chauncey is laughing. I know everyone who said I was junkie was right. You know? I did the most stupid thing. I let my ego think before my head. I just knew he would never figure out that I had the drugs. I knew it.” Jackson said lowering his head. “Now if anything happens it’s on my hands. I just wanted Jamal man to be okay mom, and Trisha your daughter has been a friend to me for the last few years. I don’t consider her a drug dealer she’s someone who helped me a lot. She made me see how fortunate I’ve had it because she doesn’t. I’m sorry I placed them in this place. I’m sorry Rory for having your girlfriend even in this situation.”

Jon walked up to Jackson and stooped down. “Look I know we don’t get along but it’s time for you to make this call alright?”

Jackson didn’t even get a chance to hear his family’s response when Jon appeared out of nowhere. “Alright.”

“Fremont park, and you’re going to have the drugs and money alright?” Jon said reiterating the facts to him.

“I got it.” Jackson dialed Kendrick number knowing that in a hour he’d know if he was going to hold Dani again or was he going to jail for obstruction of justice by taking the drugs. Either way he was dying on the inside. Pressing the send button he dialed out to the man who was holding his fiancee hostage.  “Kendrick hey man did you um think about my offer? I have the drugs and I just want to pick up the girls.”

Kendrick had been watching the clock looking back and forth checking on the girls and blowing that white powder up his nose to calm his nerves. When the phone rang and he saw Jackson’s number he picked up the phone opening the door to the room where the girls were. He could swear he saw Rocky eying them still wanting them and he felt sick, what in the hell was he doing? Instead he rolled his neck and answered the call tucking the phone by his ear while he lit a joint and listened to Jackson speak.

“I hear ya Jackie boy. I’ve thought about it I ain’t going to your side of the tracks though. A little too risky if you know what I’m saying. They’re still safe in once piece just like I promised.” Kendrick said taking a drag of the blunt and looking at Yasmine in the eyes seeing her looking at him. “Let’s get this done time and place?”

Rory had been sitting with his mother and Trisha waiting it was all they could do, he hated waiting without a resolution to any of it, he wanted to help. His anger had subsided at everything he didn’t think that his brother really wanted any of this to happen. It did though and when Jackson took a seat next to him and he say his mother’s face he knew, his brother was high or had used recently how long ago he wasn’t sure. He wanted to say something only nothing came out honestly there was nothing he could say. Yelling at Jackson about it wouldn’t do any good and for Christ’s sakes they were in a police station. Instead he saw Jon come over prayed the cop didn’t see and then watched as his brother made the call.

“Twenty minutes, I’ll be a Fremont Park under the viaducts. Look I know that park I’m a junkie and I’ll be able to find them and you. We’ll be able to make the exchange with no problem okay Kendrick.” Jackson said as he heard a click in his ear looked at the station go into a frenzy. The sounds of guns clicking, computer closing, and people briskly moving past him. Miranda was the first who helped place a microphone in his ear, Zach came back and briefed him on what he was do if their was a shootout, and Jon helped him put on a bulletproof vest. “Soldier boy you were right. Dani did deserve better than me.”

“Hey Jackson I’m done beating on you. Right now it’s not about us it’s about the support we can give those women okay?” Jon said as he looked at Rory. “Hey get your brother to calm down. We don’t need him messing up okay?” Jon walked away to his desk pulling out his gun and loading it.

“Rory I’m shaking and I just want a moment to myself.” He said almost stumbling down. Jackson laughed a little as he looked at his disappointed brother. “Don’t look at me like that. Don’t judge me. They already are and I just needed to take the pain away okay? Everyone needs to take the pain away.”

Rory grabbed his brother’s shoulders as Jon walked away wanting him to know that he needed him to focus right now. If he used he used, that was on his brother but right now he had to stay focused on the exchange. “Listen I get why you did it ok, I get why you went to Yasmine you wanted to help her. Help me and help Jamal but man no one could have predicted this. That Kendrick would follow you and kidnap Dani no one knew that on top of taking Yasmine.” Rory said seeing Jackson looking at him knowing his brother used. “You messed up and after they’re safe and home then you work on it ok? Look at them does it look like they’re really going to let anything happen to Yasmine or Dani?”

“No it doesn’t.” He said innocently as he bit his lip. “Rory I just wanted to be the hero for once and not the screwup. I’ve been the fucking screw-up my entire life, and for once I just wanted to be better than Chauncey. To do more than him.” He said looking down as he shook his head. “I know that I used man but I couldn’t handle it Rory. I couldn’t handle the thought of losing the one person who means everything to me. She’s my rock and my heart so I.I.I.I. just couldn’t.” He lowered his head knowing that his brother understood. “I got it. I’m not that high that I can’t do this. I can bring home our girls.”

Rory let out an exhale not quite sure how Jackson would manage while semi still high at the moment but he had to have faith in him. Nodding his head at him he looked at his brother. “If it helps think about it like this what a kick ass story you get to tell your kid afterwards. How you helped the cops save their mother and take down a drug kingpin you can leave out all the bad shit. Me and Yasmine I don’t know over for dinner or some shit like that. We got this. How about we go to the bathroom splash some cold water on your face so no one else gets wind of this shit and get them back.”

*********

The car finally stopped as Yasmine felt the last bump. She wasn’t sure where the hell they were. After Kendrick got the call, a black hood was placed over her head. That’s when she heard Dani and her seatbelts unfastened. She wanted to try and run but she couldn’t see. All she could hear was basketballs pounding against the pavement. As she was forcefully placed in a seat of another car and the hoods were removed. Look frantically over at Dani she felt relief seeing she was still alright. As she felt the cool air of the spring finally surfacing. It wasn’t freezing but it wasn’t warm. She wiggled her arms as she looked at Dani. “It’s alright Dani we are almost done with this. You’re about to be home and safe with that bambino.” Her chest began to feel tight something was going to happen. She tried her hardest to free herself from the ropes around her wrist. “Dani I need you to listen carefully okay?” She said her voice almost cracking. “This usually doesn’t go the best way for the hostage. If Kendrick grabs me first you run away okay. This um Fremont Park I grew up just up the road. My momma’s house is up the road. You just have to run okay?”

As she looked around she wondered why Kendrick would take them to Fremont Park, or why would this be Jackson meeting place? This was the most safe place on earth. What in the world did Jackson Devonshire know about Fremont Park? Wiggling her wrist feveriously she knew she only had a little time left before bullets were inside of her body. Kendrick wasn’t leaving here with Dani or her. The police wouldn’t allow it even if it mean their death. “Dani can you grab the ropes from my arms?” Turning her neck she saw Kendrick standing a few feet away. They were past Gina so he said and if she could get a gun she’d shoot him. Trying to turn without the few goons or Kendrick seeing her was a challenge. “Dani? Come honey snap of it. We gotta go fast.”

Dani looked over at Yasmine her mouth was dry and she would kill for some water at the moment, her hands were tired. Her body hurt, all she wanted to do was go home wash the day away and bawl, she wanted to see her family again and to see Jackson again. She wanted her life back scooting to Yasmine she reached behind her back leaning forward just slighting and tried to grab the rope, her hands were numb though from the circulation being cut off and she shook her head. “I can’t reach it when I try to the circulation cuts off.” She knew where they were in the park and looking around she had a sinking feeling of hope coming through. Open park meant open sight lines meaning people were doing their jobs.

“I know where we are, listen he grabs me first stay in the car. You know those two cops I was talking about? One’s a former special ops guy top of his class sniper. I mean it this goes south stay in the car. He won’t hesitate especially if Kendrick decides to go off his rocker.” Dani said looking at Yasmine stare at her, she was more scared taking a bullet from Kendrick. Jon was one of the few people she would trust with her life period. The other was her brother and Jackson. Despite what he did, she did still love him she just wanted to know why. She saw Kendrick finally turn around and make his way back to the car. “He’s coming.”

Kendrick took the cash exchange from the car switch he had a plan take the money and get out of town or hell go to the Madden estate have a real showdown with Ronan. He knew some in his crew like Rocky wanted him to put a bullet in the two girls but he wasn’t sure he wanted that on his conscience murdering Yasmine and a woman that was pregnant. He opened the door taking a drag of his joint and he looked back at the girls, seeing Yasmine’s broken face at him and the fear on Dani’s face. He put the car into drive looking down making sure his gun was holstered just in case he then drove down the road towards the meeting spot. His mind wandering back to Gina and his unborn child, how far away his promises were. He saw Jackson at the spot as he approached slowly and he put the car into park, he made sure Jackson could see he kept his end of the bargain.

“It was never personal Yaz it was just business and maybe, God maybe I screwed up when you went to Ronan after Gina died. We can’t change that now can we?” Kendrick said looking at her and that is when he decided he couldn’t let the police shoot her if they showed up, things went south he was taking the white girl sitting next to her. She was a good insurance policy and he stepped out seeing Jackson take a few steps forward. “That’s far enough Devonshire you have my cash and my drugs?”

Jackson was shaking partially because of the drugs, partially from the adrenaline bursting through his veins. As Jackson approached the car he saw Dani from the window and wanted nothing more than to run to her. To grab her and tell her how he had messed up so much but no more lies. To protect her from this monster that stood before him. As he walked closer he saw Yasmine’s face watching him also. They both were alive he wasn’t lying. God he wished he could talk to Lauren and Rory right now. To let them know the girls were alive and they were fine. “Dani I’m coming.” He said ignoring Kendrick. “I remember when I was sixteen you sold me my first rock. You are the worst type of person. You pretend to be a good man but you aren’t. The giveaways and all that is a front man to make you feel like you are at ease. You’re evil to do this man. Yasmine always talked about how you protected her but you aren’t a protector you’re a killer. A killer who I hope get’s exactly what’s coming to him.” Throwing the bag at his feet.

“There are your drugs and money count it if you must but trust me Devonshire’s don’t worry about pennies on our billions of dollars.” Jackson seethed as he looked around Kendrick and was focused on Dani and Yasmine. “You have the money and the drugs let them go. Dani first.”

Kendrick looked at the bag and that is when he saw it on the park bench across the street woman with a baseball cap with an earpiece and it hit him it was fucking Mia she was the cop? Grabbing the bag he took a step back. His eyes scanned the rest of the park he had been so focused getting to the meet that he hadn’t checked for a sting. He saw the cops start to come out and that is when he went for the backup plan. Opening the back door he grabbed Dani by her arm pulling her close to him making sure she was positioned between him and the car.

“Step back right now. I said no coppers.” Kendrick said looking at Jackson dead in the eyes and then down at Dani’s frightened face, twisting her arm just slightly for her to wince while he watched Devin shove Jackson back. He closed the door to the car to shield Yasmine from the gunfire if it came. He saw Jon step out of the shadows and shook his head. “I’ll do it if ya’ll don’t back off right now. We all square now that was the deal!”

“Kendrick it’s over!” Zach screamed from behind him as Diego grabbed a fleeing Rocky throwing him to the ground and placing cuffs on him. “Let the girls go! I mean it Kendrick hands up and let Dani go!”

Jackson watched from behind the car. He watched as Dani face contorted in pain and shock. How could he do this to the love of his life. “Please God.” He said begging watching Dani in Kendrick arms. He didn’t know what to do. “Kendrick let her go!” He screamed as Devin held him back again. “Devin please that’s my girl!” Miranda rushed to him and dragged him off. “Miranda get your fucking hands off of me! That’s my fiancee he has to let her go!”

“Kendrick this is Detective Harrison with the AFPD. Listen man I know this isn’t how you wanted it to end. Look let the girls go and the judge will take that into consideration. What I need for you to do now Kendrick is place your hands up and let the girls go. Come Kendrick it’s over and I can make sure you have a cushy life. Witness protection come let Dani go.” He looked back to see Miranda and the rest of the force holding Jackson back. He could concentrate now. “Let her go right now or I’ll be forced to take action come on Kendrick.”

Kendrick knew it was over as he watched the scene unfold in front of him Jackson screaming at him, some cop yelling orders. People scrambling around them in the park seeing all the guns come out and he looked back at Yasmine one last time in the car. If anything they would all know he went out a man, going down fighting that he wasn’t a coward or a rat and he could tell that Yasmine knew. As he reached into the side of his pants, he heard the shots ring out and then everything went black and cold.

The moment that Kendrick reached for his pants everything went silent. Jon took a deep breath and closed his left eye. Without hesitation he squeezed the trigger and saw Kendrick body land in the middle of the street. He had been the perfect sniper in the Army and his skills hadn’t gotten rusty at all. When he heard the screams of Dani everything came back into sound. Seeing Devin rushing to Dani and Yasmine aid. When he felt a pat on the back from a officer he knew that he had taken out Kendrick. He turned around instantly began to vomit. He couldn’t help it. Jon had promised not to kill again unless he had to. He had to but that didn’t mean he felt any better by playing God. Crouching down he saw Miranda touching his back. “I had to or you saw right?”

Yasmine screamed as she saw Kendrick hit the pavement. Yes he was criminal but he didn’t deserve to be shot down like a dog. She screamed viciously to let her out. “Someone call 911!” She screamed as she let out a gut wrenching yell again. This was partially her fault and how couldn’t she see her place in Kendrick death? His blood covered her and Dani from the bullet going through his skull. Devin begin to remove the ropes on her arms. She instantly began swinging not knowing what else to do. “You could have shot him in the arm or leg! Why!” She screamed feeling completely alone. Everyone was running around patting each other on the back for another dead black man. “Oh God!”

“Dani!” Jackson ran to her as he quickly scooped his fiance in his arms. “Dani! I’m so sorry, I’m so so so sorry that this happened to you baby. Are you? Is the baby? Are you alright? Dani?” He said kissing her lips and holding her closely. “God please is our baby? Are you? Did he do anything to you?”

Yasmine turned around and screamed again. “Did he do anything to her? Kidnapping isn’t enough? You sellout!” She screamed at Devin stooping down she couldn’t breathe. Yeah he had done some cruel shit to her but Yasmine still saw him as her big bro. All the things that the man had done for her flashed back in her mind. “Oh God Ms. Watkins.”

Dani watched when Kendrick had reached into his pants and the only thing that she could describe that happened next was relief and horror when she heard the gun went off. She had closed her eyes felt him let go of her arm and opening them screamed seeing his body slump down to the ground. It was over and her hands still tied behind her back she leaned against the car, crying till she felt the rope slide free and she looked at her cousin, as Zach rubbed her back and she tried to stay calm looking at the dead body in front of her. She was sobbing by the time that Jackson reached her and she didn’t know what to do or say as she simply nodded no at him. She wasn’t hurt that bad her shoulder hurt and her head did she didn’t think anything was wrong with the baby. Before wrapping her arms around him and burying her head into his shoulder.

Rory ran from the feds car where he had waited with Jamal while it all played out and he watched as Kendrick fell to the ground he was a monster. He saw Yasmine freaking out as he brushed past Devin and pulled her off him, wrapping her in his arms he knew this was hard on her. Kendrick was like family to her and he rubbed her back. He understood that she was angry right now she had every right to be but he saw the entire shooting go down. Kendrick was given ample time to let them both go, no bloodshed needed and he had reached for something. He could feel Yasmine pushing him away and he held on tighter to her.

“I’m so sorry baby. I know you loved him, but you’re okay now. You’re safe.” Rory said his voice catching just a little as he kissed her before pulling back, she was still struggling against him no doubt wanting to reach Kendrick’s body and he walked her further away as he heard the ambulances arrive. Listened as Miranda barked at the paramedics to take them all the hospital a smart move. He turned his head just slightly to see Kendrick’s body lifeless on the ground and the police working to gather evidence. “It’s all over now.” He whispered.

*********

Max had been fighting with this damn jewelry box for hours literally it wouldn’t budge. It was locked and she’d tried everything from a pen, to a kitchen knife to the rest and finally the hairpin she had been picking at the lock for a good twenty minutes. She finally heard the click of the box and looked inside flooded with it’s contents. Notes of some sort and taking them out her hand covered her mouth. Pictures of Veronica were at the bottom with a lot of photos with Scarlett too and she zoomed in on the red circles around her face. It took her a few seconds to piece together what she was looking at only for it to dawn on her. Philip was Scarlett’s stalker that was what she knew. Why would he do this? A chill ran through her body she always knew he was Forbes son but to go after Scarlett in this way? For what?

Dropping the photos on the counter of the bathroom she took a few steps back and that is when she heard the door to the condo open and Philip’s voice in the hallway talking to the doorman on their floor. Shoving everything back inside she walked as quietly as she could to the master bedroom debating her next move. She was certain if Philip saw her he would know that she was scared of him, that something was off. Taking the gun out of her purse she instead went to the master walk in closet hiding in the small section that held a few of her things. Perhaps she would get lucky and the police would come get him for questioning, she waited with baited breath hearing Philip downstairs.

Philip had been jogging tonight and he just needed to clear his mind. He had the proof that Scarlett had done something to her sister. He just needed to get her to confess. That was the final part of his plan. As he walked to the fridge he heard a noise upstairs and he swore a door closing. “Max?” He called out only for the silence to respond back. Shrugging he knew it was his imagination now. Opening his refrigerator he pulled out a bottle of Voss water and took a deep gulp. As he charged upstairs he walked into the bathroom and paused. He left the jewelry box inside of his master bedroom. It never left his master bedroom so why was it now all of the sudden in the bathroom? “Max?” He called out again as he began to look around the room. Her perfume still lingered in the air and he turned to music box. As he touched the lock he saw it was broken. A rage simmered inside of him. Why would she do this? What was she thinking?

“Fuck!” He screamed throwing the box as his chest heaved up and down. Philip had to find her and explain. Walking to his closet he immediately opened it and jumped back to see Max there holding a gun. “Woah.” Raising his hands he shook his head. “So you know what I’ve been doing huh?” Looking at her shaking hand he knew she was terrified of him. “Max you don’t need to be afraid of me but I need you to put down that gun so I can explain what’s going on ok? I can explain all of this because none of this my fault. I love you remember? I love you Max so much and Veronica was your best friend. Listen to me Scarlett killed her. She killed Veronica and I have to prove it okay? I can’t rest at night knowing that Scarlett murdered the woman who I was going to marry.”

Max pointed the gun at him looking at him her hand shaking, it was heavy and she’d shot it a few times but it felt heavier. Seeing him step back she tried to steady her shaking hand not sure if he would lunge for it or not. She heard his pleas and wanted to believe him but he was stalking someone under her nose, hell Scarlett was having a baby for heaven’s sake. She got the whole dark and twisted shit, it was part of the reason why she felt she and Philip molded together so well but that was even a bit too sick for her. Shaking her head at him she took a few more steps forward leading him back down the stairs.

“You wanted me to leave it alone not look at the box when I was over the other day and now I know why. I should have listened but I wanted to know what you were hiding from me. Scarlett? Anyone who plays your game you stalk and destroy their life?” Max seethed wanting to say more to him and relenting when she lowered the gun just slightly as they both heard the door open downstairs.

“Max!” Hunter called out his gun in his hands aimed at the floor at the moment as he saw Bliss still in the hallway. Thankfully for him when he stated to the doorman he was worried for Max’s safety and a strong armed call to Lowell the man gave them a key. He knew Philip was home thanks to the doorman and he had no clue what dark shit he had pulled Max into. All he knew was that Max was scared of him and was scared of he situation. “I’m here whatever Philip has got you involved in just come back to the estate with me. We can go to the police and let them take care of it.”

“Stay out of this golden boy.” Philip barked at Hunter. “You know me better than anyone else Max. You know me and you know I wouldn’t just be doing this for just any old reason. I’m twisted and I’m dark but you know me. You know that I’m not lying and the police investigated Veronica death as a murder they just had no proof on who it was or why. I’m telling you Veronica and Scarlett were both being molested by their father Max. Veronica was going to go to the police before we left and then she dies under mysterious circumstances such as drowning? Don’t believe me I have diaries and proof. So please just listen to me and put the gun down.” Philip begged as he looked at his woman. “I love you Max and yes what I’m doing is horrible but I can’t let her get away with murdering Veronica.”

The look on Hunter, Max, and Bliss face said it all. So there it was the Nichols secrets all on display and for the world to see. The sickness of what they heard seemed to shock them all. “I found out after her death. She set it up if anything happened to her I got those diaries. They are um in the safe upstairs. I can grab them and read you all the perverted things he did to them. He ruined Scarlett and she snapped because she wasn’t the pretty one. She wasn’t the um one who was getting away. Scarlett was very jealous of Veronica you know that. Why is it such a jump that this twisted bitch killed her own sister out of spite?” Philip roared at Max. “Put down the gun.”

Bliss jumped at Philip’s voice as she looked at her sister who was shaking also. “Max listen to me. I know we aren’t the best of the best sisters. I want to be though. I want my sister to meet her nephew. He’s coming home soon please Max put down that gun. He’s not worth losing your life over or doing something crazy.” She yelled as she looked at Hunter. “We have to stop this. Please put down the gun.”

“Listen to Bliss put down the damn gun.” Philip lunged at Max as he grabbed her arms and the gun went straight up in the air. A shot rang out in the condo he could hear Bliss screaming. Then he felt the impact of someone crushing his stomach and him falling to the ground. “Get off of me Hunter!” He threw the first punch landing square in the golden boy perfect jaw.

Max had no time to react when Philip rushed at her and the gun went flying out of her hands. A shot going off and she had to remember did she even have the safety on. Before she could even say anything Philip and Hunter were rolling around on the floor in front of her and she was trying to figure out what had happened with the entire thing. Vernocia’s father raping her and her sister they were best friends they told each other everything so she thought. She went to break up the fight as she saw Philip on top of Hunter and she heard a gun go off and saw the color on Philip’s face drain and the blood appear.

“Oh my God! Hunter what did you do!” Max shrieked.

Hunter had tackled Philip the moment he lunged for the gun and he in turn had lunged for Philip socking him as hard as he could. They tussled and turned on the ground and somehow Phillip landed on top of him and reaching to shove Philip off he felt his finger grip the gun’s trigger and to his horror it went off. He looked up at Philip’s face as it contorted and heard Max scream at him and his whole world stopped. Had he even cocked the gun? He saw Philip’s body fall backwards as his blood seeped all over his white shirt.

“Bliss call 911! Where does he keep his kitchen towels?” Hunter yelled seeing Philip’s blood going to his rug from his body while he rushed into action and applied pressure on his wound.

Bliss watched everything unfold and she couldn’t help but scream. When Hunter demanded she call 911 she looked at her sister who was pale. “Yes I’m at Plaza City Center Condos and theirs been a shooting. Please hurry I’m on the nineteenth floor.” She looked at Max and knew what she had to do. “Max look at me. You and Hunter stopped a burglar do you understand. Grab that um jewelry box and put it in your purse along with the gun that you brought here. We can’t let this get out okay? It wouldn’t look good for dad or you or us any of us. So it was a burglar right Max?”

Philip laid bleeding out as he tried to keep his eyes open. “Max.” He managed to croak out. “I loved you.” He said before closing his eyes unsure if he’d ever open them again.

Max went into auto pilot as she watched Hunter pressing his jacket to Philip’s wounds and him telling her he loved her. She nodded her head at him she knew he did but he couldn’t go our like this not after everything. She didn’t care about the jewelry box anymore her focus was on Philip. Stroking his cheek she bent down when he closed his eyes.

“No you can’t go yet. I signed the papers I gave you what you wanted. You can’t just leave me now.” Max said her eyes seeing the shock on Hunter’s face and then her sister’s. “A burglar?” She managed to say looking at Bliss and then at Hunter taking over applying pressure on the wound. “They’re in the second drawer next to the over hurry.”

Hunter was taken aback by Max’s declaration she had been so adamant that she wouldn’t sign yet she did when? Why had she played games with him at his office the other day about all of it? It all could have been avoided months ago if she just let all of them move on, instead they had been stuck with this mess. He saw her take over and numbly walked to the kitchen grabbing the sink for support as he reached for the drawer and grabbed the towels. What the fuck had he been thinking if Philip didn’t make it, eh shuddered knowing it would not sit well with the great Forbes Montgomery if he killed his son.

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