Page 122 of The Alpha

“Your turn, Melvale,” Pari said. She set the dice in front of him.

He looked at her, his face full of wonder, picked up the dice and rolled.

“Doubles,” Uncle Al said. “Some people have all the luck.”

Melvale moved his little silver thimble and landed on the jail square. “Oh look, I’ve come to visit the incarcerated.”

Kwaku growled at him.

Pari nudged him in the arm with her elbow. “You get to roll again.”

“Judging from the look on the jailbird’s face,” Leo said. “You’d better roll fast.”

Melvale snatched up the dice and rolled again. “Three.” He moved his piece before Kwaku could flick it across the room with his fingers.

“Rent!” Leo shouted. “Pay up!”

Melvale smiled at Pari, counted out his play money and handed it to Leo. He winked at her, and his heart skipped when she blushed. So, this is what Kwaku was talking about. She was comfortable with this sort of activity and enjoying herself. This meant he needed to plan a date involving some sort of play. But what?

“It is your turn, Kawahnee,” Zara said.

“Is that a nickname?” Leo asked.

“Of sorts,” Zara said. “Where we come from, names are very important and can have different meanings. Kawahnee is only allowed to be used by those closest to him. One must earn the right to call him by that name.”

Pari looked at Melvale. “What do you call him?”

His eyes flicked to Kwaku and Zara and back. “By his first name, Kwaku.”

“So, you haven’t made the special list?” Leo teased.

Kwaku smiled and shook the dice in his hand. “He may call me such if he wishes.” Kwaku looked Melvale in the eyes. “He has more dan earned de right.” He threw the dice.

“Snake eyes!” Al said. “Lucky you, you got out of jail.”

Kwaku grinned. “Of course I did.” He moved his little silver car.

“Rent!” Leo chortled.

Kwaku growled at him. “You are a greedy landowner.”

“I’ve had lots of practice,” Leo shot back. “Now pay up.”

Al laughed. “Can you tell who collects the rent around here?”

Pari giggled and nudged Melvale’s leg with her knee. “Would anyone like some popcorn if I make it?”

Her uncles raised their hands. “Thanks, Pairwink,” Al said. “I could use a little break. I’ll melt the butter.” He left the table and headed for the kitchen.

Melvale watched Pari rise from her chair. “Do you need any help?” he asked.

“Nah, we got this.” She looked at him, a happy smile on her face. “Be right back.”

He watched her go and sighed in contentment.

“So,” Leo drawled as soon as she disappeared into the kitchen. He gave Melvale the eye. “Tell me, son. What are your intentions toward my niece?”

Kwaku took one look at Melvale, then Leo, and burst into laughter.

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