Page 82 of Roulette: The Madam

“You’re pathetic, Makai,” I groaned, returning all the personal space I’d taken from Malachi.

He was more like Chemistry than the others. He felt like home. His presence was comforting. His words were few but cut like knives. They were always truthful. And, it was hard to gauge if he was near the edge or at ease most days. He hid his emotions well.UntilAnna.

“Come here,jealous!”

“I’m not jealous, I’m just saying. I’m here, too.”

“And, I see you. I just– Malachi is different.”

“How?”

“Makai, come here.”

I wrapped my arms around him and pressed my lips against the side of his face. My red lip stain transferred onto his dark skin, leaving a mark.

“I’ve missed you, too.”

“What the fuck ever.”

“You could just say it instead of pouting because I’m loving on Malachi.”

“Fuck that fat head ass nigga and fuck you, too.”

I shook my head with a chuckle. “What are you doing here?”

“Whatever the fuck I want to be doing here.”

“Here we go–” I huffed.

“We’re here to make sure your day goes smoothly, Rou. And as an extra set of eyes to make sure that everyone at the round table means you and our brother well before you give out any tickets to see baby girl.”

Rome had landed two weeks ago and had already snagged a lead role atHuff Theater of Clarke. It wouldn’t be long before we were dressed in our best and cheering her on as the curtains lowered behind her. Rome’s talent was undeniable. So was her beauty, brain, and heart.

“An extra set of eyes.” I nodded, appreciating the gesture.

“And Glocks. And switches. And fists. And–”

“Eyes,” Malachi said again, disrupting the foolishness that was waiting at the back of Makai’s throat.

“Nigga, two eyes are enough. I’m not here to stare at niggas. I’m here to lay some shit down if need be.”

“There won’t be a need, Makai,” I assured him, heading toward my office. “I’ve vetted everyone coming through those doors. Sadly, only two will make it to see Rome. But, more importantly, will any of you?”

“Yes. Aeir and I will be in attendance. So will Milo and Nature.”

“Makai?”

“I’ll be there. I can’t tell you what time, but I’m coming to that boring ass shit.”

“Boring? Nigg–”

“Roulette, please don’t waste your breath.”

“She’s on her serious shit tonight,” Makai laughed, knowing he had one up on me.

Tonight was unlike the others. I had to keep my eyes and ears on point. Going toe to toe with him would have to wait. My mouth was as slick as his, but my words and my attention span were limited at the moment. I had to make sure I wasn’t sending my family back to St. Catana or passing along the culprit of their demise in our process.

“And is. Now leave me the fuck alone and be happy I had Manny let your thin ass in.”

---