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Authors: Darrien Lee

BOOK: The Last Chance
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From that moment on, their lives were never the same. Amanda loved Joe very much in spite of his shortcomings. He'd become a much better father after he had started his business, and Luke believed that money was the reason he was killed, especially since his business was doing so well.
Sadly, neither Luke nor his brothers could ever get anyone on the streets to come forward and tell them who killed their father. It remained a thorn in their side for years. One thing he always told his brothers was that Joe didn't die in vain. Their father's death was the reason they were determined to make the family business the huge success Joe had always envisioned.
 
 
Luke's cell phone rang, snapping him out of his trance. He stood and answered the phone as he gathered his thoughts and the paperwork. He'd done enough reminiscing for one day and needed to go home and get ready for the grand opening.
Chapter Twelve
Keilah found the perfect dress for the grand opening. It was a tea-length red halter dress with a plunging neckline. The three-inch-heeled Jimmy Choo sandals that adorned her feet made her appear even more statuesque than she was. Her hair was wavy and cascading down her back. As she sat there staring at herself in the mirror, she thought about Ramsey. Michael was in the shower so she picked up her cell phone and quickly dialed his number.
“Hello?” he answered
“Hey, Stone. What are you doing?”
“I'm getting ready to go to the firing range with some of the guys. What are you doing?” She fingered her hair and said, “Getting ready to go to the grand opening of the new casino.”
“That's great,” he replied. “I'm sure you'll have a good time.”
“Look, Ramsey, we didn't get to finish our conversation yesterday so I thought I would call and . . .” Ramsey stood up, pulled his gun out of his desk, and put it in his holster. “Now is not a good time. I'm on my way out, and so are you. We'll talk when you get back.”
Keilah could feel the stress in Ramsey's voice. She looked toward the bathroom door. “Maybe you're right.”
“Where's G. I. Joe?” he asked.
She solemnly replied, “In the shower.”
“You don't sound very excited about tonight. You should be bouncing off the walls. This is a big deal for your family.”
“I don't know what's wrong with me. I don't feel like myself at all.”
Ramsey became somewhat concerned as he walked down the hallway to the elevator and pushed the button. “You're not getting sick, are you?”
“I don't think so.”
Ramsey looked at his watch and said, “Well, don't overdo it tonight, and try to get some rest tomorrow, and maybe you'll feel better.”
She played with the links on her diamond bracelet and said, “I hope so.”
“Good. I can't wait to hear all about the grand opening. Now be careful, and I'll see you when you get back.”
Keilah bit down on her lower lip and said, “Ramsey?”
He stepped inside the elevator and pushed the button. “Yeah?”
“You be careful too. OK?”
Just hearing Keilah's voice made Ramsey's heart swell. “I will. Tell the family I said congratulations.”
“I will,” she replied before hanging up the telephone. As she sat there, she didn't realize just how long she'd been on the telephone nor that she no longer heard the shower running. When she turned around, Michael was standing right behind her, which startled her. “Michael, I didn't hear you come in here.”
He wrapped his arms around her waist and said, “That's obvious. How's Ramsey?”
“He's fine. Headed to the firing range,” she informed him.
He caressed her cheek and said, “Enough about Ramsey. You look beautiful, Keilah.”
“Thank you, Major. You're looking mighty handsome yourself. You dress fast.”
“I have to in my business,” he answered as he sat down on the edge of the bed and put on his shoes. He stood up and buckled his belt. Keilah made her way over to him and straightened his tie. He immediately ran his hands down her back, resting them on her hips. She looked into his eyes and smiled. “It's getting late, so we'd better get downstairs because the limo should be here at any minute.”
Keilah walked over and picked up her purse. “I'm ready if you are.” Michael took one last look in the mirror and said, “Let's go, sweetheart.”
The pair exited the room, and as soon as they entered the lobby, their limo pulled up in front of the hotel. Once outside, the chauffeur opened the door for them, and within seconds they were on their way. Keilah was unaware that she was in for the night of her life.
 
 
Ramsey and his friends, Ron and Bradford, made their way to the firing range. Once there, his friends noticed Ramsey's solemn mood. “Why are you so quiet?” Ron asked as he looked over at Ramsey.
Ramsey put the clip in his 9 mm and said, “I didn't know I was.”
Ron glanced over at Bradford, who was shaking his head.
Bradford asked, “Is everything OK at the office?”
Ramsey looked at Bradford and frowned. “Why are y'all asking me all these questions? I'm fine. Now, are we here to shoot or gossip?”
Ron laughed as he put his goggles and earmuffs on for protection. “You have to admit, bro, that you're not your normal upbeat self. You're acting like you've lost your best friend.”
Ramsey put his goggles and muffs on as well and said, “Maybe I have.”
Bradford sat his gun down and folded his arms. “What's really going on, Ramsey? You can talk to us.”
Ramsey took his earmuffs off and asked, “What did you say?”
“What's really going on? Did you and Keilah have a fight or something?”
“No, Keilah's in California visiting her family for the weekend.”
“Does this have something to do with Keilah?”
Ramsey was beginning to get irritated with Bradford's questions. “What makes you think this has something to do with Keilah?”
Bradford picked up his gun and said, “It's just a hunch. So, does it have something do with Keilah? You told me she was dating some guy in the military. Is everything going OK with them?”
“I guess. I don't ask her anything about him,” Ramsey replied.
Ron stepped in and asked, “Have you met him?”
“Yeah.”
“So what do you think about him?” Ron asked.
“I don't like him. OK? Are you happy now?” Ramsey blurted out.
Ron picked up his goggles and said, “Is that why you're in a funky mood?”
Ramsey didn't answer him at first. He sighed and said, “She took him to California with her to meet her brothers.”
Bradford studied Ramsey's facial expressions and could see he was struggling with their questions. He calmly said, “Look, bro, I know you care about Keilah. Hell, you might even love her, but until you admit it to yourself, nothing's going to change. You and Keilah have been friends for years now, and if you want to take things to the next level with her, just talk to her before you lose out. Keilah's a fine woman and if you feel about her the way I suspect, then I know it has to be killing you seeing her kicking it with another man.”
The threesome stood there in silence for a moment. Ramsey was the first to put on his earmuffs. Ron and Bradford slowly followed behind him. They went into their designated cubicles and started shooting at their intended targets. When their clips were empty, they pulled their cardboard targets in and inspected the results. All of them had done well, but it was Ramsey who had emptied his clip between the target's eyes and into the heart. Bradford took his protective muffs off and walked over to Ramsey's cubicle.
“Damn! That's some good shooting, Stone.”
Ramsey inspected the cardboard piece and said, “Thanks, Bradford.”
Bradford set his gun down and said, “Ramsey, I'm your boy and I know you better than anybody, so tell Keilah how you feel before she messes around and marrys that guy or something. I'd hate for you to miss out just because you're stubborn and proud.”
“What if she doesn't feel the same way I do?” Ramsey asked.
“You'll never know until you talk to her and find out,” Bradford added.
Ramsey ran his hands over his face and then said, “I need to come clean and tell you guys something, and you better not repeat it.”
“What is it?” Ron asked as he joined the pair.
Ramsey turned to them and said, “Keilah and I had a little thing going on for the past several months. It was supposed to be strictly physical, but things went a lot further than I expected.”
“What do you mean it was supposed to be strictly physical?” Ron asked.
Ramsey sighed and said, “Keilah wanted me to be there for her during what she called her ‘dry spell' until she met someone.”
Bradford stepped forward and asked, “When you say ‘be there for her,' you mean sexual, right?”
Ramsey put another clip in his gun and nodded.
“You lucky son of a bitch,” Bradford replied. “No wonder you're acting so weird. You should've known you wouldn't have been able to walk away from a woman like her without getting caught up. I ain't mad at you, though, because I'm sure I would be acting the same way or worse, especially since she's dating someone else now. I don't have to ask you if she was off da hook, do I?”
Ramsey looked at his two friends and said, “No, you don't. She's the most amazing woman I've ever been with. Because of her, I'm even thinking about turning in my player's card.”
Ron said, “I knew something was going on, because when I asked you to find out if Keilah would be interested in going out with me, you sort of frowned and squirmed in your seat. You're in love with her, aren't you?”
“I don't know,” Ramsey answered with frustration.
“What do you mean you don't know?” Bradford asked. “A man always knows.”
“I don't know,” Ramsey repeated in an elevated tone.
Bradford stepped to Ramsey and said, “A woman like Keilah would get me to the altar with no hesitation, and if you don't know whether or not you love her, something's wrong with you. All I'm going to say is if you're not sure about how you feel, you'd better figure it out and quick, because that soldier boy is pushing up on Keilah hard and fast. And you say he's out in Cali meeting the family? That's not good. You need to find out how she feels about you and fast,” Ron admonished.
All of them put their goggles on. Ron patted Ramsey on the shoulder and said, “I'm rooting for you, bro. It'll work out, so don't worry.”
“I'm rooting for you too,” Bradford added.
All three of them dropped the subject, went into their cubicles, and reloaded their weapons for another round of target firing. After leaving the firing range, they went to a nearby restaurant for dinner before going their separate ways. When Ramsey got home he thought about everything that his two best friends had said to him. Maybe they were right and he should sit down with Keilah and find out exactly how she felt.
Chapter Thirteen
Genesis paced back and forth in the front of the casino lobby. The casino was full of patrons, and the guest of honor was running late. He pulled his phone out of his pocket, pushed a button, and spoke into it. “Roman, did you call Keilah's cell?”
“Yeah, she said they were on their way.”
Genesis ran his hand over his head nervously.
“Hell, that was twenty minutes ago,” Roman continued. “You know how long it takes Keilah to get dressed. Maybe she wanted to make a grand entrance.”
“Whatever, y'all better get down here before she gets here.”
“Chill, Genesis. We're on our way.”
While Genesis waited for his brothers, he checked in with security. Minutes later, Malachi, Luke, and Roman turned the corner, and they all walked outside onto the red carpet to greet their beloved sister. Seconds later, her limo pulled up and came to a stop.
The brothers' hearts swelled with pride when they saw her step out of the car. She was absolutely beautiful and looked exactly like their mother. Roman had arranged for a videographer and photographer to capture the moment Keilah saw the casino. They were secure in knowing she wouldn't realize it was named in honor of her until the right moment. Michael stepped out of the limo and stood beside her. Both of them were taken aback by all the lights and flashing of the cameras. Patrons and spectators watched as the handsome Chance brothers met their sister on the red carpet.
“Oh my God. This is beautiful. I had no idea it was going to look like this,” Keilah said.
Luke kissed her, and with tears in his eyes, smiled. “Welcome to the Special K Casino, sis.”
She tilted her head and looked at him in confusion. Luke pointed upward toward the marquee. Michael and Keilah looked up and saw the name of the casino in lights. Michael embraced her and pulled her close. “Baby, what an honor.”
Keilah looked up at the glittering sign and tears immediately ran down her face. She jumped into the arms of her brothers with total excitement. “I don't believe you guys. I love it. Thank you so much.”
Roman took her arm and twirled her around for the cameras. “You haven't seen anything yet, little sis,” he said.
Luke put his hands up to get his siblings' attention and motioned for their wives to join them. “Wait, guys. There's something Keilah has to do before we go in, and we have to get pictures first. Come on, Michael. You stand next to Keilah.”
Michael took his position next to Keilah, and the brothers stood behind them along with the women in their lives. One of the casino employees brought over a pair of gigantic scissors as two others stretched out a large yellow ribbon in front of the doors. Keilah did the honor of cutting the ribbon to officially open the Special K Casino. There was thunderous applause as the ribbon was cut, after which Keilah greeted the rest of her family members before walking through the doors.
Once inside, Keilah was again in awe. She immediately noticed the feminine touch to the décor. She turned to her brothers and dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief Michael had given her.
Luke smiled and gave her a loving hug. “You like?”
“I love it. You guys are amazing. I couldn't love you any more than I already do. I just wish Momma and Daddy could've lived to see this.”
Malachi stepped forward and also hugged her. “Don't worry, sis. I have no doubt they're both looking down on us right now.”
Genesis took a call over his phone and then interrupted them. “Hey, guys, everything's set up in the conference room.”
“What about my tour?” Keilah asked.
Roman took her by the arm and led her toward an elevator. “First things first, baby girl.”
They all piled into the elevator and watched as Luke slid a key into the special lock on the panel. Within seconds they stepped out onto a private floor above the casino. The entire family entered the room, which was filled with balloons, an assortment of food, and plenty of Cristal. Luke and Genesis popped a couple of bottles of the champagne and poured the clear liquid into everyone's glasses. Luke held his glass high and spoke softly.
“Tonight, we are one as a family, the way it was always meant to be. Tonight we reached another milestone by opening the Special K Casino in honor of our only sister, Keilah Chance. Keilah, we never doubted for one second that you would grow up to be a young woman who would touch the lives of many people; however, you have touched our lives more. That's why we wanted to show you our love by giving you the Special K Casino so you'll know just how much you mean to us. This casino is for you and your heirs, and we want you to make sure it is passed down for generations to come. Joe Chance had a vision for his children a long time ago that was on its way to becoming a reality when his life was cut short. We have been blessed to make sure his vision became a reality twice over. Tonight we raise our glasses to toast in honor of you and the memory of our father and mother, Joe and Amanda Chance.”
There wasn't a dry eye in the room. Even the brothers found it hard to control their emotions. After comforting and congratulating each other, the family members enjoyed delicious chilled shrimp, mini quiche, and many other delicacies before Malachi and Luke gave Keilah the grand tour of her very own casino while Michael, Roman, Genesis and some of the other family members continued to celebrate upstairs.
The tour of the casino amazed Keilah beyond her wildest dreams. She was especially impressed that her brothers incorporated businesses within the casino that she loved as well as most women did. This was their ingenious concept to cater to female patrons, which in turn would bring in more male patrons. As they walked the floor of the casino, men and women alike praised the facility for its exceptional service and unique amenities. The men loved it because if the women in their lives were not into gambling, they could get pampered in the salon or spa, or shop in the shoe store or boutique.
As the group continued through the casino, they recognized some local entrepreneurs and professional athletes as they enjoyed the facility. They also noticed that some of the city's known street pharmacists were also part of the grand-opening crowd. Minutes later, they came face to face with the last person they wanted to see: Keytone and his two associates.
“Well, well, well, I see the Chance brothers have done it again. Congratulations,” Keytone said as he held his hand out and waited for Luke to shake it.
Luke stared at Keytone and shoved his hands inside his pockets.
“Ah, come on, Luke. Can't you give your homeboy some love?” Keytone asked.
Malachi attempted to step forward, but Keilah discreetly grabbed his arm, stopping him. The last thing she wanted was to have her homecoming turn into an all-out brawl. Luke looked around before stepping closer to Keytone. “Keytone, this is a respectable business, and I won't have it tarnished by you or anyone like you.”
“Come on, Luke. I'm just here to congratulate you on your new casino. You know we go way back. That has to count for something even though you guys ran out on me, but I'm willing to let the past stay in the past.”
“I hope you mean that, Keytone,” Luke responded.
Keytone looked over Luke's shoulder and spotted Keilah. “Keilah Chance, what a nice surprise. You're looking fabulous as ever.”
Keilah stared back at Keytone and smiled. “Thank you.”
He smiled and asked, “So, how's the bodyguard business doing?”
“It's doing well, Keytone,” she replied with pride. “Thanks for asking.”
Keytone smiled with admiration. “I'm sure you're good at what you do. It's not like you haven't had some great guidance from your brothers. But from where I'm standing, it looks like you're the one who needs guarding. You've grown up into a beautiful woman, Keilah, and I'm happy to see a hometown girl do well.”
She lowered her head and blushed. “I appreciate that, Keytone.”
Luke turned and noticed that Malachi was getting agitated with the conversation, so he felt he'd better hurry up and end it before things got out of hand. When the rest of the brothers along with Michael arrived on the scene, Luke knew he had to defuse the situation immediately.
“Look, Keytone, we all know Keilah has grown up, and we're also proud of her accomplishments. I just want to make sure we understand each other, and I want you to stay away from her. Do you feel me?”
Keytone put a toothpick in his mouth and laughed. He was notorious on the streets, but he knew the brothers were just being protective and this wasn't the time to challenge them.
“I see you guys haven't changed a bit. Still treating little Keilah like she's a baby.”
Malachi couldn't take it anymore. He stepped forward and yelled at Keytone. “Keilah has sense enough not to waste a minute of her time with someone like you.”
Keytone shoved his hands into his pockets and laughed even louder. “You know, it hasn't been that long ago that you guys begged me for a job and I helped you guys out. You seem a little ungrateful to me, but that's okay. Look, I'm cool with you guys, but for some reason you have a problem with me. Now if you don't mind, the poker table is calling my name. Keilah, it's good seeing you again, and good luck with your business.”
She nodded without speaking, and they all watched as Keytone and his associates made their way toward the poker tables. Malachi sighed as the rest of the Chance brothers, except for himself and Luke, dissipated into the crowd. Luke took Keilah by the arm and attempted to lead her across the room. “Come on, let's finish your tour.”
She pulled away from him and looked at Malachi. “Why do y'all always have to embarrass me like that? Keytone was right. You guys act like I'm still a little girl needing your protection. I wish you would stop treating me like a child.”
Malachi grabbed her by the shoulders and turned her toward him. “Keilah, Keytone is dangerous, and you can't take your eyes off him for a second. We used to work for him, so we know what we're talking about.”
Keilah couldn't believe her ears. She pulled away from Malachi and asked, “Have you ever heard of people changing?”
Malachi and Luke were stunned. Malachi gave her a look that could kill. “Have you lost your damn mind? We know him better than anyone, and believe me, he hasn't changed.”
“But what if he has, Malachi?”
Luke put his hands up to diffuse the situation. “Keilah, stop yelling. Look, you have to understand that we saw things, unpleasant things, when we were associated with Keytone, and that's a life we don't want any part of ever again.”
She folded her arms and let out a breath. “That was a long time ago, Luke.”
Luke and Malachi stared at her in amazement. They were shocked to hear Keilah defend Keytone after everything they'd told her about him. Unbeknownst to them, she knew a different side to Keytone, a side that she had been familiar with since she was a little girl. Yes, she'd seen his police record and read the newspaper articles, but he had never been convicted of any of the things he'd been accused of.
Luke sighed and said, “Let's all calm down. This is supposed to be a happy occasion. Malachi, we'll keep our eye on Keytone like we've always done. Keilah, stop acting so god-damn defiant. We know you can take care of yourself, but don't for one second think you're invincible or that Keytone has changed his ways.”
She lowered her head and sighed. “I'm sorry. I just hate to see you guys carry around so much anger for one person, and I don't mean to give you a hard time.”
Luke took her by the hand and smiled. “Apology accepted. Now come on. Let's gamble and have some fun.”
Malachi was still angry that Keilah would defend someone like Keytone, and just as he followed the pair around the corner, he noticed another familiar face looking their way. He tapped Luke on the shoulder to get his attention. “Luke, is that X and his crew?”
Luke stared across the room in the direction of the young man, then turned away. “Yeah, that's him.”
Keilah followed Malachi's gaze curiously. “Who's X?”
As they walked off together, Luke sighed before responding. “His name is Xavier, but he's known as X on the street. His dad and Joe were friends, but he's just another thug trying to make a name for himself. He usually hangs out at a railyard on the outskirts of town. I think his family has some businesses out there.”
Keilah looked back over her shoulder at the young man who held up his drink and winked at her from across the room.
 
 
It was nearly 3:00
A.M.
when Keilah and Michael called it a night. It had been a night of fun and gambling, and now they were exhausted. They said their good-byes to the rest of the family and climbed inside the limo for the ride back to their hotel. Unbeknownst to the pair, their every move was being tracked.

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