"Frio Verana: Part 2"

Chapter 1

Scene 1

(48 hours later. Jamal was sat in his cell. He hadn't eaten since his arrest, he looked and smelled like death. He refused a change of clothes and the opportunity to shower. He even refused the chance to speak to a lawyer. All he was worried about was getting contact with Lara and Zack. He spoke to Lara a few times, she was shaken up a bit but she seemed OK considering what happened. Zack was the same, he just wanted to see his Daddy as soon as possible. At around 9.52am he could hear footsteps leading to his cell. He looked up and saw Adam with some people dressed in suits. Two black officers and a small Chinese lady he had never seen before. She looked very formal, she wore a brown suit and had a thick leather briefcase.)

Leah: Jamal Joseph, you are free to go.

Jamal: And who the hell are you?

Leah: I'm Leah, the lady who worked with your friend Adam here to get your ass out. You are free, this isn't a trick. All you need to do is put a statement and-

Jamal: Relax, I'm a fed too, I know how this works. Or have you forgotten what I do?

Leah: Nobody in Spanish Harlem will forget you any time soon Mr. Joseph. (She cracked a smile and nodded her head as the police officers opened the cell.)

Jamal: Thanks.

(Jamal took Adam into one of the quiet rooms and he sat him down and broke down the sequence of events which led up to the incident.)

Adam: You think it's them? Or whoever was behind Smokey?

Jamal: I'm telling you, I've shaken up a lot of operations around town, this was clearly the biggest one. It must have hurt somebody bigger and they are now looking at me as a target.

Adam: Why didn't they take Zack? They could have killed your whole family-

Jamal: It's a message. This guy is basically saying, don't play with me.

Adam: This is insane, we need to get F.B.I involved.

Jamal: No, we can't get anyone from the bureau involved.

Adam: Jamal! Are you crazy?? They just ran in your house! What if he or them or whoever these people are target everybody else that helped bring down Smokey. F.B.I have the brains and the resources to hunt these people down.

Jamal: Look, I had to get informants to help with bringing down Smokey. F.B.I have been working on several big drug cases in Harlem but how far have they got with any of them huh? You tell me. They do a half assed job most of the time.

Adam: So what do we do? Follow up with the feds and investigators here?

Jamal: I don't know what the next play is, right now I need to check on my family. 

Adam: You good? That must have been terrifying.

Jamal: I'm ok for now, I just need to see Zack and get my head straight.

Adam: If you need anything let me know.

End Scene

Scene 2

(Jamal arrived at Lara's home at 12.30pm Henry answered the door. Henry was a bit taller than Jamal. They had a very cordial relationship, there never was really any bad blood between them, maybe some awkwardness but nothing crazy. They shook hands and Jamal walked in. A few feds were sat around the table with Lara and they asked her questions. Zack ran to Jamal and Jamal held him close. He felt waves of joy fill his body.)

Zack: Daddy are you ok? My Daddy stopped the bad men taking me.

Jamal: I'm always there for you kiddo.

Lara: Go upstairs Zack, the grown ups are talking.

(The feds all stared at Jamal, he was certainly well known.)

Catherine: Mr. Joseph, I hope you are ok and I'm sorry about the mix up you had here, I scolded some of the officers that were on that job. They should have known better.

Jamal: Mistakes happen, nothing personal. (Jamal shrugged).

Catherine: You are welcome to join us. Your statement got faxed to us already but if there is anything you want to say let me know. There have been a flurry of burglaries in the neighbourhood as of late.

Jamal: Naw, I got nothing to say. Carry on as you were I'll be with Zack in his room. (Jamal and Zack went upstairs where they played and watched movies until the feds started to leave. Catherine came upstairs. She put her head through the door and walked in.)

Catherine: Look Jamal, I'm sorry about what happened here.

Jamal: Look, these things happen.

Catherine: I know-

Jamal: Burglaries happen all the time, Thankfully nobody got hurt.

Catherine: Except they didn't steal anything. Everything is still intact. They didn't even kick the door open, they picked the lock. It seemed very well planned. We  haven't found any prints or DNA anywhere. The men wore black masks, Henry and Lara are unable to I.D any of them-

Jamal: With all due respect, I'm with my son right now.

Catherine: Sorry, but if you need anything just hit us up.

Jamal: Thanks.

(After a while Jamal and Zack came downstairs. He went into the garden with Henry, Lara was sat on the table with a cup of tea. Jamal sat opposite her.)

Jamal: You ok?

(Lara stared outside the window and sipped quietly. She nodded her head.)

Jamal: Look I know you must be a bit shaken up but I promise the feds will investigate it and find out who is responsible.

Lara: Do you think I was born yesterday?

(Jamal looked shocked.)

Jamal: What?

Lara: You think I don't know why this happened? Why this happened to me and Zack?

Jamal: Look, I don't know what you think this is but-

Lara: You take down a big crew and all of a sudden people are breaking into the home of your son and baby mother? I'm no investigator but any dummy can put two and two together. Those officers sat here for 4 hours talking about burglaries and that we should install a security system but I played dumb because I knew what the truth was.

Jamal: Listen to me, I do my best to help and I always keep Zack safe-

Lara: Well this time you over did it and you pissed somebody off and now look!

Jamal: Listen Lara-

Lara: No you listen! You want to be the hero and help everybody that's fine, that is good for you. You are helping the community but you are putting my son in danger.

Jamal: Our son-

Lara: Look I won't tell you again. We will carry on as normal you will keep getting your visits I have no problem with that but if I sniff any more trouble you will never see him again.

(She got up and opened the door for Jamal. He looked at her sadly and walked out.) 

End Scene

Scene 3

(A week had passed since he spoke to Lara. He now made a conscious effort to Zack more than usual. Seeing him on the week-ends was not enough. He even cut his hours down at the district. He wanted to make sure he was around Zack as much as possible. He had barely spoken to Melanie, she texted him a few times since the episode to check if he was ok. He hadn't seen her since he went to see her that night. He sat in the cafe drinking his coffee, it was midday and there was hardly anybody inside there, just a few builders on break. The door opened and some bells jingled, Jamal looked up and Melanie walked in. She wore jeans and flip flops, she had her hair tied back. She sat in front of Jamal and took off her sun glasses revealing her deep beautiful eyes. On this occasion she wore hardly any make up but she looked as good as ever.)

Melanie: You've lost weight Sir. I hope you are not starving yourself to death.

Jamal: I haven't had much of an appetite these days.

Melanie: You mean since Lara's house got busted into. 

Jamal: Well-

Melanie: Look, you gotta look after yourself sweetie and stay focused.

(Jamal broke down the events leading up to the break in. Melanie stayed fairly calm during his story. A little too calm for Jamal, he was expecting her to be shocked.)

Jamal: You don't seem surprised.

Melanie: Me? I'm a judge, I see messy things like this everyday.

Jamal: That is true I guess, I've never had this-

Melanie: Look Jamal, you have to stay focused and I don't think me and you is gonna work with all this stuff hanging over your head.

Jamal: What?

Melanie: What I'm trying to say is, we gotta stop this, everything.

Jamal: Melanie I can't believe you are doing this? I need you.

Melanie: I have always been there for you but this time, its too much, you said those guys knew where I live. I have a son and a husband. Granted my husband is an asshole but if something happened to him I couldn't live with myself.

Jamal: I don't believe you would do this to me.

(Melanie got up and put her glasses on and walked out.)

Jamal: SO YOU JUST GONNA LEAVE ME OUT HERE?

Melanie: Goodbye Mr. Joseph.

(She walked out the door.)

End Scene

Scene 4

(It had been a week since he had heard from Melanie. Jamal felt rotten, he didn't think about the possibility of getting her or her family in trouble. He had accepted that he had been naive in his dealings with her. The fact that she was a respected judge and having an affair with a black man was enough to assassinate her whole character. But he couldn't help it, he was weak for her. And right now he still wasn't completetly safe. he couldn't shake the feeling that somebody or something still had him on their radar. He hopped out of his car and walked to Lara's house. He sent Melanie one last message "Can we talk baby?Please! I miss you so much!". His stomach rumbled, since the burglary happened he had lost his appetite, even more so with Melanie leaving him. He planned to take Zack to Chuckie Cheese. As he walked to the house he noticed both cars were not in the drive way and the lights were off. This alarmed Jamal and he reached for his gun. He looked around and couldn't hear or say anything. Lara never gave him a spare key so he couldn't go inside for himself. He looked under the plant pot and under the rug. He couldn't find anything. He felt his phone vibrate, he breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Lara's name come up.)

Lara: Hey Jamal. Look I want to be very honest with you. We don't feel safe in the neighbourhood anymore, we don't feel safe with you being around Zack. We certainly don't feel safe with you coming over to our place at all. I know it's worked well in the last few weeks with Zack but long term it just doesn't feel safe. Me and Henry have decided to leave. I will update you about Zack. There no need to find us. I will be changing my number, no need to bother finding us we will be OK. 

(Jamal went on his knees and burst into tears in front of the house.)

Scene 5

(Jamal sat in Adam's apartment slumped on his sofa with his head in his hands. He was downtrodden and angry.)

Adam: You want a can buddy?

Jamal: Sure, why not. (Adam throws him a can of beer.)

Adam: You look like shit, and smell like shit too.

Jamal: Shut up. 

Adam: I can't believe she did that. I mean she seemed like a stand up lady. She knew you always did your best by your son.

Jamal: It's my fault, its always been my fault. She has always tried to tell me but I didn't listen. I should have just left it alone.

Adam: NO WAY!

Jamal: It's true man, I try to play hero too much.

Adam: Look, you've only done your job, you only have to look to the people of Spanish Harlem to see all the good you've done. You stood up to these low lives when others wouldn't do it.

Jamal: Now I've lost my family, was it worth it? If I'm not working hard to feed and support my kid then what am I doing it for? For glory?

Adam: Don't beat yourself up man. This ain't over, this is how it goes sometimes.

End Scene.

Scene 6

The following day...

(Jamal pulled up to work. He grabbed a cup of coffee from the pop up stall. He was still struggling to sleep but he knew he had to be alert. There were numerous cases he had to deal with and he still had the matter of his family at the back of his head. He walked briskly into the building and ignored the stares. He knew he looked a mess but he was still alert and ready to work. He walked into the conference room. A group of hired private investigators from Houston and California were huddled together. They were looking up some child kidnapping cases. Jamal was tied down with the smokey case so he wasn't able to help out with this but he was now ready. He nodded and shook their hands. As they were about to take their seats the Guvnor walked in. Charles Davenport. A large African American gentleman. He served in Vietnam and he was head of a prison in New York. One of his eyes was grey and the other was brown.  He was very round and walked with a waddle. He had a warm heart, and he was dedicated to serving Spanish Harlem.)

Charles: Jamal! Before you sit your black ass down I would like to have a word with you Sir! 

Jamal: Sir, I haven't been briefed about this next project, I wanted to make sure I was up to speed-

Charles: Did I ask you or tell you champ? Haha

(Jamal slowly got up and walked through the door Charles had left open for him. He followed Charles into his office and sat down. Charles sat across him smiling, showing his crooked white teeth. He adored Jamal for all the work he had put in.)

Charles: You know me Jamal, I don;t bullshit people. I call it how it is.

Jamal: Yes Guvnor.

Charles: And you know that's the foundation of our relationship right?

Jamal: That is true indeed. So whilst we are here being honest, stop bullshitting me and tell me why you called me in here?

Charles: Because I don't think you are on your A game. I think that your mind isn't focused enough to get in the game.

Jamal: What? I know im going through a rough patch, but like you always say God gives his toughest battles to his strongest soliders-

Charles: Look I have to look at the facts and assess the situation and my conclusion is that some of these upcoming cases are very sensitive and require a lot of focus. One mistake and we are out of the game.

Jamal: I know, that's why you brought me here right? Half these sons of bitches couldn't crack any of these damn cases-

Charles: Look bwoi, I like you, I like you a lot but don't puff out your chest and knock others that have also helped you.

Jamal: I'm sorry, its just-

Charles: Look, this isn't about sorry. I know your family have left, and I know you think that some people are after you. And I don't think that is impossible but right now I cant afford any slip ups. I am laying you off indefinitely. You aren't sacked or dismissed for good, its just-

(Jamal got up and walked to the door. His body was trembling with rage.)

Charles: Don't walk out on me!

Jamal: Screw you Charles.

Charles: I'm trying to help you!

Jamal: have a nice day sir.

(Jamal left the room and slammed the door.)

End Scene

"Frio Verana : Part 1"

Frio Verana

Chapter 1

Scene 1

(The year was 2005, Spanish Harlem was buzzing. Jamal walked through the dance floor by himself. The music was bumping through the speakers. It was a typical Friday night in Spanish Harlem. NORE's 'Nothin' was bumping through the speakers. The club slowly started to get packed. The crowd was very mixed, different races and different ages.  He got to the bar and ordered his usual. Double rum with pineapple juice and a shot of tequila. At the bar a tall dark skinned woman eyed him up. She had long dark hair. She was a beauty, with a slim, athletic build, her high heels emphasised her thighs. Jamal couldn't hide his interest, he couldn't help looking in her direction. To his surprise she turned and walk towards him quite confidently.)

Jamal: Hello ma'am. You are looking marvellous. What is your name? What's a pretty thing like you doing in a place like Spanish Harlem?

Crystal: The name is Crystal and a good time brought me to Spanish Harlem, I'm out with my girls, one of them is moving to Australia for a year so we came out to give her a proper send off. 

Jamal: I have always wanted to go out there.

Crystal: So what is stopping you?

Jamal: hmmm...life.

Crystal: Life is what you make it baby boy. (She stroked his hand and rubbed his beard with her other hand. Jamal was just about as tall as her and he was just as dark. He was well built, he previously played American football before quitting. He was still in good shape.)

Jamal: I guess so miss but my job keeps me occupied.

Crystal: Hmmm what is it you do? Secret agent?

Jamal: haha! Close enough, I'm a cop and private investigator.

Crystal: Oh, so you in here for business or pleasure?

Jamal: I'm under investigation now?

Crystal : Yes. (She leant in and whispered in his ear) I want to use your handcuffs on you Mr.

Jamal: Damn, are forward for real or maybe you are all talk?.

Crystal: Quit playing boy.

(Jamal finished his drink and shot. He looked across the room and saw Freddy come in with a couple of his goons. Freddy was short and skinny, he had a light brown complexion. His hair was in twists like Coolio. They went straight into V.I.P. He turned to Crystal and pulled her in close.)

Jamal: (Whispers) Hold that thought.

(Jamal watched the men filter into the V.I.P. section. Freddy was one of the dope boys in the hood. He had a good relationship with Jamal. Jamal wasn't a crooked cop, he knew he couldn't make too many enemies in the city. He had to pick his battles and at the same time he had to show who was boss. A very thin line but Jamal had always known how to tip toe around it. The DJ switched the track. The Lox "Wild Out" blew through the speakers, the joint became way more energetic. Jamal two stepped to the beat. He was in Freddy's eye line, he caught eyes with him. Jamal raised up his shirt to show his 38 on his belt, and he winked at Freddy. Freddy kissed his teeth and shook his head in annoyance. Jamal walked over to the V.I.P section where Freddy and his crew were. He walked up to the bouncer who slid in front of him abruptly. A very tall and broad shouldered Brazilian man. Jamal had seen him throw out many people from the club. Just like Uncle Phil throwing out Jazzy Jeff.)

The Lox: WILD OUT!!! WILD OUT!!!

Bouncer: Whoa, slow down home boy, where you going?

Jamal: To say hi to my buddy. I come with good tidings.

Bouncer: I've never seen you roll with Freddy's crew, you a reject or something?

Jamal: Step aside boozoo-

Freddy: Yo chill my nigga! You ain't got to give my guy no attitude!

Jamal: Tell your guy to stop asking me questions.

(Freddy signalled to Jamal to come inside the area, Jamal shook his head.)

Jamal: Naw, you come outside my nigga, we need to talk.

(Freddy gulped and nodded at his goons. Jamal let him out and they went through the back door. They ended up behind the kitchens in some alleyway. They alley was illuminated by the light coming from the kitchen windows. Jamal strode forward and Freddy walked timidly behind him. Jamal turned around swiftly and grabbed him by the throat. He held him up against the wall.)

Jamal: Freddy! My guy! I should have snatched you up that time huh? Is this how you repay me?

Freddy: WHAT?

Jamal: The night I caught you and your boys bringing the drugs through? I let you go and this is the thanks I get huh? Have you forgotten our deal? I should have busted you all, all of you should be in the box now!

Freddy: What's the problem man? I ain't done nothing?

Jamal: What?

Freddy: You want money? We got lots of it, I can cut you some cake.

Jamal: I don't want your stinking money! I've never taken cash from you, why would I now??

Freddy: Please get off me, lets talk.

Jamal: I told you, I will let you keep dealing but no kids! You selling dope to kids? I will turn your ass in bwoi! I'll make sure they send you to Rikers island, I heard they love pretty boys.

Freddy: Look man I ain't deal nothing to no kids, it's just a few shipments in and out of Spanish
Harlem. I have some dealings with China town. I just move work here and there, then we split the profit. I don't do no shit with no kids. I swear Jamal please! I don't know anything!

Jamal: I swear I will-

Freddy- That is the set up I promise you!

(Jamal let him go, Freddy was gasping for breath and was coughing.)

Freddy: God damn you nigga, whats your problem?

Jamal: Some young kids were involved in a shoot out. Something drug related. One of the kids is a family friend. He's 17 years old shooting at some older heads in broad day.

Freddy: You know these boys stupid, whats that got to do with me?

Jamal: You sure?

Freddy: I'm sure, I know there were some problems in China town but it's all in house.

Jamal: Well this a young boy, he's a good kid, he plays soccer. He's going places, I don't know how he got a gun in his hands, let alone let it off in broad day. Luckily there was only one witness that won't come forward and no CCTV. Feds gonna drop it, they don't care about niggas shooting at other niggas.

Freddy: I'm sure you can get the dogs to stop sniffing around that.

Jamal: I can do somewhat.

Freddy: For the record, some of these young boys don't care bro, no code, no respect, they don't know nothing. You can't help everybody.

Jamal: Look-

Freddy: I didn't mean no offence, this is just facts.

Jamal: We will see.

Freddy: It's a dirty game, I'm trying to get out and clean my money. Get involved in some real estate.

Jamal: You better start reading some books.

Freddy: I will pay some people to do that.

Jamal: You might learn something.

Fredy: Lemme get this cash up first bro, let me go man, these hoes inside getting cold without me.

Jamal: I got my eyes on you bro, and just to let you know there is a detective in there watching you and your goons. I would advise you not to act like you are in Cash Money every single Friday. If they get on your ass then I can't help.

Freddy: Who?

Jamal: Sexy dark skinned black queen. Her name is Crystal, she has done under cover work before, she knows her stuff, but she think she's better than what she is. My advice find a new joint.

Freddy: Damn, imagine we let shawty in V.I.P?!

Jamal: I'm out, clean up your mess because I ain't cleaning nothing.

End Scene

Chapter 2

(It was 2.42pm. Jamal pulled up to the drive. He squeezed by the range rover parked outside Lara's house. The same routine twice a month. The front door opened and Zack ran outside the house. Zack was 5 years old. He loved his father dearly. He had the same complexion as his father, same eyes, same nose. It had been 2 years since the divorce. Lara re-married within a year of them splitting. Married to some snobby white man called Henry. But Jamal knew it was his fault, he was in too deep with the work demands. He was travelling state to state helping people with cases. Whilst he was solving crimes across the country his family and marriage was falling apart brick by brick. Lara had an affair with Henry in the last year of their marriage. At first Jamal was vehemently against the divorce. He was prepared to over look the cheating but he eventually let it go. Too much arguing in front of Zack and with other family members sticking their noses in, it just got messy. Lara strode outside, she had a caramel complexion, she wore her long natural hair. She still had the same confidence from when he first met her, still radiant as ever. He always felt conflicted seeing her, at times he would miss her. Other times he simply hated her, but he treated it as a job, he was completely professional. Sent her cheques for child support every month. He made sure to always send more than what she asked for, it was a pride thing. He didn't want his son to go without but more importantly he didn't want Lara and Henry to think he was a bum. )

Zack: Daddy can we go to the park? I got a new basketball!

Jamal: Hey big man! You gonna be the next Michael Jordan, let Daddy teach you some moves!

Zack: Cool!

Lara: Hey.

Jamal: Whats up?

Lara: I'm ok, just working and working, you know how it is. Zack keeping us busy as well.

Jamal: He's got a lot of energy.

Lara: Yes he does, and oh he's got a new asthma pump. (Lara passed him a small green pouch with the asthma pump.)

Jamal: Cool. Where's Henry?

Lara: He's in the back doing some gardening.

Jamal: Ight, tell him I said hi.

Lara: I will.

Jamal: Well I figured since there is a fair I could take Zack for an extra day. Is that cool?

Lara: Umm yeah sure.

Jamal: See you Tuesday.

Zack: Daddy lets goooo!

End Scene

Chapter 3

(The fair was buzzing. Kids squeeling could be heard across the fair ground along with the music coming from the machines and different rides. A lot of people were dressed up in costumes. Zack and Jamal had spent the whole day there, it was getting close to Zack's bedtime but Jamal was a bit more lenient with the bedtime. He knew that Zack would be out like a light as soon as they got back to the car.)

Zack: Daddy one more time please!

Jamal: You sure? You gonna get dizzy and get a headache spinning on that thing.

Zack: I'll be fine its not the fastest one! It's not too bad! Come on daddy please!

Jamal: IGHT!

(Zack skipped to the gate just as one of the staff members was going to close it. He hopped in the seat and buckled up on the little choo choo train. Jamal chuckled at Zack's surprised facial expression as the ride took off. Jamal felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned around slowly, and it was Alejandro. He wore a long dark jacket with cowboy boots. He had olive skin and a long moustache. He looked quite comedic looking so serious in such an environment. He had his hands tucked in his deep pockets.)

Jamal: You got what I need? You got 30 seconds. My kid don't need to see you bro, no offence.

(Alejandro passed him a note and nodded his head.)

Alejandro: This is it pal, this is what I heard about how it went down.

Jamal: I know how it went down I want to know WHO is responsible.

(Alejandro was an informant. He was deep into narcotics on the Westside and got into a mess there. He since moved to Spanish Harlem and set up shop then but he ended up getting set up by some of his connects. He ended up doing some time but he struck a deal with the feds, provided he gave up information which got several members of an Italian cartel locked up. . The feds were after Alejandro for a long time and still wanted to get him done for at least 7 years despite snitching but Jamal promised to get Alejandro's time in jail shortened.J amal oversaw the operation that got Alejandro caught but he knew that he was key in bringing the cartel down. Jamal was having an affair with the judge that presided over that specific case. Melanie Meadow was in her mid forties and was one of the toughest judges in the whole of New York but she had a soft spot for Jamal. She was weak at the knees for him but Jamal rarely took any favours from her. When the case was over Alejandro got a year in a correctional facility and with the option of parole. Once he was out he used whatever dirty money he had left and put some in off shore accounts and he bought a coffee shop and renovated it. He still had one or two street ties but he was no longer active. But always gave Jamal information he needed.)

Alejandro: It was was not easy getting this information-

Jamal: WHO was responsible?

Alejandro: Who? How? What? Does it matter? People got shot at that is all I know, besides it's not safe knowing so much. Knowledge isn't always power.

(Jamal opened the note and read it it read 'Smokey's crew, located on 25th Av Spanish Harlem'. He nodded at Alejandro and he left him. So it wasn't Freddy's crew that was involved. It was a new crew, young crew. More dangerous and more reckless.)

Chapter 4

(Tuesday morning 7.30a.m Jamal carried Zack from the car. He was still knocked out cold. . He went back to the car to retrieve all the things they won in the fair and put them on the sofa. He nodded at Lara and went straight down to the District office. He knew it was game time. He licked his lips, he got a high from investigations. It was simply in his blood. He sped up as he got closer to the office. He got a call.)

Adam: Yoo! Where you at?

Jamal: I'm coming to the office now.

Adam: Good.

Jamal: You got work for me already?

Adam: That snitch that tipped you off was right.

Jamal: What the hell? You moved in on the address without telling me" We have to wait!

Adam: Chill chill. We did a few stop and searches in the area and we caught one dude affiliated with them. We got him with some weed and a small flick knife, nothing big but we got him in the interrogation room. He's been arrested a few times before but no record.

Jamal: How old is he?

Adam: 18 going on 19. He's just a kid, but he's not talking. Says he doesn't know Smokey.

Jamal: Smokey is the head of this operation. Once we take him down, everything else dies with it.

(Jamal arrived at the office shortly. It was busy, and smelt like coffee. Buzzing with feds, district attorneys and investigators. Jamal walked straight to the interrogation room where Adam waited. Adam was average height. He was white and had very pale skin, people called him Winter.

Adam: He won't talk.

Jamal: He will talk to me.

Adam: You sure about that?

Jamal: He's gonna talk to us.

Adam: How we doing this?

Jamal: Follow my lead.

(Jamal burst into the room, the kid AJ sat there with a blank facial expression. He looked at the walls and avoided eye contact at all costs. He wore grey champion hoodie, Timbs and baggy jeans. He was mixed race and had long curly hair.)

Jamal: You not gonna talk huh?

Adam: He's a tough guy.

Jamal: Naw, he's just a lil bitch.

AJ: I ain't talking until I get a lawyer. I don't know why I'm here for questioning? You got a lil ounce of weed from me and a 1 inch poker, congratulations. (He sarcastically clapped his hands) You gonna get a pay rise for that? Man quit playing, you ain't got nothing on me.

Jamal: What you talking about money lil boy?

AJ: Ha. Loser, you better get me out of here.

Jamal: Or what?

Adam: Chill J.

AJ: Or I'll sue your ass.

Jamal: Listen lil boy I haven't got any time for your games, tell me about Smokey and his crew. He doesn't care about you and none of his dawgs do. You are just their lil bitch.

Adam: He's just a kid man...

Jamal: Naw, he thinks he's the big guy. Hey Adam, what if we leave him on remand for a few weeks? Or a few months?

Adam: Technically we can't do that, we took the weed and he got a slap on the wrists so technically he can go home.

AJ: Listen to the white boy.

Jamal: You think this white boy cares about you? Why you in a rush? You want to go and buss it open for Smokey?

AJ:  Look you sicko, let me go.

Adam: Come on Jamal, quit playing with him-

Jamal: This gonna end with me getting what I want or you going to jail. I will leave you in the cell for refusing to co operate with the authorities.

Adam: What?

Aj: You can't do that! Tell him white boy!

Adam: Jamal, relax-

(Jamal pulled his chair back and flipped the table over and launched himself at AJ. He grabbed him by his throat and slammed him against the wall. His legs dangled in the air. AJ was struggling to breathe.)

Aj: Let..go-

Adam: What the hell are you doing!? Calm down

(Jamal released him, AJ dropped on the floor gasping for breath. Jamal put the table up between them again. He rubbed his head whilst staring at the floor.)

Jamal: You playing with me too much, I didn't want to do this but I have to.

(He put his hand by his waist near his gun holster, AJ's eyes opened wide. But Jamal just sat down calmly and looked at AJ and smiled. Then he laughed.)

AJ: You psycho! Let me go man!

Jamal: How's your little girlfriend?

AJ: What?

Jamal: Christina. She's just come out of high school, shes 16 turning 17 isn't she? Such sweet young love.

AJ: Where are you going with this? That's private stuff.

Jamal: Well a little bird told me that shes got a bun in the oven. Thats sweet. congratulations. Maybe having a kid early will make a man of you.

AJ: (Whispers) look man-

Jamal: I know the rest of her situation and-

(AJ's eyes welled up and he began to wimper.)

Jamal: She hasn't got the right papers has she? She hasn't got legal stay to remain in the country right?

(Jamal looked at Adam and scratched his head)

We have a lot of illegal immigrants in Spanish Harlem. But a few patriots aren't happy about that. Little Bolivian Christina got into the states managed to enrol onto a course and a little part time job whilst her knight in shining armour takes care of her. Isn't that the perfect love song Adam?

Adam: Look kid, you don't have a lawyer present you dont have to speak-

AJ: I have rights.

Jamal: It's a shame about Christina's rights, and your lil baby on the way. I might get her shipped back to where she came from. I mean you a hustler right? You can fly out there and visit her whenever. You got that bread right?

AJ: OK! OK! Please! I'll give you what you want, just leave my Christina out of this.

Jamal: You ready to stop playing? I make one call and your mamcita and  baby are back on some island somewhere and I promise you won't see them again.

AJ: Ok. Look what do you want to know?

Jamal: I need to know about Smokey and take down his whole organisation. He has got kids involved and he's making alot of money. He's exploiting you and others. Adam, you can go now.

(Adam got up and left the room.)

Jamal: Be honest with me. I don't have no problem with you, I want to help you. There was a shooting a few weeks back and it was kids.

AJ: Look man, I ain't no shooter.

Jamal: I know you are not, but I know you have information.

AJ: Look Smokey thinks he got screwed over by the Mexican crew so he sent some young boys to shoot at them. He pays his shooters $500 each. It's not a lot of money for that but to these kids $500 is damn 5 million. Thing is some of those boys ain't cold blooded shooters, so it got messy.

Jamal: Here's what we are gonna do. You are gonna tell me about his operation, where he eats, sleeps and shits. You got that? And you know what I'm gonna do after this conversation? You and your Christina are gonna move out of town and start a fresh, no drugs, no bullshit, you hear me? You got a kid coming and you still risking your freedom?

AJ: Look man, I ain't got no parents, its just me and my little brother we gotta eat.

Jamal: I will help you.

End Scene.

Chapter 5

2 weeks later...

(The front page of the local newspaper read "Local investigator takes down drug gang leader called Smokey. He relied heavily on youngsters in his drug business. He got busted by Jamal Joseph. Here's what Jamal had to say " Well I've been working with the feds and been an instigator my whole life, we need to crack down on these older men taking advantage of these kids. These kids have a bright future ahead of them despite living in the ghetto. They all have potential to become the next scientist, astronaut or baseball player. We need to get rid of tyrants like Smokey or our communities will never be peaceful." Hugo slammed the newspaper down and stood up from his chair. His henchmen were startled. He walked to the windows and looked outside over the city. He was on the top floor of a luxury apartment. He paced up and down slowly, he breathed heavily. He was a dark skinned gentleman, he was very short and quite chubby. He wiped the sweat off his head with the sleeve of his jacket. )

Hugo: This guy is good, he is too good. Smokey was an asset to us. He plugged in a lot of our drugs into that hood.

Ricardo: Smokey was good, he was loyal but he trusted the young boys too much.

Hugo: Young boys have been integral to operations for years.

Ricardo: I know but it's always a gamble. But at least we still get our cut and more on top.

Hugo: It's not about the money, we will always make the money, but we can't look weak to our competition. We need to be on top of the game.

Ricardo: Somebody must have snitched. I heard the feds rushed him at one of the trap houses. They rushed the one in Spanish Harlem, they tracked another one in Queens and Brooklyn. It was a big shake up.

Hugo: ha!

Ricardo: I know Smokey didn't talk. He's looking at 20 years, so you know he didn't co operate with the feds. He knows we know where his family stays so he wouldn't dare.

Hugo: He was a loyal stupid dog.

Kev: So what do we do now boss? The block is hot now. I went down around the area and all the dope boys and traffickers are scared to death.They never seen such a clean sweep of an operation. There isn't a drought, the dope boys are too scared to sell. They are scared of people wearing wires and phones being tapped.

Hugo: We need to do our own shake up. This Jamal guy, find out everything we can about him.

Ricardo: We gonna run up on him?

Hugo: No. We've killed feds before but we have to be smart, this guy isn't a basic guy. I need to study him and do our research. For now we continue business as normal but I want you to focus on research.

End Scene

Chapter 6

(Jamal came up the escalator all the way to the top floor. The W hotel was busy as usual, the air con was on but it was still hot. He wore loafers, shorts and a Ralph Lauren polo shirt. The escalator doors opened slowly and he walked through straight to door number 10. He pushed the door and Melanie lay there in all her glory, she had long red hair and freckles. She had a slim and petite frame. She wore a sexy negligee and stockings. She sat with her legss crossed and she bit her lip as Jamal strode into the room. He smiled as she lay there waiting for him.)

A few hours later...

Jamal: Damn, you take my breath away Mrs. Meadow.

Melanie: I've missed you.

Jamal: I can tell..what was that? 3 rounds? You trying to kill me?

Melanie: You are a strong young man, nothing you can't handle.

Jamal: You are trouble.

Melanie: You tackled one of the biggest gangsters in Harlem and you think little old me is a problem?

Jamal: You are crazy. That's my job ma'am and yes he is taken down but the work isn't done yet. Everybody answers to somebody.

Melanie: Meaning?

Jamal: Meaning, that Smokey took 20 years and a lot of that operation must have been funded by another party. He wasn't the head of the operation. He was a wild boy, he was too wild and reckless. He didn't snitch on anybody, he will rot in jail for a long time.

Melanie: Hmmm.

Jamal: Once we find out who was the big shadow behind him we will see the bigger picture.

Melanie: One thing at a time Mr. (She pulled him in close and she hugged him) So I've been thinking.

Jamal: What? (He turned over and looked in her eyes. Her face went bright red. She was infatuated with Jamal. She always felt warm and safe with him.)

Melanie: Before you say anything, this is nothing to do with you. It's my thought process, I need to be happy and I'm not happy.

Jamal: You got a kick ass job, well known and respected throughout New York and you get to lay with me, so what is the problem?

Melanie: NO! (She giggled) I mean my marriage with Darren. 

Jamal: Well if you were happy you wouldn't be here with me would you? 

Melanie: I know you know I'm not happy with my marriage. But I'm thinking of an anulment. I'm tired of pretending to be happy with Darren. But I'm a judge, so people judge me all the time. I have to save face. But I'm tired of it all. He doesn't know how to love me or make me feel special. I know we are both busy but he doesn't make any time for me. He doesn't make love to me. He takes on extra hours at work that he doesn't need. Poor Matthew complains he hardly sees his father but he doesn't seem bothered. In front of his colleagues he wants to kiss me in front of them but once they are gone he gives me the cold shoulder and I'm tired of it.

Jamal: Well if this is for your happiness then you have to do it. When I split with my ex it was messy but it was the right thing in the end.

Melanie: I will talk to him when I see him next. But I just wanted to tell you and don't worry I won't ask you to marry an old bird like me. 

Jamal: Look baby I'm here for you whenever, you've been good to me through all this and I can't help but feel maybe I've contributed to this 'sham marriage' but we can't change the past, we are here now. But whatever you need I am here for you.

(They held each other closer as Melanie smiled.)

End Scene.

Chapter 7

(Jamal came out of the grocery store and walked down the street. It was boiling hot it was approaching the peak of summer now. There was no indication that the heat was going to be letting up any time soon. He took of his t shirt, he only had his vest on. He walked for two blocks before turning into a house. It was a tiny house at the edge of the block. He was still in the decent side of Spanish Harlem but he wasn't too far away from the hood. The front door was open. He could smell some spicy food being cooked. The air con in the house was on, the cold air slapped his chest and he was grateful for it. He could hear loud music coming from upstairs.)

50 Cent: Many men, many many many many men, wish death pon me, dawg I don't cry no more, don't look to the sky no more, have mercy on me!

Julie: Is that Mr Jamal? Captain New York prowling in my house?

Jamal: Haha!

(Julie bounded out of the kitchen and hugged Jamal. Julie had raised him and his sister growing up. His mother was studying a lot and his Dad served in the Navy but Julie was always close to the family. She was a cheery character, she was part of the local church, she always volunteered to set up local charity events in the community. She was thin and dark skinned. She still looked young for somebody of 52 years old. She has brown eyes and dread locks. She had no kids of her own. She adopted  Francis when he was 4 years old. Both of his parents were crackheads. Both of them were out of the picture.)

Julie: You are a good boy! I've seen you all over that newspaper, I told the folks at church that you are basically my son. 

Jamal: That isn't far from the truth.

Julie: You got a girlfriend? We got some fine church girls? It's about time you forgot about that no good Lara.

Jamal: Big Mama, stop, please! Haha!

Julie: What kind of crazy woman leaving you for a white man? These girls are tripping.

Jamal: It was my fault.

Julie: You better stop saying that before I whoop you! You were helping people, more people like you are needed in this place, it's a shame she couldn't see that. 

Jamal: Some people don't see it like that.

Julie: How's my Zack?

Jamal: He's just getting bigger and bigger.

Julie: I'll go and get him next week, he adores Francis.

Jamal: How is Francis? He's upstairs right?

(The volume of the music increased, there was a slight vibration going through the floor.)

Julie: Hmmm. I guess he is ok, he hasn't got into any trouble at school. He is still getting top grades, teachers say he is a model student. But in the last few months he has been withdrawn. He isn't putting his hand up and contributing in lessons. He doesn't speak unless he is spoken to. He seems traumatized.

Jamal: What a dramatic word-

Julie: No seriously! That boy quiet as a mouse, he don't talk in church or when we are out in the store. He's just in his room listening to music or studying.

Jamal: Hmm, that is quite unusual but he is a teenage boy. We all go through phases.

Julie: I remember your teenage phases. 

Jamal: Well we don't need to go down memory lane now.

Julie: Haha! 

Jamal: I'll go upstairs and speak to that knuckle head.

(Jamal went upstairs and the music was booming.)

Biggie: Who shot ya!

Jamal: Yoo!

(Francis hopped up off his bed startled.)

Francis: Damn son.

Jamal: Don't curse in big mama's house that's numero uno.

Francis: Oh man, sorry man! Good to see you! Whats up?

(Jamal stared at him and slowly looked around the room.)

Jamal: I've been working boy, you?

Francis: Same old, still hitting targets in school.

Jamal: Sit down.

Francis: What?

Jamal: Sit down, I haven't got time.

(Francis looked bemused and he sat down.)

Jamal: Look, there was a shoot out not long ago and I know you were involved. I'm not coming to bring you in to the station. I'm not coming to lecture you.

Francis: What? I'm not into that stuff. Al I do is study bro.

(Jamal stared at him.)

Francis: Who told you this?

Jamal: Francis , I don't have time, don't mock me. Julie has worked hard for myself and now you. Don't bring no drama to her gates because if you drag her into any mess I will take you in myself so help me God.

(Francis trembled and he began to sweat.)

Jamal: Your friend AJ told me everything.

(Francis gasped)

Francis: So you gonna tell big mama?

Jamal: Look this isn't about me telling anybody.

Francis: Then what then? You ain't my poppa.

Jamal: You damn right I ain't your poppa, your pops was a crackhead and your momma too. 

Francis: Thanks for reminding me.

Jamal: Yeah I have to remind you because you need to understand the road you are going will lead you to the same place as them or worse. Do you hear me?

(Francis's eyes welled up.)

Jamal: You are lucky there wasn't no CCTV on the corner. You are lucky the feds want you all to kill each other. You think they give a damn about some dead black or latino young boys?

Francis: Ok I'm sorry, I got caught up. Big mama needed some bills to be paid so I wanted to help her out.

Jamal: So from bills to shoot outs?

Francis: Look, like I said I got caught up. I just gave some work to the middle man a few days a week. No big deal, same spot, same client. One day before the transaction Smokey spoke to me and told me he was giving me extra bread for the hard work I was doing. But he gave me a hammer, he told me if there is anything funny I should use it. I was scared, I wanted to say no, I wasn't in it for no drama but you can't say no to that guy. I had to go a street further than usual, I saw the guy that I usually deal with but he looked pretty bad and pretty angry. All I remember is-

(He started to sob.)

Francis: Dude came out-

Jamal: It's ok I don't need to know the details-

Francis: He said hey man, where's Smokey?!

Jamal: Francis, its ok-

Francis: I said I didn't know and he pulled out his gun and he started shooting but he missed, then I started shooting back.

(He began to sob uncontrollably. Jamal put his arm around him as he cried. Big Mama slid open the door slowly and her eyes were wide open, Jamal signalled her to leave and she crept out quietly.)

Jamal: You made a bad choice and that's fine. But you can't do that again. What's Zack gonna do without his best friend huh?

Francis: I didn't want to get in too deep.

Jamal: You still dealing?

Francis: Naw, I ain't doing that, some young boys still are even though Smokey is locked up.

(Jamal and Francis went downstairs to eat. Big Mama always made a feast whenever Jamal was around. They all acted as normal as possible. When Francis left the table Jamal just told Julie it was some girl stuff. A girl had dumped him.)

Julie: He ain't told me he had no girlfriend? Is that why he pulling them sad eyes all the time? I'm gon give him a big kiss and a clip round his ear.

Jamal: He's a big boy, he don't need no kisses or slaps.

Julie: You are a good man Jamal, I'm happy you are here for him. As strong as I am a woman can't completely raise a man. 

Jamal: You raised me ok.

Julie: Thank the Lord!

(Jamal gave her a hug and left the house. As he walked down the street he was feeling quite pensive. He was happy Smokey was off the street but at the same time he didn't realise how many kids he pulled into dealing. He made a lot of mess before getting locked up. Francis was lucky he was a clever kid. In a year he would be off to college studying but some of the other guys don't have that advantage and will be in the game for a long time. His phone rang, it was a private caller, he ignored it. Number called again and he ignored it. Shortly he got a text saying "answer your phone Mr. Joseph, it's important." His phone buzzed again.)

Jamal: Hello??

Unknown caller: Ahh is this the hero?

Jamal: Who is this?

Unknown: Somebody that isn't happy with you and your work.

Jamal: What?

Unknown: What is important to you Jamal? Who do you love?

Jamal: Look punk-

Unknown: Judge Melanie? Is she important to you? Go to her home and see how important she is.

(The phone cut. Jamal's heart sank. He was frozen on the spot, he began to sweat profusely. He called Melanie twice but it went to voicemail. He called a couple more times and still no response. He ran to down the block to his car and hopped in. He sped down the roads, he went through countless red lights but he didn't care. He was terrified. After 15 minutes he pulled up to Melanie's place. The lights were on and both her and her husband's cars were parked outside. He slid down the back of the house. He could hear the TV and everything as normal. He could see her husband sitting on the chair watching the TV as normal. He laughed heartily at the TV screen. Jamal was confused, his phone rang again, to his relief he saw Melanie's name come up.)

Jamal: Melanie!

Melanie: Hey boo, I was in the shower when you called. I'm gonna have an early night Darren is being an asshole-

Jamal: Come outside.

Melanie: What?

Jamal: I'm out the back come outside.

Melanie: Jamal?

Jamal: I'm waiting.

(Within 2 minutes Melanie came out of the house through the back garden in her bathrobe and slippers. She was surprised to see him there. She smiled at him when she got closer.)

Melanie: Miss me huh?

Jamal: Is everything ok? I just got a weird call.

Melanie: From who? 

Jamal: I don't know, I just have a bad feeling.

Melanie: Relax sir, nothing to worry about.

Jamal: You don't understand. I think somebody may be after you, or me, or us?

Melanie: What? 

(Jamal was trembling, he was terrified, he stared into Melanie's deep blue eyes. It wasn't until then he realised he actually cared for Melanie. He was overwhelmed. But he quickly regained his composure.)

Jamal: You know what, maybe its nothing. I'm tripping.

Melanie: You sure?

Jamal: I've had a long day, I will be fine. 

Melanie: Hmm, your crazy ass couldn't get enough of me. You want more huh? (She pulled him in close and they kissed passionately.) Although this fantasy is quite sexy Mr you need to scram. Can you imagine the headlines? 'Judge's husband catches her having sex in back garden?' 

(They both laughed, Jamal pulled away from her and left, as he stepped into his car his phone rang again it was private number again.)

Unknown caller: How was your lover?

Jamal: Who is this? When I find you-

Unknown: We will meet each other soon, I just wanted to see the kind of man you are. You are a brave man, a man with integrity, I must say I use the word integrity loosely, well I mean you are banging a married woman. 

Jamal: You want to hurt her?

Unknown: Mrs. Meadow? No. She's just a whore with a fancy job. We won't touch a hair on her pretty head, you don't need to worry about her. Honestly. truly she has nothing to worry about. I just wanted to make sure you were on your toes.

Jamal: You are sick, this call will get traced and its all over Jack!

Unknown: You think I'm an idiot? I know who you are. This phone will get disposed of just like I got rid of the other phone I used to call you before.

Jamal: Look-

Unknown: You are quite a brave man, imagine what you would do for little Zack?

(Jamal was shaking, his mouth dried up.)

Unknown: What no threats huh? 

(The voice of the caller had become more deep and vicious.)

Unknown: Imagine that? I thought you were perfect but you aren't all that I thought you were. A better man would have checked on his own family first but here you are running around like a headless chicken for some dumb whore. 

Jamal: I'm the wrong one to play with.

Unknown: You think I'm playing huh? Get to Zack now and see if I'm playing with you.

(Phone cuts. Jamal was no longer scared, he was furious. He put his foot down and drove straight to Lara's place. He pulled up and took his gun from the glove compartment. He moved stealthily to the house and looked over all areas. The front door was wide open, he came inside and both Lara and Henry was sprawled out on the floor. He checked to make sure both of them were breathing. Both of them were still alive but knocked out clocked. He looked around the room and saw two towels, he picked them up. He had seen this before; it was Chloroform. He ran upstairs and his heart was pounded. He burst into Zack's room, he was fast asleep on his bed. Jamal gasped with relief. He shook Zack and woke him up.)

Jamal: We need to go, now.

Zack: Where we going? 

Jamal: Far away.

Zack: Like a vacation.

(Jamal nodded his head frantically.)

Jamal: Yes, but we need to go now.

(Jamal swept up Zack in his arms and ran down the stairs. Lara and Henry were knocked out cold. Zack saw them lying on the floor and began to panic.)

Zack: Daddy whats happening?

(Jamal called the ambulance. Suddenly 3 police cars rushed the front lawn, several officers came out with their guns drawn.)

Officer: Put the kid down now! Or I will be forced to shoot you!

Jamal: Woah! It's a mistake! This is my son!

Officer; Sir if you don't put the kid down I've got one of my good sniper friends outside ready to shoot you right in between the eyes, this doesn't need to get messy.

(Zack was screaming.)

Jamal: It's ok Zack.

(Jamal got on his knees,  and put his hands on his head.)

Officer: Kidnapping huh? You son of a bitch.

Jamal: I'm a fed myself, I'm a private investigator. Jamal Joseph, please this is a big mistake. 

Officer: What the hell are you doing?

Jamal: Sir please! Why the hell would I kidnap my own son?!

Officer: Look we got the call that there was a breaking and entering.

Jamal: Who called? What time?

Officer: It was 5 minutes ago, unknown number.

(Jamal got up immediately.)

Jamal: This is a set up.

Officer: GET DOWN NOW!

Jamal: LOOK-

Officer: Sir you are arrested for breaking and entering and attempted kidnapping.

End Scene

Whispers in the Wind: Part 3 (Finale)

Whispers in the Wind: Part 3 (Finale)

Scene 1

Compton...1994

Mr Johnson: Hey! Hey! Hey! Get back here you silly kids! You didn't pay for that! Give them back!

(Jese, Pedro, Jay and Casey didn't stop running, They ran as fast as their legs could carry them.)

Mr. Johnson: Stop!

Pedro: Haha! That boozoo shouldn't be eating too many donuts!

(They entered a back street and split up. Mr. Johnson knew that he couldn't keep up, he was way out of breath, he couldn't feel his legs.)

Mr. Johnson: Ok...you just wait, just wait till I tell your parents!

(The kids giggled as they disappeared out of sight. After a few minutes they ended up on one of the corners at the edge of their block. Jese emptied his bag. He emptied out sodas, candy, chips, cigarettes and  some army knives.)

Pedro: Haha! We got some good loot!

Jese: I've been dream about this all week bruh!

(They shared out the goods evenly and sat down laughing.)

Jay: You think he saw your face?

Pedro: I don't care. my mama don't use that store and he doesn't know where I live so I ain't bothered. You scared Jay?

Jay: Naw, it's just that I don't want to get grounded again..

Jese: Awwwww.

(They all laughed.)

Casey: Damn, its sooo true what they say, food tastes better when you don't pay for it.

Pedro: Beleeedddd dat! (He high fives Casey.)

(The sun was blazing hot in Compton. A few crews stood on the corner playing dice games and drinking liquor. Some guys sat on the top of a roof of a house smoking weed freely. A short black lady hobbled out of the house and pointed her stick up at them and began cursing them. "You better get your ass off my damn roof! This ain't no smoking society. Get off here before I call the cops on your ass!". "You can't call the cops on us Grandma!? "I bet your ass I will...now bounce...I ain't playing bwoi!". A silver low rider slid through the street bumping NWA. It was like the whole hood stopped to watch. All the chicks stopped talking to whatever dude they were speaking to get a look at the car. It was Jason, he was half black, half Hispanic. He made a lot of money selling crack and doing scams,. He eased up on the crack dealing because everybody knew that everybody was snitching so he had to switch up. But whatever happened he always seemed to have money. Half his family were crips and the other half were bloods. So he could break bread with both crews. He was slim and dark, he had long curly hair. He was well respected. He hooped out of the whip and nodded at a few of the bloods across the street. He turned to Pedro and Jese and smiled. Casey took one more chocolate and walked off without saying anything.)

Jason: I see you kids laughing, what's funny papi?

Pedro: We robbed a little corner store, some knuckle head tried to chase us, no biggie.

Jason: Ha!

Pedro: How's it going man? I need to get me one of those whips cuz.

Jason: Ha! Maybe one day young bull. Where did your friend go? (I looked at Casey as he walked down the street.

Pedro: He helped us rob the store, he's only down for the petty stuff nothing crazy. He ain't down for the real stuff.

Jason: Lil bwoi could make some money, it looks like he could do with some new sneakers.

Jese: He's a mouse, he isn't built for this.

Jason: Jese you remind me of a younger me. Hey check these out. (He walked to the back of his whip and popped the trunk. He reached in and presented them both with a pair of converses.

(Pedro and Jese mouths dropped.)

Jese: COOOOOOOLL!!!

Pedro: This feels like Christmas!

Jason: Ya'll trippin this ain't nothing cuzz.

Jese: Thanks Jason.

Jason: I got ya'll kids back.

Pedro: And we got yours!

Jason: You damn right!

(Jason goes back into the trunk and gives Jese a pack and nods his head in acknowledgement.)

Pedro: What about me? You ran out of work?

Jason: AHAHAHA!!! I like you papi!

Pedro: Come on whats the deal?

Jason: We never run out of work beleed dat, but we gotta move carefully. I'm too pretty to go to jail. ain't that right mami. (He winks at the girl sitting in the passenger seat.)

Pedro: Ight!

(Jason shakes hands with them and hops back in his whip.)

Jason: Imma get that stacks off you in two days. Same arrangement as before cuz, Nice and smooth.

Later that evening....

Mama: How was school Peedy?

Pedro: School was good mama. 

Mama: You still getting those good grades?

Pedro: Of course!

Mama: It's a shame you stopped baseball, you could have made it and brought us some serious deniro in the future!

Pedro: Ha! It's best to focus on the studies and other things mama.

Mama: Don't finish all of the food leave some for your brother.

(She stood up and covered the pot. She had short hair and a small and curvy frame. She had brown eyes and a beauty spot just above her top lip. She was always doing the best for them. He hardly saw his Dad. His mother rarely spoke about him. He wasn't sure if he was a crackhead or dealer or in and out the pen. But he detached himself. Whenever he was in town he had a new story. One minute he was in the church,the next minute he was starting his own company. His uncle Victor lived with them, he paid most of the bills, he had a good job just out the city. He was some sort of contractor, he was always talking about his job but Pedro never paid attention. His mind was in the streets, he just wanted to make paper. Him and jese were serving weed to some of the dealers in the neighbourhood. He took a small cut of the money with each sale. He was happy with that as was Jese.)

Mama: Fernando is asleep. Where is Jese?

Pedro: I will get him mama he is probably playing soccer on the corner-

(The door burst open, Vicor held Jese by the scruff of his neck.)

Jese: Get off me, you are hurting me.

Mma: Victor! What is this!? What are you doing?

(Pedro's jaw dropped. Victor was holding the backpack with the work. Jese had to make one transaction, Victor must have caught him.)

Victor: Sister! Your boy is a drug dealer ! Look at this! (He threw the bag at her feet,. She bent over and held it.)

Victor: Open it!

Jese: No Mama!

(She opened it slightly and tears ran down her face.)

Victor: You see! I caught him at the back of the house standing there looking like he was up to something, I knew that-

Pedro: It's mine.

Victor: What?

Pedro: It's mine. It's not for Jese, it's for me.

Victor: Are you loco?

Pedro: Sorry mama, sorry Uncle. I just wanted him to hold it for me.

Victor: I don't believe you.

Pedro: I'm being serious. He is just a kid, nobody would suspect him.

Victor: You want to get your lil brother in trouble?

Jese: I'm sorry.

Victor: Don't say sorry.

Mama: And where did you get those sneakers in your room? I saw them.

Victor: I got them.

Jese: No-

(His mum ran up the stairs and Pedro tried to follow him but his Uncle blocked him at the doorway. She trashed his room and found weed and cash. She brought it downstairs, she had tears streaming down his face. She slapped him across his face. His face stung immediately, he held back tears. )

Mama: You want to be the big boy? You can go, get out, leave us alone...

Pedro: What?

Mama: GET OUT!!!!

(She threw all of his stuff on the front porch, she didn't say a word. Jese began crying. Fernando woke up and looked at everything from his window. Pedro was upset but he didn't show it, he held it together. Victor looked on sternly and shook his head.)

Mama: Don't come back, you want to live the street life, you can stay in the streets, don't bring my Jese or Nando into your mess! 

End Scene

Scene 2

(Fernando and Pedro sat in the car in silence. Pedro's face was contorted with rage. Fernando wore an expression of anxiety. He could tell Pedro was angry. He had never seen him this angry in years. Pedro had been at such a positive place for years and it was on the brink of being destroyed. Pedro hadn't held a gun or done any crime for a long time. Now he was looking at doing something that would get him 25 to life.)

Fernando: Peedy...

(Pedro sat silently.)

Fernando: Peedy. We haven't got 50 stacks. I still have some money stashed away from when I was dealing but its only 20 stacks...I don't mind giving that.

Pedro: Let me think.

Fernando: Jese is not a serious guy, I should have known this day was coming.

(Pedro opened the door and stood in front of the car. I cried out and began beating the hood on the bonnet. He beat it in rage until his hands were raw. )

Fernando: STOP IT!!!

Pedro: Why!?? WHHY NOW!?? WHY NOWWW!??

Fernando: I know I know but we need to think about this. I know that cartel we can't go all guns blazing. Even if we give them the money they want there isn't a guarantee they will hand over Jese. We need to do something .

Pedro: My little girl needs to get out of town, that is my priority. 

Fernando: Brother...I'm not sure about all this stuff man, it's sounding too risky.

Pedro: So we leave him? We leave our brother?

Fernando: Damn..

Pedro: Jese is an asshole, I tried to pull him out of this shit and now he is dragging me into his.

End Scene

Scene 3

The next day...

(Pedro pulled up to Cassie's place. It was at least a 2 hour drive from his place. He wanted to get Isabella out of the country but he also wanted her close enough so he could keep an eye on her. She had slept the whole journey, Fernando also slept on the way there. Cassie was their cousin through their Dad's side. He didn't really know that side of his family too well but Cassie was always close. She had her own family with 3 kids. She adored Eliza. Cassie was living in the hood and she was a tough chick. She used to be in a crip set but her talent in photography and fashion saved her from the hood. It was a blessing she left because she was crazy. She still was crazy. Half Latina and half African American. Her skin was dark brown, she sported a bouncy Afro. She squealed with joy as the pulled up in her drive.)

Cassie: WHATTT!!?? My big brosss! Oh my God! (She jumped on Fernando and Pedro.)

Pedro: Whoaaa!

Cassie: Haha!

Fernando: Casius Clay!

Cassie: Ha! It's been a long time since anybody has called me that! NANDO YOU HAVE LOST WEIGHT!

Fernando: I'm sexy now huh?

Cassie: You are still a nerd.

Pedro: Haha

(Pedro scooped up a now awake Isabella who was yawning.)

Cassie: My angel!

Isabella: Hello Auntie!

Pedro: You miss auntie huh?

Eliza: Yes!

Cassie: I'm going to cry outside! She is looking beautiful! She looks exactly like Bianca! Wow! I am going to keep you missy! (Pedro and Fernando look at each other awkwardly)

(She covers her with kisses and squeezes her cheeks. She scoops her up and leads them into the house. Her sons Jamal, Junior and Joseph were in the backyard playing. When they saw their uncles they stopped what they were doing and came over to greet them. Jamal was 10, Joseph was 8, Junior was 6. All had long plaited hair and caramel smooth skin which glistened in the sun.)

Jamal: Hey! You staying with us again?

Fernando: If I stayed I would kick you ass at fuzz ball and you would go back to school crying so its better I don't stay here. 

Jamal: Oh you wish!

Pedro: You got better at that Jamal?

Jamal: What? I would kick his ass with both eyes closed-

(Cassie clipped his ear.)

Cassie: You not using that language in front of my angel, don't make me get wild bwoi. Now go and fix her a juice and some snacks. 

Jamal: Aww ok ma!

Cassie: I've missed you guys!

Pedro: Where is Ronald?

Cassie: He is at work, I told him you were coming, he's got some baseball tickets. You guys can go and watch tomorrow, then maybe after we can-

Pedro: We need to talk cousin. (His tone soft but serious.)

(She smiled awkwardly and looked at Fernando, who winced.)

(They went to the conservatory. Pedro broke down the whole situation to Cassie. She couldn't hold back her tears. She was tough, , very emotional, she reminded him of Bianca sometimes.)

Cassie: You haven't got a plan? You gonna go there two guns up and hope that asshole is going to hand over your brother?

Pedro: We will work it out, I still know some people in the street. They still owe me loyalty.

Cassie: What about Jese's goons? Where are his workers?

Fernando: All scattered like rats.

Cassie: Pedro, this is the life that he has chosen. Let him lie in his bed, he knows the deal when you get caught in the street life. Do not make this your problem-

Pedro: I lost my friends to that life, I lost my wife, I can't lose my brother.

Cassie: And you want to risk losing yourself and Fernando's? Tell me what you gain from that?

Pedro: Cassie, please I didn't come to go back and forth. I can't leave my brother like that. I have to protect him.

(The kids ran around the house. Eliza was squealing with joy. Pedro's heart sank but his face was still blank.)

Cassie: You know I love Eliza , I will do anything to keep her happy and safe even though her father has gone loco!

Pedro: Cassie!

Fernando: Cassie!

Cassie: No! You left the hood and showed us all that is the best thing to do, now you are walking right back into a bear trap.

Fernando: It's complicated.

Pedro: Cassie-

Cassie: Get out! I will do my best to watch over Isabella, but as for you just get out of my face. I'm not happy.

(At that Fernando and Pedro got up and left. Pedro walked towards Isabella and kissed her forehead. He held her tight and Eliza kissed him back. She wriggled out of his grip and ran with her cousins. She didn't have time for affection. Cassie walked them to the door, she scowled at them both then hugged them both. She whispered "I love you crazy sons of bitches". Typical of Cassie, they were used to it. One minute she loved them. The next minute she cursed them, she was crazy. They both hopped in the whip and sped off. The drive to Compton was going to be long. All now they hadn't discussed any viable plan, they did have some money but Pedro had no intention of giving that money over to the mob boss. He told Stacy that he went on a business trip. One of the many lies he had told her but he did love her. He promised himself that if he got out of this mess alive he would tell her the full truth. Fernando felt in his heart he didn't want to go but he had no choice but to ride out.)

Pedro: Nando.

Fernando: Yes?

Pedro: I'm sorry about all of this. I'm sorry Jese didn't listen when I told him to leave Compton. I didn't try hard enough.

Fernando: It's not your fault. Now we have to clean up his mess.

Pedro: I know.

Fernando: He is an ass hole (Sighs)

Pedro: I love you brother.

Fernando: I love you too brother.

End Scene

Scene 4

(After 3 hours they arrived in Compton. It was just like he had never left. Block parties, kids running around, old ladies stood outside the church. One thing about Compton was that despite all the drama. A lot of the people were happy. Some of the poorest people in America were from Compton but you wouldn't know it. Fernando couldn't help but smile when he saw all the joy in the neighbourhood. Pedro on the other hand had a blank face, he felt rage bubbling. He swore he would never come back to this city again. But here he was, riding round looking for the local gun dealer.)

Fernando: Yoo papi, you mean mugging too much.

(Pedro's face was still screwed up. He felt on edge already. It wasn't fear, he felt uncomfortable. He knew he had to stay focused on the task at hand or he could lose everything. )

Pedro: Sorry man.

Fernando: Loosen up-

Pedro: Loosen up and we get dealt with. Is that what you want?

Fernando: Yoo, chill-

(Pedro ignored him and pulled up outside their uncle's house. They didn't get out of the car for 5 minutes they just watched the area. It seemed pretty safe. A pyro gang stood on the corner but they were practically kids. There were only 3 of them. They didn't care about the older dudes in the hood. They got out of the car and walked up the steps into the house. When they walked in Uncle Carlos's  eyes lit up.)

Uncle Carlos: My boys!

Pedro: Uncle.

Fernando: Uncle! (They embraced)

Uncle Carlos: You still haven't found Jese? Where is he? I'm worried about him? I haven't seen him for a few days. He came to drop me some money the other day, I told him I didn't need it but he dropped it anyway.

Pedro: Uncle you need to go.

Uncle Carlos: What? 

Pedro: Uncle, it's not safe. You need to go today. 

Uncle Carlos: This is my home??? Where would I go? I haven't hardly got any money/

Pedro: Don't worry about that.

(A big van pulled up and 2 men hopped out and pulled up.)

Pedro: These men will take care of you. I can't risk anything happening to you old man.

Uncle Carlos: What happening? What are you doing?

(Pedro tapped Fernando and nodded towards the car, they walked out whilst their Uncle called out. Pedro couldn't risk anything happening to his remaining family in Compton.. He arranged the delivery men to help his auntie move out with her children as well.)

Fernando: You did the right thing amigo.

(Later that day they took a trip deeper in the hood. They went to their old corner to meet an old friend G Dee. G Dee had been the local gun dealer for the longest time.  He was never really in Compton, he always kept a low profile, you would be lucky to keep him around longer than an hour. He did his business and bounced that was his style. If you were even ten seconds late for an appointment he would leave with no hesitation. They waiting outside an old apartment building. They came 10 minutes early, they knew better than to play with his time. Soon enough G Dee arrived. He was always well dressed and smooth, you would have never though he was an illegal arms dealer. He was mixed race. He had a long beard and blue eyes. He was still skinny, this was probably due to smoking cigarettes 24/7. )

G Dee: You know how I do it. Let me get in the back.

(He hopped in the back seat.)

G Dee; Shotgun, 30 clips. 10 already in the chamber. I got a hand gun too, fully loaded, but I haven't got any extra bullets so you gonna have to make it count. Deal?

(Pedro examined the guns closely. He had been in some shoot outs but he never ever looked at what gun he had, he just took what was given to him and got busy. He looked at the mirror and saw G dee in the backseat looking outside the window.)

Pedro: You ok back there?

G Dee: Do we have a deal?

Pedro: We got a deal amigo. Thank you.

G Dee: $2,000?

Pedro: Deal (Fernando handed over bag stuffed with cash.. G Dee counted it and stepped out of the car. He looked back and walked back to the car.)

Fernando: Yes?

G Dee: Wait? Didn't you move out of the hood?

Pedro: Mind your business, you didn't see us.

G Dee; Ight.

(The engine rumbled loudly as they pulled off. G Dee stood and watched as they dipped out. He took out his cell and dialled a number.)

G Dee: They have come boss. They just left 14th street where I met them, they heading towards 3rd Av.

(He hung up the phone and threw the cell through the drains.)

End Scene

Scene 5

(Pedro pulled up at the traffic lights. He took a deep breath, he was fully loaded, he had no idea what the police patrol was like in the city, but he had to keep it together. When they were younger they would track how often the feds came around, usually there was a pattern but but there was no time for that. His phone rang. It was an unknown number, he pulled up.)

Pedro: Who is this? Where is my brother?

K Dawg: Yo! Slow down! Its me!

Pedro: K dawg??

(K Dawg was Jese's right hand man, they had been friends from school.)

K Dawg; Yoo man, the block is hot, the snatched Jese. They almost grabbed me too but I was lucky.

Pedro: Where is Jese!? We are in the city now.

K Dawg; Ight, I'm at an abandoned building opposite your Mom's old crib, Jese used it to stash some of his money and his work here. He told me to take this out of town.

Pedro: I'm coming now!

K Dawg; Becareful amigo, this guy has eyes all of the city-

(Suddenly as Pedro was pulling off a jeep rammed the back of his car. Everything slowed down, everything was silent apart from the ringing in his ears. He could see Fernando shouting in the corner of his eyes but he couldn't hear him. 2 men in balaclavas dragged them out of the vehicle. One of them gun butted Pedro and he doubled backwards. The other grabbed a pistol and shot at Fernando but hejumped out the way. The bullet ricocheted off the trash can. Pedro's eye swelled up immediately, his vision was seriously blurred. Suddenly another van pulled up and there was some shout and one or two shots were let off. Another group of men with balaclavas came on the scene arguing. He couldn't hear anything. He called out Fernando's name but there was no reply. There was more screaming and shouting but no sirens. He became frantic, calling out Fernando's name. Out of nowhere somebody grabbed him from behind and hoisted him up and tossed him in the back of a van, he hit it with a thud. He lay flat on his back and heard another thud beside him.)

Fernando: Pedro! It's me, Nando!

Pedro: WHAT!? Thank God! What's happening? 

Fernando: I'm here brother.

(Pedro quinted up and winced as the van's engine grumbled and the van began to move forward. A lady stood over him. He thought he was dreaming.)

Pedro: Bianca????!! Is that you!!?

Sienna: No, close enough, it's Sienna. Bianca's little sister. Driver step on it before the cops come!

End Scene 

Scene 6

(A few hours had passed. Pedro lay on the sofa half awake with an ice pack on his face. His head was still ringing but he was lucky to even be alive so he didn't complain. He and Fernando had made it out. The living room was small, a few dudes stood at the doorway staring in at Pedro and Fernando on the sofa. Sienna walked back into the room. he had seen her once since he left Compton. The last time he saw her was Bianca's funeral. He offered her out of the hood but she wasn't responsive to his advice. She instead decided to stay in the hood. She dropped out of school and began hustling. She started doing credit card scams and slowing worked her way into drugs. Now she was operating in both markets full time. She had a lot of clientele. He had did a few deals with Jese and Fernando earlier in the year. Pedro knew that she was devastated when Bianca died, at the funeral he told him she had forgiven him and it was her fault for getting involved in the mess. She tried to stop her following him that fateful night but Bianca didn't listen to anybody.)

Sienna: Are you two ok?

Pedro: Gracias.

Sienna: You are family, don't say that, this is normal.

Pedro: No, you didn't have to. You risked your life for me even though I'm the reason your sister isn't here. And you still put your neck on the line.

Sienna: You talk too much, here, have a beer. 

(Fernando shuffled in his seat. He hadn't spoke throughout the whole journey there.)

Pedro: Aren't you going to say thank you?

Fernando: How did you know we were there?

Sienna: Ha! What?

Fernando: You heard me?!

Sienna: If you must know we were on our way to do a job. It just happened to be your lucky day.

Pedro: Stop asking stupid questions this is familia! Stop talking and call K dawg. Tell him to come here, he says he knows where that asshole is.

Sienna: What asshole?

Pedro: The Dominican? 

Sienna: Ricardo? His name is Ricardo?

Pedro: He has my brother.

Sienna: I know, the streets talk. 

Pedro: Sienna, you saved my life, but if you could just give me the address.

Sienna: Hmmm, it's not so simple.

Pedro: What do you mean? 

Sienna: I mean this guy is an asshole but he is not stupid. He is on the brink of putting Jese out of business. He has a lot of people in the city that have his back. He has a lot of property. There is no telling where Jese is. 

Pedro: Give me one address. I will find of of his henchman and torture them myself until I get the answer.

(Sienna laughed.)

Pedro: Sienna? Whats funny?

Sienna: What is funny is that you think people still care about you rep? Or fear you? There are still some people that call you a pussy for leaving here. And you got caught slipping a few hours ago with ease, you were lucky I saved your ass.

(Fernando called K Dawg 3 times and got no answer.)

(Pedro froze.)

Sienna: But that is neither here nor there. We both have a common interest. I need to get rid of Ricardo so my business can thrive. He took Jese off the streets. It's only a matter of time before he turns his attention to my operation. 

Pedro: So when do you intend to make your move?

Sienna: Tomorrow night.

Pedro: So you know where to go?

Sienna: Yes I have a friend that will help me. (She nods at the men at the door. One of them walk out and within two minutes he was back. He dragged in a blindfolded man. He was wailing and weeping. He was blindfolded and his hands were taped together.)

Leroy: That big ass house by 23rd street. I told you already please, just let me go. 

Sienna: Naw you coming on a trip with us. 

Pedro: Nice.

Sienna: One of his mobb men I caught him snooping around the area so we grabbed him. He's a good singer.

Fernando: Pedro, we don't need her help.

Pedro: Are you crazy? She has the guns and the bread to help.

Sienna: Look Nando, if you don't like the cold close the window.

Fernando: I'm tired of this, I've been shot before, almost got shot again today. I'm copping out.

Pedro: Don't be silly, call K Dawg, when Sienna gives the order we move in on that guy.

Fernando: HE AIN'T BEEN ANSWERING MY CALLS HE AIN'T COMING AND I AIN'T COMING NEITHER!

Pedro: Think about what you are doing brother! We got this far-

Fernando: Cassie was right, you are crazy, you brother me out of here and you want me to come back? I'm not dying for that asshole.

(He left and slammed the door.)

Pedro: PUTA!

(Pedro wiped the sweat off his head. Sienna came behind him and gave his shoulders a squeeze. Almost like a massage. She followed him out to the balcony and gave him a cigarette. He took a few puffs and stared into the darkness. Sienna stared at him, she had always found him insanely attractive but for obvious reasons she could never act on her desires. When Pedro had the streets on lock down, his aura attracted all the girls but he only had eyes for Bianca. Even without any street credibility or dominance there was still something about him that pulled Sienna towards him.)

Sienna: She loved you so much you know.

Pedro: I know, I loved her too, I still do.

(She winced)

Sienna: I do miss her. How is your daughter?

Pedro: Our daughter is fine, and her name is Eliza.

Sienna: Same name as our Grandma.

Pedro: Yes, and you still haven't seen her. Whenever you decide to leave this lifestyle try and visit her. She would love you, I'm sure Bianca wouldn't be happy you haven't seen her since we left.

Sienna: It's complicated-

( Pedro's phone vibrated, he picked it up. She sent a picture of Eliza sleeping. He looked at the picture and threw his phone across the street. He didn't need his emotions to distract him. He had a job to focus on.)

End Scene

Scene 7

(Biggie's "Who Shot ya" played out of one of the whips in the convoy)

Biggie: NEIGHBOURS CALLED THE COPS AS THEY HEARD MAD SHOTS!

(Pedro and Sienna sat at the front. Pedro was strapped and focused. He wanted to do the job as quickly as possible. Sienna had her men at the front of the house with some cash. The plan was to pick up drugs in exchange for money. Very simple apart from the house was not an ordinary house, it was practically a mansion. There were so many exits and entrances. Ricardo's men opened the gates and 8 men came out the front and they began to talk about the transaction.)

Sienna: You feel good?

Pedro: Lets get this shit done. My little girl is waiting for me.

Sienna: This punk needs to hurry up.

(Pedro hops out and crept past through the bushes. He pulls his mask on tight and hops over the back fence. Sienna follows suit. She moves stealthily almost like Cat woman. There was one short man stood on the back door. Pedro crept behind  him and tackled him to the ground. He gave him two punches to the nose and sliced his ear. He looked at Sienna whilst he fell back and began to mouth something inaudible.  

Guard: What? Why are you...

(She stamped on his head and knocked him out cold. They climbed through the window and landed in the kitchen. The kitchen was huge, marble floors and high ceiling. Ricardo was definitely the King pin. He could hear muffled voices from the next room. Almost sounded like laughter, this enraged Pedro. Sienna pulled him back but he shrugged her off. This was it now, he was angry, he wanted to shoot up the whole room. He kicked down the door. 3 men sat at a table playing cards. 2 fairly short men, tanned complexion. One at the end of the table was pale and skinny. He wore big gold rings and had a moustache. Pedro pulled out his strap and waved it in the air.)

Pedro: Nobody move! One move and I will blow your brains across this whole place. Where is my brother?

Sienna: You heard him asshole!

Pedro: Where is he??!

(Ricardo stepped forward smiling with his hands raised, his gold rings glistened under the light of the chandelier.)

Ricardo: You must be Pedro. Good evening.

Pedro: Listen-

Ricardo: This is my home I have to welcome you no?

Pedro: Give me my brother, so we can end this.

Ricardo: And who is this pretty lady?

Sienna: Shut up asshole.

Ricardo: Sorry to be so crude, I just wanted to make the atmosphere a little less serious. If you don't laugh you will cry. 

Pedro: You have 10 seconds.

Ricardo: Do you have my money?

Pedro: You ain't getting money, you can have your life.

Ricardo: That wasn't the deal amigo. (He was sweating.)

Pedro: We got a new deal now. I get my brother, your boys give Sienna all the work and money. 

(Shots were fired outside the house. Pedro grinned.)

Pedro: You hear that music outside? The game is over for you pussy. 

Ricardo: Is that so?

Pedro: 5 seconds.

Ricardo: Where is the money?

Pedro: 4 seconds.

Ricardo: Listen you can't play this game, this is not how it works.

Pedro: 3 seconds.

Ricardo: Ok wait, listen to me-

Pedro: 2 seconds.

Ricardo: Look-

(In one swift movement Sienna took the bottle from the table and smashed it on the side of Pedro's head. It shattered immediately. He fell backwards and his gun dropped. He was on all fours now. Ricardo whistled and all the men outside including Sienna's men came in. Pedro's head was swirling as the men came in. They were all laughing. Ricardo grabbed Pedro and shoved him against the wall and smiled in his face. It was a set up, Pedro should have known better. Now he was going to suffer. He was so stupid for trusting Sienna. She still wasn't over Bianca's death.)

Ricardo: Bring up his brother, take him outside, we can have a family re-union. (He pulled in Sienna and kissed her on the lips.) You did good flower, you did good my love. The plan worked, you led him straight to me, I knew he was too stupid. This son of a bitch got your sister killed. You can get your revenge however you want mami.

(A few minutes later the henchmen dragged out Jese and Pedro together. Pedro caught eye contact with Jese. He looked battered but he still smiled at Pedro.)

Jese: Brother, you found me.

Pedro: Ha! Always brother!

Ricardo: Brotherly love! Where is the other rat brother? He ran to the sewers as well? Where are all your friends Jese.?

Jese: You scared away all my friends and my goons but you have brought my brother to me. I don't care about those rats. 

Ricardo: Sounds poetic. Now how would you like to die? I have all your business and Sienna has them too. You have nothing to live for. Your brothers left you here all alone and now you have nothing.

Jese: You think this whore will take you anywhere far?

Ricardo: Watch your mouth!

Pedro: Jese!

Sienna: You have always been stupid, you don't learn! (She screams in anger.)

Jese: You know we didn't wish no harm on Bianca, is this how you are gonna repay her?

Sienna: SHUT UP! SHUT UP!

Ricardo: Ok lets end this, too much disrespect this evening.

(Ricardo pulled out his gun and raised it above Pedro's forehead.)

Pedro: I'm sorry I couldn't come earlier brother.

Jese: You came on time amigo.

(Sienna held her pistol above Jese's head. Her hand was trembling.)

Ricardo: Do you need help mami. Let me assist you exterminate this punk.

(He lowered his gun and slid behind Sienna and gripped her hand and kissed her neck.)

Ricardo: Shoot.

Sienna: Yes..I will shoot..

Ricardo: Don't talk mami, finish it, they took your sister.

(She trembled.)

(Both Jese and Pedro closed their eyes. All of a sudden sirens could be heard and there was a crash. A loud voice could be heard on a megaphone. "Ricardo Cormega come out with your hands up". An array of bodies scattered. All the henchmen fled the scene. Pedro and Jese looked at each other confused. In the midst Jese saw a gun on the floor. He rushed to pick it up. He looked around frantically and grabbed Sienna who was trying to scale the wall.)

Pedro: Nooooo!!!!

Jese: She was gonna kill us brother.

Pedro: If you kill her we are all going to jail, we lose everything, lets split whilst we can.

(Ricardo saw her in the corner of his eyes but he didn't hang back, he left.)

Sienna: Please let me go, I wasn't going to do it.

Pedro: Jese!

(Jese let her go. One of the men that was holding Jese in the basement dropped Jese's phone, Jese dived on it and stashed it in his pocket. Pedro and Jese scaled the wall and ran down the back streets. Pedro followed Jese. He knew the best hidden spots. They ran and ran and ran until they were in a local park. Jese switched on the phone and dialled frantically.)

Jese: K Dawg! Where you at?

K Dawg: Yoooo! You out? What? 

Jese: Come and get us, we are at the park by 56th street. 

Pedro: Ask him where Fernando is!

K Dawg: Yoo! I'm with him now, we coming.

(15 minutes later, Fernando pulled up. He rushed to their aid, both men were battered and bruised. He helped them into the car.)

Jese: It was you that called the feds Nando?

Fernando: Yes. I remebered the address, I figured you would get to that place quite late so I called the cops.

Pedro: So wait, all that shit you was pulling about going back in front of Sienna was a front??!! That was a good idea bro, you saved our lives! HAHAHA!

K Dawg: Damn.

Pedro: We can go home now.

Fernando: Jese, I'm not discussing this with you. You are leaving this place ok?

Jese: Ahh damn.

Pedro: Damn what?

Jese: You damn right, lets get out of this place.

Scene 8

2 years later...

(Music blasted out of the speakers. Sounds of Calypso and Reggaeton. The family were celebrating the 2 year anniversary of their business. They raised money which was also to go to charity. They booked an area of the park. There were 3 BBQ grills, grilling meat, fish and chicken.  Eliza ran around with her cousins and school friends. Stacy's sons played soccer with Jamal and his friends. The sun blazed down, Pedro walked around topless. He had never been this happy before. He drank champagne with his brothers, Uncle Carlos was doing salsa with their Auntie.)

Jese: Damn, when I think about all the years I wasted in Compton, risking my life and freedom it wasn't worth it.

Fernando: We all made mistakes.

Pedro: Look this is what life is about, family, friends and food. We didn't do too badly huh?

Jese: This is the life bro, lets not forget beutiful women too. (He eyed up Stacy's group of friends.)

Fernando: Haha! Slow down boy!

(Pedro grinned.)

Pedro: Ok its time.

(Fernando and Jese grinned.)

Pedro: Ok QUICK SPEECH!

(Everybody gathered around and faced Pedro. He didn't care for celebrations and parties but this was bigger than him. He wanted to show people that no matter what mistakes they have made they could change their lives.)

Pedro: I just wanted to thank you all for coming here today. I won't talk too long. I just want to enjoy yourselves, eat , drink, dance and be merry. I want to thank my brothers for helping me hold it down and staying focused. I would like to thank Stacy my one and only. (Come up here baby girl. She walked through the crowd and everybody clapped.)

Pedro: Baby I love you so much, you helped me with ideas that people here don't even know about, I don't know how much I can thank you but I can only show you how much I love you.

(He went down on one knee and the crowd gasped.)

Pedro: Will you marry me?

Stacy: YESS YESS YESS!

(The crowd clapped and cheered.)

End scene