Frio Verana: Part 3 (Finale)

Frio Verana: Part 3

Scene 1

 (Freddy sat on his couch counting money. He had two chicks at the table counting the rest of his stacks. He hit a big lick. Master P 'Ice Cream Man' could be heard pumping through the speakers. He took a swig of Moet straight from the bottle.)

Freddy: MANNNN I HIT A LICK! I'm finna retire God Dayummmmmm!


Rose: You damn right baby! You hit the jackpot.

Freddy: Damn ma, you looking like a jackpot too.

Lily: Umm what about me?

(Both women were Japanese and dressed to kill. They were Freddy's workers but he kept them for fun as well. Both of them moved towards Freddy and he licked his lips.)

Freddy: Damn ladies, there is enough sugar for all of you beleed that!

(There was a knock on the door.)

Freddy: Whoever that is, you better leave that stoop!

(The door knocked again.)

Freddy: Nigga! GET OFF MY STOOP!

Rose: It's probably business, we are still waiting for one more drop off.

Freddy: Baby! I need you right now-

(Door knocks again.)

Rose: I will answer it!

(Rose got up and walked to the door and peered behind the blinds. It was Jamal hoodied up. She looked at Freddy and looked back at Jamal. )

Freddy: Who is that baby?

(Jamal nodded at Rose. She slowly opened the door.)

Freddy: Hey man, whats up? It's a bit late for visitors.

(Jamal walked in. He looked a hot mess, he looked a shadow of his former vibrant and dominant self.)

Jamal: Yeah well I was in the neighbourhood, thought I might stop by and visit my homie. You dig?

Freddy: Look man we are even-

Jamal: Relax, I don't want you to do anything.

Freddy: I heard you got into some trouble. I don't need to get mixed up in anymore headache.

Jamal: Ladies, could you leave me and my homie for a few minutes. I promise you you can get back to your party in a few minutes.

(Both of them left the room and went upstairs without any fuss. Jamal looked over at the money and smirked.)

Freddy: Stack looks ight don't it?

Jamal: Yeah, cold summer huh?

Freddy: Frio Verana up in Spanish Harlem.

Jamal: Listen, you know I've had some trouble recently.

Freddy: The streets talk. Hugo got the game in a choke hold. He is wilding, nobody can stop him. He has almost every market.

Jamal: He thinks he does-

Freddy: No he does! He shattered your family, you've lost your job and you lost your pretty vanilla district attorney. He has full control and he hasn't had to buss a sweat. He hasn't fired a shot and he is in control. That is the scary thing about this dude. He doesn't do any dirt. He doesn't talk much. He is like a ghost in these streets.

Jamal: Somebody must see him. He must be connected to somebody.

Freddy: He controls a lot of the shipment of drugs coming in and out of Spanish Harlem. Word is Smokey was one of his main connects but he must have replaced him by now. But I don't know how you will stop that because this dude probably has all of his money in offshore accounts. There are no trails to him.

Jamal: Hmmm..

Freddy: Look man. You can't win this one. Smokey was a wild boy. He left trails, he got gassed, it was easy to catch him. Hugo is different. Even if you get to him, one of his brothers will kill you. You can't win everything. I mean at least your kid and baby mum are alive. You can just move away and forget everything that happened.

Jamal: I can't run away like some gutter rat. I run away and then what? I will still be a week-end daddy, and he will continue to plunge the city into a black hole un challenged.

Freddy: Unchallenged Ha!

Jamal: What?!

Freddy: Sometimes you have to cut your losses and bounce. I don't even mind giving you some cash. You've helped me-

Jamal: I'm good, I'd rather some information.

Freddy: Look I mainly deal with weed now, I dont deal with no coke. That hardcore stuff isn't for me anymore. It's more money but its all linked back to Hugo. I want to keep my nose clean.

Jamal: So you don't got nothing? NOTHING? ANYTHING?!

(Freddy looked at Jamal, he looked desperate. Freddy had never seen him like this.)

Freddy: Ok look, downtown there is a club called Diamonds. He has parties out there. All the ballers and hustlers go there. Some of the illest rappers and fly hunnies go there too. He rarely attends himself but if the rumours I heard are true he has hit another part of the coke market with the Dominicans, so he is probably going out there to celebrate tonight. Thats one thing I know, thats his pattern, whenever he hits something big he will have a party. Whether he goes or not is another story.

Jamal: When is the party?

Freddy: Tonight.

Jamal: Tonight?

(Jamal shot up and walked to the door.)

Freddy: Hey man, you sure this is a good idea? He will get you killed if he sees you man!

(Jamal slammed the door behind him.)

Scene 2

(Diamonds was downtown, far from the grimey hood but not exactly in the suburbs. Cadillacs and Benz's were outside the club like a car show. Chicks  were ddressed wearing tight dresses and stilettos, All of them seeking the thrill of being with one of the drug dealers or rappers. Everybody looked fly. Pimps came out with all of their hoes to pull some clientele. Jamal watched everybody from opposite the club. He was dressed and ragged and ripped clothing. He wore shades and a NY cap. He had a bottle of vodka beside him, he sat by a lightpost dressed as a hobo. He wanted to go in the club and get a proper look but figured the best way was to hide in plain sight. People walked past and dropped change in his lap. There was a lot poverty in Harlem, everybody knew this, hobos were dotted around Harlem. Jamal set up a few soup kitchen schemes around the city for them.)

Jamal: Sir can I get a dollar? Ma'am can I get a dollar?

Gentleman: Here you go buddy, take this.

Jamal: You are generous, God bless you.

(Jamal looked down the street. He was convinvced that Hugo would arrive tonight. Freddy said he hardly comes but he needed something. He had been on stake out almost 2 hours his chest was getting tight. The days were hot but the nights were bitterly cold.)

Lady: Here you go sir, take this.

Jamal: Thank you Ma'am. God bless you.

(Lady smiles and walks down the street. Jamal rubbed his hands and put his head down. He was on stake out, he didn't want to attract too much attention. Suddenly there was a buzz. There was a buzz from the begginning of the night but this time there seemed to be something stirring in the atmosphere.  A Rolls Royce pulled up. A man dressed in trousers, shirt and waistcoat scurried to the door to open it. 3 stunning women came out. Followed by 4 fair skinned men and one dark skinned gentleman. It had to be him, he was on the big side, he wasn't fat but he certainly wasn't slim. He had a bald head and a big smile. He bared 3 gold teeth in his mouth. Jamal could hear people gushing and whipering. "Nigga thats Hugo! Hustler of the year bwoi! Jamal knew it! It took him all of the composure to stop him getting up and doing something stupid. The red carpet was rolled out for Hugo and he walked through with a swagger and confidence. Jamal felt sick, he wwanted to shoot at him in front of everybody. But he knew he would get shot onsite, lose his life and possibly endanger Zack again. He took out his polaroid camera from underneath the blanket on his lap. He snapped pictures of him and the men he was with and the license plate of the car. The promotor came outside with some more women to greet him and his friends and brought them in. Jamal watched him go inside. He felt unbelieable rage but he also felt fear. This man was anti hero of Harlem, Jamal was the real hero of Harlem but he was all alone. )

End Scene

Scene 3

Adam: You did a stake out by yourself? In front of the club?

Jamal: Yep.

Adam: Ok, you do realise this is the most dangerous man in Harlem? You do realise he has informants everywhere? He's got cops on pay roll too!

Jamal: Look, I have to do what I have to do for my family. He didn't see my raggedy ass.

Adam: Look man, I understand why you are doing this but you can't be reckless. 

Jamal: Look. (Jamal threw the pictures of him on the table.)

Adam: What does this even mean?

Jamal: It's a lead.

Adam: A lead? To what? This is a dude going to the club. This doesn't mean anything. This guy will go back into hiding for the next few months. The DA and F.B.I will not chases ghosts. There have been whispers about him but nothing credible.

Jamal: What? This is credible! 

Adam: And in case you have forgotten, you have been relived of your duties.

Jamal: Thank you for reminding me.

Adam: I can't bring this in with me I'm sorry.

(Jamal slumped in the sofa with his hands on his face.)

Jamal: I can't win this, it's over (Sobs) Adam I've never saeen somebody like this guy. The hood worship him and the high end people worship him too. Bringing him down with any help from the D.A. or F.B.I is impossible.

Adam: Look, there is one way it can happen. There is only one way we can do this.

Jamal: We?

Adam: Yes. I will help your sorry ass. You have helped me alot before its only right that I get involved. If my skinny white ass gets killed I will come back to haunt you I swear to God! 

Jamal: So what is the master plan?

Adam: We have to go Rogue, undercover. Not quite undercover, close but not too close.

Jamal: What? That's dangerous. I can't bring you into this Adam. It's ugly enough and it's my fault.

Adam: I'm not asking permission.

Jamal: Thanks man.

Adam: Look, the D.A will not help, F.B.I. won't help, the feds won't help. We need to think about this carefully. This guy has informants all over the place. He has a lot of influence. My guess was that somebody inside the bureau tipped him off about your address. That is the main reason you shouldn't look to get support from the authorities because somebody could set you up.

Jamal: Hmm...I had my own informants on the streets so I guess it could work the other way round too. 

Adam: Ok I have a plan.

Jamal: Money trail? Track drug deals?

Adam: No we have to be more slick than that, but brazen as well. Almsot like that stupid stunt you pulled outside the club the other night.  

Jamal: Ok lets get it started.

End Scene

Scene 4 

 (Adam and Jamal come off the highway and drive past a few stores. They pass a Walmart and a Mcdonalds. Adam is wearing a fake moustache and blonde wig. Jamal is in shades and has his jacket up to his nose.. They go through the drive thru and order a coffee. They sit in the car and wait.)

Jamal: You look ridiculous, I know you said we have to be low key but this is a joke! Ha!

Adam: I've been doing this a long time, you can't give your ass out for these bastards. If I look like Mrs Doubtfire, then so be it.

Jamal: Naw dawg, just admit you like dressing up!

Adam: Asshole.

Jamal: Ight so we wait across from the store or do we go in?

Adam: No we wait.

(They passed the Rolls Royce store. It was a popular branch. People come to there to rent or buy. They parked in the parking lot and hopped out. They walked to the store and walked around for a while examining the cars and talking to staff about what the deals were. Whilst talking with staff Adam and Jamal were scouring the cameras, fire exits and security. After about 20 minutes 2 large bald fair skinned men walked into the store. 2 staff members came from across the room to greet these men. Both of them were tatted up, they looked south American. Jamal instantly recognised one of them from the club. One of them were with Hugo at Diamonds.)

Adam: You ASSHOLE!

Jamal: (Whispers) What!?

Adam: (Whispers) Play along you idiot.

Jamal: You asshole!

Adam: I knew we should have gone to the Mercedez dealership this is trash!

Jamal: No! We need a Rolls to get all of these bitches!

Adam: No! This is not how we did it in California.

(The two men that came in stared and smirked at Adam and Jamal going back and forth.)

Barry: Umm gentleman could you please keep it down please. 

Adam: Listen these rates don't make sense to me Barry. Are you the manager?

Barry: Yes-

Adam: Listen, I'm partying tonight, I just got divorced and I need to roll out and get some bad bitches.

(Adam's face was red with rage. He was breathing heavily.)

Barry: Sorry about this Carlos. This normally doesn't happen in here, we are usually a quiet dealership. (He shot a glaring look at Adam and Jamal.)

Adam: Hey asshole, I hope you aren't ripping off these good men too.

Carlos: No they are good with us I assure you, you will get any girl you want in one of these bad boys.

Adam: Yes? How sure?

Carlos: In Harlem these chicks love the lifestyle. They will wet their panties when they see you in this hermano. 

Jamal: What kind of chicks we talking? Where?

Barry: Look-

Carlos: Listen, I don't know if you want to pick up one of these but if you turn up to my club tonight you will get all the chicks you ever dream't of.

Jamal: Hmmmm.

Carlos: Look if you don't believe me that's fine. Me and my brother Sandro own a club called Starlight. It's on the edge of Spanish Harlem. It's classy but the chicks there are far from classy if you catch my drift.

(The men laugh heartily.)

Adam: Ok boozoo, I mean Barry, I will take that red joint over there. And Carlos if I don't get any pussy tonight I will shut your club down you got me!?

Carlos: Take care Hermano.

(Adam and Jamal went to the till at the other side of the room and signed the paper work and exchanged the cash. They left and stood outside the car lot.)

Jamal: You need an oscar.

Adam: Damn right.

Jamal: Still think you over did it with this wig though.

Adam: Desperate times call for desperate wigs.

Jamal: HAHA!

Adam: I hope my performance didn't distract you from the tattoos.

Jamal: They were tatted up from head to toe.

Adam: You see that knife tattoo on their necks. It's what the Dominican drug cartel have. New members usually get tattoos to show loyalty. 

Jamal: So Hugo is in cahoots with the Domincan Cartel?

Adam: This is going to be fun

Jamal: You notice the security too? 

Adam: Yep. They ain't slick. As soon as they came in he went to the moniter and turned it off. I wouldn't be suprised if they are peddling cash through this store.

Jamal: One of the ladies on the till had the tattoo on her neck too.

Adam: This is going to be fun isn't it?

Jamal: This is dangerous, really dangerous.

Adam: You want to bail out? 

Jamal: Maybe this is too deep, this is how I lost my family in the first place. I feel like I'm running around in circles.

Adam: This is your call man...

Jamal: Ok we go to the club and then what?

Adam: We can't start a fire fight no way but we can get a feel of these guys. 

Jamal: Ok that makes sense but if I tell you to leave we leave, don't argue with me. You got it?

Adam: Got it!

End Scene

Scene 5 

(Later that night....)

(Adam and Jamal pull up to the club. Both dressed in suits, Adam is sporting another wig with shades. They are wearing tuxes remniscent of John Travolta and Samuel L jackson in Pulp fiction.)

Jamal: This wig thing...

Adam: You better not bwoi...

Jamal: Hey I don't judge.

Adam: Stay focused pal. Look at this place, is it anything like Diamonds?

Jamal: No way, the chicks here are just as hot but its definitely not high end like Diamonds. 

Adam: So how we gonna do this? Just walk in? 

Jamal: No we need to study it. Treat it like a crime scene. (Jamal puts on his fedora hat and nods at Adam.) Over there look.

(A man dressed with a white shirt and apron comes outside the back of the club and throws out the trash.) This way Adam.

Adam: You think there is a ladder that takes us up?

Jamal: Hopefully, let's just take a look around here.

(They creep around the back of the club assessing the environemnt. The back streets are dim and dank. They sift through the trash cans, no signs of guns or narcotics. They look at each other frustrated.)

Adam: Do we go in?

Jamal: It's not safe, that's way too close.

Adam: Well we can't hang out here.

(Bang! A door slammed behind them. Both men pulled out their guns and slid behind the trash can.)

Diane: Hey papi!

Carlos: MMMM baby! I've been waiting for you mami!

Diane: I know you have been very busy in these streets. 

Carlos: Give me a few more months and we will get a pretty place and I will give you some babies mami.

Diane: You are out here 24/7 I won't hold my breath! 

Carlos: This is all so I can treat you nice mami. Soon we will go out to Dom Rep and we won't have to stay in this stinking city anymore.

Diane: Hmmm no rush, lets go inside and party eh?

Carlos: No darling, I have a meeting with the rest of the cartel. You can wait in the club for me or wait in my car.

Diane: Give me your keys I will wait outside papi.

Carlos: Good girl we can have a private party after.

(They kiss and Carlos heads inside. Jamal and Adam can hear his large footsteps above him and he slams a door inside. They both slide out and scale up the ladder on the side of the building. Once they get to the top they crawl to the edge and a light could be seen. They crawl forward and there is a window. A group of men are sat in the room. Carlos and Sandro sat there. The other men Jamal saw at Diamonds were there too. They sat and spoke seriously. They could hardly hear what was said.)

Adam: What the hell are they saying?

Jamal: I don't know, I can barely hear anything. They are speaking predominantly spanish as well.

Adam: Look at their faces. Who do you think is the one in charge? Must be that Carlos dude.

(Carlos was walking around the room gesturing at everybody.)

Jamal: Look.

Adam: I am looking.

Jamal: No look at him. He's said the same thing 3 times. I think he is saying 'Cut off' or 'finish'

Adam: He is dusting his hands. Is something finished? What could be finished?

(Jamal crawled closer)

Adam: Jamal, stop, fall back!

Jamal: No, I need to hear this, this could lead to Hugo.

Adam: Jamal!

(Jamal was directly above the room pressed against the window.)

Carlos: CUT HIM OFF!

Sammy: Senor Hugo brings us alot of work and money, it would be crazy to cut him off. 

Carlos: Forget money and work we have that. Everybody that does business with him gets screwed. 

Sammy: He has been good for business.

Carlos: He has been very good. And I like him a lot, this isn't personal. It's just business, we need to change our market and our dealings.

Jamal: Holy Shit

(Jamal moved back towards Adam, his phone drops and knocks the window above the room. The men look up at the window. Jamal jumps back.)

Adam: Holy shit! Get back here! Did they see you?!

Jamal: We need to get more information-

Adam: No we need to get out.

(Tyres could be heard screeching from down the street. A black van pulled up behind the club, directly underneath Jamal and Adam. 5 men hopped out of the van dressed in all black. A lady hopped out of the driving seat. It was Diane who they had just seen in the alley with Carlos.)

Diane: They are in there! Quick!

(Adam and Jamal were confused. They crouched above the scene. In a flash the men pushed through the door and shots were fired. The men used silencers. All that could be heard were the cries of the Dominican cartel. All the men were laid out on the floor in a pool of blood. The men in black stood above them wearing balaclavas and they laughed. Carlos was crawling holding his leg. One of the men moved forward towards him. 'Stop it you rat. don't move, if you move another inch I will blow your brains out'. Jamal knew that voice. He recognised it immediately. It was Hugo. He took off his balaclava.)

Hugo: Amigo. I didn't want it to end like this. But this is just business huh? We all get screwed , you wanted to screw me but I got to screw you first. This is the nature of the game. 

Carlos: You bastard.

Hugo: I can't take all of the credit though, your wonderful princess helped me. I know you had plans for her and the future but sometimes life is full of suprises. 

(Diane walked into the room smiling.)

Carlos: Puta!

Hugo: Shh! This isn't how we speak to women, have some class Carlos. Diane I think he needs a kiss.

(Diane pulls out a gun and sends two shots to Carlos's head. Adam and Jamal gasp.)

Jamal: We need to at least call the cops.

Adam: Lets get the hell out of here first before we get shot too!

(Adam and Jamal slid down and ran through the back streets. Jamal's heart was pumping. He had never been so scared in his life. He was now in way too deep. This cold wind was cutting his face, tears streamed down his face. After 4 blocks they started to slow down. )

Adam: This is, this is just-

Jamal: Crazy? Insane? Deadly?

Adam: Truly this is a mess. 

Jamal: This guy is too powerful. That chick, she managed to get inside the cartel and snake them. 

Adam: That is not an easy thing to do.

(They both panted and looked towards the street where the club was.)

Adam: Call the cops sweet heart. We haven't got all day.

(Jamal reached in his pocket but couldn't feel his phone He began to pat his legs pankicking.)

Adam: No, no, no, no!

Jamal: I left it on the roof!

Adam: We have to get that phone back.

Jamal: No just use the pay phone to call the cops. 

(Jamal jogged to the phone. All of a sudden police cars swept into the area. Adam fist bumped.)

Jamal: That was quick..

Adam: Good job right?

Jamal: I guess... but who would have called the cops? Nobody heard the shots but us.

Adam: Maybe the staff in the club saw them, who cares, the cops are here.

Jamal: Both men jogged to the scene. Some of the road was taped up.

Adam: You better stay low in case anybody from the team sees you. You are meant to be off duty . 

Jamal: Ok let's go through the side. 

(They both slide through the back to the side of the building. The van was still outside the building with the doors wide open.)

Adam: What the hell?Why are the cops at the front of the building and not the back?

Jamal: Adam? What is going on?

(Another car whizzed past, followed by another police car.)

Jamal: Quick!

(Both men dived into the bushes.)

(10 seconds later the men in all black came out of the room where the meeting was held. All of their balaclavas were off. 3 cops came out of the car and greeted them. Adam and Jamal stared in shock.)

Hugo: Just a bit of mess, nothing too bad. 

Cop: No problem boss.

Hugo: Thank you gentleman. This will be the last favour I will need from you all. They all nodded at him and walked inside the building. One of the cops started to tape off the area.

(Another police car pulled up and the door opened. 'Hugo where are you going?!' Jamal couldn't see the man who spoke but he recognised the voice. It was Charles. 'Hugo get back here right now'.)

Hugo: Is that Charles?

Charles: It's me you son of a bitch get back here!

Hugo: Ha!

Charles: Ha! You son of a bitch! You think you can leave here without saying thank you?

(Jamal clenched his fist and gritted his teeth. He was seething. He felt sick. Adam signalled Jamal to be quiet.)

Hugo: Just another shoot out at a rowdy club, simple stuff. 

(Hugo and Charles shook hands and laughed.)

Hugo: Thank you, much appreciated as usual. I owe you a drink Sir.

Charles: When you are ready we will catch up, right now we gotta clean this mess. Get out of here and I will be in touch with you.

(Both men nodded and went their seperate ways. The men in Hugo's crew hopped into the van and sped off into the darkness. Jamal was seething. He watched Charles waddle about and give instructions to the cop outside the building.)

Charles: Tape up the whole block, tidy up this mess and get out of here. We can't have others in the department or F.B.I get a sniff of this.

 Charles laid him off work. He took him out so he couldn't tackle Hugo. Eveerything all made sense. Jamal knew dirty cops and dirty detectives but he hadn't seen anything like this before. He was shaking with rage. He hopped out of the bushes and pulled out his pistol and pointed it at Charles.)

Charles: Jamal!? What are you gonna do with that?

Jamal: You son of a bitch!

Charles: Look, this isn't what you think.

Adam: What is it then?

Jamal: Charles.

(The cop stood next to Charles took out his gun and pointed it at Jamal. Adam lunges towards him and tackles him to the ground. He pistol whips him and he falls backward knocked out. Charles puts his hands up.)

Charles: Relax.

Jamal: Get in the car.

Charles: Relax Jamal.

Jamal: If you say anything else I will send one in your leg sick bastard.

Charles: Look you can't win this.

Jamal: Get in the car, we are going for a ride.

(Charles walks inside the car, takes the car keys off the knocked out cop and hops in the front seat. Jamal smacks Charles with the butt of the gun. Charles welps in pain.)

Charles: He said he would kill me if I didn't-

Jamal: Shut up you bitch-

Charles: Look-

Jamal: Take out your phone dial his number and call him now, don't say another word.

(Charles takes out his phone and dials a number and it rings. Jamal snatches it from him.)

Hugo: Hello Charles-

Jamal: No not Charles, it's ME!

Hugo: Well well well. I thought you were done for Jamal. Family gone, lost your job and lost your lover. Charles assured me you were done for.

Jamal: Well I'm still here and I'm on your neck. No more talking, give me a time and location and we meet up once and for all and we finish this.

Hugo: Ha! Lazaurus! I like your spirit! Come to 15th street off Harlem boulevard, opposite Mama's bakery. I will be waiting. 

(Jamal hung up. He sent a text and switched off the phone and threw it outside the window.)

Jamal: Slow down Adam. (Adam begins to slow down the vehicle.) I need to get this out the car as well. He looked at Charles and elbowed him in his stomach. He opened the car door and kicked him out. Adam looked at Jamal in the mirror and nodded.

End Scene

Scene 6

(Rain started to beat down heavily. The weather was humid but the rain made everything refreshing somewhat. Jamal parked up the car a block away from the the meeting point. He had two pistols tucked in his waist and a vest on. He walked down the streets with his hands up. He knew Hugo wouldn't be by himself. There would be shooters on the roof waiting for him to make one foul move and then it would be Goodnight. The rain drops slapped his face as he walked down the street.. He scans the surroundings carefully. He gritted his teeth. Soon enough he could see Hugo's crew. One emerging out of the shadows one by one. None of them wearing balaclavas anymore. Soon enough he saw Hugo stood next to Diane. Two men walked towards Jamal and took his guns off him, they patted him down and shoved him in front of Hugo. Hugo smiled and bared his gold teeth. In the flesh, face to face, the man who has ruined his life. Jamal kept his face nuetral but inside he was boiling with rage.)

Hugo: Hey listen, If it counts for anything I have been impressed. You are a true warrior. But you are on the wrong side. Or maybe we are on the same side, it depends how you see it. 

Jamal: I'm not like you. 

Hugo: You think you are better than me? You look after Harlem, I look after Harlem, you have your way, I have mine. You see life is all about perspective.

Jamal: Go to hell.

Hugo: HAHAHAHA!

Jamal: (Spits on the floor)

Hugo: You think you're better than me? You can't keep your family happy or safe, you are sleeping with a married woman. You see we are all trash but my trash pays more, a lot more. It's a shame, we could have come to an agreement.

(Hugo moves in quickly and kicks Jamal in his gut. He kicks him again and pistol whips him twice. Jamal coughs up blood. Hugo grabs his jaw and laughs in his face.)

Hugo: How did you think this would end? You took out Smokey, you took out a few people, very impressive but I am the boss. You can't cross me. Those guys were a contingency plan, just like the Dominican Cartel. They each had their role and now you have yours. Goodnight. 

(Jamal falls to his knees and wheezes and coughs. Hugo pulls out his gun.)

Hugo: Goodnight..

(Suddenly the street lights shut off. The group shout in confusion.)

Hugo: What the hell?

(Jamal pulls out a knife from his sock and stabs Hugo in his foot in the cover of the darkness. Shots fire off in the dark.)

Hugo: ARGHHHHH! I want him dead Kill him! Kill him now!!

(Jamal rolls under the car clutching his knife. The street lights are still off. the road is still pitch black. One of the men cry out in pain. One of the crew hit another member in the cross fire.)

Jamal: I'm here asshole.

(He rolled under the under and dives behind another. Multiple shots are fired at the van.)

Hugo: Kill him!

(A loud noise could be heard over head. It was a chopper, he started bearing down on the scene. A man hung out of the chopper holding a loud megaphone. It was Adam with F.B.I agents.)

Adam: Hugo you are under arrest if you move you will be shot on site, I repeat if you try to escape you will be killed. 

(The Street lights came on. One man lay on the floor beside Hugo in a pool of blood, Diane was slumped on the floor her head bleeding, she was barely breathing. Several vans sped onto the seen. F.B.I agents surrounded Hugo and his crew. Hugo still held his gun.)

Adam: Lower your weapon now! I will not say it again!

(Hugo dropped his gun on the floor and dropped to his knees.)

Adam: Hugo Jones you are under arrest for drug trafficking, murder and conspiracy to murder. You have the right to remain silent anything you say now can be used against you in the court of law. 

(Jamal slid out from behind the car. Blood pouring from his mouth. He laughed at Hugo as he got trundled off into the police car. Paramedics ran to Jamal to clean him up.)

Jamal: I'm fine, I'm fine! YOO ADAM!

Adam: My man! We did it! We got that asshole. We need to round up the rest of the informants as well but we got the big cheese.

Jamal: Where is she? Did she come through? Did she get my message.

Adam: Yes she did. Here she is.

(Melanie hopped out of a car. She ran towards Jamal and hugged him.)

Jamal: Thank you so much baby! This wouldn't have happened without you.

Melanie: Hmm, you are lucky I got that message in time it could have gone all wrong. 

Jamal: I know, I'm sorry about all of this but I guess-

Melanie: It all paid off baby don't worry.

Jamal: What about-

Melanie: Don't worry Zack and Lara are fine. As soon as I saw your message, Adam called me and I got the F.B.I to get to Lara's place. They are fine. Luckily Hugo thought you were all alone. I don't blame him for thinking you were that stupid. 

Adam: Jamal, phonecall.

Jamal: Hello? 

Zack: Daddy! Are you ok? 

Jamal: Yes I'm fine! I had a busy day at work today, are you ok? 

Zack: Work? Mummy said your not working anymore.

Jamal: I know its a bit complicated but I am just happy you and your Mom are ok. You stay strong I will see you.

Lara: Hello?

Jamal: Hey.

Lara: You son of a -

Jamal: I'm sorry I'll explain everything-

Lara: Nothing to explain, I'm with the F.B.I they told me you saved the day, you saved us all. You and Adam did a good job. Thank you.

Jamal: Thank you.

Lara: You just get some rest and I will come down with Zack as soon as possible. 

Jamal: Thank you for understanding, I had to protect us. 

Lara: I appreciate that. (Hangs up)

Melanie: Hmmm Mr Big shot saves spanish Harlem again.

Jamal: Sounds like a cool headline.

Adam: You bored of the limelight by now.

Jamal: Yes, yes I am. 

Adam: Liar! ha!

Jamal: Thanks for putting in that call buddy! I wqouldn't have made it without you. That magic trick with the lights was quite inspiring as well.

Adam: I got some tricks up my sleeve. 

Jamal: I'm all out of tricks. Although Charles is a snake and I hope he gets locked up for a long time, I think I'm going to be out of the game for a while. No more guns, stake outs or wild wigs!

Adam: That was a low blow!

(Adam walks away bacl to the chopper.)

Melanie: So this is it.

Jamal: Yep this is it.

Melanie: I will miss you, a lot.

Jamal: I'm out the game ma'am, I'm sure will will cross paths again. Once again thank you for putting in that call. If I called the F.B.I they wouldn't have come, only you could have got that task team as quick as you did.

Melanie.: All in a day's work.

Jamal: I guess you are right. Now let me get cleaned up and get some sleep.

End Scene

"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