When I got the call from Seven, I was somewhat expecting it. I had been popping up at her trap spots, so I knew it was a matter of time before she’d want to ask questions. I had to admit, she was tempting. Young. Exotic. Lineage Street Royalty. I was intrigued, and I was ready to play. But the business was to gain her trust and then pull the plug on her. I hadn’t figured out how I was going to handle Kev.

Although Seven was dressed to kill, and looking like she wanted to fuck, she went straight into business mode.

“Why are you checking on my spots?”

I smiled. “I’m not checking on your spots per se. I’m just checking out the competition.”

“I’m delighted to hear you say that; it brings me to the business at hand. Instead of us competing with one another, why can’t we help each other eat?”

“I’m listening.”

“And again, I’m delighted that you are. Let’s move over here.” She motioned to the round table where she had a laptop open. “Here is my proposal.”

I took my seat.

“Now what you see, I’m sure you are familiar with, is a map of the city. Red is my territory, blue is . . .”

Seven proceeded to lay out her plan for a city takeover. This chick had a shrewd mind, which included getting rid of Kevin. That was some grimy ass shit on her part, but it was to be expected. Without a doubt, she was the daughter of a mob boss.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

RICK

Rick, Congratulations! I know your daughter has been born, but when are you going to get back and see about your son? Your bloodline who will carry your name. Nina’s text was nice-nasty, but I had a more important text to respond to. Kay had texted me from China: Time to release that formula.

Shit! Now? That was my response. What the hell is going on? This was way too soon. We were supposed to sit on this for at least another year or two. And it was our last option. Our ace in the hole and we were giving it up already? This was the formula for a new drug more addictive than crack cocaine, heroin, and meth.

I knew this meant Trae and Kay were in more than a little trouble. It meant life or death.

“Baby, why are you packing?” Kyra asked, drowsily. She had woken up before I could finish. Destiny was in her arms and the baby was nuzzling, nursing a little, then dozing back off.