Introduction
Where there's a bright orange sky and a hot humid breeze, passing through the bayou
close to one
hundred degrees, mosquitoes on the attack, flying
around with the birds and the bees, on a street full of
shacks, and poorly built houses covered by trees.
You might see a squirrel dart up through the branches and hide between the leaves,
and look down at the stray dog, scratching off all the fleas, who's watching the old lady
with all the cats sitting on the porch drinking her tea, who's watching the bad ass kids
across the street break everything they see, at the house where the bass is always
banging, and the tweeters just ring, coming from the car with big shiny rims, getting
washed by the fiend, youngsters posted like security guards looking all mean, afros,
fades, and braids, white tee shirts and jeans, like if the world came crashing down, they
still wouldn't flinch, with a super mean lean and a marijuana stench, the neighborhood
winos turn crates into a bench, with a forever burning passion that only alcohol can
quench, cops pass by and leave just as quick as they came, whoever they take will be
quickly replaced, so it always looks the same, nothing out of the ordinary just the usual
topic, if anything goes down it'll be as hot as the tropics, maybe he'll pass by without
even stopping, and just wave at the ladies that sit on the porch, they eat crawfish and
gossip, about the lady down the street with the bad ass sons, one just got out of jail and
now the other is on the run,
or the woman who had the husband who went to jail for stealing nintendos,or the
woman with the fast ass daughter who sneaks boys in through the window, or the
hooker at the bus stop who's always acting strange,
sitting next to the old lady that digs in that big ass purse
to get that small amount of change, who has the grand daughter who got married and
has since been doing fine, who has the father who wasted his whole life chasing women
and wine, through a neighborhood laced with scandal, in a city filled with corruption, you
got youngsters toting iron and ain't none
of em doing construction.
Chapter 1: The Usual Suspects
Sheila The Gossip Lady Speaks: Girl I seen Gweyn the other day, when she was
on her way to work,
I don't know why she don't quit that job, it don't have that many perks. I can still
remember, how we used to go out on the town, until her and Byron had Derek, that's
when she stopped coming around. We would watch Byron get drunk until he fell off the
stool, but she took to acting all funny when she went back to school . Speaking of
Byron, I seen him the other day, he's usually hanging around
with Dino, when he comes around the way, since him
and Gwyen split up, Byron hasn't had too much to say,
he goes to work and to the liquor store, and that's how he spends his pay. Dino won't
change, he's still running the streets, he just bought another nice car, with his name
stitched in the seats, I hear he hangs in The Raven Lounge, either there or Club
Sweets, whoring around
with Jarell, so there's no telling who he's had between his sheets.
I'll never forget, when Dino and Trish split, she tried to
run him over three times, I guess she got tired of his shit, she busted out all his windows
and burned all his clothes, and left with whatever else he had and threw
it on side of the road, she slapped him in the face, and punched him in the nose, if the
cops wouldn't have came she would've beat him with a pole! I don't know what
happened to Trish, she used to be so sweet, all she did was be faithful, all Dino did was
go out and cheat... every since then they've both been living single, trying to figure out
what to do with ole bad ass Bingo!
Bingo looks up women's skirts, and he goes in old ladies purses, he scratched out all of
the words in his reading book and replaced them with curses, try to get through to
Bingo
and his attitude worsens, he put Ex Lax in the coffee that was brewing for the school
nurses. Bingo's breaking in houses and he's going in cars, he won't be satisfied until he
ends up behind bars, he's already following behind his daddy, dabbling in drugs, he
sneaks out of the house at night and hangs in front of clubs. Trish said every time she
washes clothes and goes through his pockets, she's always finding money, but she
don't never know how he got it, she can't get through to him, no matter how hard she
tries, if she gets anything out of him, it'll probably just be a bunch of lies, she said
whenever they spend time together he always says he'll do right, but he's a completely
different person, as soon as he's out of her sight. The old lady with all the cats said she
seen him with a gun the other night, he's always in some mess and he won't hesitate to
fight, he won't be satisfied until somebody get em, I wouldn't be surprised if he took
Donovan down with him. Donovon (Dozer) lost both of his parents, and his grandmother
is sick, so he needs to stop hanging with Bingo, and straighten up quick, if he gets in
any trouble, that old lady will have a fit, she won't have any money to bail him out, so his
ass will have to sit. Donovon used to be a really good boy, he just made the wrong
friend, now he's running the streets with Bingo, beating up grown men, as cocky as he
is, he should be playing ball, so he can go to the pros and get rich, and take care of us
all. Bingo done got to him, he might as well be a leper, the only time they're not causing
problems is when they're hanging with Stepper, that's
the only thing that keeps them from going out breaking
the law, hanging with Stepper, chasing women like his paw, that boy looks and acts, just
like Jarrell, try to spot the difference between them and you wouldn't be able to tell, he's
already acting manish, and dressing all spiffy, coming around with lipstick on his collar
and a neck full of hickies, he got Keisha running behind him, Trishelle and Vickie, I even
seen him sneaking through that fast ass girl's window, trying to get a quickie, you can't
tell him nothing he thinks he's slicker than oil, every since D.D. gave birth to Stepper,
Jarrell had him spoiled, when D.D. and Jarrell separated it only got worst, anything
Stepper asks for D.D.'s coming out her purse, D.D. swears she's over Jarrell but I'm still
not convinced, they split up years ago, and she's been dating every since, like whatever
Jarrell does, she can do better, that's why they buy Stepper expensive clothes, leather
coats and sweaters, tennis shoes and boots, hats and scarves, he's got the house to
himself and Jarrell is letting him drive his cars, he'll end up being just like his daddy, a
scoundrel and a cheater, the only time they're not chasing girls is when they're shooting
dice with Skeeter.
Skeeter is a hustler, no question about it, that boy chases money like he can't live
without it, he holds really big crap games and breaks all the brutes, he does it all the
time
so I guess it's in his roots, he ends up winning thousands, every time he shoots, then he
walks away grinning, counting all his loot, he's heavy in all the ball games, he gambles
and takes bets, he's been doing it since he was a kid, and hasn't thought about slowing
down yet, he sales anything he gets his hands on, from Mary Jane to pills, his mama
and daddy are strung out, so he pays most of the bills, so he does whatever pleases
him, at his own merit, they would all probably be in jail, if it wasn't for Derek.
Derek's the only one of them who has enough sense to stay out of drama, he makes the
honor roll every year, I guess he gets it from his mama, he does all of his homework,
then he goes to his job when he's finished, he might do a little bit of dirt, but then he'll go
about his business, he worried that old man until he broke down and hired him, he
obviously takes after Gweyn, he has better sense than Byron, hopefully he won't let his
friends have him going astray, if he can maintain those good habits, he'll be successful
one day.
The Breakfast Table
Gweyn: Sit down and eat your breakfast before it gets cold, if you don't put something
on your stomach your tummy will fold. How's everything in school, are you reaching
your goals, your name always looks better when it's on the honor roll. How's everything
on your job, are
you scheduled to work, are your co workers cool, is your boss being a jerk? Can you
carry your work load, or are you just taking up space, are you being productive, can you
keep up with the pace? Take your time and be diligent, don't treat it like a race, if you're
determined and you work hard you'll end up running the place. I'm glad you're starting
out early whatever the case, a good record will come in handy, as you begin the next
phase. You have to start learning how to manage your money, cause this is just a taste,
then you'll already have some saved when you reach the next base. When rainy days
come you'll already be set, you won't need a handout, and you won't have to fret. The
harder you work now, the less you'll have to regret, when you get older you can take it
easy, and you wont have to sweat.
How's everything with you and Areille, are you two doing ok, did I tell you she called for
you, just the other day? You two make a cute couple, I think she's sweet, she has good
manners, and she dresses nice and neat. I'll punch you in the mouth, if you come in my
house, with some crazy ass hoochie with her business all out. I know she helps you with
your home work but don't let that become
a crutch, you have to give her enough space, that way she'll appreciate when she's in
your clutch. You two have plenty of time to grow, so be careful how you touch, I know I
said I like her, but I don't like her that much! You'd better be trying to get ahead, and not
trying to get into anyone's panties,
I am too young and cute, to be trying to be somebody's granny!
I'm Doing Ok
Derek: I'm still doing good in school, but I could be
doing much more, I'm working with a three point five, but I'm trying to get it up to a four.
It's nothing I can't handle, I'm just learning to juggle my time, but if I can manage to stay
focused, it won't be much of a climb. I don't have much longer to go, I'm glad I'm almost
done, everybody will probably walk to get their diploma, not me, I think I'll run!
Work is good so far, every thing is straight, I just wish I had a car, so I wouldn't have to
worry about being late. I'm
doing pretty good, I can handle my weight, if all the women would stop flirting with me
then I'd be doing great. These are just small potatoes, I'm about to put steaks on these
plates, I'm about to get rich and get us out of here, put you in a mansion behind gates.
You shouldn't worry about Areille and I, we're not in a big hurry, us being friends is one
thing, but her getting my loving is another story. If there's one thing we have in common,
we both want to be successful, every since her father passed away, her situation's been
stressful. The only time she has for me, is when we study for a quiz, if she's not doing
somebody's hair, then she's babysitting somebody's kids. She always worries about the
future, she saves every dollar she makes, she charges people to copy her notes, she
throws suppers and bakes cakes. I can definitely see her being in my future, I really
think she's special, but me wanting to give her the kind of life she deserves is only
adding to the pressure. So you don't have to worry about any hoochies, I'm already half
crazy, y'all got my blood pressure sky high already, I'd definitely be pushing up daisies.
The Robbery...Bad Ass Bingo Plots
Bingo to Dozer: Nigga you tripping, I told you to be up early, it's six o clock, I've been
waiting since five thirty!
I'm trying to get to this paper and you're playing around, we got about forty five minutes
to get the other side of town. So we gotta get a move on, and get over there quick, you
remember my cousin Bluto, and my other homie Vick. Bluto hit me last night, and put
me up on a lick, we gon definitely get this money, we just gotta play
it slick. There's some fools in their hood splurging, telling their business to these tricks,
saying they know people, who know people, who know people who got bricks. My
cousin's been scoping em, watching them make their runs, them fools got that shit
booming, and they're stacking off the crumbs.
So as far as I'm concerned, it's pretty much done, we gotta get suited, we gotta mask up
and get the guns. My homie said it's a go, so if we play this shit right, we
should leave with what they just scored, and the profits from last night. We gon lay
these clowns down, get the work and the cheese, there's four of them and four of us,
that should be at least three thousand a piece. Bluto's timing was perfect, shit couldn't
have been better, me
and him gon go after the coke, and you and Vick can go after the cheddar. Once we hit
this lick, I'll be as hot as a heater, I'll tax two busters on half the shit, and I'll sell the
other half to Skeeter.
Once we put this in motion, we can't cut em no slack, me and Bluto gon take the front,
you and Vick gon take the back. We'll creep up slow, and hide on side of the house, I'm
talking tip toe style, quiet as a mouse.
At seven twenty eight, I'll tap on the doe, when the nigga come out, I'll put the strap to
his fro. When seven thirty
hit, y'all come through the back, lay them fools down, and ask em where it's at. All y'all
gotta do, is keep em laying flat, go through they pockets, and make sure you get the
scratch. I'll be checking the cabinets and the shoe boxes, so there won't be nothing I
don't catch, whatever work they got I want it, I'm trying to get the whole batch. If one of
these dudes flench, we firing em up, just to make
sure they don't give us problems, we tying em up! Once we get what we need, we'll be
gone with the wind, we
gon bounce in both of their cars, so we can strip em and get the rims. We gon dip
somewhere and chill, get high
as a blimp, smoke some of that good shit with no seeds and no stems.
The Lunch Room
Stepper: Oh shit, there he is, there my nigga go, I'll get at you later girl, I gotta go
holler at my folk. Whoa, what it do, what's popping, what it is, main you gotta holler at
your girl, tell her I need the
notes for that quiz. I would ask her myself, but she be acting all mean, like she just
came out the screen, like that girl from “The Ring”, put a nigga in a sling, you seen
Keisha in them jeans, she got me twitching like a fiend, that ass make me wanna sing!
You heard about the fight, I had English with Ms. Green, Keith and Darrel got to boxing,
Darrel made that fool lean, had his ass wobbling like he was walking on a string, Darrel
just stole on Keith, before he even gotta chance to swing. If Mr. Williams wouldn't have
came, Darrel would've put Keith to sleep, Keith say he gonna catch em at the game
tonight, their hood' ll be deep. Keith said as soon as they see that boy they folding em
up, plus my pop's letting me get the new whip, you rolling or what? I gotta go and get
a new fit, so you knowing what's up, when we come through in the new shit, we sewing
em up! I gotta go and get a fit that'll match with my j's, you seen Skeeter's cutlass, he
put it on twenty three inch chrome blades, he just got it out the shop this morning, the
candy green had me in a daze, the paint was shining so bright, it was looking it was
glazed. I pulled up on that fool, he was chilling in the yard, I couldn't even sit in his car,
the music was beating so hard, he got woofers in the trunk, he got about four “fifteens”,
he got the inside
clean, plus he said he's getting screens.
He put it in his mom's name, so everything is
legal, Bingo's been stacking his bread,
he said he's about to buy a regal. I passed by him and Dozer early this morning, I
dropped them off on the other side, but I don't know where they
were going. They were looking dead serious, like they was going through a crisis, how
these niggas buying cars, and can't even get a license?
That boy Bingo is wreaking havoc like he's
dying to shine, hold up, why in the hell are we standing in line, waiting to get this food
that we probably won't even eat, I'm about to spin a
couple blocks, and get me something from down the street. I can't go no further, I feel
like I'm
about to crash, you riding wit a nigga, come on let's mash.
In The Car
Derek: I can't go to the game, I don't get off work until nine, so I'll need you to come
get me, nigga be on time! We gon dip to my crib, so I can take a bath and change
clothes, I'm not worried about the game, but I'm going to the bowling alley for sho!
That's where everybody is going, that shit gon be off the rack, that joint gon be packed,
from the front to the back! I'm rocking a tee shirt and some jeans, with some tennis
shoes to match, I'm about to lean on these hoes, I'll just turn my fitted to the back. Nigga
don't be talking about my girl, I'll tell her what you said, she gon catch you in the hall
way, and slap your ass in the head! That's my future baby mama, she keeps me
focused and balanced, my girl ain't mean, she's just socially challenged! At least my girl
smart, nigga your girl dumb, she be loopy in class, like she be full of that rum! We was
talking about the green house effect, in science Mr. Sneed, she said she didn't know
nothing about that, cause she don't smoke weed. I'm just playing with you homie, don't
be getting all touchy, and don't tell her I said that, have her crazy ass trying to cut me! I
was just riding with Skeeter, like the week before last, he fixed his car up already, that
fool living fast, last time I seen it, he didn't even have a radio in the dash, his left head
light was out, and the right blinker wouldn't flash, he needed a tune up, and the
windshield was cracked, he had glove compartment full of batteries, he had a boom box
in the back. Skeeter was talking about fixing that shit up, I thought he was drunk, but he
showed me the rims and
the woofers in the trunk. I guess he was dead serious, and I thought it was a game, so
he'll turn heads when he come through, he'll be hot as a flame.
Bingo and Dozer jumped a nigga the other day, chased him down three blocks, left him
laid out, changing colors like a peacock! Bingo is more than a problem, that fool is
hazard, he broke in Ms. Jenkins car and she called him a low down bastard, he stole
her cd player, and I thought she was about to lose it, she said “ I know he did it, I just
don't have a way to prove it” (he imitates her high pitched angry voice).
Taking Care Of Home
Skeeter to Jasmine: Twenty, forty, sixty, eighty, two thousand, now make sure you
do what you're supposed to do, before you start browsing. Take my moms to the
grocery store, and take her to pay her bills, make sure
she gets whatever she needs, and make sure my daddy gets his pills. You better be
clipping some coupons, girl I'm for real, I don't wanna hear you hollering about you're
broke tomorrow, you better be trying to find some deals. Make sure you pay your mom's
light bill, and give her a couple hundred I guess, after you got all that taken care of, you
can keep the rest.
I spent so much money fixing that car up, that shit got me stressed, so I'll have to pull
some all nighters, cause my pockets is a mess. Just tax, title, and registration came in
at around a stack, so if you don't see me for a few days, that means I'm trying to bounce
back. Make sure whatever you're doing tomorrow, you're here around three, Donald's
gon be dropping my money off, he owes me about a g.
I need you to make sure it's what it's supposed to be, but don't count it in public, make
sure you put it in a good place, and don't let nobody touch it. Don't worry bout who I'm
talking to, looking all over my shoulders, girl that's Bingo texting me, I gotta go scoop
him and Dozer.
Girl you must be losing your mind, I'm not worried about no hoes, I might converse with
a broad, but that's about as far as it goes. I'm not buying your brand, you better
find some where else to sell it, I'm cheating with anything with a pulse, let your crazy
ass tell it. I spend as much time with you as I can, so don't make me laugh, I gotta
handle my business, you get whatever time I have! If I was here all the time, then you'd
be whining about feeling smothered, I'm already in love with one psycho,
I certainly don't need another. Yea I said it, I'm talking about you, don't try to act like you
senile, with all that crazy shit you do. You laughing like it's funny, but I'm dead ass
serious, your strange behavior is starting to make me curious!
Riding With Skeeter
Skeeter: Yeah I know my shit shining, I seen you looking at it glow, no need for
words, I already know.
I had everything hooked up, before I got it sprayed, it wasn't supposed to come out till
tomorrow, but I couldn't wait another day. If I turn the volume up past eight, then
I'll have shit rumbling like a quake, every broad I pass by be doing a double take.
I turn my shit up pass ten, all the windows would break, Stepper seen it when I first
brought it out, my paint was wetter than a lake, shit
killed my pockets though, I had to make something
shake, I've been grinding since early this morning,
trying to get every dollar I can make. I broke down a whole pound of trees for them
niggas who like to get baked, I sold that shit quick, and shot dice with the cake.
I broke them boys in half, tripled my profit, went and scored another pound and put the
rest in my pocket. A couple hours went by, and I was on a roll, I broke half of that pound
down, and sold the other half whole.
That's why when I got that quarter from you, I was moving so fast, I cut the coke and
cooked it, and turned it into a half. That's when I dashed, set up shop as fast as I could,
I don't know where you got that shit from, but it must've been good. I got off of it quick, I
was good in a matter of hours, I got my pockets back right, and didn't nothing go sour.
By the time you called, I had just got out the
shower, I had to argue with Jasmine's ass for about an half an hour.
Jasmine was talking all crazy, like I'm the cadet and she's the lieutenant, her ass ain't
finished, she'll be calling in a few minutes.
What's up with the ride, when you gon bring your shit out, all that grinding you been
doing, your pockets ought to be stout. Whatever you need, you can holler at your dog,
from the rims to music, I can get it all. That's Stepper just text me, he said they just left
the mall, he bout to go and scoop Derek, he like what's happening with y'all. He said
they're about to smash out, as soon as he finds what he's gonna wear, they're on their
way to the bowling alley, we'll just meet them there.
I Can't Stop Grinding
Bingo: Yeah you got your shit shining, you got this joint decked, but watch when I
bring mines out, it's gon make your shit look like a wreck! I'm taking it to get painted
tomorrow, I'll have everything I need by the time it's through, when I get it out the shop,
it'll be looking brand new. Once I get the body dressed up, then I'll come with the shoes,
I already got the rims, I'm about to sit it on twenty twos. Plus I got the music, I just need
you to find me an amp, around this time next week, I'll be riding like a champ!
When we get to the bowling alley, I hope
security don't check, cause shit been hectic lately, I got the pistola on deck. I'm out to
get paid, I can't stop grinding for a sec, in a couple more weeks, I'll have
some ice around my neck, another week after that, I'll have some ice around my wrist,
every time you see me
I'll have a stack of cash in my fist. So I might be ducked off for a minute, after this, I'm
fixing to bust out a spot on the south side, with my homies Black and Lil Chris.
I done got it so hot over here, I gotta go to the other
side of town, and I'll just hustle over there, until the cops shut it down. I'm trying to make
it to the major league,
so I'll be pitching from the mound, by the time the laws catch on, I won't be no where to
be found.
Plus I'm tired of these niggas, always telling me to chill, acting like hoes, I hope they're
on the pill! Every little thing I do, they try to turn it into a big deal, shit making me
paranoid, one of these busters might squeal! Main you, Derek, and Stepper, my nigga
Dozer keep it real,
the rest of these clowns better stay on their side of the field!
I Should've Hooked Up A Meter
Areille to Carissma: Hey girl what's up, I've been done for the past hour, so if I
didn't hear the phone ring, that means I was in the shower. I just stepped out, now I'm
wrapping my hair, getting ready for tomorrow, I have to find something to wear. I came
home and did my homework, I passed on the game, I just did Jasmine's hair, and
clowned around with my uncle James. James and my mom were interrogating me, they
were straight trying to grill me, they were badgering me about Derek, I was just looking
at em like “really”? My mom was
trying to fight me, my uncle was acting like a hill billy, talking about I look like I'm
pregnant, and if I am she's gonna kill me. My mom was acting crazy, and my uncle was
trying to shield me, girl I was so embarrassed, these folks are so silly.
I talked to Derek earlier, for a few minutes or whatever,
he said he was going to the bowling alley and he was waiting on Stepper.
I should've charged Jasmine an hourly fee, I should've hooked up a meter, I felt like a
psychiatrist, all she did
was complain about Skeeter, about how they don't spend enough time together, cause
he's always in the streets, about how he swears he's being faithful, but she knows he
still cheats, about how he thinks money makes her happy, but that's not making her feel
complete, about
how every time she start talking about leaving, that's when he starts acting all sweet,
about how their relationship is so stressful, and she doesn't know why she's still in it,
and about how she knows she can do better, but she was still calling him every fifteen
minutes. Jasmine was really working herself up, I really don't get it, she's head over
heels in love, she needs to go ahead and admit it.
Talking Business...Slim Briefs Dino
Ok the shipment is on its way, that's the first topic of discussion, I sent Gloria to get it,
cause she knows somebody at customs, her and Donnie are gonna switch cars at the
diner, so as far as I can see, everything
should go sweet, and it should be here around three.
We need to get the product to the workers, and get it ready for the streets, make sure
we be discreet, and not draw too much heat. It shouldn't take too long to move
the coke, because business is at its peak, by my calculations, it should be gone in two
weeks.
Second we got collections, everything should be fine, pretty much everybody payed up,
and most of em payed on time. That nigga Ray who owns the strip club, has been
making a habit of paying late, if he keeps that
shit up, then I'll send somebody to set him straight!
Third we got the cars, that's some nice cash in the pot, Rico's been swiping them by the
dozen, he's been bringing in a lot, he brings us nothing but the best,
without a blemish or blot, we get the parts for the chop shop, and the cars we sell on our
lots.
It's like everything he brings in is fully equipped, the stereos and the rims sell as soon as
we get them
stripped. I think if he was running a crew, things would
go smoother than lotion, it's time to sit him down, it's time we give him a promotion, see
about finding him some recruits, so we can put this in motion, if he can produce
us some go getters, the money will pour in like the ocean.
Fourth we got the robbery crew, they've been putting in work, they always bring in a lot
of cash, whenever they lurk, between the banks, and the burglaries, and the rival
dealers, that fifteen percent could turn into a whole lot of scrilla. Oh there's one last
thing, I've been meaning to mention, that young nigga Bingo done caught my attention.
Bingo's been putting in a lot of work, but I don't like the reputation he's gaining, he's
been drawing heat from the cops, a lot of people have been complaining. With these
moves we've been making, and talking about expansion, we gotta run a tight ship, we
can't have nobody free lancing. Business is business, and as harsh as it seems, we'll
either have get him off the block, or put him down with the team. I mean I like the young
nigga, he's just been making shit hot, I'll see what I can do
about finding him a spot.
Chapter 2: Things Change
Derek: How you doing beautiful, how was your day, you were acting all funny with a
nigga, like
you didn't have too much to say. You must be mad at me huh, I must've done
something wrong, plus I've been waiting for you to call and you were taking all long.
When you get around your girls,
you start acting like a mute, don't be thinking you can play me, just because you're cute!
I'm just playing with you boo, what's happening with you, I've been missing you all day
long, you had me sad and blue. I went to work and came home, and that was all she
wrote, oh yeah
Stepper keeps telling me to ask you about some notes. I was missing you for real, but
I'm glad you had a good day, is that your mom in the background, tell her I said hey.
Yeah my schedule's getting crazy, so I've been trying to do my best, make my thirty
hours at work, and study for these test. I gotta get whatever time they give me, I can't
settle for nothing less, I've been
thinking about my moms a lot, that shit's been having me stressed.
She's been trying to play it off, but I can tell she's depressed, they're laying people off at
her job, and she might be next. That shit's gotta hurt, after all these years, of hard work
and long hours, all she's left with are fears, knowing my dad's gotta fight his demons,
she's just been holding back the tears, shit'd we're already struggling, we just got
enough to pay the bills. So most of my money goes to her, so now I'm hurting for real,
plus all of my niggas got cars, and I'm the only
one with no wheels. Somethings gotta give, this ain't how I want to live, I gotta get some
money coming in, it is what it is.
Plus I wanna take care of you, be able to buy you the best, get you a really nice
necklace, or a really nice dress, take you to a really nice restaurant, where they valet
the cars, have a candle light dinner, right under the stars. So I gotta figure something
out soon, I don't have time to be nappin, but the way it's looking, ain't no way that'll
happen.
Let's Be Clear
Arielle: First of all let's be clear, let's not make it about me, cause all the things I want
from you just happen to
be free. I don't care about material stuff, and I don't need to be wined and dined, if you
just keep being your self, then you and I will be just fine. Do I need to be worried, I know
you have a lot on your mind, but I hope you're not thinking about getting into any
trouble, or committing any crimes. These problems are only temporary, they'll get better
with time, you don't need to be doing things now, that you'll end up regretting down the
line.
You just keep being patient, and stick to your normal grind, we all have problems, yours
are no different from mines. I know about your friends, and following them wouldn't be
wise, cause they're are all heading for trouble, they're just too blind to see the signs.
Your mom will be fine, you don't need to be stressed, I'm pretty sure she's more
concerned about seeing you become a success.
Don't sit here and have me believing, that you're doing your best, until I'm looking for
you but I can't find you, cause you've gotten yourself in some mess. God works
in mysterious ways, and this might just be a test, to see
if you'll be an exception, or if you'll end up being like the rest.
As long as I've known you you've always made the right move, that's what makes you
different, that's why I like you. That's what makes you special, that's what makes you my
type, please don't throw it all away by getting caught up in the hype.
What The Hell Am I Supposed To Eat?
Areille: Hey girl what's up, you had me thinking something was wrong, I know you
seen me calling you, you better pick up the phone! Who are you talking like that, don't
get yourself shanked, you must've been on the phone with Bingo, that's why you're
acting all stank! I know that's your future baby daddy, and he's got you all sprung, but
you can still get the business, so I suggest you watch your tongue! I'm just playing with
you girl, what did you do today, I just ran a few errands, and took care
of a few bills I had to pay. I had to go and pay my phone bill, and the fees for the trip, I'll
be so happy to get out of there, I'll probably bust a few flips. I'll be so glad to get that
diploma, I hope I don't slip, fall on my face and end up walking with a limp.
I just got off the phone with Derek, and we were talking about life, he was telling me
about
his problems, and I was telling him it'll be alright. I'm hoping he won't get off track, but I
have a feeling he might, I hope his problems don't get the best of him, I hope he puts up
a good fight. The majority of the time,
we were talking on the phone, about all of his problems,
I was thinking about my own. I was thinking about getting ready for college, and how the
time just flies, and about how all the extra money I make on the side, I'll have to kiss
that goodbye. If I can get a full scholarship, then that would be sweet, cause times are
hard around here,
we're barely making ends meet, even if I do manage to get one, I still won't be on easy
street, cause with all the time I'll be spending studying, what the hell am I supposed to
eat?
I wanna be independent, and take care of myself, but on top of all that, my mom still
needs my help. I mean like what if I put together a good resume, with all of the perks,
just to get an internship, and end up working for a jerk, who has a bad attitude, and
treats me like I'm lesser, and I end up quitting, because I can't handle the pressure? I
end up having a bad experience, something happens that could change me, and I never
recover, and I spend the rest of my life angry. What if it's not what I expect, and
something happens that could
stain me, I mean never say never, that's what
happened to Jamie.
Together We'll Go In, Together We'll Stand
Carissma: You can do whatever you like, you can punch me you can spank me, but
whatever you decide, pleeease don't shank me! Yes I was on the phone with Bingo, If
you must know, and even if I am a little sprung, I try not to let it show. With that being
said, you're really cutting it close, with all this future baby daddy talk, you're doing the
most. Who can tell the future, who knows what could be, everybody says he's no good,
but they don't know him like me. I know he doesn't always, behave the way he should,
but he's not a bad person, he's just misunderstood.
Derek will be ok, he'll end up being just fine, he always manages to stay out of trouble,
and I've been knowing him for a long time. I hear what you're saying about school, I've
been thinking the same, but everything should be ok if we just stay in our lane. If we just
conserve our time and energy, and try not to get drained, take the bitter with the sweet,
and try not to complain. We have to give it one hundred percent, and carry out all of our
duties,
meet the right people and network, and look for new opportunities. Together we'll go in,
together we'll stand, I think we'll come out better, if we go in with a plan. We'll set
ourselves a goal, and work towards it in advance, you can't go in thinking negative, you
have to give yourself a chance. We gotta be as wise as an old person, and sly
as a fox, we have to always be prepared to think outside of the box. We'll just lace up
our shoes, and pull up our socks, and these few years will go pass, like the tick of a
clock.
You Know How It Is
Derek: What is big homie, I guess I don't have to ask where you've been, I see you got
the ride shining, you've been getting it in. Shit I've just been trying to take it easy, nigga
been stressing, just the fact that I haven't
went crazy yet, is truly a blessing. I've been trying get this diploma, and do all of my
lesson, but the shit that's going on at home, is only keeping me guessing. I've been
talking to my girl, and she's been telling me to chill,
I know she don't mean no harm, but that shit won't help me to pay these bills! It's not
like I wanna run the streets and do wrong for my own enjoyment, my moms just got laid
off, now she's gotta file for unemployment! It won't take a genius to tell, that this is about
to be bad, after it's all said and done, she'll only be getting a fraction of what she had.
As if that wasn't enough, to make a nigga click, on top of losing her job, I think she's
getting sick. I think her blood pressure is rising, cause the problems keep piling, she
went to the doctor the other day, when she came back she wasn't smiling.
So I gotta make some moves, and bring something to the table, cause shit is getting
real, it's up to me to keep us stable. So I gotta get a move on, I gotta handle my biz,
that's why I came to you, because you know how shit is. I just gotta keep a level head,
and play this shit raw, I'm not trying to have a nervous breakdown, and end up stressing
like my paw, throw my whole life away, getting lost in the bottle, trying to use alcohol, to
escape all of my problems. I'll just hustle for a little while, and make a few dollars,
without raising no eyebrows, and without getting collared.
I Be Having Nightmares
Skeeter: I hear what you're saying, I know how it feels, I'm sorry to hear about your
moms, that's messed up for real! I don't have no other choice but to hustle, you already
know the drill, I'll just put you down with this scheme I got, moving these pills. It's
nothing too dangerous, that'll pull you off track, all you gotta do is see somebody, and
deliver a pack. Do that about three or
four times a week, and bring the cash right back, and I'll let you get a couple hundred off
of every stack. A few of weeks go by, then you should be cool, that should hold you
over for a while, till you figure out what you
wanna do. I don't know about nothing else, but you gotta finish school, you've come this
far, I just wanna see you make it through.
I would hate to see you get caught up, committing these crimes, and end up like your
pops, or even worse like mines. Shit is bad out here, and it ain't getting no better, talking
about living this life, you gotta be ready for whatever.
These hoes is cutthroat, these niggas is jacking, it's only
a matter of time before you end up packing, that's the
only way to go if you talking bout stacking, more money, more problems, you gotta
really
be bout that action! Main this shit ain't sweet, don't too many niggas win, I'm just trying
to get whatever I can
get, and stay my ass out the pen, this shit can become addictive, this shit can become a
trend, every time say I wanna chill out, I end up right back in it again. One day I'll have
to look at god, and answer for my sins, and explain why I'm selling the same shit that's
killing my kin.
I be having nightmares, I wake up sweatin,
dreaming I got killed, and I didn't make into heaven. The deeper I get in the shit, the
worst it be, it's getting to the point now, where I'm scared to go to sleep.
So now I stay out all night, getting heavy on my grind, smoking more and more weed,
just to try and ease my mind. I'm talking twelve o clock in the morning, and I
need shades to cover my eyes, can't have nobody thinking I'm slipping, so I guess that's
my disguise. All they see is me getting money, they just see me on the rise, but on the
inside I'm hoping I don't fall off, and get high on my own supply. I couldn't see myself
being like my parents, walking these blocks, putting the lighter to
the pipe, hitting them rocks. All niggas see is the money, but that ain't what it's all about,
if it was in my power, then I would go another route.
Jasmine's Dilemma
Jasmine: Hey girl what's up, I'm glad I caught you, I'm going through a dilemma and I
need someone to talk to. My mom has been stressing me, complaining about how I'm
living fast, and talking about Skeeter to my auntees and putting me on blast, starting a
bunch of confusion, and bringing up the past, telling me how I need to leave him, and
how she knows it won't last, she's just been all up in my business, going on and on, but
when she needs something from him, he can't do no wrong.
Plus I've been arguing with Skeeter, all we do is fight, I'm tired of him leaving me by
myself and staying out all night, this has been going on for about a month and a half, it
was to the point where I was ready to pack my bags and go down a whole other path, it
was making me sick, I was literally nauseous, so I'm like I'd better go see my physician,
just to be cautious. I mean just when I was about ready, to leave him and be done, I find
out I'm pregnant and I'm almost three months. Now on one hand I'm happy, and on the
other hand I'm sad, I'm just wondering where do we go from here, is he ready to be a
dad? He's already been complaining about me trying to control him, he's been moving
so fast lately, I still haven't told him. I've been going through the motions, I don't know
what I should do, I've been having morning sickness, and he thinks I've got the flu.
I'm keeping the baby, that's pretty much a fixture, so the million dollar question, is will he
be in the picture? Is he ready for father hood, is he ready for marriage, I don't wanna be
all by myself, pushing a carriage. Being a mother is hard, you really have to be strong,
and it's even ten times harder trying to do it alone. I guess I'll have to build up the nerve,
tell him tomorrow I suppose, besides me, you, and the doctor, nobody else knows.
Skeeter's been gone all day, who knows when he'll be back, plus I still have to tell my
family, there's no telling how they'll react.
That's Really Good News
Areille: Well that's really good news, right before graduation, you're about to be a
mother, congratulations. I think you'll make a great mom, your senses
are usually keen, you don't have anything to be afraid of, it's a beautiful thing. You have
a lot to look forward to, I think it's really great, plus I'll have a new playmate, girl I can't
wait!
I think you and Skeeter should sit down, and get everything straight, I'm pretty sure he'll
do the right thing, and step up to the plate. I know he loves you, and
I know he can be sweet, that might be exactly what he needs, to keep him out of the
streets. I don't know about your mom, you might be nervous in the beginning, you'll just
have to sit down and talk to her, and break it to her gently. She's about to have a
granddaughter or a grandson, your aunts are about to have a nephew or a niece, that
should be a big enough incentive, for you all
to try and keep the peace. Just be patient with your mom, don't let her get you down,
she might be angry at first,
but she'll eventually come around. I know you might be nervous, about having to carry
that weight, but everything happens for a reason, so it had to be fate. There will be
many more responsibilities, and a lot more on your plate, but babies have a way of
making everything great. Plus you can still do school, you'll just be a little late,
but when it's all said and done, it'll be well worth the wait. You're about to bring a life into
the world, you're gonna have a little bundle of joy, I can't wait till we find out whether
you're having a girl or a boy.
Guess What Happened
Stepper: Man ole man, do I have a story to tell, guess what happened, guess who's in
jail! Bingo was on the south side, slanging out of a motel, I guess he was drawing
attention, cause his paper was starting to swell. Bingo was setting up some kind of deal,
wasn't nobody with him but Black, the dude said he had to get the money, and he was
coming right back. So the jacker came back with two dudes, and they were all wearing
black, Bingo said he thought it was cool, because he came with the stacks. All of a
sudden he had a forty five and a mac pointed at his hat, they drew down on em, and
told em to lay flat!
Bingo said before he make it down, to get on the floor, Chris came back and started
shooting through the door! When the jacker turned around, Bingo grabbed him from
behind, threw him against the wall, and pulled out the nine! The nigga started busting
and grazed Bingo's head, Bingo and Chris was shooting back, and Black just played
dead! The robbers were gone in a flash, but before Bingo could mash, the cops
whipped up on him and he didn't have time to flush the stash! Bingo said before he
could look around, they were pretty much collared, they caught him with the work, and
like ten thousand dollars.
It was only by chance Dozer wasn't there, that had to be a blessing, had he not had to
check on his grandmother, he would either be dead or arrested! So now Dozer's wilding
out, he's riding around stressing, talking bout catching the dudes, and teaching them a
lesson.
They still got Bingo in processing, as far as I can tell, I guess his daddy gon get him out,
as soon as they set his bail. I mean you knew this was gon happen, as crazy as it
seems, I guess he's going to juvi, he's only sixteen. Sixteen or not, he might have to do
some time, these are serious charges, not just petty crimes. Main that shit was sad, I
had all kinda stuff going through my mind, his daddy was mad, and his mama was
crying.
Now you got Dozer pissed off, and talking about getting even, that means our side and
their side might end up beefing. Plus Bingo's never done no serious time, so this will be
a first, I'm hoping he straightens up , but he might come out even worst.
What Should I Do?
Areille: Girl what should I do, I feel so bad, I've been trying to cheer Derek up, but I
can tell he's sad, his mother has been in and out of the hospital, now she's confined to
the bed, no senior trip for him, he'll be taking care of her instead. The doctors said her
blood pressure is way too high, and it's too early to tell, but if it keeps getting higher,
then her kidneys could fail.
So Derek has been by her side, and helping out a lot, her blood hasn't been flowing
properly, it's already in clots. I don't know what to say to him, even my stomach is in
knots, I'm just hoping she pulls through, she's pretty much all he's got. Losing a love
one is hard, I know how it feels, I still haven't recovered, from my father being killed.
Should I just try to give him space, and not be all up in his grill, and just love him from a
distance, and wait until she heals, or should I stand my ground, and try to keep him
close, I don't want him to think I'm leaving him, when he needs me the most.
It's getting harder to reach him, I'm trying to be patient, he used to have a sparkle in his
eyes, and now they're just vacant.
I just wanna see him happy again, try and ease the agitation, bad enough we couldn't
go to prom, now his mom is gonna miss his graduation. I still remember how it felt,
when I got the news, that my dad was gone, being hurt and confused, being
brokenhearted and sad, being bitter and angry, trying to be strong for my mom, and not
let her see me complaining. Instead of attending prom attending a funeral, my dad not
seeing me in my dress, knowing he wouldn't be there when I graduate, made me even
more depressed, knowing he wouldn't be there to give me away, or walk me down the
aisle, or be outside the delivery room, when I have my first child. I wouldn't wish that on
anybody, that's an horrible feeling, that's like an open wound for me, that will never
finish healing.
I Know Right
Jasmine: That is depressing, I'm sorry to hear about that, you have to give it some
time, I'm sure they'll both bounce back. I hope it doesn't take long, I hope it happens
fast, I remember her from elementary school, when she used to help out in class. That's
sad to hear, she's a really nice lady, I'm sure god has his reasons but life sure can be
shady. I don't think you should avoid him, I think it's all about balance, I think you should
stay as close to him as possible, even if it's a challenge. I think you should spell it out for
him, in capital letters, let him know that you'll be there for him, until everything gets
better.
When a person gets depressed, and they just keep sinking, it's always better they feel
loved, you never know what they might be thinking. Just be sensitive to his situation,
like he was sensitive to yours, and I bet they'll both recover, and they'll be better off than
before. I don't know what's going on, it seems like everybody we know is feeling down, it
must be something in the water, I promise it's going around! You and Derek are
stressing, I done got knocked up, Carissma's been crying, cause Bingo done got locked
up.
Skeeter's happy I'm pregnant, but I can tell he's nervous, he's been out in the streets,
like he's doing community service, he said he's trying to get prepared, that's why he's
always gone, at least I found a way to make him pick up the phone. I told my mom I was
pregnant, I had to break it to her easy, she just busted out laughing, like she thought I
was teasing. When she found out I was serious, that was like giving her a reason, I
thought she was about to wrap her hands around my neck and start squeezing! I
thought she was gonna bust my head, and leave me leaking, she pretended to be
happy, but we still haven't been speaking. She's been in her room for the past few days,
kinda got me thinking, I just tip toe by, and every now and then I peek in.