Geminology

The Twins Write

[geminology]

miss you guys

We miss you, too!! We were just reminiscing about you all and the fun we had writing Downtown! Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about any of you. We are in our final year of grad school and that’s been our main focus, but it’s also been keeping us away from our true passion. We can’t wait to get back to writing!! 

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Congratulations to all the Fan Fic Winner . All my favs where winners .

@millafever @travelmama12 @sica49 @denisefromoffgrovestreet @la-siren @Author P @lt-fanfics @4hgladiators @geminology I might have forgotten someone sorry but all of your are GREAT and thank you for your great stories 

[geminology]

Thank you to those that voted, read, reblogged and liked out story! We appreciate the love!

[geminology]

That was sooooo good, if you have time you should totally make it a story :)

Will definitely think about it. Glad you enjoyed! Thanks!

[geminology]

Ohhhhh where is the rest . I need more asap. When did you do this how did I miss this.

Just a one shot. Sorry. This was done on Sunday. Glad you like it, ma'am. 😊

[geminology]

Beast (One Shot)

The origin story. 

“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man.”

― Heraclitus

“I’ve tried to be patient with you, Mr. Bourgeois, I really have. I don’t take too kindly to the disrespect you shown me, my crew. You have to understand that yo’ store is located on my side of the city and everythin’ on this side of the city belongs to me now.” He held the gun close to body as if it was attached to him.

Mr. Bourgeois said nothing as he stared at the man before him. He wasn’t afraid. Not for him, but for his family. He was a prideful one, and just as his former partner Mr. Gage didn’t take to disrespect nor did he. He wasn’t afraid to die for something he stood for and he raised his sons to do the same. Mr. Bourgeois’ eyes stayed focused on Mr. Gage’s. Leroy, the twins’ father, looked at his best friend who held the gun to his temple. He couldn’t believe his friend would pull something like this.

He trusted him.

Fully.

But this was his plan along. To take what their father built and make it his own.

“This is my store, Percy. I have put everything I had into this place. I’m not going to let you or anybody else tell me that something I have worked for does not belong to me.”

“I know, Leroy, I helped you build it from the ground up. I worked my hands to the bone for you, and you left me in the dust! I did all yo’ dirty work. The blood that was supposed to be on yo’ hands is stainin’ mine!” Mr. Gage aimed the gun he cradled and fired two shots into Mr. Bourgeois’ leg.

Groaning in pain he grabbed his leg applying pressure to his new wound. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw something or better yet someone. His son only sixteen peered through the soda aisle out into the scene in front of him.

He could see something in his eyes, something he’d never witnessed from him.

Rage.

Laurent had always been quick tempered curtesy of his father, but something was different about him. Something was off, like a branch snapping out of place, his father could see the change in him—his demeanor. Mr. Bourgeois could see the wheels turning inside his son’s young mind.

Mr. Bourgeois shook his head as if saying no to whatever Laurent was thinking. If something were to happen to him, fine, but not his sons. He couldn’t and wouldn’t risk their lives. Not to some unloyal piece of shot like Percy. His son’s face softened and Mr. Bourgeois’ sighed hoping he’d ended whatever plan he had.

“Retire from the game and turn over everythin’ to me and I’ll let you live,” Mr. Gage said.

“I ain’t givin’ you shit!” Mr. Bourgeois objected.

Mr. Gage’s trigger finger was quick as he allowed the rest of his clip to fill Mr. Bourgeois.

There his father lay in a pool of his own blood inside the store he built. Mr. Gage stood there pleased with his work.

“Burn this place down. Call me when it’s done.”

The young man gave the place one last look, this was the place he was raised, played and worked. It was gone and so was his father. It was only he and his brother now and he promised to look after him. Smoke filled the room and he knew if he didn’t get out soon he would be reunited with his father. He glanced at his papa one last time not knowing the image of him would be eternally etched into his mind.

The cold New Orleans air greeted him like a blanket he didn’t need. He wasn’t ready to face his mother and brother yet. He needed time to think. Plan his next move. The Laurent he once was gone, left in ashes as his family place was. He knew there was no going back, and he knew home wasn’t the place for him. Not now. He knew his brother could give their mother the comfort he couldn’t. Not now. ******

I sat up, throwing the covers off me. Nightmares and cold sweats were something I was becoming accustomed to. Wiping the sweat from my forehead with the back of my hand, I tossed the nightmare to the back of my mind, pushed myself off of the old run down couch, that was now my bed, and went into the bathroom.

Cold air seeped into the old, abandoned studio apartment I squatted in for the time being. The building I was in was soon to be demolished at the of this month, so I didn’t have much time to do what I needed to do. I knew the police were out scouring the streets for me, and this was the last place I knew they would look. They needed me to testify. I wasn’t going. I knew whatever I did wasn’t going to put Percy Gage behind bars.

I had nowhere else to go and no one to depend on, well I did, but I wasn’t in the mood of keeping company. I trusted no one. For all I knew my boys could have been in on the grocery store hit. Yeah, that’s what they were calling it on the news—the grocery store hit. They knew who ordered the hit, so why did they need me to testify? I scoffed. Percy Gage, was now one of the most powerful men in New Orleans now following my father’s death. I wasn’t no dummy. I knew they needed me to come out of hiding, and that wasn’t something I was about to do. Not until I was ready.

Nobody gave a shit about what happened to my papa. Fuckin’ police wouldn’t even make an arrest. Percy ran this town and everybody knew it. Turning the knob on the sink, the old, creaky pipes rattled and groaned before producing brown water. I shut it off silencing the room. That was the only thing that comforted me now. Silence. That was all I heard until I laid down to sleep, and only then were the screams that haunted me.

I had nothing.

I was nothing.

I was reduced to nothing, but an old dilapidated building that held nothing, but an old, moldy couch where I took refuge. Dirty, brown walls surrounded me keeping me in and my enemies out.

Did my enemies know they were my enemies?

I didn’t know and I didn’t care, because tonight, they would feel my presence and my wrath. The view from my window was a dimly lit alley unoccupied as its usual occupants gone, like they knew what was about to happen. Needles, empty bottles, and broken glass vials littered the alleyway. The streetlight flickered and buzzed as if it was fighting to stay lit.

Old flat tires lay against the broken down fence that rattled every time the wind blew. The smell of death and piss violated my nose and alerted my senses.

In the far distance lay a backdrop of the city’s lights glowing proudly against the night sky. Its beauty was unmatched even by the gritty streets filled with crime—my city, New Orleans—was known as the city of cuisine, music and festivals, but I could only see it as the city of pain, despair and hopelessness.

The cold air that forced its way into the cracks of the old windowsill encased me, but I felt nothing. Was it because I was now cold inside, and my outside now matched my insides? I didn’t care for anyone or anything else and I didn’t see myself ever doing so again. My heart went with my papa and that’s where it would stay. I was never going to get attached to another person as long as I filled my lungs with air.

My mother and brother were all I had left.

Or did I?

I was done with family.

I was afraid that if my mother and brother crossed me in a way I didn’t like, they too, would suffer. I couldn’t have that on my conscious. I didn’t want them to see me like this. Not this new person I’ve become. Even I was afraid of the thing that deep inside me. The thing that wanted to come out and present itself as the new Laurent. I was conflicted. I didn’t know whether to keep my newfound identity suppressed or to let it out. It almost hurt to keep it inside. I was fighting with myself to stop the change, but as they say change is inevitable, and I knew it was only a matter of time. Why not embrace the inevitable? I wasn’t ready to lose myself just yet.

The small roached that was in the crystal ashtray was now between my lips. I struck the last of my matches and lit the tip. Inhaling I allowed the effects of the marijuana to calm me of my current state of anger, and to numb me of all the bad thoughts that crept to the forefront of my mind. I hoped the small blunt would keep me grounded until it was time.

I don’t know if I or Percy Gage realized that with every pull of his trigger, it aged me. I wasn’t the normal sixteen year old who’s Friday nights consisted of parties, picking up girls and the illegal partaking of booze. Nah, I wasn't that kid anymore. My innocence was gone with no signs of returning. I didn’t even go by Laurent anymore.

I was just Beast.

Beast.

I took one last pull of the blunt before retiring it back to the crystal ashtray. I was relaxed, calm and collected. I walked back over to couch and opened my backpack. I slid the black hoodie over my head and laced up my boots. The shiny, black metal at the bottom of my bag caught my attention. I reached in and pulled it out. It belonged to my papa, one of the many things I took from his old office.

The cool metal felt good against my hot palms. I felt my arm rise and aim at a wall. I couldn't resist the twitch that caused my finger to squeeze the trigger. The barely audible clicks of the gun sounded as I imagined holes burrowed deep into the filthy wall. I saw Percy and his men faces in the wall as I riddled it with pretend bullets.

I looked at the weapon. Still up from both my cannabis and gun high, I felt powerful, untouchable and it was then I knew I was no longer Laurent and things would never be the same. I placed the loaded clip into the handle of the gun and tucked it into the pocket of my hoodie, just as my phone rang.

I hit the answer button.

“Yeah?” I spoke into the phone.

“It’s time.”

That was all I needed to hear. After hanging up the phone I placed it onto the floor. My boots met with the phone over and over until I felt that was enough. I no longer wanted to be found or contacted.

Laurent was now dead.

It was Beast’s turn to rise.

Placing the bag onto my back, I went out into the night. I placed the hood over my head as I walked through the streets, concealing my identity from the world. As I walked closer and closer to my destination, everything seemed to slow down.

I was ready.

Percy Gage didn’t know what was about to hit him. I had information on where he would be on this particular night. The New Orleans Police Department was holding their annual fundraiser in the French Quarter at Hotel Monteleone.

The guest of honor was Percy Gage.

And the surprise guest was me.

Percy was well known for giving the NOPD millions of dollars every year. That was no secret. Our papa believed to protect both his and Percy’s operation, but little did he know Percy was only trying to cover his tail. This was his way of making sure everyone knew that NOPD was in his pocket and that he was the one that truly ruled.

New Orleans’s wealthiest crowded the sidewalk in front of Hotel Monteleone. Camera bulbs, flashed furiously on the fancily dressed people. I knew it was best to stay out of sight. I could feel someone’s eyes focused on me as I stared out into the crowd across the street.

I leaned against a light pole and searched for him in the sea of people. A black Lincoln town car pulled up to the curb and I knew he was inside. My gloved hands found themselves inside my pockets once again. If I was going to do this I knew I needed to be quick. Still, I could feel someone watching my every move.

Percy made his appearance.

I watched as he walked towards the entrance of Hotel Monteleone, the crowd fawned over him like he was a good guy. Made me sick to my stomach. I gripped my gun tighter. Not now. I had to be smart although my anger was getting the best of me. My eyes roamed to those that surrounded him, protecting him. That’s when I saw the eyes that were directly on me. He stood across the street his demeanor same as mine as he kept himself hidden from the busy bodies. 

He headed towards me.

Muthafucka was going to blow my cover. I pushed myself off the light pole and started down the street as quickly and non-suspiciously as I could.

I ducked into an alley only to be trapped by a dead end.

“Shit!”

I held onto the gun ready to shoot my way out if necessary. I could hear his footsteps growing closer. I took a deep breath in and released it as he rounded the corner.

“Laurent Bourgeois,” he said, walking further into the alley his hands buried into the pockets of his jean. “I know what you came to do. I saw the outline of yo’ gun from across the street. Stupide! Do you know how many policemen and plainclothes he has staking out the place? Do you know many goons are out there ready to die for him?”

“Fuck you.”

He smirked. My words didn’t even penetrate his calm manner. “Sois calme, Lau.”

“Why should I listen to you?” I asked.

“Because you and I aren’t so different, Laurent—“

“Beast.”

“Excuse moi?”

“My name is Beast. Laurent is dead.”

There was that smirk again. “Well, Beast, you and I both want the same thing and that’s Percy dead.” He reached into his pocket.

My gun was now aimed at him. “Relax, Beast, it’s just a piece of gum,” he said, revealing the small white package to me.

“Why the fuck should I trust you?”

“Because I’m yo’ brother. Yo’ blood. I love and care about yo’ ass even though you abandoned me and maman when we needed you. Where were you? We thought you were dead,” Larry said.

“I needed time to think. I needed time alone.”

“You coulda called and let us know you were ok. We want you to come home, mon frère,” Larry said, taking a step closer to Laurent. He took a step back. “The fuck is wrong with you?”

“I-i-i can’t come home, Larry. I can’t see maman like that.”

“She needs you. I’ve been with her since it happened. I’ve had to watch her suffer, because not only does she think she’s lost her husband, but a son as well. We know you were at the store that day. Come home. She’ll be happy to see you.”

“Not yet.”

“Then when?” his voice demanded. “When are you comin’ home? You’d rather stay out in the streets waiting for an opportunity to kill Percy. You can’t do it alone. Let me help you. Come home, eat, shower and rest. You look like you haven’t slept in years. Let me help you, mon frère.”

“No. I don’t need your help.” I put my gun into my pocket and brushed past my brother.

He grabbed me and pushed me against the cold brick wall. I lost my balance and fell onto the ground. The gun fell out of my pocket. I left it there. He stood over me anger in his eyes.

“I don’t give a fuck about what you want, Lau, just as you didn’t give a fuck about what we wanted. You basically said fuck us and left. Now, I said you coming home. Pick ya’ ass up and come on.” He took the gun that was now at my side and slipped it inside his jacket. I’m not leavin’ you. We was born together and if God have it we gone die together.”

I loved my brother and I knew he loved me too, but I wasn't ready to face my maman. I wasn’t ready to see her broken. My brother hid his pain well and I knew he felt the same as I did. I didn’t want to put him in any danger. I didn’t want to attach myself to my family, because I didn’t want them to face the consequences of my actions, but that was already hard in itself as my brother walked around with the same face as mine. He held out his hand for mine. I took it. He didn’t let go. He pulled me into a hug, holding me tightly.

“I love you, Lau, but if you do some shit like that again I’ll kill you myself. You hear me?”

“I hear you,” I said.

“We gone get this muthafucka together. I promise.”

[geminology]

Boiiiiiiiiiiii 👀 I see what you did there 😏 ... I like it

Glad you like it, ma'am... 😉

[geminology]

Oohhhhhhh. Dang, you guys come up with the best ideas. Im so here for this. Beast and Blaze at it again. Lau a thug and his twin a cop, boutta take him to the dark side lmao. YES.

Thanks, girl! We’re trying to do something new something different from the norm. We just hope everyone enjoys it!!! Thanks for reading!!

[geminology]

Hi I'm new to your blog and stories so far the one Shadows of Angel is good...but see people talking about this DOWNTOWN story is this in archives of lt-fansfics? I'm really enjoying this keep up the good work...

Thank you so much! We’re glad you’re enjoying it! You can read Downtown here: http://geminology.tumblr.com/downtownfanfic enjoy!!!

[geminology]

Shadows of Angels

Manhattans and Murder

My body tired and my mind still racing from last night's events. I climbed the stairs to my apartment. It was a shit hole, but it was my shit hole along with my brother. It wasn’t the prize home I yearned for, but it was home. Eventually I wanted the big house, white picket fence and the laughter of little Bourgeois’ filling it.

That was the future.

A far off future I wasn’t ready for just yet.

The last stair creaked as I greeted it with my foot. It always did. This place was a hellhole and it was one I was getting out of soon. I just hoped a promotion was in my near future to help me along the way.

I could hear the smooth sounds of Charlie Parker pouring out of the apartment as I got closer. That was brother. Loud, obnoxious and in your face. He was good looking, I mean he was my twin after all so that was given. It was the attention of all the pretty ladies he attracted, the expensive, fancy clothes and the cars that kept him preening like a peacock.

I checked my pocket watch. It was nearing eleven. I knew Lau was either having a party without my knowledge, or he was on his way out for the night—for my body’s sake I was hoping for the latter. I didn’t feel like dealing with my brother’s noisy friends. I turned my key and pushed open the door.

Just as I’d suspected. There was Lau in the mirror primping his hair. He kept his sides low and the middle with an inch or two of hair. My brother, Laurent, always tried to be different when it came to his hair. I didn’t really care for it, but it was better than the ones we saw on television for example, The Duke Ellington—the slicked back permed look, like someone dumped a can of oil over his head.  

“You’re home late." He caught a glance of me coming in through the mirror. "You stepping out with us?"

I closed the door behind me. "Not tonight, Lau, I'm tired. I've been up for almost twenty-four hours.”

I tossed my shoulder holster onto the couch next Duke, one of our oldest friends from the neighborhood we grew up in. After our parents died Duke’s took us in and treated us like family. His mom was our mom and his dad was ours. I loved them and would do anything for them. What they did for me and my brother would never be forgotten and I would make sure of it.

“You never come out with us no more.” That was Duke. He sat on the couch flipping through today’s paper and tapping his foot to the record player.

Duke wasn’t a ladies man like Lau, he was about his money.

Green.

Moolah.

And he didn’t play.

He wasn’t a hard man unless he had to be. Duke was smart, funny and laid back. He was a smooth talker and could sell water to a drowning man. He and my brother were in business together. What business?

I didn’t know.

And I didn’t wanna know.

“That’s because he’s stuck at that dead end job of his,” Lau said.

“I’m not stuck anywhere.”

“Yes he is, Duke. He’s occupying a white space where they don’t give a damn about his black ass. Come on, bro you don’t really think you gone move up.” Lau was now facing me as he sat on couch’s arm.“You smarter than that.”

“It’s true. I gotta agree with him. They already did you a favor by making you detective and I bet they white asses is regrettin’ that. How many black detectives you know in the LAPD?” He paused as if he waiting for my answer and when I didn’t he replied, “most of them are in uniforms walking the beat. You got lucky.”

I didn’t want to hear what they were talking about. I earned my promotion and I planned on earning more.

“Fuck both of you. When I make chief detective of the homicide division I want you two to remember all that shit y’all was talkin,’ and when I make captain I don’t want to hear shit.”

“Chief detective? Captain? You hear that shit, Duke? His ass is really dreamin’ big now! You know what, bro, I hope you get it, because no one deserves it more than you do, but I’m a realist also.”

“Do you ever get tired of being so negative? Times is changing, Lau.”

“Not fast enough. Speakin’ of captains. I heard about Conner’s crooked ass and Lana.”

“Shit’s fucked up. I was there. I saw it all, bro. He shot himself right in front of me.”

“I’m sorry, Larry. Lana was a good girl who got caught up in some bad shit. I know she was one of your oldest friends, but things happen.”

“She was and I’m gonna find out what happened to her, Lau.”

“See there you go stickin’ your nose in shit that has nothing to do with you,” Lau said, shaking his head. "Stay outta that white people shit."

"I can't let it go. I'ma find out what happened to her. I'm going undercover for a few days."

"So you leavin'?" Laurent asked.

"For a few days maybe a week. I don't know yet."

My brother trailed closely behind me as I entered my room.

"You really wanna do this, Larry? Get into some shit you may or may not be able to get out of?"

"I gotta do this— "

"— For Lana, yeah you already said that. If you really want to do this, then you'll need my help."

"And how are you going to help me, Lau?"

"I got ears out in the streets. Nothing goes on without me knowing about it. I'm connected like that. I can get you the info you lookin' for and tonight we put the word out," Lau said.

I was becoming more and more curious about my brother's activities, but I knew it was best that I kept myself in the dark. We had an understanding. I wouldn't snoop around in his business and in return he'd throw me a couple bones, bones I'd never be able to dig up myself.

"Get dressed you comin' out with us tonight," Lau said, as he began rummaging through my closet. "Damn, bro. Do you have anything that says I'm not a cop? Don't worry about it you can borrow something of mine."

I had a funny feeling down in the pit of my stomach. Not the kinda feeling you get after eating something bad, but the feeling that something was about to happen. Something that could either be good, bad or both. I couldn't shake it. The bright neon sign flashed, The Dunbar Hotel.

The Dunbar was the spot to be on Central Ave, and not to mention it housed one of the hottest clubs. It was the place to see and be seen, definitely one of my brother’s spots. I wasn't looking to attract any attention as I resigned to going undercover, but it looked as if Lau had different plans.

"Let's go. I heard some people we might be interested in talkin' to might be here. Let me do all the talkin.’”

Let him do all the talking wasn't something I was particularly comfortable with, but this was his element and he knew how to operate in it. I trusted him. I just hoped nothing went wrong. The jazz music music greeted us before we even got all the way inside the hotel.

The red velvet carpeting guided us further into the hotel as if it was a patrolman stuck on traffic duty. Down the stairs we went with pulsating walls curtesy of the live music being played. The smokey basement filled with hot, sweaty bodies keeping the beat graced the dance floor.

It was contagious.

I nodded my head to the rhythm as we swam through the sea of people separating us from the bar. People, especially the ladies greeted my brother as we made our way through the crowd. Nods of acknowledgments and where-you-beens were tossed my way. Work was the only excuse I had or was willing to give.

I sat on the barstool wanting something to whet my thirst.

"I'll be right back. I see somethin' I need to get into."

I knew what that meant for Laurent. I wouldn't see him for awhile. I looked over in the direction in which he was staring. She was nice looking dame with an innocent nature about her. She stood alone in a corner watching everyone else enjoy themselves. If only she knew of the storm that was about to blow her way. Poor girl.

"Don't forget why we're here, Lau."

"Cool down, baby. I'm always on the job, but pleasure first business later. You need to find you somethin' to get into... maybe someone?" Lau's grin was wider than the Cheshire Cat's.

I waved him off only for him to laugh.

"Where's Duke?" I asked noticing he was no longer in our presence.

"Who knows? He probably found a card game somewhere. I'll catch you in a bit."

"I'll be here," I said, as the bartender approached me.

"I know my eyes ain't deceivin' me! My man Larry, what's cookin' boy?" We slapped hands.

The bartender was none other than Jack, one of my old friends from high school. I hadn't seen him in years and this was the last I expected us to reunite. It was nice to an old face from the past.

"Surviving. What's going on with you?" I asked him.

"Shit. Same as you. Trying to survive in the white man's world that ain't built for niggas like me."

"I can dig that," I said, placing my hat on the bar top.

"Where's that crazy brother of yours?" Jack asked.

"He's around somewhere." I surveyed my surroundings. I guess that was just the cop in me. I always wanted to know who was around and what they were doing.  

"What can I get you, my brother?" My attention was back on Jack.

"Whiskey. Neat," I said.

"You got it."

My eyes were back on the crowd. Everyone seemed to be in their own worlds, the music serving as their guiding lights, lost to it's powerful influence, then I saw her. The dim pendulum lights caused her golden brown skin to glow. The black, long sleeve dress with a deep V along the breast hugged every part of her body just right, and every red blooded male inside the joint saw it too.

A grin painted her red, full lips as the sea of people parted for her like she was Moses himself. The dames shot her looks of disapproval as they whispered to one another. With each step her jet black curls bounced. She was a beautiful girl, the kind of girl trouble followed and I didn't like trouble. She was the type of girl Mama Jones warned us about.

Out of all the places to sit, she had to sit next to me. I kept my eyes on my drink. Afraid that if I looked at her for just second I wouldn't be able to turn away. Playing with a girl like her was like playing with fire and I wasn't looking to get burned. Where the hell was Lau when I actually needed him? The cool liquid hit the back of throat causing the small jitters I had to dissipate.

"How you doin' Miss Lola?" I heard Jack say.

"Fine. Can I get a Manhattan, please?" Her voice was as smooth as my Irish whiskey. Smooth enough to coax any level headed man to do as she pleased.

"Rough night?" Jack asked as he mixed her drink.

She replied, "and it's about to get rougher."

I felt a tap on my shoulder.

It was Lau.

"You ready, bro?"

"Yeah." I downed the last of my drink and threw Jack a see-you-later while placing a five dollar bill under the crystal glass.

I began to follow Lau's lead.

"Excuse me," she called. I turned to see her looking up at me. "You forgot your hat."

"Thanks."

"No problem, handsome."

Before I could say anything else Lau grabbed me, ushering me through the dance floor crowd.

"What the fuck is your problem, Lau?" I asked snatching my arm from him as we approached a door that was on the far end of the club.

"I saw that look in your eyes," he said.

"What look?"

"That look you get when you want something. Stay away from her, Larry."

"I don't even know her—“

"—Good. Keep it that way. Now when we get in here follow my lead.”

“You know this conversation isn’t over, right?” I said, as he pushed open the door.

If I wasn’t intrigued by the young woman at the bar I was now. Laurent knew something about her and I wanted to know just what that was—I would grill him later. I thought she was dangerous, because she was young, beautiful and attracted the company of all those around her. but according to the tone my brother took it made me believe she was dangerous on a whole other level. A level that turned even my brother off.

“Come on, Jermaine whatcha got?”

I could hear Duke’s voice coming from a room that was at the end of the hallway. Laurent closed the door behind us and on we went.

“Hold on, I got something for that ass!” Another voice said, just as we entered the room.

There were five men at the card table including Duke. The other four I didn’t recognize. Judging by the clothes and jewelry these men wore I knew there was some serious green in the room. This would have been a hell of a bust if I was on the right side of the law. I needed this men. They had information that could possibly lead me to Lana’s murderer.

“Damn!” Duke threw his cards down onto the table. “Somebody need to check this nigga’s sleeves!”

“Duke, you in here losin’ all ya money ain’t you?” Lau said.

“Man, fuck you. Matter of fact fuck all y’all cheatin’ ass niggas!”

“Shut yo’ ass up and deal the cards. You come in here night after night, and sit yo’ black ass down in that same chair and play cards. Nigga, you complain when you win and complain when you lose, but you never leave that chair, so shut up and play,” one of the men said.

Duke was mad and being teased. I couldn’t stifle the chuckle that flowed freely from my mouth.

It was true.

Laughter was contagious.

The room erupted with laughter even Duke joined in.

“Before we get to that. There’s some business we need to discuss,” Lau said.

“Cool. Yo, Mike, Roy go watch the door,” The man I’m guessing was the boss said. The two men did as they were told freeing up two spaces for both my brother and I. We sat down. “What’s up, Beast?” the boss said.

“Shit. Jermaine, this is my brother, Blaze.”

“What’s up, Blaze?” Jermaine said. “I’d always heard about Beast’s mythical twin brother no one had ever seen, only heard about. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

I knew my brother went by the street name Beast, and had been since high school. He was feared by many, but loved by the girls. I don’t know what in hell’s name he thought of gracing me with Blaze. What kinda name was that? I guess this was apart of the whole undercover thing.

“Nice to meet you too,” I said.

“What can I do for you?”

“I’m lookin’ for some information you might have on a murder.”

“Whoa, Beast. I don’t know shit about no murder.”

“It’s about Captain Connor.”

“Connor? That piece of shit? I’m glad his ass is dead. Good riddance,” Jermaine said, with a small grin on his face. “Why y’all askin’ about him? What he do die before he pay back some money borrowed?”

“It’s not his death we’re concerned about. It’s his daughter’s.” I chimed in.

“Look, it’s unfortunate she got caught up in her father’s shit, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles sometimes.”

“We’re coming to you, because we thought you might have heard something about it, like who may be involved,” Lau said.

“I don’t want to get into that shit, because I don’t want that comin’ back on me.”

“We get that, Maine, but Lana was a friend. She meant a lot to me and my brother. Remember who got you out of that gun charge last month? That was Blaze.”

“Hold up. You the cop?” He looked at me then my brother. “Beast, you bought a cop in here?”

“Cool out. He’s not after you and he’s not trying to infiltrate your drug and gun operation. We just want a name and we’ll be on our way.”

“Once you get into this shit ain’t no goin’ back,” Jermaine warned.

“We know,” Lau said.

“I don’t know much, but I can find out. All I know is some people said they saw a woman leaving the scene.”

“A woman?” I asked.

I could have sworn Calvin said something about a man at the scene or did he? I needed to get back into the precinct and fast before he was transported to San Quentin.

“Nobody knows who the woman is or if she really did it,” Jermaine said.

“Do you think she’s working with or for someone?”

“I don’t know, but I’ll see what I can find out for you. Say, man thanks for helpin’ me out with the gun thing, and if you need anything let me know. I’ll be in contact soon.”

 I nodded.

We were back in the car. Duke, Lau and I. We sat outside of the club. It was nearing one in the morning and I was beyond tired. I watched as the people poured out of the Dunbar heading in different directions. Those people were the ones I called carefree.

Carefree in a way that they didn’t deal with the day to day stress as those who protected them from the dangers of the streets. Most of them were oblivious to the gunfights, drug deals and murders that happened right on the very streets they conversed on. I took an oath to keep them safe, an oath to take on the criminals that threatened their everyday lives.

“I need to know that you’re all in, Lar.” His voice interrupted my thoughts.

I turned to him.

“This shit gone get dangerous and I need to know that when it gets rough—and it will—you’ll pull the trigger. That badge you got inside your jacket ain’t worth shit on these streets. You’re in my world now and ain’t no hidin’ behind the title detective. You are no longer Detective Larry Bourgeois, you are Blaze. You’ve always seen the streets from your side of the law, now it’s time to see it from my point of view. You headin’ down a dark path. Can you handle it?”

“I got you, Lau. I know what I have to do and I’m glad you’re here with me.”

“We came in together, we go out together. I’ll always be here when you need me.”

“And vice versa,” I said. He started the engine. “Where to now?”

“I got a place not too far from here where we can crash.”

“So now you keepin’ secrets?”

“Nothing like that. It’s just a little get away I take every now and then. I do it for your sake.” He winked.

I didn’t know what I was about to get in to. Not yet nor did I realize how much my life was about to change, the decisions I was gonna have to make and the sacrifices that were going to come with it. Lau was right although I would never tell him that, but he path I was about to head down was dark and twisted. Was I ready for that?

I approached the apartment building that wasn’t too far from the Dunbar Hotel and walked in. I knew what I was looking for the moment I stepped out of the cool night air. The mailboxes. They were located right in front of me. My manicured finger slid across the name plates until I saw his. I was ready just like all of the other nights. My pulse raced and my heart thumped inside of my chest. I checked myself in my compact and applied another coat of Jungle Red lipstick. Vain that way I was, but hell, I had a reason.

I reached the top of the staircase. At the end of the hall was the door I was looking for, the door marked with the number eight and when I reached it; I knocked. I heard a thud and mumbled curse words on the other side of the door before it opened.

“Can I help you?” He said, impatiently as if I'd disturbed him.

“Are you Mr. Jackson?”

“Who’s asking?” He was now in a defensive stance.

I loved when they challenged me. “Do you mind if we speak inside?” I asked as sweetly as my tongue would permit.

“What is this about Miss?” He asked crossing his arms, but never budging from the doorway.

“I really think we should talk about this inside.”

“I think we’re fine right here. Who are you and what do you want?”

I was growing tired of this whole cat and mouse thing. I was ready to get this over and done with. I had other places I wanted to be and this wasn't one.

“Mickey Cohen says you owe him some money for a loan you received a couple months back, and now he wants it all and I’m here to collect. I’m only going to be patient with you for so long.” I gritted my teeth ready to bare them if needed.

“I told him when I got the money I would pay him back. Now, go tell him that.” He attempted to close the door.

I stopped it with my favorite heels. He would pay for scuffing them. “Not so fast.” My gun was now pulled and ready. He backed into the apartment slowly. I closed and locked it. “Where’s the money, Mr. Johnson?”

“Look, I don’t have it all right now. I’m trying. I just need a few more days. I swear I’ll pay it all back!”

I shook my head. I didn't understand why people borrowed money they knew they would never be able to pay back. It didn't mean much to me whether he did or not. I was a collector and when I couldn't collect the money, I collected your soul. Death had a face, a very nice one at that.

“Mr. Cohen doesn’t have a few more days.” I aimed my gun at him.

“Wait! Please I’m begging you, miss. I have a wife and a son. Don’t do this please have a heart.” He fell to his knees hoping I would show him mercy.

Little did he know I was merciless, but he was about to find out.

“I’m sorry Mr. Johnson it’s out of my hands.” I fired the weapon twice into Mr. Johnson’s skull.

His limp body lie on the floor next to the couch that was covered in his blood. Mr. Johnson’s brains were splattered on the white walls and some of the picture frames I assumed was of his wife and son. I placed the gun back into my clutch and left.

Down the stairs when I went as quick as I came. Two men were coming up. I prayed to anyone who was listening that they would leave me be so I could leave the building without being seen by anyone else. I took a deep breath and  attempted to walk past the two men.

“You looking real good, miss lady.” I heard one of them say.

I tried my best to ignore them until the man in white grabbed grabbed my arm.

 “I know you heard my man talking to you. Thank him for the compliment,” he said, tightening his grip.

He looked into my eyes, which I guess he thought was threatening; I didn’t even put up a struggle as I reached into my bra and pulled out a blade. My hands were quick when the blade glided across the man’s throat. His grasp on my arm loosened and down he went.

“You crazy bitch!” The other man said.

He looked at me before attempting to run.

He was too slow.

My blade caught him in the back. He fell to the ground while I stepped over the man in white’s body and walked towards the man in black, who was slumped in front of the building’s front door.

I pulled my blade from his back and proceeded out of the door. My heels echoed as they hit the cement sidewalk. There was a local cafe that wasn’t too far and I was approaching it. I went inside and made my way towards the bar.

“Excuse me, sir, do you have a phone?” I asked the bartender.

It’s in the back,” he said.

“Thank you.”

To the back I went and there was the phone. I picked it up.

“Operator, can you get me WI 2541 please,” I said.

“Connecting you now.”

“Hello?” he answered.

“It’s done.”

"Your father wants to see you tomorrow."

"Of course he does,” I said, hanging up the phone.

[geminology]

But why the suspect sound like Lau tho'. Anyway im so excited about this. Larry a cop. I am here for it .

We have no idea why he sounds like Lau... lol. But we are glad you and the rest of the ladies are enjoying this! It is something totally different from Downtown and we hope you love it just as much!! 😊😊

[geminology]

Shadows of Angels

 A Man Walks Into A Bar... 

The pitter patter of rain and Charles Mingus echoed through my office, I sipped the amber colored liquid that filled my crystal glass and looked out at my city as the raindrops rolled down the window pane. My city was beautiful; the way the Hollywoodland sign lit up the night sky, building lights reflected into the wet street creating a reflection for the root beer billboard like a mirror.

It was late around 2:45 to be exact, my partner and I had wrapped up a case that involved the captain’s daughter who had dreams of becoming the next Lauren Bacall. She moved out here from the Midwest to be with her father and of course to be on the silver screen. I didn't understand why these girls wanted that life; sure it looked glamorous on the outside, but I heard stories about what those girls had to do just to get on the casting couch, and that wasn't so glamorous.

Unfortunately her dreams were suddenly crushed when we found her body in the alley behind a bar that housed some of LA's slimiest. We caught the “killer” in the back of Ray's bar drowning himself in four fingers of rye shouting how he was setup.

The suspect we had didn't seem like a killer; he didn't have that look in his eyes, that look other murderers had. The way my boss carried his daughter’s murder was even stranger. He walked around as if nothing even happened, as if his daughter’s forehead didn't hold a bullet wound the size of Texas.

Joe’s grunting caused me to turn my attention towards him. Joe was laid out on the couch in another drunken stupor snoring his ass off. The kid had seen a lot of things in his day and drinking was the only way he knew how to cope with it, especially with this case and what happened with the captain. Joe looked up to the captain like a father since his wasn't around. Let me take you back to the beginning. This is how it all started.

One week ago...

My partner and I arrived on the scene around three in the morning last Saturday, and I was running low on energy. I knew I wasn't going to see my bed anytime soon. We walked towards the crime scene that was surrounded by the bright yellow tape with the words caution written on it in bold black letters.

"Morning, John," Joe said, tipping his hat.

The medical examiner looked up from his pad, his eyes landing on us.

"Bourgeois, Woodard," he nodded.

'What do we got?" I asked as we walked under the yellow crime scene tape.

"Caucasian female about twenty-one years of age, no identification on her. A couple witnesses claim she came out of the bar just fifteen minutes before someone found her. Another said they saw a man walk out behind her,” he replied.

I looked up and saw the words Ray’s Bar in red neon cursive letters.

“Where’s the body?” Joe asked John the medical examiner.

“Follow me,” He said.

“What do we know about the whereabouts of the male suspect?” I asked John as we followed him down the alley.

"They got him in the patty wagon if you want to ask him some questions, he kept yelling he was innocent and they set him up.”

“Who are they?” Joe asked.

“He wouldn't say who “they” were just kept screaming he was set up.” John said, stopping in front of the body.

“We’ll question him once we’re done here, let’s see her,” I said.

John nodded his head and pulled the white sheet that was covering her body off of her face.

“Isn’t that…”

“Yeah that’s her Joe,” I said, finishing his sentence.

“Has anyone contacted the captain yet?” I asked.

“He’s already been here, he left about thirty minutes before you guys got here. He came looked at the body, identified her and left. It was weird, he didn't ask about any evidence or if we had any suspects as well as witnesses,” John said, as he covered her body back up.

“Maybe he was really hurt by the situation and didn't know what to say. This is his daughter, you never know how a parent will react to their child’s death,” Joe said.

“That’s true Joe, but the captain is usually the first one on the scene and the last to leave. He treats every case as if it’s personal and for him to leave the scene of his daughter’s murder doesn't sit right with me, and I know you feel it too.

“I don’t know, Larry, I’m still not convinced. I’ll go question the suspect you check out the scene and we’ll meet back at the station,” Joe said.

I nodded my head as I bent down to where John had been standing. I uncovered her body. She was wearing a pink silk blouse, a black pencil skirt that clung to her lower half, and some black peep toe kitten heels. I examined the place where she was shot.

“She was most likely hit by a .45 caliber, I’ll know more once we get back to the morgue.” John said.

I nodded. The crime scene was clean meaning she killed by a professional; someone who knew what police would look for. I ran my flashlight over the dark alley once more before I headed back to the station. My light caught something shiny, I walked over to the trashcan and there was a .45 just as John suspected.

I called over to technical support to bag the weapon. There’s no way the suspect that was sitting inside a holding cell killed Lana, he didn't seem stable enough to plan a murder, execute it, and then have the remorse he carried with him back to the station. I walked towards my 1945 Cadillac Sedan, stopping at the ambulance where John was standing.

“I want the full report before it’s handed off to anyone else. Got it?” I said causing John to look up.

“You got it, Larry,” John said.

The red neon sign of Ray’s Bar flashed off the wet ground as I made my way to the car, it was chilly out and there was a slight breeze that made me wish I wore a jacket. I couldn't help, but to feel as if someone was watching me. I looked over my shoulder , I saw two men leaning against the bar smoking cigarettes with their heads slightly down, their fedora’s pulled over their eyes but I knew they were watching me.

I opened my car door and got in, I started the engine and pulled off. I looked in my rearview mirror and there were the two men behind me in a dark colored ‘47 Chevy Fleetline. I noticed the men when we first arrived at the crime scene watching and listening. I was willing to bet my last dollar they were somehow involved, and maybe they were the “they” our suspect was referring to, and I was determined to find out.

Ten minutes had passed and they were still on my trail, I pulled into the station’s parking lot and the men rode past me. I made sure to write down their license’s plate to give to Pete down in technical support. I walked into the station and immediately walked over to the Watch Commander’s desk.

“Larry, your partner is waiting for you down in the hold cells,” Tom, the Watch Commander said, as I approached him.

“Thanks Tom, do you think you could get this down to Pete in technical support. Tell him this is urgent, and I need him to get back to me ASAP.” I said, handing Tom the piece of paper where I had written down the plate’s numbers.

“No problem.” 

I walked into the room that was guarded by two officers. I saw Joe standing inside the cell where our current suspect was being held.

“Larry, what the hell took you so long?” Joe asked as I approached the cell.

“Police work,” I shrugged.

I sat down across from the suspect who now had his head in his hands sobbing loudly.

“Tell us what happened and we’ll see what we can do for you, but we need you to tell us the truth,” I said, trying to give him some comfort.

He lifted his head from his hands and looked at me.

“I told you I was set up, I didn't kill that girl I found her like that,” he said.

“Then how do you explain the blood on your hands and shirt.” Joe said.

“I was outside smoking cigarette minding my own business when I heard a gunshot so I went into the alley to see what was going on. I saw someone standing over a woman, in a long, black overcoat, black pants, leather gloves and black hat that covered half of their face. He looked over at me, tossed the gun towards me and I caught it. I panicked and threw the gun in the trashcan, but I checked the girl to see if she was okay, and she wasn't so I went back inside the bar. That’s what happened I swear!” He said.

“You didn't see his face at all?” I asked.

“N-n-no I didn’t,” the suspect said. 

“Don’t lie to us,” Joe said.

“I can’t say...” the suspect said, in a whispered tone.

“If you don't help us the judge’ll send you to the gas chamber, Mister..” I said, remembering that I didn't know his name.

“Johnson. Calvin Johnson. Look, I really want to help, but I can’t!” Calvin yelled.

“This is useless,” Joe said throwing his hands up in defeat.

“Larry,  Joe, what are you doing down here?” Captain Conner asked.

“I don’t want anyone down here questioning him except me.” His voice boomed.

“But sir, we were assigned to this case.” Joe said.

“I don’t give a damn! As of this moment you two are off the case, now get upstairs for reassignment!” The captain said.

My partner and I walked out of the room where the holding cells were, but I couldn’t help feeling as if something wasn’t right about leaving Calvin alone with the captain.

“What now?” Joe asked.

“We head to technical services and see what they found about the weapon,” I said.

“But we’ve been reassigned.” Joe said.

“An innocent man is about to be charged with a murder he didn't commit.” I said.

“So you’re saying you believe him?” Joe asked.

“You don’t? That man didn’t kill anyone, his only crime is him not giving up the murderer. You can do what you want Joe, but I’m solving this case with or without you,” I said.

“I better get a big, shiny commendation for this, Bourgeois!” 

“What do we got Pete?” I asked walking into technical support.

“The gun was definitely the murder weapon, she was shot execution style,” Pete said.

“How do you know it was execution style?” I asked.

“The barrel of the gun left a burn mark on her forehead,” Pete replied.

“We know someone wanted her dead, but why is the question,” I said, more to myself.

“Did you run the license plate I told Tom to give to you?” I asked.

“I didn't get anything from Tom, maybe he forgot.” Pete said, shrugging his shoulders.

“Luckily I remembered the plates. It was 230P214,” I said.

“I’ll run it by R&I and get it to you through KGPL,” Pete said.

“Thanks, and let me know if you find out anything else.” 

“I’ll help you, but only because it’s the captain’s daughter,” Joe said, as we walked outside of the LAPD.

“You’ll help me, because you want the praise,” I said.

“That too, but color me intrigued by this whole case,” Joe said, opening the car door.

“KGPL to Adam 12,” the dispatcher said, over the radio.

“KGPL, go ahead,” Joe said, into the radio.

“We ran the plates consisting of 230P21. It’s registered to a Don Earle of 731 Harper Avenue.” KGPL replied.

“Adam 12 en route,” Joe said.

“Who is Don Earle?” Joe asked as we pulled into the street.

“When I left the crime scene two men followed me all the way here so I had Pete run the plates through records and identification,” I said.

“Oh I see,” Joe replied.

We had arrived at Earle’s. Joe opened his car door when we saw a car pull up to Earle’s place.

“Hold on Joe someone just pulled up,” I said, to Joe causing him to close his door.

“Who is it?” Joe asked squinting trying to get a better look.

I looked at the person getting out of the car and it was the captain.

“It’s Captain Conner,” I said.

“Can’t be,” Joe said, in disbelief.

We watched as he went inside the apartment building. We both got out and went inside.

“Earle’s in apartment number three,” Joe said, looking at the mailboxes.

We made our way down the hallway and approached the door. I put my finger to my lips and Joe nodded. With my ear to the door I listened to the voices inside.

“I thought I told you idiots to get rid of the gun! Detective Bourgeois almost caught on to you two dummies!” I heard Conner’s muffled voice say.

I couldn't believe it he killed his daughter, but why? What would make a man do such a thing, and now I knew Tom was in on it too. Pete not getting my message was no accident. I looked at Joe and signaled to him. I stood up and pointed my gun at the door before nodding to Joe. He kicked it in and the looks on the two men faces were priceless.

“LAPD!” I said, my weapon still at the ready.

Captain Conner took off towards the window.

“Call for backup I’ll go after Conner,” I said to Joe before chasing Conner.

The captain was quick on his feet. He jumped out of the window and I was hot on his trail. Luckily we still on the first floor. He ran across the dimly lit street, thankfully no was out. His feet slowed tremendously, he was losing steam. He stopped and faced me sensing he wouldn't get away. I stopped as well my gun aimed.

“Conner, I know you killed your daughter. Why?” I asked out of breath.

“Leave it alone or they’ll soon be after you too. You know too much, Bourgeois,” he said.

“Who will be after me? Why did you kill Lana?” I asked.

Captain Conner said nothing as he reached into his jacket pocket. He placed his service weapon to his temple and let a round go. His limp body lay there on the green wet grass that was now painted red with his blood. There were so many unanswered questions, who were “they” and what did “they” want? There was so much corruption, betrayal, and murder in the city it was hard to know who you could trust and who was on the pad, whether it was the captain, the Watch Commander, or your partner and at that moment I made up my mind about who I could trust.

[geminology]

😏 thank you Yall awesome... Please give me a few weeks to grow back my snatched edges 😂😂

What you smirking for? LOL! Thank you girl for always supporting Downtown (and us). Now let's pray for your edges. Amen.

[geminology]

Downtown will always be dear to my heart, because you allowed me to be one of the characters. I knew Laurent wasn't died. He was way too important to this story to go out like that. I'm glad they got their happily ever after. You ladies are amazing.

Thank you for supporting the story and enjoying it so much! We're glad that we gave the boys the ending they deserved!

[geminology]

This was such a great fic.but wait you said its not over yet? Hot damn that makes me happy if its true. Im just glad my Lau Lau not dead.

Thank you so much! Downtown is definitely done...or is it? Lol but we're glad Lau isn't dead either! 😏

[geminology]

Awwww 😌😌😌. This was everything. Thank you.

No, thank you for reading & commenting ma'am!

[geminology]

MY HEART! It has been revived! It's beating and pumping blood all over again. Thank goodness. You two are just... Fantastic. Perfection. The absolute best! I love you! Yall slayed me with this masterpiece and have replenished my scalp with hair! I'm no longer bald! Thank you. I appreciate yall.

LOL! Your comment slayed US. Thank you so much for reading & commenting & showing love. We 'preciate y'all so much!

[geminology]

With the posting of the Epilogue Downtown is now complete! We want to thank all of our readers for sticking with us and being patient! We enjoyed all of the positive feedback we’ve gotten from you all as well as the likes and reblogs! We are saddened that Downtown is over, but this isn’t the end! We love you all and stay tuned!!!

-Geminology