To our super agent, Mr. Marc Gerald: You are the best at what you do, and I think this new relationship is a perfect fit. Can’t wait to see what the future has in store. Thanks for everything that you do and for having our best interests at heart.
To Molly, Sasha, Natalie, Brenda, and Denard: Thanks for all of your hard work. I appreciate each of you.
To Davida Baldwin: your creations are unmatchable and so remarkable. You are so talented and I thank you for the wonderful cover designs. You’re the best at what you do.
To all of the readers: I value you more than you will ever know. Thank you for riding with A &J. I hope to never disappoint you. I love what I do, and I put every piece of me into these stories. I appreciate your loyalty and support. Without the fans, we would be irrelevant. I hope you enjoy our new classic.
Ashley Antoinette Coleman
ONE
“BLOW HIS MUTHA’FUCKIN BRAINS OUT, A’SHAI!” the man ordered. His heavy accent laced every word as he stared at the young rebel that stood before him. The boy was inexperienced when it came to murder and was intimidated by the chaotic madness that he was amidst. The older rebel looked at his protégé while slyly grinning in sick satisfaction, as he anticipated the fatal gunshot. A’shai’s hands shook as he held the rifle firmly and looked into the terrified eyes of the man who lay on the ground. A’shai was only twelve years old and was about to kill for the first time. The man who was about to become a victim was three times A’shai’s age; tears filled his eyes as he begged A’shai for mercy.
“Do it!” the older rebel instructed A’shai as he smiled in amusement. A’shai’s mind urged him to pull the trigger, but his index finger wouldn’t budge.