Page 238 of When a Soul Cries

“Yes.” Rome placed the verification packet on the table. “Don't take our word for it. Verify it yourselves.”

Desmond's expression darkened. “You two really forgot where you came from. You wouldn't have half this shit if it wasn't for people like me.”

There it was.

I stepped closer. “You did business with us because it made you money. Stop rewriting history like you built us. We don't owe you shit.”

Rome's voice stayed calmer than mine.

“What we built after leaving the streets belongs to us. Leave our business alone.”

The Hollis executive closed the folder. “Given the discrepancies presented today, Hollis cannot move forward with your proposal. Our legal team will conduct its own review.”

Desmond shoved his chair backward. “This is bullshit.”

“Then you should have no reason to be concerned,” the attorney replied.

Desmond's eyes moved between me and Rome. “This ain't over.”

I almost opened my mouth.

Rome looked at me.

I closed it.

Growth.

Desmond left with his people, and after Hollis reviewed enough of what we'd brought, the senior executive turned toward Rome.

“Devereaux Development's proposal was already our leading legitimate option. If you're still prepared to proceed under the previously negotiated terms, Hollis is prepared to finalize today.”

Rome opened his briefcase.

“The contract is ready.”

Of course it was.

This nigga probably slept with contracts underneath his pillow.

Twenty minutes later, signatures were done and handshakes exchanged.

The Hollis contract belonged to Devereaux Development.

Legitimately.

The elevator doors had barely closed before I looked at Rome.

“You're welcome.”

“For?”

“You can't be serious.”

“I believe Darius did most of the work.”

“Darius ain't walk in there looking this good.”

Rome laughed.