Second Chance - 3

 +++

It was nearly Christmas and Jeremiah snuck Maddox out while Janine was out with her girlfriends. "Your wife is killing our flow ..." Jeremiah said to Maddox as they got in his car. "Do you HAVE to keep her?"

"Man, fuck outta here, she ain't going nowhere."

"Alright, alright!" They got into the car and drove off. The drive from beachside was almost 30 minutes before they pulled into a neighborhood with nice homes. They parked and walked a few houses down, then into a house. Music was going, but not too loud. There were poker tables and other card games set up all over the first floor and bars set up on the second landing overlooking downstairs. Jeremiah whispered, "just have my back at the tables, man."

"Not a problem " Maddox just looked around.

They walked through, spoke to a few folks, then they walked up to the guy who apparently owned the place, "Maddox ... This is Antonio. Antonio ... Maddox," Jeremiah introduced them.

Antonio raised an eyebrow at Jeremiah, then shook hands with Maddox. He then turned back to Antonio, "are your hands clean this time?"

Jeremiah raised them like he was surrendering, "hospital grade antimicrobial cleansers, bro,"

"Enjoy yourselves," he chuckled and walked away.

Jeremiah looked at Maddox and grinned, "lets get a seat somewhere."

"What was that about?"

"Nothing," they sat at a Blackjack table, "he's just being funny," Jeremiah assured him. "If there were a problem, I wouldn't have been invited. Right?" He turned to a young woman walking with gambling chips. He traded a wad of cash for some chips, then looked at the dealer, 'deal me in."

Half an hour they sat at the Blackjack table. Jeremiah walked away with a little over 5grand. He grinned at Maddox, "you not playing?" He held out some money to him.

"Nah im good.." Maddox looked around, "you done?"

"No way. Too many suckers around here ... Let's get drinks," they went upstairs and greeted the woman who was working the small bar. Jeremiah chatted with her while looking around a bit, then he and Maddox walked back downstairs, "new dealer at the black jack table. We can go there or somewhere else. Aye ... Roulette." They walked in that direction, "come on ... Try not to have a stick up your ass tonight, man."

"Alright alright..." Maddox went into his wallet and headed to the poker table, pulled out 5 100 dollar bills and looked to Jeremiah, "go big or go home huh?"

"Exactly." They stood playing roulette. Both of them winning ever so often. Halfway through, Jeremiah put a big pile of chips on the table on Red25, kissed the dice and then threw them. He hit and started yelling. He hit again, then two more times. After the last time, he started scooping up his chips, "alright, we good, let's go," he looked around, holding all the chips and rushed over to the cash-out table. He smiled at the girl as she counted out his and Maddox's winnings. As she was loading the money into a briefcase, Jeremiah started to get antsy. The two of them started to the door. Jeremiah noticed the roulette guy pointing at them and then security came. "Shit! Move it!" He said to Maddox as they started running.

"Fuck! are you shittin me?" Maddox took off running putting his All-State gold medal in Track to good use. 

Jeremiah grinned as they weaved through the crowd quickly. A lot of 'STOP' and 'HEY' and 'GET THOSE ASSHOLES' were heard as the two men were stopped at the door by a guard. Jeremiah looked around, then hit the dude in the face with his briefcase and hauled ass out of there. "Catch!" He told Maddox. He tossed his briefcase to him and pulled his keys from his pocket. He unlocked the car and started it with the keyless entry. They got in and drove away. "SHIT! THAT WAS CLOSE!" Jeremiah was pounding on the wheel out of sheer excitement as they drove away.

Maddox was fuming. He looked to him, "I told you to keep me out of your shit because of my wife. You really that fuckin selfish, knowing i could lose her if we end up getting caught because of your bullshit?!"

"It was just some weighted dice. Chill ... Besides ... She won't leave you, man. And look! We got away clean."

"Principle man, principle. Take me home."

"Damn dude. Lighten up!" Jeremiah smiled, "how much you win? Huh? How much?"

"7 Gs.." he paused, "and i'm not kidding, take me home."

"I got 15. Just show her the money and you be alright." They drove to Maddox's house. "I'll see you Sunday for the game."

"Yep.." they slapped hands and Maddox got out and went inside his house.

Janine hadn't long gotten home. She was standing in the foyer with her heels in one hand and cell phone in the other. She'd just opened her Messages to send one to Maddox when she heard the door open. She turned, "there you are."

"Hey love..." he grabbed her by her head and kissed her lips, "i missed you."

"I missed you too. Anya and the girls and i went for happy hour." she started walking off but looked at the briefcase, "what's that?"

"Nothing baby, just did a little light gambling," he sat it on the coffee table.

Janine frowned but also smiled a little, "at least you didn't come home broke."

"I want you to take half of it and do whatever you want with it. I'm putting the rest in our retirement savings."

She laughed, "just put it all in there. We're about to start having kids and kids are notoriously expensive."

"True..." Maddox sighed, loosening his tie.

"You okay?" she looked him over a good while.

"Just a little pissed, but I'll be cool baby, dont worry. Want to get a shower in?" He pulled the tie off and then started unbuttoning his shirt as they stood in the livingroom.

She dropped her heels and took her hair down. She didn't know what he got into while gambling but he looked tense. Must have been with that fucker Jeremiah. Walking to him, she helped him undo his pants then took off her dress, "let's go."

+++

Undercover Superstar - 17

 | Half Hour Later |

    They danced to KBs record and had a couple of drinks. Janine had loosened up considerably and it was what she needed. All it really meant was she didn't want to shoot him in the face with the shotgun she had but hadn't touched since she moved. They stopped momentarily and leaned on the railing. She thought about telling him to call her but wasn't sure if that was what she wanted. She didn't know what she wanted at all. She stood there trying to figure it out and blurted out, "ever come to Texas?"

    "Only twice in my entire life ..." he scooted closer to her, "should i ..... Go to Texas?"

    She shrugged, "we have one season. Hot. I can't trust you." Janine frowned, her own response didn't even make sense to her.

    He laughed, "me either, I'm too unreliable, i fuck shit up for myself all the time."

    "At some point, trust will not be optional."

    "I know that... Trust me i know."

    "I'm here until Sunday afternoon. We should talk somewhere that isn't a club." Janine looked around the club ... Anywhere but at him.

    "You name the place and the time."

    "Tomorrow. Central Park Zoo at noon? No ... Too public. We could eat lunch at Extra Virgin on 4th."

    "Ok, I'll cancel my meetings..." Maddox smiled.

    "You don't have to do that."

    "I know, but I'm going to."

    "Ok ... Then. I'll see you tomorrow," smiling a little, "i better get back ... To KB."

    He nodded, "ok..." He then leaned into her and kissed her temple.

    After that, they went their separate ways. Janine looked around and found KB in the middle of some folks, and Tarin off to the side taking pictures. She got 2 drinks, then joined Tarin and handed her one. "What was that all about?" Tarin smirked, "he trying to win his spot back?"

    "Yes," Janine sighed, "and doing a really good job at it. I really hate that." Despite the fact that Janine gave no details as to why they broke up, she let whoever run rampant with their own opinions.

    "Make him work hard, at least, girl."

    Janine agreed, "I live in Texas anyhow. It's not like things will be like they were before."

| The Next Day - Noon |

    Janine was sitting in a booth towards the back of the restaurant when she saw a flock of people moving around the window. Camera flashes followed and she knew Maddox had shown up. He walked in the place and Janine held her hand up when she stood. He smiled and pulled her into a hug, "how are you?"

    "I'm good," she rubbed his back and then sat down. "How is your day? You had to move around a lot of stuff?"

    "3 meetings, but its fine. Just music stuff. New record coming out at the beginning of the year."

    "So about ... Us. What do you want to do? Cause i don't know."

    "Well, I'll get a house in texas, so i can properly court you."

    Right then she laughed, "you're going to court me. My grandmother is going to love you."

    "Absolutely, you think i dont know how to work for mine?" He paused, "but your father already hates me ... Dammit."

    "My mom will love you. She doesn't know anything so my dad will have to suck it up."

    "Well that's the plan..."  He smiled.

    "Okay then. We start over ... Sort of."

| 2 months later |

    Maddox ended up buying a nice condo, somewhere in Dallas that had two bedrooms. One was his and another was for Janine whenever she decided too come over. He stocked it with: clothes, jewelry, shoes, a vanity, a chaise, and basically any girly thing she'd need to be comfy at his house. In his new Texas surroundings, it humbled him so he wore jean shorts, Jordan's and polo's a lot, but never sacrificed his grooming, always had a tight fade, and pearly write teeth  Janine was on her way up in the elevator to check out his new place.

    She'd just left school and therefore was dressed teacher appropriate in khaki Capri's, flats, and a blue button up with the school logo on it. She'd planned on changing when she got there anyway. He opened the door and she whistled, "first time Ive been in The W. Well, I came once to get waxed at the spa downstairs but never been up here."

    "Welcome..." He pecked her on the lips.

    "You look comfortable," she walked in further.

    "I am, I use to dress like this all the time." He looked down, "look good?"

    "I love it. And don't be alarmed when you see me in cowboy boots. I wear them often."

    "So, does your dad know i live here? That we're, back together?"

    She nodded and looked around, "I told him. He yelled at me and I gave him a piece of lemon pie."

    He laughed, "distraction, i love it," he wrapped his arms around her from behind and began to kiss her neck.

    "You have plans today?" She smiled, "that's not Adidas you're wearing. What is that?"

    "Gucci ..." Maddox brought his teeth to her ears, "I just got turned on.." The wind could blow and Maddox could get turned on.

    Janine chuckled, "stop messing around." She gently slapped his leg, "at least let me get a shower and change before you get going."

    "Naw, i want you dirty..." He turned her around, and put her over his shoulder.

    "Oh wow ..." She laughed again as he took her to the bedroom.

Later |

     When they were done and showered and changed, Janine sat in her favorite spot, with her legs laid across his lap, "is this like Tennessee?"

    "Tennessee is more country, more green too."

    "Smaller ..." She nodded. "I can see that. How long are you here this trip?"

    A week," he massaged her feet.

    "Would you mind if I needed to grade papers while I'm here? Or you want me to do that at home before i get here. It's math. It will take a bit."

    "You can do it here, of course.."

    "What a sweet pea. How is your family? Especially your extra sweet grandma."

    "Great, ya-ya keeps asking about you... She asked when we were getting married, i told her next fall," he snickered.

    She smiled and shook her head, "how old is she? She probably does want to see you married soon since you're already in your mid thirties."

    "She's 84."

    "Doesn't look it. My grandmother doesn't look her age either. At least we'll be very good looking in our old age."

    "Get old? I'm staying right where i am. 36 agrees with me."

Undercover Superstar - Chapter 7

| Much Later |

The driver had driven around until they were finished, and then he headed to maddox's estate in the hamptons, which wasn't too far since the driver had been going in that direction anyways. Fastening his pants, Maddox pulled a cigar from a secret compartment and rolled the window down a little, "was it as good for me as it was for you?" He joked hardly smiling.

She chuckled, "yes. If I were a smoker, I'd have one with you."

He nodded, "you impressed me, wasn't as vanilla i assumed you would be." He put the cigar out after a few more puffs

She turned her lip up at him and pulled her blazer closed, "you thought I was square."

"You seemed like such a good girl, i didn't know how nasty you could get," he popped a few mints, "I'm gonna have some fun with you."

"I am. And now I wish I had clothes ..." She chuckled.

"i got you covered."

"That ... I appreciate," she took a breath, then leaned back.

+

Not long after, they arrived at Maddox's. They were let out and went inside, Janine holding her purse and the blazer closed, "are you sure you don't want me to cook?" She said once they went inside.

"Naw, I'll just put an order in with the cook," Maddox sent a text to the kitchen and led Janine to the bathroom.

"Yes!" Janine was excited to get in the shower after the car ride over. When she was there before, she never went inside Maddox's bedroom so the multiple jets in the shower made her giggle. "This reminds me of when I got a detachable shower head at my apartment ... I really thought I was moving up in the world."

"Right." He shook his head as he peeled off his and snatched her by her collar and pecked her on her lips and then removed her clothes and then pushed her toward the shower."

They showered and jacked around, after Janine dried off, she brushed her teeth and dug through her purse and combed her hair then waited for the magical clothes Maddox had for her.

"Follow me..." He walked off, naked as shit, he didn't give a fuck about it. It was his place. They walked clear over to the other side of the estate, and he walked her to a room that look like it was for a girl, he pushed her toward the closet, have at it.

"Aren't you nice," Janine shook her head and went through the stuff, she found underwear and a nightgown.

"The sweetest in the business..." He smirked, "i like you... I've decided." He spoke randomly.

"It was only a matter of time," she rubbed his abs and walked passed him.

"That's kind of a big deal, you know that right?"

"Yes. Now come on, naked ass, let's go sit and talk. Your hang time," she pointed to his Dick, "is distracting."

"Feel free to touch it whenever u want," he gripped her ass, "so, have you ever had shooting lessons?"

"It's been years since I've touched a gun. It was a hunting rifle when I was around 10."

His smile got big, "we're going tomorrow, I'm a gun man, and I'm a damn good shot. I never miss."

"Really? I never would have thought," they sat on his bed after walking back over there, "I know a little about guns but nothing substantial."

"I'll teach you... Then we'll get you licensed."

"Cool. Now ..." She laid back and propped one leg up while the other hung off the side of the bed, "you like me," then looked at him.

"Yea... It took a whole year."

"Doesn't matter how long it took. You were on tour and getting served 10 ways from Friday."

He nodded, "i had to keep my sanity, thats the only way i was able to respect your space or i would've taken you down ages ago."

"You wouldn't have."

"I'll let you have it. Women say it until they are put into that position, so... If it makes you feel better."

"It does make me feel better because I believe it to be true. Nobody gets between my legs until I decide to let it happen. I get that you're all-confident, but so am I." She rolled over and kissed the corner of his mouth, then moved to the head of the bed and pulled the covers back.

He laughed, "mhm... Aren't you hungry? I had the chef make you a Greek salad , in case.." He robbed his hands up her thigh and back down.

"Ooo I'll take it." She got out of bed.

Just as they sat in their seats in the kitchen a couple of guards came in, "there's been a breach of security, Doc."

Janine caught the name and raised her brow. Maddox nodded and looked to Janine, "stay put, ok? I'll be right back."

"Okay ..." She looked a little funny, but ate and stayed put as they rushed out wondering why they called him Doc and what the fuck of going on.

Maddox rushed with his men, the area where some men had already been making their way toward, in the process he was handed a bullet proof vest and a gun, as they could heat distant shots clearlwy where the breach happened. Cocking his gun, getting to the door, he peeked in and motioned for the guards to get behind him. He knew exactly where to go, who the intruders were. Seconds later, he stepped from around the corner and just unloaded. It was astonishing to see him in action, as he ran out of bullets, he tucked and rolled, side swiping the last standing invader, and putting that nigga to sleep in one punch. A little winded, he motioned for one of his men to clean the mess up and another to put the guy he knocked out in an underground cell, "i knew shit was quiet for a reason. What the fuck are all of you doing. I told you what i wanted my night to look like and you mythbusters let this shit happen?! Look about to finish my fuckin steak, get this shit spotless!"

Maddox tore off his vest, and tossed yhe gun to the ground for them to pick up. He headed back to janine, "hows that salad?" He knew she couldn't hear any shooting from the kitchen so he carried on like nothing happened.

"Its great. So do i ask the obvious questions or leave it alone?"

"Leave it."

"Not even of i make an absurd pouty face?" She grinned.

"I imagine that to be really cute, but, sweetheart, no..." He paused, "but I'll answer anything else."

"Then let's talk about this gun thing. When I was younger, I had a very hard time holding a regular hand gun. Is their any way I can be upgraded to something big? The kickback makes me feel like a badass."

"We'll start small and take steps up. Can't jump into the big guns just yet."

"But I'm awesome ... Fine," she kept eating.

"Awesome and very small, lets work up to it. Do you want kids?"

"Yes. At least 2. You?"

"5." He finished chewing the bite he just took.

"I'm actually not surprised."

"Oh yeah?" He brought her chair close to him.

"Would you adopt?"

"If i couldn't have kids, but as long as I'm producing, that's not the route I'm taking."

"What if your wife can't have any more?"

"What? That would suck but I guess I'd have to."

"Just checking," she smiled, "can you cook?"

"Ok, and to answer your question I'm a boss in the kitchen."

"Is their anything you can't do?"

"Uhh, I cant sew, or drive a stick."

"I can sew enough to put a button back on a blouse ... I can drive a semi," she smiled.

"Good for you.." He smiled.

"Shut up ... Eat your food and let's get to business."

"Business?"

"The Business," she nodded and stuck her hand under the table, grabbing his junk.

He immediately smiled, chuckled even, "now you gonna just use me?"

"Of course not. I would never do such a thing!"

"Yeah yeah yeah, what's your biggest fear?"

"That I'll end up being 40 years old and unmarried with 5 cats or I'll be 40 years old and married to someone I settled for just because I didn't want to be that 40 year old cat lady. I'm too picky so being 40 and alone is a reality I face unless I settle for whatever," she paused, "I don't like being alone."

A faint smile appeared on his face. "The only thing/person I fear is God himself. Everything else is nothing. Dying young, being alone, all that crap that doesnt matter. As long as I'm alive with roof over my head, a full stomach and my guns. I'm good. If i have a lovely woman to accompany me through it all, that would be nice too."

"That would be nice too," she laughed again, "you're a mess, but you're cute."

"Cute? Janine, I'm a grown man, I'm not cute."

"What you said ... Not you. Get off your high horse, Madonna."

He busted out laughing, "i love fuckin with that woman so much." He nodded, "the simple things in life."

Maddox emptied his plate as well, "time for a nap."

"That's right ... Your catnapping," Janine left the kitchen and up to the bedroom.

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS LATER - 11

PART 11

Jeremiah didn't feel as bad as he should have. Yes, Maddox was the brother he never had

but he hadn't seen the woman in 25 years. Maybe he expected to swoop in and pick up where they left off? He'd have to talk to him later to avoid a bunch of bullshit. He simply rubbed the back of his head and looked back at Maddox, "it works."

"Let's all say grace, ok?" Anya, Lucky's wife, broke the silence. "Bow your heads." She proceeded to lead in prayer and after a quiet 'Amen,' the food was passed around.

"so what do you do professionally, anya?" Maddox asked to avoid his true feelings.

“Uhm …” She cleared her throat and smiled, “I design wedding gowns. My shop is in Soho close to Ms. Hines’ art gallery.”

"Fantastic, i have a store in SoHo as well." He smiled.

"Oh? What is it called?"

Dante interrupted, "I play baseball for the New York Yankees. 1st Base," then gave the prettiest smile in the room.

Lucky immediately shot his father a look and then shook his head. “Huh?” Maddox asked confused, “you interrupted us to tell me something I was gonna ask you anyway?”

“Well yea …” He was completely sure of himself.

“Lord …” Janine mumbled, “Dante sweetie … Shut the hell up.”

“Ms. Hi-“ He started.

“Mommy-“ Jiselle tried.

Janine only shook her head, “patience.”

“Yea, Dante, shut the hell up,” Maddox looked back to Anya, “it’s called Ames’. It’s a specialty suit boutique. 1 of 10 around the world.”

“You have everything so together. I admire that. The hard work. I’d be lucky to have even 2 shops but I’m working on it. Using you as inspiration.”

Lucky cleared his throat, “what about me?” He kissed her cheek.

“You too,” she blushed.

“You sly dog, you!” Maddox teased Lucky, “nah, but you’ll get it, Anya. Drive will get you there.”

“Thank you,” she smiled and passed the big plate of catfish to Lucky.

Jeremiah looked at Janine to start a quiet conversation, “you’re eating fried food. Thought that was against a new rule of yours.”

“I wanted it too bad. I’m always good when we’re out together, right? Yes?” She answered for him.

“Hardly,” he joked.

Other conversations ensued when Dante interrupted, “is it my turn yet?” He asked like an eager young boy. Maddox never did ask him what he did because Lucky was right … He hated his guts.

“Hell no, I don’t even care.” He looked to Elle, “no offense baby.” 

“None taken.” Jiselle frowned and sulked but understood.

“I know I’m not your kid, but,” Gigi tapped Maddox on the arm, “is it my turn?”

"Go ahead, hon." Maddox told her.

“Yay! I ran on the Olympic track team and won and individual medal. I’ve also gotten a ton of scholarship offers from schools wanting me to run for them. But I don’t want to move so far away. That’s all!” She took a bite of her corn.

“Nice. Amazing, Gigi!”

“Thanks,” she blushed.

| After Dinner |

The table was being cleared and Jeremiah used the opportunity to get with Maddox. He walked up to him, “a minute?”

“Yea, I guess,” he followed Jerry outside.

They stood on the back  porch. Jeremiah had his arms folded across his chest, “this wasn’t done with the intention of fucking with you,” he turned to him and groped the air for words, then dropped his hands, “I like her.”

“Let me say something to you. FUCK WHO YOU LIKE! You are my brother, the one person who knew exactly how I felt about Janine, and listened to me for hours upon days trying to figure what to do. Just because you and me haven’t kicked it in a couple of years don’t mean you can do this shit. Do you think I would do that shit to you, ever?”

He shook his head, “no, man. And I apologize for it. Honestly.” What the hell else was there to say? Nothing.

“Yea … Right … Some brother you are.” Maddox went back inside the house.

On the inside, Janine saw Maddox walk back in so she went outside to sit with Jerry. The twins caught up with Maddox, “daddy …” Jiselle said quietly.

“Yea?” He sat on a chair and put his head in his hands.

“I’m sorry. I still think we can get rid of him …”

“Jiselle,” Lucky stopped her, “there aint nothing wrong with that dude. Leave mom alone.”

“But this is better for all of us!”

Maddox sighed, “let your mom be happy, Elle. I’m too old to play that kinda game.”

Right after Jeremiah walked back inside and left, Janine went to the twins, “you two … Kitchen … Now.” She walked ahead of them.

Lucky rolled his eyes while Jiselle took a deep breath. They both followed her. Janine had already pulled out a wine bottle and glass, now pouring herself some wine, “I’m gonna ask one time …” Taking a sip of the wine, “and refrain from cursing … What was that about, babies?”

“Mom … No disrespect … But shouldn’t you be talking to the man this is centered around?” Lucky suggested.

“Dad wants to be with you!” Elle blurted out.

“Idiot,” Lucky shook his head.

"No." Narrowing her eyes at Lucky, she put her glass down and walked over to him, "don't you ever ... Again ... In your life," then looked at Elle, "interfere with my personal life. That is mine!" That's when she teared up and looked between the two of them, "you don't get a say in that. I have lived my entire life for the 4 of you. It's my turn, ok? I know what you're thinking because it's logical ..." She paused and backed up when a tear fell, "but you crossed a line. That man in there ... You don't ever!" She stifled a sob, then knocked back the entire glass of wine, then stopped, "go home, babies. Goodnight." She gave them a half assed wave and walked off to the stairs to go to bed.

“See … Told you that was a bad idea,” Lucky shook his head while Jiselle stood feeling beyond bad.

Janine headed towards the stairs but Maddox caught sight of her, “Janine …” He stood up.

Clenching her jaw, she stopped, took some breathes, wiped her face and turned to face him as normal as possible, “thank you for coming to dinner.”

“Thank you … I have something to say though.” He paused, “you never deserved it. Your suspicions were always right. When you felt it, so did I … I fell hard. I guess I’m saying I wish this was different.”

Janine stood there nodding and looking down at her feet as another tear rolled, “so do I. Goodnight.”

Sighing, “goodnight,” he watched her go up the stairs.

“Oh my Godddd!” Gigi literally stomped by them, pointing towards the twins while going upstairs to her mothers room, “you’re ruining my mother!”

Lucky approached Maddox, “well we’re in the dog house.”

“You guys should’ve known better,” he sighed, “good looking out though. I’m heading out, but I’m calling you and your sister about bringing my grandchildren over. Cool?”

Lucky nodded and hugged him, then went to the den to claim his wife and child. Jiselle followed after, crying and holding onto Dante and Carmen. She broke away momentarily to hug her father, then kept on out as everyone left the house.

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS LATER - 10

PART 10

| 8 Months Later |

Maddox's tour was on break. A few days after the fact, the twins were visiting with Janine when Maddox decided to pay them a visit. The twins were well aware, but Janine was not. She went to answer the door barefoot but wearing a strapless print maxi dress. Her short hair was freshly done and she was finally beginning to look like her old self. When she opened it, she tilted her head to the side, "I think you've gotten taller."

"I’ve been 6'4 since college," Maddox smiled and pulled her into a hug, "how you been? You look damn good."

She smiled, "really good actually." Janine rubbed his back, "come on, then," stepping back, she closed the door behind him.

"That's good, where's my offspring?"

"Dining room ... Table duty. Hungry?"

"Very much so ..." He smiled, "what's cooking?" They headed to the dining room.

"Catfish, roasted corn and a few other things. Where do you live now?" She was curious since he basically just popped up.

"Here in new York." They entered as Jiselle jumped up, "baby girl, hey!"

"Hi daddy," she cheesed and walked towards him with her arms out. "Dante is here!"

"Aw shit, he bet not step out of line," he came out of the hug and into one with Lucky," what's up Luck?"

"Shit ..." He responded, then laughed, "I didn't tell her you were coming. Elle told me not to."

"Why is that?" He hugged Gigi next.

"So she wouldn't make any excuses."

"Almost ready!" Gigi smiled and kept arranging things on the table after the hug

"Excuses for? Less abstract, make more sense sweet heart."

"It was a precaution," Jiselle explained, "in case she decided she mysteriously had something to do so she wouldn't see you. She's intent on us having a relationship with you and her staying out the way as much as possible."

He laughed, "gotcha," he said as the doorbell went off.

Janine had forgotten Jeremiah was coming when Maddox showed up. She huffed and went to the door and pulled it open. Jerry walked in immediately, grabbed her around the waist and kissed her. She smiled and even laughed a little bit, "heads up ... Maddox is here."

"What? You're lying."

"No. The twins must have called him over. I should have known something was going on when they showed up WITH Anya and Dante." She sighed and rubbed his arm, "whatever you wanna do ... I'll go with it."

“MOM, IT’S READY!” Gigi yelled.

"Coming!" She yelled back and waited on Jeremiah to answer.

"Elle and Lucky must want you with Maddox."

"Probably. It's only natural. I can't be upset." She paused, "when was the last time you spoke to Maddox?

"Like 2 years ago," he walked further into the house, making his decision.

"I think it'll be ok," Janine nodded and put an arm around his waist, walking with him to the dining room.

Jeremiah rubbed his hand over her head, kissed her temple and strolled in with his other hand in his pocket, "hey chillens ..." He greeted everyone.

"Mothafucka ... No hello for me?" Maddox stood up and walked over to him.

Jeremiah chuckled, "you know you get a hello." They met each other in the middle to greet while Janine shot lasers with her eyes at the twins.

Jiselle cheesed while Lucky hunched his shoulders. "What are you doing over here? I didn't know that you found Janine!"

"Ran into her a few months after she got out of the hospital."

Genevieve cut in, "he asked her out so many times before she said yes. IT WAS SO CUTE!"

Janine laughed, "It was only twice. The only reason I kept saying no was because of my insecurities. Once I got passed them ... It's been great ever since," she shrugged and sat down, then Jeremiah took the seat next to her.

Maddox just stared at them. It got real awkward as he shoot daggers through them, "is that so?" He smirked and them chuckled, face a faint beet red, "some miracle, my brother and my kids mother... Together. Its about time you found each other," Maddox said sarcastic. He was crushed.

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS LATER - 9

PART 9

"Really?" They asked in unison and looked at him at the same time.

"Mom is single." Jiselle reminded him. "Probably not looking ..."

"She could be." Lucky challenged her.

"She's probably tired, Luck."

"But later ..." Lucky went on and the bickering started again.

"Your mom doesn't want me. I wouldn't want me. She's doing better without me in her life." Maddox had convinced himself.

"Better? Being married was hell for her. She won't admit it to us," Lucky told him.

"It's true," Jiselle tapped her chin, "and if you really think about things ... Antonio was the rebound guy. A rebound thing NEVER works out."

"yea, well if something ever happens it does and of it doesn't, it is what it is."

Jiselle sighed overly loud, then plopped a hand on his shoulder, "wrong attitude to have, daddy!" Then took a sip of her drink with her free hand.

He laughed, "it'll have to be after this tour. This is going on for a year and a half."

"What a bunch of crap!" She huffed.

"uh... Excuse me?" He was surprised by Jiselle.

"I'm talking about right now! A grand romantic gesture like Dante did for me," she smiled.

Lucky almost spit out his drink, "which one? He proposed 3 times before you said yes."

"Oh shut up."

"You need to relax, Elle... You're mom made it very clear to me that she couldn't be with a man as busy as me."

"As long as you love her, then ..."

"Elle ..." Lucky stopped her, "let it go.

“I don’t know … We’ll see.”

"This is why men don't get the woman they want. They give up too easily. Mommy told me that if i'm really worth it to him, he won't give up ... Dante didn't."

"who said i was giving up? What you have to understand is that, i want to give your mom everything she wants and needs, not just the grand gesture, but me being there as much as I possibly can. I want to be her everything."

Jiselle gasped and tears formed in her eyes, "oh my God ..."

"Here we go," Lucky looked at her as she started to sniffle.

"oh my good what?"

"It's so beautiful! You still love her ..."

He shook his head, "you are definitely your mothers Child."

"I've had to deal with this my whole life," Lucky sighed.

"that is insane.." They continue to go through the rest of the pictures.

| Months Later |

Genevieve received a bronze medal in the 400 meters at the Olympics. Pretty good for a first timer and only 16 years old. Janine was more than thankful she was there to see it. She arrived in London only a day before Gigi was set to race. She got to see her semifinal heats and the final and cheered as loud as any mother could despite obviously not being well enough to be there yet. Once back home, she took the necessary rest ... Or as much as she could with Gigi asking her if she was alright. The girl had a heart of gold and nothing would change that. The rest of the family had gone back to their lives while keeping a watch and Janine went back to painting. Normalcy felt good. 

Cold as hell out but still a pretty day, Janine left the house in search of lunch. She took a window seat at a Puerto Rican restaurant and looked at the menu. Every now and then she'd glance at her reflection in the window. Her short hair was still a bother to her and she never knew what to do with it so she kept it straight to frame her head. The bangs were a little long in the front with a slight ducktail in the back gave it some shape. The family thought it looked nice but they always thought she looked nice. They couldn't be trusted with this.

No sooner than she could look back down at the menu, someone touched her back, then stopped in front of her, "I knew it was you!"

“Jerry?!” Janine stood and smiled, “no way …”

“I heard you had cancer …” He hugged her, then sat down in the empty seat in front of her.

“I did. Beat it … Don’t know how but I did. Had to have a double lung transplant.”

“Wow! I’m glad to see you came through,” he smiled. “How is the basketball team?”

“Good. Still hovering like I’m dying but really good. How are you? Where have you been?”

“I mostly live in Vegas. I own a couple of cabarets and a casino.”

“Cabaret’s?” Janine lifted an eyebrow and smirked.

Jeremiah laughed, “yea … Yea … But I’m in NY a lot. I have a place here.”

“Can’t believe I hadn't run into you before now.”

“Yea …” Jeremiah just stared at her and smiled, “me either.” Jeremiah realized that they were both in their 40’s and single. Maddox was like a brother to him but it had been 25 years since all the mess in high school happened. So would he care if tried to get close to Janine? At that moment, he didn't care. He watched Janine and listened to her as she went over a few details about her art work, kids and future plans for herself, then cut in, “before I forget … Give me your number. I want to see the troop.”

“Oh sure!” Janine dug her phone out and handed it to him.

Jeremiah worked with it, then handed it back. The waiter approached to take their orders and Jeremiah enjoyed Janine’s company … Planning their next encounter that he would hope would be a date.

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS LATER - 8

PART 8

Maddox handed her and lucky their drinks and them went to grab the pictures. Once he grabbed them, he returned and took a seat. Pulling out half the stack, it was a picture of him with his arms around Janine at the airport, and then the next was him planting a wet kiss on her as she made a face, "i look twelve," he chuckled, "your mom looks damn good."

"Yea, mom will forever be gorge." She chuckled at the pictures.

"Who are all these people? Your friends?" Lucky asked about a Christmas group shot. "I see Antonio and uncle KT. Uncle KT had a daughter with ..." He looked closely at the picture, then pointed to Deanna, "her ... Can't remember her name."

"that's Deanna, she was a ho. I dated her," he pointed to Kandi, "before your mom, but she was a ho as well. Your mom was as pure as they came and i got lucky. She dated Dominic before me," he pointed to dom and then pointed to lyric, this was my female best friend and then he was my brother, as down as they came and would never double Cross me EVER," he pointed to Jeremiah.

"I couldn't imagine doing all the stuff you guys did at that age. I missed curfew when i was 17 and i thought i was gonna die. I was so scared to walk in the door." Jiselle shook her head, "mommy emphasized that you two were too grown for your ages ... Or tried to be."

"The name Lyric sounds familiar but we haven't meet anyone ... Then again, mom never brought up friends from her past." Lucky flipped the page.

"lyric was her best friend too. We were too grown for our age, but my dad didn't care as long as i stayed protected and didn't get him involved to where he had to whoop somebody's ass over me. My mom stayed in Memphis, which I'm gonna call her in a little so you two can talk to her. She's excited about you guys. Now this is when we were on the balcony, your mom and i were clearly too into each other. She has a smile that kills man..." He smiled at the memory.

"That is so Gigi ..."Jiselle looked at the pictures, "looks so much like mom here."

"I always knew we looked a lot like you because she never wanted to answer ..." Lucky started, "we'd ask about looks and she'd say 'biological father.'"

"Yes, its like looking in a mirror. Hey can i take a picture of us to have put on my website?"

They both nodded, then jiselle asked, "how will your fans take having kids and grands?"

"Who knows and who cares, you guys are mine and I'm proud." He flipped through the second stack which was mainly Janine.

"These are all ..." Lucky went through half the stack and looked at the pictures his sister was holding, "of mom. You took all these?"

"yea, told you i was a kid in love."

"Well had you not been a dumb ass ... The possibilities ..." Lucky said as jiselle looked at him with wide eyes.

Maddox's face became visibly red, "right, I'll give you a pass because i understand the situation. I wasnt very smart but its been 25 years, and i won't make a mistake like that again."

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS - 7

PART 7

| Later – Maddox’s |

They ate and talked and met with the family, then headed back to Maddox where they settled the kids in for the night, then went downstairs to have TV and talk time with Maddox. "Good time to clear the air?" Elle asked.

"Yes," Maddox responded what do you want too know from me. I'll answer everything."

"uh ..." She looked at lucky.

"why didn't you try more than once to contact mom? Or even us later?" Lucky asked.

"i honestly didn't know if your mom wanted me around. I left because Antonio and your uncle kt almost killed me. That was enough to kill anyones ego. I understand the last few words i said to your mother sounded harsher than i intended. I was SO in love with your mom and at that age the things i was best at were sweet talking girls, sleeping with them, earning their trust and then dogging them," he paused "I've had two loves in my life, your mom and my ex wife. So after I said goodbye and told her to contact my father about financial and travel arrangements and she never followed through, I knew i lost her and i was positive she aborted you guys. I tried contacting her twice because i couldn't stop thinking about her, and each time, i punked out. I spent ten years in a relationship which ended in divorce because she cheated on me. Karma is a Bitch."

"It would have been nice is all," jiselle told him, "to have our real dad there ... Not even all the time but to know you could have at least been reached. But," she shrugged, "things happen for a reason."

Lucky agreed, "things would have been different. I'm not knockin how we came up with Antonio but the vibe could have been so much better."

He nodded "i don't doubt it. I could've tried harder. Your mom was a lot stronger than i was. But with not having a single hand in you guys' up bringing, its crazy how much you're like me. I saved money like crazy and before i started doing music, i was a business man, i still have all control over my international night club chain. Also, I’m no stranger to a piano, i know that thing like the back of my hand and I'm all self taught. I'm bummed i wasn't there but so fucking happy I've got you guys in my life now. ."

Jiselle grinned, "really? I play by ear and I have perfect pitch."

"She got the talent," lucky laughed, "and i got the business sense. With the money you gave me, i have so many ideas of what i want to do with it."

"that's damn good baby..." He smiled at Jiselle, and then looked to lucky, "we'll have Talk business sometime."

He nodded, "when you're back in NY, you have to meet my wife."

"And oh my God," jiselle smiled, "Dante. You're gonna love him."

"I would love to," he stood, "lets hug it out..." He chuckled.

They stood and hugged, then lucky whispered to Maddox, "you're gonna hate Dante."

Maddox died laughing as Jiselle reached around and hit lucky, "why?" They pulled out the hug.

"Lucky NEVER liked Dante. Said he was too cocky."

"He is! Nigga act like he own everywhere he go. Autograph and shit ... Stupid ass press smile."

Jiselle rolled her eyes, "he plays baseball."

Maddox laughed, "I'll keep an open mind but fact is no one soul ever be good enough for you, PERIOD."

"Exactly!" Lucky smacked her on the forehead.

"Pinhead!" She swing at him and missed. No matter what the age, they'd bicker and swing just like they'd had their entire life

"Alright alright, enough... You guys tired or want anything to drink?"

"I would love some alcohol," jiselle batted her eyes

"I'll take whatever."

"what do you drink, Elle?" He made to Hennessey on the rocks for him and lucky.

"Um ... Cherry vodka sour. I'm a lightweight."

"She can only have 3. Watered down ... After that, she's down." Lucky followed him to the bar.

Maddox laughed, "you guys wasn't to see some pictures?"

“Of who?” The twins asked in unison.

"your mother and I, when we went to Mexico for winter break."

"ooooo let's see!" Jiselle made herself comfortable.

WHAT IF - 25 YEARS LATER - 6

 PART 6 

| Italy |

On schedule, the twins and their children arrived in Italy. Maddox stood waiting for them by the baggage claim and waved as they approached. "hey!" He Maddox smiled and walked towards them, "how was the flight?" He went in to hug Jiselle first.

"With a Spanish speaking 2 year old? The worst." She laughed and hugged him.

"hola nanita, que pasa?" He looked at the little girl.

"Bueno," she responded.

"Hey, pop," Lucky greeted him.

"I get the royal treatment? I'm Pop already? Love it." He hugged lucky and then kissed the baby, "whats happenin Lil man?" he spoke to his grand son.

The 3 month old went on to munch his fist while Lucky chuckled, "being open."

"i like that..." Maddox smiled and took Jiselle's bag from her and began to guide them to his car. They were meet by a few men that took all their bags, "you guys hungry?"

Starving," jiselle told him.

"good your ya ya has cooked you guys a healthy sized Italian meal. We'll go home to drop off your bags." he noticed Lucky's sneakers, "damn jump start on the new j's?"

"Collector," he smiled, "my wife wants to kill me. I buy them for her but it's not her style. I have to make her wear them ... Anyway, moms friend designs for Nike so i get the new stuff," he grinned.

"I have mine at the house right now. Love my sneakers..."he paused, "how's your mother?" He spoke to the twins.

"She's ok. Still moving a little slow but she's happy," jiselle smiled, "Lucky put a maid in the house. She threw a fit but it's for the best."

"Did she makes plans to use the trip i gave her?"

She shook her head, "doesn't feel up to it yet ..."

"I really think this is all about her hair," lucky told him

He sighed, "I'll have to give her a 'do you know how beautiful you are' talk real soon."

"Good luck. She didn't believe us so she won't believe you."

"i have my ways, trust me."

| Later |

Finally they got to his house, dropped off the luggage, and then got to his ya ya's house. Maddox pushed the door open after unlocking it, "ya ya! Dad, were here!"

Lucky adjusted his baby while jiselle put hers down to walk asking side her. Maddoxs big ass father stepped up first and Jiselle quickly grabbed up her kid, she didn't know these niggas.

Doc looked at the kids, inspected them, he was hard, and suddenly smiled, "I'm your grandfather. Doc ... Your name?" He spoke to Jiselle first.

"Jiselle Amaya Esposito." Then looked at her daughter, "and this is Carmen Vittoria Esposito. She's almost 2."

Doc kissed Jiselle on the forehead and then kissed Carmen on her little cheek, "very beautiful..." He then looked at lucky, "now this is what an Ames man is supposed to look like," he looked to Maddox, "you could learn from him," Maddox laughed at his father.

Lucky cleared his throat and deepened his voice, "like the sound of that ..." Then laughed, "Addison Lucas Hines ... And this 3 month old is Lucas Brandon Hines."

Doc rubbed the Baby's head gently, "you kids have to be hungry, the rest of your family its waiting."