The Last Chance

Lee

Prologue

Tonight was a night most people dreamed of but never got to experience. For twenty-seven-year-old Keilah Chance, it was just another day on the job. She was serving as the personal security agent for the daughter of one of Washington’s most affluent families. Arhmelia Randolph, the seventeen-year-old daughter of Supreme Court Justice Malcolm Randolph and his wife Teresa, was attending the Sweet Sixteen party of the daughter of a hip-hop mogul, and her safety was of the utmost concern.

Keilah arrived with her client, to screaming fans outside D.C.’s Renaissance Hotel, in her silver Jaguar. Once she put the car in park and stepped out, the valet quickly took the keys out of her hands. Keilah walked around the vehicle and opened the door for her young client. When Arhmelia stepped out onto the red carpet, she waved happily to a sea of screaming teens. Dressed in a designer outfit by G-Unit, she looked much older than her seventeen years.

As they walked the red carpet toward the entrance to the hotel, Keilah kept a sharp eye on the crowd, especially the young men who fought to get a view of her clients as well as the who’s whos in music and movies, who were also arriving.

Keilah’s main focus was to blend into the crowd, so she dressed accordingly and didn’t look a day over twenty in her outfit. Her hair fell midway down her back in spiral curls, and her makeup was flawless.

After ushering Arhmelia into the ballroom, Keilah took note of the elaborate decorations and huge, five-tier birthday cake. There was a table full of a variety of food and drinks for the teenagers with the music being provided by a famous DJ out of New York City. The crowd of nearly two hundred people danced to the up-tempo beat being played. Keilah made sure Arhmelia always stayed within a few feet of her, which meant she had to spend half the night on the dance floor. However, Keilah had no problem finding a dance partner.

The party was going to last until one

A.M.

, so Keilah made it a point to escort her young client out of the crowd several minutes prior to that. Outside, they waited for the valet to bring the car around. As they lingered, Arhmelia struck up a conversation with a young man who exited the hotel around the same time they did. He was also the same young man who’d kept asking Arhmelia to dance at the party.

As the couple held a conversation, Keilah made it a point to stand between them, and even though it invaded Arhmelia’s privacy, it also kept her safe. Keilah needed to make sure the young man not only kept his distance from Arhmelia but that he didn’t say anything threatening to her either. Arhmelia rolled her eyes and looked over at Keilah.

Come on, Keilah. Can you give us a little privacy?

Keilah gave Arhmelia a look to let her know it wasn’t happening. She also kept a sharp eye on their surroundings as they stood outside in the open, waiting for their car. Just as the valet drove up with the car, Keilah saw the young man pull out his cell phone and ask for Arhmelia’s telephone number. Arhmelia was about to recite her number to him when Keilah stopped her and then made her get inside the car.

I’m sorry, but she’s not allowed to give out her number to strangers. If you give me your number, I will see if she would like to call you later.

The young man looked at Keilah as if he was sizing her up, and then he cursed loudly at her. About that time, a group of people exited the hotel and walked in their direction.

A handsome man dressed in a designer suit and expensive jewelry walked over and said, Keilah Chance! What a nice surprise.

Keilah smiled at the gentleman and said, Hello Quentin.

As the gentleman walked closer, he looked at the young man and frowned. I thought you said you were leaving?

Keilah pointed at the young man and asked, You know this kid, Quentin?

He sighed and said, Yeah, he’s mine. Boy, I know you didn’t disrespect this lady! What did he do?

Keilah folded her arms and said, This can’t be Malik.

Unfortunately, it is, Keilah.

I haven’t seen him in years. I had no idea, she replied.

Quentin shook his head and asked, What did he do?

With a raised brow she said, Ask him.

Quentin turned towards the young man and slapped him hard on the back of the head. I don’t have to ask him, Keilah. I know you, and you wouldn’t be upset if he didn’t do something stupid. Look, I’m so sorry about this. If there’s anything I can do to make this right, I will. You know we go way back, and I don’t want this to hurt our relationship.

Malik made an irritated gesture and rolled his eyes. Quentin slapped him again and said, Boy, you’re in over your head! Don’t you realize who you’re messing with? This is Keilah that used to protect your mother. Now apologize to her like you got some damn sense, the man said.

Malik rolled his eyes again before mumbling an apology to Keilah. The flashily dressed gentleman smacked the young man on the back of the head again and yelled at him.

I said apologize to her, and do it right!

This time Malik apologized to Keilah as instructed before walking off down the sidewalk with his friends. Keilah and Quentin watched as the trio walked down the street. While Quentin’s back was turned Keilah watched as Malik turned and pointed his finger at her as if it were a gun and simulated pulling the trigger. After they were gone, Quentin, known to the hip-hop world as Diamond, smiled at Keilah and extended his hand. Keilah smiled and shook his hand.

I’m sorry about all of this, Keilah. I’m still working on the boy. He’s still stuck in the streets.

I really didn’t know he was yours, Quentin. My client was all starry-eyed over him, so I figured he had to be somebody.

Well you wasn’t around Malik that much since he didn’t go on the road with us, so you didn’t see him that often. Quentin pulled Keilah to the side. Are we still good?

Keilah played with the large gold necklace around Quentin’s neck, and then patted him on the chest. We’re good. Get Malik under control, Quentin, before he gets himself in a lot of trouble.

Quentin turned and walked toward his entourage. He looked back at her seriously. I’m working on it, Keilah. You have a good night, and I’ll be in touch.

Keilah opened her car door and said, Have a great night, Quentin, and give my regards to your wife.

I will, he answered.

Keilah got behind the wheel of her car and hurriedly buckled her seat belt.

Arhmelia looked over at Keilah and asked, Do you know who you were talking to? That was Diamond, the singer.

Keilah adjusted her rearview mirror and looked over at the young woman.

Yes, I know who he is. I’ve known Quentin Rivers for a couple of years. I used to work for him, but I didn’t realize that was his knucklehead son acting a fool.

I can’t believe you used to work for Diamond.

Well, actually I worked for him to protect his wife, Keilah revealed.

Wow, that had to have been exciting, Keilah.

She looked over and Arhmelia and said, It had its moments, but Quentin really needs to get control of his son before the kid gets into a lot of trouble.

Didn’t you see how cute Malik was?

They’re all cute at that age, and dangerous, Arhmelia. And another thing: You don’t give your number out to strangers. I don’t care who they are. If they’re interested in you, they’ll be happy to give you their number just as well. You young women are too careless these days, and you put yourselves at risk when you act like that.

Arhmelia buckled her seat belt. But that was Diamond’s son. He’s so famous.

Keilah pulled out into traffic and headed out of the city. I don’t care about that. What I do care about is getting you home safe and sound, Arhmelia.

Arhmelia fumbled with the radio without responding as Keilah kept an eye on traffic.

So, did you have a good time?

Yeah, it was cool. I saw you dancing your butt off.

Keilah giggled.

I had to in order to keep up with you. Thanks to you my feet are killing me.

Keilah chuckled as she adjusted her rear view mirror.

I have to give it to you, Keilah. You can dance. I like hanging out with you even though you cramped my style tonight.

That’s my job, sweetheart.

About that time, a dark-colored SUV pulled up on the passenger side of Keilah’s Jaguar. She looked over and watched as the window lowered and the barrel of a gun pointed directly at them.

Get down, Keilah shouted as she pushed the young woman’s head down in the car. She swerved away from the vehicle.

Shots rang out. Arhmelia screamed. Hold on, Arhmelia! Keilah yelled as she fought to maintain control of her car.

Keilah could hear the bullets as they hit her car, shattering the back window. She reached inside her jacket pocket, pulled out her gun, and started shooting back at the assailants as they once again pulled up beside her car. Arhmelia continued to cry and scream as Keilah exchanged gunfire with the occupants in the vehicle.

Meanwhile, in Dennison, California, Luke Chance was in the process of ending his night. He finished up signing some paperwork that his assistant had put on his desk earlier in the day. After working a ten-hour day, he was anxious to get home to his wife and children. Just as he stood to turn off his computer, a sharp pain shot through his head. He grimaced and sat back down in his chair. As he closed his eyes and rubbed his temple, a vision of Keilah flashed in his mind. He opened the top drawer of his desk and pulled out a bottle of Zomig, a medicine prescribed to him by his doctor for his sudden migraines. For some reason, he seemed to always get severe headaches when something was going on with Keilah. It started when she was thirteen and first got her period. Ever since then, he’d been able to channel all her stress and anxiety, no matter where she was or how hard she tried to hide it.

Luke was Keilah’s oldest brother. At forty-six years old, Luke had all the answers and was the father figure to his family. Being mild mannered and extremely understanding were his best traits. He was also an attractive man with physical characteristics that could easily qualify him as a male model. He wore his hair closely cropped, had a thin mustache over his upper lip, and had long, sexy eyelashes.

After popping the tablets into his mouth he drained the bottled water that was sitting on his desk. He looked at his watch and then at their family portrait on the wall. It was one o’clock in the morning in D.C., and even though his head was still throbbing, he had a strong urge to call her. He pulled out his cell phone and dialed her number. Four rings later, it went to her voice mail.

Hey, Keilah, it’s Luke. I know it’s late, but I was sitting here thinking about you. I’m on my way home from the casino, but give me a call. I don’t care what time it is. I love you.

After hanging up, he leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. Luke was anxious for his migraine to subside and for Keilah to return his telephone call. He just prayed that whatever she was mixed up in, she was OK.

Back in D.C., Keilah’s vehicle did a 360 and then faced the SUV as it approached them on I-395. Keilah opened her car door and pulled out a second gun. She unleashed a series of gunshots directly into the front window of the truck, causing it to crash into a lamppost. Keilah could see smoke rising from under the hood of the SUV, but there was no movement inside it. She wasn’t sure if she’d hit anyone and had to be ready in case the occupants rushed her. As she kept her guns aimed on her assailants, she glanced into her car and yelled, Arhmelia, are you hurt?

The young woman screamed and cried without answering. Keilah frantically felt around on Arhmelia’s body and yelled again. Are you hit?

Arhmelia leaned against Keilah and sobbed. No. I want to go home. I want my momma and daddy.

Keilah looked back over at the SUV and in a panic yelled, Hold on, Arhmelia. I have to call the police, and as soon as they get here, I’m going to take you home. OK?

She kept her gun aimed at the SUV as she grabbed Arhmelia by her jacket and pulled her out of the driver’s side door. She made Arhmelia squat down behind the Jaguar for protection in case the occupants of the car started shooting again. Arhmelia whimpered as Keilah spoke to the police over the phone. Within seconds, several cars arrived with lights and sirens blazing.

Keilah could now relax. Arhmelia, on the other hand, was still visibly shaken. While officers questioned Keilah and checked her identification, she noticed a familiar officer walking in her direction. Other police officers pulled Arhmelia to the side so they could question her. Once they found out who her parents were, they quickly pushed the media back to protect her identity.

I see you’re still at it, Keilah, Officer Jackson said as he laughed.

Don’t start with me, Jackson. I’ve had a long night. Did I hit any of them?

He pointed to an awaiting car and motioned for her to follow him. No, you didn’t, which means you must be losing your touch. I do need you to come see if you can identify any of them.

Keilah looked into the backseat of the car where three young black men sat in handcuffs. Immediately she recognized one of the men as Diamond’s son. She pointed at him and said, "The one in the middle was talking to my client outside the Renaissance Hotel as we were leaving that party.

He was trying to get her telephone number, but I stopped him. The way he looked at me let me know he didn’t like it. After that I found out he was Quentin Brown’s kid."

Why doesn’t that surprise me? I heard Quentin’s been trying to straighten him out. Officer Jackson gave Keilah back her gun and identification. Well, it’s not going to be easy for Quentin to get his kid out of this mess.

He was at the Renaissance, too. He made his son apologize, but it was obvious he didn’t like his old man calling him out in front of everyone.

Keilah, you were lucky tonight. Maybe you should think about a career change.

She fingered her hair before putting her hands on her hips.

You sound like my brothers. I’m going to tell you like I tell them. Don’t hold your breath. I like my job, and I’m good at it, so don’t expect me to give it up anytime soon.

Jackson looked over at the three young men and laughed. All right. Next time you might not be so lucky.

No, they’re the ones who might not be so lucky, she yelled as she pointed to the patrol car. So can I take Arhmelia home now? I’ve already contacted her parents so they wouldn’t be worried.

You’d better let us take her. We’re going to have to tow your car in as evidence. You’re welcome to come along for the ride.

Come on, Jackson, she pouted.

He threw his hands up in defense. You know it’s procedure, Keilah, so don’t even go there.

She folded her arms and sighed. What a night. I can’t believe those young thugs tried to take me out over a phone number.

Officer Jackson touched Keilah’s arm tenderly and said, It was about respect, Keilah. They couldn’t care less about the telephone number, but he could’ve been trying to get close enough for something more sinister. You probably saved that little girl’s life tonight, and that’s a fact.

She blushed and said, I was just doing my job.

I joke with you about it, but you really are good at what you do. I know you’re making a lot of money, so when I retire, don’t forget about me.

By the time you retire, Jackson, my kids will be running my company.

He opened the car door for her and laughed. Come on so I can get Arhmelia out of here before the media has a field day with this one.

Keilah got inside the car beside Arhmelia and put her arm around her shoulder to comfort her.

Chapter One

Keilah twirled around in her chair and looked out over the skyline. It had been two days since the shooting, and she welcomed the tranquility of her corner office, which was housed in a twenty-story building on the outskirts of the nation’s capital. She was co-owner of one of the most successful private security agencies in D.C., and at five feet eight, she was not only beautiful, she was highly educated, tough, and an expert in martial arts, which aided in her success as a highly skilled marksman.

Her career was totally against the life her brothers had planned for her, but this was her life and she was going to live the way she wanted. She’d been protected by her brothers all of her life, now it was her turn to do the same for others. Her brothers meant well, but they could be extremely overbearing at times.

Keilah owned the Stone Chance Protection Agency with an ex-military police officer, Ramsey Stone. They had been introduced through mutual friends, and they hit it off immediately. Keilah and Ramsey always felt it was fate that brought them together because, oddly, they’d had the same vision for a business and their business plans were basically identical. Keilah and Ramsey had a lot in common, and they felt like they had known each other for years, even though only six years had passed. While Ramsey was rugged and personable, he was also very handsome and had a physique like an African warrior. People often mistook him for formerwrestler–turned-actor, the Rock, and as far as beautiful women, he was a magnet and loved every minute of it.

Their company was a huge success and they employed twenty to twenty-five former military officers, Special Forces, and police officers. They were blessed to have been involved in only a few incidents, which caused them to fine-tune their skills even more. They honestly believed their match was made in heaven, and Keilah and Ramsey knew they could trust each other no matter what.

While Keilah was still staring out the window, Ramsey casually walked into her office, sat down and straightened his tie. Well, well, well. I heard somebody had a busy weekend.

Keilah looked at him and frowned. Who told you? Jackson?

Ramsey started laughing. Who else? I saw him downtown yesterday. He told me you had a run-in with Diamond’s kid and some of his partners.

Keilah picked up a folder and handed it to him. I just finished the report. Here’s your copy. It was wild, Ramsey.

I bet it was, he responded.

Ramsey scanned Keilah’s report as she gave him the play-by-play of what happened.

Keilah got up and walked around her desk to the bookshelf so she could replace a book. She looked very professional in her black suit. The jacket was about the same length as her skirt, which showcased her magnificent legs. Her hair was still long and curly, and it complemented her facial features.

I could tell he had a lot of attitude, but I didn’t expect him to take a shot at me.

Ramsey closed the folder and added, Well, I’m not surprised. I’ve heard a lot about that kid trying to make a name for himself on the streets.

Keilah turned to Ramsey. Well I’m not the one.

He chuckled and said, You don’t have to tell me. By the way, call Luke. He’s worried about you.

Dang! I forgot to call him back. When did you talk to him? she asked.

Ramsey popped a mint into his mouth and said, Yesterday.

She picked a piece of lint off her skirt. You didn’t tell him about this weekend, did you?

No, but he’s not happy with you right now. He said you’re terrible with returning phone calls.

Keilah sighed and stared down at her Jimmy Choo pumps, and so did Ramsey. Nice shoes.

She smiled and said, Thank you.

Call your brother, Keilah. I told him I would give you the message.

I will. I’m sorry he called you.

He winked at her and said, No bother. We had a nice talk.

Ramsey was about six foot four and sinfully handsome. His erect posture and polite nature radiated a military background, and he was a valued asset to their company’s success. Their friendship was unbreakable, and at thirty years old, he was still single, dating heavily, but a serious relationship was the last thing on his list. It wasn’t hard for him to attract women with his winning smile and cinnamon skin. The diamond stud in his ear gleamed just as brightly as his smile, and his short wavy hair and dimples had women constantly swooning. It didn’t hurt that he could rock a business suit like a model, and the navy suit he had on radiated confidence.

Ramsey opened the folder again and looked at the report. Have you found out when the hearing is going to be for Diamond’s son?

I’m going to call today. That kid almost made me put him in the morgue. Quentin told me he was working on getting his son’s attitude in check, and I’m sure it’s going to be hard for him to get him out of this mess.

Ramsey tucked the folder under his arm. You’re right. It might be too little, too late, and he messed with the wrong two women this time. I’m sure Arhmelia’s dad is going to push this to the full extent of the law.

Oh, no doubt, Ramsey.

Keilah walked back over to her desk and opened a drawer. She pulled out the newspaper and held it out to him. We made the paper. I’m just glad our names were kept out of it, but I’m sure the entertainment magazines will have a field day with it once they find out how Quentin is connected.

Ramsey frowned as he read the article. He laid the newspaper on Keilah’s desk. Well, I’m glad you and Arhmelia weren’t injured. That’s what’s important.

You’re right, Ramsey.

He walked toward the door but stopped and turned around. By the way, you look beautiful today. I also like the way you’re wearing your hair.

She blushed. Thanks, Ramsey.

He looked at his watch and smiled. Don’t forget the planning meeting at ten o’clock in the conference room, and I have a spot reserved for us to do some target shooting this evening at six o’clock if you’re up for it.

Sounds good. See you at the meeting, she replied as she typed on her computer.

Call Luke, he reminded her before closing the door behind him.

As soon as Ramsey left the room, Keilah picked up her telephone and returned Luke’s call.

At the ten o’clock meeting, Ramsey and Keilah went over the events of the weekend as well as upcoming assignments. The meeting lasted for about two hours and once it was over, lunch was served. A nearby restaurant catered the lunch, which included avocado egg rolls, sirloin salad, quesadillas, calamari, and buffalo wings.

Keilah didn’t eat nearly as much as everyone else so she finished lunch first. Before heading back to her office, she walked over to Ramsey who was refilling his plate. Ramsey, when you finish lunch stop by my office. I want to talk to you about something.

Ramsey stacked a couple of buffalo wings and some calamari on his plate and then smiled. Okay. I’ll see you shortly.

Shortly for Ramsey was another thirty minutes, but he finally made it to Keilah’s office. He loosened his necktie as he walked in. What’s up, Keilah?

She looked up and saw him fumbling with his tie. You look full.

He sat down then grabbed his stomach. I overdid it as usual.

She printed out some reports and laughed. I’m sure you’ll work it off in the gym.

Ramsey could tell she was hesitating, but knowing her like he did, he knew she wouldn’t hesitate long. He picked out a piece of peppermint candy from the dish on her desk and stared at her. So, why are you looking like the cat who ate the canary? What’s going on? What do you want to talk to me about?

She finally looked at him. I need a favor, and I know it’s going to feel like it’s coming out of left field but hear me out.

Sure, what is it? he replied.

Well, you know me and Trent broke up about four months ago, and since then, I just haven’t been lucky enough to meet anyone else, she explained.

Ramsey curiously listened to her. Keilah had become somewhat of a workaholic since her relationship with Howard University Professor, Trenton Daniels soured. Trenton was a decent guy. He just couldn’t handle Keilah being a bodyguard. Trent and Keilah dated heavily for about ten months after meeting in Union Station one Saturday afternoon. After several efforts to make their relationship work, they decided it was best they parted ways.

Ramsey sat up in his chair and said, Keilah, sadly it’s going to take a real man to be able to deal with this line of work. The crazy thing is that women I meet find it exciting when I tell them what I do, but for some reason, men are intimidated when they find out about you and the other women in this business. Don’t worry about it though. You’ll find the right guy.

I hope you’re right, Ramsey, but in the meantime, I still need a favor, she reminded him.

Okay, what is this favor? You know I’ll do anything for you.

Keilah hesitated again. Before you agree, you need to hear me out.

He laughed and said, All right.

Ramsey, I know you have a lot of lady friends you see on a regular basis, and I don’t want to cause a problem with your routine, but I was wondering if you would put me on your list until I can get out of this rut.

Ramsey was in a state of shock. He stared at her as he sat frozen in his seat.

There was no way she could be asking him what he thought she was asking. Or could she? He cleared his throat. Excuse me?

"Look Ramsey, I’m just going to say it. We’re both adults and should be able to handle this temporary arrangement with some