Total pages in book: 112
Estimated words: 112567 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 563(@200wpm)___ 450(@250wpm)___ 375(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 112567 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 563(@200wpm)___ 450(@250wpm)___ 375(@300wpm)
“What do you mean?”
“Bank’s eyes popped out and all that. He was so surprised I was getting out of the monk’s car. Then, he started screaming for me to get away from Yong.”
“Yong?”
“That was the monk’s name. Yong.”
“So, then you get away from Yong and then what happens, Jo?”
“I don’t know because Banks rushed me into the house like I was a little kid. Either way, minutes later he was back in the house barreling me with questions, and I told him about Leo.”
“Okay.” I shrugged. “Did it seem like Banks knew Leo?”
“Shit. For some reason, when I said Leo’s name, Banks looked like he pissed his pants.”
“Oh.”
So, Banks knows Leo. Well yeah. . .he knows Lei.
Jo continued, “Then, I showed Banks the grand. He was telling me I had to give it back and I’m like fuck that shit. We need that to eat.”
My head pounded some more. “Stay in Paradise. I will be there to grab you all in seven to eight days and then—”
“Eight days!”
“Jo, it’s all types of weird shit I am into right now, but I am fine. I’m just helping a friend who helped me with the Dutch and Snow shit.”
“So, this Chinese guy?”
“Yeah. Something like that. And you can keep the grand because I have more money—”
“You’re not hoeing or anything? Right?”
“What? No.”
“I’m just saying, Moni. You’re going to be gone for a week. What’s that about?”
“I’m helping a friend.”
Jo’s voice lowered. “If you need a break, I get it. But, if it is some really crazy shit that you are doing for us, I want you to stop.”
“It’s not a break. It’s a task. A mission. And I’m fine.”
“You better be. What about school for Chloe and TT?”
“Well. . .” I rubbed my forehead. “We are actually going to move and put them in another school.”
“We’re going to do what?”
“Yeah. We’re done with Glory.”
“Chloe is going to be pissed.” Jo chuckled. “Please let me be in the room when you tell her.”
I frowned. “Do you like Paradise so far?”
“Hells yes. Anything is better than dusty ass small Glory.”
“Stop cursing.”
Jo groaned. “Either way, I’m digging Paradise. There are tons of comic bookstore jobs here, so I could have something quick.”
“Good because we have a. . .house.”
I think.
Jo shrieked. “A what?”
“You heard me.”
“Moni?”
“What?”
She whispered, “You’re really not hoeing?”
My frown deepened.
“I mean. . .if you can hoe to get a house, Moni, I’m not mad or anything. I just want you to be careful.”
“I’m not hoeing, and again, I am fine.” I sighed. “Is Banks there?”
“Oh yeah.” Jo sounded nervous. “I should have said this part.”
“What part?”
“Last night, Banks left with Marcy and some others to go to Glory to find you. They haven’t returned yet.”
“Shit.”
Chapter twenty-five
A Thoughtful Message
Moni
I was about to call my cousin Banks, but someone knocked on the door.
I went over to open it.
Aunt Suzi’s assistants greeted me, then explained that they had packed my new clothes in suitcases and loaded them in the cars. Apparently, my belongings would be on Mount Utopia once I arrived.
Next, the assistant showed me an outfit that Aunt Suzi believed would be perfect for my trip to Mount Utopia.
I assessed the clothes. The top was a silk-cashmere blend pullover in a shade of sky blue. She added a pair of high-performance navy-blue leggings, while Cobalt blue hiking boots finished the look.
I nodded in approval.
The assistant laid everything down on the bed, handed me a card, and then left.
What is this?
Surely it was from Aunt Suzi, but I wondered what she had to say to me.
Interesting.
Curiosity piqued my mind. I studied the elegant handwriting that spelled out my name in sweeping loops and lines. Then, I traced my finger along the silken surface of the envelope and flipped it over.
I wonder what she will say to me.
Nestled on the back flap was a uniquely captivating wax seal. It shimmered under the light. The seal was an intricate carving of four aces, each card slightly overlapping the other, forming a compact, yet recognizable formation—ace of hearts, ace of diamonds, ace of clubs, and ace of spades.
She really likes aces.
I carefully peeled back the seal.
Alright. Let’s see what this is all about.
As I opened the envelope, the faint scent of Aunt Suzi’s perfume wafted out, making me feel as if she was right there with me.
I gently slid out the letter. A dried flower fell into my palm.
Pretty.
I had no idea what type of flower it was, but its color of blushing pink and white was still vibrant despite being pressed and preserved.
The attention to detail made me smile.
Inside, I found a handwritten letter. The ink of the words was still fresh and slightly smudged in places.
Truly intrigued, I began to read.
Dear Monique,
I included a plum blossom with this message due to its resilience and perseverance. This is a flower that blooms vibrantly even in the harshness of winter. Even though darkness may come, this flower stands as a symbol of hope, courage, and beauty.