Fat Black Woman's Business Is Raided By Racist Gang, Unaware She Is A Retired Army Ranger

in a small neighborhood where businesses were forced to pay for their own Survival Royal Roots stood defiant a place of warmth resilience and Community Jrock and his crew saw none of that when they walked through its doors they saw a fat black woman apron tied around her waist her hands dusted with the remnants of another workday to them she was soft predictable just another shop owner who would fold Under Pressure they had done it before threats violence broken glass if necessary everyone had a breaking point but Amira Williams wasn't like everyone else before she ever

picked up a pair of shears she had carried weapons Far deadlier trained in The Art of War survived battles that had left men like Jrock in the dirt she had spent years honing her instincts sharpening her body into something built for combat built to endure the gang thought they were forcing a woman into submission instead they were cornering a soldier daring her to fight back and when the dust settled when fists had flown and blood had been spilled it wouldn't be royal roots that lay in ruins it would be them before we go any further

comment where in the world you are watching from and make sure to subscribe the steady hum of Clippers the rhythmic snip of scissors and the warm scent of coconut oil filled Royal Roots Salon the afternoon sun streamed through the large front window casting golden light on the polished floors Amira Williams stood behind her chair effortlessly twisting a client's thick curls into neat coils her hands worked with skill and purpose but her eyes flicked toward the front of the shop always watching Always aware she saw him first a young gang member no older than 20 leaned

against the lamp post across the street pretending to scroll through his phone he wasn't fooling anyone the same kid had been there the past 3 days staring through the glass taking mental notes testing the waters Amir exhaled slowly tightening a coil with practiced ease M Amira you hear what happened to Sunny's Deli Nia one of her stylists asked lowering her voice Amira didn't look up what happened they smashed his windows in last night tagging his walls talking about how he needs to pay his dues a knowing silence fell over the salon another business hit another

warning Amira nodded finishing the last twist she met her client's eyes in the mirror giving her a reassuring smile you're all set baby you know the drill oil those roots wrapid at night the client smiled back but the weight of the conversation lingered the door chime jingled the shop went still Jared Jrock Simmons walked in like he owned the place flanked by two of his men he was tall Broad and carried himself with the arrogance of a man who had never been told no his presence was suffocated ating filling the salon with unspoken threats he

clapped his hands together flashing a wolfish grin damn this place is nice real nice Amir didn't stop moving she turned toward the counter wiping her hands on a towel unfazed you lost Jrock a chuckle rippled through his crew nah I know exactly where I'm at his grin widened but his eyes were sharp came to talk business a tense silence filled the the room Amira leaned against the counter arms crossed then talk Jrock let the silence stretch savoring the way the tension in the room thickened the air itself turning dense with the weight of his presence

he moved slowly deliberately his dark eyes dragging over every inch of the salon lingering just long enough on each detail to make it clear that he wasn't just looking he was claiming the space his fingers tapped lazily against the edge of the counter as he turned back to Amira his gold toothed grin widening you've been running this little spot for what five 10 years he clicked his tongue shaking his head as if it truly was a shame damn shame if it all went to waste Amira unmoved continued wiping her hands on the towel her expression

as solid and steady as ever you wasting my time or you getting to the point jrock's smirk faltered just slightly a quick flicker like a candle caught in a sudden draft his boys caught it the subtle hesitation the momentary loss of control but Jrock was quick rolling his shoulders and masking the slip with a slow Shake of his head damn Amira that's cold his voice carried a mocking warmth like he was disappointed but still amused by her Defiance I'm out here trying to help a sister out and you acting like I'm the bad guy one

of his boys Dre let out a low chuckle shaking his head that's the thing boss women like her don't ever know when they need help jrock's grin stretched wider his gaze sweeping over a mirror slow and deliberate like he was assessing her like she was less a business owner and more a thing to be judged you sitting real comfortable behind this counter huh his voice dropped slightly an undercurrent of something uglier slipping through bet you've been sitting real comfortable your whole damn life reys the other man standing just behind him snorted shaking his head yeah

she looked like she'd been eating good putting all that money into biscuits instead of security the laughter from his boys hit like a slap Rippling through the shop bouncing off the walls Nia stiffened where she stood her jaw tightening as her grip tightened around the spray bottle she was holding Marcus exhaled through his nose rolling his shoulders like he was forcing himself to stay still but Amira Amira was motionless she didn't Flinch didn't shift didn't even blink Jrock watched her carefully as if waiting for something waiting for her to break but when she didn't when

she didn't fold under his stare his grin curled into something meaner see I know you're smart he continued stepping even closer crowding her space you ain't dumb enough to think you can fight off the whole world his voice lowered the false friendliness melting away leaving only the raw threat beneath this neighborhood it's changing more desperate people moving in you never know who might walk in here one night maybe someone mad maybe someone careless his gaze flickered toward the cash register maybe someone just look into take what they think they deserve the weight of his words

pressed against the room air remained still her voice steady and smooth when she finally spoke you selling protection jrock's lips parted into a slow grin his teeth flashing gold nah I'm offering protection that's the difference this ain't some Shakedown Queen this is community service we just making sure everything stays peaceful the amusement returned to his voice but there was something meaner underneath it now he tilted his head eyes d dancing over her frame once again deliberately slow deliberately insulting I mean look at you he murmured clicking his tongue built like a damn tank but still

fragile in all the ways that matter he let out a slow whistle shaking his head like it was truly a shame you ever think about what happens if let's say you trip one day one bad fall and all that weight come crashing down the laughter from his boys was even louder this time bouncing off the walls filling the salon like smoke Nia shifted on her feet lips pressed into a thin line her shoulders stiff Marcus inhaled slowly gripping the Clippers in his hand like he was considering using them for something else Jrock grinned feeding off

the reaction then without another word he reached over the counter and popped open the register the click of the drawer sliding open sounded like a gunshot in the silence before anyone could react he grabbed a handful of cash a 20 a five a couple of ones not much but that wasn't the point the point was that he did it right in front of her a direct challenge the sound of rustling bills ripped through the tension Jrock flipped through the money lazily rubbing the 20 between his fingers like he was testing the quality damn feels real

soft he muttered guess that's that's what happens when you don't got to work hard for it huh then with a casual flick of his wrist he tossed the money onto the floor it fluttered down between them Landing in a crumpled mess at Amira's feet Oops he murmured then before anyone could stop him he reached behind him grabbed one of the glass shampoo bottles off the shelf and let it slip from his fingers shatter the bottle exploded against the hardwood floor liquid splattering across the surface the scent of honey and coconut oil instantly thick in the

air the salon gasped Dre let out a low chuckle shaking his head damn clumsy as hell boss Jrock turned back to Amira watching her waiting waiting for her to fold waiting for fear to settle in waiting for her to be like the others Amir finally moved her thick fingers clamped around his wrist tight fast like a damn vice Jrock froze the Laughing stopped his boys stiffened their cocky postures flickering with uncertainty Amir didn't say a word she just squeezed jrock's fingers twitched his wrist flexed against her grip but she didn't budge his face twitched not

from pain but from realization realization that he had just miscalculated he yanked his arm back too hard too quick like he was escaping instead of taking control his smirk was gone he shoved the money back into the register slamming the drawer shut his jaw tight his eyes flickered over her once more but he didn't step closer this time instead he inhaled sharply through his nose rolling his shoulders back like he was brushing off the moment a he said voice a little too even I get it he turned flicking his fingers toward the door motioning for

his boys to follow at the door Jrock paused just for a second next time his voice was calm but there was an edge now something darker curling beneath the surface I won't be so friendly and then he was gone the scent of broken shampoo still lingered in the air long after Jrock and his crew walked out of Royal Roots the shards of glass glittered under the fluorescent lights a few larger pieces embedded in the grooves of the wooden floor the shop had fallen into a thick silence like the walls themselves were holding its breath Nia

was the first to move with quick jerky motions she grabbed the broom from the back corner and started sweeping up the mess her hands tight on the handle muttering curses under her breath Marcus bent down to help shaking his head as he picked up the larger shards of glass with careful fingers Amira remained where she stood behind the counter arms crossed over her broad chest her face unreadable Amira Nia's voice sliced through the silence her tone sharp with anger barely held in check what the hell was that Amira didn't react Nia threw down the broom

her patience snapping that was a test she answered for her her voice growing louder and what we just ignore it pretend this ain't the same thing they did to Sunny's Deli before they busted out his windows you think they're just going to walk away she gestured toward the broken bottle the spilled prod seeping into the cracks of the floor they ain't just testing Amira they're warming up Marcus ran a hand over his head his jaw tight she's right he said quietly we need to be real about this you know what's coming next Amira did know

Jrock had already made up his mind he had walked in here already decided that Royal Roots was his next claim and this this was the beginning the next time he wouldn't just be breaking things the next time he wouldn't just be making a statement he would tear this place apart to prove a point she should have been afraid she wasn't she had seen worse men than Jrock in far worse places than this we keep running business as usual she said finally her voice level Nia let out a sharp breath hands going to her hips that's

it that's your whole plan Amir leaned forward against the counter meeting her stare with an unshaken calm they want me scared they they want me to fold before they even have to do anything so we keep moving we keep working Nia looked ready to argue but she saw something in amir's face that made her swallow whatever words were sitting on her tongue She shook her head instead grabbing the broom again and sweeping harder than necessary Marcus however wasn't letting this go and what happens when they come back Amira cuz they will you know how this

goes they're going to start harassing the shop making it impossible to do business until you give in amir's fingers tapped slowly against the countertop because Marcus was right the next morning Royal Roots opened as usual the neon sign flickered on chairs were set up stations were prepped the scent of curling irons heating up mixed with the aroma of fresh coffee and customers started filtering in chatting and laughing as if the tension from the day before hadn't soaked into the walls but Amira knew better it started small at first it was just presence jrock's boys started

hanging around outside posted up on the curb across the street leaning against parked cars smoking and talking loudly they weren't blocking the door but they were watching always watching then they started getting closer Dre and Reese leaned against the wall right next to the entrance their bodies relaxed their smirks lazy but the the message was clear every time a customer walked in they muttered something under their breath sometimes it was harmless damn sis you look good today other times it was more pointed you sure you want to spend money here whole place might be gone

next week a few of the regulars started hesitating glancing nervously at the men before stepping inside by the third day the gang upped the pressure they started parking their bikes in front of the entrance forcing custom to weave through them just to get inside one of the younger gang members some little punk barely out of high school started playing his music loud as hell the base shaking the windows of the shop then the window broke a brick thrown in the dead of night crashing through the glass a picture frame shattered a photo of Amira's mother

the woman who had inspired her to open Royal roots in the first place the message was clear this wasn't just about money anymore this was about breaking her Nia was Furious when she arrived that morning oh hell no This Is War Marcus stood next to her arms crossed his face unreadable what now eh Amira bent down picking up the picture frame from the floor brushing the shards of glass off carefully she didn't answer not at first then in the silence a voice cut in I can file a report but you you know how this goes

detective Kyle Burns stood in the doorway arms crossed looking at the damage with a look of forced sympathy Amira exhaled through her nose she had been expecting him Burns was always around the one officer that still gave this part of the neighborhood any attention he was a man who looked exhausted the kind of cop who had seen too much lost too much and stopped pretending he could fix it all he stepped inside glancing around I heard about Jrock stopping by and now this he motioned to the broken glass with a tilt of his head you

know how these things go you push back they push harder amir's lips pressed into a thin line and what exactly are you suggesting detective Burns sighed rubbing a hand over his tired face I'm saying you play it smart you let it go you don't poke the bear his eyes met hers steady they want you scared Ed they want you to react don't give them a reason to make it worse Nia let out a sharp bitter laugh oh right so she's just supposed to let them take whatever they want Burns's expression was careful I'm saying pick

your battles Amira studied him her expression unreadable she had a feeling Burns wasn't just giving advice he was warning her I'll take care of it she said finally Burns studied her for a moment longer then gave a small nod let me know if you need anything he turned walking out the door closing softly behind him the moment he was gone Nia shook her head that's it that's your grand plan take care of it Amira set the broken frame on the counter her fingers tightening around the edge we get ready she murmured Marcus frowned for what

Amir lifted her head her reflection fractured in the remaining shards of the broken window for when they come back the night after the window was shattered Amira sat alone in Royal Roots the lights dim the only sound the soft hum of the refrigerator in the break room the broken glass had been swept the picture frame tucked away but the damage remained it wasn't just about the money it wasn't even about the shop this was a challenge Jrock wasn't just trying to intimidate her he was trying to own her trying to force her to accept that

Royal Roots would never truly be h hers unless he allowed it that was never going to happen she rolled her shoulders exhaled and got to work the first thing she did was reinforce the doors the front door had a basic lock but that wouldn't cut it she went to the back room rumaging through her Supply shelves until she found what she needed a metal security bar she fixed it into place testing its weight nodding in satisfaction when it held steady no more easy break-ins next she she turned her attention to the windows the broken one

was already boarded up but that wouldn't stop them from coming back for more she measured out thick wooden panels and secured them over every vulnerable window sealing them tight if they wanted to get inside they'd have to work for it she moved through the shop like a woman possessed reinforcing what needed to be reinforced removing anything that could be used against her she wasn't just securing the shop she was fortifying it once the physical barriers were in place she turned her Focus to weapons she wasn't naive she knew that when Jrock came back he wouldn't

just come to break things he'd bring his people and this time it wouldn't just be threats and Bricks she went to her office unlocking the small metal case she hadn't touched in years inside her old army ranger combat knife lay on the Velvet lining polished sharp as ever the weight of it in her hand was familiar she slipped it into a sheath and secured it under the counter then she reached under the register pulling out a small baseball bat not a cheap aluminum one this was solid wood weighty in her grip she tested the swing

nodding to herself if it came to it she'd be ready blocking the doors wasn't enough she needed to control the space she pulled out a long roll of fishing wire from the back room and began and stringing it across the main walkway just a few inches above the ground not enough to be obvious but enough to send a careless man tumbling forward near the shampoo station she positioned a bucket of hot water balanced on the edge of a shelf a well-placed nudge and it would fall scalding and distracting anyone who thought they could rush her

at the back door she scattered baby oil across the smooth floor knowing that the second someone stormed in without thinking they'd end up on their ass none of it was deadly but it would give her the upper hand and that was all she needed the next morning when Nia walked in for her shift she stopped mid-step eyes scanning the boarded up Windows the extra locks the trip wires strung up near the floor her face Twisted the hell is all this Marcus stepped in behind her taking it all in his brows raising as he eyed the

baby oil gleaming on the back floor Amira emerged from the back room dusting her hands off on a rag preparation she said simply Nia blinked preparation for what the Hunger Games Marcus let out a low chuckle rubbing his chin damn you rigged this place like a damn Battlefield Amira Shrugged you think they're just going to walk in and leave Jrock don't operate like that when he comes back he's coming for more than just a conversation Nia stared at her then at the bat leaning against the counter you expecting a fight I'm expecting them to push

their luck Amira met her gaze evenly and I plan to be ready when they do a silence settled between them then Marcus let out a slow breath and grinned hell he said shaking his head guess I better bring my work boots tomorrow Amira smirked might be a good idea Nia exhaled sharply rubbing her temples yall are insane she muttered but when she looked at Amira again there was something else behind the frustration respect because Amira wasn't backing down she was getting ready and when the time came Jrock was going to realize just how badly he

underestimated her the tension had been building for days Amira knew it was coming Jrock wasn't the type to let a challenge go unanswered she had humiliated him the last time he stepped foot inside Royal roots and men like him didn't take humiliation lightly that night as she locked up the shop she took one last look at her handiwork the reinforced doors the traps carefully placed the makeshift weapons stashed in Easy reach she let her fingers brush over the bat resting within Arms Reach beneath the counter feeling the weight of it solid and familiar before letting

her hand drop to her side everything was in place all that was left was to wait and she didn't have to wait long the first sign of their arrival came in the form of a low rolling growl of engines outside the deepthroated rumble of motorcycles and the occasional rev of an impatient car the sound was unmistakable the kind of noise that sent a shiver of anticipation through the air announcing their presence before they even stepped foot on the pavement Amira standing in the darkened shop glanced toward the clock on the wall 11 47 p.m. too

late for casual business too early for the streets to be empty moving carefully she stepped toward the boarded up window keeping her body low and out of sight as she peered through a small gap between the wooden planks the street outside bathed in the dim flickering light of the old Street lamps cast Long Shadows that stretched across the pavement stretching and twisting as if they too sensed the violence creeping into the night Jrock stood at the center of the sidewalk his arms hanging loose at his sides his posture deceptively casual but Amira could see the

tension in his stance the way his shoulders were drawn back just slightly the way his head tilted forward eyes scanning the building in front of him he wasn't just here to make noise he was here to take control flanking him were at least six men each one exuding the same dangerous confidence their expressions ranging from eager an anticipation to cold calculation one of them tall and wiry absent-mindedly flipped a crowbar in his hand passing it from Palm to Palm as if testing the weight while another built like a bulldozzer rested a wooden bat on his

shoulder tapping it idly against his palm as he stared at the front door Amira let out a slow measured breath feeling her heartbeat settle into a steady controlled Rhythm she could already feel the surge of adrenaline creeping into her veins sharpening her Focus making her hyperaware of every sound every movement every Potential Threat this was a feeling she knew well the same sensation she had felt countless times before right before a fight outside Jrock let out a quiet chuckle his breath fogging up the glass on the broken window as he reached out running his fingers

along the boarded up section knocking twice with his knuckles in a slow taunting Rhythm you in there Queen his voice was smooth almost friendly but dripping with mockery the kind of tone that carried the weight of a threat hidden beneath false politeness come on now don't be rude you knew I was coming Amira didn't move didn't answer Jrock smirked turning slightly to glance over his shoulder at his men she real quiet huh guess all that big talk dried up Dre standing standing off to the side with his arms crossed let out a low Snicker shaking

his head bet she hiding in the back you know how they do act all tough till it's time to throw hands Jrock exhaled sharply as if disappointed then motioned lazily toward one of the men beside him go ahead he said his tone almost bored the man stepped forward without hesitation gripping the Crowbar tighter as he raised it then swung it directly into the wooden boards covering the window the impact rang out like a gunshot the sharp crack of splintering wood reverberating through the street making the silence that followed feel even heavier inside Amira's grip tightened

around the bat another smash followed the force of the second hit splitting the wood sending Jagged splinters flying into the night air Jrock side shaking his head in fainted disappointment as he pulled a cigarette from his pocket lighting it with a flick of his lighter see I tried to be nice he murmured exhaling a plume of smoke into the air gave you a chance real good deal but you wanted to be hard-headed now I got to remind you who really runs this street another crash the final blow shattered the wooden barrier completely sending a Cascade

of debris to the sidewalk one of jrock's men reached through the Gap unlocked the door from the inside and pushed it open Amira inhaled through her nose slow and steady they had just stepped into her trap the moment the first guy pushed through the entrance his boot caught on the fishing wire stretched across the floor the nearly Invisible Thread snapping tight around his ankle he barely had time to process what had happened before his body was yanked forward thrown off balance his momentum sending him crashing face first onto the floor a loud thud echoed through

the shop as he groaned his hands scrambling beneath him in an attempt to push himself up but before he could regain his footing the metal shelf near the entrance tipped over sending a rain of hot Combs shampoo bottles and styling tools crashing onto his back crap another one of the men started to step inside reaching for a weapon but the moment his boots hit the tile he lost his balance his arms flailed wildly as his feet slipped on the thin layer of baby oil a mirror had spread across the floor his body completely failing him

as he tumbled backward hitting the ground with a sickening thud the moment he went down Amira moved with explosive force she swung the bat low aiming directly for his ribs the wood connected with a sharp Hollow crack the sound of bone and impact filling the air as he let out a strangled gasp his entire body convulsing as he clutched his side in agony jrock's smirk was gone everything had happened too fast they had come in thinking this was an easy job expecting her to be terrified to beg to surrender before they even had to lay

a hand on her but Amira wasn't begging she was fighting back jrock's face darkened his hand twitching at his side before he pulled a switchblade from his pocket flicking it open with a sharp metallic click you think you a damn superhero huh he snarled his voice filled with uncontained rage think you some kind of warrior Amira rolled her shoulders her grip tightening around the bat her eyes steady as she met his glare without fear I ain't got to think she said calmly I am Jrock lunged Jrock lunged the sharp gleam of his switchblade slicing through

the dim light of Royal Roots The Edge aiming straight for Amira's midsection he moved fast but not fast enough Amir Twisted her body at the last second stepping sideways letting the blade miss her by inches before Jrock could recover she grabbed his wrist with both hands twisting hard using the momentum of his own attack against him the knife clattered to the floor bouncing once before skidding under a station chair Jrock barely had time to react before amir's elbow drove into his ribs forcing a choked gasp from his throat he stumbled back his hand instinctively going

going to his side his face twisting in Rage and disbelief he hadn't expected this none of them had for a split second the entire shop froze the air thick with stunned silence as jrock's men took in what had just happened then chaos erupted Dre and Reese rushed forward at the same time their eyes burning with aggression the one with the Crowbar lifted it high his muscles tightening for a downward swing aimed right at Amira's head she moved first her hands shot out grabbing a salon chair by the back rest and with a powerful heave she

swung it upward catching the Crowbar midair the impact sent a violent jolt through Dre's arm the force knocking him off balance his grip loosened just enough for Amira to slam the chair into his chest sending him staggering backward crashing into a mirror with a loud splintering shatter the second man reys charged right on Andre's heels trying to take advantage of the distraction his hands were bald into fists his steps quick and heavy but Amira had already anticipated it she dropped low shifting her weight onto her back foot then thrust forward with a brutal jab her

fist colliding with the soft flesh of his throat Reese choked eyes bulging as he stumbled sideways gasping for air one hand clutching at his neck while the other flailed for balance a third attacker tried to grab her from behind but Amira had been in too many fights to let someone sneak up on her that easily as soon as she felt the movement behind her she whipped her head back slamming the back of her skull into his face there was a sickening crack the unmistakable sound of a nose breaking followed by a sharp Yelp of pain

as he reeled away blood streaming down his mouth another man grabbed a hair dryer off the counter swinging it like a makeshift Club aiming right for her head Amira ducked narrowly avoiding the strike then drove her knee into his stomach before he could recover he let out a pained grunt his body folding Inward and she followed up with a Savage Hammer fist to the side of his jaw his legs gave out beneath him and he crumpled to the floor unmoving Jrock now recovered from her earlier hit wiped his bloody nose on the sleeve of his

jacket his teth teeth clenched get her you dumb asses two more rushed in one grabbing a pair of scissors from The Styling Station the other swinging wildly with a set of brass knuckles Amira's body moved on Instinct years of training flooding back like muscle memory she Sid stepped the man with the brass knuckles letting his momentum carry him forward then grabbed his arm and whipped him around using his own weight to send him crashing into his friend the man with the scissors stumbled nearly losing his grip and in that Split Second Amira struck she brought

her elbow down hard on his wrist forcing the blade to clatter to the ground before planting a brutal kick into his knee sending him sprawling onto his back with a pained cry the fight wasn't just brutal it was tactical Amira wasn't just hitting hard she was hitting smart she knew how to use their size and weight against them redirecting their Force rather than trying to overpower them outright she used the environment to her Advantage making every step every movement calculated and efficient but she wasn't Invincible a heavy fist suddenly slammed into her side knocking the

breath from her lungs pain exploding in her ribs she gritted her teeth absorbing the blow but the impact had left her open another man one she hadn't noticed creeping up behind her grabbed her by the arm yanking hard trying to pull her off balance for the first time amir's footing wavered and that's when she saw him Lil Trey the youngest of jrock's crew barely more than a kid stood Frozen near the entrance his back pressed against the door frame his eyes were wide darting between the Carnage unfolding before him his hands twitched at his sides

like he wanted to move but he didn't Amira locked eyes with him there was hesitation there uncertainty fear doubt for the first time she saw it he didn't want to be here the moment lasted only a second but in a fight like this a second was all she needed she Twisted violently Breaking Free from the man's grip on her arm then spun on her heel bringing her elbow up in a sharp Arc connecting squarely with his Temple he dropped instantly his body crashing onto a pile of Fallen styling products the room was in shambles now

mirrors cracked chairs overturned hair products spilled across the floor like blood in the aftermath of battle Jrock was still standing barely his chest heaving one hand clutching his ribs his men were either unconscious groaning or staggering toward the exit Lil Trey still hadn't moved Amira took a step toward him voice steady despite the bruises forming beneath her skin you don't got to go down with them kid Trey's throat bobbed as he swallowed hard his gaze darting to Jrock then back to Amira Jrock let out a pained bitter laugh shaking his head Trey if you don't

get your ass in here but the kid didn't move instead he did the only thing that made sense in that moment he ran jrock's face Twisted with rage as he watched him go but he was too injured to chase after him his Focus snapped back to Amira his glare dark and venomous this ain't over he spat his voice dripping with Fury Amir wiped a smear of blood from the corner of her mouth with the back of her hand no she said her voice firm unshaken it ain't Amira knew better than to believe the fight was

over Jrock had taken his beating his boys had limped out of Royal roots and for now they were licking their wounds but men like Jrock never let humil ation sit for long he would come back harder meaner with a plan that went beyond bricks through windows and broken furniture and the worst part he wasn't the only problem Amira had seen it in detective Burns's face during his last visit the way he spoke with just a little too much familiarity about how these things go how he had told her to play it smart like he was

offering her some kind of Lifeline the moment he stepped into her shop after the first attack she had felt it in her gut he wasn't here to help her he was here to keep things quiet to make sure the pieces fell in the right place she just didn't know whose side he was really on yet so Amira did what she had always been good at she watched she waited and when the time was right she followed it had been 3 days since the attack on Royal roots and Amira had kept a low profile running her

shop as usual making repairs where she could and and keeping an eye on her surroundings jrock's boys had stopped hanging around outside not because they were afraid but because they were planning something bigger Amir didn't believe in coincidences and the fact that burns hadn't been back to check in only made her more suspicious so when she spotted his unmarked car parked outside a rundown bar on the south side of town late that night she didn't hesitate she followed on foot staying back keeping to the Shadows Burns wasn't in uniform which meant this wasn't Official Police

business that meant he was up to something the bar he had entered was a place she had seen before the pit a hole in the wall joint known for backro deals and criminals who weren't afraid to get their hands dirty Burns didn't belong here unless he did Amira slipped inside keeping her Hood up her steps careful and measured the air smelled like cheap beer sweat and bad decisions dim lights flickered overhead Illuminating the cracked bar stools and a juke box that hadn't worked in years a few men sat hunched over their drinks barely looking up

when she passed she spotted Burns near the back tucked into a booth with Jrock sitting across from him her stomach tightened there it is jrock's face was still bruised from their last encounter a faint purple Mark near his jaw but he wasn't acting like a man who who had been beaten down he was leaning forward talking low confident burns on the other hand looked tired rubbing his face as he listened nodding occasionally Amira moved closer finding a darkened Corner near the bar where she could Eaves drop without drawing attention jrock's voice carried just enough for

her to catch bits and pieces told you it was handled Burns let out a harsh breath handled you call what happened at that shop handled you're lucky nobody got killed Jrock chuckled the sound low and amused ain't my fault my guys got sloppy what you expect me to just let her slide Burns leaned in his voice tight I expect you to keep things quiet you keep pushing people start asking questions and that's bad for both of us Amira clenched her jaw so that was it burns wasn't just letting Jrock operate he was protecting him Jrock

smirked swirling the drink in his glass man relax nobody going to find out you've been keeping the heat off me you do your job I do mine and we both eat that was the deal wasn't it burns didn't answer right away he exhaled rubbing a hand over his face before muttering yeah that was the deal Amira felt the weight of those words settle into her bones Burns wasn't just on jrock's payroll he was making sure Jrock stayed in power she had suspected corruption in the department hell everyone in the neighborhood did but now she had

proof and proof was dangerous because it meant she wasn't just up against Jrock anymore she was up against the system protecting him Amira didn't stick around to hear the rest she had heard enough moving as silently as she came she slipped out of the pit and back into the night her mind already racing this wasn't just about Royal Roots anymore if Jrock had cops keeping his Pockets lined then no amount of police reports no amount of waiting on Justice was going to save her shop she needed to expose this she needed to make it undeniable

because if Burns was the reason Jrock had never been taken down before then she was going to be the reason he went down now but she had to be careful if she made one wrong move she wouldn't just have Jrock coming after her she'd have the entire dirty half of the apartment doing the same she took a slow deep breath letting the cool night air ground her then she did what she did best she started planning Amir didn't go home that night after what she had seen at the pit she knew there was no turning

back Jrock wasn't just some gang leader shaking down local businesses he was protected shielded by A system that was just as corrupt as he was and burns the so-called law in this city wasn't just looking the other way he was making sure Jrock stayed in power she sat alone in Royal Roots the dim light from the Street Lamp outside flickering through the boarded up Windows her fingers tracing the edges of her phone as she replayed the recording in her mind every word every smug admission every piece of evidence that burns and Jrock had given her

without even realizing it she had everything she needed now all she had to do do was use it the first call she made was to Marcus she didn't bother easing into it there wasn't time as soon as he picked up she simply said I need you at the shop now there was no hesitation on my way 15 minutes later Marcus walked into Royal Roots shutting the door behind him with a quiet click his presence filled the room solid steady the kind of man you wanted at your back when things got ugly he took one look

at A Mir and knew you got something he said his voice calm but expectant she slid her phone across the counter pressing play on the recording Burns's voice filled the room his own words digging his grave look just keep it quiet and I'll make sure patrols stay off your block you know how this works just pay your dues and I'll keep things smooth Marcus listened without speaking his face unreadable as the recording played out as jrocks laughter mixed with Burns's tired acceptance of their Arrangement when it ended he exhaled slowly shaking his head you got

them I got a piece of them Amir corrected her jaw tightening but I need all of them in one place one hit no escapes Marcus leaned back against the counter rubbing a hand over his beard as he considered it and what's the bait she met his eyes without hesitation me the plan had to be perfect it had to look real it had to look like Amira was desperate she made sure the right people overheard her doubts let it slip that she was finally ready to be smart about the situation that she had seen the bigger

picture and was willing to play along she let it be known that she wanted to make things right before Jrock escalated further Jrock took the bait with zero hesitation his ego wouldn't let him believe otherwise Burns set up the meeting picking the location himself and a abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town neutral ground a place where Amira wouldn't have any backup any control he thought he was being careful thought he was setting the terms what he didn't know was that Amir had chosen the location herself by the time night fell Marcus had already been

inside the warehouse for hours setting everything up he wasn't just an xmarine he was a tactician a fighter a man who knew how to turn any environment into an advantage by the time the meeting was set the warehouse was ready Jrock and burns thought they were walking into a negotiation but in reality they were walking into a battlefield Amira stood alone in the center of the warehouse arms crossed her stance casual but deliberate she could hear the low Rumble of an approaching engine the slow roll of cars pulling up outside the sharp slam of doors

as men stepped out onto the cracked pavement Jrock entered first his usual Swagger intact though his face still carried the bruises from their last encounter he had four men with him their movements confident lazy like they had already won they weren't just carrying weapons they were relaxed about it their hands resting near holsters near blades tucked into belts Burns followed close behind dressed in plain clothes no badge no sign that he was anything but a criminal in uniform his eyes swept the space scanning for anything out of place but he didn't see what wasn't obvious

everything looked empty everything looked exactly how they expected Amira didn't move didn't react she just watched as Jrock sauntered forward shaking his head with an almost amused look on his face now that's more like it he said gesturing around the room like he owned it see this is how things should have been from the start you being smart finally realizing how crap works around here Amira tilted her head slightly her expression unreadable that's so Jrock smirked you knew you didn't have a choice you can fight all you want but in the end you fall in

line Burns stepped forward his hands tucked in his jacket pockets you made the right call Williams his voice was quieter than jrocks more measured but it carried the same certainty the same arrogance this is bigger than your shop you had to know that Amira let the silence hang between them for a moment letting them settle into their Victory then she exhaled slowly tilting her chin slightly so what happens now Jrock grinned now you sign over a piece of your profits make things easy and in return we make sure nothing happens to you we keep everything

peaceful Amira smiled but there was no warmth in it she could feel it the shift the moment before before the storm breaks because Jrock and burns still thought they were in control they still thought they were leading this conversation what they didn't know was that Marcus was in the rafters waiting for the signal what they didn't know was that every exit had been cut off what they didn't know was that the fight hadn't ended at Royal Roots it was just beginning Amira shifted her weight slightly her stance relaxing just enough to make J Rock smirk

he thought he had won good let him think that for just a few more seconds because the next time he blinked he'd realize he had just walked into his own damn grave the warehouse was silent the kind of Silence that comes before a storm heavy with unspoken threats and the quiet arrogance of men who thought they had already won Jrock stood in front of Aira his smirk widening as she remained still drinking in what he believed was her surrender Burns standing slightly behind him wasn't smiling his posture was stiff his hands deep in his jacket

pockets his eyes flickering over the space like a man who was starting to sense something wasn't quite right Amira let them enjoy their illusion of victory for a moment longer before reaching into her pocket she didn't move fast didn't give them reason to react she simply pulled out her phone tapped the screen once and let the sound fill the Warehouse Burns's own voice echoed off the metal walls look just keep it quiet and I'll make sure patrols stay off your block you know how this works jrock's smirk faltered but only slightly his gaze slid toward

Burns amused but not yet concerned damn he chuckled shaking his head that's crazy cop she got you real good Amira didn't stop the recording just pay your dues and I'll keep things smooth ain't nobody going to find out you've been keeping the heat off me you do your job I do mine and we both eat that was the deal wasn't it burns stiffened his face lost color his mouth parting slightly as if scrambling for an excuse he turned sharply toward Jrock his voice a hushed angry whisper you said you had this handled Jrock who had

been amused a moment ago now had a muscle ticking in his jaw his hands curled into fists at his sides and when he spoke his voice was darker more measured and you said the cops wouldn't be a problem for the first time since they stepped inside they weren't looking at Amira as their common enemy they were looking at each other that was all she needed you to done she asked her tone calm almost lazy or you want to argue some more before I take you both apart jrock's head snapped toward her his arrogance returning as

if he had momentarily forgotten who was standing in front of him his lips curled into something between amusement and irritation see now I know you lost your damn mind his fingers flexed at his sides rolling his neck like a fighter about to step into a ring you really think you're walking out of here Amira exhaled through her nose rolling her own shoulders loosening up I don't think she murmured I know the moment hung between them a single breath of Stillness before the tension snapped Jrock moved first he lunged Swinging with a wild confident hook putting

all of his weight into it aiming to drop her with one hit Amira ducked smoothly letting his fist sail just inches above her head she was already moving before he could recover stepping inside his reach planting her foot and driving her elbow deep into his rib cage the impact was sharp enough to make him Grunt and stumble slightly but he was too big to drop from just one hit he Twisted throwing a knee toward her stomach but Amira caught it with both hands Twisted sharply and sent him sprawling onto the concrete floor jrock's boys reacted

instantly Dre was the first to rush in a heavy set man with fast hands he came in swinging his fists aiming for her face but Amira leaned back weaving through the strikes with controlled Precision the moment he overextended she caught his wrist yanked him forward and drove her knee into his stomach he choked doubling over she grabbed the back of his neck and drove him head first into the nearest Crate Burns who had been frozen up until now seemed to realize the shift in control he lunged from behind trying to grab Amira in a choke

hold but she had felt him coming she Twisted at the last second grabbing his arm using his own momentum to flip him over her shoulder and onto the cold concrete with a a heavy slam Burns groaned struggling to get up but before he could Marcus emerged from the Shadows his boot came down hard on Burns's chest pinning him in place nah Marcus said his voice low you sit this one out meanwhile Jrock had pushed himself back to his feet shaking off the hit his eyes burned with humiliation and rage all right he muttered rolling his

shoulders you want to do this the hard way he charged again this time more controlled more focused he threw a sharp faint with his right but his real Attack came from his left a tight powerful uppercut meant to break through her defense Amira saw it coming she sidestepped at the last second avoiding the blow entirely and before he could reset she slammed her fist into his throat Jrock choked his breath hitching as he stumbled back gasping his hands instinctively going to his neck Amira didn't stop she closed the distance delivering a sharp kick to the

back of his knee forcing him down the second he hit the ground she grabbed his head and yanked it backward keeping him in place he struggled snarling through gritted teeth you done yet she asked her breath steady unshaken Jrock growled low in his throat still trying to push up despite the undeniable weight of his defeat press pressing down on him she squeezed harder her grip firm against his jaw you don't run this street anymore she said voice calm and final you don't run me this this is over but she knew Jrock she knew his type

and she knew he wasn't going down without one final play she saw his muscles tense before he moved felt his weight shift and knew he was about to try and break free Amira's hold tightened Jay ripped himself free from amir's grip his brute strength overpowering her hold as he twisted violently using the weight of his body to throw her off balance the moment he broke loose he drove his elbow backward with Force catching her hard in the side of the face the impact sent a sharp sting through her jaw snapping her head to the side

she barely had time to recover before he was on her again his massive frame barreling forward his fists Swinging with pure aggression Amira ducked under the first wild hook feeling the wind of it Rush past her ear but Jrock was faster than she had anticipated He adjusted mid motion bringing his knee up and driving it into her midsection the blow sent a shock wave through her ribs knocking the breath from her lungs she staggered but she didn't go down instead she Twisted out of his reach re gaining her footing just as Dre charged in from

the side the heavys set enforcer swung a fist toward her ribs looking to wear her down with body shots Amira turned just in time deflecting the punch with her forearm but the force of it still sent a dull ache radiating through her muscles before Dre could pull back she struck fast grabbing his wrist and twisting it sharply forcing him to Bend forward with a quick step she drove her elbow down onto his shoulder joint making him Grunt in pain as his body lurched involuntarily but Jrock wasn't waiting he saw an opening and took it Amira

felt the impact before she saw it jrock's fist crashed against the side of her head rattling her skull she barely managed to roll with the hit but the force of it sent her stumbling sideways her vision swimming for half a second Jrock didn't let up he came in fast grabbing the front of her hoodie and yanking her forward his other hand already Rising for another devastating punch Amira reacted on Instinct she shifted her weight used his grip against him and twisted sharply Breaking Free and pivoting into a brutal Counterattack she launched a palm strike straight

into jrock's sternum her full strength behind it the blow forced him back a step but not enough to drop him Dre Shak taking off the pain in his arm roared as he lunged toward her again looking to tackle her Amira stepped to the side redirecting his momentum and as he stumbled past her she brought her knee up viciously into his gut the sound he made was wet choked as the air rushed out of his lungs but before she could finish him off Jrock was back in the fight he grabbed her from behind his thick arms

locking around her waist lifting her clean off the ground air back slammed against the cold Warehouse floor as he drove her down with full force knocking the wind out of her he was on top of her in an instant one knee pressing into her abdomen pinning her down as his fist came down toward her face she moved just in time jrock's punch barely missed smashing into the concrete next to her head the impact sending pain jolting up his knuckles using the moment Amira Twisted her body sharply throwing him off balance she shoved her forearm against

his throat bracing her legs and flipped them over reversing their positions now she was on top she drove her elbow down into his face snapping his head back against the ground he snarled trying to shove her off but Amira kept her balance slamming another punch into his jaw before she could land a third she felt hands yank at her shoulders reys one of jrock's crew who had had been waiting for his moment grabbed her from behind attempting to pull her off his boss Amira reacted fast grabbing Reese's wrist and twisting inward using his own grip

against him she spun Breaking Free and delivered a Savage kick to the inside of his knee sending him collapsing sideways but Jrock had used the distraction to get back up the moment she turned back toward him he was already in motion his fist crashing into her cheekbone the impact sent a flash of white pain across her vision her knees nearly buckling but she caught herself before she went down Jrock grinned through blooded teeth tired yet Amira wiped her mouth with the back of her hand tasting copper feeling the swelling already forming beneath her skin she

exhaled through her nose rolling her shoulders steadying herself not even close Jrock let out a short laugh then came at her again this time it was a full-on brawl blow after blow Amira and Jrock exchanged brutal strikes neither of them holding back he was bigger stronger but Amira was faster sharper more precise she wo through his attacks absorbing the ones she couldn't avoid making him work for every inch he threw a wild hook she ducked under it and landed a sharp body shot into his side he retaliated with a the knee she barely managed to

block it before launching a spinning back fist that sent him reeling Jrock was getting frustrated she could see it in the way his movements were losing discipline the way his punches were getting wider sloppier but she wasn't the only one hurting her ribs achd her muscles screamed and her breathing was getting heavier they circled each other now both battered both bleeding both refusing to go down first behind her Marcus was locked in his own fight keeping the remaining goons at Bay making sure no one interfered but this this was between her and Jrock now no

more words no more threats just the fight the Jrock rushed forward throwing a brutal flurry of punches trying to overwhelm her Amira parried the first two blocked the third but the fourth slipped through crashing into her ribs and knocking her back she hit the ground pain exploding through her body Jrock stood over her breathing hard his face dripping sweat and blood he cracked his knuckles rolling his shoulders stay down he warned before I put you down Amira gritted her teeth braced her hands against the floor and slowly pushed herself up jrock's face Twisted in disbelief

watching her stand again Amira locked eyes with him you first Jrock let out a snarl then launched himself at her one more time Jrock charged like a bull his body moving with sheer force his fists clenched tight rage pouring off him like heat from an open flame Amira braced herself watching his footwork the way his muscles coiled before each movement he was going for power over Precision trying to end this fight the only way he knew how by crushing whatever was in front of him she didn't let him the second he swung she pivoted slipping

just past the punch feeling the rush of air as his fist barely missed her jaw he was already winding up for another strike a brutal downward swing meant to break something Amira moved first she stepped in Twisted her hips and drove her fist into his exposed ribs a quick precise shot that sent a dull crack vibrating through her knuckles Jrock grunted barely reacting before he swung again this time catching her across the shoulder the blow was Heavy knocking her back a step but she stayed on her feet the pain registered sharp and deep but she

ignored it she had to Jrock lunged aiming to grab her Amira ducked under his arms grabbing his wrist mid motion using his own momentum she Twisted hard sending him stumbling past her before he could recover she drove her knee into the back of his leg forcing him to buckle but he didn't go down instead he twisted shoving her hard enough that she slammed into a crate pain exploding up her spine he was on her again in a second closing the space throwing a wild hook toward her head Amira barely blocked in time absorbing most of

the impact against her forearm but Jrock was relentless throwing another punch then another his Brute Force bearing down on her like a tidal wave a hit slipped through smashing against her ribs she felt the pain deep something inside her threatening to give Jrock saw it he grinned the blood on his teeth making it almost feral starting to break huh he taunted wiping his mouth with the back of his hand Amira exhaled slowly rolling her shoulders her heartbeat steady despite the ache she lifted her chin slightly eyes locked onto his you talk too much jrock's grin

flickered for half a second before he rushed her again this time Amira met him head on she stepped into his space cutting off his swing before it could gain power she grabbed his arm twisting sharply before ramming her elbow into his jaw his head snapped to the side but he didn't fall instead he drove his head forward slamming it against her forehead in a Savage headbutt Stars burst across her vision her balance teetering for a split second a split second too long Jrock used the opening grabbing her by the throat lifting her slightly before slamming

her back down onto the concrete the impact rattled through her bones knocking the wind from her lungs for a moment the world narrowed to just pain Jrock knelt over her his weight pinning her down his breath heavy against her face this what you wanted huh this little hero crap think you can beat me his fingers tightened around her throat his strength pressing down Amira didn't Panic even as her air flow cut short even as the pressure against her windpipe grew she stayed focused Jrock was strong but sloppy he relied on overwhelming Force but Force could

be redirected she gritted her teeth planting her feet against his hips and with every ounce of strength she had left she kicked the sudden Force sent him flying backward his grip breaking as he tumbled across the floor Landing with a heavy thud Amira rolled onto her knees coughing her throat aching but she didn't stay down she pushed up dragging in a full breath as she stalked forward her steps slow but certain Jrock was getting up too shaking off the fall his expression shifting from Amusement to something darker something desperate she could see it now the

doubt creeping in the realization that she wasn't breaking that she wasn't folding that he had underestimated her that was his mistake and she was about to make sure he felt it Jrock threw another punch sloppy his movements slower than before Amira caught his wrist mid motion and yanked him forward slamming her knee into to his stomach his body folded slightly but she wasn't done she grabbed the back of his head twisting and slammed him face first into the side of a metal crate the impact was brutal Jrock stumbled blood dripping from his nose but he

refused to fall Amira didn't wait she spun low sweeping his legs out from under him sending him crashing onto his back the moment he hit the ground she was already moving she dropped on to him pinning him beneath her and with one final punch she drove her fist into his face jrock's head bounced against the concrete his body going still for just a second not unconscious not yet but close she grabbed him by the front of his hoodie yanking him up just enough to make sure he saw her clearly you done she asked voice steady

despite the fire burning in her muscles jrock's swollen eyes flickered blood trickling from his split lip he coughed laughing weakly through the pain you hit like a truck big girl Amira exhaled slowly her grip tightening and I can keep hitting all night for a moment he didn't move then his lips curled his bloody teeth flashing in something between a smirk and a Grimace I don't quit he rasped amir's jaw tightened good she murmured then she let him go Jrock barely had time to react before she stepped back motioning with her fingers get up Jrock bruised

and battered let out a slow exhale rolling his shoulders he was moving slower now his stance less sure but he still stood both of them bleeding both barely holding themselves together one last round no distractions No Holds Barred Amir raised her fists letun finish this Jrock stood across from a miror his chest heaving his breath ragged sweat d ripping down his blooded face his lip was split his right eye swollen his ribs bruised from the unrelenting punishment Amir had dealt him yet he was still standing Amira was no better every muscle in her body screamed

her ribs achd from the blows she had taken and her arms felt like lead her Knuckles throbbed raw and bruised from hitting Jrock over and over again but she wasn't done yet and neither was he the warehouse felt smaller now the space between them charged with nothing but raw determination the sounds of jrock's men groaning in pain faded into the background this was it no weapons no backup no more words just the fight Jrock wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand rolling his shoulders like he was gearing up for one

final push he smirked through the pain his teeth red stained you still think you got me beat he rasped voice rough Amira tilted her head slightly her lips twitching into something that wasn't quite a smile I don't think she murmured I know Jrock let out a short harsh chuckle then he moved he lunged fast despite his injuries throwing a tight jab toward her face Amira barely dodged feeling the air shift as his knuckles grazed past her cheek but she had read him now he wasn't as fast as before his punches were still powerful but he

was slowing down his muscles exhausted his body struggling to keep up she capitalized on it she stepped inside his reach cutting off his follow-up and slammed a short sharp uppercut into his ribs Jrock grunted but Twisted trying to counter Amira anticipated it weaving under his hook and delivering a brutal knee to his stomach his breath hitched as the impact folded him slightly but he forced himself upright swinging an elbow toward her Temple it connected barely but enough to make Amira's Vision blur for a second Jrock saw his opening and tackled her driving her backward they

hit the floor hard Jrock pinning her beneath him his hands wrapping around her throat his grip was tight his weight pressing down crushing the air from her lungs Amira gritted her teeth refusing to panic she Twisted fast breaking his grip her fingers clawing into his wrist she yanked him forward just enough to throw him off balance then slammed the heel of her Palm into his chin snapping his head back Jrock staggered his grip loosening that was all she needed she planted her feet threw her weight upward and sent him tumbling off of her the second

she was free she rolled and kicked him in the side forcing him to scramble back onto to his feet he wasn't grinning anymore this wasn't fun for him this was survival he came at her again slower this time his body weighing him down his punches weren't as crisp his footwork wasn't as sharp Amira despite her exhaustion still had control she dodged slipped around his attack saw the gaps the weaknesses he was leaving openings now she took advantage of every single one she slammed a fist into his gut a hook to his jaw an elbow to

his Temple each strike chipped away at him knocking him back stealing his breath taking him apart piece by piece Jrock threw one last desperate swing sloppy Reckless Amira caught his arm Twisted it violently and sent him crashing onto the concrete this time he didn't get up right away his breath was loud in the empty Warehouse labored and unsteady his body shook with exhaustion his arms trembling as he tried to push himself upright Amira stood over him her breathing rough but controlled she grabbed the front of his hoodie yanking him up just enough to make sure

he saw her clearly you done she asked her voice calm steady unshaken Jrock blinked up at her his swollen eye barely opening his lip bleeding freely he coughed shaking his head slightly but the fight was gone from his posture finally after a long pause he exhaled through his nose his head dipped slightly his shoulders sagging Amira could feel it the shift the moment he realized that he had lost she let go of his hoodie letting him drop back onto the cold floor around them the rest of his men were either out cold or groaning in

pain Marcus still standing guard his own knuckles bruised from the beating he had delivered Jrock swallowed hard his head rolling to the side as he stared up at the ceiling he let out a short weak laugh shaking his head crap he muttered Amir exhaled slowly rolling her shoulders that's what happens when you pick the wrong one Jrock didn't argue he just lay there battered beaten broken the fight was over but Amira wasn't done yet she wasn't just going to walk away from this she was going to make make sure that Jrock never had the power

to do this to anyone again and that meant one last step the police were coming and this time they weren't on his side Jrock lay on the cold concrete his chest rising and falling in ragged breaths his body too battered and broken to push himself up again the arrogance the confidence the smug Untouchable smirk that had been on his face when he walked into the warehouse all of it was gone his swollen eye barely opened his lips split his fingers twitching like he was still trying to summon the strength to keep fighting but his body

had given out on him the realization of it settled over him like a heavy weight the truth undeniable he had lost Amira stood over him her own body aching her ribs bruised her Knuckles raw and throbbing but she remained upright her breath deep and controlled despite the war her body had just endured she flexed her fingers rolling her shoulders willing herself to stay sharp because she knew this wasn't over yet the fight was finished but the battle the real battle was only now reaching its final stage she took a slow step back giving herself just

a moment to glance around at the aftermath of the war she had waged inside this Warehouse jrock's men were either unconscious or barely conscious their bodies sprawled across the space groaning shifting but none of them getting up Marcus standing near the edge of the chaos wiped the blood from his knuckles on the front of his shirt his eyes scanning the room making sure no one had the strength left to try something stupid Burns still slumped against a stack of crates let out a pained grunt as he slowly lifted his head his expression no longer composed

no longer carrying the weight of authority he had walked in with his shirt was stained with sweat and dust his face Twisted in something between pain and panic as his mind scrambled to figure out his next move but he had none Amira turned her gaze back to Jrock watching as he finally with a painful groan rolled onto his side his bloody teeth gritted together as he forced himself up onto his elbows every movement slow and painful he coughed spitting blood onto the ground before tilting his head up toward her his breath heavy but his pride

still clinging to him like a disease for a long moment neither of them spoke then with a weak almost mocking chuckle he exhaled through his nose you really think this means anything his voice was horar raw from the fight but the Defiance was still there buried under the exhaustion you think beating me in some rundown Warehouse house is going to change a damn thing he licked the blood from his lip his head tilting slightly as his eyes locked onto hers dark and knowing ain't just me big girl there's always another me another crew you ain't

changed crap Amira didn't blink she let him get it out let him cling to the last remnants of the power he thought he had before she finally spoke you're right she said her voice even calm steady despite the pain in her ribs there's always another you she crouched down slightly meeting his eye level making sure he saw her clearly but there ain't never going to be another me jrock's smirk flickered that was the moment he realized it this wasn't about some gang war some fight over territory or power this was about her and she wasn't

someone he could just scare couldn't just bully into submission couldn't just make disappear here she was still standing and he wasn't the sound of sirens cut through the night air the whale growing louder closer red and blue lights flashing through the high Windows of the warehouse Illuminating the dust still hanging in the air from the fight Jrock stiffened slightly his jaw tensing the first real hint of fear creeping into his eyes Burns cursed under his breath his head snapping toward the entrance as the reality of his situation began to sink in Marcus smirked slightly shaking

his head right on time Amira stood up slowly rolling her shoulders as she exhaled told you this was over Jrock let out another breathless bitter chuckle but this time it was quieter almost Hollow his head dropped slightly as if he finally accepted there was no way out of this the doors to the warehouse slammed open the heavy boots of real cops storming in their weapons drawn their voices loud commanding hands in the air don't move Amira lifted her hands easily calm unbothered Jrock still on the ground let out a slow sigh before he did the

same Burns however hesitated one of the officers turned toward him recognition flickering across his face as his brows furrowed burns the detective swallowed hard his fingers twitching like he was about to make make a very bad decision Amira arched a brow go ahead she said watching him carefully run see how far you get Burns's eyes snapped toward her wild now but he could see it the way the officers were already assessing him differently how the realization was starting to Dawn in their faces as they put the pieces together then one of them spoke into His

Radio confirmed we got the audio recordings looks like we got ourselves a dirty cop Burns's shoulders sagged his head dropped forward his fingers curling into fists before he finally finally lifted his hands in surrender Jrock just let out another tired chuckle shaking his head as an officer grabbed him roughly yanking him forward to slap cuffs around his wrists guess you ain't as Untouchable as you thought Amir muttered watching as both Jrock and burns were pulled toward the waiting squad cars outside for the first time in a long time she felt it the weight lifting she

glanced at Marcus who stretched his arms rotating his sore shoulders he looked at her with a smirk well that was fun Amira let out a slow exhaled breath shaking her head fun isn't the word I'd use Marcus chuckled cracking his knuckles good thing I wasn't asking as the cops hauled Jrock and burns away the flashing lights Illuminating the broken Warehouse house Amira took one last look at the space where the fight had ended she had won but more than that she had ended this for good and as she and Marcus stepped out into the night

leaving the wreckage behind she knew one thing for certain Royal Roots was still standing and so was she Jrock lay sprawled on the cold concrete his chest heaving his face battered beyond recognition his once cocky demeanor Stripped Away leaving behind only a broken bloodied shell of the man who had terrorized her shop for weeks his fingers twitched against the floor his swollen eyes barely open his breath coming in ragged bursts as he tried and failed to push himself back up the weight of the moment settled over him crushing undeniable he had lost Amira stood over

him her own body aching her Knuckles split her ribs screaming with every inhale but she was still on her feet every muscle in her body burned but she refused to show weakness refused to let him see even an ounce of exhaustion she had fought men like him before bigger stronger meaner and she had taken them down just like she had done tonight she rolled her shoulders back shaking out her bruised hands as she scan the wreckage around her jrock's men lay scattered moaning in pain barely conscious some of them curled up on the floor too

injured to even try and get back up a few had crawled toward the exit desperate to escape but Marcus had made sure none of them left before it was over Burns still slumped against a stack of crates let out a strangled Gran his hand clutching his side as he struggled to lift his head the cocky detective was gone replaced by a man who had realized far too late that he had backed the wrong horse his face Twisted in pain his mind clearly Racing for a way out but there was none the walls were closing in

and he knew it Amira's attention shifted back to Jrock who let out a weak wet chuckle blood staining his teeth as he tilted his head up to look at her his voice was hoarse barely more than a whisper you think this changes anything he coughed spitting red onto the floor his swollen lips curling into a bitter smirk ain't just me big girl another crew another boss they'll come you ain't changed nothing amir's expression remained unreadable she crouched down beside him her voice calm level steady as ever you're right she murmured there's always another you another

low life with a little power another Thug thinking he owns the streets another dirty cop making sure he stays on top she tilted her head slightly letting the words sink in in but you know what there ain't Jrock blinked slowly his eyes clouded with exhaustion with pain there ain't never going to be another me for the first time his smirk faded that was the moment he understood this wasn't just about money or power or control this was about Amira and he couldn't break her no matter how hard he tried the distant whale of sirens pierced

the silence the flashing red and blue lights painting streaks across the warehouse walls the sound grew louder closer until the front doors burst open and uniformed officers stormed inside their voices cutting through the air like gunfire hands where we can see them Jrock didn't move burns stiffened his face draining of all color he turned toward the entrance his mind racing his eyes darting between the cops flooding into the warehouse his fellow officers the ones not on his pay Ro one of them a hard-faced sergeant stepped forward his sharp gaze landing on burns immediately his voice

was clipped professional detective Burns he said his tone unreadable you're under arrest for conspiracy obstruction of justice and aiding and abetting criminal activity Burns's hands twitched like he was considering making a run for it but Amira simply arched a brow shaking her head slightly go ahead she said her voice smooth see how far you get Burns swallowed hard he knew he had nowhere to go slowly with a deep shuddering breath he lifted his hands in surrender the sergeant gave a Curt nod and two officers immediately stepped forward yanking Burns to his feet pulling his arms

behind his back before slapping the Cuffs onto his wrists with no ceremony no hesitation Jrock still on the ground let out a quiet bitter laugh as he watched damn he muttered shaking his head weakly guess you ain't as Untouchable as you thought huh cop Burns didn't respond he couldn't Amir just exhaled her shoulders relaxing slightly as she watched the scene unfold she had waited for this moment not just for herself but for everyone who had suffered under men like Jrock under dirty cops like Burns under the weight of a system that had failed them time

and time again tonight she had fought for more than her shop she had fought for her neighborhood the officers rounded up Jrock and his men locking their wrists in cuffs dragging them toward the waiting squad cars outside the gang leader barely resisted his body too beaten too exhausted to fight anymore but even as he was pulled up even as his knees buckled beneath him he still turned toward Amira one last time that damn smirk flickering back onto his face though weaker now Hollow this ain't over he murmured somebody always fills the vacuum Amira met his

stare steady unwavering then I'll be here when they do jrock's smirk finally faltered the cops hauled him outside his voice disappearing into the chaos Marcus still standing beside Amira cracked his knuckles before letting out a low whistle damn that was satisfying Amira let out a breath wiping the blood from her mouth you're telling me they stepped outside together the night air cooled against their bruised skin the neon sign of Royal Roots still glowing in the distance Still Standing Amir looked at it then at the flashing lights then at the wreckage of a war that had

finally ended she had won and for the first time in a long time she felt it peace a victory that wasn't just for her but for everyone who had ever been told to stay quiet to take the abuse to fold they wouldn't fold anymore and neither would she the flashing red and blue lights bathed the street outside the warehouse in an eerie glow reflecting off the broken glass rusted metal and The Battered bodies of Jrock and his men as they were dragged toward the waiting squad cars the once Untouchable gang leader the man who had

strutted into Royal roots with arrogance dripping off him now stumbled under the weight of his injuries his wrists bound his face swollen his breath ragged no one was laughing now not Jrock not his crew and certainly not detective Burns who stood off to the side his hands cuffed behind his back his expression a mix of humiliation fear and simmering resentment the officers who had come to clean up this mess weren't his people weren't the ones he could control manipulate or bribe these were the real ones the ones who had spent years watching the system fail

who had watched Jrock and his gang terrorized this neighborhood without consequence who had likely suspected for a long time that someone on the inside was keeping the streets dirty and now they had proof Amira stood off to the side arms crossed her body still aching from the fight but her stance firm her eyes sharp as she watched the officer work one of them a tall black Sergeant with streaks of gray in his beard walked toward her his face unreadable his uniform was crisp his eyes weary but alert like a man who had seen too much

but still gave a dam Williams He greeted his voice Gruff but steady Amir nodded once Sarge the sergeant exhaled through his nose looking around at the wreckage the aftermath of the battle that had taken place in this Warehouse his gaze lingered on Jrock now slumped against the hood of a squad car and then on burns who stood stiffly staring Straight Ahead like a man trying not to let the weight of his fall sink in been waiting for this one the sergeant muttered jerking his chin toward Burns Amira arched a brow yeah he nodded we knew

we had rot in the department but this this is cleancut we got him dead to rights he glanced at her his eyes narrowing slightly you did good Amir let out a breath she didn't realize she had been holding it was done jrock's Empire had collapsed in a single night his men the ones who weren't in cuffs were either unconscious in the warehouse or dragging themselves away broken and beaten knowing that their time of running these streets was over the few who might try to regroup wouldn't get the chance with their leader gone and the police

finally doing their damn job the gang was done the extortion the threats the violence over for the first time in a long time Royal roots and the rest of the neighborhood could breathe Marcus standing next to her let out a low whistle as he watched Jrock get shoved into the back of a squad car damn feels good seeing that Amira let her arms drop to her sides rolling out her shoulders with a tired exhale about time Marcus glanced at her his brow furrowing slightly as he took in the bruises along her face the dried blood

at the corner of her mouth you good she smirked despite the throbbing pain in her jaw I'll live Marcus chuckled shaking his head you're one scary ass woman you know that damn right she muttered cracking her neck the sergeant turned toward them again his expression unreadable you need a ride home Amira glanced at Royal Roots standing just a few blocks away its neon sign still glowing flickering slightly but still standing just like her nah she said shaking her head I'll walk the sergeant didn't argue he just nodded watching as she turned and started down the

street her steps slow but steady Marcus fell into step beside her the two of them moving through the quiet streets past darkened storefronts past people peeking cautiously through their Windows past a neighborhood that had been living under Jrock rule for far too long tonight that ended tonight Justice had been served and tomorrow tomorrow Amira would wake up walk into her shop and get back to work like she always did because at the end of the day Royal Roots wasn't just a business it was a home a safe haven a piece of the community that no

one no gang no dirty cop no threat could ever take from her again she had fought for it and she had won the morning air was crisp carrying the scent of rain from the night before as Amir stood outside Royal Roots looking up at the worn neon sign that had flickered through so many late nights through so many battles it still buzzed still Shone still stood tall just like her the storefront bore the scars of war the glass had been shattered the wooden Bo boards hastily nailed up from the last attack the sign scratched from

where bricks had once been hurled at it but Royal Roots was still here and today she was going to put it back together Amira took a slow breath stepping forward pushing open the door and stepping inside the damage was worse in the daylight shattered mirrors broken chairs shelves knocked over hair products spilled across the floor in colorful streaks it looked chaotic but Amir didn't see a mess she saw a testament this shop her shop had taken the worst Jrock and his crew had to offer and it was still standing and so was she rolling up

her sleeves she grabbed a broom and got to work the morning passed in steady rhythmic motions sweeping up the broken glass picking up the overturned chairs wiping down the counters the act of cleaning wasn't just about fixing what had been broken it was about reclaiming her space about proving that this place her place belong to no one but her she worked in silence save for the occasional grunt as she dragged heavy furniture back into place then the door creaked open she didn't turn right away still crouched down as she scooped up the remains of a

broken comb from the floor but she felt the presence standing in the doorway hesitant unsure finally she looked up L try the kid stood there shoulders hunched slightly hands tucked into his hoodie Pockets his gaze darting around the shop taking in the wreckage the quiet aftermath of what had happened Amira sat back on her heels wiping the sweat from her brow with the back of her hand you lost Trey shook his head but he still didn't step inside he looked different today not as cocky not as sure of himself he looked like a kid who

had just seen the truth about the life he thought he wanted I saw what happened he muttered finally kicking at the ground with the toe of his sneaker the warehouse Amir nodded standing up slowly brushing dust off her jeans yeah you ran Trey's jaw tightened I ain't no coward Amira studied him for a moment then nodded I know she gestured toward the shop you hear for a reason or just sightseeing he hesitated again before stepping fully inside his hands still shoved into his pockets his shoulders drawn tight like he was bracing for something I'm done

he muttered eyes flickering up to meet hers with them with all of it Amira leaned against the counter arms crossed that's so Trey nodded quickly swallowing hard Jrock he talked big acted like he ran everything like we was Untouchable but last night he shook his head his voice quieter now he ain't Untouchable none of them are he looked at her fully then his voice steady I don't want to end up like that Amir watched him for a long moment the kid had spent months following jrock's crew running errands laughing at the same threats they made

standing in the background while they bullied people like her but last night had shaken something loose in him he had seen how it ended and he wanted out she exhaled tilting her head slightly so what now Trey shuffled his feet his fingers fidgeting inside his hoodie pocket I don't know he admitted but I ain't going back to that life I just I don't know what to do next Amira tapped her fingers against the counter thoughtfully the kid had a lot to learn and walking away from the streets wasn't as easy as just saying it he

was going to need a plan some guidance and a reason to keep moving forward she nodded toward the back of the shop you ever worked a real job before Trey blinked a job Amira repeated something legal something that don't involve standing on Corners acting tough for scraps try hesitated before shaking his head not really Amira smirked then it's about time you start she stepped past him grabbing an extra broom from behind the counter and tossing it toward him he barely caught it his hands fumbling around the handle first lesson she said Crossing her arms again

if you're going to work here you start from the ground up Trey looked down at the broom then back at her his expression torn between confusion and something close to hope you serious he asked dead serious Amira Shrugged ain't going to be easy ain't going to be quick but if you really want out if you really want to do better this is where you start Trey's grip tightened on the Broom he looked around the shop again at the damage at the work still left to be done then then finally he nodded all right he muttered

setting the broom against the floor I'm in Amira smirked nodding approvingly then get to sweeping as Trey started working A Quiet Energy settled over Royal Roots A New Beginning taking shape in the middle of all the destruction Amira grabbed her own broom and got back to work beside him because this shop wasn't just a business it was a symbol of resilience of survival of of never backing down and as the morning sun rose higher spilling golden light through the half boarded Windows she knew one thing for certain Royal Roots had been through hell and it

had come out stronger just like her I hope you enjoyed that story please share it with your friends and subscribe so that you do not miss out on the next one in the meantime I have handpicked two stories for you that I think you will enjoy have a great day