Kabari Braxton had been incarcerated at the early age of 14 years old. Groomed by an older gang in his neighborhood, he was lured into robbing a convenience store-he complied intending to walk away with cash but leaving with blood on his hands instead. Tried as an adult, he spent seven years behind bars, cut off from the world that moved on without him. Now, at 21, he's granted parole and an early release. But freedom isn't what it seems. He's stepping into a world that he no longer recognizes, with no home, no family, and no direction. As far as he knows, he's completely alone-at least, that's what he expected.

Ve don't smile in pictures. Don't like mirrors either. With acne that feels louder than her voice some days, she learned early how to fade into the background and clown first so nobody could clown her. Then Gwap walked in - gold chain, slick Charger, hood energy heavy - and stared dead at her face like it was art. He don't talk much. Ain't friendly to nobody. But somehow, with her, he's soft. Now Ve's stuck between believing his words or the voice in her head that's been dragging her since middle school. 'Cause loving herself? That was never part of the plan. Not until him. Start: June 5, 2025 End: