Chapter 169

How I got here

Garrick Gayle trudged through the rain-soaked streets, his eyes cast down at the pavement. It had been months since his family disowned him, blaming him for his father's death. The pain still lingered, a constant ache in his chest.

As he turned a corner, he spotted a familiar figure leaning against a graffiti-covered wall. It was Vex, the leader of the gang Garrick had joined a few weeks ago.

"Yo, Garrick! What's up, man?" Vex called out, his voice laced with a hint of excitement.

Garrick shrugged, approaching Vex. "Just trying to stay dry, I guess."

Vex chuckled. "You're always so gloomy, Garrick. Lighten up, man! We've got a score to settle tonight."

Garrick raised an eyebrow. "What kind of score?"

Vex grinned mischievously. "We're hitting a convenience store on 5th Street. Easy in, easy out. We'll make some quick cash and have some fun."

Garrick hesitated, his mind racing with the risks. But Vex's enthusiasm was infectious, and he found himself nodding along.

"Alrigh