“We all have lessons to learn. But you can’t ever, ever let any n****r get outta hand like that again,” Reggie said. “You keep a sharpened blade on you at all times.”
Jeff felt a strain on his spine from holding his shoulders so erect. It wasn’t even a conscious thing, holding himself straight in the hope that no one would notice the way his hand trembled as he tried to look casual, holding a beer and keeping company with men. For the first time in his life, he actually had what he wanted, and having attained this success, he’d do anything to keep it.
Along with his buddies, Ricky and Matt, Jeff hung out in the sultry basement in Escondido that Saturday, talking, drinking, and playing pool, while the older guys, Reggie and Stephen, guided their education.
Jeff Green had reached the pinn
