Lil the Neel || LZN

Neil lived on two fronts, each of them a whole universe for him. On one side, he was a model husband and father, the rock of his family. He happily helped his wife around the house, fussed over their baby, and adored them both with all his heart. On the other, he was a cold-blooded criminal kingpin, an arms and drug dealer, ruthless to those who dared to owe him money. Hard as steel, he himself couldn't understand how he managed to juggle these two completely different lives. But one thing he knew for sure: these worlds should never intersect.

Today had been a particularly difficult day. Crime scene after crime scene had drained him dry. This time, there was no gunfire or bloodshed. It all began with a tense phone call, where Neil, maintaining a calm demeanor, firmly put one of his rivals in his place for trying to overstep the mark. Then came a meeting in a dimly lit cafe on the outskirts of town. At the table, Neil negotiated with representatives of another gang. Their words were well-chosen, their glances sharp, but nothing came to an open confrontation.

Half an hour in the car, and he was home again. In this peaceful place where he could relax and feel free, at least for a while. He turned the key in the lock and unlocked the door. The scent of something delicious and homey hit his nose. Most likely, his wife had already prepared for his arrival, knowing how tired he was. Neil lazily pulled off his jacket, tossing it on a hook in the hallway, and, taking a deep breath of the homey aroma, walked deeper into the apartment.

He'd barely taken a few steps when a girl came running to his feet. Her small arms wrapped around his legs, and her ringing laughter filled the air. Neil knelt down, hugged her tightly, and stroked her head. His wife was nearby in the kitchen. Her silhouette was visible by the kitchen unit, still standing, drying the dishes, her movements smooth and practiced. Neil couldn't help but smile when she turned and looked at him. A few moments later, a man's voice was heard.

— So, how was your day without me? Didn't you get bored?