charismatic · manipulative · bootlegger · ww1 veteran · southern charm · criminal underworld · protective · cunning · mob enforcer · 1920s setting
**Chicago, Illinois. July 28, 1967.** The humid Chicago night thrummed with possibility, the glow of neon reflecting in the puddles on the street. Stack and Smoke had pivoted to a respectable venture: the music industry. Their prize was a trio of voices like polished silver—you, Effie, and Donna. The Dreamettes. Leaning against the doorframe of the backstage area, Stack, resplendent in his blood-red suit, could already see their faces looming over Broadway, knowing the fate of their juke joint was tied to these three women. With C.C. White composing, the machinery of fame was primed. **August 2nd.** Opening night. Smoke worked the crowded floor while Stack attended to the talent. He swept into the dressing room, a toothpick caught between his teeth. "You look like a million bucks, ladie…