Before The Throne {The Prequel to Kingdom} {An Eminem Story}

Prologue.

*January 2003*

Monday

5:00 a.m.

Miami, Florida

Alexis Parsons stood in her old bedroom packing her clothes up into her suitcase. She zipped it up and took it down off of the bed. She grabbed both of her suitcases and took them downstairs, placing them by the front door. She double checked the house, making sure she had everything. She went to the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of water from the refrigerator. She heard footsteps coming down the stairs and her mother, Patricia Parsons walked into the kitchen.

"Good morning, sweetheart." She greeted Alexis.

"Morning, mama. Is dad up?" Alexis wondered.

"Yes, he's in the shower. But he should be down any moment." She nodded her head, "You all packed?"

"Yeah, I am."

"I'm so glad you were able to spend some time with us for the holidays. I do miss seeing that sweet face around the house."

"I miss you too, mama. You and dad."

"But I'm grateful you do your absolute best to keep us updated and I'm so proud of you. My little girl is living her dream and doing a great job."

"Thank you, mama. That means a lot." She smiled.

"You sure you can't stand another hour or two? I'm making one of your favorites, cinnamon roll pancakes."

"Ooh, that sounds so tempting, ma. But I need to get outta here. My second album just came out a few days ago and I have some promotions to do back in New York. I'm sorry."

"It's ok, sweetie. I understand you have things to do and you're busy. Whenever you're able to make it back, I'll make you some." Patricia winked at her.

Alexis smiled and hugged her mother tightly. Suddenly, her father, Jeremiah Parsons came into the kitchen.

"Hey, hey. What's all the mush for?" He chuckled.

"I've gotta head back to New York today, dad."

"Ahh, that's right." He sighed.

"Come on, don't be all sad. I'll be back soon, I promise." Alexis promised.

"You know, even though I miss my little girl being here all the time, I am proud of you. Just be careful. You know how the industry can be. Don't sacrifice your integrity or your self respect for anything." He told her.

"Trust me, dad. You don't have to tell me twice. I'm the only child of Trish and Jeremiah Parsons. I think that says enough right there."

They all shared a soft laugh and Jeremiah pulled her in for a hug.

"I love you, baby girl."

"I love you too, dad. I love you both."

Soon, it was time for Alexis to leave and Jeremiah helped her by taking her bags out to her designated car. Alexis walked out with her mother, putting on her jacket and Patricia gave her another hug.

"Be careful out there, ok? But also enjoy yourself and have fun with your career. Me and your dad are always cheering you on." She told her.

"I will, mama. I know you and dad will be at work by the time I get back to New York, but I'll talk to you two later."