Nicole Beharie Photographed By Coty Tarr (2014)

Shid, Dutch and Nasir might as well be together, seeing as how Nami think she can do whatever the fuck she wants. Aaron better get it together before he loses his wife for good.

If his wife leaves him...

He knew the risk and he decided to take the chance by doing her dirt. 

Nasir and Dutch are definitely getting closer and I can only see their bond deepening in chapters to come. 

I Updated Late Last Night, Let's Converse

Nami....girl, the fuck? Now  I think she's dead ass wrong, but tell me how you guys feel? You think Autumn knew what was really up? Dutch and Nas? Chile what's going on there, that nigga is acting like he's catching feelings. Could he be or is he reading too much into it? You tell me, check out Ch.3 pts 1 & 2 below,

Ch. 3 Pt. 1 | Noncompliance

Ch. 3 Pt. 2| Disrespectful Compliance

FOX’s “Sleepy Hollow” Los Angeles Special Screening And Q&A

I'm loving this already. Beau seems sincere but in a weird way, like he has some ulterior motive lol. Nami has a lot of heart to deal with that BS though. I love your approach to the story. Keep it up!

I hope you love it as much as I love yours cause YG is my nigga, my nigga. Beau really does mean well and does want to help Dutch, but I'd be lying if I told you he didn't have some shit up his sleeve. Nami is a lil thug I hope she stays strong though because she definitely has some BS to deal with. 

Prologue: Make It Home

Dutchess

E 101st & 3rd Ave

2:56 a.m

“Where you at?” Nami asked on the other line. Her voice was raspy and I could tell she was fighting sleep.

“I’m almost home, I just made my last run and I’m a few blocks away I’ll be there in no time babe.”

“Well shit, pedal faster I’m about to heat up this cheesecake and I already set up The Golden Girls on Netflix.” She said with urgency.

“Who heats up cheesecake? Country bumpkin ass” I chuckled as I rode through the avenues completely oblivious to my city around me. I had one mission in mind; get to my bed in record time. I’ve been running without good sleep for two weeks and I’m ready to crash. The thought of my bed caused me to pedal a bit harder.

“I do!” She said giggled, “Don’t try me.” She said her thick Memphis accent coming through.

“Alright, alright let me go so I can pay attention,” I said with all seriousness.

“Gotchu see you soon baby.” She said hanging up as I came up to a red light I slowed my pedaling to a halt. 

Taking time to look at the city around me. So alive and active, bodies shifting quickly across the street trying to get to the other side before the red hand popped up. The taxi cab next to me so in a hurry for the light to change to get to his next fare. Even at such a late hour everyone was in such a hurry and had somewhere to be.

I saw an opening and I took it, having a bike as opposed to a car makes maneuvering through NY traffic a breeze. Us bike riders have our own community, albeit underground it’s a community nonetheless.  We’ve carved out our own lane in traffic it’s the quickest way to get around the city completely undetected. Need something delivered?

My crew or I can have it delivered to wherever you need it to go in a time friendly and discreet manner. You wouldn’t believe the type of shit have delivered and how much they’ll pay just to have it brought to them in the fashion that we bring it. Business has been great, quite lucrative and we’ve managed to stay below the radar for years. We took the streets by storm and we did it in an unconventional manner.

 I increased my speed as I pedaled through past the red light and instantly saw a blaring set of headlights coming towards me from my right side. There was no was I could avoid them, whoever was behind the wheel was swerving between lanes recklessly. They were coming too fast. I saw them, but it was like they didn’t see me and had no intentions of slowing down.

Beau

I looked out the passenger window as Harlem whipped past me in a flash. Street signs began to blur with red lights. Intersections and crosswalks all looked the same. This nigga had lead in his foot and liquor in his veins.

“Yo Boogz son chill! You keep this shit up and you’re either gonna hurt us or someone else!” I yelled over A$AP F3RG blaring through the speakers while clinging to the dashboard as he swerved through lanes. I could here the other drivers on the road honking their horns around us.

“Relax!” he cackled, “I got this, you know I’m the MCLAREN KING NIGGA!!!” He yelled at the top of his lungs and pushed his foot on the gas pedal. “I whip shit like this on the regular” he slurred.

“Bullshit! I just got this shit today you whip Fiats on a regular nigga. Now slow down!”  He was two seconds away from kissing a tree or a lamppost, I knew I shouldn’t have let him drive my shit, my new shit. My dude has been going through some shit lately so I thought maybe letting him take the whip out for a bit would lift his spirits. It wasn’t supposed to turn out this way, but isn’t that how it always works out when some shit is about to go down?

“You just sit back and enjoy the ride son,” He said as he hiccupped from the Henny he had been sipping earlier “I got you” he said patting my shoulder confidently. Why do drunk niggas always swear they got everything under control.

“I hear you son I really do, but you’re doing 120 on the dash right now. You need to slow down.” I said as calmly as possibly, almost reasoning with him. Seeing that the light up ahead was turning yellow I figured he’d slow down and I could talk him into letting me drive. For a hot second I almost got through to him.

“How much you wanna bet I can make it before the light turns red?” He turned and looked at me with blood shot red eyes and an impish grin. Before I could respond he floored it, throwing my body back into my seat. I saw a figure moving up ahead, but I didn’t want to believe that it was in the directly in front of our lane.

“YO BOOGZ CHILL MY NIGGA YOU GONNA HIT THE BIKE?!” I yelled trying to get him to slow down.

“What?” He said turning his head for a second. 

Moments later I felt the airbag smashing into my face. Signaling the worst, what has my nigga just done.

Ch. 5 Pt. 2 | Damn, It's Like That?

Beau

Cheri’s House

8:14 p.m.

I’ve never had someone look at me with so much hatred and malice before until I met this man who I now know to be Nasir. And it’s crazy because it’s misguided hatred; I wasn’t the one driving the car nor was I the one to give Riley the alcohol. He’s ready to go to war with the wrong one.

 I watched his every move, mannerism and gesture, as he got ready to charge at me. This nigga got me fucked up, I didn’t earn my Golden Gloves and spend countless hours training to get my ass whooped by some cornball ass nigga. He thought he was big jumping me at the hospital, but fuck it we can get even now.

 Before either of us could swing I heard her voice firmly speak up,

“Yo I swear to God if either one of y’all swing I’m bodying both of y’all and ya mans too,” she said coldly and calmly making everybody stop dead in their tracks.She had our undivided attention and she didn’t have to raise her voice or make a scene to get it.

 Hearing her thick Brooklyn accent flow effortlessly along with the bass added in her voice had me ready to get her up out that chair.

A woman that isn’t afraid to speak up when need be is sexy and by the look radiating in eyes she knew the power she had.

“You have no plausible reason to want to scrap with him other than being in your feelings?” she looked at him with a raised eyebrow. I analyzed her every move and mentally stored away everything she said.

“You serious right na?!” Nas growled at her.

He was literally fuming, “This nigga took so much from you, from everyone around you and I’m not bout to have him up in my house, eating my shit up and his mans damn sure ain’t bout to be fucking with my sister,” he spat.

 She stared at him for a good two minutes before she did the last thing any of us expected her to do. She laughed, laughed right in his face. She laughed so hard her side hurt and tears came to her eyes.

“Fuck is so funny Dutch!” he said genuinely upset I could even see a hit on the hurt written on his face.

She wiped her eyes, “You, because clearly you have lost your cotton picking ass mind if you think you’re gonna stand here and tell me what has been taken from me,” she growled.

“You damn right something was taken from me, but he wasn’t necessarily the one who took it. You’re stupid ass can’t even get the full story because you’re so blinded by anger that you can’t even see who’s really at fault,” she giving Riley her full attention.

 Her glare was so intense he immediately dropped his eyes from contact. He looked like a scared child being put on trial. Unfortunately for him, Dutchess was the only judge and jury for his case.

“I’m well aware of what was taken from me and no mothafucka in this room can tell me otherwise. I need to know why it was taken and there are only two people in this room that can give me those answers. I’ll be damned if you lose your black ass mind and end up doing something stupid, yet” she added with a beautiful, mischievous smile. Her filthy mouth turned me on; baby girl could cuss like a sailor and still be sexy.

 “Do you know what it’s like to have the one you love act like you don’t exist?!” she continued her rant.

 “Huh?! Got mothafuckas looking at me like I’m a fucking leper or some cripple! Gotta fucking rely on you to do simple shit for me like wash my ass?! Do you have any idea how fucking embarrassing that shit is?

Never in my life have I ever needed to rely on anything or anyone and now look at me!” she barked dejected and hurt.

“Now get your shit together AK and Autumn are going to be here any minute, I don’t need both of y’all acting like y’all have no sense,” she said somewhat dismissing him. He looked at her like she was crazy.

 He wanted to fuck her up so bad, I could see it, she could see it, but what I didn’t see was fear. His body language was telling us that he wanted to rip her apart piece-by-piece by her eyes read “Nigga please try it”. She wasn’t backing down from his hard stare.

 “Whateva man,” he huffed out salty as fuck and went into another room slamming the door shut. So hard that the doorframe rattled making Cheri jump.

 I watched her let out a deep breath, probably one she had been holding for sometime. She looked down before raising her head and shot me a beautiful apologetic smile.

 I was taken back by everything that transpired and this woman before me, I never expected her to hold me down and fully understand that I wasn’t responsible for putting the wheelchair, but seeing her genuinely smile meant everything to me. I couldn’t ask for more.

 She didn’t have to say anything more to me because I knew from then that she somewhat understood my position. I couldn’t help but return my own toothy grin.

 “I’m gonna go check on him, Dutch you okay out here for a sec?” Cheri asked flustered as she walked towards his room. I feel like shit for ruining her dinner before it even got started.

 “Yeah, I’ll be fine” she said never taking her eyes off Riley.

 Since we got here for some reason she hasn’t taken her eyes off him. It’s like she instantly knew he was the driver and once it was confirmed she locked on to her target. He was prey and she was prepared to feed. It was a little unsettling.

 She studied his movements and seemed to enjoy watching him falter under her microscope. 

“So how’s the recovery process?” Jay asked Dutchess trying to make small talk to lighten the mood.

 “I’m curious what were you drinking that night?” she kept her focus on Riley completely disregarding Jay’s question and his presence.

 “Damn, coldblooded," I heard him mumble and I shook my head, chuckling. Dutchess has made it very clear that she had no problems holding her own.

 “151 and Henny,” Riley said bluntly, coldly even. I could tell all the attention on him had him edge. He had a bad habit of getting out of pocket and saying slick shit, but I can tell he’s met his match with Dutch.

 She solemnly nodded her head letting what he said register in her mind. She wanted answers and I can tell we’re not leaving until she gets them.

 “Was it worth it?” she asked Riley.

 He scrunched up his face perplexed, “What?”

“You ruined my fucking life you little piece of shit! You damn near took everything from me, but couldn’t take my life! You’re selfish as fuck and karma is a bitch. Not only did you put my life in the crosshairs of death, but you put two other lives in danger being a bitch,” she barked at him only for him to cower away.

“I honestly hope and pray to God that you get everything coming to your punk ass because I don’t believe that you genuinely had a reason to be so careless with our lives,” she pointed to herself and me.

 “I think that you’re selfish, narcissistic asshole who needs to learn the value of life and it’s true meaning because you’re a lost soul.

 So when I asked you if it was worth it? And you had that dumb ass look on your face you gave me all the confirmation I needed. I hope you rot,” she said harshly and blunt shocking us all.

Before he could respond she rolled herself into the kitchen leaving us to consume her words and commit them to memory. 

 Dutch

At the dinner table

9:00 p.m.

By the time AK, Autumn and Cheri’s homegirl, Lauryn arrived Nas dragged his sorry out his room, but he has yet to look my way or address me and to be honest I’m glad he hasn’t I don’t have the time or energy to put up with his piss ass attitude. I completely understand the concern he’s feeling. Shit I’m scared too.

Riley excused himself after I ripped him a new asshole, he called himself a cab and dipped out before we even had a chance to say grace. But I can guarantee we’ll cross paths again.

 What if he has no plausible explanation though? What if he was just driving drunk for the thrill and I just happened to get hit because of his careless and self-centered nature?

 “Ayo Dutch you heard me?” I heard AK ask me snapping me from my thoughts.

 “Nah I didn’t actually, wassup?” I said nodding my head at Nas indicating that he had put enough food on my plate and I was good. As much as I can’t stand him he did his thing with these oxtails, would have thought his country bumpkin ass was West Indian or some shit. 

“I asked if you seen Nami lately?” he asked curiously and my body tensed up. Just hearing her name brought butterflies to my stomach and my head began to swirl. And effect only she seemed to have.

“Nope, she was over earlier this week to drop off some clothes and hygiene supplies, but other than that no. She said that Aaron has been asking her to make runs at crazy hours so she hasn’t really had much time for herself,” I said as I spooned some rice into my mouth.

I heard Cheri’s friend scoff before shoveling an oxtail in her mouth, “Lauryn, right?” I said catching onto her shady antics.

 “Yeah,” she said plastering a fake ass smile on her face.

 “You seem like you have something to say or have a lot on your mind, do you know Nami?” I asked giving her my full attention. I could feel Nas’ stare damn near burning a hole into the side of my face.

 Beau and Jay look confused as hell. Cheri on the other hand she looked pissed, like her friend spilled the beans and shit was about to hit the fan.

“Nah I don’t know her personally, but I met her when she came into the hospital two weeks ago,” she said matter of factly. She knew she hit a nerve.

Why would she be in the hospital, is she okay? Did something happen? My mind was on a thousand, Nami wouldn’t keep something like that from me, but it seems like I don’t know her anymore.

“Hospital? Why would she be there?” I said trying to down play my curiosity.

“Lauryn can I uh, talk to you in the kitchen real quick?” Cheri interjected before she could respond. I could tell whatever it was Cheri knew and had known for two weeks now.

“Nah fuck that one of y’all better start fucking talking I know that much,” I threatened as I threw my napkin on my plate. My appetite now gone.

 Cheri looked at me with eyes full of pity and regret. Lauryn just looked confused and spaced out.

 “She came in for a pregnancy test. She should be about…14 weeks now,” Lauryn said as she counted the weeks on her fingers making sure she was accurate.

 That shit literally took all the wind out of my sail. Pregnant? Nah it can’t be, not my baby. Having a baby? Damn, it’s like that?

 “Dutch….Dutch…DUTCHESS!” Cheri said snapping her fingers in my face.

“Don’t say nothing to me,” I barked at her.

 My face instantly became to sour, when I realized she knew all this time and had me looking like a fucking fool. “You knew didn’t you?”

 She sighed and nodded her head, “Fuck you Cheri, that’s messed up all this time you knew she was playing me, but you just let me go looking for love in the wrong fucking places. That’s foul son.”

“Dutch I don’t think now is the time to discuss this, I really didn’t want you to find out this way. I wanted Nami to be the one to tell you her dirty secret. It wasn’t my place or anyone else’s for that matter,” she pleaded looking around at everyone at the table mugging Lauryn.

"I didn't want to be the one to hurt you."

When I looked around everyone’s face read concern. But fuck that I don’t need their concern. As right as she was forgiveness wasn’t something I could give her.

 “Yeah, well you succeeded. Like I said, Fuck you Cheri,” I coldly spat before rolling myself away from the table my mind full of emotions and my chest tight from the pain I felt

Nasir

10:45 p.m.

I can’t front both those niggas Beau and Jay ain’t too bad, I admit it I prejudged them.

 But their mans though once I see him it’s on sight. Now that they both clarified what happened and the fact that Beau just happened to be in the wrong car at the wrong time I kinda feel like shit for jumping the nigga.

“Damn son, Cheri dropped a bomb my nigga,” AK said taking a long drag from the blunt. After those niggas and Cheri’s bumb ass friend left we decided to roll up. Autumn caught the itis and fell asleep in the room Cheri’s room.

 She felt like shit keeping that secret so she decided to go spend a night at her nigga house for the night. Talkin’ bout she can’t face Dutch, but she could face her when she knew that foul ass secret. Fuck outta hea’ man.

 “I know nigga and something is telling me that it’s that nigga A’s baby,” I said taking the blunt from him and letting all of the interactions between A and Nami replay in my mind.

 I knew the nigga was foul, but I also know he got a wife and kids at home. I never thought he would get himself caught up like that. I also know in my heart that Nami is a trick ass bitch, but I put my feelings to the side for Dutch’s sake.

 All bets are off na.

 Dutch has always looked out for him and held him down; they have literally made millions together over the years. Why fuck up your business relations and money over some pussy?

 This shit is low and dumb even for his greedy ass. I know Dutch is going to get money regardless because she’s been in the business longer and has more connects. Why cut off the hand that helps feed you and your family?

 “Why you say that son?” AK asked sparking up another blunt, I chuckled because we haven’t even finished the one in rotation.

 “About a month ago, just after the accident we were at Dutch’s crib Nami ran out saying she had to make a run, but it didn’t make sense. Your girl just got in car accident and is hella fucked up yet you’re finding a way to make runs instead of being by her side?” I stated as I went through my mental rolodex.

“Yeah my nigga, but that don’t mean it’s A’s though?”

“But check it that night I brought Dutch to the crib on our way to the car I pepped Nami hopping out of a black truck, Aaron’s truck. When I honked the horn at her she was shook. Ain’t nobody out at those hours unless they hoein’ or partyin’,” I told him and he threw his head back laughing.

“You a fool man, but yo I’m about to go carry Autumn’s greedy ass home, but we should link up with that nigga A and get his side of the story,” he said and I nodded my head.

“Iigh bet, but if the nigga gets outta pocket I’m hooking his shit,” I told him with no remorse him heart.

 If it is his baby than he’s flaw as fuck and I have no business breaking bread with a greasy nigga like dat.

 __

“Bae?” I said cautiously walking into my room.

After our blow up earlier and then the bomb dropped on her I was a little uneasy going into the situation.

 When she didn’t respond I peeped her sitting in her chair staring out at the city below, spaced out. She looked so defeated when my eyes met hers, my heart damn near shattered into a billion pieces. She looked worn and disheveled.

 Her beautiful brown skin stained with dry tears,

 Her nose rosy red,

 Those light brown orbs that I’ve grown to love staring into, normally so full of life are now dull, dark and lifeless. They looked like dark empty pits void and incapable of feeling and it scared me.

“Hey, “ she said weakly before dropping her head in shame.

I was by her side in an instant; I didn’t care about our blow up earlier or Nami’s foul ass. She couldn't handle a woman like Dutch anyway. My baby needed me and that’s all that matters at this point.

 I didn’t know what to say or what I could do to pacify the situation because there was no way that I could possibly rectify it at this point. The damage was already done.

“Baby you wanna take a bath? The cuddle up for some good sleep,” I asked as I stroked her cheek with my thumb.

 She swiftly nodded her head never bringing her eyes up to meet mine; I scooped her up and held her close. The connection was what she needed because her body instantly melted into mine nuzzling her face into my neck.

 I sat her in her chair; we kept a chair in the tub just to make her shower process easier. I even had my plumber come by and install a special shower head just for her to make sure she was as comfortable as possible.

 I helped her slip out her clothes and tossed them somewhere in the bathroom. I lifted her so she could ease out of her thong before gingerly sitting her back down.

“Your ribs are healing nicely,” I commented as I carefully removed the bandage from around her torso examining the skin before lightly kissing the area making her jump then sigh.

She just nodded her head not bothering to look at me as she toyed with her fingernails, something she did when nervous.

I put on Pandora to lighten the mood a bit, I could tell that her mind was going into overdrive right na and I just wanted to soothe her in an any way.

I wet her body from her head down and her body instantly began to relax as she let out a ragged sigh.

I massaged shampoo into her scalp taking my time to really let my fingers go to work. I wanted to tonight to really be about her and put her body at ease. If I could absorb any of her pain or heartache I’d gladly take it.

“You want to talk about it?” I cautiously asked her.

“Not yet, I haven’t processed it all myself. I don’t know how I’m supposed to feel about it,” she said finally making eye contact. I could see the torment in her eyes and I felt something I can’t explain.

I nodded my head, continuing my ministrations on her scalp as I began to rinse the shampoo from her hair watching it run down her back. She tilted her head back with her eyes closed to assist me.

I brought the shower head and began to wet the rest of her body. I watched the water splash and pool around her plump thighs and felt my dick twitch. Nami really had to be bat shit crazy to let such a beautiful specimen go.

It was like God himself took the sweetest, richest chocolate he could find and carefully wrapped her body in it. He really took his time with her, I couldn’t see a flaw on her body. Everything about her sat just right, how could someone in their right mind let this go?

“Let me make you feel better for a little while.”

I took a chance and moved the shower head directly between her thighs. Her eyes shot open and her hand moved on top of mine. Once I felt the warmth between her thighs there was no way I was moving my hand, my body wouldn’t allow it. It was almost intoxicating.

 “Naaass” her breath came out ragged and choppy as I started moving the shower head in a slow circular motion making sure the water flow was in direct contact with her clit at all times.

“Talk ta me, wassup babe?” I asked her, my eyes glued to her body watching  everything it was telling me do.

 “Shiiit” she gripped my hand like a vice. I saw lust, confusion and apprehension in her eyes as shit bit down on her bottom lip to stifle her voice.

“Tell me what you want,” I needed to hear her.

 As soon as my lips came into contact with warm, wet skin her head dropped back and a low, sultry moan involuntarily left her lips. And my dick instantly came to full attention.

I took my time kissing up her shoulder and chest taking the time to kiss in between her chest underneath her soft, plentiful breast before latching my mouth onto her nipple suckling it. You would have thought her breast was giving me some milk.

She gave in and her hand found the back of my head massaging my curls egging me on. I adjusted the shower head increasing the pace of my motions. Her grip of my hair instantly tightened and her moans got deeper when she felt the water flow intensify.

I kissed in between her breast making sure to leave my mark every place my lips met. I latched my lips onto her other nipple and instantly knew this was my favorite. It was a bit smaller than the other and fit perfectly in my mouth.

I let my tongue toy with the tip of her nipple making her squirm. Her legs began to twitch and she tried pulling my hand away.

“That’s that spot?” I asked her making my way up her collarbone. I felt her whole body begin to shake underneath me.

It was like her collarbone and clit were connected. The strong flow pumping out of the shower head and my lips licking off the water on her body became too much.

She caught me completely off guard when I felt her grip my head and bring my face to hers. When her soft, plump lips met mine, my mind went blank and my whole body became numb.

I recuperated and kissed her with all the need and want my body could produce. At this moment I needed her to need me, she matched my fervor and introduced her tongue to my mouth.

“Cum for me,” I said against her lips.

She shook her head no.

I smirked against her lips, “Pleease?” I coaxed letting my raspy voice draw out.

She shook her head no again. Trying to hold out on giving me what I wanted.

“Okay,” I simply said while adjusting the shower head to the highest setting. I pulled the hair at the nape of her neck and began to savor every inch of her mouth.

She was like putty in my hands once her orgasm finally hit her. Her hips began to roll and whine in the same motion of my hand. Her hips and my hand were in perfect synchronization working together to get her body to that peak.

 She tried to pull away, but I held her close feeling her shake and twitch in my arms succumbing to everything I was giving her.

 Once she came down from her high her whole body went limp in my arms, she would have teetered off the chair if my body weren’t here supporting her frame.

“You okay?” I softly asked her as I continued lightly kissing her body making sure that no part of her that I could kiss went unkissed while bringing the showerhead away from her now sensitive area.

She nodded her head then bringing her lips to mine. I don’t think I could ever get tired of this. Her lips fit mine perfectly and her mouth was sweet. A deadly combination, now I don’t think I can stop kissing her.

“Bae…let…me…wash…ya,” I said in between pecks to her lips.

She nodded, but didn’t move away and I laughed.

“I like your lips,” she finally said pulling away to let me continue washing her body.

“Yeah?” I said chuckling, “Well I like you.”

 I told her truthfully looking at her to make sure she heard and understood me clearly.

“Maybe, I like you too” she said shyly looking down, playing with her nails.

I laughed at how cute she could be. One minute she’s ready to box with tha god, the next she’s this shy, innocent beautiful person before me.

 “I can take that,” I said turning off the showerhead and preparing the towel for her.

 Gingerly patting her body dry, apply fresh bandages to her torso then wrapping towel around her head, “You ready?” I asked her before lifting her body into mine carrying into my room.

I felt her soft lips kissing my chest and neck.

Everywhere her lips touched the skin began to tingle it was addicting, exhilarating even.

 I laid her on her side and went to go get her night clothes when she reached to grab my hand, “No, I’m sleeping in just a towel tonight. I don’t feel like wearing clothes.”

 I nodded and kneeled on her side, ”Babe I’mma go hop in tha shower real quick, I know you haven’t been sleeping. Try and get some. I’ll be right back,” I said before kissing her forehead, cheek and finally lingering on her full lips.

"We can figure out everything else in the mornin'."

 “Okay,” she said tirelessly yawning.

Before I could even get out of the room I could hear her light snores behind me and I chuckled to myself as I turned off the light.

I walked into the kitchen to wrap up any leftovers and clear any dishes, but I kept hearing this annoying ass buzzin’ coming from the kitchen table. Dutch’s phone.

 I wasn’t trying to be nosey…okay; yeah I was trying to be nosey. When I saw the name “That Boy,” pop up I got curious. And it wasn’t like I was unlocking her phone because the message popped up clear as day on the screen. So TECHNICALLY this is fair game.

             From That Boy:

Hey, I had no idea tonight was going to turn out how it did. I’m really sorry if I added to any of the stress you’re already feeling. That wasn’t my intention. I was wondering if you wanted to meet up at Lotus Blue for lunch tomorrow? Chinese on me =).

-B 

I immediately put two and two together. That little fuck! Just when I thought the lil’ nigga was cool here he go trying to fuck my shit up. Now that I can’t have.

Just started reading it. I like it already. Next update?

Thanks love, I’ll more than likely be updating tonight ^.^

Ch. 5 pt. 1| Want To Come Over?

Cheri

Fort Tilden Beach

3:02 a.m.

*2 weeks later*

 I took a deep pull of the Raspberry Kush and let it hit me. The whole ambiance got me feeling nice. The sound of Lauryn riding the beat and the waves crashing against the sand was just what I needed right now.

 “Why you smoke so much?” I heard his deep voice ask full of intrigue and curiosity.

 I completely forget he was sitting there once we got here we made small talk, but when I decided to roll up he got quiet. I asked him if he wanted to burn and he declined.

“Does it bother you?” I asked matching his tone.

“How you gon’ answer a question wit a question?” he side eyed.

“Does it?”

 “Nah you just too pretty for all that,” he said like he was really saying something.

 I smirked at him and turned my attention back to the waves crashing against the sand.  We’ve been kicking it for about a month now and it’s cool for what it is.

In the short time that I’ve known Jay I’ve come to realize that he has no filter. The first thing that comes to his mind is what comes out his mouth first.

I can’t lie most of the time this nigga is as basic as they come, but just when I’m ready to ditch him he ceases to surprise me.

“So you not gon’ answer me?”

“My business is my business and yours is yours. If it doesn’t bother you then we shouldn’t have any problems. I appreciate your inquisition though.”

He looked at me like I was crazy, “Deadass?” 

“Yeah.”

 “Coldblooded man,” he chuckled and shook his head.

 I looked out at the waves and began to get lost in thought.

 “So you said it’s only you and your older brother?” he asked once again.

 I let out a deep sigh; “Yeah it’s been just us since I was 13 and he was 16. Nas has always and will be everything to me. His lemon head ass gets on my nerves most of the time, but I wouldn’t be who I am today without.”

 He nodded his head taking in what I said.

 I didn’t want to think about Nas at the moment, but his words found their way back into my head.

**Hours ago**

“Where ya been running off too lately?” he asked as he made his way around the kitchen making dinner for Dutch and himself. I sat on the counter watching him shuffle around making sure everything was perfect.

Having Dutch here has completely brought out a different side of him. I haven’t seen him smile this much. I can’t lie and say I’m not happy just seeing him happy. Dutch got this nigga doing all kind of shit, she told him she wanted to go to the aquarium. You would think he’d take her to Coney Island like a normal person would right?

No, this fool made me help him plan a whole weekend for him and Dutch to go to Georgia aquarium because he said he wanted her to have the best. I’ve never seen him put so much effort into making someone smile. He went all out getting them the best suite, going out to the best restaurants, going shopping the whole nine.

It’s also probably to keep her mind off Nami. That bitch ain’t shit and Dutch just can’t see that.

I honestly feel bad, Dutch calls and text, but they go unanswered or they’re cryptic. Then when she comes over it’s solely to bring clothes. I asked Dutch to let me drag her ass one time, but she told me to chill.

I have my reasons to drag that grimey bitch and I just need Dutch to see for herself how dirty that hoe really is.

 It’s crazy though because Nas is slowly taking her mind off Nami and I don’t even think Dutch realizes that.

 “I’m going to hang out with my homeboy Jay, we’ve been kicking it for about a month now,” I told him honestly.

He nodded his head taking in what I said while checking his greens.

“So when do I get to meet tha nigga?” he asked not distracting himself from his greens adjusting the heat.

Shit I knew this was coming sooner or later, but not this fast, “Soon Nas.”

“Soon like…tomorrow night for dinner,” he said with finality to his tone. Meaning it wasn’t up for much discussion, his mind was made up he wanted Jay over tonight.

“Dammit Nasir can’t that decision be my own?! What if I’m not ready for you to meet’em yet?” I said letting out an exasperated sigh hopping off the counter.

“What if you invited some of your girls over and he brought some of his boys would that be better for you?” I heard Dutch’s soft voice interject before Nas could respond. I didn’t even hear her come in, but I’m glad she did. Having another female around to be an ally makes dealing with Nas much easier.

“This way it won’t be too tense we can eat dinner and maybe watch some movies. After dinner if you don’t want to stay you guys can go do something else. You’re grown,” she continued on while Nas looked at her like she had eight eyes.

“Deal!” I enthusiastically agreed.

“Ha! Then it’s settled,” she said rolling her wheelchair over to Nas.

“But,” he began.

“Sorry I’m on my way out, Jay and I are going to catch a movie,” I took that as my cue to make an exit before he could protest.

“What you over there thinking about?” Jay asked breaking me from my thoughts.

“You want to come over my place tomorrow night? My brother wants to me meet you. You can bring your boys since some of my homegirls are coming over too,” I blurted out.

He looked at me puzzled before breaking out into a toothy grin, “I’d love to.”

I let out a deep sigh. Now that the easy part is over, I hope all goes well.

Dutchess

Nas’ bed

The next day

Lying in bed all day isn’t supposed to feel so good especially when it’s not my bed. I haven’t felt this much relaxation  in…ever? To make matters worse I feel way to comfortable lying next to someone who isn’t Nami. Granted it’s Nas, one of my best friends, but still he’s not mine and I’m not his.

But to be honest Nami hasn’t even acted like I’m hers. Ever since the accident she’s been distant. Treating me like I’m either infected or a piece of glass. There’s no middle ground with her. I get it my current condition is a transition, but my legs won’t always be broken.

 “Bae what ya thinking about?” Nas said tightening his grip on my waist sliding my body closer to his and putting his face in the back of my neck.

Here he goes with this name-calling business again ignoring him, “is there something wrong with me?”

 His head shot up to examine my face, “Nah baby why ya ask dat?” he said stroking my cheek with his thumb.

 I sighed “because Nami is acting like I don’t mean anything to her. I’ve been basically living with you and Cheri for a month now. I’m truly grateful for everything you’ve done for me, but shouldn’t Nami be the one doing all this?” I asked looking him in he eyes.

He smiled and nodded his head, “she absolutely should, but that's her choice bae. If she can’t see how important your health is and doesn’t want to be there for you during every step of your recovery than maybe she’s not worth it and doesn’t care like she says she does.”

 Even though it’s the truth it doesn’t hurt any less. My eyes began to tear up and my lip started quivering.

“Nah bae don’t waste one tear for her, you’re where you’re supposed to be,” he said pulling my body close to him kissing away tears as they fell.

 I nodded my head and let him hold me. I didn’t want to argue or fight I craved comfort and he was giving just what I needed. Feeling him rub circles on my back and his Guilty by Gucci cologne invading my nostrils put my body at ease almost instantly.

“Nas! Jay and them are gonna be here any minute you want me to help you start dinner?” Cheri asked as she burst through his door.

 “Oh shit, ma fault,” she said once she saw the scene before her.

He sucked his teeth, “Dammit C, you don’t knock? I could have been tongue or balls deep in bae.”

 My face read one of embarrassment and shock, hers was one of disgust

 “Uh ew nigga and no, you know damn well my boo ain’t giving you no play so…back to dinner nigga. What’s it gon’ be?” she asked putting her hands on her thick hips making me giggle.

 “Oh so that’s funny?” he said turning his attention back to me. I couldn’t help but laugh at his seriousness. My giggles only intensified when he began tickling me.

 “Stop! GO COOK!” I said in between giggles while trying my best to scoot away.

 “Y’all are too cute,” Cheri said giving an all too knowing look as she examined our exchange. I could only blush and turn my face into his neck making them both laugh.

 “Bae what ya want ta eat?” Nas asked bringing his mouth close to my ear. Hearing his deep voice all in my ear got me feeling a way.

 “Uhh umm I-I” I stuttered and he let out a hearty laugh.

 Cheri rolled her eyes, “I’ll be in the kitchen, y’all niggas get it together,” she said as she walked out.

“Nah seriously bae what ya want ta eat?” he said poking my side to get my full attention.

 “Ummmm I want oxtails,” I said absentmindedly.

 “That’s all you want Phatty?” He side eyed me.

 “Nah gimme the works, go all out,” I said giving him a full smile, that he returned.

 “Iigh just because it’s you. I’m do it up bae,” he pecked my cheek and made his was out of bed.

 I couldn’t help by smile, “why have you always been so good to me?” I blurted out and slapped my hand over my mouth once I realized I said it out loud.

 In all of the years that I’ve known him, he’s always found a way to go above and beyond just to make me smile. Often times I’ve questioned how he really feels.

 He smirked “because I love seeing you smile. You’re a great person and a good woman you really do deserve the best. So while you’re with me I plan on giving you just that and then some.”

 He said before making his way into his closet to throw on some clothes leaving me to think about what he said.

 He ceases to amaze me.

 “Bae, Cheri and I gonna run to the store to pick up some more food. I told Autumn and A.K. to come over too and you know them niggas can eat and take food home, you want me to bring anything back?” he asked sweetly as he came and sat on “my side” of the bed.

 “Can you bring me the pink pack of Skittles please?” I asked giddily.

 “Yeah Phatty I gotchu, anything you want,” he chuckled bending his head to kiss the tip of my nose then my forehead before grabbing his keys.

 “We’ll be back soon bae,” he said as he left.

 Seeing him leave made me feel lonely. Being damn near bed ridden changes a person.

I’ve always been someone notorious for being independent now that I’m forced to rely on others I crave company and companionship.

 Having Nas so close is making me question just how I feel for him. Should I?

 I heard my phone vibrating from the nightstand and I instantly reached over to it figuring it was either Nami or Nas.

 From This Nigga Here:

            Hey, are you okay? How are you feeling?

 Sighing I began to type.

 To This Nigga Here:

            Yeah I’m straight. Thanks for asking.

 From This Nigga Here:

            =D

 I couldn’t help but smile at enthusiasm. Beau and I aren’t on speaking terms, but I don’t ignore him either. He’s persistent as fuck.  I just have to come around to him on my own terms.

Jay

En route to Cheri’s Crib

8:00 p.m.

 “Y’all niggas bet not embarrass me,” I said to Beau and Boogz giving them the speech my moms always used to give me when we went places as a child.

 “Nigga kill all that noise, we got you,” Boogz said waving me off as he blew smoke out the backseat window.

 “Nigga put the blunt out, I don’t need to be meeting her bro for the first time and you high as a kite. Kill that shit,” I said sternly.

 He mumbled something, but put it out tho.

 “You really feeling shorty huh?” Beau said getting my attention.

 As soon as I start thinking about Cheri I can’t help, but smile. She got a nigga open.

 “Yeah,” I grinned and nodded my head. He chuckled and did the same.

 “Niiiggaa you whipped!! Lil’ mama got ya black ass open as fuck” Boogz said with an ugly cackle. I swear I can’t take this nigga nowhere man.

“Yeah whatever nigga all I know is you better not fuck this up for me. I won’t hesitate to fuck you up if need be.”

 I shot Cheri a text telling her we’re looking for parking and she immediately responded saying we could park in their building garage in the guest spot and that she’s be down to open the lobby door for us.

__

 “Hey I’m glad you made it,” she said hugging me and kissing my cheek. Having her thick body up against mine made my dick hard.

I pulled back cutting the hug short. I’m not trying to meet her brother with hard wood, but Lil’ mama was looking right tonight I can’t even hold you.

 “This is Beau and Riley,” I said introducing them. Beau waved while Riley sucked his teeth.

 “You can call me Boogz tho,” he interjected making Cheri let out a genuine laugh. 

 “Like Boogers?” she said in between laughs and giggles making Beau and I die with laughter with her while Boogz bit his tongue and mean mugged her.

 “I like her already,” Beau said wiping his eyes.

 “Come on let’s go upstairs,” she finally said.

 “I hope y’all like oxtails with peas and rice my brother’s girl, I mean best friend picked the meal tonight so he went in,” she said as we got in the elevator.

 “Sounds good,” we all said. I can’t wait for dinner now, shit sound good as fuck.

 “You didn’t say your bro had a girl,” I spoke up a little puzzled. She left that part out.

 “She’s not his girl, more like his best friend. She was hit by a drunk driver about a month ago, the same day I met you at the hospital actually. He’s been looking after her ever since,” she said nonchalantly.

 I instantly felt the mood shift. I know for a fact Boogz and Beau are thinking the exact same thing as I was. Could it be her? I know that Cheri helped me by getting her number, but does she actually know Dutchess?

 “Come on,” Cheri said from outside the elevator. Apparently none of us heard the doors open and we were all just stuck in the elevator deep in thought.

 “My fault,” I said walking out the elevator with them behind me.

 “Fuck you doin’ here?!” I heard a light skin dude bark at Beau as soon as we walked into the apartment.

 We all looked confused because he was literally seething with anger. It was as if someone bumped into the DJ booth and the recorded scratched. We were all under a microscope at the moment.

 “Nas chill! What’s wrong?” Cheri asked totally confused as a beautiful brown skin girl in a wheelchair rolled up to him and grabbed his hand.

 His body tensed the relaxed at her touch, “That nigga has no business being around you or Cheri after what he did to you Dutch,” he spat.

"And he damn sure ain't welcome hea."

 “Did to me?” she said with furrowed eyebrows before turning her attention to Beau for answers.

 “I was the passenger in the car that hit you and Riley was the driver,” Beau said lowly, but never breaking his eye contact from hers.

 That was all it took before this nigga to yank away from her with his fist balled and charge at Beau.

 Ahhhh shit.