Cycleofchances - Blog Posts

ugh, I don't know who side to stand on when it comes to Nami and Aaron. I feel like this kid will bring an even bigger wedge between Aaron and his marriage and cause more conflict, especially if he's not willing to be apart of his kid's life, which is sad. But, it wouldn't be fair for Nami to raise it on her own either. ugh, Jesus fix it! What is the coincidence that they're all at the same restaurant!?!

Another child outside of Aaron’s marriage is definitely a big problem. This could possibly have an affect on his divorce proceedings. If and when Gabby finds out who knows how she’ll respond. I’m gonna play devil’s advocate and say did they have a prenup? You know and I both know she’s an intelligent woman and  I would hope she wouldn’t let Aaron do her like that. But, 

Aaron deserves all the bullshit coming his way. If he had priorities straight from jump he wouldn’t be in this predicament. Regardless of the circumstances he should definitely step up and be a man for his child. The child is innocent in all of this there is no reason why she should suffer from this. He should, but that doesn’t mean he will though. 

Dutch did say Lotus Blue was her favorite Chinese spot. Thanks for the feedback! Much appreciated. 

I love Gabby's personality. She has a tough skin and she has her priorities straight unlike Aaron. I feel bad for her though. She's a strong woman and I feel like Aaron took advantage of that in some aspects. Like, he probably thought she would brush it and move on as no big deal. If I'm going to keep it a 100, Nami and Dutch both wrong. Even before Dutch found out about Nami, she was messing around with Nas at his crib. Two wrongs don't make a right but hey, I just thought I point that out.

I’m glad you love Gabby’s personality, I often have a difficult time with writing from her POV. The fact that you enjoy her really means something to me, thank you. Gabby’s strong, don’t feel sorry for her she got this. Aaron definitely did underestimate Gabby and took her for granted for the last time. Moving forward she’s worried about herself, her children and her company. 

Yes, you’re correct Dutch and Nami are both wrong, no doubt about that. For Nami step out her relationship is wrong, but a year out of three years you’ve been in a relationship is straight disrespectful. Nami is on a whole nother level with her bullshit at this point. Dutch wasn’t right either and that will definitely be addressed. Nasir and Dutch both have a lot of explaining to do.

Thank you love, this feedback in particular is helping me with where I’m taking the next two chapters. You gave me something and I’m not sure what it is, but I plan to figure it out. Thanks again.

Ch. 6 | She Knows

Aaron

Attorney’s Office

10 a.m.

“This is really what you want Gabz?” I asked looking between her and her attorney taking time to carefully examine her features, Tori is a spitting image of her. When she first brought divorce to the table I can’t lie and say that it didn’t catch me off guard. I mean yeah we fight, we argue, hell we’ve even been separated, but divorce was never something I considered.

Gabby is my one and only love, with all the women I’ve fucked with over the years none could hold a flame to her. I hate to admit it, but she’ll always have my heart. For as long as I can remember she’s always been all I had and the only one to show me what love really is, but I never could reciprocate the feelings like I should have. I always manage to drop the ball somehow.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t,” she shrugged nonchalantly, but her eyes said something else. I’ve never seen her look or act so coldly towards me. This is a new woman sitting before me and it doesn’t sit well with me.

“Fine,” I said shifting in my seat to look at my attorney. I’ve never been a fan of any type of legal battles with my line of work I can afford it. The last thing I need is to have any man of the law snooping through my finances or asking too many questions, Gabby and I both know that well.

“Give her whatever she wants,” I waved to my attorney making him look at me like I had grown another head.

“Are you sure about this? You haven’t even heard the terms she’s offering and you're agreeing to it!” he barked turning tomato red in the face.

I smirked at him and turned my attention to Gabby, “What do you want baby?”

She scoffed and rolled her eyes making me smile internally, if I know Gabby like I think I do she’ll be rational about the situation.

“I personally don’t want or need shit from you, we can split all our assets evenly if need be. As far as the kids we’ve been co-parenting so I don’t see why that can’t continue. As far as the house you can do with it what you want Trey, Tori and I are moving into a smaller condo. We don’t need too much extra space,” she said curtly as if she had rehearsed her terms many times over.

“So you’re telling me you don’t want anything, no spousal support, no child support, nothing?” My attorney asked truly in disbelief. I guess he’s never dealt with a woman like Gabby before. Shit I’ve never dealt with a woman like Gabby before, one that’s never depended on or needed me for anything.

“That’s what the fuck I said right!” she growled. Seeing her so agitated had me ready to bend her over this thick oak table and make her forget all about this divorce nonsense she’s talking. She’s well aware that she’ll always be mine regardless of what some fucking paperwork says.

“Aaron knows where his responsibilities lie, I don’t have to tell him how to step up and be a man for his children. As far as myself I’ve always been a go-getter the last thing I want is to be supported by his ass like I’m his child.

I don’t need nor want any paper trail that leads back to his bank account. I’ve always been able to support and provide for myself, ain’t shit changed, but the weather,” she said flipping her curls over her shoulder making me smile.

My wife really is a one of a kind woman and somehow my dumbass managed to let her slip through my fingers for good and the more this divorce talk swirls around the room the more I’m beginning to regret my choices.

“You just worry about the necessary paperwork and call my attorney when you’ve met my conditions,” she said to my attorney as she rose from the brown swivel chair she was sitting in and began to head to the door.

I ignored whatever my attorney was telling me as I sprinted from my chair to catch her before she could reach the elevator.

“Gabz!” I yelled as she continued to ignore me and frantically push the down button at the same time.

I had to smile to myself as I jogged up behind her as composed as she would like to appear she’s nervous as hell, but I can’t lie she damn sure has a great poker face.

“Baby why you doing all this?” I said softly while wrapping my arms around her waist from behind and resting my chin on her left shoulder. I made sure my manhood rested right on her thick ass, I missed the feeling of having her so close.

She tried to wiggle away, but I only tightened my grip making her let out an exasperated sigh and eventually gave up.

“Aaron let’s be honest here you haven’t been a loyal or faithful husband in quite sometime. I’m sick of being the one who always gets the short end of the stick in this marriage. You go out doing God knows what, with God knows who while I sit at home with our children playing house waiting for your black ass to come home.

I’m mentally, physically and emotionally drained. I can’t, no I refuse to be your doormat any longer. I’ve been with you too long and I’ve put up with a lot, but enough is enough A. I just can’t,” she said flatly letting out a sigh and it ate at me.

Gabby is my rock; my everything.  She’s always had the ability to keep me stable no matter what the circumstance, how could I be so blind to my actions.

“You know what Trey asked me the other day?” she chuckled dryly while I shook my head no on her shoulder as we watched the elevator come and go.

“Are you and daddy still together because you don’t seem happy anymore mommy?” she said and that hurt me more than anything. My son has always been intuitive even from a very young age. So the fact that he’s picking up on my bullshit was like a punch to the gut. I’m really fucking up.

“My baby is only 4 and he can see that I’m not happy which makes me question why you, a grown ass man can’t see that I’m not happy and I haven’t been for sometime. Yes my business and my children mean the world to me, but I’m missing something and I can’t say I know what it is,” she said truthfully.

“So us getting a divorce is going to help you figure it out!” I said raising my voice. I was starting to get heated; she’s ready to just throw everything we built away. Just toss it out the window.

“What if this isn’t what I want! I love you Gabrielle and I’m still very much in love with you. I’m a dog, an ain’t shit dog. But I’m willing to fight for you and my kids if need be. How can I make this right baby just tell me what you need me to do,” I said almost on the verge of tears.

I felt my phone annoyingly vibrating in my pocket, but whoever was blowing me up would have to wait for once I’m finally putting my priorities into perspective.

“Aaron baby,” she said finally turning around and gracing me with her beautiful face, she took some time staring at my face and using her thumb to stroke my bottom lip.

 “I can’t tell you what to do to make this right because I don’t think you can. Deep down part of me really does want our marriage to work and weather this storm, but I’m tired of being the only one putting up a fight to do so. Right now I need to focus on me and the kids because you’ve been focused on you for quite sometime,” she said dropping her hand and sighing.

 Before either one of us could register what was happening my lips crashed into hers. I needed her to understand me and I couldn’t think of any other way to express myself. When I felt her body relax into mine, sighing against my lips I knew that this was what she needed too. I kissed her how a husband is supposed to kiss his wife with love, passion and admiration. She’s my woman, my love, my wife and I’ll be damned if I just let her go.

 “Gabz I promise you this and I put this on my Grammy’s grave and my kid’s little heads, I’m going to get us right again and you’re never going to have to question your trust or love for me ever again. I fucked up bad and I’m sorry, I really am,” I said pulling back from her lips now plump and swollen.

 She studied my face trying to gauge the truthfulness of my statement and simply nodded her head while detaching my warm body from hers. I instantly felt cold and empty, I’m not used to feeling alone, as I watched her turn and head for the stairs instead of waiting for the elevator to come back up.

 It’s finally dawning on me; I’m losing my wife. The annoying buzzing of my phone broke me from my trance. Gabby had been gone for a minute, but I was still staring at the staircase as if she’d walk back through it.

 From Nami:

            We need to talk ASAP. Meet me at Lotus Blue for lunch.

I instantly felt like shit while reading the text. A sudden foul taste washed through my mouth. This needs to end today if I really want to make things right with Gabby and my family I can’t have any loose ends. Nami is just that a loose end that needs to be cut. I don't need the stress.

Dutchess

Nasir’s House

11 a.m.

“Noooo,” Nas whined and I couldn’t help but giggle at his cuteness.  I was hoping that last night’s little sexcapades wouldn’t make our interactions awkward, but he’s acting as if it never happened. Thank God.

 He woke up extra early and made all of my favorites, crispy smoked bacon, extra fluffy scrambled eggs and chocolate chip  pancakes topped with a scoop of his homemade chocolate ice cream, I swear he makes me never want to leave. Even though I really want to sulk in bed all day, his delicious breakfast made my morning way better than it could have been.

“Just stay in bed with me all day we can watch that lame ass show you love and pig out on food all day,” he said as he nuzzled he face into my neck and threw his arm over my torso pulling my body closer to his without hurting me.

“First of all The Golden Girls are far from lame, they’re shade connoisseurs take notes youngin’,” I said while poking his side making him fight the urge to laugh. How he wanna be a thug, but he’s ticklish?

“Second of all I need answers Nas, if Nami is pregnant then everything changes,” I said dropping my voice making his bring his face from the crook of my neck to look at me. His eyes read pity and it made me drop my eyes from his intense glare. I really didn’t want his pity or anyone else’s for that matter.

“Baby I’m here for you and I’ll be here for you in anyway possible. I got you,” he said using his thumb to graze my cheek making me smile bright at the small gesture.

“There’s my girl,” he said mirroring my smile before pecking my lips, well what started out as peck but quickly escalated into something more heavy. I’m not sure how I’m supposed to feel about him kissing me, but I don’t think I want him to stop.

“Mmm,” I moaned pulling away before things could go any further, still smiling.

“You like that?” he smiled. I could only nod and blush at how attractive he was being. Over the past few weeks I’ve been seeing him in a new light, I’ve honestly never been attracted to Nas. Probably because we’ve always been strictly friends he respected that I was with Nami and I respected that he had hoes.

The sultry, huskiness in his voice had the wetness between my legs starting to pool making me clench my thighs, which he took notice to. I had no idea he could have this type of effect on me.

“You’re something else you know that?” he chuckled and shook his head before plopping his head back onto the pillow.

I couldn’t stop myself from running my finger along his jawline it had to be my favorite feature of his. It’s perfect; so masculine. I find myself finding any excuse to touch him nowadays, not like he minds.

“I think I’m gonna link with A today,” he blurted out.

“Why? You want work, I can make some calls if you need me to,” I told him, halting my finger along his jawline.

“Nah bae, something about him and Nami don’t sit right with me. I feel like they’re both hiding something and if he’s really my mans than he should be able to keep it 100.”

I’m starting to see clearly that Nami isn’t shit, but Aaron? We’ve been thick as thieves for years what could he possibly have to hid from me? I’ve always held him down and looked out for him. Hell, I was one of Gabby’s bridesmaids when they got married and I was there when both Trey and Tori were born.

They’ve been the closest things to family I’ve had in years so to think that he’s hiding something from me genuinely bothers me.

All I could do was nod my head at what he said simply because my mind was once again all over the place. Something about isn’t adding up and I need the solution to all of this.

 “I want to do something special for dinner, you think you could make it home early tonight bae?” he said completely changing the topic.

I had completely forgot that I have a lunch date with Beau, Nas mentioned it to me this morning over breakfast and it completely slipped my mind. My thoughts have been so consumed with Nami that I forgot about my lunch “date”.

“Yeah Nas, I don’t see why not. You want to tell me what you have planned?” I said cheesing at the thought of a surprise. He always seem to have something up his sleeve these days.

“Stop smiling so hard, your face is gonna get stuck like that,” he busted out laughing as I mugged him.

“Nah, but I will tell you dinner will be hands on tonight and very messy,” he said wiping a nonexistent tear from his eye.

“Messy? Will I need a bib?” I said jokingly.

“Yeah actually you will.”

Before I could open my mouth to say anything more or protest he cut me off, “Come on let’s get you dressed so you can hurry home.”

One thing about Nas is he keeps me smiling and laughing when I really want to sit in a corner and cry. It’s refreshing. 

"Home" never sounded so good before.

Beau

Lotus Blue

2:15 p.m.

“I’ll have the shrimp and pineapple fried rice, no peanuts I’m allergic,” she told the waiter handing him her menu. Making a mental note of her aversion to peanuts.

“I’ll have the same with flank steak instead of shrimp,” I told him before he walked off to put in our order.

/“How’d you know that Lotus Blue was my favorite Chinese spot?” she smiled while tilting her head to the side revealing a deep set of dimples that I instantly fell in love with. I couldn’t help biting my lip at the sight of her. She’s gorgeous, why wouldn’t I?

“Obviously you’re a woman of great taste because Lotus Blue is one of the best Chinese spots in the city and one of my favorites as well,” I told her in between sipping my water with a lemon slice floating on top. I swear this restaurant does the most with this bougie shit.

“I’m glad you agreed to meet me today. After last night’s debacle I was apprehensive about seeing you today,” I told her honestly.

She instantly waved me off, “I’ve always been a pretty good judge of character and you don’t seem like the type to cause someone harm intentionally.”

I instantly started to cheese at how forthcoming she was being. I’m glad we’re finally making some progress.

“So how has the recovery process been so far?” I asked genuinely concerned an intrigued.

“I have my days, some better than other. My doctor is saying that my ribs are healing exceptionally well and I should have my casts off both legs in a few weeks although I won’t be walking yet. I’m glad though my legs itch so badly with these things on,” she said while pointing to her legs.

“I’ll still be in my wheel chair until my legs get acclimated to walking again, but aside from that I’m just happy that it hasn’t been too strenuous. I try not to think about that night it hurts that I can’t remember what happened,” she said looking away making eye contact with the waiter bringing our food.

I didn’t want to bring up anything that would upset her. Everything seemed to be going well, I really just want to get to know her and get used to her having me around because honestly I don’t plan on going anywhere.

Over the next hour we talked about everything under the sun and enjoyed some good laughs. Hearing her laugh and be herself so freely showed me another side to her, one that I really enjoy. Dutch really is a cool ass woman and a goofball, I can’t say I don’t enjoy her company.

After she filled me in on part of the situation with her “girlfriend” I can’t fathom why someone would cheat on her. She truthfully is a good person and I could already tell she’s loyal. Why someone says they love her would shit on her like that  is beyond me.

Everything about her exuded sexy, 

the way her heavy Brooklyn accent flowed,

those deep set dimples,

the wrinkle on top of her nose when she was deep in thought, I noticed any and everything about Dutch. I have yet to find a flaw. 

“I should bring Nas something to eat,” she said to herself, but it came out louder then she anticipated. I instantly tensed at his name being said. There's her flaw, that nigga. It’s not that I don’t like him, but it’s not like I like him either.

“Is he your man?” I asked curiously, I honestly wanted to know where they stood. Not that I cared to be honest because once everything is said and done Dutch was going to be Dutchess Wade so that nigga can go somewhere. Once we get together he'll be nothing, but a distant memory.

“No, he’s not. But he is someone who has a very special place in my heart,” she stated flatly while looking over the menu for something to get him.

“THE FUCK YOU MEAN GET RID OF IT? I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU! WE MADE THIS BABY TOGETHER, THIS IS OUR BABY AND I’M KEEPING IT!” I heard a familiar voice screeching from behind me. It was too familiar, but I couldn’t put my finger on whom it belonged too.

Before I could process the voice, Dutch was rolling herself in the direction of the commotion that had everyone in the restaurants attention.

  Nami

Lotus Blue

3:25 p.m.

It was like a Mexican standoff between Aaron and I. He frantically looked between my face and the sonogram of our daughter. Even though she’s only 15 weeks old due to her body position my doctor could easily see her sex.

Aaron and I have been messing around for one year out of the three years that Dutch and I have been together. I know I’m selfish and sleazy for cheating on Dutch with A, but so the fuck what I want my cake and to eat it too. I honestly fell in love with them both and if I had it my way I’d have both of them. I watched his every move and all of the emotions written on his face.

“So, you aren’t going to say anything,” I said picking over the food on my plate. This pregnancy has my appetite fluctuating. One minute I’m puking up my guts the next I’m ready to eat like a 500 lb. man at a eating contest.

“You can’t keep it,” he blurted out almost making me choke on the noodles I was eating.

“Come again? Cause obviously I didn’t hear you,” I said to him pushing my plate aside giving him my undivided attention. Obviously this nigga got me fucked up if I heard him correctly.

“I said you can’t keep it. I’m trying to get shit right with my wife and kids, you know keep my family together and here you come with this baby shit. I can pay for the abortion if you want, but I don’t want anything to do with this baby shit you talkin’,” he spat coldly. The man I fell in love with has completely flipped the script and  is telling me to kill our child as if what we had was nothing to him.

I couldn’t help, but cackle at the utter bullshit that flowed from his mouth. No just a regular cackle no, no an ugly ass Eartha Kitt sinister cackle.

“Nigga fuck that bitch! You wasn’t thinkin’ bout her when you was nuttin’ deep all up in my shit, now all of a sudden you care about “her and your kids” I said using air quotes matching his tone.

“You know how many times we were raw dawgin’ it? Were you thinking about your family then?”

“Watch your mouth,” he warned and chuckled dryly.

“No, nigga you watch your mouth, I’m having our daughter and that’s that. You got some nerve telling me to get rid of her when you damn near fucked up everything being with me. Now all of a sudden you expect me to just throw it all away? Believe it or not I cared about you, shit I loved you.

Just like you I put up everything to be with you, do you have any idea how crushed Dutch is going to be when she finds out about us? How we both went behind he back and shitted on everything she’s ever done for us?” I growled at him while I watched him sigh and run his hand down his face. I knew I struck a nerve bringing up Dutch.

Dutch brought both of us in and helped us make more bread than either one of us would ever see working a regular 9 to 5. Being that Aaron knew Dutch way longer than me I know for a fact that when she finds out she’s definitely going to cut him off and leave him for dead.

“Like I said Nami you need to get rid of it! I’m not dealing with you or that fuck ass baby you carrying,” he barked while pointing to my stomach, “I don’t need the stress you bring or another baby!”

“THE FUCK YOU MEAN GET RID OF IT? I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU! WE MADE THIS BABY TOGETHER, THIS IS OUR BABY AND I’M KEEPING IT!” I yelled while slamming my palm down on the table, not giving a fuck who heard us or who turned around to see. I’m sick of playing this little game with him.

“Y’ALL NOSEY MUTHAFUCKAS NEED TO MIND YOUR OWN FUCKING BUSINESS!” I barked at the few patrons who turned around to see what was going on at our table.

“Aaron I’m having our baby and that’s that. I ruined everything being with you and I’ll be damned if it was all for nothing. Whether you’re seeing it or not our baby is a blessing and she’s going to need her daddy so get your shit together and man up.”

I heard a slow clapping coming from behind me and I looked up at Aaron’s face and he looked as if he saw a ghost. His coco brown skin now flushed to an ash brown, his eyes wide as saucers. I instantly turned around ready to snap on whomever had his attention, but my face soon mirrored his.

Damn I didn’t mean for her to find out like this, but at least she knows. Right?

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.

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.

Ch. 4| I Got This

Aaron

Our Gabby’s House

2:06 p.m

“Smile for mommy Tori!” I heard Gabby say to Tori as she snapped a few photos with her phone while we waited for Trey to come out of his room. Hearing my baby laugh and giggle made me laugh with her. It’s infectious.

Looking at the smile on Gabby’s face as she took pictures of Tori warmed my heart. I haven’t seen that Gabby in a while.

“Daddy I’m ready!!” Trey yelled as he raced out of his room sneakers in tow “Can we go to the park now!” he said as he damn near ran out the front door.

“Aye where you going with no shoes on!” Gabby yelled as she laughed at his antics.

“Mommy I can put them on in the car! I don’t want to miss the ice cream truck!” he said as he hopped in the back seat and buckling his seat belt impatiently waiting for us to follow his lead.

“Daddy put me down!” Tori said trying to wiggle from grip.

“I wonder where they get that from” Gabby said mugging me as she grabbed a few snacks for the kids and her purse.

 “Shit me too!” I said while kissing Tori’s cheek then putting her down so she could run to the car to follow her brother’s lead.

Those two are attached at the hip being that she’s 3 and he’s 4 everything he does she has to do and she tries to do it better.

 My baby is gonna be something.

____

 “Watch out for your sister Trey!” Gabby yelled behind them as they both sped off to go play.

 And instantly the awkward silence slowly crept it’s way between us.  The ever too familiar awkward silence we’ve both grown to know very well.

 “So how have you been? I see that your business has taken off well” I said trying to make conversation and to take note of how well her company has taken off.

 She started her own hair product line about a year ago and business is booming. I remember when she was in the kitchen playing mixtress, using me and Nas as guinea pigs to test her products.

 “And I see you ain’t wearing your ring,” she said smugly without looking away from Tori playing on the swings.

I let out a deep sigh and ran my hand down my face seeing clearly where this is going.

 “Why you beating around the bush and pussyfootin’ around the real issue at hand?” she continued.

“Come on man, not today shit was going well until you had to come at my jugular,” I said getting irritated.

 “What’s her name Aaron?” she asked simply.

 “What?” my ears perked up because I don’t think I heard her clearly.

 “Nigga you heard me loud and clear. We’ve been married for 6 years and I been with you since I was 15, you think I don’t know the way you move?” she said looking at me like I was stupid.

 “You’re so predictable it’s sad and the fact that I keep falling for it makes me even more foolish and gullible than you to think you'd change” she said almost disgusted with herself.

 "The fact that you said “what” tells me there is someone else,” she said with tears brimming in her eyes, but her pride wouldn’t let them fall.

“I’m tired of this, you won,” she said defeated. I looked at her with furrowed brows.

 “I’m a good woman and I know that. All I asked you to do was not do me dirty, be loyal and hold me down like I’ve done for you all these years. But you couldn’t do that, you take and take and take, but at this point I have nothing left to give,” her voice shook as she spoke.

 She got quiet and looked at me, analyzing my face hoping that I wouldn't confirm her suspicion. I remained quiet knowing that if I said something it would only add fuel to the fire.  We stared at each other both trying to read each other, but for once I couldn’t.

 “I want a divorce,” she said after an eternity in a firm voice.

 I opened my mouth to speak Tori and Trey came racing over to us.

 “Mommy can we have some juice?” they said in unison and out of breath.

 Gabby put her mommy cape back on and handed them their juices as they sat in between us regaining their energy. So focused all her attention on them from that point forward completely ignoring me. Leaving me alone to my thoughts.

 A divorce?

 Is it that bad that she’d go that far?

 Did I push her that far that she’s ready to throw in the towel and throw everything away?

Naaaah.

Dutch

Nasir’s House

4:00 p.m.

“That’s foul son! You have 7 cars in your garage and I can't whip one for the night? Some brother you are,” Cheri said chuckling darkly.

I woke up to the heavy aroma of weed in the air and Cheri and Nas going at it in true sibling form.

“Damn” I mumbled to myself as I licked my lips causing Nas to turn his attention to me.

“You’re finally awake sleepin’ beauty,” he said walking over to me on the couch completely ignoring what his little sister was saying and came over to check on me.

“That’s foul Nas! Come on I had classes and work all week. I just want to  go out for a little while pleaaasssse” she pleaded and made him feel guilty at the same time.

We all know that Nas has a soft spot for his baby sis and she busses her ass every day with school and work. She really is a good girl.

She gave him a pair of doe eyes that made Bambi look like trash and he folded. 

Kissing his teeth,” Fine! And don’t go leaving none of your shit in my car” he said pointing to his car key rack, allowing her to chose any car she wanted for the night.

“Thank you!” she said gleefully and kissed his cheeks as he swatted her away.

 “Come on chill! I don’t want your ugly to rub off go sumwhere man!” he said wiping his face.

 “Boy please! I love you bye,” she as she grabbed the keys and ran out.

 “I spoil her,” he chuckled to himself as he shook his head.

 “She’s a good girl she deserves it,” I told him honestly as I shifted on the couch.

 He looked at me with an unreadable expression and put a stray hair behind my ear “yeah, she does,” he said. I knew that statement had an underlying meaning.

 “I bought you a new phone while you were sleeping I know your phone was finished after the accident,” he said pointing to the box sitting on the table in front of me.

 “You didn’t have to,” I said graciously “Nami could have gotten it for me.”

 As soon as I mentioned Nami he sucked his teeth and his jaw clenched. I know better than anyone that there’s bad blood between the two, but they’ve always been able to be cordial for the most part.

 “Can you not?” I asked him.

 He nodded his head and changed the subject, “AK stopped by with some food that Autumn cooked for you. He said he stopped by your place, but Nami wasn’t there so he figured you were here with me,” he stated smartly as he got up and walked into the kitchen I’m assuming to go heat up the food.

I nodded my head figuring Nami is out making runs, now that I’m out of commission everybody has been picking up double time to make up for my lack of work.

Turning on my new phone I see that I have missed calls, most from customers and a few from the crew.

Going through my text I noticed that I haven’t gotten one from Nami today. Something isn’t right I haven’t seen her since last night and she hasn’t shot a message asking if I’m good. 

To Panda:

Wassup where you at?

 I saw a few messages from the crew and two from an unknown number.

 From 1 646 XXX XXXX:

Hey?

From 1 646 XXX XXXX:

Is this Dutchess?

 I read the message and seriously pondered about who it could be, I’m not one to give out my number. Curiosity got the best of me and I replied,

To 1 646 XXX XXXX:

Who’s asking?

 No less than five seconds later the phone buzzed and tinged in my hand,

From 1 646 XXX XXXX:

My name is Beau Wade. I was in the car that hit her and I’d like speak with her.

I looked down at the phone like it was an alien. To be honest I haven’t though about the accident since I left the hospital because I just want to put it behind me and focus on healing. Reliving it put me in a dark place.

I felt it buzz in my hand twice breaking me from my dark thoughts.

From Panda:

 Hey baby, I’ve been making runs all day. A said Nas took the day off to look after you so I’m going to pick you up from his place later on tonight.

From 1 646 XXX XXXX:

 Dutchess? I’m so sorry for everything that happened. I know that you don’t know me and have no reason to believe me, but I really want to help you. I’d like to be there for you in anyway that I can.

 I read the messages and tossed my phone onto another couch. I didn’t want to be bothered with it for a while. Something about Nami’s text rubbed me the wrong way.

 “What you ova there thinkin’ bout so hard?” Nas said breaking me from my thoughts.

 The last thing I want to talk with him about is Nami, his opinions are too biased he never cared for Nami so I can’t expect to get just advice from him. For that I need AK or Autumn.

 “Nothing, but that food in your hand tho,” I said grinning and nodding my head over to the plate in his hand.

 “Chill chubbs I’m coming,” he said setting up trays for us, before going back to the kitchen to get the drinks.

 Being the greedy crumb snatcher that I am I tried to reach for the fork and get some pasta off the plate.

 “Ahh!” I moaned out in pain biting my bottom lip to stifle my moan hoping Nas didn’t hear me.

 “What you doing greedy?” Nas asked amused as he walked over setting the drinks down on the trays.

 “I got hungry,” I pouted like a little kid.

He chuckled as he sat down next to me, he began cutting up the chicken breast on my plate into strips then turned to me, “Let me help,” he said before feeding me the chicken and pasta. 

“Mmmm wait this don’t taste like Autumn’s food,” I said with a raised eyebrow. Yeah my girl Autumn could burn some pans, but not like this. This food had southern feel to it, this food was giving me the warmth that only food from the NOLA can give.

After coming down from the high the food was giving me I took note to the music playing.

“And you know this is my song,” I said mouthing the lyrics.

“You catch everything,” he chuckled and held the fork to my mouth waiting for me to open.

“I put ha food to the side. You eat her food all the time, I wanted to do something special and play chef for a while,” he said wiping pasta sauce from my bottom lip with is thumb before putting it in his mouth and licking it off.

“Did you forget who you dragged to The Roots concert because someone couldn’t make it,” he chuckled licking lips looking at me. He made a point to emphasize the someone in his statement.

 His lips never looked that good before. It’s like I’m seeing them for the first time and I can’t complain about what I see.

I giggled, “I’m not complaining, but you should have some too. It’s good,” I said in between bites and pointing to his untouched plate.

“Don’t worry about me I got this, now eat. I made peach cobbler and fresh ice cream for desert you keep talking and you gon’ miss out” he said before feeding himself from my plate to oblige my request.

“Wait, did you say you made ice cream?” My curiosity was piqued.

 “You ain’t know?” he said pausing to look at me “ya boy got skills in that kitchen baby!”

 “Keep talking like that and you might keep me for good, you know food is the way to my panties” I laughed at my self and slapped my hand over my mouth realized what slipped out my mouth.

“Nah bae I got other ways to get to those, and this is just something to get you wet. Give you a taste of what’s to come,” he said wiggling his eyebrows.

I couldn’t help, but throw my head back and laugh at his silliness. I rarely get a good laugh, but when I do his silly ass is the one to give it to me. 

“I like your laugh,” he said while studying my face and I instantly began to blush and feel a tingle in my loins from the look he was giving me.

 I looked away embarrassed and I didn’t need him to see my flushed face.

He chuckled and rose from the couch, “I’m gonna go check on the ice cream bae.”

Did this nigga just call me bae?

What stories do you read?

A few of my faves that are being currently written are,

http://bomptonkalifornia-ff.tumblr.com/

and

http://herloveff.tumblr.com/

and

http://brokenwingsff.tumblr.com/

Two of my faves that are completed and I believe may have sequels coming are,

http://room-matefanfic.tumblr.com/

and

http://enemyfanfic.tumblr.com/

These are just a few, we don’t have time for all my faves love :)

Ch. 3 Pt. 1 | Noncompliance

Dutchess

Mount Sinai Hospital

8:15 a.m.

“Ms. Blake you sure you’re making the best decision? Are you sure you’re not letting the sedatives speak for you?” One of the detectives asked me in complete disbelief.

Once the Dr. gave word to the detectives that I was conscious and able to answer questions they quickly came in with their notepads out ready to ask me if I remembered anything from the accident. I’ve never been a fan of NYPD so even if it was for my own benefit I wasn’t being compliant.

“Yes, I’m completely sure. I want all charges dropped against all parties responsible for the accident,” I told him never failing to break eye contact.

“Are you deadass right now?” Nami asked openly sharing her disgust and disbelief to those in the room. I could feel her burning a whole in the side of my face, but I’m not budging. I have to stand firm in what I feel is right.

“These niggas almost ended your shit, got you in this bitch handicap and you’re letting them walk!” Nami growled in disbelief.

“Baby how can you be okay with this? They’ve taken so much from you and you’re letting the shit rock,” I could see the tears brimming in her eyes, but I wasn’t budging.

 As hard as it is for me to let go of their careless mistakes, holding onto them would personally do me no good. Being bitter or vindictive isn’t going to get me to ride and deliver any sooner; it isn’t going to lessen the pain in anyway so why harbor that kind of hate?

Nami is quick to forget I’m running my own multi-million dollar illegal delivery service. Fuck I look like cooperating with the cops for anything? She's buggin. I get it they want what’s best, but I can’t risk them snooping around in my shit, Nami and the cops alike.

Ignoring her rant and the detective’s smartass comment, “Yeah I’m sure. I want any and all charges dropped. I’ve got enough on my plate, worrying about this is more than I need right now.” I told him curtly.

I heard Nami scoff and watched him nod his head, “Well here’s my card, give me a call when you change your mind,” he said very sure of himself and sure of my phone call.

“That won’t be necessary, I won’t be calling,” I said matching his tone dismissing him.

Before he got out the room I called to him, “Can you send my Dr. in your way out” I said with a smile full of blatant disrespect.

“I don’t fucking get you yo! How are you just okay with this?” Nami said as she let the tears freely stream down her face now that we’re alone.

“How you gonna explain this to Nas and A? They damn near beat that nigga to a bloody pulp and now you finna just let him go?” her voice was so exasperated and strained.

I opened my mouth to speak, but I closed it. How do I explain this to her and have her fully understand where I’m coming from? I can’t expect Nami to sympathize with me or relate because she’s not me and will never be able to rationalize my standpoint.

 As far as Nas and Aaron nobody told them to go play sergeant and captain save a bitch. I can fight my own battles and once again they’ve gone and done some reckless shit. I’ll deal with them later.

 “Ms. Blake I’m glad you’re awake and speaking,” the Dr. walked in interrupting my thoughts and the conversation. I silently thanked him.

 “You’re doing extremely well, how are you feeling?” he asked while reading over my charts.

 “My head is pounding and I’m hungry,” I told him and laughed, while he chuckled along with me. Nami rolled her eyes and shook her head.

 “How can you laugh at a time like this?” Nami said seething. I hated seeing her hurt, but if I didn’t laugh than her anger would be contagious and my thirst for blood would reawaken.

 The Dr. straightened up, “Ms. Blake for the next three months you’ll be on bed rest. Both of your legs have been broken, thankfully it was a clean break so the recovery process should be smooth, your bones should be reconnecting in no time. You will need assistance around the clock during your recovery process.” he paused letting me process what he was telling me.

 “You also have four broken ribs, the 6th, 7th, 11th and 12th. That adds an additional six to eight weeks to your recovery time.” He said finally letting it all sink in.

I have so many thoughts running through my mind, but none of which I cared to share with him. “Continue” I told him. 

“We’d like to keep you here for the week to run some tes—“ 

“Nah you good son, I’m ready to go now,” I said cutting him off before could finish his statement.

“Ms. Blake as strong as you feel mentally, physically your body just isn’t up to it. Your body needs to rest and recuperate” he said rationally.

“I completely understand that and I thank you for your concern, but I can get all my rest at home, in my bed instead of this stale ass hospital bed” I said smirking “ I also can have my own personal Dr. and nurse take care of me 24/7 if I need them. So if you have to airlift me out this bitch I’m going home tonight.”

“Ms. Blake, please think about your health,” the Dr. warned.

“That’s my only concern. Now please go work on my release forms and my medications” I said finally.

He huffed and walked away.

“You’re something else you know that?” Nami said chuckling and running her hand through her curls. Something she did when nervous.

“I know baby, but you love me though. Where’s everybody?” I asked her while looking around the empty room. After all the commotion they all scattered like roaches.

“Autumn went to go sit in the car with Nas and A. After they beat Beau’s ass they were bandaged up then escorted out of the hospital,” she said.

“Beau?” I asked confused. Did I miss something? She throwing names at me like I know people.

“He was in the car that hit you. He’s been sitting in your room since you got out of surgery and when we walked in and saw him too comfy by your side Nasir and A spanked that ass” she said excited. Her bird ass.

“Damn that’s crazy” was all I could come up with. Seeing her so excited about the pain inflicted on him was unsettling. She dead is showing all 32 teeth right now speaking about the ass whoopin’ Nas and A gave the man.

“I’m hungry,” I said completely changing the subject. She went on to say something, but I tuned her out my mind is somewhere else. I don’t want to deal with the bullshit right now, I’m still trying to process bed rest for 3 months what the fuck am I going to do for 3 FUCKING MONTHS! Everything I’ve always done has been on the go now that the option is completely taken from me I’m lost. 

“Baby you heard me?” Nami said break me from my thoughts.

“Nah wassup?” I said giving her my attention.

“I said when we get home I can cook a nice meal for all of us and we can all just get some sleep” she suggested.

“Sounds good baby, I’m gonna call you Nurse Nami from now on” I said as she giggled and leaned over to kiss me. Her soft lips melted into mine and I felt a sense of relief wash over her. 

“What am I gonna do with you?” she said using her finger to trace my bottom lip. 

“We’re gonna be okay,” I said with certainty as I heard the door opening. I could tell it was something she need to hear.

“I’ve got your release forms and your prescriptions” my Dr. came in saying.

“Don’t you move fast?” I said excitedly as I looked at the forms in his hand.

Beau

Mount Sinai

10 a.m.

“You sure this the room bruh?” Jay asked as he wheeled me into Dutchess’ room. This wheelchair shit is not where it’s at, but if I shift my body to much everything hurts then goes completely numb.

 “This is 432 right?” I asked Boogz making sure we’re in the right room. Cause apparently he be forgetting shit easily nowadays.

 He went to the door and checked, “yeah this is, but this shit has been wiped clean. The bedding hasn’t even been touched,” Boogz pointed out as he walked over to inspect the fresh bedding. The room looked like it had been wiped clean, no traces of anyone having been here.

 “I’m not buggin’ she was here, maybe they moved her to another room after the fight. Come on let’s go check a few rooms,” I suggested.

 She had to be here it’s not like she can up and walk outta here. We scanned all the rooms on her floor until we came across her Dr.

 “Well look who’s still meddling around” her Dr. mocked as he walked up to me, someone’s salty.

 “I could have lost my job for that little stunt you pulled,” he said. To be honest I don’t like his tone or attitude he lucky I’m in this chair right now.

 “Fuck all that, where’d you move her to?” I asked him ignoring the bullshit he was talkin’.

 He scoffed, “she was released.”

 “So soon?” I asked confused.

 “Yep she asked to be released to her private Md. so I granted her wishes,” he stated, before walking in the opposite direction ending the conversation.

 Wow she wasted no time.

 “Damn, shorty got the fuck outta here quick for someone with two bad legs,” Jay said aloud, reading my mind.

 “How are we supposed to find her now?” Boogz asked me while scratching his head.

Damn I didn't expect her to get up outta here so soon, I hoped that I'd at least get her phone number or shit an e-mail address, at this point a nigga is desperate. I can't just let her go that easily. Hanging my head and trying to think of ways I could possibly find her, I'm coming up blank.

"Maybe it's for the best," Boogz blurted out while still scratching the back of his head.

I furrowed my eyebrows confused when I looked at him, "what you mean?"

"I mean now that's she's gone maybe it's for the best that she's out of our lives for good. Now we don't owe her anything, she dropped all charges against us so legally we're free to move on with our lives," he looked at me with all seriousness in his eyes.

"You disgust me, get the fuck outta my face with that bullshit. I can't even believe that just came out your mouth!" I barked at him from my chair making everyone turn around and stare. But to be honest no fucks are given after the bullshit he just said.

"Yo I'm gonna give you a pass and blame it on the amnesia homie because the Riley I know would never say no fuck shit like that" Jay said backing me up and trying to diffuse the situation before it got ugly.

Him throwing out govs which meant shit was serious. Jay's the peacemaker between between Boogz and I, it's been that way for years. Because Boogz is the youngest the nigga can be impulsive and reckless, Jay has always been the one to catch him before shit got too out of hand. 

"This is shit YOU caused, NOBODY would have been here if YOU didn't put us here don't forget that shit when you wanna be so quick to run from the consequences of your actions," I quickly reminded him. This nigga must be stupid if he thinks we're giving up that easy on finding Dutchess. 

"You right my fault, I'm trippin'" Boogz said nooding his head, but I could tell there was more h wanted to say. I'll drop it for now cause if the nigga says some slick shit I'm gonna bust a stitch and proceed to lay hands on him.

Looking around the room everyone has went back to minding their own business except for one nurse. And as my luck would have it she was the one who came around and checked Dutchess' charts periodically.

“Jay don’t make it hot, but that nurse behind you. The thick one ” I said to him making him turn his attention on her. She been eyeing Jay since we got on this floor, but unlike Jay she had tact about scoppin'.

 “Damn that bitch is badder that a 2 year old,” Jay said a little to loud because she shook her head and rolled her eyes at Jay in particular as she made her way towards the elevator. I swear I can’t take his black ass nowhere.

I sucked my teeth and continued; “nigga she was Dutchess’ nurse and the only one that might be able to get any contact info for her. Don’t fuck this up.”

“Nigga, shush!” he said like somebody’s old country grandma, I’m trying so hard to keep from laughing at how serious he got.

Let me work,” he said waving me off then damn near sprinting to catch up with her as she walked into the elevator.

Boogz and I both had to bust out laughing as we watched the door close behind them. “He wasn’t even low” Boogz said in between laughs.

"Yeah whatever nigga," I said to myself something is off about this nigga Boogz and I need to know what before I can laugh and break bread with him again.

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.