“Why? Are you going to?”
“No, but that doesn’t mean you can’t change.”
“I’m not going to change. We’re wasting time. What is this have to do with anything?”
“Ok. I have to warn you my parents will be there too, and my mom might ask you for money, just so you know.”
“I think I can handle myself.”
“I don’t think you can’t. I just wanted you to know and know that I don’t expect you to give it to her if she asks. I would prefer if you didn’t or she will keep asking.”
“Noted. Let’s go.”
****
Dante arrived at Henry’s place and followed Madison up the apartment steps. Henry’s place was better than what Madison was living in thanks to Madison. It made Dante sick how her family took advantage of her and played on her sense of duty.
He hadn’t seen one of them offer to help her with anything. But she was out there busting her butt and willing to give up her chance at what she wanted most for her brother, who had given up what for her?
She knocked on the door. He remembered her being embarrassed at catching him having sex with Sabrina and figured to be on the safe side she wasn’t using the key. He couldn’t resist teasing her though.
“I think if your parents are there you won’t catch him doing anything.”
Her face darkened, and she looked at him with widened eyes. “Thanks for reminding me, not. I’m not using my key so my mom doesn’t know Henry and I have keys to each other’s places. If she did, she would make a copy and come into my place when I’m not there.”
The door opened, and there stood a tall bald black man. It made sense that Henry was tall because he had been a pro basketball player.
“Hey, glad you could make it.” He gave Madison a hug and then extended a hand to Dante. “Henry.”
“Dante.”
“It’s nice to finally meet the man that is making my sister so happy. Come on in. Our parents are back in the living room.”
Dante trailed behind. He didn’t like others walking behind him. He liked to be in the back so he could take everything in. He might not enforce or get his hands dirty, but he still had the family way ingrained in him.
The living room was furnished with black furniture and blue accent pieces. It was neat. A pet peeve of Dante’s was messy places. On the sofa was an older gentleman. He knew he was tall even though he was seated. As far as Dante could tell, Henry resembled their father.
Madison took after her mother and he could see why Madison’s dad gave her everything she wanted to the detriment of his daughter. She was shorter than Madison but still had a trim figure. Her hair was the same reddish brown that Madison’s was and her eyes were hazel, which explained Madison’s gold flecks.
He knew her dad was sick so he walked over and leaned down to shake his hand. “Hi sir, I’m Dante.”
“Madison’s boyfriend. You know she’s never had a boyfriend before. I hope you’re treating her well.”
Dante looked at Madison. He hadn’t known he was her first relationship. But he believed she had been saving herself.
“Dad.” Her eyes were big and imploring. “Way to embarrass me.”
“I just want to make sure he knows and doesn’t try to take advantage of you. I know how these young fellows behave.”
“Milford, that’s enough.” Madison’s mom stood. “I’m Elaine. It’s nice to meet you.”
Dante went to shake her hand and she stepped inside his arms and gave him a hug that was too friendly. Dante had an idea as to why Madison never had a boyfriend.
“Why not a hug?” She looked up at him and tried to rub against his crotch area. He stepped back, setting her away from him.
“We’re close to family.” She patted his chest, unwilling to take the hint. “You smell nice. Is that newest high-end cologne from France? The name eludes me.”
“Yes.”
