“Nothing. I’m just tired.”
“Joi, are you mad because we’re so late?” Nyelle felt bad. She had planned to get back earlier, but she got lost in being with Vega and time slipped away.
“Shit, that’s my fault. I shouldn’t have kept her so long.” Vega’s eyes moved between the two women, hoping things were good.
“No, I promise it’s not that. You know I don’t mind. Stop tripping. Nick was fine. He’s knocked out. I ate all your snacks, and now I’m going home,” Joi joked, flashing them both a smile.
Vega chuckled, fooled by the front she put on, but Nyelle knew her girl.
“I’m gonna walk her out. Can you give me a minute before you go?”
“Do your thing. I appreciate you letting me have some time with your girl, Joi. I owe you.”
After collecting her purse and keys, Joi smirked at Vega. “Yes, you do, and I will be holding on to that favor.”
He laughed, shaking his head. “Damn, that sounds like I just set myself up.”
“That’s facts, sir.”
Joi headed to the door with Nyelle right on her heels. Once they were outside, Nyelle pulled the door closed.
“Please tell me you’re not mad at me. I really am sorry.”
“Girl, no. It’s not you. It’s East’s stupid ass.” Joi rolled her eyes.
“He messing up already?”
“I don’t know, but I’m about to find out. I’m damn sure not about to waste any more time on a man not worth it.”
“I agree. If he’s playing, cancel the game, Joi, real shit. I don’t care how fine he is or how dizzy the dick made you.” Nyelle grinned at her girl, hoping to get her to smile, and it worked.
“I hate you.”
“I hate you too.” Nyelle blew Joi a kiss. “Text me to let me know you made it home.”
“Why, so you can ignore it because the dick has you dizzy?” Joi was already heading toward the elevator but looked over her shoulder and stuck her tongue out at Nyelle, who shot her bird before heading back inside. Vega lifted his eyes from his phone once Nyelle was inside again.
“She good?”
“Yep.”
“You sure?”
“Yes, she’s fine, but it's late, so you probably should be going.” Nyelle had enjoyed her evening with Vega and didn’t necessarily want him to leave, but she knew it was dangerous for him to stay. She was weak for this man already. The more time she spent around him, in his presence and under his spell, the more addicted she became.
“You’re right.” Vega didn’t move and neither did Nyelle.
They simply stood, staring at each other with only a few feet separating them, tortured by the fact that neither of them wanted to make the final call to end the evening.
Vega was the first to move, reaching for Nyelle and bringing her into his personal space then wrapping her into a hug.
“Tonight was different, but in a good way. Thank you.”
“Why are you thanking me?” Nyelle grinned and tilted her head back so she could take him in.
“Because you’re showing me different versions of myself and I like what I see. I like who I am with you. Got a real one blushing and shit.” Vega’s smile prompted one from Nyelle just before he delivered a kiss so perfect that they both found themselves so lost in the feeling. Neither of them realized they weren’t alone until the sound of a gun chambering caused them to separate.
“Swear ’fore God, if you don’t back the fuck up, I’m gonna blow your fucking brains all over this damn condo.”
