I bit my tongue, pushing my words deep down my throat. If I’d been sucking his dick for three years without a commitment, ring, or compensation, my orbs would automatically program themselves to avoid him and anyone who even favored him. However, Brittany wanted to be acknowledged.
Her pride was bruised. Validation was riding her coattail. And, she was still in love with a man who only loved what she offered his life–not her. It was the downfall of so many great women. She was obsessed with the potential of them, not the reality of it all.
Nothing in his past was off limits during my search. My findings proved to be interesting. It confirmed what I already knew about most men. They deserved hell.
“Evening, Brittany,” I responded.
Her attention parted ways with Brandon, momentarily, as she stared at me. Openly observing me. Closely. Harshly. As if I gave a damn.
“How–”
I tipped my head toward her name tag, though I knew her name long before I’d read it.
Chuckling, she loosened her limbs. Her spine curled slightly as that beautiful smile came into full view.
Thinking she’d ever be a topic of conversation for a man who could give two shits about their rendezvous was quite optimistic for her. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the case.
Her heart broke at the realization. Her smile faded. She swallowed back the lump in her throat and rounded the podium.
“This way.”
“I’ma hit the men’s room right quick,” Brandon informed me, planting a kiss on my left cheek.
“Okay.”
“I’ll find you when I come out.”
“Okay.”
I continued behind Brittany, catching up to her with ease. Heaviness kept her feet from moving as fast as they normally would. I was sure. Defeat was written all over her frame.
“Don’t do that,” I demanded, stopping her in her tracks.
“Excuse me?”
“That.”
“What is that exactly?”
“Give a man a chance to darken your spirit.”
Continuing, she sniggered. “I’m not sure what you’re referring to.”
I wasn’t easily swayed. We reached the table and before I had a seat, I turned Brittany’s body toward mine with a single hand to her shoulder. I entered her personal space, wanting to make sure she heard every word that came from my mouth.
“The next time you decide to suck dick until your nose is snotty and your cheeks are stained with tears, make sure it’s for a man who would turn the city red behind you. Brandon isn’t that man. You’re a pretty girl.
“And, from what I have discovered, you’ve got a good head on your shoulders–literally and figuratively. He will run his play when he leaves the restroom, just in case this date doesn’t work in his favor. Just for you, love, I will make sure it ends on a shitty note. But, not before I eat.
“Tonight is when you take your power back. I don’t want to find out you were sliding down his dick by sunrise. I’ll be very disappointed in you. Deny him. Confidently. Surely. As a matter of fucking fact. You undersand?”
“I– uh–”
“I don’t care, Brittany. Do you understand?”
She nodded. “Yes.”
“Good. And, congratulations on your nursing degree. Expect a gift at your door by the end of the week for your accomplishments,including regaining the upper hand. Never give that to a man again. Not even the pastor at your church.”
