“Me too,” she agreed. She stood and took a few steps before turning back.“Oh, and I hate to ask, but is it possible to get a few extra cases of diapers and formula for Courtney? She has a newborn, and she could really use that stuff.”
“Yeah, of course, say less,” Cass stated.“I’lldrop it off personally later tonight.”
Sloan beamed.“Thank you.”
“Don’t mention it.”
Sloan walked away, but a large part of her wanted to stay right there in the cold with him. She had entered the conversation with so much anxiety, but she was walking away with peace. He was a good listener, and she hated that she couldn’t just keep talking to him. She glanced back once more before going inside, and she smiled as she watched Brooklyn and Tessa fawn all over him. She was glad that they had been able to clear the air because he felt like a friend in the making. An unexpected friend that she didn’t see coming.
Chapter 5
Girl, get your ass off that live!” Courtney snapped.
“Okay, y’all, I’ve got to go because my girls are waiting for me, but it’s not too late to come support this amazing event. If you can’t make it or want to support from afar, don’t forget to hit that Cash App. The money will go to a great cause. Love y’all,byeeee.” Shy signed off the live and put her phone in her bag.
“Okay, bitch, now catch up, you two shots down,” Ellie said.“Your ass, too,” she added as Sloan walked up.
Courtney laughed as Sloan and Shy took their shots like champs.
“This feels so good. It’s been so long since we’ve all been together. So, today was charity; what’s tomorrow’sFriendsmas activity?” she asked.
“We’re going to pick out and chop down Christmas trees tomorrow,” Shy informed.
“Oh, the girls would have loved that, but they’re going to be with their dad. Cairo is picking them up from here,” Ellie whined.
“That’s okay, girl. Bring Papa if you want. Invite Cass. Bring the baby and James. Like, it’sa family thing,” Shy informed.“I’m going to bring my assistant, Lola. She’s great with kids. She can even watch the baby if you ever need her to, Court,” Shy offered.
“Thanks, Shy, but he’s still so young, and I don’t know her like that,” Courtney stated.
“Well, Brooklyn can watch him for a few hours whenever you need her to. She loves babies, and she’s good with them. She can do it right at your house so you’re comfortable,” Ellie volunteered.
“Yeah, that sounds like a better option, honestly. If I need her, I’lllet you know,” Courtney said.
“Don’t hesitate,” Ellie added.“Even if you just need a break or need a nap or an extra set of hands while we’re in town. It’s no big deal. We’re here to help.” Ellie’s phone rang, and she rolled her eyes when Cairo’s name popped onto the screen.
“Cairo is here for the girls. I’llbe right back,” Ellie said as she slid out of the booth.
He met her at the door, and Ellie’s feet stopped moving when she saw his girlfriend enter behind him. The disrespect it took to bring her inside was astounding.
“Where’s Brook? I told her to be waiting out front for me,” Cairo stated.
“Hello to you too, Cai,” Ellie spoke.“How dare you bring her in here. And the bitch don’t got no manners. She can’t speak?”
“This is why I didn’t want to agree to do this because you can’t handle it,” Cairo stated.
“I can’t handle it? I’ve sent you divorce papers how many times? I’m not the one dragging my feet on making this official. That’s you. You can’t trap me into staying married and then flaunt this bitch at the same time,” Ellie hissed.
“I’m just here for my daughter,” Cairo stated.
“Daughter?”Ellie questioned.
“Yes, I’m only taking Brook. She’s my blood. I don’t owe the rest of y’all nothing,” Cairo stated.
“Over my dead fucking body,” Ellie whispered harshly. Their body language spoke volumes, and Cairo towered over Ellie’s small frame menacingly. It felt too much like a threat, and the tension in the air had the entire building on edge. Loyal came to her side.
“You good over here?” Loyal asked, stepping in between them, staring Cairo down with intention. If looks could kill.
“Who the fuck is this?” Cairo asked, elevating his voice.
