I nod because that’s one statement that I doubt Caziya realizes how true its meaning is. If I have it my way, she’ll never return to her apartment. Hell, I’ll even have a moving company come pack her up so she has no reason to go back. Now, I just have to figure out how to implement my plan for the future.
Zakai:
Hey, Ziya. Do you have any plans this evening?
My glass hoversin front of my lips as I read the text from Zakai. It’s been two weeks since Zakiyah went home from the hospital. I thought I was gonna have to make a secret call to RPD, because Zakai didn’t want me to leave his house. Zakiyah didn’t help with her crocodile tears and cute pout. But I had to get to my apartment to clean, do laundry, and give my man the time he doesn’t realize he needs.
Zakai:
I can see that you read my message. What’s good, Caziya?
The double text has a smirk sliding into place as I respond to his inquiry.
Me:
Not that I’m aware of. I've cleaned my apartment, finished my second load of laundry, and am now enjoying an adult beverage. You can’t possibly be missing me already.
Zakai:
I missed you the minute the door closed behind you. But since you have nothing planned, my parents have invited you to dinner tonight.
Dinner with Zakai’s parents. My brain reels, and I drink the contents in my glass while silently analyzing the meaning of such an invitation. I get lost in my thoughts so long that I don’t realize how much time has passed when another text comes through from Zakai.
Zakai:
If it’ll make you less anxious and ready to decline, bring your aunt. It’s our normal family dinner, and if having your family with you will make it more bearable, then invite her. Although I want you there, I also want you to be comfortable.
I sigh, and the tension I didn’t realize in my shoulders eases as I reply.
Me:
Okay. Could you please provide me with their address and the time we should arrive? I’m going to call Aunt Emmy now.
Zakai:
51528 Cherry Bottom Circle. Dinner is at six-thirty.
Me:
Okay. I’ll see you then. I love you. Kiss Kiki for me.
Zakai:
Say less. I love you more, and I will.
Once I exit the thread, I dial Aunt Emmy’s number and hope she’s free for the evening, as I need her to join me for dinner.
“Hello, Bunny. How’s my favorite girl?” Aunt Emmy greets.
Her voice is the warm, cheery greeting that instantly wraps me in a tight embrace as the feeling of home surrounds me. It’s the feeling I never want to let go and the one I cherish more than anything.
“I’m good. I was wondering if you’re free this evening. I need a favor.”
“I don’t do favors, Bunny. If it’s within my ability, I will always do it for you. What’s going on?"
Aunt Emmy has always been the person I can count on no matter what the circumstances are. For that and her unyielding love for me, I’m grateful.
“I just got an invitation to have dinner with Zakai and his parents.”
