Savio held her gaze for a moment. Her eyes told him a story of pain and struggle. He knew it all too well.
“I feel that,” he murmured, repeating her earlier statement.
The corners of her mouth twitched before she focused back on her plate. They ate in silence for a moment before she asked, “What were you in prison for?”
“Drugs. I was doin’ it real big before I went in. My lawyers got me off with only five years. I saw that as a second chance because I really should have been in there for life without parole, all the shit I did. That’s why I cleaned up my act, and I’m here playing bodyguard to yo’ stubborn ass.”
Cashmere giggled, and Savio had to do a double take. He had yet to hear her laugh, and he decided right then and there that he loved the sound.
“You do realize I’m a criminal, right? You didn’t get as far removed from the streets as you think.”
“Cell gave me his word that we’re untouchable though.”
Cashmere nodded slowly. “That, we are. Touché.”
“Why, though?”
“Why what?” She stiffened slightly again, which made Savio even more curious.
“Why are y’all so untouchable? How? Where I’m from, no nigga is safe if they’re doin’ dirt. Don’t matter who it is.”
Cashmere shrugged. He could tell she was searching for a lie to tell him, but she got saved by Ivoree entering the kitchen.
“Smells so good,” Ivoree said as she made a beeline for the plate on the counter. “This for me?”
“Yeah. I knew you had to be at the clinic early and wanted to make sure you had a warm meal on your stomach,” Cashmere said. Savio could tell she was grateful for the distraction.
Ivoree walked over to Cashmere with her plate in hand and leaned down to kiss her cheek. “Thanks, Sis. Morning, Sav.”
“Morning. How are things goin’ with Twizz?” Savio asked as Ivoree sat down next to him.
Ivoree dug into her food like she was in a rush. “It’s cool. Bit of an adjustment. People just think he’s an obsessive boyfriend or something since he’s always around now.”
Cashmere grunted at that.
Savio shrugged. “Let them think what they want. Long as he’s doing his job.”
“He is. He’s been very respectful, and he’s taking it seriously, from what I can tell. He does let me drive my own car though. After the first day, I been driving myself around. He’ll ride shotgun sometimes or follow me in his car sometimes,” Ivoree pointed out.
“You’re a low-level security risk, so that’s fine. Even with you driving, there are several men following you at all times. You’re good.”
Ivoree’s shoulders seemed to droop at that. “Good to know.”
“Let me find out you want to be a passenger princess. I’ll trade with you,” Cashmere joked.
“I’m just sayin’, it would be nice.” Ivoree shrugged before her phone buzzed. She looked at it and hopped up. “I have to get going. Can you put this in the fridge for me?”
“I got you. Don’t forget we’re taking the day off tomorrow. Sister day,” Cashmere reminded Ivoree.
“I remember. Bye, love you!” Ivoree said as she rushed out of the kitchen.
“That girl is always on the go,” Cashmere muttered.
“Like her big sister,” Savio said.
Cashmere stood up with her half-empty plate. She grabbed Ivoree’s and wrapped them both in foil before she put them in the refrigerator. “I’m going to get ready for the day, and then we can get going. I have a full day, so we need to stop for gas first.”
“I’ll handle that so we’re ready to go by the time you’re done getting ready.” Savio ate the last of his food and stood, his stomach nice and full.
