“So, how many niggas on your roster, Cali?”
“Now, why would you need to know that?”
“Because.” He glanced at her. “I’m trying to see who I gotta bully.”
Smirking, she shot, “Now why would your very married ass need to bully anyone on my roster? Did you forget you belong to someone else?”
“No, I didn’t forget.” He adjusted his diamond watch on his wrist. “But that shit ain't relevant right now.”
Her brows peaked on her lightly made-up face. “Oh really?”
“Yeah, baby. I told you we legally separated. That shit has paperwork on it.”
“You still that lady’s husband,” she joked.
He grinned, causing her to laugh harder. “Don't get fucked up, Cali. I know what I am but I’m not focused on that right now. I’m concern with this bad-ass chocolate girl who got my fucking nose wide open.”
Cali was smitten but she had to remind herself that this man was just a temporary wave she was riding.
“Where we going, Rule?”
“To a place where you can relax and have fun. You cool with that?”
Bobbing her head, she replied, “Sure.”
While Rule navigated the streets of Diamond Falls, Cali took in the city, marveling at all the new gems she’d discovered. Rule pulled in front of a club where the line was around the building. He got out and helped Cali out of the car.
“What is this?” she asked, grabbing her jacket from her seat.
“A comedy club,” he answered, leading them to the door.
Rule shook hands with the guard and was granted access. The place was filled with beautiful Black people that were dressed in the finest threads. While they maneuvered through the packed club, people made it their business to greet him. Men and women smiled in his face, hoping to gain some of his attention. Rule found them a table in the corner of the room. They weren’t too far from the stage but wasn’t first row either.
“You good, Cali?” he asked, adjusting his diamond chain.
“Yeah, are you? You real popular tonight.”
He smacked his lips. “I’m popular every night. I keep telling you I’m the mayor ‘round this bitch.”
Playfully, she rolled her eyes. “Your cocky ass swear.”
“You know what it is.”
The drinks flowed like water while they nibbled on appetizers. The comedians were entertaining, pulling several laughs from Cali. After the comedy show, the couple left and went to Rule’s lounge where she got to indulge in hookah.
“You trying to spend the night with me, Cali?”
Slitting her eyes, she asked. “Is it safe?”
“Why wouldn’t it be?”
“Because you're not a single man. Your wife could have access to your place, and I don't need to be caught up in no situation.”
He laid his hand on her thigh. “I ain't no messy nigga. When I say my place that means mine only. I’m the only person who has access, so, yes, you're safe.”
She nodded. “Okay, cool.”
“Look, I got some shit to handle so I’ma drop you off. When I’m done, you can meet me at my spot. I know your ass wanna be able to leave when you want.” He smirked.