“Thank you.”
He engulfed her with a hug, smearing the scent of his Tom Ford cologne on her. He pulled back, displaying lust in his orbs.
“Beautiful ass,” he teased. “Have a seat.”
Cali slid into the booth and Rule did the same. A waitress came to the table with appetizers and drinks. She was impressed that Rule had remembered what kind of drink she liked.
“Look at you, taking notes.” She winked.
“I got a good memory, especially when it involves a beauty like you.”
Cali loved the way his maroon cardigan hugged his body. The color paired well with his cedar skin.
“I ain't gon’ lie, I thought you was going to play me.”
She took a sip of her drink then asked, “Why is that?”
“Because you didn’t give me no pushback. You agreed too easily so I felt you were on bullshit. I’m glad to see that I was wrong.” He grinned at her.
“I’m learning to keep my word, Rule.”
His thick brows rose. “So, you haven’t always been a stand-up girl?”
Shaking her head, Cali confessed, “No, I used to tell people what they wanted to hear. Now, I don't do that. I choose to be honest.”
Rule leaned forward, arms folded on top of the table. “What you looking for, Cali?”
She licked her glossy lips, mulling over his question. At this present time, she wanted to get back to the essence of who she was. She wanted her happiness again and she didn’t want it tied to a man. Those were her inner thoughts and she’d quickly decided not to share them with Rule. He hadn’t earned the right to know her private reflections.
“I want to have fun.”
“Fun?” He simpered, staring at her lips. “What kind of fun?”
“Grown people fun. I don't want no strings attached either.” She made it clear. “Just good ol’ wholesome fun. No questions asked. You know what I mean?”
“Yeah, I can dig that.” He reclined, taking her in with his mocha eyes. “You sexy as hell, Cali. I smell trouble on yo’ lil’ ass.”
She tittered while reaching for an oyster. “I’m not trouble at all and if I happen to be… I’m good trouble.” She slurped the oyster in her mouth while looking at him.
Trance activated…
Cali was amused. Men were so easy to pull under a spell.
“Man,” he drawled, making her snicker. “You ‘bout to have a nigga out here bad, Cali. Stop doing that shit.”
“What shit?” she feigned innocence.
“That enticing shit. You think I don't see it?”
“I have no idea what you're talking about, Rule. I’m just being me.”
“Yeah, a’ight. Can I have you for more than just dinner?”
She angled her head, liking the possibility of spending more time with him.
“Maybe, let’s play it by ear.”
His head tipped back as he laughed. “Maybe? Listen, baby, don't nobody tell me maybe. It’s yes only.”
