I didn’t answer.
But my silence was enough.
“Then get clean,” he said firmly. “Follow what Ares and I say. Falling in love with this nigga or not?” he added. “That part is your choice.”
I glanced toward Ares again.
Still leaning against the wall.
Still silent.
Zay continued.
“But right now, you act like his bride. And you prepare yourself for a queen role.”
Queen.
The word felt ridiculous in my mouth.
“I never asked for any of this,” I whispered again.
Zay’s face softened. The big brother role replaced the strategist for a moment.
He stood up and pulled me into a hug.
“I know,” he said quietly.
My eyes burned.
“I love you,” he continued. “And I would never put you in harm’s way.”
My arms wrapped around him tightly.
“You live royal now,” he said softly. “Comfortable. Safe. Enjoy it.”
A tear slipped down my cheek before I could stop it.
He pulled back. And dropped the bomb.
“Mom and Dad are coming here tomorrow night.”
I turned up my nose.
“For what?”
“Dinner.”
I rolled my eyes. “I don’t want to see Dad.”
“Shit, me either. He still owes me.”
“I don’t want to see Mom either.”
“We are on the same page, lil sis. Just know that.”
Zay sighed.
“But you need to play your role. They won’t be around much longer anyway.”
