“She convinced me to sign up for one of the monthly membership programs, although it didn’t take much convincing,” I told Melodie.
“You won’t regret it. Did she tell you that your hair appointments can be included in the membership?” Melodie asked.
“Umm, no. She left that part out.”
“There are too many benefits to remember,” Raine said.
After I signed up for the highest membership package, Raine and Melodie walked out with me.
“Girl, Noelani told us what happened. Physically, you look good, but how are you dealing with it up here?” Raine asked, pointing to her head.
“It’s definitely affected me mentally. I still haven’t been back to my apartment, but overall, I’m good.”
“Did they find him yet?” Melodie asked.
“Actually, they must have found him last night or this morning; otherwise, I wouldn’t be here alone. Russell has had me on lockdown since it happened.”
“As he should. Listen, our men don’t play about us, and it can be overwhelming sometimes, but at least we know how they’re coming behind us,” Melodie said.
“You right.”
“Do you carry?” Raine asked.
“Carry what?”
“A gun,” they responded in unison.
“Umm, no. I’ve never even touched a gun.”
Raine shook her head while Melodie folded her arms across her chest.
“How about your sisters?” Raine asked.
I shook my head. “Not that they’ve told me.”
“Bet. I’ll have Breeze talk to Russ about scheduling y’all for some concealed carry classes. We gotta be able to protect ourselves too, girl,” Melodie said.
“We sure do. Had Noelani not been carrying, her situation might’ve ended much differently,” Raine said.
About a year ago, Noelani shot one of her coworkers in self-defense. He was obsessed with her and, unbeknownst to her, had been following her.
“So, are you and Russ back together?” Raine asked.
“Right. We won’t talk about how you played in that man’s face,” Melodie added.
“We are officially together. No games this time, but I had my reasons.”
My tone had become serious, and they both looked at me with concern.
“We won’t pry, and we know you got a gang of sisters, but if you ever need to talk, we’re here,” Raine offered.
“You damn right we are,” Melodie agreed.
I thanked them, and we embraced before I headed to my car. It felt good to be out and about, not having to worry about my safety. When I got in my car, and my phone had connected to Bluetooth, I called Russell.
“Hey, beautiful,” he answered.
“Hey. Are you home?”
