There is a group of women on the dance floor, clearly celebrating a birthday as evidenced by the sparklers and whistles surrounding them. A warm smile forms as I head toward the bar to grab my first drink. Due to my work-from-home job, I don’t have any friends outside my relationship with Korrena, who also doubles as my cousin and best friend. As I watch the group of women, a pang of tenderness stretches across my chest, not having anyone to be reckless with. Maybe it’s something else I can focus on after my move.
“Can I get a?—”
“Lemon drop martini with Grey Goose and Grand Marnier instead of triple sec.” My skin instantly heats when I hear a familiar baritone voice completing my drink order.
“Nah, little bit prefers Titos with a splash of cranberry juice,” another male voice counters, and I close my eyes from the sound of it.
How in the hell did I manage to come out and run into these two niggas? Ugh. This is why the hell I’m getting my ass out of dodge.
I jump at the feel of contact on the left and right sides of me as I slowly peel my eyes open and look from left to right. Dan and Dinowear matching smirks that I want to slap off their sexy faces. I unknowingly was dating identical twins who got off on playing games with unsuspecting women. I thought I was dating Dino but didn’t realize that Dan would often slip into his brother’s shoes. The reminder of the blowup with these sick mothafuckas has me throwing my hands up and foregoing my plans before I can settle into a seat.
“You know what, nope. I ain’t even about to do this bullshit tonight. I told Korrena . . .” My words trail off as I leave the bar with my sour stomach and a deep frown.
Ain’t no way in hell I’m about to explore this lounge with my past in the same room. I quickly exit the lounge and head toward the lot where my car is parked.
“This is why I should have stayed my ass home and started the process of packing for my move.”
My phone vibrates in my pocket, and I retrieve it to see Korrena’s name on the screen.
Korrena: I’ve arranged for a family dinner at Olive Garden two weeks from tomorrow. It’s either gonna be a celebration of you changing your mind or a farewell shindig. You can inform all of us tomorrow.
I simplygive a thumbs-up and put my phone back in my pocket. The farewell dinner with my family is in order because thanks to Dan and Dino, my decision is final. I’m not sure how things will go, because neither Mom nor my big brother LaKendric is aware of my plans.
“Don’t forgetthat I’m only a stone’s throw away. Let mothafuckas know that you have a big brother who will fuck shit up behind you,” LaKendric says as his arms tighten around my body, instantly enveloping me in his strength.
“I know.”
LaKendric is only three years older than me and is the reason I’m not worried or fearful about reestablishing myself in a new city.
“I know work isn’t why you’re leaving, but don’t let desperation have you slipping and sliding in pussy waters. If shit gets too bad, call me, and I’ll have one of my jump-offs send you a few rubber dicks and a singing dickgram.”
A bubble of laughter falls from my mouth when I look up and see LaKendric’s smirk and the merriment in his dark eyes.
“I’ll pass on both. But thanks for the offer.”
The last thing I need is a hookup from my brother or whatever woman is vying for his affections.
“Alright. But if you come home for a visit with a chick on your arm, I’m gonna know that Ma got her wish. Be strong, Sis.”
I laugh again because LaKendric has been taunting me about Doretha since Mom tried to push me off on her.
“Never that. I’m strictly dickly.”
“Mhm. Word around town is that Doretha is rocking a nine-inch hammer, and from the women on her arm all the time, she might know how to work it.”
“Bye, LaKendric.” I step out of his arms and walk toward Mom as his laughter fills my ears.
Yesterday’s surprise farewell dinner with my family went much better than I anticipated. Mom didn’t put up much of a fight since I lied and said my company needed me closer for a few mandatory in-office days. My ability to formulate a lie so effortlessly should be studied. But it was necessary to keep Mom from drilling me about my decision.
“What am I gonna do without you nearby?” Mom’s face is a mask of pain as her watery eyes peer into me.
“I’m just a phone call away.” I regurgitate words similar to the ones LaKendric had given me as she pulls me into her chest.
My heart races as I fight the urge to let the tears welling in my eyes spill over. Kaigood isn’t that far, so I’m optimistic that I’ll come home for visits once I get myself settled. Over the last fourteen days, I have been extremely busy preparing formy relocation. I sold all my furniture since my new temporary residence comes fully furnished. For now, I’m even going to use the bed set up in one of the two bedrooms.
Thankfully, there is an empty second bedroom I’m excited to set up as an office like the one I have now. The only things I kept were my clothes, shoes, and the mini standing desk thing I will use to work on. Thanks to the people who bought my belongings, I have money in the bank when it’s time to purchase new items.
“If you need me, don’t hesitate to call me. No matter the day or the hour, I’m here, Dee.” Mom’s voice is choppy as she pulls me back to look into my eyes.
