Page 43 of Crown: Phase 4

“Where we going, handsome?” Nivéa smiled at him.

“You’ll see.”

She narrowed her eyes. “Ahmad.”

“Ma, go get your Birkin and let’s ride.”

Kerri laughed, watching them with a fond smile. They reminded her of how she and Ahmad Sr. used to be. The playful teasing and the way Crown looked at Nivéa brought back so many memories of when she and her husband were just as crazy about each other.

“Girl, go. What I told ya behind? Enjoy your husband. Sometimes you just gotta ride out with him. No questions asked.”

“Facts. Tell her, Mama.” Crown nodded.

Snickering at the advice, Nivéa walked over to kiss Kerri on the cheek, then leaned down to kiss Nyla before grabbing her handbag from the couch. “Mama will be back soon, baby. Daddy is taking me somewhere.”

“I know that’s right. That’s more like it.” Kerri blushed as Nyla made a soft sound in her arms.

As they headed out, Nivéa noticed Kerri’s luggage by the entrance where she had left it. Curiosity piqued, but she didn’t ask any questions. That was his mama; she was always welcome.

Outside, the Lamborghini’s scissor doors were already raised. Crown had chosen this one because he’d had it professionally armored. He helped Nivéa settle into the leather passenger seat before walking around to the driver’s side and pulling off. Once they left the quiet neighborhood, his demeanor shifted. He drove with one hand on the wheel, the other resting in his lap with his finger wrapped around the trigger of his gun. His focus was intense.

Though his ride was bulletproof, Crown’s eyes were constantly scanning…intersections, cars behind and beside them. Every turn registered in his mind. Even in an attempt to relax, the streets had trained him otherwise, especially in the current climate.

Nivéa picked up on his tension. “You working right now or you with me, baby?” She asked, eyeing the gun resting in his lap.

Crown glanced over at her. “What you mean?”

“You got that look.”

“What look?”

“That Crown look. Like you preparing to tear some shit up.”

He chuckled, switching lanes. “Can’t help it. You just never know. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.”

“I know. I’m just messing with you.”

Nivéa reached over and rested her hand on his, taking Kerri’s advice to enjoy him while she could. Crown glanced down at her hand for a moment before lifting it to his lips and kissing it softly, then covering it with his hand. Their rings sparkled beautifully, making his heart race with every beat. He’d do any fucking thing to protect this love.

“I wanted to talk to you too, ma.”

“Okay, about what?”

“Mama’s gon’ be staying with us for a lil minute. I’m not sure how long, but just until I’m done handling my business. She’ll be in the guest home, so you’ll still have your space, and she’ll have hers.”

“I’m not worried about space, baby. You know I love your mama. I’m happy to have her around.”

“Yeah, ’cause you know she’s gon’ take Ny’s fussy butt off your hands.”

Nivéa giggled, playfully smacking his shoulder. “Whatever.”

As their conversation shifted, she leaned her head back against the seat. The drive continued with easy conversation, allowing them both to relax. Crown stole glances at her now and then, feeling pride settle in his chest. Seeing her smile and hearing her laugh was exactly what he had wanted when he decided to get her out of the house. That shit was the highlight of his day.

After about twenty minutes, Crown drove into the parking lot of a nice spa. Nivéa looked out the window, impressed by how elegant the building and area were. She held onto that feeling as they walked inside, and her smile grew even wider. The inside was even more beautiful than the outside and smelled just as good as it looked. She quickly spotted a nail salon area, which wasn’t necessary since she had just gotten her nails done for the reception. It would be more like a treat.

The place was quiet, apart from the old school R&B music flowing from the speakers. Nivéa blushed, realizing that had to be Crown’s request. She realized no other guests were present either. A woman behind the desk smiled when she saw them.

“Hi, I’m Kathy. You must be Mr. and Mrs. Knight.”