Page 101 of Rather: The Therapist

“He didn’t. But, he will. This session was more about gaining his trust. We’ll work on the more complicated stuff when we nail this.”

“Right. Right. I had my accountant wire a nice amount to your account. That should cover him for at least a full year.”

With a smile and a tilted head, I asked, “How much did you wire, Mr. Valentine?”

“Six figures.”

With a nod, I waved my hand toward the door. “Right this way.”

“Hopefully that’s enough.”

“It’ll work.”

Six figures was enough to cover fifty-two sessions. In fact, it was more than enough. However, I wouldn’t open my mouth to tell him that. I opted for staying quiet and walking him out of the door. I rushed back inside to grab my belongings and met Kleigh at her car where she’d been waiting.

“Are you excited? Wedding dresses. My God, I’ve dreamt of my wedding preparations for years. I can’t wait until my time comes.”

“Whoever he is will be a lucky man.”

Kleigh reminded me so much of Range. Wholesome. Bubbly, depending on her surroundings. Sociable. Kind-hearted. Optimistic.

“You think so?” She pursed her lips as she sped off.

“Wholeheartedly.”

EIGHT

I scrolled, checking the sizes of each item in the cart to make sure they were accurate before entering my debit card information at checkout. The Chanel sneakers Rather had scuffed was one of twelve items in the cart I’d filled.

After the confirmation screen appeared, I sat back in the chair at my office desk. The void I felt when I’d entered the sacred space remained. Spending a little bread on her did little to cure the longing in my head and heart.

11:56pm.

Visions of thick sheets, an oversized comforter, and long, brown legs that were freshly shaved and moisturized invaded my thoughts. I closed my eyes, knowing exactly where I wanted to be and who I wanted to share the rest of my night with.

Not at The Mansion, but at mine. Or hers.

Fuck.

My buzzing cell freed me of my transgressions. Silk’s name on the screen could only mean one of two things. Neither were good. I answered with haste.

“Yeah.”

Up on my feet, I began to pace the room before words even escaped him. I’d gotten a call from him two years ago that nearly shattered my world. Seeing his name was triggering.

Kofi.

“Aye, yo, Boss man.”

“I’m listening, Silk.”

“Them niggas from the East that Kofi bumped heads with are in the building.”

“And–”

“So is Kofi. He was toasted before he stumbled through the door. I’m watching that nigga and making sure he’s straight, but I can already tell what type of time these niggas on and they didn’t come alone.”

“How many?”

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