Page 54 of Rousing Renee

“We’re having sex though, Renee.”

“Very vanilla sex.”

“Okay.” Ezra sat up and moved to lean against the headboard.

“Forget that I said anything,” I mumbled.

“You did, though. That means you’re not happy. So we need to make some adjustments.”

“Don’t worry about it. I’ll handle it.” Nervously, I inched over.

“Handle it? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I’ll cope. You’ll figure yourself out and so will I. Heal however you need to.” I paused, knowing I needed to say more. I was supposed to be doing things differently this time. That meant communicating even when it hurts. “Does it suck? It does. But it’s not just about me.”

“Or me. Which is why I said I’ll make adjustments.”

“Okay. Until then, I’ll figure it out.” I sighed, stood up, and got dressed. “I have some things I need to take care of; are we still on for dinner?” I asked. It was Sunday and tomorrow officially marked our last week of class.

“Of course. We’ll talk more about this later.” He wasn’t asking.

I shrugged. “Sure.” I kissed him quickly and left his apartment.

I had rehearsal in a couple of hours, which gave me time to myself. I hurried home and changed clothes. Then I grabbed my duffle bag and went to the gym. Until we figured things out, this was going to be my best friend.

When I walked into the rehearsal space, I shrieked when Sampson was sitting there waiting for me.

“Hey, diva,” he said as I ran to him and hugged him tightly.

“Damn it’s good to see you.” I knew I was smiling from ear to ear. I missed his crazy ass.

“It better be. Honey, you and this class better have it together. Some of those videos you sent were making me question this entire thing. They are not about to like me.”

I’d cut three of the girls and thank god they were good at hair and makeup.

“We’ll find out soon, won’t we?”

“Indeed. Plus, we’re probably going to have to work in a few extra practices. I know you’ve been doing your thing, but their performance is this coming Friday. It’s time to show me the money.”

The door opened and in walked the girls.

“Are these the rest of the divas?” he asked.

“Mhm.”

“And where did y’all get the food and drink set up? It’s nice.”

“Ezra.”

“Mhm. Am I going to meet him while I’m here?”

“You will.” I smiled.

“Ooh. I see the love chiming right on through you and buzzing around in the air.”

The word love caught me off guard. It wasn’t love, right? Just good old-fashioned dating.

“Ladies, gather round. I’m Sampson, your choreographer. I know you don’t know me but?—”

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