Page 104 of Tainted

Novastepped onto the stage in that silver outfit, and the crowd hushed for a second. Her hands swept through the air like a conductor leading an orchestra, and her body followed in perfect rhythm.

She climbed the pole, holding herself on the same shoulders that carried her world just a few hours ago. But you couldn’t tell how Zara twisted her body and slid down the pole as the crowd erupted.

Zara often asked what more I wanted out of life. I wasn’t entirely sure because more was no longer realistic. Now, watching her dance and the smile on her face when she did it topped the list. What I wanted felt less important. Maybe I wasn’t meant to achieve my goals but to help Zara reach hers.

18

Kenyon

“What the fuck?” I snapped, staring at the rubber band that came across my face.

Nolan chuckled while the bills wisped through his fingers.

“What the fuckis right. I’ve been calling you for the last five minutes,” Kross complained.

“Now you see how it feels talking to yo’ ass.”

“If you can’t handle meeting Javier, say it now. We don’t have time for any more shit.”

“I can’t handle it,” I mocked just to piss him off for throwing shit at me.

“Too fuckin’ bad,” Kross groaned.

“He’s too busy looking up,” Shaudi’s voice paused over my shoulder. “Floral arrangement classes. Nigga what?”

Nolan couldn’t help laughing out loud, while Kross’s was subtle.

“You need to schedule a class or two before Blaire replaces yo’ ass with a nigga who does.” My comment wiped the smile off Shaudi’s face.

“Nigga’s plan one date and think they can give advice,” Kross mocked.

“Since you’re such an expert, do something other than work and piss me off,” I fired back.

I had planned dates before, but they usually consisted of reservations at a fancy restaurant with a nice wine menu. Syd was simple which wasn’t a bad thing, it just made planning something for Zara harder. I didn’t know what she loved other than dancing and stealing shit out of my closet, so I started with the things I learned about her.

“More of an expert than you. What do you have planned so far?” Kross’s tone was filled with concern that made me comfortable answering.

“I thought about renting out a dance studio. Dinner. Or a picnic. Movies maybe. I don’t know.”

A half smile spread across his face as Kross grabbed a chair and sat down. He had that Eric Keyes look in his eye that usually accompanied a long-winded speech.

“She dances for a living. It’s thoughtful, but give her something different. Go with the class and plan a picnic. Anybody can make reservations but that shows effort and effort is what women want most. Consistency is next on the list, so don’t start shit you’re not going to keep,” Kross advised. “Considering this is new for you, don’t set the bar too high.”

“Damn Kross. That’s solid advice.” The shock in Shaudi’s voice had Nolan and me laughing. I knew that side of him, but Kross had become cold and stoic since Maliah, so others didn’t.

“I hope you took notes before Blaire gets sick of your shit,” Nolan replied.

“She just likes nagging, pissing me the fuck off,” Shaudi complained.

Kross shook his head, “No woman likes complaining. You’re just not listening, so she has to keep repeating herself.”

“Is the money ready? I need to head out soon.” I asked, checking the time on my watch. We’d discussed feelings more than we ever had in this space, and I needed a change of pace.

“Put your phone down and help,” Kross replied, pushing up on his feet.

I lent an extra set of hands, so I could meet Javier and take my ass home. Zara was frustrated with Megan for giving her so many day shifts, but I wasn’t complaining. Sleeping alone didn’t feel the same anymore.

Dropping the bags in the hidden compartment, I drove across town to the old Columbian restaurant. After a quick pat-down, I was escorted to the booth where Javier sat alone.

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