Page 131 of Tainted

“Can’t or won’t?”

“Is there a difference?”

“We spent too much on your education for you to ask that question.”

“I know I could tell her, but then what?”

“That’s for you and yourgirlfriendto decide, but trying to control the outcome by not telling her isn’t working either.”

I loved to hate talking to Mom sometimes. It was easy to do, and she always gave an unbiased opinion, but you paid for it because she never cut corners.

“Nah, it’s not.”

“You miss her, so why won’t you just call?”

“That doesn’t sound like Pop talking,” I stated through a narrowed gaze.

“He was stubborn like you early in our relationship. Not because he didn’t care. Eric wanted to be the best at everything, but he had to learn that doing something was better than being perfect. Showing up is half the battle, Kenyon.”

“I’m hungry. What did you bring?” I asked, changing the subject.

Zara wanted answers I wasn’t ready to give, so showing up seemed like punishing us both.

“Lasagna.”

“My favorite,” I hopped down and wrapped her in my arms. “Thanks, Mama.”

“You’re welcome. Leonne is coming into town, so make sure you’re at dinner. Bring your girlfriend, too.”

A flash of humor spread across my face at her, returning to the topic.

25

Zara

We pulled up to Digg’s garage, and I could hear the low rumble of engines and the pulse of music vibrating through the air. The whole place was lit, with neon lights bouncing off the metal walls.

I slid out of the passenger seat while Jewel walked ahead, owning the scene like always. Brandy kept close to my side, her eyes scanning the crowd.

“Digg went all out this time,” Jewel muttered, glancing back at us as we stepped further into the chaos.

“I wonder why. His parties aren’t ever this packed,” Brandy added, making me somewhat nervous.

“And he brought out the good shit!” Jewel boasted, holding up the liquor bottle. “Grab a cup. Both of you bitches need shots.”

Jewel poured one for each of us, toasting to friendship and a memorable night out. The DJ had the garage rocking while different clubs showed off their tricked-out cars. I’d even stopped watching my phone, waiting for it to ring. Then Kenyon stepped out of his car, ignoring Nolan’s words while Shaudi took in the scene.

“Don’t sweat that nigga,” Jewel leaned over offering advice.

“I’m cool,” I lied, watching Kenyon scan the crowd. Then he spotted me, and his jaw tightened. Even from across the garage, I could feel his mood change.

Ignoring him, I returned to dancing, hoping the night wouldn’t turn bad. But with Kenyon in the mix, nothing was ever that simple. Nolan and Shaudi rounded out their welcome tour, greeting us with smiles and casual vibes, but Kenyon stayed back.

Nolan switched his cup to the opposite hand and hugged me, “Wassup Super Nova.”

“Hey, Nolan.”

“Damn, is that the only face you see? I thought we were cool,” Shaudi complained with his arms outstretched.

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